By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Many with pets treat their furry friends like a child. That relationship extends to much larger, wild animals who make their homes in zoos. On Monday, staff at Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend suffered their own unexpected loss with the death of 10-year-old grizzly, Winnie. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said the loss hit staff hard.

"We spend more time with these guys than we do with our families, so it's definitely like losing a pet or even a member of your family if you're that attached to your animals, which we are," she said. "This is especially hard because it was very unexpected, and it happened really fast."

Staff began to suspect something might be wrong on Saturday as Winnie's eating slowed. But that's not unusual in the winter when grizzlies in the wild are hibernating. On Sunday, staff tried to give Winnie electrolytes and something to eat to give him an energy boost. But Monday morning, it was too late. Winnie died at some point during the overnight hours.

"You can tell when they're off, but animals, especially wild animals, are really good at hiding when something's wrong with them," Burdick said. "So you don't often know until it's already too late to do anything."

Winnie was one of four grizzly bears at the zoo: 30-year-old Max, and Winnie's two siblings, Piglet and Pooh. Burdick described Winnie as more laid back than the others, though he did have his sassy moments. He was more apt just go along with his siblings.

Following a death at the zoo, veterinarians perform a necropsy on the animal, which is the equivalent of a human autopsy. Preliminary indications are that Winnie died from gastric torsion, which is a twisting of the stomach. In Winnie's case, the stomach was twisted almost all the way, cutting off blood supply to other parts of the digestive system. He was likely unable to eliminate waste. 

Beyond that, Winnie appeared to be a healthy grizzly. Wild bears in the lower 48 states typically weigh between 400 and 600 pounds. Burdick said Winnie weighed 650 pounds during his last physical in the spring of 2022, likely adding another 50 pounds during the fall months. 

Because of his size, veterinarians and staff collected samples during the necropsy to be submitted to a laboratory at Kansas State University. Also because of his large size, staff will bury Winnie locally.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673979341910.jpeg" alt="Brit Spaugh Zoo's 10-year-old grizzly, Winnie, died unexpectedly on Jan. 16." />
 <figcaption>Brit Spaugh Zoo's 10-year-old grizzly, Winnie, died unexpectedly on Jan. 16.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMany with pets treat their furry friends like a child. That relationship extends to much larger, wild animals who make their homes in zoos. On Monday, staff at Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend suffered their own unexpected loss with the death of 10-year-old grizzly, Winnie. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said the loss hit staff hard."We spend more time with these guys than we do with our families, so it's definitely like losing a pet or even a member of your family if you're that attached to your animals, which we are," she said. "This is especially hard because it was very unexpected, and it happened really fast."Staff began to suspect something might be wrong on Saturday as Winnie's eating slowed. But that's not unusual in the winter when grizzlies in the wild are hibernating. On Sunday, staff tried to give Winnie electrolytes and something to eat to give him an energy boost. But Monday morning, it was too late. Winnie died at some point during the overnight hours."You can tell when they're off, but animals, especially wild animals, are really good at hiding when something's wrong with them," Burdick said. "So you don't often know until it's already too late to do anything."Winnie was one of four grizzly bears at the zoo: 30-year-old Max, and Winnie's two siblings, Piglet and Pooh. Burdick described Winnie as more laid back than the others, though he did have his sassy moments. He was more apt just go along with his siblings.Following a death at the zoo, veterinarians perform a necropsy on the animal, which is the equivalent of a human autopsy. Preliminary indications are that Winnie died from gastric torsion, which is a twisting of the stomach. In Winnie's case, the stomach was twisted almost all the way, cutting off blood supply to other parts of the digestive system. He was likely unable to eliminate waste. Beyond that, Winnie appeared to be a healthy grizzly. Wild bears in the lower 48 states typically weigh between 400 and 600 pounds. Burdick said Winnie weighed 650 pounds during his last physical in the spring of 2022, likely adding another 50 pounds during the fall months. Because of his size, veterinarians and staff collected samples during the necropsy to be submitted to a laboratory at Kansas State University. Also because of his large size, staff will bury Winnie locally.

Death of Great Bend bear highlights zookeeper-animal relationships

Today Rain and possibly a thunderstorm before noon, then a chance of rain and thunderstorms between noon and 1 p.m., then a slight chance of rain after 1 p.m. High near 40. East wind 10 to 15 mph becoming west-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Tonight A slight chance of rain and snow before 8 p.m., then a slight chance of snow between 8 and 9 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 23. Blustery, with a northwest wind 16 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 43. Breezy, with a northwest wind 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 11 to 16 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 21. North-northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light northwest after midnight.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Light and variable wind becoming east 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

Friday Night A 30-percent chance of snow after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25.

Saturday A 50-percent chance of snow. Cloudy, with a high near 36.

Saturday Night A 50-percent chance of snow, mainly before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 18.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 40.

Sunday Night A slight chance of snow between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 21. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Monday A 20-percent chance of snow. Mostly sunny, with a high near 39.

Monday Night A 20-percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.

Tuesday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 39.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Rain and possibly a thunderstorm before noon, then a chance of rain and thunderstorms between noon and 1 p.m., then a slight chance of rain after 1 p.m. High near 40. East wind 10 to 15 mph becoming west-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.Tonight A slight chance of rain and snow before 8 p.m., then a slight chance of snow between 8 and 9 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 23. Blustery, with a northwest wind 16 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 43. Breezy, with a northwest wind 18 to 23 mph decreasing to 11 to 16 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 21. North-northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light northwest after midnight.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Light and variable wind becoming east 5 to 7 mph in the morning.Friday Night A 30-percent chance of snow after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25.Saturday A 50-percent chance of snow. Cloudy, with a high near 36.Saturday Night A 50-percent chance of snow, mainly before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 18.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 40.Sunday Night A slight chance of snow between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 21. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Monday A 20-percent chance of snow. Mostly sunny, with a high near 39.Monday Night A 20-percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.Tuesday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 39.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's Weather

TOPEKA —&nbsp;Thirty-two Kansas educators are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2023 Kansas Horizon Award program.

The 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were recently announced by the Kansas State Department of Education.

The educators will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network State Education Conference on Feb. 17 in Topeka.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.

Recipients of the 2023 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

“We are fortunate to have such outstanding teachers in our state’s classrooms,” Watson said. “I want to commend all 32 Horizon Award recipients. Because of them, we move closer to our vision of leading the world in the success of each student.”

The 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipients, along with their regions, are listed below:

2023 KANSAS HORIZON AWARD RECIPIENTS

As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join KEEN, a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

KSDETOPEKA —&nbsp;Thirty-two Kansas educators are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2023 Kansas Horizon Award program.The 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were recently announced by the Kansas State Department of Education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673982204902.jpeg" alt="Volk teaches music at Russell USD 407." />
 <figcaption>Volk teaches music at Russell USD 407.</figcaption>
 </figure>The educators will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network State Education Conference on Feb. 17 in Topeka.The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.Recipients of the 2023 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.“We are fortunate to have such outstanding teachers in our state’s classrooms,” Watson said. “I want to commend all 32 Horizon Award recipients. Because of them, we move closer to our vision of leading the world in the success of each student.”The 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipients, along with their regions, are listed below:2023 KANSAS HORIZON AWARD RECIPIENTSRegion 1<ul>
 <li>Kaisha Batman, Dodge City High School, Dodge City Unified School District 443.</li><li>Monica Blanco, Dodge City Middle School, Dodge City USD 443.</li><li>Derek Davidson, Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.</li><li>Anne Kenworthy, Rock Creek Middle School, Rock Creek USD 323.</li><li>Sally Lopez, Oliver Brown Elementary School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.</li><li>Ashley Sides, Prairie Hills Middle School, Buhler USD 313.</li><li>Andrew Thiesen, Garden City High School, Garden City USD 457.</li><li>Kinsey Volk, Bickerdyke Elementary School, Russell USD 407.</li>
 </ul>Region 2<ul>
 <li><a>Julia Ferguson, Quail Run Elementary School, Lawrence USD 497.</a></li><li><a>Heidi Jo Hayen, Berryton Elementary School, Shawnee Heights USD 450</a>.</li><li><a>Madeline Lane, Lansing High School, Lansing USD 469</a>.</li><li><a>Emma Lehmann, Neodesha High School, Neodesha USD 461</a>.</li><li><a>Hannah Lucas, Humboldt Elementary School, Humboldt USD 258</a>.</li><li><a>Megan Maness, French Middle School, Topeka USD 501.</a></li><li><a>DeLaney Russell, Dr. Jerry Hamm Early Learning Center, Coffeyville USD 445.</a></li><li><a>William Wehrs, Seaman High School, Seaman USD 345</a>.</li>
 </ul>Region 3<ul>
 <li><a>Cooper Allison, Woodland Spring Middle School, Spring Hill USD 230</a>.</li><li><a>Jordyn Burke, Corinth Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512</a>.</li><li><a>Jordan Dillon, Blue Valley High School, Blue Valley USD 229</a>.</li><li><a>Lisa Frakes, Turner High School, Turner USD 202</a>.</li><li><a>Alexandra Furminger, Oak Grove Elementary School, Turner USD 202</a>.</li><li><a>Jennifer Miller, Nike Elementary School, Gardner Edgerton USD 231</a>.</li><li><a>Stephanie Ruley, Gardner Edgerton High School, Gardner Edgerton USD 231.</a></li><li><a>Sydney Sieben, Riverview Elementary School, De Soto USD 232</a>.</li>
 </ul>Region 4<ul>
 <li><a>Sue Ake, Gordon Parks Academy, Wichita USD 259</a>.</li><li><a>Kassady Griffin, Eisenhower High School, Goddard USD 265</a>.</li><li><a>Cody Kirkendoll, Campus High School, Haysville USD 261</a>.</li><li><a>Rochell Knight, Derby Middle School, Derby USD 260</a>.</li><li><a>Carla McConnell, Sunset Elementary School, Newton USD 373</a>.</li><li><a>Aaron Miller, Valley Center Middle School, Valley Center USD 262</a>.</li><li><a>Jamie Rhue, El Paso Elementary School, Derby USD 260</a>.</li><li><a>Erin Walter, Norwich Elementary School, Kingman-Norwich USD 331</a>.</li>
 </ul>As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join KEEN, a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell teacher among 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipients

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Kansas Farm Bureau had a good 2022 as evidenced by the Pinnacle and New Horizon awards it received at the American Farm Bureau’s 104th convention recently. The Pinnacle award is the highest honor a state Farm Bureau can earn for program and membership achievement. KFB received the New Horizon award, which highlights innovative new programs, for the Casten Fellows Program, developed to honor the life of staffer Jill Casten-Downing through leadership development and international travel. The honors are well deserved, and it’s nice to take a few minutes to appreciate the amount of work required to go from the initial idea to implementation and execution. The destination is important, but so is the journey. There’s no shortage of challenges today in agriculture, as evidenced by just some of the ongoing work from last year, like KFB’s End Hunger campaign to ensure all our state’s residents have access to the food they need. From Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, individuals and businesses contributed more than $50,000 toward the campaign. That money will go to innovative programs run by county Farm Bureaus to address the needs they’ve identified locally. By no way is this problem solved, but progress is being made. Next year’s goal is to raise $75,000. Another ongoing project includes KFB’s purchase of Shop Kansas Farms (SKF) which allows our farm and ranch members to reach consumers in a new way. SKF founder Rick McNary is also helping communities develop local food systems to capture the full economic value from farm gates to dinner plates. Announced late last year, the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program will really get rolling in 2023 as the state’s first ever initiative to match agriculturists and rural business owners with a structured plan to train and retain employees. It’s not a silver bullet for the lack of help available in rural areas, but it’s the beginning of addressing a skills gap to meet our current and future workforce needs. As always, KFB will continue to ensure the voices of farmers and ranchers are heard in Topeka with a special focus on three topics: water, taxes and broadband. KFB will continue to support the basic tenets of Kansas water law, which have provided our members the ability to plan, invest and defend their private property rights for decades. KFB policy also supports the development of a Kansas Water Plan, either through the state general fund or dedicated statewide revenue sources. Any redesign of tax structures comes with the potential to shift taxes from one source to another with significant consequences. KFB will continue to steadfastly advocate for the constitutionally required use-value system that accurately and appropriately values agricultural lands and provides stable tax revenues to local units of government. Agricultural operations are businesses, and they should receive fair and equal tax treatment as it pertains to sales tax exemptions. Access to a vibrant, high-speed broadband network is essential to the future of both rural and urban Kansas. Statewide broadband deployment will provide new opportunities for the delivery of healthcare, education, entertainment, business development and enhance the capabilities of precision agriculture. Efforts by the state to facilitate telecommunications connectivity throughout Kansas should consider the technology-dependent nature of the agriculture industry, and its significant impact on the Kansas economy. For those paying attention, this isn’t a new list, and there’s a good chance it will be similar in 2024. There will be advancements on some fronts and setbacks on others. The key is stick to your priorities and have the patience to withstand the mundane and incremental nature of progress.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Kansas Farm Bureau had a good 2022 as evidenced by the Pinnacle and New Horizon awards it received at the American Farm Bureau’s 104th convention recently. The Pinnacle award is the highest honor a state Farm Bureau can earn for program and membership achievement. KFB received the New Horizon award, which highlights innovative new programs, for the Casten Fellows Program, developed to honor the life of staffer Jill Casten-Downing through leadership development and international travel. The honors are well deserved, and it’s nice to take a few minutes to appreciate the amount of work required to go from the initial idea to implementation and execution. The destination is important, but so is the journey. There’s no shortage of challenges today in agriculture, as evidenced by just some of the ongoing work from last year, like KFB’s End Hunger campaign to ensure all our state’s residents have access to the food they need. From Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, individuals and businesses contributed more than $50,000 toward the campaign. That money will go to innovative programs run by county Farm Bureaus to address the needs they’ve identified locally. By no way is this problem solved, but progress is being made. Next year’s goal is to raise $75,000. Another ongoing project includes KFB’s purchase of Shop Kansas Farms (SKF) which allows our farm and ranch members to reach consumers in a new way. SKF founder Rick McNary is also helping communities develop local food systems to capture the full economic value from farm gates to dinner plates. Announced late last year, the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program will really get rolling in 2023 as the state’s first ever initiative to match agriculturists and rural business owners with a structured plan to train and retain employees. It’s not a silver bullet for the lack of help available in rural areas, but it’s the beginning of addressing a skills gap to meet our current and future workforce needs. As always, KFB will continue to ensure the voices of farmers and ranchers are heard in Topeka with a special focus on three topics: water, taxes and broadband. KFB will continue to support the basic tenets of Kansas water law, which have provided our members the ability to plan, invest and defend their private property rights for decades. KFB policy also supports the development of a Kansas Water Plan, either through the state general fund or dedicated statewide revenue sources. Any redesign of tax structures comes with the potential to shift taxes from one source to another with significant consequences. KFB will continue to steadfastly advocate for the constitutionally required use-value system that accurately and appropriately values agricultural lands and provides stable tax revenues to local units of government. Agricultural operations are businesses, and they should receive fair and equal tax treatment as it pertains to sales tax exemptions. Access to a vibrant, high-speed broadband network is essential to the future of both rural and urban Kansas. Statewide broadband deployment will provide new opportunities for the delivery of healthcare, education, entertainment, business development and enhance the capabilities of precision agriculture. Efforts by the state to facilitate telecommunications connectivity throughout Kansas should consider the technology-dependent nature of the agriculture industry, and its significant impact on the Kansas economy. For those paying attention, this isn’t a new list, and there’s a good chance it will be similar in 2024. There will be advancements on some fronts and setbacks on others. The key is stick to your priorities and have the patience to withstand the mundane and incremental nature of progress."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: 2023 priorities for agriculture

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3VqZdZv. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting January 18, 2023 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 9, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devises. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: 13th Month: &nbsp; &nbsp;-An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of December 21, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022. This is considered the first “13th Month” for 2022 expenditures.

III. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of January 1, 2023, and ending January 18, 2023.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. APPRAISER’S OFFICE: Bulk Mailing – Valuation Notices: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details on this item. The Appraiser’s Office invited Request for Proposals for the mass mailing of 2023 real estate valuation notices. Work involves the creation of valuation notices, mailing labels and envelopes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. BARTON COUNTY EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK: Addition of Policy 110, DOJ / OVW Funding – Interaction with Minors: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Beginning in Calendar Year 2019, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) incorporated by referenced a determination of suitability required, in advance, for certain individuals who many interact with participating minors. Generally, those programs funded through the Department of Justice and / or the Office on Violence Against Women, would require initial and reexamination of employees for sex offender, criminal history and child abuse and neglect registrations.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. OCCUPANCY AGREEMENTS: 1806 – 12th, Great Bend: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. As a means of community support, the Central Kansas Partnership, Inc., Rise Up HEART (Health Equity Action Recovery Team) program is being housed in the office building at 1213 Baker, Great Bend. The program will pay the County a four hundred dollar per month rental fee for use of the office space, internet and parking.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. FIRE DISTRICT NO. 2: Appointment of a Board of Trustees: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. Per Resolution 2018-10, which created Fire District No. 2, the members of the Fire District Board of Trustees shall consist of not more than one (1) appointee from each participating township and not more than one (1) from each participating city. The City of Susank and North Homestead and South Homestead Townships remain open. All positions expire December 31, 2024.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. REVISION OF THE 2022 / 2023 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. At this time, the Commission will be asked to recategorize one regular part-time position for the Operations / Facilities Department to full-time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. DISCUSSION: Kansas Association of Counties New Commission Orientation: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Commissioner Barb Esfeld will lead the discussion. The Commission had the opportunity to attend the Kansas Association of Counties 2023 New Commissioners Orientation on January 11 – 13, 2023, in Topeka. Included were Commission duties, public service and financial obligations.

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

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

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Personnel – Karen Winkelman, Health Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Neighborhood Revitalization Program – Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Overview – Doug Hubbard, Fire District No. 1.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Supplemental Inspection Services – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – The County accepted bids for the Barton County Courthouse Improvement Project until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 18, 2023. The Commission will attend the bid opening in the County Clerk’s Office, 1400 Main, Room 202, Great Bend, Kansas. The Commission will then return to Chambers and discuss.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Sheriff Brian Bellendir is scheduled for January 19, 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 25, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619186644580.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3VqZdZv. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting January 18, 2023 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 9, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devises. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: 13th Month: &nbsp; &nbsp;-An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of December 21, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022. This is considered the first “13th Month” for 2022 expenditures.III. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of January 1, 2023, and ending January 18, 2023.IV. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.V. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. APPRAISER’S OFFICE: Bulk Mailing – Valuation Notices: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details on this item. The Appraiser’s Office invited Request for Proposals for the mass mailing of 2023 real estate valuation notices. Work involves the creation of valuation notices, mailing labels and envelopes.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. BARTON COUNTY EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK: Addition of Policy 110, DOJ / OVW Funding – Interaction with Minors: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Beginning in Calendar Year 2019, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) incorporated by referenced a determination of suitability required, in advance, for certain individuals who many interact with participating minors. Generally, those programs funded through the Department of Justice and / or the Office on Violence Against Women, would require initial and reexamination of employees for sex offender, criminal history and child abuse and neglect registrations.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. OCCUPANCY AGREEMENTS: 1806 – 12th, Great Bend: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. As a means of community support, the Central Kansas Partnership, Inc., Rise Up HEART (Health Equity Action Recovery Team) program is being housed in the office building at 1213 Baker, Great Bend. The program will pay the County a four hundred dollar per month rental fee for use of the office space, internet and parking.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. FIRE DISTRICT NO. 2: Appointment of a Board of Trustees: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. Per Resolution 2018-10, which created Fire District No. 2, the members of the Fire District Board of Trustees shall consist of not more than one (1) appointee from each participating township and not more than one (1) from each participating city. The City of Susank and North Homestead and South Homestead Townships remain open. All positions expire December 31, 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. REVISION OF THE 2022 / 2023 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. At this time, the Commission will be asked to recategorize one regular part-time position for the Operations / Facilities Department to full-time.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. DISCUSSION: Kansas Association of Counties New Commission Orientation: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Commissioner Barb Esfeld will lead the discussion. The Commission had the opportunity to attend the Kansas Association of Counties 2023 New Commissioners Orientation on January 11 – 13, 2023, in Topeka. Included were Commission duties, public service and financial obligations.&nbsp; &nbsp;G. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session), the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which regular session shall resume.VI. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Personnel – Karen Winkelman, Health Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Neighborhood Revitalization Program – Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Overview – Doug Hubbard, Fire District No. 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Supplemental Inspection Services – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – The County accepted bids for the Barton County Courthouse Improvement Project until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 18, 2023. The Commission will attend the bid opening in the County Clerk’s Office, 1400 Main, Room 202, Great Bend, Kansas. The Commission will then return to Chambers and discuss.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Sheriff Brian Bellendir is scheduled for January 19, 2023.VII. OTHER BUSINESS:&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 25, 2023.VIII. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (1/18)

The Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension will offer virtual workshops Feb. 6-19 to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The workshop series includes five online Lunch and Learn sessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Over the past two years, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, a food safety specialist with K-State Research and Extension and the University of Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s also important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to sell directly to the consumer or at the farmers’ market.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2022, more than 95 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;

KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Registration for the February workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMWorkshop" target="_blank">www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMWorkshop</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, contact Sammy Gleason, marketing manager for KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, at 785-564-6759, or by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov" target="_blank">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, and the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program, in addition to sponsorship by K-State Research and Extension and KDA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension will offer virtual workshops Feb. 6-19 to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The workshop series includes five online Lunch and Learn sessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Over the past two years, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, a food safety specialist with K-State Research and Extension and the University of Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s also important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to sell directly to the consumer or at the farmers’ market.”&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2022, more than 95 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;The dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Monday, Feb. 6, noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;– Accepting EBT/SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Tuesday, Feb. 7, noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;– Meat and poultry regulations: Kansas Value Added Meats Lab.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Wednesday, Feb. 8, noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;– Kansas sales tax information.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Thursday, Feb. 9, noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;– Food safety regulations; Kansas Value Added Foods Lab.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Friday, Feb. 10, noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;– Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition program.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration for the February workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMWorkshop" target="_blank">www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMWorkshop</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact Sammy Gleason, marketing manager for KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, at 785-564-6759, or by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov" target="_blank">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, and the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program, in addition to sponsorship by K-State Research and Extension and KDA.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Workshops for farmers wanting to sell directly to consumers

News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 16 John P. Tretbar

The operators of the Keystone Pipeline have updated their recovery numbers at the spill site in Washington County, Kansas. Workers had recovered 12,289 barrels of oil, and more than 32-thousand barrels of oil and water through Saturday January 14th, according to the company's Web site. TC Energy estimates about 14-thousand barrels of oil spilled when the pipeline ruptured last month. The entire system is operational now, with reduced pressure and other safety measures. In a consent order signed earlier this month the pipeline division of TC Energy agrees to pay any bills incurred by the government in its response to the Keystone spill. The company agrees to recover all spilled oil, all oil-contaminated soil and vegetation, and to contain the further spread of oil in Mill Creek. The Environmental Protection Agency will oversee the cleanup. Curtis Carey, EPA's Director of Public Affairs, said in an email response that discharging pollutants into protected waterways is a violation of the Clean Water Act. But, Carey says this agreement is part of EPA's regulatory enforcement process. Any penalties or injunctive relief would have to come from a separate, future enforcement action. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment last week announced the results of weekly water testing along Mill Creek following the oil spill December 8th. The tests show improvements, notably "...a decrease in the concentration of contaminants over time, and a downward trend in contaminants on the Little Blue River." &nbsp;KDHE says a stream advisory remains in effect for Mill Creek between the pipeline spill and the Little Blue River. Officials warn area residents not to come into contact or allow pets and livestock to contact the creek water. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70 a barrel after jumping a dollar-and-a-quarter on Friday. That's half a dollar less than the price on the first of January. Crude prices in New York posted six dollars gains last week, settling Friday at $79.86 per barrel for the benchmark contract. In morning trading Monday, the near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped below $79. London Brent was also slightly lower, with prices just over $84 per barrel. So far this year, 29 operators have drilled 40 wells across Kansas with total footage estimated just over 40-thousand feet. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is monitoring 489 new wells in various stages of drilling and completion. Drilling was underway on a lease in Barton County Friday, and operators in Ellis County were about to spud two new wells. Operators across the state completed 51 wells last week, 99 so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that includes 32 in Western Kansas, with one new completion in Barton County, three in Ellis County, and one in Stafford County, Kansas regulators okayed 29 new drilling locations across the state, 46 so far this year, including one new drilling permit each in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties. In a monthly energy analysis the government predicts a decline in future energy consumption, rising energy production and dramatically lower profit margins at US refineries. That could lead to a big drop in diesel prices. The EIA says pump prices for diesel could drop about forty cents a gallon by the end of this year and another half dollar by the end of next year. US crude inventories posted a dramatic increase last week. The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles increased by 19-million barrels to 439.6 million barrels as of January 6th. EIA says inventories are about one percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reported the best weekly US production tally since April of 2020. Operators pumped 12.248 million barrels per day in the week through January 6th. That's up nearly 200-thousand barrels from the week before and more than half a million barrels higher than a year ago. Crude imports averaged 6.4 million barrels per day last week, an increase of 637-thousand barrels per day from the week before. Imports are down about three percent from a year ago, based on the four-week average.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 16 John P. TretbarThe operators of the Keystone Pipeline have updated their recovery numbers at the spill site in Washington County, Kansas. Workers had recovered 12,289 barrels of oil, and more than 32-thousand barrels of oil and water through Saturday January 14th, according to the company's Web site. TC Energy estimates about 14-thousand barrels of oil spilled when the pipeline ruptured last month. The entire system is operational now, with reduced pressure and other safety measures. In a consent order signed earlier this month the pipeline division of TC Energy agrees to pay any bills incurred by the government in its response to the Keystone spill. The company agrees to recover all spilled oil, all oil-contaminated soil and vegetation, and to contain the further spread of oil in Mill Creek. The Environmental Protection Agency will oversee the cleanup. Curtis Carey, EPA's Director of Public Affairs, said in an email response that discharging pollutants into protected waterways is a violation of the Clean Water Act. But, Carey says this agreement is part of EPA's regulatory enforcement process. Any penalties or injunctive relief would have to come from a separate, future enforcement action. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment last week announced the results of weekly water testing along Mill Creek following the oil spill December 8th. The tests show improvements, notably "...a decrease in the concentration of contaminants over time, and a downward trend in contaminants on the Little Blue River." &nbsp;KDHE says a stream advisory remains in effect for Mill Creek between the pipeline spill and the Little Blue River. Officials warn area residents not to come into contact or allow pets and livestock to contact the creek water. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70 a barrel after jumping a dollar-and-a-quarter on Friday. That's half a dollar less than the price on the first of January. Crude prices in New York posted six dollars gains last week, settling Friday at $79.86 per barrel for the benchmark contract. In morning trading Monday, the near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped below $79. London Brent was also slightly lower, with prices just over $84 per barrel. So far this year, 29 operators have drilled 40 wells across Kansas with total footage estimated just over 40-thousand feet. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is monitoring 489 new wells in various stages of drilling and completion. Drilling was underway on a lease in Barton County Friday, and operators in Ellis County were about to spud two new wells. Operators across the state completed 51 wells last week, 99 so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that includes 32 in Western Kansas, with one new completion in Barton County, three in Ellis County, and one in Stafford County, Kansas regulators okayed 29 new drilling locations across the state, 46 so far this year, including one new drilling permit each in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties. In a monthly energy analysis the government predicts a decline in future energy consumption, rising energy production and dramatically lower profit margins at US refineries. That could lead to a big drop in diesel prices. The EIA says pump prices for diesel could drop about forty cents a gallon by the end of this year and another half dollar by the end of next year. US crude inventories posted a dramatic increase last week. The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles increased by 19-million barrels to 439.6 million barrels as of January 6th. EIA says inventories are about one percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reported the best weekly US production tally since April of 2020. Operators pumped 12.248 million barrels per day in the week through January 6th. That's up nearly 200-thousand barrels from the week before and more than half a million barrels higher than a year ago. Crude imports averaged 6.4 million barrels per day last week, an increase of 637-thousand barrels per day from the week before. Imports are down about three percent from a year ago, based on the four-week average.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: KDHE testing shows improvements around Keystone spill

The Shafer Art Gallery staff hosted a fun-filled afternoon for the Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of the Year nominees last Tuesday in the Gallery consisting of a personalized tour and an art project activity.

Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he was excited to show them some of the educational aspects of the Shafer Gallery. Specifically, the Glen and Elaine Mull Art Classroom Outreach Art Cart program, which allows Barnes and Associate Director Alyssa Bliven to travel to local schools to facilitate hands-on art learning in a variety of ways. The Art Cart was created using a generous gift from the Glen and Elaine Mull Family Donor Advised Fund through Golden Belt Community Foundation in 2016. “It is important that we connect with and honor our educators and make sure they know that the gallery and art centers in general are a resource for their students and curriculum that should not be overlooked, he said. “In accordance with our vision goals, promoting and supporting art awareness and providing arts education is key to the Shafer Gallery being a portal connecting Barton Community College with our community. We think of ourselves as more than a static repository of works of art but also as a living exploratory space where our visitors can experience both beautiful art and grow in understanding.”

Associate Gallery Director Alyssa Bliven said the main goal of the program is to inspire art making and creativity through a mini-gallery experience and show students what professional artwork looks like, how it is made, and how it functions as art. Students are able to see what is going on at the

Shafer gallery without leaving their classroom, and then engage in age-appropriate hands-on art making activities related to the exhibit.

“At the Shafer, we are all about education and what better way to do that than connecting with some of the best teachers in the area,” she said. “It was such an honor to share with them what I do with the Glen and Elaine Mull Art Cart and I am looking forward to visiting some of these teachers' classrooms in the near future.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673971627530.jpeg" alt="Teacher of the Year Nominees work on an art project in The Shafer Gallery last Tuesday on the Barton Campus." />
 <figcaption>Teacher of the Year Nominees work on an art project in The Shafer Gallery last Tuesday on the Barton Campus.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaThe Shafer Art Gallery staff hosted a fun-filled afternoon for the Kansas State Department of Education Teacher of the Year nominees last Tuesday in the Gallery consisting of a personalized tour and an art project activity.Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he was excited to show them some of the educational aspects of the Shafer Gallery. Specifically, the Glen and Elaine Mull Art Classroom Outreach Art Cart program, which allows Barnes and Associate Director Alyssa Bliven to travel to local schools to facilitate hands-on art learning in a variety of ways. The Art Cart was created using a generous gift from the Glen and Elaine Mull Family Donor Advised Fund through Golden Belt Community Foundation in 2016. “It is important that we connect with and honor our educators and make sure they know that the gallery and art centers in general are a resource for their students and curriculum that should not be overlooked, he said. “In accordance with our vision goals, promoting and supporting art awareness and providing arts education is key to the Shafer Gallery being a portal connecting Barton Community College with our community. We think of ourselves as more than a static repository of works of art but also as a living exploratory space where our visitors can experience both beautiful art and grow in understanding.”Associate Gallery Director Alyssa Bliven said the main goal of the program is to inspire art making and creativity through a mini-gallery experience and show students what professional artwork looks like, how it is made, and how it functions as art. Students are able to see what is going on at theShafer gallery without leaving their classroom, and then engage in age-appropriate hands-on art making activities related to the exhibit.“At the Shafer, we are all about education and what better way to do that than connecting with some of the best teachers in the area,” she said. “It was such an honor to share with them what I do with the Glen and Elaine Mull Art Cart and I am looking forward to visiting some of these teachers' classrooms in the near future.”

Teacher of the year nominees visit Barton's Shafer Art Gallery

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann is serving on the House Agriculture Committee again. That's important because this is a Farm Bill year.

"Our current Farm Bill, these are five-year bills, expires Sept. 30 of this year," Mann said. "Getting that right for agriculture and for rural Kansas will be incredibly important. We'll put a lot of effort and focus there. We have been and we'll continue to do that until we get that done."

The new Republican Agriculture Committee chair is&nbsp;Congressman Glenn "GT" Thompson from Pennsylvania. Thompson visited Kansas last year.

"We toured a farm, feedyard and ethanol plant and had some other meetings around the district," Mann said. "I enjoyed introducing him to our ag producers. I'm excited for the Ag committee under his leadership."

Mann is hoping to get a legislative hearing in the Farm Bill process brought to Kansas.

"I'm optimistic that we'll be able to have a field hearing in our state," Mann said. "That's not a promise, but that's something I'm working towards. We are not going to like the Farm Bill we get if we don't have ag producers input and stakeholder input in it. It's incredibly important to me and we've been meeting with people and listening to folks."

Mann is back out on his Big First town hall meeting tour this week.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann is serving on the House Agriculture Committee again. That's important because this is a Farm Bill year."Our current Farm Bill, these are five-year bills, expires Sept. 30 of this year," Mann said. "Getting that right for agriculture and for rural Kansas will be incredibly important. We'll put a lot of effort and focus there. We have been and we'll continue to do that until we get that done."The new Republican Agriculture Committee chair is&nbsp;Congressman Glenn "GT" Thompson from Pennsylvania. Thompson visited Kansas last year."We toured a farm, feedyard and ethanol plant and had some other meetings around the district," Mann said. "I enjoyed introducing him to our ag producers. I'm excited for the Ag committee under his leadership."Mann is hoping to get a legislative hearing in the Farm Bill process brought to Kansas."I'm optimistic that we'll be able to have a field hearing in our state," Mann said. "That's not a promise, but that's something I'm working towards. We are not going to like the Farm Bill we get if we don't have ag producers input and stakeholder input in it. It's incredibly important to me and we've been meeting with people and listening to folks."Mann is back out on his Big First town hall meeting tour this week.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mann is back on Ag committee

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

At last month’s Great Bend City Council meeting, the governing body delayed
the purchase of a $514,000 Vac-Con Combination truck for the Public Works
Department. The council stated they needed more time to research the large
expense. At Monday’s meeting, the board approved the purchase of the 2023 Freightliner
Combination truck from Red Equipment that can vacuum both wet and dry materials
and release water pressure to flush out debris lodged in a pipe, useful
equipment when dealing with water main breaks. 
Great Bend Utilities Superintendent Reuben Martin said Key Equipment &amp;
Supply provided a bid that was more than $12,000 cheaper, but the Public Works
Department liked the warranty, water pump and fan on the Red Equipment Vac-Con
better. "We can not complain about the trucks," said Martin. "That's not what this is. This is not a slight to one truck or the other. There are just a couple of things on the Vac-Con that our guys liked a little better. I take pretty heavy compensation for what my guys tell me about equipment. I'm standing out there on the side of the road while they're running the vehicle." 
Key Equipment does have a local service technician, but major repairs for both
the Red Equipment and Key Equipment trucks would need to go to Kansas City. 
Great Bend has two combination vacuum trucks, but the 2001 model is unusable
because the fan has delaminated. Martin said the 2016 model just had its
suspension repaired. "We are using the 2016 model strictly for sanitary sewer right now, that way there is no extra wear," said Martin. "It will only be used in emergency situations."

The city uses two vacuum trucks to clean city lines and sanitary sewer line cleaning. Great Bend annually cleans lift stations with one truck while the other is being utilized for normal cleaning. The combination trucks are used for hydro excavation to assist the water department in the event of main breaks. 
With the trade-in of the 2001 truck, the new price for the 2023 Vac-Con is
$504,216.50. The Public Works Department has FEMA reimbursement funds and
unencumbered money in the street/storm/sewer fund that would give the city a
down payment of $353,505.76. The council approved a 48-month, 4% interest lease
purchase agreement with First Kansas Bank to cover the remaining cost of
$150,710.74.&nbsp;

The annual payment to First Kansas Bank will be $41,576.95. The city is currently scheduling $40,000 annually to be put back in the Capital Outlay for a vacuum truck that will be used to pay the lease purchase annual payment.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670262114233.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt last month’s Great Bend City Council meeting, the governing body delayed
the purchase of a $514,000 Vac-Con Combination truck for the Public Works
Department. The council stated they needed more time to research the large
expense. At Monday’s meeting, the board approved the purchase of the 2023 Freightliner
Combination truck from Red Equipment that can vacuum both wet and dry materials
and release water pressure to flush out debris lodged in a pipe, useful
equipment when dealing with water main breaks. 
Great Bend Utilities Superintendent Reuben Martin said Key Equipment &amp;
Supply provided a bid that was more than $12,000 cheaper, but the Public Works
Department liked the warranty, water pump and fan on the Red Equipment Vac-Con
better. "We can not complain about the trucks," said Martin. "That's not what this is. This is not a slight to one truck or the other. There are just a couple of things on the Vac-Con that our guys liked a little better. I take pretty heavy compensation for what my guys tell me about equipment. I'm standing out there on the side of the road while they're running the vehicle." 
Key Equipment does have a local service technician, but major repairs for both
the Red Equipment and Key Equipment trucks would need to go to Kansas City. 
Great Bend has two combination vacuum trucks, but the 2001 model is unusable
because the fan has delaminated. Martin said the 2016 model just had its
suspension repaired. "We are using the 2016 model strictly for sanitary sewer right now, that way there is no extra wear," said Martin. "It will only be used in emergency situations."The city uses two vacuum trucks to clean city lines and sanitary sewer line cleaning. Great Bend annually cleans lift stations with one truck while the other is being utilized for normal cleaning. The combination trucks are used for hydro excavation to assist the water department in the event of main breaks. 
With the trade-in of the 2001 truck, the new price for the 2023 Vac-Con is
$504,216.50. The Public Works Department has FEMA reimbursement funds and
unencumbered money in the street/storm/sewer fund that would give the city a
down payment of $353,505.76. The council approved a 48-month, 4% interest lease
purchase agreement with First Kansas Bank to cover the remaining cost of
$150,710.74.&nbsp; The annual payment to First Kansas Bank will be $41,576.95. The city is currently scheduling $40,000 annually to be put back in the Capital Outlay for a vacuum truck that will be used to pay the lease purchase annual payment.&nbsp;

Great Bend council approves $504K truck purchase

The Great Bend High School debate students have spent the semester improving their thinking, researching and speaking skills. These previous two weekends provided an opportunity to show off those skills at four exclusive tournaments.

This last weekend, January 13th and 14th, Great Bend Debate won 8th place at the KSHSAA 5A Four-Speaker Debate Tournament. In addition, GBHS also qualified a team for the KSHSAA 5A Two Speaker Debate Tournament. Both of these culminating state tournaments took place at Washburn Rural in Topeka. Junior Chrisangel Adame and senior Aliyah Fryberger represented the Panthers in the 2-Speaker tournament. Seniors Adeline Dougherty and Xanna Smith debated on the affirmative for the 5A-State 4 Speaker team. The negative team was composed of junior Thomas Henrikson and senior Maddix Pokorski. Senior Alondra Alvarez was the alternate.

At Novice State, held at Wichita Southeast High School the weekend of January 6th and 7th, the best Novice (first year) teams in the state debated. Freshmen from Great Bend included Hannah Hopkins, Ellie Damm, Rhys Froestchner and Quinton Heath. Hopkins and Damm compiled a record of 4 wins and 2 losses and finished 15th overall out of 57 teams. Hopkins was the 15th best

speaker in the tournament and Damm was the 18th out of 114 debaters. While none of the debaters placed in the top eight to break into out-rounds, they all put in an amazing effort.

Finally, also at Wichita Southeast, two varsity teams consisting of Dougherty, Smith, Henrikson and Pokorsk debated in a very selective tournament called the Kansas Debate Classic (KDC) of over 70 skilled debate teams from across the state of Kansas. While neither team broke into elimination rounds, they showed excellent tenacity and strength in their six rounds.

These tournaments end the debate season. The team now turns their attention to forensics. They will open their season this Friday, January 20th with a trip to Wichita State's United Nations conference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673966440906.jpeg" alt="KSHSAA State Debate -- Alondra Alvarez, Aliyah Fryberger, Chrisangel Adame, Maddix Pokorski, Thomas Henrikson, Xanna Smith and Adeline Dougherty" />
 <figcaption>KSHSAA State Debate -- Alondra Alvarez, Aliyah Fryberger, Chrisangel Adame, Maddix Pokorski, Thomas Henrikson, Xanna Smith and Adeline Dougherty</figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend High School debate students have spent the semester improving their thinking, researching and speaking skills. These previous two weekends provided an opportunity to show off those skills at four exclusive tournaments.This last weekend, January 13th and 14th, Great Bend Debate won 8th place at the KSHSAA 5A Four-Speaker Debate Tournament. In addition, GBHS also qualified a team for the KSHSAA 5A Two Speaker Debate Tournament. Both of these culminating state tournaments took place at Washburn Rural in Topeka. Junior Chrisangel Adame and senior Aliyah Fryberger represented the Panthers in the 2-Speaker tournament. Seniors Adeline Dougherty and Xanna Smith debated on the affirmative for the 5A-State 4 Speaker team. The negative team was composed of junior Thomas Henrikson and senior Maddix Pokorski. Senior Alondra Alvarez was the alternate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673966500657.jpeg" alt="Novice State Debate -- Quinton Heath, Rhys Froetschner, Zachary Hart, Ellie Damm, Hannah Hopkins" />
 <figcaption>Novice State Debate -- Quinton Heath, Rhys Froetschner, Zachary Hart, Ellie Damm, Hannah Hopkins</figcaption>
 </figure>At Novice State, held at Wichita Southeast High School the weekend of January 6th and 7th, the best Novice (first year) teams in the state debated. Freshmen from Great Bend included Hannah Hopkins, Ellie Damm, Rhys Froestchner and Quinton Heath. Hopkins and Damm compiled a record of 4 wins and 2 losses and finished 15th overall out of 57 teams. Hopkins was the 15th bestspeaker in the tournament and Damm was the 18th out of 114 debaters. While none of the debaters placed in the top eight to break into out-rounds, they all put in an amazing effort.Finally, also at Wichita Southeast, two varsity teams consisting of Dougherty, Smith, Henrikson and Pokorsk debated in a very selective tournament called the Kansas Debate Classic (KDC) of over 70 skilled debate teams from across the state of Kansas. While neither team broke into elimination rounds, they showed excellent tenacity and strength in their six rounds.These tournaments end the debate season. The team now turns their attention to forensics. They will open their season this Friday, January 20th with a trip to Wichita State's United Nations conference.

Great Bend debaters finish 8th in the state

Although an officer position still comes open from time to time, the
Great Bend Police Department seems to be having a much easier time filling
vacancies than in years prior.

At the end of last November, Police Chief Steve Haulmark introduced the Great Bend City Council to the latest hire that made his staff complete.

Haulmark credited the good team morale last November to the recently passed .20% sales tax increase that will bolster first responders' retirement plans and new police station that will be constructed by this August. &nbsp;With an
officer announcing his resignation since then, Haulmark made another
introduction at Monday’s council meeting to get the department fully staffed
again. "I wanted to introduce Jordan Keil, newest member of our police department," said Haulmark. "He started last Monday evening. Jordan is born and raised here in Great Bend." Keil went to school at Barton Community College and Fort Hays State
University. Keil has a degree in biology and has worked summers for the Kansas
Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673923423335.jpeg" alt="Jordan Keil was introduced as the latest member of the Great Bend Police Department at the Great Bend City Council meeting on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Keil was introduced as the latest member of the Great Bend Police Department at the Great Bend City Council meeting on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAlthough an officer position still comes open from time to time, the
Great Bend Police Department seems to be having a much easier time filling
vacancies than in years prior.At the end of last November, Police Chief Steve Haulmark introduced the Great Bend City Council to the latest hire that made his staff complete.Haulmark credited the good team morale last November to the recently passed .20% sales tax increase that will bolster first responders' retirement plans and new police station that will be constructed by this August. &nbsp;With an
officer announcing his resignation since then, Haulmark made another
introduction at Monday’s council meeting to get the department fully staffed
again. "I wanted to introduce Jordan Keil, newest member of our police department," said Haulmark. "He started last Monday evening. Jordan is born and raised here in Great Bend." Keil went to school at Barton Community College and Fort Hays State
University. Keil has a degree in biology and has worked summers for the Kansas
Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend native joins the GB Police Department

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (1/16) 
 
Heart Problems 
 
At 3:37 p.m. heart problems were reported at 140 SE 10 Road. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 6:27 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp; Gano. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 7:31 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 67 NW 50 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:20 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 879 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Chase All Units 
 
At 9:49 p.m. a chase was reported at Broadway &amp; Madison. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (1/16) 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 7:17 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 2540 16th Street. 
 
At 10:23 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1301 Hoover Street. 
 
Medical Alarm 
 
At 12:57 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5831 Birchwood Dr. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 4:38 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 12th Street &amp; Lincoln. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 5:58 p.m. a fire alarm was reported at 2526 Lakin Avenue. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:42 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported subjects
shoplifting items last week. 
 
Chase All Units 
 
At 9:49 p.m. a driver failed to yield and fled after a minor single vehicle accident.
Driver at large and unidentified. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:57 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized for a track at Broadway &amp; Madison. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:59 p.m. a single-vehicle accident was reported at Broadway &amp; Madison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (1/16) 
 
Heart Problems 
 
At 3:37 p.m. heart problems were reported at 140 SE 10 Road. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 6:27 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp; Gano. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 7:31 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 67 NW 50 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:20 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 879 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Chase All Units 
 
At 9:49 p.m. a chase was reported at Broadway &amp; Madison. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (1/16) 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 7:17 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 2540 16th Street. 
 
At 10:23 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1301 Hoover Street. 
 
Medical Alarm 
 
At 12:57 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5831 Birchwood Dr. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 4:38 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 12th Street &amp; Lincoln. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 5:58 p.m. a fire alarm was reported at 2526 Lakin Avenue. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:42 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported subjects
shoplifting items last week. 
 
Chase All Units 
 
At 9:49 p.m. a driver failed to yield and fled after a minor single vehicle accident.
Driver at large and unidentified. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:57 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized for a track at Broadway &amp; Madison. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:59 p.m. a single-vehicle accident was reported at Broadway &amp; Madison.

Cop Shop (1/16)

1/16 BOOKED: Juvenile for Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jesse Pribble on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Crystal Caruthers on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Mareco Sago on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Christopher Buckley on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Trent Rein on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Gwen Finnigan on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

RELEASED: Juvenile for Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to Juvenile Justice Authority.

RELEASED: Jesse Pribble on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Adalberto Rios on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Jeremiah Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case on Contempt of Court, per court.

RELEASED: Trent Rein on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>1/16 BOOKED: Juvenile for Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Jesse Pribble on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Crystal Caruthers on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Mareco Sago on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Christopher Buckley on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Trent Rein on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Gwen Finnigan on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Juvenile for Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to Juvenile Justice Authority.RELEASED: Jesse Pribble on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Adalberto Rios on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.&nbsp;RELEASED: Jeremiah Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case on Contempt of Court, per court.RELEASED: Trent Rein on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (1/16)

The pieces continue to fall into place for the construction of a new hospital in Ellinwood. The hospital received a $25 million loan from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), but still needed to raise $1.25 million locally via a capital campaign to show community support for the new building. Ellinwood Hospital Foundation Director Kristy Rupe said the $1.25 million has been raised, and now the goal is to reach another million.

"Bill Sanford is a former graduate from Ellinwood and the founder of STERIS medical equipment," she said. "He has since approached us and said he will contribute $500,000 towards the campaign in dollar-for-dollar matching funds. Right now, we're just pushing really hard to try and raise as much as we can toward that $500,000 goal in hopes it turns into a match, so it'd be a total of $1,000,000."

Sanford graduated from EHS in 1961, and now lives in Florida. The Sanford family will match every confirmed donation made to the capital campaign, up to the $500,000, between Dec. 10, 2022, and Jan. 31, 2023.

"Although I only lived in Ellinwood for a few years in junior and high school, I have always considered this wonderful community as ‘home’ when asked," Sanford said in a release. "My entire business life has been devoted to improving health care for everyone. Smaller communities, especially in middle America, have significant challenges in providing high-quality health services locally. The new Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic will enable residents in Ellinwood and surrounding communities to have access to modern facilities and, even more importantly, local doctors, nurses, and other health services professionals. My family and I are pleased and humbled to be involved with the Foundation and entire community in this critically important funding effort.”

Beyond that, no groundbreaking date has yet been determined as McCown Gordon Construction continues solidifying sub-contract work for the $32 million project. Those bids will need to be turned into a Guaranteed Maximum Price contract to be submitted to the USDA for approval.

"We knew it was part of the process," Rupe said. "It's not like it's anything unusual or a blip on the radar."

Construction on the new hospital is expected to take 18-24 months once it begins, so no decisions have been made on the existing hospital at this time. 

"I know for a fact the board of trustees isn't going to do anything that would turn it into an eyesore," Rupe said. "I know they're going to do what's best for the community. They have the community's best interest at hand when making decisions about that, whenever that time comes."

Ellinwood Hospital purchased 15 acres along U.S. 56 Highway, and the new facility is expected to take up 10 of those acres.    

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667441674280.jpeg" alt="Architectural rending of the new Ellinwood Hospital" />
 <figcaption>Architectural rending of the new Ellinwood Hospital</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe pieces continue to fall into place for the construction of a new hospital in Ellinwood. The hospital received a $25 million loan from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), but still needed to raise $1.25 million locally via a capital campaign to show community support for the new building. Ellinwood Hospital Foundation Director Kristy Rupe said the $1.25 million has been raised, and now the goal is to reach another million."Bill Sanford is a former graduate from Ellinwood and the founder of STERIS medical equipment," she said. "He has since approached us and said he will contribute $500,000 towards the campaign in dollar-for-dollar matching funds. Right now, we're just pushing really hard to try and raise as much as we can toward that $500,000 goal in hopes it turns into a match, so it'd be a total of $1,000,000."Sanford graduated from EHS in 1961, and now lives in Florida. The Sanford family will match every confirmed donation made to the capital campaign, up to the $500,000, between Dec. 10, 2022, and Jan. 31, 2023."Although I only lived in Ellinwood for a few years in junior and high school, I have always considered this wonderful community as ‘home’ when asked," Sanford said in a release. "My entire business life has been devoted to improving health care for everyone. Smaller communities, especially in middle America, have significant challenges in providing high-quality health services locally. The new Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic will enable residents in Ellinwood and surrounding communities to have access to modern facilities and, even more importantly, local doctors, nurses, and other health services professionals. My family and I are pleased and humbled to be involved with the Foundation and entire community in this critically important funding effort.”Beyond that, no groundbreaking date has yet been determined as McCown Gordon Construction continues solidifying sub-contract work for the $32 million project. Those bids will need to be turned into a Guaranteed Maximum Price contract to be submitted to the USDA for approval."We knew it was part of the process," Rupe said. "It's not like it's anything unusual or a blip on the radar."Construction on the new hospital is expected to take 18-24 months once it begins, so no decisions have been made on the existing hospital at this time. "I know for a fact the board of trustees isn't going to do anything that would turn it into an eyesore," Rupe said. "I know they're going to do what's best for the community. They have the community's best interest at hand when making decisions about that, whenever that time comes."Ellinwood Hospital purchased 15 acres along U.S. 56 Highway, and the new facility is expected to take up 10 of those acres.

New Ellinwood hospital inching toward groundbreaking date

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 49. North-northwest wind 5 to 13 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Tonight Rain, mainly before 3 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 a.m. Low around 36. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Wednesday A 50-percent chance of rain before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 44. East wind 9 to 17 mph becoming west-northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Night Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Blustery, with a northwest wind 17 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 44. Northwest wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 23.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 45.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 23.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 41.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 22.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22.

Monday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 49. North-northwest wind 5 to 13 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Tonight Rain, mainly before 3 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 a.m. Low around 36. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.Wednesday A 50-percent chance of rain before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 44. East wind 9 to 17 mph becoming west-northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Night Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Blustery, with a northwest wind 17 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 44. Northwest wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 23.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 45.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 23.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 41.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 22.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22.Monday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

A flock of electronic birds hit the streets of Great Bend in late March
2021. Less than two years later, the electronic scooters are no longer a form
of transportation.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/56062a44-190e-4057-b45f-fb878366432c">RELATED STORY: A flock of electronic Birds are on the streets in Great Bend</a>

At Monday’s Great Bend City Council meeting, Community
Coordinator Christina Hayes said the local investor decided they were not
interested in managing the 100 scooters in Great Bend anymore. Bird Rides has
also told the city of their lack of interest in bringing the scooters back. "You can see Birds were used all over our community, which is great because it is another form of transportation," said Hayes. "We need to look for another local investor. Even if we do find one that will partner with Bird and follow their rules, it's not guaranteed that Bird will come back." 
In 2021, there were 10,469 rides from the scooters in Great Bend. In 2022, that
number fell to 4,193, a near 60% drop. Total miles traveled on the scooters
went from 21,743 in 2021 to 8,506 in 2022. 
Although they were of no cost to the city, Hayes said the city would like to
keep the form of transportation and entertainment if another investor could be
found, but she was not hopeful they would return in 2023. 
"When we signed up as a city entity, we knew that we didn't want to be in charge of all the scooters...it would take too much time and effort," said Hayes. "We needed to look at someone to maintain them." 
The scooters could reach a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour and allowed
anyone to pinpoint the location of the ride by opening the mobile app.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

If interested in becoming an investor and maintaining the scooters in Great Bend, contact Hayes at 620-793-4111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650469760389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA flock of electronic birds hit the streets of Great Bend in late March
2021. Less than two years later, the electronic scooters are no longer a form
of transportation.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/56062a44-190e-4057-b45f-fb878366432c">RELATED STORY: A flock of electronic Birds are on the streets in Great Bend</a>At Monday’s Great Bend City Council meeting, Community
Coordinator Christina Hayes said the local investor decided they were not
interested in managing the 100 scooters in Great Bend anymore. Bird Rides has
also told the city of their lack of interest in bringing the scooters back. "You can see Birds were used all over our community, which is great because it is another form of transportation," said Hayes. "We need to look for another local investor. Even if we do find one that will partner with Bird and follow their rules, it's not guaranteed that Bird will come back." 
In 2021, there were 10,469 rides from the scooters in Great Bend. In 2022, that
number fell to 4,193, a near 60% drop. Total miles traveled on the scooters
went from 21,743 in 2021 to 8,506 in 2022. 
Although they were of no cost to the city, Hayes said the city would like to
keep the form of transportation and entertainment if another investor could be
found, but she was not hopeful they would return in 2023. 
"When we signed up as a city entity, we knew that we didn't want to be in charge of all the scooters...it would take too much time and effort," said Hayes. "We needed to look at someone to maintain them." 
The scooters could reach a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour and allowed
anyone to pinpoint the location of the ride by opening the mobile app.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;If interested in becoming an investor and maintaining the scooters in Great Bend, contact Hayes at 620-793-4111.

Electronic scooters fizzle out in Great Bend with lack of use

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

For the last 59 years, the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce has recognized that special person that lives or works in the community as its Citizen of the Year. The chamber is again accepting nominations through noon on Jan. 25, and Chamber Director Karen Baldyga said they are looking for someone who goes above and beyond.

"They just need to think of someone in the community that has done a lot of volunteer work, that goes above and beyond the call of their normal job," she said. "Somebody that's great at their job, that's great, but we're not looking for that. We're looking for somebody that takes what they do for a job and expands it out into the community and finds a way to help people."

The chamber has handed out the honor every year since 1963, except inexplicably, in 1977. Nominations may be for individuals or couples who live in work in Hoisington, or even organizations. In 2001, volunteers and tornado victims won the honor, and the Hoisington Fire Department has also been recognized. Previous Citizens of the Year are not eligible, but Labor Day Parade grand marshals are.

"In the last couple years, I've actually received quite a few nominations," Baldyga said. "It's great to see the community recognize individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty."

Nominations can be delivered to the chamber or made online by clicking the Citizen of the Year tab by <a href="https://www.hoisingtonkansas.com/citizen-of-the-year?fbclid=IwAR2xVrhr7H7Gv7GpMHA_6Xw-RHHKx1u_CPHUVah028gofohyaKCCwWBSxxw">CLICKING HERE</a>. The chamber will host a coffee on Jan. 26, where the nominees will be announced. Voting will take place after the coffee and through noon on Feb. 3, and the winner will be announced at the Chamber Banquet on Feb. 11. Votes may be placed in person, online, or by contacting the chamber.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673878463226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFor the last 59 years, the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce has recognized that special person that lives or works in the community as its Citizen of the Year. The chamber is again accepting nominations through noon on Jan. 25, and Chamber Director Karen Baldyga said they are looking for someone who goes above and beyond."They just need to think of someone in the community that has done a lot of volunteer work, that goes above and beyond the call of their normal job," she said. "Somebody that's great at their job, that's great, but we're not looking for that. We're looking for somebody that takes what they do for a job and expands it out into the community and finds a way to help people."The chamber has handed out the honor every year since 1963, except inexplicably, in 1977. Nominations may be for individuals or couples who live in work in Hoisington, or even organizations. In 2001, volunteers and tornado victims won the honor, and the Hoisington Fire Department has also been recognized. Previous Citizens of the Year are not eligible, but Labor Day Parade grand marshals are."In the last couple years, I've actually received quite a few nominations," Baldyga said. "It's great to see the community recognize individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty."Nominations can be delivered to the chamber or made online by clicking the Citizen of the Year tab by <a href="https://www.hoisingtonkansas.com/citizen-of-the-year?fbclid=IwAR2xVrhr7H7Gv7GpMHA_6Xw-RHHKx1u_CPHUVah028gofohyaKCCwWBSxxw">CLICKING HERE</a>. The chamber will host a coffee on Jan. 26, where the nominees will be announced. Voting will take place after the coffee and through noon on Feb. 3, and the winner will be announced at the Chamber Banquet on Feb. 11. Votes may be placed in person, online, or by contacting the chamber.

Hoisington Chamber looking for 2022 Citizen of the Year

The Shafer Art Gallery will unveil its next exhibit “Figure/Ground” by Kevin Kelly with a reception at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 20 in the Gallery, which will feature a short artist talk, comments by the director and light refreshments. Admission is free.

Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is ecstatic to have such a vibrant and contemporary artist on display in the Gallery.

“We really try to bring artists to the Shafer Gallery who are on the cutting edge of art making in Kansas,” he said. “Kevin Kelly is happening right now. He has several exhibits running concurrently. He is showing in the Lawrence Arts Center, Mark Arts in Wichita and at the Shafer Gallery. As an engaged high school art teacher, I think he is very into working with the formal basics, the raw materials of design. He transforms shapes bold textures and shaped canvases into exciting, thoughtful visual encounters. The Shafer Gallery will be aglow with vibrant light and color.”

Kelly is an artist and educator from the middle of America. His artwork is held in many private collections across the United States and has been recognized through the Golden Artist Residency, the Mother’s Milk Artist Residency, the Harvester Arts Community Fellowship Program, and the Oklahoma Visual Arts Commission.&nbsp; Kelly has been featured in group and solo exhibits in Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New York for the last 15 years.&nbsp; His work has been featured in several publications, including New American Paintings, Studio Visit magazine, and the book “Wichita Artists in Their Studios.”

Kelly describes his take on being a painter in his artist statement.

“It seems to me that the story of painting was partially supposed to be about uncovering creative possibilities, freezing an artistic gesture, and finding an individual identity,” he said. “These artworks awkwardly occupy that space between a romanticized, painterly experience of the world and the unromantic surroundings of the Midwest I grew up in.&nbsp; That landscape is characterized by utility, heavy-handed social and political messaging, and a restrained dialect.&nbsp; I am using the vocabulary of painting as I dissect its processes. By taking painted gestures and my surroundings out of their normal contexts, I hope to give both a fighting chance.” The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.&nbsp;For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673622580936.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaThe Shafer Art Gallery will unveil its next exhibit “Figure/Ground” by Kevin Kelly with a reception at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 20 in the Gallery, which will feature a short artist talk, comments by the director and light refreshments. Admission is free.Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is ecstatic to have such a vibrant and contemporary artist on display in the Gallery.“We really try to bring artists to the Shafer Gallery who are on the cutting edge of art making in Kansas,” he said. “Kevin Kelly is happening right now. He has several exhibits running concurrently. He is showing in the Lawrence Arts Center, Mark Arts in Wichita and at the Shafer Gallery. As an engaged high school art teacher, I think he is very into working with the formal basics, the raw materials of design. He transforms shapes bold textures and shaped canvases into exciting, thoughtful visual encounters. The Shafer Gallery will be aglow with vibrant light and color.”Kelly is an artist and educator from the middle of America. His artwork is held in many private collections across the United States and has been recognized through the Golden Artist Residency, the Mother’s Milk Artist Residency, the Harvester Arts Community Fellowship Program, and the Oklahoma Visual Arts Commission.&nbsp; Kelly has been featured in group and solo exhibits in Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New York for the last 15 years.&nbsp; His work has been featured in several publications, including New American Paintings, Studio Visit magazine, and the book “Wichita Artists in Their Studios.”<figure>
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 </figure>Kelly describes his take on being a painter in his artist statement.“It seems to me that the story of painting was partially supposed to be about uncovering creative possibilities, freezing an artistic gesture, and finding an individual identity,” he said. “These artworks awkwardly occupy that space between a romanticized, painterly experience of the world and the unromantic surroundings of the Midwest I grew up in.&nbsp; That landscape is characterized by utility, heavy-handed social and political messaging, and a restrained dialect.&nbsp; I am using the vocabulary of painting as I dissect its processes. By taking painted gestures and my surroundings out of their normal contexts, I hope to give both a fighting chance.” The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.&nbsp;For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

Shafer Art Gallery presents 'Kevin Kelly: Figure/Ground' exhibit

GREAT BEND — Our four grizzly bears have been bedded down and spending the winter in their stalls since mid-November. During this time, they slow down and spend much of their time sleeping and are not very active. We check them daily and offer food and they constantly have access to water. On Saturday, keepers noticed Winnie, one of our 10-year-old male bears, was not as interested in his food as he normally is. Because it’s winter, that is not something that is abnormal from time to time. On Sunday, he appeared to still not be interested in food and was more lethargic, so staff tried to give him some electrolytes and some other types of food and he did consume a small amount.

Unfortunately, during our morning rounds today, he was discovered to have passed away sometime overnight. Our veterinarians performed a necropsy, and preliminary results indicate that he suffered from gastric torsion. This is a life-threatening and often fatal condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched and rotated and can cut off the blood supply to the gastrointestinal tract. An exploratory surgery would have been the only way to discover this condition and is not something easily accomplished in an animal as large as a grizzly bear. We did come across a few other abnormal findings and samples and tissues were sent to K-State for further evaluation.

Our staff is absolutely devastated by this unexpected loss and would appreciate your respect during their grieving process. We consider these animals to be a part of our family and losing one of our family members takes a significant toll on our staff. Winnie’s siblings, Piglet and Pooh, appear to be handling it as expected and will have each other and their keepers during their grieving process.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Park Department at 620-793- 4111.

Courtesy Brit Spaugh ZooGREAT BEND — Our four grizzly bears have been bedded down and spending the winter in their stalls since mid-November. During this time, they slow down and spend much of their time sleeping and are not very active. We check them daily and offer food and they constantly have access to water. On Saturday, keepers noticed Winnie, one of our 10-year-old male bears, was not as interested in his food as he normally is. Because it’s winter, that is not something that is abnormal from time to time. On Sunday, he appeared to still not be interested in food and was more lethargic, so staff tried to give him some electrolytes and some other types of food and he did consume a small amount. Unfortunately, during our morning rounds today, he was discovered to have passed away sometime overnight. Our veterinarians performed a necropsy, and preliminary results indicate that he suffered from gastric torsion. This is a life-threatening and often fatal condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched and rotated and can cut off the blood supply to the gastrointestinal tract. An exploratory surgery would have been the only way to discover this condition and is not something easily accomplished in an animal as large as a grizzly bear. We did come across a few other abnormal findings and samples and tissues were sent to K-State for further evaluation.Our staff is absolutely devastated by this unexpected loss and would appreciate your respect during their grieving process. We consider these animals to be a part of our family and losing one of our family members takes a significant toll on our staff. Winnie’s siblings, Piglet and Pooh, appear to be handling it as expected and will have each other and their keepers during their grieving process.If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Park Department at 620-793- 4111.

Winnie the grizzly dies at Great Bend zoo

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