Friday A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 3pm. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 74. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 58. North northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 34. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming south in the evening.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 71. Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 44.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 79.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767795210108.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Friday A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 3pm. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 74. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 58. North northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 34. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming south in the evening.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 71. Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 44.Monday Sunny, with a high near 79.

Friday's weather

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

All boats rise in high tides: if it’s good for Barton
Community College, it’s good for Barton County and all the communities we live
in. That’s how Dr. Marcus Garstecki, BCC president, opened Thursday morning's
announcement from Sen. Jerry Moran at the college’s KanEquip Learning Center. Moran
was in Great Bend to announce a $425,000 allocation to the school’s CDL and ag-tech
program.

“Congress has a piece of legislation that we just passed –
passed by the house, passed by the senate, signed by the president – there’s
designated spending for Barton Community College for workforce training within
the CDL program and the ag-tech program, for purposes of buying equipment,”
Moran said.

In 2024, Barton opened the KanEquip Learning Center, which
houses programs like agriculture business management, crop protection, commercial
driver’s license, and the Top Tech ag mechanics programs. Garstecki called Tuesday’s
announcement a game-changer for the school.

“These are large pieces of equipment that we would have a challenge
being able to fund on our own,” he said. “For example, we’re going to have a
new semi in our CDL program. Without these funds to help us, that’s something
that would be on the wish list for a long time. Our students are going to get
trained on the best equipment, state of the art, and that’s what truly prepares
them for what they’re going to see in the workforce.”

Garstecki said a critical piece of the mission at Barton
Community College is to prepare students for high-paying jobs and careers. Mike
Johnson, chairman of the Barton Board of Trustees, explained how junior
colleges play a role.

“The Kansas community college system currently provides over
70 percent of all technical training in the state of Kansas,” Johnson said. “This
federal funding we received was instrumental in allowing Barton to purchase
some of the critical equipment needed for this facility we are standing in
today, and helps us continue our mission to provide quality education to our
students, and to provide local employees for our employers.”

Moran said the money allocated to Barton is not additional tax
dollars being spent, but rather money that was already going somewhere. He has
made a push to give tax dollars to law enforcement and workforce-related
causes.

“Every time we have the opportunity to help a community
college or technical college have the resources necessary to train workers for
business that are already looking for students with those capabilities, we’re
looking for opportunities to designate those funds,” said Moran.

Garstecki said students in those programs will benefit from
using state-of-the-art equipment and technology, but Thursday’s announcement
will also benefit instructors.

“At the end of the day, we have some of the best instructors
around,” Garstecki said. “You will not find a better group who teach in this
building and around our campus day in and day out. But we also know when we
equip them with the best tools, it only enhances the educational experience and
training they are able to give to our students. That’s critical to the job we
do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772755298596.jpeg" alt="Sen. Jerry Moran speaks at the KanEquip Learning Center during a Thursday stop at Barton Community College. (photos courtesy of Sen. Moran's office)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Jerry Moran speaks at the KanEquip Learning Center during a Thursday stop at Barton Community College. (photos courtesy of Sen. Moran's office)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAll boats rise in high tides: if it’s good for Barton
Community College, it’s good for Barton County and all the communities we live
in. That’s how Dr. Marcus Garstecki, BCC president, opened Thursday morning's
announcement from Sen. Jerry Moran at the college’s KanEquip Learning Center. Moran
was in Great Bend to announce a $425,000 allocation to the school’s CDL and ag-tech
program.“Congress has a piece of legislation that we just passed –
passed by the house, passed by the senate, signed by the president – there’s
designated spending for Barton Community College for workforce training within
the CDL program and the ag-tech program, for purposes of buying equipment,”
Moran said.In 2024, Barton opened the KanEquip Learning Center, which
houses programs like agriculture business management, crop protection, commercial
driver’s license, and the Top Tech ag mechanics programs. Garstecki called Tuesday’s
announcement a game-changer for the school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772755346584.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“These are large pieces of equipment that we would have a challenge
being able to fund on our own,” he said. “For example, we’re going to have a
new semi in our CDL program. Without these funds to help us, that’s something
that would be on the wish list for a long time. Our students are going to get
trained on the best equipment, state of the art, and that’s what truly prepares
them for what they’re going to see in the workforce.”Garstecki said a critical piece of the mission at Barton
Community College is to prepare students for high-paying jobs and careers. Mike
Johnson, chairman of the Barton Board of Trustees, explained how junior
colleges play a role.“The Kansas community college system currently provides over
70 percent of all technical training in the state of Kansas,” Johnson said. “This
federal funding we received was instrumental in allowing Barton to purchase
some of the critical equipment needed for this facility we are standing in
today, and helps us continue our mission to provide quality education to our
students, and to provide local employees for our employers.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772755381695.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Moran said the money allocated to Barton is not additional tax
dollars being spent, but rather money that was already going somewhere. He has
made a push to give tax dollars to law enforcement and workforce-related
causes.“Every time we have the opportunity to help a community
college or technical college have the resources necessary to train workers for
business that are already looking for students with those capabilities, we’re
looking for opportunities to designate those funds,” said Moran.Garstecki said students in those programs will benefit from
using state-of-the-art equipment and technology, but Thursday’s announcement
will also benefit instructors.“At the end of the day, we have some of the best instructors
around,” Garstecki said. “You will not find a better group who teach in this
building and around our campus day in and day out. But we also know when we
equip them with the best tools, it only enhances the educational experience and
training they are able to give to our students. That’s critical to the job we
do.”

Sen. Moran makes Great Bend stop to announce $425,000 allocation to BCC

Six couples will be honored on March 13 as the 2026 class of Kansas Master Farm Families in recognition of their leadership in agriculture, environmental stewardship and service to their communities.

The statewide awards program is in its 99th year and is sponsored by K-State Extension and Kansas Farmer Magazine.

This year’s honorees are: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dean and Marlene Davis, Maple Hill. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David and Sheila Govert, Cunningham. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Garry and Kathy Holloway, Kincaid. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb and Shanda Mattix, Colby. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Keith and Connie Miller, Great Bend. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Roger and Elizabeth Ploeger, Morrill.

The annual awards banquet will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 13 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan.

From &nbsp;Barton County, Keith and Connie Miller were nominated and will be honored at the banquet. Perpetuating the family farm homesteaded in 1920 northeast of Great Bend, the Millers have steadily grown their diversified operation over the last 49 years.

Coming out of high school, Keith put in one year at Barton County Community College before returning to the farm for good. Starting in 1976, he and Connie partnered with Keith’s parents, Carl and Evelyn, raising beef cows, hogs and 500 acres of crops on the farmstead just south of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge.

Keith and Connie fully took over the operation in 1990, which has now expanded to several thousand acres of wheat, corn, alfalfa, soybeans and grain sorghum. They also run a 200-head beef cattle herd. Their three daughters, Amber, Brooke and Dara, were all active on the farm growing up. Currently, Dara and her husband Jason are directly involved in the operation. As the business manager for the operation, Connie is in the process of handing those duties fully over to Dara.

Keith and Connie have been fully committed to leadership and service at the local, state and even national levels. Keith is a past chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation, and a past chair of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s international trade committee. He has also served on the Kansas Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors for 17 years, and is the current chair of the Kanas Soybean Commission.

Connie was a long-time 4-H community leader and church youth leader, among other local leadership positions. Keith and Connie fully credit their family support system for their extensive accomplishments.

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

<a></a>K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Six couples will be honored on March 13 as the 2026 class of Kansas Master Farm Families in recognition of their leadership in agriculture, environmental stewardship and service to their communities.The statewide awards program is in its 99th year and is sponsored by K-State Extension and Kansas Farmer Magazine.This year’s honorees are: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dean and Marlene Davis, Maple Hill. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David and Sheila Govert, Cunningham. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Garry and Kathy Holloway, Kincaid. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb and Shanda Mattix, Colby. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Keith and Connie Miller, Great Bend. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Roger and Elizabeth Ploeger, Morrill.The annual awards banquet will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 13 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan.From &nbsp;Barton County, Keith and Connie Miller were nominated and will be honored at the banquet. Perpetuating the family farm homesteaded in 1920 northeast of Great Bend, the Millers have steadily grown their diversified operation over the last 49 years.Coming out of high school, Keith put in one year at Barton County Community College before returning to the farm for good. Starting in 1976, he and Connie partnered with Keith’s parents, Carl and Evelyn, raising beef cows, hogs and 500 acres of crops on the farmstead just south of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge.Keith and Connie fully took over the operation in 1990, which has now expanded to several thousand acres of wheat, corn, alfalfa, soybeans and grain sorghum. They also run a 200-head beef cattle herd. Their three daughters, Amber, Brooke and Dara, were all active on the farm growing up. Currently, Dara and her husband Jason are directly involved in the operation. As the business manager for the operation, Connie is in the process of handing those duties fully over to Dara.Keith and Connie have been fully committed to leadership and service at the local, state and even national levels. Keith is a past chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation, and a past chair of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s international trade committee. He has also served on the Kansas Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors for 17 years, and is the current chair of the Kanas Soybean Commission.Connie was a long-time 4-H community leader and church youth leader, among other local leadership positions. Keith and Connie fully credit their family support system for their extensive accomplishments.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.<a></a>K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Keith and Connie Miller to be recognized as Kansas Master Farm Family

A Larned native is using her personal and professional backgrounds in her new position at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), which she describes as a facility that combines “small-town heart with big-city healthcare.”

Allisa Spain is the new director of marketing and the PVCH Foundation.

“I have always had a passion for public relations, marketing and graphic design,” Spain said. “Whether sharing an update, promoting a service, celebrating our staff or asking the community to invest in a cause, the focus is on clear communication, consistency and respect for the people we serve.

“This mindset aligns closely with the hospital’s mission. It is my privilege to tell the story of PVCH, while strengthening relationships, and supporting its future through communication and strong Foundation leadership.”

Spain emphasized that residents of Pawnee and surrounding counties “should be proud of this wonderful facility. All of us, myself included, have a stake in the hospital’s success. It is a big part of the reason I want to raise my children here.”

Prior to taking on this new position, Spain led the communication and engagement efforts in Larned USD 495.

“That position helped me build on relationships I have fostered over a lifetime,” she commented. “It allows me to feel comfortable working independently by moving quickly when needed and thinking strategically when it comes to long-term goals.

“These experiences support the missions of the hospital and Foundation,” Spain said. “We understand the importance of donor relations, fundraising events, grant writing and communication with boards of directors and trustees. I take this responsibility seriously because I genuinely care about the people in this great central Kansas community.”

After graduating from Larned High School in 2013, Spain earned her cosmetology license in 2014 at Bellus Academy in Manhattan. In 2017, she returned to Larned where she owned and operated Platinum Studio until 2022.

“Now that I am in this PVCH position, my background in business operations, staff management, marketing and hands-on leadership allows me to support our community in a new way,” Spain summarized. “Deep ties to the Larned area and a strong desire to support an organization that cares for local families will guide me as we share the PVCH message.”

Spain and Ty Racette have two children – Cash, 7, and Baylor, 3. Her parents are Lisa and Steve Spain of Larned.

Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, said “Allisa’s deep roots in this community and her genuine commitment to the people we serve make her an incredible addition to our team. We are grateful to have someone who not only believes in the mission of PVCH but lives it every day through her compassion, creativity and love for this community.”

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility, offering many services not typically available in a smaller facility. Included are 24/7 emergency care; acute, skilled and specialized nursing; surgery; high-tech imaging and laboratory tests; wound care; rehabilitation; and sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides the full range of family-medicine services; physician-assisted weight loss; and women’s health services. The hospital’s number is 620-285-3161; the clinic’s number is 620-804-6007.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772734272201.jpeg" alt="Alissa Spain" />
 <figcaption>Alissa Spain</figcaption>
 </figure>A Larned native is using her personal and professional backgrounds in her new position at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), which she describes as a facility that combines “small-town heart with big-city healthcare.”Allisa Spain is the new director of marketing and the PVCH Foundation.“I have always had a passion for public relations, marketing and graphic design,” Spain said. “Whether sharing an update, promoting a service, celebrating our staff or asking the community to invest in a cause, the focus is on clear communication, consistency and respect for the people we serve.“This mindset aligns closely with the hospital’s mission. It is my privilege to tell the story of PVCH, while strengthening relationships, and supporting its future through communication and strong Foundation leadership.”Spain emphasized that residents of Pawnee and surrounding counties “should be proud of this wonderful facility. All of us, myself included, have a stake in the hospital’s success. It is a big part of the reason I want to raise my children here.”Prior to taking on this new position, Spain led the communication and engagement efforts in Larned USD 495.“That position helped me build on relationships I have fostered over a lifetime,” she commented. “It allows me to feel comfortable working independently by moving quickly when needed and thinking strategically when it comes to long-term goals.“These experiences support the missions of the hospital and Foundation,” Spain said. “We understand the importance of donor relations, fundraising events, grant writing and communication with boards of directors and trustees. I take this responsibility seriously because I genuinely care about the people in this great central Kansas community.”After graduating from Larned High School in 2013, Spain earned her cosmetology license in 2014 at Bellus Academy in Manhattan. In 2017, she returned to Larned where she owned and operated Platinum Studio until 2022.“Now that I am in this PVCH position, my background in business operations, staff management, marketing and hands-on leadership allows me to support our community in a new way,” Spain summarized. “Deep ties to the Larned area and a strong desire to support an organization that cares for local families will guide me as we share the PVCH message.”Spain and Ty Racette have two children – Cash, 7, and Baylor, 3. Her parents are Lisa and Steve Spain of Larned.Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, said “Allisa’s deep roots in this community and her genuine commitment to the people we serve make her an incredible addition to our team. We are grateful to have someone who not only believes in the mission of PVCH but lives it every day through her compassion, creativity and love for this community.”Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility, offering many services not typically available in a smaller facility. Included are 24/7 emergency care; acute, skilled and specialized nursing; surgery; high-tech imaging and laboratory tests; wound care; rehabilitation; and sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides the full range of family-medicine services; physician-assisted weight loss; and women’s health services. The hospital’s number is 620-285-3161; the clinic’s number is 620-804-6007.

Spain serving Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Foundation in new position

Eagle Media in Great Bend produces the Great Bend Post Podcast, available wherever you consume your podcasts. Hear past shows, interviews and meetings from local guests in the Barton County area. Make sure to follow the Post Podcast to receive notifications of new episodes.

View Great Bend Post Podcast on Apple Podcasts&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/great-bend-post-podcast/id1693657426">HERE</a>. View Great Bend Post Podcast on Spotify&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4E0Vv03Pfyf9n37kFV4n5b">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Media in Great Bend produces the Great Bend Post Podcast, available wherever you consume your podcasts. Hear past shows, interviews and meetings from local guests in the Barton County area. Make sure to follow the Post Podcast to receive notifications of new episodes.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="480" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:480px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=15&filter=all&ss=833a6f4ad6a16bff4d2336a628c9e637&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=480" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>View Great Bend Post Podcast on Apple Podcasts&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/great-bend-post-podcast/id1693657426">HERE</a>. View Great Bend Post Podcast on Spotify&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4E0Vv03Pfyf9n37kFV4n5b">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙Follow the Great Bend Post Podcast - New Episodes

BY DALE HOGG Hogg Strategies &amp; Stories

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has honored Mark Calcara with the 2025 Legacy Award, recognizing a lifetime of service that left an indelible mark on the community.

He stood with Business of the Year Stueder Contractors Inc., Citizen of the Year Nancy Sundahl and NextGen Leader of the Year Cody Harris as an honoree during the chamber’s 104th annual awards banquet Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Great Bend Events Center.

The Legacy Award is a discretionary honor selected by the chamber board, reserved for individuals whose influence spans decades. It was first established to honor the legacy of JanSport founder and Great Bend native Skip Yowell.

Calcara’s influence on the local business landscape was significant, including his service as the chamber’s board chair in 1986. His professional work and civic involvement helped set the standard for leadership in the region.

"The Legacy Award honors those who have made a lasting impact on the fabric of our community," the chamber stated. Calcara’s dedication to Great Bend continues to be felt through the businesses he supported and the community leaders he mentored over his years of service.

A lifelong resident, Calcara’s roots in Barton County run deep. A graduate of Great Bend High School, he is a fourth-generation farmer who still lives on his childhood homestead. His professional legal career began in 1980 when he opened a private practice before partnering with Earl Watkins in 1983; that firm has since grown to include nine attorneys and 11 staff members.

Calcara’s civic resume includes serving as chamber board chairman in 1986 and being named Citizen of the Year in 2000. He was instrumental in founding the Golden Belt Community Foundation and has served on boards for the Great Bend Co-op, American State Bank, and the University of Kansas Health System.

His leadership extended to regional infrastructure as well, serving 15 years as general counsel for Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Locally, he contributed to the Downtown Streetscape Project and chaired the Great Bend Economic Development board.

He is a member of the First United Methodist Church and is an active supporter of USD 428, where three of his grandchildren are currently enrolled.

Calcara earned his business degree from Kansas State University and his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka.

“Originally, he was not planning on coming to Great Bend,” his wife of 46 years Melanie, said.

After graduating from KSU, he joined the Air Force for three years. He planned to serve his country then attend law school and go out on his own.

But while at Washburn, his father passed away. “He has five siblings (two sisters and two brothers) and none of them were interested in coming back to run the family farm,” she said.

“He felt the responsibility to come back,” his wife said. So, during the summers while in law school, he came home and farmed.

After graduation, he moved back to stay. “He did farm for the first 20 years of our marriage,” she said.

“He’s from here and he knew a lot of people,” she said. So, he threw himself into the community, meeting more people and getting even more involved.

“I couldn’t understand this at first,” Melanie said. She thought he was spreading himself too thin.

“I didn’t understand the importance of community,” she said. But Calcara did and “eventually, he won me over.”

Today, both are integral components of Great Bend.

They have two sons: Taylor, his wife Kelly and three children of Great Bend; and Chris, his wife Vanessa and three children of Lenexa. “We are blessed with six grandchildren,” Melanie said.

Taylor is continuing the family’s legal legacy. He joined his father’s law firm.

Melanie noted his deep devotion to the city. "Most people will say that he ‘bleeds purple,’" she said. "While this may be true, I’ve always said he has a great big ‘GB’ branded on his heart."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772734960953.jpeg" alt="Mark Calcara was recognized with the 2025 Legacy Award at the Great Bend Chamber Banquet on Feb. 28. (photo by Brandon Steinert)" />
 <figcaption>Mark Calcara was recognized with the 2025 Legacy Award at the Great Bend Chamber Banquet on Feb. 28. (photo by Brandon Steinert)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY DALE HOGG Hogg Strategies &amp; StoriesThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has honored Mark Calcara with the 2025 Legacy Award, recognizing a lifetime of service that left an indelible mark on the community.He stood with Business of the Year Stueder Contractors Inc., Citizen of the Year Nancy Sundahl and NextGen Leader of the Year Cody Harris as an honoree during the chamber’s 104th annual awards banquet Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Great Bend Events Center.The Legacy Award is a discretionary honor selected by the chamber board, reserved for individuals whose influence spans decades. It was first established to honor the legacy of JanSport founder and Great Bend native Skip Yowell.Calcara’s influence on the local business landscape was significant, including his service as the chamber’s board chair in 1986. His professional work and civic involvement helped set the standard for leadership in the region."The Legacy Award honors those who have made a lasting impact on the fabric of our community," the chamber stated. Calcara’s dedication to Great Bend continues to be felt through the businesses he supported and the community leaders he mentored over his years of service.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772734920432.jpeg" alt="Mark with his son, Taylor. (photo by Brandon Steinert)" />
 <figcaption>Mark with his son, Taylor. (photo by Brandon Steinert)</figcaption>
 </figure>A lifelong resident, Calcara’s roots in Barton County run deep. A graduate of Great Bend High School, he is a fourth-generation farmer who still lives on his childhood homestead. His professional legal career began in 1980 when he opened a private practice before partnering with Earl Watkins in 1983; that firm has since grown to include nine attorneys and 11 staff members.Calcara’s civic resume includes serving as chamber board chairman in 1986 and being named Citizen of the Year in 2000. He was instrumental in founding the Golden Belt Community Foundation and has served on boards for the Great Bend Co-op, American State Bank, and the University of Kansas Health System.His leadership extended to regional infrastructure as well, serving 15 years as general counsel for Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Locally, he contributed to the Downtown Streetscape Project and chaired the Great Bend Economic Development board.He is a member of the First United Methodist Church and is an active supporter of USD 428, where three of his grandchildren are currently enrolled.Calcara earned his business degree from Kansas State University and his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka.“Originally, he was not planning on coming to Great Bend,” his wife of 46 years Melanie, said.After graduating from KSU, he joined the Air Force for three years. He planned to serve his country then attend law school and go out on his own.But while at Washburn, his father passed away. “He has five siblings (two sisters and two brothers) and none of them were interested in coming back to run the family farm,” she said.“He felt the responsibility to come back,” his wife said. So, during the summers while in law school, he came home and farmed.After graduation, he moved back to stay. “He did farm for the first 20 years of our marriage,” she said.“He’s from here and he knew a lot of people,” she said. So, he threw himself into the community, meeting more people and getting even more involved.“I couldn’t understand this at first,” Melanie said. She thought he was spreading himself too thin.“I didn’t understand the importance of community,” she said. But Calcara did and “eventually, he won me over.”Today, both are integral components of Great Bend.They have two sons: Taylor, his wife Kelly and three children of Great Bend; and Chris, his wife Vanessa and three children of Lenexa. “We are blessed with six grandchildren,” Melanie said.Taylor is continuing the family’s legal legacy. He joined his father’s law firm.Melanie noted his deep devotion to the city. "Most people will say that he ‘bleeds purple,’" she said. "While this may be true, I’ve always said he has a great big ‘GB’ branded on his heart."

Legacy Award: Calcara bleeds KSU purple, but loves Great Bend

Due to the absence of a quorum, the March 16, 2026, Great Bend City Council meeting has been canceled. No makeup date will be rescheduled.

The next city council meeting will be held on April 6, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the council chambers. In the time being, citizens can reach out to their ward representatives or the City of Great Bend at (620) 793-4111 for questions regarding city matters.

The agenda for the April 6, 2026, meeting will be posted the Wednesday prior on April 1, 2026. Past agendas and minutes are available to view on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.greatbendks.net/agendacenter">city’s website</a>.

From the city of Great BendDue to the absence of a quorum, the March 16, 2026, Great Bend City Council meeting has been canceled. No makeup date will be rescheduled.The next city council meeting will be held on April 6, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the council chambers. In the time being, citizens can reach out to their ward representatives or the City of Great Bend at (620) 793-4111 for questions regarding city matters.The agenda for the April 6, 2026, meeting will be posted the Wednesday prior on April 1, 2026. Past agendas and minutes are available to view on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.greatbendks.net/agendacenter">city’s website</a>.

Great Bend City Council cancels March 16 meeting

A national championship in 2024. Renovations at the Kirkman
Center. Eleven wins in the last 12 games. Things are looking good for the
Barton Community College men’s basketball team. Whether the Cougars are still playing or not in mid-March, that’s why
the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference has selected Barton as the site
for its Region 6 Final Four games in March. Barton Athletic Director Trevor
Rolfs hopes there will be some local representation.

“It was voted on that Barton will host the Region Final Four
on March 13-14,” he said. “We certainly want both of our teams playing, but in
the end, at least one of them playing in that Final Four we are set to host in
March.”

Opening round playoff games begin on Saturday, March 7, with
the higher seeds hosting bracket games. Quarterfinals are set for Tuesday,
March 10, again at the higher seed, and the semifinal and finals will be played
at the Kirkman Center.

As of March 1, the Barton men stood atop the Region 6
rankings with a 21-8 record, meaning the Cougars would host the playoffs throughout.
The Cougar women were sitting at No. 6 in the region as of March 1. If the
Cougars can maintain a top eight seed, they too would host a round-one playoff
game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772669068607.jpeg" alt="Cougar freshman Jayden Ramirez drives during a game against Fort Hays Tech NW during a game earlier this month. (photo by Barton Sports)" />
 <figcaption>Cougar freshman Jayden Ramirez drives during a game against Fort Hays Tech NW during a game earlier this month. (photo by Barton Sports)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA national championship in 2024. Renovations at the Kirkman
Center. Eleven wins in the last 12 games. Things are looking good for the
Barton Community College men’s basketball team. Whether the Cougars are still playing or not in mid-March, that’s why
the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference has selected Barton as the site
for its Region 6 Final Four games in March. Barton Athletic Director Trevor
Rolfs hopes there will be some local representation.“It was voted on that Barton will host the Region Final Four
on March 13-14,” he said. “We certainly want both of our teams playing, but in
the end, at least one of them playing in that Final Four we are set to host in
March.”Opening round playoff games begin on Saturday, March 7, with
the higher seeds hosting bracket games. Quarterfinals are set for Tuesday,
March 10, again at the higher seed, and the semifinal and finals will be played
at the Kirkman Center.As of March 1, the Barton men stood atop the Region 6
rankings with a 21-8 record, meaning the Cougars would host the playoffs throughout.
The Cougar women were sitting at No. 6 in the region as of March 1. If the
Cougars can maintain a top eight seed, they too would host a round-one playoff
game.

Barton Community College ready to host Region 6 Final Four games in March

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansans receiving food assistance can’t buy soda or candy with those dollars beginning in 2027, Gov. Laura Kelly said Wednesday.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.fns.usda.gov%2Fsnap%2Fwaivers%2Ffoodrestriction/1/0101019cbab54047-08a03f0a-e32d-46c2-9b36-524fa331e2bb-000000/0T9ZyQ1ireBQHHUS257jy1tmZiFh3-HIbXcpR_BLOjY=447" target="_blank">approved a waiver</a>&nbsp;for the Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The state joins 21 other states in restricting candy and soda purchases with SNAP dollars, Kelly said in a news release. The Legislature passed a law last year requiring the administration to seek the waiver. Kelly vetoed the law but was overridden by GOP supermajorities in the House and Senate.

While the governor said she supports policies that incentivize healthy eating, Kelly encouraged the USDA to develop a strategy to implement such waivers that reduce “confusion and uncertainty” for retailers and recipients.

Kelly referred to confusion across the country about which products are considered candy and soda. Products people think of as candy may not meet the definition under the law, which has caused problems for retailers and recipients in other states. In Louisiana, for instance, soda made with&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2026/02/26/what-foods-are-forbidden-under-louisianas-new-snap-rules-take-our-quiz/" target="_blank">cane sugar is OK to purchase</a>, the Louisiana Illuminator reported.

The Kansas waiver goes into effect Feb. 15, 2027. Kelly’s news release said the state will use candy and soda definitions that are already set in the state’s food and sales tax laws:

Instituting the waiver requires four elements, including communication to retailers and recipients, as well as detailed evaluation, monitoring and compliance. The Kansas Department for Families and Children is seeking a contractor to help with implementation.

“Kansas is now a part of the MAHA (Make American Healthy Again) movement,” said Senate President Ty Masterson in a news release.

MAHA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/maha/index.html" target="_blank">a movement</a>&nbsp;led by U.S. Health and Human Services Sec. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to address the chronic disease epidemic and healthy eating habits.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins said the waiver approval was a “significant step toward ensuring taxpayer-funded food assistance programs prioritize nutrition and align with the original intent of the program.”

“I’m glad to see this waiver finally moving forward,” he said. “I’m all for helping someone who’s down on their luck but if taxpayer dollars are going toward food assistance, it only makes sense they should support real nutrition, not pop and candy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772720795184.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansans receiving food assistance can’t buy soda or candy with those dollars beginning in 2027, Gov. Laura Kelly said Wednesday.The U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.fns.usda.gov%2Fsnap%2Fwaivers%2Ffoodrestriction/1/0101019cbab54047-08a03f0a-e32d-46c2-9b36-524fa331e2bb-000000/0T9ZyQ1ireBQHHUS257jy1tmZiFh3-HIbXcpR_BLOjY=447" target="_blank">approved a waiver</a>&nbsp;for the Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.The state joins 21 other states in restricting candy and soda purchases with SNAP dollars, Kelly said in a news release. The Legislature passed a law last year requiring the administration to seek the waiver. Kelly vetoed the law but was overridden by GOP supermajorities in the House and Senate.While the governor said she supports policies that incentivize healthy eating, Kelly encouraged the USDA to develop a strategy to implement such waivers that reduce “confusion and uncertainty” for retailers and recipients.Kelly referred to confusion across the country about which products are considered candy and soda. Products people think of as candy may not meet the definition under the law, which has caused problems for retailers and recipients in other states. In Louisiana, for instance, soda made with&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2026/02/26/what-foods-are-forbidden-under-louisianas-new-snap-rules-take-our-quiz/" target="_blank">cane sugar is OK to purchase</a>, the Louisiana Illuminator reported.The Kansas waiver goes into effect Feb. 15, 2027. Kelly’s news release said the state will use candy and soda definitions that are already set in the state’s food and sales tax laws:<ul>
 <li>“Candy is defined as a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners in combination with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings in the form of bars, drops, or pieces. Candy does not include any preparation containing flour and shall require no refrigeration.</li><li>“Soft drink beverages are defined as nonalcoholic beverages that contain natural or artificial sweeteners. Soft drinks do not include beverages that contain milk or milk products, soy, rice, or similar milk substitutes or beverages that are greater than 50% vegetable or fruit juice by volume.”</li>
 </ul>Instituting the waiver requires four elements, including communication to retailers and recipients, as well as detailed evaluation, monitoring and compliance. The Kansas Department for Families and Children is seeking a contractor to help with implementation.“Kansas is now a part of the MAHA (Make American Healthy Again) movement,” said Senate President Ty Masterson in a news release.MAHA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/maha/index.html" target="_blank">a movement</a>&nbsp;led by U.S. Health and Human Services Sec. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to address the chronic disease epidemic and healthy eating habits.House Speaker Dan Hawkins said the waiver approval was a “significant step toward ensuring taxpayer-funded food assistance programs prioritize nutrition and align with the original intent of the program.”“I’m glad to see this waiver finally moving forward,” he said. “I’m all for helping someone who’s down on their luck but if taxpayer dollars are going toward food assistance, it only makes sense they should support real nutrition, not pop and candy.”

Kansans on food assistance can’t buy candy, soda beginning in February 2027

Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club is hosting the 10th Annual “Hippity Hop Easter Basket Workshop” on March 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rosewood Activity Center, 1607 Main Street, Great Bend, adjacent to Rosewood Gallery.

During the workshop, children can create their own Easter baskets, decorate Easter eggs, and participate in other fun activities, like coloring Easter pages. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, and children can take photos with him. Families have the option of taking free cell phone photos, or pay $3 to receive a printed photo with the Easter Bunny.

Beyond an exciting meet-up with the Easter Bunny, Rosewood AKTION Club members are working on an extra surprise for children to add to the already-fun event.

There is a donation request of $5 per basket for participants, which helps cover the cost of materials for the workshop. Any other proceeds raised from the workshop go toward Rosewood AKTION Club efforts in organizing future community projects.

“Easter Basket Workshop comes early this year, so we want to be sure to put the event on the community’s radar,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “The workshop is always a fun time for the children who attend, especially getting to spend time with Easter Bunny, and our AKTION Club members like bringing this event to them every year.”

Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

Find out more about Rosewood Services online,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://rosewoodservices.com/">rosewoodservices.com</a>Follow us at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodServices">facebook.com/RosewoodServices</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772667124273.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club is hosting the 10th Annual “Hippity Hop Easter Basket Workshop” on March 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rosewood Activity Center, 1607 Main Street, Great Bend, adjacent to Rosewood Gallery.During the workshop, children can create their own Easter baskets, decorate Easter eggs, and participate in other fun activities, like coloring Easter pages. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, and children can take photos with him. Families have the option of taking free cell phone photos, or pay $3 to receive a printed photo with the Easter Bunny.Beyond an exciting meet-up with the Easter Bunny, Rosewood AKTION Club members are working on an extra surprise for children to add to the already-fun event.There is a donation request of $5 per basket for participants, which helps cover the cost of materials for the workshop. Any other proceeds raised from the workshop go toward Rosewood AKTION Club efforts in organizing future community projects.“Easter Basket Workshop comes early this year, so we want to be sure to put the event on the community’s radar,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “The workshop is always a fun time for the children who attend, especially getting to spend time with Easter Bunny, and our AKTION Club members like bringing this event to them every year.”Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.Find out more about Rosewood Services online,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://rosewoodservices.com/">rosewoodservices.com</a>Follow us at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodServices">facebook.com/RosewoodServices</a>

Rosewood AKTION Club hosting Easter Basket Workshop on March 28

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran will visit Barton Community College on Friday morning to formally announce federal funding supporting several of the college’s workforce training programs.

The announcement is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at Barton’s Agriculture and Transportation Complex. The funding, awarded through Congressional Delegated Spending, will support the college’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Top Tech and agriculture programs.

Barton Community College President Dr. Marcus Garstecki will open the event with brief remarks, followed by Barton Community College Board Chairman Mike Johnson. Moran will then speak about the funding and its impact on the college’s programs.

Following the remarks, Moran and attendees will take a short tour of the facility.

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran will visit Barton Community College on Friday morning to formally announce federal funding supporting several of the college’s workforce training programs.The announcement is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at Barton’s Agriculture and Transportation Complex. The funding, awarded through Congressional Delegated Spending, will support the college’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Top Tech and agriculture programs.Barton Community College President Dr. Marcus Garstecki will open the event with brief remarks, followed by Barton Community College Board Chairman Mike Johnson. Moran will then speak about the funding and its impact on the college’s programs.Following the remarks, Moran and attendees will take a short tour of the facility.

Sen. Moran to Visit Barton Community College for Funding Announcement

Released Mcbride, Karie on Barton County District Court case #25-1207 for Aggravated Battery, Barton County District Court Warrants #BT2024CR0374 for Contempt of Court, and #BT2019CR0026 for Probation Violation. Released to Kansas Department of Corrections.

Booked Dechant, Murdock J. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20260092 for Failure to Appear. Bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Dechant, Murdock J. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20260092 for Failure to Appear by posting a $500.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Thimesch, Richard II on Barton County District Court Warrant #BT2023CR300016 for Failure to appear. Bond set at No Bond.

Released Lang, Ryan D. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0063 for Interference with Law Enforcement, Theft, Criminal Trespass, Criminal Damage to Property, and No Valid Driver's License by posting a $2,500.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Dixon, Cierra C. on Great Bend Municipal Court case #26-316 for Driving While Revoked; bond set at $1,000.00 cash or Surety or 48 Hour O.R.

Released Dixon, Cierra C. on Great Bend Municipal Court case #26-316 for Driving While Revoked by posting a $1,000.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Released Dominguez, Virdiana on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026TR0004 for Failure to Appear with Time Served; and Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500658 for Contempt of Court; Indirect, released by Order of the Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>3/4</h2>Released Mcbride, Karie on Barton County District Court case #25-1207 for Aggravated Battery, Barton County District Court Warrants #BT2024CR0374 for Contempt of Court, and #BT2019CR0026 for Probation Violation. Released to Kansas Department of Corrections.Booked Dechant, Murdock J. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20260092 for Failure to Appear. Bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.Released Dechant, Murdock J. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20260092 for Failure to Appear by posting a $500.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.Booked Thimesch, Richard II on Barton County District Court Warrant #BT2023CR300016 for Failure to appear. Bond set at No Bond.Released Lang, Ryan D. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0063 for Interference with Law Enforcement, Theft, Criminal Trespass, Criminal Damage to Property, and No Valid Driver's License by posting a $2,500.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.Booked Dixon, Cierra C. on Great Bend Municipal Court case #26-316 for Driving While Revoked; bond set at $1,000.00 cash or Surety or 48 Hour O.R.Released Dixon, Cierra C. on Great Bend Municipal Court case #26-316 for Driving While Revoked by posting a $1,000.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.Released Dominguez, Virdiana on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026TR0004 for Failure to Appear with Time Served; and Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500658 for Contempt of Court; Indirect, released by Order of the Court.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770904269445.png" alt="Your Ad Here! Call 620-792-3647" />
 <figcaption>Your Ad Here! Call 620-792-3647</figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (3/4)

Not everyone owns a golf cart, but twice in the past two years,
the Great Bend City Council has voted on whether or not to allow the
vehicles on city streets and how to regulate them. Monday night, the council revised its 2024 update
with a new set of rules. City Clerk Shawna Schafer recapped the biggest changes
to the resolution.

“The motion that (City Attorney Allen Glendenning) is
requesting is the golf cart ordinance for sunset to sunrise no golf carts, valid
driver’s and 18 years old, one-time inspection if it’s the same golf cart, and
annual renewal with a fee of $50,” Schafer recapped.

City Administrator Logan Burns laid out the revisions,
including on which streets the golf carts would be allowed. Golf carts are prohibited
on state or federal highways, or specified arterial streets in the city.

“This would include Broadway east of Patton, 24th
Street east of McKinley, Harrison south of 24th, Washington and
Patton north of 10th Street,” Burns said. “Operation would be
permitted only on streets with posted speed limits of 30&nbsp; miles an hour or less. Golf carts would, however,
be allowed to cross those restricted roadways at designated intersections.”

Legal golf carts will be registered with the Great Bend
Police Department annually and include seat belts for rear-facing seats, headlights, brake
lights, and liability insurance. Police
Chief Steve Haulmark did not oppose the ordinance as presented. 

“My main concern with that was just that it be an individual
with a valid license,” said Haulmark. “I didn’t want to see anyone with a farm license
or permit, or anything like that. I feel like if somebody has a valid license,
I’m satisfied with that, however, that’s entirely up to you guys. That shows me
that person has been through driver training or, at least, taken the driver
exam, so they know the rules of the road.”

Haulmark added part of the registration process will include
handing the registrant a copy of the ordinance so there can be no doubt about knowledge
of the rules.

Council Member Gary Parr took exception to the proposed $30
registration fee, suggesting it be raised to at least $100, with a portion of
the registration fee and any golf cart-related fines being donated to a local children-related
charity.

Glendenning said fees, by statute, may not be used for that
purpose, but if a driver accused on an infraction went through the city’s diversion
program, funds could be used for charity purposes.

Council Member Davis Jimenez asked for a yearly inspection
upon registration of a cart. Mayor Alan Moeder said he felt that was unnecessary
if the cart had been previously registered.

“I think driving a golf cart in the city is asking a lot from
the community; slowing traffic down, the increase of safety issues,” Jimenez said.
“The least is a yearly inspection.”

The final issue was the age of the cart driver. Council
Member Jay Luerman suggested, and other council members agreed, they would not
vote on an ordinance that allowed cart drivers to be 16.

“Obviously, a vehicle has more safety features than a golf
cart, so I don’t think it’s comparing apples to apples,” Luerman said of driving
a car. 

The council voted 7-1 in favor of the revised ordinance,
including the increased fee and restriction of the driver being at least 18
years of age. Jimenez was the lone vote against the revision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772672782844.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNot everyone owns a golf cart, but twice in the past two years,
the Great Bend City Council has voted on whether or not to allow the
vehicles on city streets and how to regulate them. Monday night, the council revised its 2024 update
with a new set of rules. City Clerk Shawna Schafer recapped the biggest changes
to the resolution.“The motion that (City Attorney Allen Glendenning) is
requesting is the golf cart ordinance for sunset to sunrise no golf carts, valid
driver’s and 18 years old, one-time inspection if it’s the same golf cart, and
annual renewal with a fee of $50,” Schafer recapped.City Administrator Logan Burns laid out the revisions,
including on which streets the golf carts would be allowed. Golf carts are prohibited
on state or federal highways, or specified arterial streets in the city.“This would include Broadway east of Patton, 24th
Street east of McKinley, Harrison south of 24th, Washington and
Patton north of 10th Street,” Burns said. “Operation would be
permitted only on streets with posted speed limits of 30&nbsp; miles an hour or less. Golf carts would, however,
be allowed to cross those restricted roadways at designated intersections.”Legal golf carts will be registered with the Great Bend
Police Department annually and include seat belts for rear-facing seats, headlights, brake
lights, and liability insurance. Police
Chief Steve Haulmark did not oppose the ordinance as presented. “My main concern with that was just that it be an individual
with a valid license,” said Haulmark. “I didn’t want to see anyone with a farm license
or permit, or anything like that. I feel like if somebody has a valid license,
I’m satisfied with that, however, that’s entirely up to you guys. That shows me
that person has been through driver training or, at least, taken the driver
exam, so they know the rules of the road.”Haulmark added part of the registration process will include
handing the registrant a copy of the ordinance so there can be no doubt about knowledge
of the rules.Council Member Gary Parr took exception to the proposed $30
registration fee, suggesting it be raised to at least $100, with a portion of
the registration fee and any golf cart-related fines being donated to a local children-related
charity.Glendenning said fees, by statute, may not be used for that
purpose, but if a driver accused on an infraction went through the city’s diversion
program, funds could be used for charity purposes.Council Member Davis Jimenez asked for a yearly inspection
upon registration of a cart. Mayor Alan Moeder said he felt that was unnecessary
if the cart had been previously registered.“I think driving a golf cart in the city is asking a lot from
the community; slowing traffic down, the increase of safety issues,” Jimenez said.
“The least is a yearly inspection.”The final issue was the age of the cart driver. Council
Member Jay Luerman suggested, and other council members agreed, they would not
vote on an ordinance that allowed cart drivers to be 16.“Obviously, a vehicle has more safety features than a golf
cart, so I don’t think it’s comparing apples to apples,” Luerman said of driving
a car. The council voted 7-1 in favor of the revised ordinance,
including the increased fee and restriction of the driver being at least 18
years of age. Jimenez was the lone vote against the revision.

Great Bend City Council approves revisions to golf cart ordinance

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 68. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 6 to 11 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph. Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before midnight, then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 18 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph. Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly clear, with a low around 32.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 57. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 70.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767795210108.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 68. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 6 to 11 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph. Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before midnight, then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 18 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph. Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly clear, with a low around 32.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 57. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 70.

Thursday's weather

High school seniors interested in auditioning for vocal ensembles or instrumental ensembles and learning about scholarship opportunities in music for the 2026–2027 season are encouraged to sign up for one of Barton’s “Music Scholarship Days” on March 7 or April 18, or contact music faculty to schedule an appointment audition on a different date.

Scholarships are available for music majors and non-music majors, instrumental and vocal ensembles, guitar ensemble, and piano instruction and accompaniment. Awards range from $250 to $1,500 per year. Scholarships for music majors can be up to $3,000 per year and can be combined with other academic and activity awards.

Students may earn multiple music scholarships based on their level of involvement, and these awards can be stacked. Participation in more than one ensemble, such as concert band, jazz band, pep band, or Hilltop Singers, can increase a student’s overall scholarship total, as each ensemble has its own specific scholarship award. For more information and to schedule an audition, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=jzFwT5Y5jEGhyumzq5b4FOLg0_Am1mpJkmu38uzHilxUOTc4WktTOUJMUko1SFhQNk0zRzkwSEFOOC4u&amp;route=shorturl" target="_blank">music.bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772647722614.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE VINDUSKA BCCHigh school seniors interested in auditioning for vocal ensembles or instrumental ensembles and learning about scholarship opportunities in music for the 2026–2027 season are encouraged to sign up for one of Barton’s “Music Scholarship Days” on March 7 or April 18, or contact music faculty to schedule an appointment audition on a different date.Scholarships are available for music majors and non-music majors, instrumental and vocal ensembles, guitar ensemble, and piano instruction and accompaniment. Awards range from $250 to $1,500 per year. Scholarships for music majors can be up to $3,000 per year and can be combined with other academic and activity awards.Students may earn multiple music scholarships based on their level of involvement, and these awards can be stacked. Participation in more than one ensemble, such as concert band, jazz band, pep band, or Hilltop Singers, can increase a student’s overall scholarship total, as each ensemble has its own specific scholarship award. For more information and to schedule an audition, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=jzFwT5Y5jEGhyumzq5b4FOLg0_Am1mpJkmu38uzHilxUOTc4WktTOUJMUko1SFhQNk0zRzkwSEFOOC4u&amp;route=shorturl" target="_blank">music.bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Barton Music Department to host scholarship auditions

United Way of Central Kansas invites the community to an upcoming Community Partner Night at Gambino’s Pizza in Great Bend. The event will be held at Gambino's Pizza in downtown Great Bend from 4 p.m. to close on Tuesday, March 10.

Gambino’s will generously donate 10 percent of all sales&nbsp;that evening to UWCK — whether guests dine in or carry out. It’s a simple way to make a real difference. Every order supports programs that: • Put books in children’s hands through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library • Help families maintain reliable transportation • Provide assistance with essential needs • Equip youth with real-world skills

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772647493367.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Central Kansas invites the community to an upcoming Community Partner Night at Gambino’s Pizza in Great Bend. The event will be held at Gambino's Pizza in downtown Great Bend from 4 p.m. to close on Tuesday, March 10.Gambino’s will generously donate 10 percent of all sales&nbsp;that evening to UWCK — whether guests dine in or carry out. It’s a simple way to make a real difference. Every order supports programs that: • Put books in children’s hands through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library • Help families maintain reliable transportation • Provide assistance with essential needs • Equip youth with real-world skills&nbsp;

UWCK hosting Community Partner Night fundraiser at Gambino's on March 10

This January, Barton Theatre students Anna Bitter, Rose Clement, and Jordan McKenzie, along with faculty member Jack Greenwood, represented Barton as they traveled to Rochester, Minn., to participate in the American College Theatre Festival.

Each year, the festival invites theatre students and faculty to a weeklong regional conference featuring workshops, professional development, networking opportunities, auditions, interviews for theatre companies, and productions from participating schools. Barton is part of region five, which includes Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Missouri, and Minnesota.

While attending the conference, all three students participated in workshops covering acting, costuming, stage management, sound design, playwriting, and more. Each also auditioned for professional theatre companies and received callbacks, potentially leading to summer employment.

Bitter advanced to the next round of callbacks for Balladeer Theatre Company in Kansas City. Clement and McKenzie received callbacks for Emporia State University’s Summer Theatre program.

Bitter said attending the festival helped broaden her understanding of the field.

“I enjoyed every opportunity I had while I was there,” she said. “I learned so much about the career I want to go into and other career opportunities I didn’t even know about in theater. I got to meet professionals who taught me various skills. I even auditioned for a paid acting job over the summer, which I am still in consideration for. It was so much fun and opened up new doors for me.”

Other highlights included Bitter participating in a film acting workshop with Spencer Kramber, a former actor on the television series Criminal Minds. McKenzie competed in a costume intensive on a team that created a new costume using only fabric and pins. The design earned a student choice award. Clement attended multiple stage management workshops and plans to apply her training as a stage manager for the upcoming production of “SpongeBob the Musical.”

All three students attended productions from other schools and connected with representatives from four-year colleges regarding potential transfer opportunities.

Greenwood is in his first year of instruction at Barton, and he organized the trip after recognizing the value of the festival experience.

“The festival was where I realized a career in the arts wasn’t just worthwhile, it was necessary,” he said. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today without going to the festival as a student, and I’m happy to share this opportunity with Barton Theatre students.”

The annual festival also awards scholarships, certificates of merit, and design awards to schools that enter productions for regional response and adjudication. Barton Theatre plans to enter its fall 2026 production for consideration.

For more information about Barton’s theatre program or upcoming productions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://theatre.bartonccc.edu/" target="_blank">theatre.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772582898655.jpeg" alt="(From Left) Barton Theatre Students Rose Clement, Jordan McKenzie, and Anna Bitter pose for a photo at the American College Theatre Festival in Rochester, Minn." />
 <figcaption>(From Left) Barton Theatre Students Rose Clement, Jordan McKenzie, and Anna Bitter pose for a photo at the American College Theatre Festival in Rochester, Minn.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE VINDUSKA BCCThis January, Barton Theatre students Anna Bitter, Rose Clement, and Jordan McKenzie, along with faculty member Jack Greenwood, represented Barton as they traveled to Rochester, Minn., to participate in the American College Theatre Festival.Each year, the festival invites theatre students and faculty to a weeklong regional conference featuring workshops, professional development, networking opportunities, auditions, interviews for theatre companies, and productions from participating schools. Barton is part of region five, which includes Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Missouri, and Minnesota.While attending the conference, all three students participated in workshops covering acting, costuming, stage management, sound design, playwriting, and more. Each also auditioned for professional theatre companies and received callbacks, potentially leading to summer employment.Bitter advanced to the next round of callbacks for Balladeer Theatre Company in Kansas City. Clement and McKenzie received callbacks for Emporia State University’s Summer Theatre program.Bitter said attending the festival helped broaden her understanding of the field.“I enjoyed every opportunity I had while I was there,” she said. “I learned so much about the career I want to go into and other career opportunities I didn’t even know about in theater. I got to meet professionals who taught me various skills. I even auditioned for a paid acting job over the summer, which I am still in consideration for. It was so much fun and opened up new doors for me.”Other highlights included Bitter participating in a film acting workshop with Spencer Kramber, a former actor on the television series Criminal Minds. McKenzie competed in a costume intensive on a team that created a new costume using only fabric and pins. The design earned a student choice award. Clement attended multiple stage management workshops and plans to apply her training as a stage manager for the upcoming production of “SpongeBob the Musical.”All three students attended productions from other schools and connected with representatives from four-year colleges regarding potential transfer opportunities.Greenwood is in his first year of instruction at Barton, and he organized the trip after recognizing the value of the festival experience.“The festival was where I realized a career in the arts wasn’t just worthwhile, it was necessary,” he said. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today without going to the festival as a student, and I’m happy to share this opportunity with Barton Theatre students.”The annual festival also awards scholarships, certificates of merit, and design awards to schools that enter productions for regional response and adjudication. Barton Theatre plans to enter its fall 2026 production for consideration.For more information about Barton’s theatre program or upcoming productions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://theatre.bartonccc.edu/" target="_blank">theatre.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Theatre expands student opportunities through American College Theatre Festival

K-State Crop Talk webinars have been available for farmers
since Feb. 10 of this year. The webinars run from noon to 1 p.m. each Tuesday,
with the final webinar airing on March 10. Stacy Campbell, crop production
agent in the Cottonwood Extension District in Barton and Ellis counties, said
it’s easy to participate.

“You can register for them, and you only have to do it once,
then you will receive an email with the Zoom and YouTube link,” he said. “If
you happen to miss it, you can go back and listen to the recording and view the
presenter’s slides as well.”

Topics this year have included understanding flex leases,
available soil water, and fungicide applications in corn and sorghum. 

“The last Crop Talk webinar will be on March 10, with Anthony
Zukoff, Extension entomologist, highlighting insects to watch for in
the field this growing season. To register, just do an internet search for the KSU
Crop Talk webinar, and the link should pull up.”

The webinars are primarily for growers in Central, North
Central, and Northwest areas and counties of Kansas. The information is
presented by Extension agents in those counties. <a href="http://www.bit.ly/KSUCropTalk">CLICK HERE</a> to register for the March 10 webinar.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744425566448.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostK-State Crop Talk webinars have been available for farmers
since Feb. 10 of this year. The webinars run from noon to 1 p.m. each Tuesday,
with the final webinar airing on March 10. Stacy Campbell, crop production
agent in the Cottonwood Extension District in Barton and Ellis counties, said
it’s easy to participate.“You can register for them, and you only have to do it once,
then you will receive an email with the Zoom and YouTube link,” he said. “If
you happen to miss it, you can go back and listen to the recording and view the
presenter’s slides as well.”Topics this year have included understanding flex leases,
available soil water, and fungicide applications in corn and sorghum. “The last Crop Talk webinar will be on March 10, with Anthony
Zukoff, Extension entomologist, highlighting insects to watch for in
the field this growing season. To register, just do an internet search for the KSU
Crop Talk webinar, and the link should pull up.”The webinars are primarily for growers in Central, North
Central, and Northwest areas and counties of Kansas. The information is
presented by Extension agents in those counties. <a href="http://www.bit.ly/KSUCropTalk">CLICK HERE</a> to register for the March 10 webinar.

Season finale: Final K-State Crop Talk for area farmers scheduled for March 10

News from the Oil Patch, Mar. 3 By John P. Tretbar

Crude oil prices race to the skies, with fuel prices hot on their heels.&nbsp; Oil prices in New York vaulted more than six percent by dinner time on Monday and another seven percent by lunchtime on Tuesday. Offers on Tuesday ranged up to a high just under $78 a barrel, which would be a 19% increase over a week ago. Brent crude is also bounding, up ten percent in two days to just under $83 a barrel by tea time Tuesday.

Fuel prices jumped eleven cents in one day nationwide to $3.10 per gallon. Kansas pump prices jump nearly 13 cents to just under $2.70/gal. Diesel prices are up 17 cents from a week ago across the state ($3.525) and across the nation ($3.891).

A technical glitch that halted trading on expiry day sends a brief shock through the futures marketplace. The CME Group's Globex electronic trading platform went dark for some metals and all natural-gas futures last Wednesday. The company confirmed a full trading halt shortly after noon, its third significant breakdown in the last year. What the firm described as a "technical glitch" happened on expiry day, when futures contracts expire. Trading was halted and some orders were simply canceled at a time when many futures traders traditionally roll positions over into the next month. Despite the chaos, or perhaps because of it, natural gas prices settled nearly two percent higher. &nbsp;

The government reports the largest increase in crude-oil inventories in nearly six years. Commercial stockpiles increased 16 million barrels to just under 436 million. That's up nearly six million barrels from a year ago, but The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles remain about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Strategic reserves are unchanged this week at just over 415 million barrels, up five percent from a year ago. Gasoline stockpiles were down slightly, while diesel fuel inventories rose. The government says demand for each is up slightly this week.

Refined petroleum product imports rose more than half a million daily barrels, surpassing two million barrels a day for the first time since last September. That marks a 40% increase from last week, a 22% &nbsp;bump over a year ago, and a 47% increase over two years ago. Petroleum product exports dipped by 350,000 barrels a day.

Crude imports increased slightly to just over 6,6 million barrels a day. The four-week average is up five percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude oil exports dropped by about a quarter million barrels a day to just over 4.3 million. The four-week average remains over four million.

US regulators last week released the final monthly oil production report for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Kansas output in December averaged just under 68,000 barrels per day, down from just over 68,000 in November.&nbsp; For the year, the Sunflower State averaged just over 69-thousand barrels per day. That's down more than 4,000 barrels a day from the year before, according to the latest data from EIA.

Texas produced 5.7 million barrels per day last year. That's up more than half a million barrels a day from the year before and accounts for more than 41 percent of output nationwide. EIA reports New Mexico finished the year at 2.24 million barrels day, an increase of nearly a quarter million daily barrels. The report from North Dakota dropped slightly to 1.15 million barrels a day in annual output last year. Regulators in North Dakota report a steeper drop in output in December.

Operators in Kansas have drilled 69 wells from spud to completion this year, down 43% from the tally of 121 a year ago. Total footage drilled lags behind last year by 59%.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service reports oilfield activity remains sluggish, down an average of 46% from a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count is unchanged from last week with three active rigs east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas. That's down 38 percent from a month ago and 46 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Rooks and Finney County, and was about to begin on a lease in Gove County.

Regulators report 36 new intent-to-drill notices across the state of Kansas, for a total of 78 so far this year. That's down from 119 by the end of February last year and 144 the year before that. The search engine on the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns ten new intent-to-drill notices in Linn County, and five in Rooks County. Stafford County adds two. Gove and Finney counties each add one.

Kansas regulators okayed seven new drilling sites this week, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Rooks County and two in Graham County. That's 60 new permits this year, compared to 109 last year at this time.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four completions this week, all in the eastern half of the state, with one in Johnson County, and three in Woodson County. That's 108 completions this calendar year, compared to 211 last year at this time.

US crude production this week drops slightly, due largely to a weather outage in Alaska, but remains over 13.7 million barrels a day for a third week in a row. Production over the last four weeks averages just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Cumulative output so far this year is over 13.6 million, an increase of 1.5% from a year ago.

US regulators last week released the final monthly oil-production tally for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes increases by one gas rig, but drops by two oil rigs, for a total of 550 rigs. That's down 43 drilling rigs from last year at this time. The tally in the prolific Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico is 240 rigs, up one for the week but down 65 rigs from a year ago.

In the decade since our first exports of Liquefied Natural Gas, the United States has gone from 500 Million cubic feet per day in 2016, to over 15 billion cubic feet per day last year. Today, the US is the world’s largest LNG exporter, ahead of both Australia and Qatar. The Energy Information Administration now forecasts US exports over 18 billion cubic feet per day by the end of next year.

A major winter cold snap cuts into oil and gas production in North Dakota, the number-three US producer. The Department of Mineral Resources reports a six-percent drop in December oil output, and a six percent in drop in natural gas. Oil output dips to 34.7 million barrels, or 1.12 Million barrels per day. That's down 76,000 barrels a day from the month before. The number of producing wells in North Dakota continues to drop from the all-time high reached in October, dipping another 172 wells in December. The number of inactive wells rose by more than six hundred. &nbsp;

North Dakota natural gas production dropped six percent. The amount of gas that was flared, or burned off at the well head, is down nine percent. The gas-capture rate, the amount of gas captured on site and marketed, held steady at 95.2%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574803826328.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Mar. 3 By John P. TretbarCrude oil prices race to the skies, with fuel prices hot on their heels.&nbsp; Oil prices in New York vaulted more than six percent by dinner time on Monday and another seven percent by lunchtime on Tuesday. Offers on Tuesday ranged up to a high just under $78 a barrel, which would be a 19% increase over a week ago. Brent crude is also bounding, up ten percent in two days to just under $83 a barrel by tea time Tuesday.Fuel prices jumped eleven cents in one day nationwide to $3.10 per gallon. Kansas pump prices jump nearly 13 cents to just under $2.70/gal. Diesel prices are up 17 cents from a week ago across the state ($3.525) and across the nation ($3.891).A technical glitch that halted trading on expiry day sends a brief shock through the futures marketplace. The CME Group's Globex electronic trading platform went dark for some metals and all natural-gas futures last Wednesday. The company confirmed a full trading halt shortly after noon, its third significant breakdown in the last year. What the firm described as a "technical glitch" happened on expiry day, when futures contracts expire. Trading was halted and some orders were simply canceled at a time when many futures traders traditionally roll positions over into the next month. Despite the chaos, or perhaps because of it, natural gas prices settled nearly two percent higher. &nbsp;The government reports the largest increase in crude-oil inventories in nearly six years. Commercial stockpiles increased 16 million barrels to just under 436 million. That's up nearly six million barrels from a year ago, but The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles remain about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Strategic reserves are unchanged this week at just over 415 million barrels, up five percent from a year ago. Gasoline stockpiles were down slightly, while diesel fuel inventories rose. The government says demand for each is up slightly this week.Refined petroleum product imports rose more than half a million daily barrels, surpassing two million barrels a day for the first time since last September. That marks a 40% increase from last week, a 22% &nbsp;bump over a year ago, and a 47% increase over two years ago. Petroleum product exports dipped by 350,000 barrels a day.Crude imports increased slightly to just over 6,6 million barrels a day. The four-week average is up five percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude oil exports dropped by about a quarter million barrels a day to just over 4.3 million. The four-week average remains over four million.US regulators last week released the final monthly oil production report for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Kansas output in December averaged just under 68,000 barrels per day, down from just over 68,000 in November.&nbsp; For the year, the Sunflower State averaged just over 69-thousand barrels per day. That's down more than 4,000 barrels a day from the year before, according to the latest data from EIA.Texas produced 5.7 million barrels per day last year. That's up more than half a million barrels a day from the year before and accounts for more than 41 percent of output nationwide. EIA reports New Mexico finished the year at 2.24 million barrels day, an increase of nearly a quarter million daily barrels. The report from North Dakota dropped slightly to 1.15 million barrels a day in annual output last year. Regulators in North Dakota report a steeper drop in output in December.Operators in Kansas have drilled 69 wells from spud to completion this year, down 43% from the tally of 121 a year ago. Total footage drilled lags behind last year by 59%.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service reports oilfield activity remains sluggish, down an average of 46% from a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count is unchanged from last week with three active rigs east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas. That's down 38 percent from a month ago and 46 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Rooks and Finney County, and was about to begin on a lease in Gove County.Regulators report 36 new intent-to-drill notices across the state of Kansas, for a total of 78 so far this year. That's down from 119 by the end of February last year and 144 the year before that. The search engine on the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns ten new intent-to-drill notices in Linn County, and five in Rooks County. Stafford County adds two. Gove and Finney counties each add one.Kansas regulators okayed seven new drilling sites this week, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Rooks County and two in Graham County. That's 60 new permits this year, compared to 109 last year at this time.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four completions this week, all in the eastern half of the state, with one in Johnson County, and three in Woodson County. That's 108 completions this calendar year, compared to 211 last year at this time.US crude production this week drops slightly, due largely to a weather outage in Alaska, but remains over 13.7 million barrels a day for a third week in a row. Production over the last four weeks averages just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Cumulative output so far this year is over 13.6 million, an increase of 1.5% from a year ago.US regulators last week released the final monthly oil-production tally for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes increases by one gas rig, but drops by two oil rigs, for a total of 550 rigs. That's down 43 drilling rigs from last year at this time. The tally in the prolific Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico is 240 rigs, up one for the week but down 65 rigs from a year ago.In the decade since our first exports of Liquefied Natural Gas, the United States has gone from 500 Million cubic feet per day in 2016, to over 15 billion cubic feet per day last year. Today, the US is the world’s largest LNG exporter, ahead of both Australia and Qatar. The Energy Information Administration now forecasts US exports over 18 billion cubic feet per day by the end of next year.A major winter cold snap cuts into oil and gas production in North Dakota, the number-three US producer. The Department of Mineral Resources reports a six-percent drop in December oil output, and a six percent in drop in natural gas. Oil output dips to 34.7 million barrels, or 1.12 Million barrels per day. That's down 76,000 barrels a day from the month before. The number of producing wells in North Dakota continues to drop from the all-time high reached in October, dipping another 172 wells in December. The number of inactive wells rose by more than six hundred. &nbsp;North Dakota natural gas production dropped six percent. The amount of gas that was flared, or burned off at the well head, is down nine percent. The gas-capture rate, the amount of gas captured on site and marketed, held steady at 95.2%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude, pump prices skyrocket

Booked Flores-Cabrales, Yahir on Barton County District Court case #26-33 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving while suspended and Max Speed. Bond set at $2,500.00.

Released Flores-Cabrales, Yahir on Barton County District Court case #26-33 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving while suspended and Max Speed with a surety bond of $2500.00 through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>3/3</h2>Booked Flores-Cabrales, Yahir on Barton County District Court case #26-33 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving while suspended and Max Speed. Bond set at $2,500.00.Released Flores-Cabrales, Yahir on Barton County District Court case #26-33 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving while suspended and Max Speed with a surety bond of $2500.00 through Ace Bail Bonding.Released Houp, Annissia on Barton County District Court Warrant #BT2025CR0433 for contempt of Court. Great Bend Municipal Court case #202500462 for Failure to Appear, Great Bend Municipal Court case #202500270 for Failure to Appear, and Wilson County District Court Warrant #W12025CR000112 for Failure to Appear, and Interference with LEO. Transferred to Wilson County.Booked in Adams, Dontae L. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0187 for Probation Violation with bond set at No Bond.Booked in Dominguez, Ismael III on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2024CR0384 for Serve Sentence, bond set at NO BOND.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770904269445.png" alt="Your Ad Here! Call 620-792-3647" />
 <figcaption>Your Ad Here! Call 620-792-3647</figcaption>
 </figure>