It is your chance to win! View the Contests page on Great Bend Post to see what contests/giveaways are currently being promoted. View the page by clicking <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/contests">HERE</a>!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596659243713.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It is your chance to win! View the Contests page on Great Bend Post to see what contests/giveaways are currently being promoted. View the page by clicking <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/contests">HERE</a>!

Eagle Radio CONTESTS

Communities in the beginning stages of creating more walk- and bike-friendly towns can greatly benefit from attending the Walk Bike Roll online webinar on April 24.

Titled “Tell Your Story! How to Leverage Storytelling to Build Project Support and Momentum,” the webinar is hosted by the Kansas Department of Transportation. Participants can learn to celebrate and share accomplishments to inspire decision makers, the public and other communities.

To attend the one-hour webinar, which starts at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, register at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbHAuY29uc3RhbnRjb250YWN0cGFnZXMuY29tL2V2L3JlZy82czR3bmZkP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwNzI0NDEifQ.RDpCQICulGe4s8X_THx1OuQH3idW6pY8qy5Db4Dd7dY/s/1410648818/br/240379434142-l" target="_blank">https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/6s4wnfd</a>.&nbsp;

“Kansas communities have done a great job prioritizing and constructing new pedestrian and bicycle facilities,” said Jenny Kramer, Active Transportation Manager at KDOT. “However, when it comes time to brag about our accomplishments, we don’t do as well.”

Learning about other successful alternate transportation projects helps build support and can:

Catherine Girves of Toole Design will share storytelling tips based on years of experience working with elected officials and citizens to build project support.&nbsp;She will cover important steps in the process such as how to identify an audience, discover available local and state funds, determine what the story is expected to accomplish and more.

The KDOT Active Transportation Program launched the Walk Bike Roll Kansas webinar series at an in-person Summit in September 2023. It is part of the Kansas Active Transportation Plan, which was published in February 2023. Webinars will continue throughout 2024.

Communities in the beginning stages of creating more walk- and bike-friendly towns can greatly benefit from attending the Walk Bike Roll online webinar on April 24.Titled “Tell Your Story! How to Leverage Storytelling to Build Project Support and Momentum,” the webinar is hosted by the Kansas Department of Transportation. Participants can learn to celebrate and share accomplishments to inspire decision makers, the public and other communities.To attend the one-hour webinar, which starts at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, register at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbHAuY29uc3RhbnRjb250YWN0cGFnZXMuY29tL2V2L3JlZy82czR3bmZkP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwNzI0NDEifQ.RDpCQICulGe4s8X_THx1OuQH3idW6pY8qy5Db4Dd7dY/s/1410648818/br/240379434142-l" target="_blank">https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/6s4wnfd</a>.&nbsp;“Kansas communities have done a great job prioritizing and constructing new pedestrian and bicycle facilities,” said Jenny Kramer, Active Transportation Manager at KDOT. “However, when it comes time to brag about our accomplishments, we don’t do as well.”Learning about other successful alternate transportation projects helps build support and can:<ul>
 <li>Build enthusiasm for new projects locally and across the state.</li><li>Discover champions and opportunities to raise project funds.</li><li>Invite equity to be a focus.</li><li>Create a culture that values walking, biking and rolling across Kansas.</li>
 </ul>Catherine Girves of Toole Design will share storytelling tips based on years of experience working with elected officials and citizens to build project support.&nbsp;She will cover important steps in the process such as how to identify an audience, discover available local and state funds, determine what the story is expected to accomplish and more.The KDOT Active Transportation Program launched the Walk Bike Roll Kansas webinar series at an in-person Summit in September 2023. It is part of the Kansas Active Transportation Plan, which was published in February 2023. Webinars will continue throughout 2024.

Communities can learn to create walk & bike-friendly towns

Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Dr. Perez-Tamayo with the Central Care Cancer Center. This episode will air Tuesday, April 16 at 7 p.m. and will focus on prostate / breast cancer.

Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel: http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS.

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org.

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to doctors@shptv.org. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712847360748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Dr. Perez-Tamayo with the Central Care Cancer Center. This episode will air Tuesday, April 16 at 7 p.m. and will focus on prostate / breast cancer.Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel: http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS.A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org.To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to doctors@shptv.org. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Prostate and breast cancer is next topic on Doctors on Call

PAWNEE COUNTY—A Great Bend man arrested after a police chase in Pawnee County made his first court appearance Friday.

&nbsp;Joshua R. Castaneda, 37 of Great Bend, was charged with Possession of 264 Grams of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Felony Fleeing and Elude - Reckless Driving;&nbsp; Felony Fleeing and Elude – Resulting in an Accident; Interference with Law Enforcement – Resisting Arrest for a Felony; Criminal Damage to Property of at least $1,000, but less than $25,000; and Driving under the Influence of Drugs, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett..

Castaneda was arrested by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department on the night of April 9, following a chase which ended on the property of a local feed yard. The chase began after a routine traffic stop. The suspect abandoned his vehicle after crashing into the back of a patrol vehicle but was quickly apprehended. One deputy involved in the accident was admitted to an area hospital for observation but was later released.

Castaneda is scheduled for a Preliminary Hearing on April 25, 2024. He remains in custody with bond set at $90,000, according to McNett.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713008419744.png" alt="Castaneda-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Castaneda-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A Great Bend man arrested after a police chase in Pawnee County made his first court appearance Friday.&nbsp;Joshua R. Castaneda, 37 of Great Bend, was charged with Possession of 264 Grams of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Felony Fleeing and Elude - Reckless Driving;&nbsp; Felony Fleeing and Elude – Resulting in an Accident; Interference with Law Enforcement – Resisting Arrest for a Felony; Criminal Damage to Property of at least $1,000, but less than $25,000; and Driving under the Influence of Drugs, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett..Castaneda was arrested by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department on the night of April 9, following a chase which ended on the property of a local feed yard. The chase began after a routine traffic stop. The suspect abandoned his vehicle after crashing into the back of a patrol vehicle but was quickly apprehended. One deputy involved in the accident was admitted to an area hospital for observation but was later released.Castaneda is scheduled for a Preliminary Hearing on April 25, 2024. He remains in custody with bond set at $90,000, according to McNett.

Great Bend man crashed into patrol vehicle during chase

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e4f500d4-f60d-4ae9-abd7-70c9824730ce">Barton Co. Fire District responds to lawn mower fire</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7c14db7b-905b-44a9-a223-d4d4f210e981">Big Christmas break coming for USD 428 students over next two years</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/96682c82-471f-4111-8138-2c9a7359454f">Barton Commission recognizes national champion Cougar basketball team</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712957374295.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission recognized the national champion Cougar basketball team with a proclamation during Tuesday's meeting. (photo from Shawn Hutchinson)" />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission recognized the national champion Cougar basketball team with a proclamation during Tuesday's meeting. (photo from Shawn Hutchinson)</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/rlx51r5r/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e4f500d4-f60d-4ae9-abd7-70c9824730ce">Barton Co. Fire District responds to lawn mower fire</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7c14db7b-905b-44a9-a223-d4d4f210e981">Big Christmas break coming for USD 428 students over next two years</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/96682c82-471f-4111-8138-2c9a7359454f">Barton Commission recognizes national champion Cougar basketball team</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

The Kansas Music Hall of Fame&nbsp;(KSMHOF) 2024 inductees will be honored at a ceremony and concert at Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts Street, in Lawrence, KS on Saturday, April 20.&nbsp;The 2024 KSMHOF Class Inductees include:&nbsp;Karrin&nbsp;Allyson, Ric Averill, Angela Hagenbach, Son Venezuela, The Scamps, Rick Faris, Philip Anschutz, Anthony Jermaine White (aka J. White Did It), and The Cotillion Ballroom (Ad Astra Award Recipient).

Karrin&nbsp;Allyson&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated American jazz vocalist,&nbsp;originally from Great Bend.&nbsp;In 1990, she moved to Kansas City where her jazz career took off. Of the 12 studio albums she recorded for the Concord Jazz label in Kansas City, five have received Grammy nominations for Best Jazz Vocal Album, including "Ballads: Remembering John Coltrane."

Ric Averill&nbsp;is the Emeritus Artistic Director of Performing Arts at the Lawrence Arts Center. Averill is a director, playwright, screenwriter, composer, director, conductor, actor and educator. Averill composed a youth opera based on "The Emperor’s New Clothes" for The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.&nbsp;In addition to composing children’s songs, operas and ballets, Ric is often found as a professional performer and/or music director.&nbsp;

Angela Hagenbach&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated jazz singer/songwriter from Kansas City and has been a staple in the Kansas City scene for nearly three decades. A former trombonist, Hagenbach was twice chosen to represent the United States as a Jazz Ambassador to the world under the auspices of the United States Information Agency and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Son Venezuela&nbsp;is a Lawrence-based Latin band who have performed in the Latin scene for 30 years. Son Venezuela's induction is historic as it marks the first induction of a Latin artist or group into the KSMHoF.

Originally from Parsons, R&amp;B vocal group&nbsp;The Scamps (aka The Five Scamps)&nbsp;were a fixture in Kansas City nightclubs in the 1940's &amp; 50's, eventually signing with Columbia Records. The Scamps live performance spanned six decades, and were rewarded in 2002 by Kansas City officials who renamed a section of 8th Street as "Scamps Alley" in their honor.&nbsp;

Rick Faris&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated Bluegrass artist, songwriter and musician from Topeka. After spending 11 years with the acoustic bluegrass group Special Consensus, Faris has enjoyed success as a solo artist, with multiple nominations from the International Bluegrass Music Association, including winning the "Best New Artist" award in 2022. Faris is also an in-demand luthier, specializing in building handmade guitars since 2000 with Rick Faris Guitar Co.

Philip Anschutz&nbsp;(Bob Hapgood Award Recipient)&nbsp;is a businessman and philanthropist from Russell, and is the founder and owner of AEG Live (Anschutz Entertainment Group), one of the largest presenters of live music and entertainments in the U.S., owning California music and arts festival Coachella.&nbsp;

Jermaine White (aka "J. White Did It") (Bill Lee Award Recipient)&nbsp;is Grammy Award-winning producer from Leavenworth, responsible for two Diamond-selling singles (Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow" and "I Like It"). White has produced songs for artists Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, Gucci Mane and 21 Savage, whose song "a lot" (along with Megan's "Savage" remix with Beyonce') earned him a Grammy win for Best Rap Song.

Famed Wichita concert hall&nbsp;The Cotillion (The Cotillion Ballroom) (Ad Astra Award Recipient)&nbsp;has been providing entertainment since 1960. Nicknamed "The Round Mound of Sound", the Cotillion has hosted shows from such notable artists as Duke Ellington, The Everly Brothers, James Brown, Etta James, Willie Nelson, and B.B. King, among many others.

There will be a live induction ceremony held on Saturday, April 20th at Liberty Hall at 7pm in Lawrence. Tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.libertyhall.net/live-events/upcoming-events/kansas-music-2023" target="_blank">https://www.libertyhall.net/live-events/upcoming-events/kansas-music-2023</a>. A televised version of the ceremony will air in early July.

The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of Fame&nbsp;was established in August 2004. The mission of the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of Fame is to honor the&nbsp;music, musicians, and related institutions that have made a significant contribution to&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;and the Greater&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City area. Our purpose is to recognize those of the past, and present and encourage those of the future.&nbsp;For more information on the Kansas Music Hall of Fame, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://ksmhof.org/" target="_blank">ksmhof.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712847636471.jpeg" alt="photo from <a href="https://karrin.com/home/">karrin.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>photo from <a href="https://karrin.com/home/">karrin.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Music Hall of Fame&nbsp;(KSMHOF) 2024 inductees will be honored at a ceremony and concert at Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts Street, in Lawrence, KS on Saturday, April 20.&nbsp;The 2024 KSMHOF Class Inductees include:&nbsp;Karrin&nbsp;Allyson, Ric Averill, Angela Hagenbach, Son Venezuela, The Scamps, Rick Faris, Philip Anschutz, Anthony Jermaine White (aka J. White Did It), and The Cotillion Ballroom (Ad Astra Award Recipient).Karrin&nbsp;Allyson&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated American jazz vocalist,&nbsp;originally from Great Bend.&nbsp;In 1990, she moved to Kansas City where her jazz career took off. Of the 12 studio albums she recorded for the Concord Jazz label in Kansas City, five have received Grammy nominations for Best Jazz Vocal Album, including "Ballads: Remembering John Coltrane."Ric Averill&nbsp;is the Emeritus Artistic Director of Performing Arts at the Lawrence Arts Center. Averill is a director, playwright, screenwriter, composer, director, conductor, actor and educator. Averill composed a youth opera based on "The Emperor’s New Clothes" for The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.&nbsp;In addition to composing children’s songs, operas and ballets, Ric is often found as a professional performer and/or music director.&nbsp;Angela Hagenbach&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated jazz singer/songwriter from Kansas City and has been a staple in the Kansas City scene for nearly three decades. A former trombonist, Hagenbach was twice chosen to represent the United States as a Jazz Ambassador to the world under the auspices of the United States Information Agency and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.Son Venezuela&nbsp;is a Lawrence-based Latin band who have performed in the Latin scene for 30 years. Son Venezuela's induction is historic as it marks the first induction of a Latin artist or group into the KSMHoF.Originally from Parsons, R&amp;B vocal group&nbsp;The Scamps (aka The Five Scamps)&nbsp;were a fixture in Kansas City nightclubs in the 1940's &amp; 50's, eventually signing with Columbia Records. The Scamps live performance spanned six decades, and were rewarded in 2002 by Kansas City officials who renamed a section of 8th Street as "Scamps Alley" in their honor.&nbsp;Rick Faris&nbsp;is a Grammy-nominated Bluegrass artist, songwriter and musician from Topeka. After spending 11 years with the acoustic bluegrass group Special Consensus, Faris has enjoyed success as a solo artist, with multiple nominations from the International Bluegrass Music Association, including winning the "Best New Artist" award in 2022. Faris is also an in-demand luthier, specializing in building handmade guitars since 2000 with Rick Faris Guitar Co.Philip Anschutz&nbsp;(Bob Hapgood Award Recipient)&nbsp;is a businessman and philanthropist from Russell, and is the founder and owner of AEG Live (Anschutz Entertainment Group), one of the largest presenters of live music and entertainments in the U.S., owning California music and arts festival Coachella.&nbsp;Jermaine White (aka "J. White Did It") (Bill Lee Award Recipient)&nbsp;is Grammy Award-winning producer from Leavenworth, responsible for two Diamond-selling singles (Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow" and "I Like It"). White has produced songs for artists Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, Gucci Mane and 21 Savage, whose song "a lot" (along with Megan's "Savage" remix with Beyonce') earned him a Grammy win for Best Rap Song.Famed Wichita concert hall&nbsp;The Cotillion (The Cotillion Ballroom) (Ad Astra Award Recipient)&nbsp;has been providing entertainment since 1960. Nicknamed "The Round Mound of Sound", the Cotillion has hosted shows from such notable artists as Duke Ellington, The Everly Brothers, James Brown, Etta James, Willie Nelson, and B.B. King, among many others.There will be a live induction ceremony held on Saturday, April 20th at Liberty Hall at 7pm in Lawrence. Tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.libertyhall.net/live-events/upcoming-events/kansas-music-2023" target="_blank">https://www.libertyhall.net/live-events/upcoming-events/kansas-music-2023</a>. A televised version of the ceremony will air in early July.The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of Fame&nbsp;was established in August 2004. The mission of the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of Fame is to honor the&nbsp;music, musicians, and related institutions that have made a significant contribution to&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;and the Greater&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City area. Our purpose is to recognize those of the past, and present and encourage those of the future.&nbsp;For more information on the Kansas Music Hall of Fame, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://ksmhof.org/" target="_blank">ksmhof.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend native Allyson inducted into Kansas Music Hall of Fame

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712857355515.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712857323642.jpeg" alt="" />
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American Pickers TV show to film in Kansas

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

Celebrating 52 years of exemplary service, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted R &amp; R Roofing with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 4, marking a milestone in the company's history. Established in 1972 by Ray Riggs, R &amp; R Roofing has continued to flourish under the guidance of Danny and Bryan Riggs, who assumed leadership roles in the family business six years ago following Ray Riggs' passing.

Reflecting on the journey of R &amp; R Roofing, Danny Riggs, co-owner, remarked, "Our success is rooted in our dedication to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service to every client." 

As a locally owned and family-operated business, R &amp; R Roofing takes pride in its roots and its commitment to serving the community. With strategically located offices in Great Bend and Sterling, the company ensures response times and service delivery to clients across the region.

Throughout its five-decade journey, R &amp; R Roofing has expanded its services to encompass comprehensive guttering solutions for both commercial and residential properties. Additionally, the company offers residential siding services, painting, window replacement, and door replacement, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive exterior improvement solutions.

Commemorating this milestone with a Customer Appreciation Day immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, R &amp; R Roofing demonstrated its gratitude to the community with a free lunch, giveaways, and gift certificate drawings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712860709437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...Celebrating 52 years of exemplary service, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted R &amp; R Roofing with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 4, marking a milestone in the company's history. Established in 1972 by Ray Riggs, R &amp; R Roofing has continued to flourish under the guidance of Danny and Bryan Riggs, who assumed leadership roles in the family business six years ago following Ray Riggs' passing.Reflecting on the journey of R &amp; R Roofing, Danny Riggs, co-owner, remarked, "Our success is rooted in our dedication to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service to every client." As a locally owned and family-operated business, R &amp; R Roofing takes pride in its roots and its commitment to serving the community. With strategically located offices in Great Bend and Sterling, the company ensures response times and service delivery to clients across the region.Throughout its five-decade journey, R &amp; R Roofing has expanded its services to encompass comprehensive guttering solutions for both commercial and residential properties. Additionally, the company offers residential siding services, painting, window replacement, and door replacement, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive exterior improvement solutions.Commemorating this milestone with a Customer Appreciation Day immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, R &amp; R Roofing demonstrated its gratitude to the community with a free lunch, giveaways, and gift certificate drawings.

R & R Roofing celebrates 52 years of service in Great Bend

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The Barton County Commission has supported several proclamations promoting various causes this month. At Tuesday's meeting, the board heard from Amy Ferguson, coordinator at Rise Up Central Kansas, and various other representatives for their proclamation to recognize April 24 as Drug Endangered Children Awareness Day.

"With the current fentanyl crisis in the nation, rural Kansas, Barton County, is no exception," Ferguson said. "We do see overdose deaths in Barton County. We have overdoses in the youth, also. This is a big job and it takes all sectors to get involved."

Each of the members from the various groups read part of the proclamation. Jillian Doyle, family support specialist with Kansas Children Service League, which serves 51 families, most of whom are drug-endangered, provided the statistics in her piece.

"140,860 children live in environments where parents or caregivers have a substance use disorder," she said, "and an estimated 5,155 Kansas infants born exposed to substance abuse yearly."

Commission Chair Barb Esfeld thanked the group for resilience in the battle. "I just want to thank you guys for never giving up," she said. "It gets frustrating, and sometimes you feel like the fight is almost too much. So thank you guys for hanging in there, keeping going, and not giving up."

The National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children helped create the awareness day, which is set each year for the fourth Wednesday in April.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712844978367.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Commission has supported several proclamations promoting various causes this month. At Tuesday's meeting, the board heard from Amy Ferguson, coordinator at Rise Up Central Kansas, and various other representatives for their proclamation to recognize April 24 as Drug Endangered Children Awareness Day."With the current fentanyl crisis in the nation, rural Kansas, Barton County, is no exception," Ferguson said. "We do see overdose deaths in Barton County. We have overdoses in the youth, also. This is a big job and it takes all sectors to get involved."Each of the members from the various groups read part of the proclamation. Jillian Doyle, family support specialist with Kansas Children Service League, which serves 51 families, most of whom are drug-endangered, provided the statistics in her piece."140,860 children live in environments where parents or caregivers have a substance use disorder," she said, "and an estimated 5,155 Kansas infants born exposed to substance abuse yearly."Commission Chair Barb Esfeld thanked the group for resilience in the battle. "I just want to thank you guys for never giving up," she said. "It gets frustrating, and sometimes you feel like the fight is almost too much. So thank you guys for hanging in there, keeping going, and not giving up."The National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children helped create the awareness day, which is set each year for the fourth Wednesday in April.

Barton Co. marks April 24 as Drug Endangered Children Awareness Day

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe..

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cbi3gCJDv0Q?si=e66NsstphQYH_QC0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe..

🎤Forward Ever: High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe

Great Bend High School would like to inform the community about an anticipated street closure as crews install the new "chiller" in the Panther Athletic Center (PAC).

🚧 Dates: Monday, April 15 through possibly Friday, April 19 🚧 Odell Street will be closed from 19th-20th, west side of the PAC

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712954586829.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend High School would like to inform the community about an anticipated street closure as crews install the new "chiller" in the Panther Athletic Center (PAC).🚧 Dates: Monday, April 15 through possibly Friday, April 19 🚧 Odell Street will be closed from 19th-20th, west side of the PAC

Street closure near Great Bend High School next week

For the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.

The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.

What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; There were no campus-sponsored, eclipse-watching events, except a small performance by some music students on another part of campus. Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;

These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;

This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698326876404.png" alt="written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University</figcaption>
 </figure>For the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; There were no campus-sponsored, eclipse-watching events, except a small performance by some music students on another part of campus. Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Eclipse watch parties show how campus has changed

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 10, 2024.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 10, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley" 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=8vyg2-15db32f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Public Works Director Cauley

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation
Commission, is becoming one of the more popular spring events in the area. The
event uses the classic egg hunt, but brings flashlights into the mix with the
hunt taking place at night. 

Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan Hammeke
said 364 children, between the ages of three and 12, searched for thousands of
eggs at the Great Bend Sports Complex.


"We divide the four fields for age groups," said Hammeke. "The baseball field is the biggest and is used by the 9-12 year olds. All the eggs for the bigger kids were black to make it harder to find."

Hammeke said there was more than 10,000 eggs throughout the four fields for all
of the age groups. In addition to the children, an estimated 564 spectators
were there for the event.

"It wasn't as dark as the year before, mainly because Easter was so early this year," said Hammeke. "We knew there was a chance of it being so cold, so we went a little before."


New this year, a fireworks show was provided following the egg hunt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763926956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation
Commission, is becoming one of the more popular spring events in the area. The
event uses the classic egg hunt, but brings flashlights into the mix with the
hunt taking place at night. Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan Hammeke
said 364 children, between the ages of three and 12, searched for thousands of
eggs at the Great Bend Sports Complex.
"We divide the four fields for age groups," said Hammeke. "The baseball field is the biggest and is used by the 9-12 year olds. All the eggs for the bigger kids were black to make it harder to find."Hammeke said there was more than 10,000 eggs throughout the four fields for all
of the age groups. In addition to the children, an estimated 564 spectators
were there for the event."It wasn't as dark as the year before, mainly because Easter was so early this year," said Hammeke. "We knew there was a chance of it being so cold, so we went a little before."
New this year, a fireworks show was provided following the egg hunt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Numbers are growing for Great Bend Rec’s flashlight egg hunt

The Barton County Courthouse HVAC Renovation Project completion date continues to draw nearer, but not everything in the 106-year-old building has been updated. At Tuesday's county commission, IT Director Dereck Hollingshead asked for approval to replace access panels to secure rooms typically used by court and county attorney staff.

"Since July 2018, Barton County has used access-controlled doors throughout a lot of our county facilities," he said. "Judge Carey Hipp has requested that we secure seven of their doors on the third and fourth floor from punch pads to card access."

The old pads required a combination of numbers and the doors could be opened by anyone who knew the sequence of numbers, including former employees or anyone who saw the code being entered. The new pads will limit access and increase the county's ability to secure certain rooms. The county received two bids on the project and accepted the local and low bid from Nex-Tech for $6,230.38.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619186644580.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Courthouse HVAC Renovation Project completion date continues to draw nearer, but not everything in the 106-year-old building has been updated. At Tuesday's county commission, IT Director Dereck Hollingshead asked for approval to replace access panels to secure rooms typically used by court and county attorney staff."Since July 2018, Barton County has used access-controlled doors throughout a lot of our county facilities," he said. "Judge Carey Hipp has requested that we secure seven of their doors on the third and fourth floor from punch pads to card access."The old pads required a combination of numbers and the doors could be opened by anyone who knew the sequence of numbers, including former employees or anyone who saw the code being entered. The new pads will limit access and increase the county's ability to secure certain rooms. The county received two bids on the project and accepted the local and low bid from Nex-Tech for $6,230.38.

Small security upgrade approved for top floors of Barton courthouse

In the early morning hours of Friday, April 12 at about 2:30 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a 2013 Chevrolet Impala near US 281 Highway and NE 50th Road. The vehicle was stopped for multiple equipment violations as well as traffic infractions. 

The deputy contacted the driver, identified as Triston Pitts, age 28 of Genesee, KS. The officers became suspicious of possible drug activity and the Sheriff’s Office K9 Menta was called to the scene. The K9 indicated&nbsp; the presence of controlled substances in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia as well as a set of brass knuckles.

Pitts was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Amanda Enriquez, age 30 of Great Bend, was also placed under arrest.

Pitts was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia as well as possession of an unlawful weapon. Enriquez was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712939047782.jpeg" alt="Triston Pitts" />
 <figcaption>Triston Pitts</figcaption>
 </figure>In the early morning hours of Friday, April 12 at about 2:30 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a 2013 Chevrolet Impala near US 281 Highway and NE 50th Road. The vehicle was stopped for multiple equipment violations as well as traffic infractions. The deputy contacted the driver, identified as Triston Pitts, age 28 of Genesee, KS. The officers became suspicious of possible drug activity and the Sheriff’s Office K9 Menta was called to the scene. The K9 indicated&nbsp; the presence of controlled substances in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia as well as a set of brass knuckles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712939067948.jpeg" alt="Amanda Enriquez" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Enriquez</figcaption>
 </figure>Pitts was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Amanda Enriquez, age 30 of Great Bend, was also placed under arrest.Pitts was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia as well as possession of an unlawful weapon. Enriquez was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

Drug arrests made near US 281 Highway in Barton County

Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Courtney Liebl

Barton Community College has developed a new help webpage for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assist students and parents in navigating the changes that came with the FAFSA Simplification for 2024-2025.

The webpage offers students and parents a place to find essential resources, FAQs, and tools to streamline the financial aid application process.

Director of Financial Aid Myrna Perkins said it is important that we make the process as accessible and transparent as possible.

"We recognize that the financial aid process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants," she said. “We are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the financial aid process successfully.”

Perkins encourages all current and prospective students and their parents to visit the new resource, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa">bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712844038586.jpeg" alt="A Barton financial aid officer answers a student’s questions about the FAFSA. The new financial aid help page is available for students and parents to help them through the new FAFSA Simplification." />
 <figcaption>A Barton financial aid officer answers a student’s questions about the FAFSA. The new financial aid help page is available for students and parents to help them through the new FAFSA Simplification.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Courtney LieblBarton Community College has developed a new help webpage for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assist students and parents in navigating the changes that came with the FAFSA Simplification for 2024-2025.The webpage offers students and parents a place to find essential resources, FAQs, and tools to streamline the financial aid application process.Director of Financial Aid Myrna Perkins said it is important that we make the process as accessible and transparent as possible."We recognize that the financial aid process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants," she said. “We are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the financial aid process successfully.”Perkins encourages all current and prospective students and their parents to visit the new resource, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa">bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa</a>.

Barton Community College launches financial aid help page

Once upon a time, those in need of emergency assistance had to remember a seven-digit phone number to call for help. In February 1968, the first 911 call was made by a state politician in Alabama. The number became a consolidated public safety answering point in Barton County in 1989. Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp was at Tuesday's county commission meeting to proclaim April 14-20 as National Public Safety Communications Officer Week.

"The extreme multitasking, constant change in pace, high stress, rotating shifts, nights, holidays, and weekends is not for everyone," she said. "For some dispatchers, the things we hear can take a toll on a person's mental health: not knowing if the person you gave CPR survived; not knowing if the conversation you had with somebody in a mental crisis made enough impact to convince them to get the help they need. 911 is not for everybody, but over the last year, 911 staff in Barton County have had some calls that have reminded us why we love this profession and to keep us motivated and dedicated to our job."

Popp told commissioners how one dispatcher, just the day before, talked a suicidal caller through the steps to seek help for an alcohol-related intervention. One dispatcher, in the space of 60 days, helped two callers administer CPR and another deliver a baby.

"Both CPR calls resulted in lives being saved," Popp said. "The spouse of one of those CPR saves has contacted me and expressed her gratitude for the calm demeanor, professionalism, and guidance through the CPR that she believes saved her loved one."

911 services have greatly changed since the original service began in the 1960s. In Barton County, Rapid Deploy technology helps dispatchers pinpoint the location of callers, and new video and text-to-911 options add ways for callers to seek help. Beyond the many emergency calls dispatchers handle, they also take administrative calls, work with road crews, electrical crews, and tow-truck companies. They even answered questions about COVID-19 during the pandemic.

"The commitment, sacrifice, and dedication that has been shown by these 911 employees does not go unnoticed," said Popp. "It's very appreciated and makes me very proud. Oftentimes, this is a thankless job, and I want to say thank you to my staff. I appreciate their dedication and the personal sacrifices they've made all these years. I'm proud to have them as part of my team in this amazing profession."

Eight of the current 14 positions at Barton County Communications are occupied by dispatchers with 3-29 years of experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656610452503.jpeg" alt="Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOnce upon a time, those in need of emergency assistance had to remember a seven-digit phone number to call for help. In February 1968, the first 911 call was made by a state politician in Alabama. The number became a consolidated public safety answering point in Barton County in 1989. Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp was at Tuesday's county commission meeting to proclaim April 14-20 as National Public Safety Communications Officer Week."The extreme multitasking, constant change in pace, high stress, rotating shifts, nights, holidays, and weekends is not for everyone," she said. "For some dispatchers, the things we hear can take a toll on a person's mental health: not knowing if the person you gave CPR survived; not knowing if the conversation you had with somebody in a mental crisis made enough impact to convince them to get the help they need. 911 is not for everybody, but over the last year, 911 staff in Barton County have had some calls that have reminded us why we love this profession and to keep us motivated and dedicated to our job."Popp told commissioners how one dispatcher, just the day before, talked a suicidal caller through the steps to seek help for an alcohol-related intervention. One dispatcher, in the space of 60 days, helped two callers administer CPR and another deliver a baby."Both CPR calls resulted in lives being saved," Popp said. "The spouse of one of those CPR saves has contacted me and expressed her gratitude for the calm demeanor, professionalism, and guidance through the CPR that she believes saved her loved one."911 services have greatly changed since the original service began in the 1960s. In Barton County, Rapid Deploy technology helps dispatchers pinpoint the location of callers, and new video and text-to-911 options add ways for callers to seek help. Beyond the many emergency calls dispatchers handle, they also take administrative calls, work with road crews, electrical crews, and tow-truck companies. They even answered questions about COVID-19 during the pandemic."The commitment, sacrifice, and dedication that has been shown by these 911 employees does not go unnoticed," said Popp. "It's very appreciated and makes me very proud. Oftentimes, this is a thankless job, and I want to say thank you to my staff. I appreciate their dedication and the personal sacrifices they've made all these years. I'm proud to have them as part of my team in this amazing profession."Eight of the current 14 positions at Barton County Communications are occupied by dispatchers with 3-29 years of experience.

The help you never see: Barton Co. recognizes 911 dispatchers

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/11)

At 6:38 a.m. an accident was reported at SE 50 Road &amp; SE
50 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 5:27 p.m. a theft was reported at 697 W. K-4 Highway in
Olmitz.

At 11:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 100 block of S.
Elm Street in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/11)

At 2:07 a.m. a report to remove a subject was made at 1033
Adams Street. The subject lives there.

At 8:21 a.m. an accident was reported at 1709 Main Street.

At 10:21 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4107 10th
Street.

At 10:27 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.

At 3:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 5520 10th
Street.

At 3:54 p.m. a fire was reported at 700 Frey Street. The
subjects were cutting on an old tractor.

At 9:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3rd
&amp; Firethorn.

At 10:18 p.m. a fire was reported at Harrison &amp; Lakin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/11)Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:38 a.m. an accident was reported at SE 50 Road &amp; SE
50 Avenue in Ellinwood.TheftAt 5:27 p.m. a theft was reported at 697 W. K-4 Highway in
Olmitz.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 100 block of S.
Elm Street in Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/11)Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 2:07 a.m. a report to remove a subject was made at 1033
Adams Street. The subject lives there.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:21 a.m. an accident was reported at 1709 Main Street.Back PainAt 10:21 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4107 10th
Street.Sick PersonAt 10:27 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 5520 10th
Street.Structure FireAt 3:54 p.m. a fire was reported at 700 Frey Street. The
subjects were cutting on an old tractor.Noise ComplaintAt 9:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3rd
&amp; Firethorn.FireAt 10:18 p.m. a fire was reported at Harrison &amp; Lakin.

Cop Shop (4/11)

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

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

BOOKED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kenneth Patterson on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $25,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Charles Bowers, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrants for Theft, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/11BOOKED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Chad Gibson on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kenneth Patterson on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $25,000 C/S.RELEASED: Charles Bowers, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrants for Theft, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/11)

Progress continues on the Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall at the
Great Bend Activity Center. The installation is the start of a trio of playground
installations that will be occurring in Great Bend. 

Digging holes to secure the
equipment, the Hellas Construction crew found old building footings from the
previous Morrison Elementary School.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/474cb863-edc5-4f64-8737-0b52af31dea9">RELATED STORY: Ninja Course, rock wall coming to Great Bend playground</a>

Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris
Umphres said Hellas will be moving quickly to finish the Ninja Course and the
playground additions at the Sports Complex and Veterans Memorial Park.


"When Hellas has a standstill, the playground equipment came for the Sports Complex and Vets," said Umphres. "This week and next, they'll be out there putting that stuff together. The city has already done the post holes at the Sports Complex. They can just bounce over there and finish that while they're here."

Between the Ninja Course, rock wall and turf, the $471,000 MyBackyard Playgound
project at the Activity Center is expected to be finished before the summer.


<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d8f9d447-1417-4be3-87bf-c82c79f7a431">A 36' x 29' playground feature</a>&nbsp;will also be installed at the Sports
Complex for children ages 5 - 12.

A 20' x 20' area next to the
softball fields at Veterans Park will also receive <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5db738f0-ac36-4ca2-bc6f-49106cc9002b">playground equipment</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776590574.jpeg" alt="Installation continues for the Ninja Course at the Activity Center on 18th Street in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Installation continues for the Ninja Course at the Activity Center on 18th Street in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostProgress continues on the Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall at the
Great Bend Activity Center. The installation is the start of a trio of playground
installations that will be occurring in Great Bend. Digging holes to secure the
equipment, the Hellas Construction crew found old building footings from the
previous Morrison Elementary School.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/474cb863-edc5-4f64-8737-0b52af31dea9">RELATED STORY: Ninja Course, rock wall coming to Great Bend playground</a>Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris
Umphres said Hellas will be moving quickly to finish the Ninja Course and the
playground additions at the Sports Complex and Veterans Memorial Park.
"When Hellas has a standstill, the playground equipment came for the Sports Complex and Vets," said Umphres. "This week and next, they'll be out there putting that stuff together. The city has already done the post holes at the Sports Complex. They can just bounce over there and finish that while they're here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776646971.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Between the Ninja Course, rock wall and turf, the $471,000 MyBackyard Playgound
project at the Activity Center is expected to be finished before the summer.
<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d8f9d447-1417-4be3-87bf-c82c79f7a431">A 36' x 29' playground feature</a>&nbsp;will also be installed at the Sports
Complex for children ages 5 - 12.A 20' x 20' area next to the
softball fields at Veterans Park will also receive <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5db738f0-ac36-4ca2-bc6f-49106cc9002b">playground equipment</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776664899.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Trio of playground installations underway in Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast 11 to 16 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 51. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 58.

Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.

Monday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46. Breezy.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast 11 to 16 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 51. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Saturday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 58.Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.Monday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46. Breezy.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Blood drive in Larned on Friday

"We don't need more taxes in Barton County, we need more taxpayers in Barton County." Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson coined the phrase and has tried making that true for the county. Hutchinson spoke Tuesday morning before the board of commissioners approved a pair of letters in support of two downtown development projects in Great Bend.

"Our downtowns are a barometer to gauge our community's mental health and emotional well-being," he said. "The downtowns can also be a tool that can help improve our community's mental and emotional health. This requires continued investment and partnerships."

The commission first approved a letter of support regarding the Lofts at the Zarah Project. Original plans included converting the building at 1917 Lakin Ave. in Great Bend to 24 apartments. The decision to renovate the fourth floor and add four more apartments made the project eligible for $128,000 in additional assistance through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. The commission also approved a letter of support for the High Noon Loft Grant for the former JC Penney building at 1500 Kansas Ave., which the county leased to house operations during the courthouse HVAC renovation project.

"If someone would say to me, put your money where your mouth is, I would say Barton County has put their money where their mouth is," Hutchinson said. "We have lived with less-than-desirable conditions at the JC Penney building, and we've helped bring it to a point where it is usable again. At least the first floor is usable again. We've also brought $636,407 to the city of Great Bend's property owners to improve the appearance of the downtown properties."

Tuesday's votes by the commission were merely approval for letters of support for the projects. Commissioners Tricia Schlessiger and Duane Reif seconded Hutchinson's sentiments.

"One of the top things we all get behind is housing and daycare in this community," Schlessiger said. "To add more apartments to the Zarah, or I don't know what they're going to do with the upstairs here but, either way, it's a great use of square footage. I'd definitely support both of these."

"It's really the cheapest form of housing we can do," Reif said. "Even though it looks like a lot of money, I think with that many apartments, it's a cheap way of increasing the population in Barton County."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776949689.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission approved&nbsp; letters of support for&nbsp; two development projects in downtown Great Bend during Tuesday's meeting." />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission approved&nbsp; letters of support for&nbsp; two development projects in downtown Great Bend during Tuesday's meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post"We don't need more taxes in Barton County, we need more taxpayers in Barton County." Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson coined the phrase and has tried making that true for the county. Hutchinson spoke Tuesday morning before the board of commissioners approved a pair of letters in support of two downtown development projects in Great Bend."Our downtowns are a barometer to gauge our community's mental health and emotional well-being," he said. "The downtowns can also be a tool that can help improve our community's mental and emotional health. This requires continued investment and partnerships."The commission first approved a letter of support regarding the Lofts at the Zarah Project. Original plans included converting the building at 1917 Lakin Ave. in Great Bend to 24 apartments. The decision to renovate the fourth floor and add four more apartments made the project eligible for $128,000 in additional assistance through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. The commission also approved a letter of support for the High Noon Loft Grant for the former JC Penney building at 1500 Kansas Ave., which the county leased to house operations during the courthouse HVAC renovation project."If someone would say to me, put your money where your mouth is, I would say Barton County has put their money where their mouth is," Hutchinson said. "We have lived with less-than-desirable conditions at the JC Penney building, and we've helped bring it to a point where it is usable again. At least the first floor is usable again. We've also brought $636,407 to the city of Great Bend's property owners to improve the appearance of the downtown properties."Tuesday's votes by the commission were merely approval for letters of support for the projects. Commissioners Tricia Schlessiger and Duane Reif seconded Hutchinson's sentiments."One of the top things we all get behind is housing and daycare in this community," Schlessiger said. "To add more apartments to the Zarah, or I don't know what they're going to do with the upstairs here but, either way, it's a great use of square footage. I'd definitely support both of these.""It's really the cheapest form of housing we can do," Reif said. "Even though it looks like a lot of money, I think with that many apartments, it's a cheap way of increasing the population in Barton County."

Barton Commission approves letters of support for GB developments

The Bushton Proud Committee will host a Karaoke &amp; BBQ Night on Saturday, April 20, at the Bushton Community Center, 301 N. Main Street, Bushton.

Happy Hour, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase, will begin at 5 p.m., the free-will-donation meal, featuring Hog Wild barbeque, will be served from 6 – 8 p.m., and karaoke will run from 7 – 11 p.m.

The Hog Wild barbeque meal will include a choice of brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, and a choice of two of three side dishes. Take-out meals will be available. Karaoke will be directed by Mike Osburn with Noisy Neighbors Entertainment of Newton.

The event is a fundraiser for the Proud Committee with proceeds going toward future Committee projects and events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712669938676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Bushton Proud Committee will host a Karaoke &amp; BBQ Night on Saturday, April 20, at the Bushton Community Center, 301 N. Main Street, Bushton.Happy Hour, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase, will begin at 5 p.m., the free-will-donation meal, featuring Hog Wild barbeque, will be served from 6 – 8 p.m., and karaoke will run from 7 – 11 p.m.The Hog Wild barbeque meal will include a choice of brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, and a choice of two of three side dishes. Take-out meals will be available. Karaoke will be directed by Mike Osburn with Noisy Neighbors Entertainment of Newton.The event is a fundraiser for the Proud Committee with proceeds going toward future Committee projects and events.

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