RUSSELL COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking for help to locate a suspect.

Just before 2:30 p.m. Monday, police responded to the shooting call in the 1300 block of North Fossil Street in Russell, according to a media release.&nbsp;

First responders found a 45-year-old man suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to Russel Regional Hospital, He was later airlifted to a trauma center in Wichita.

Police are attempting to locate a suspect identified as 47-year-old Shane Slack. He is described as a white male, 5-foot-11, 160 pounds with blue eyes. 

He was last seen wearing black jeans, black shirt, and a leather vest with patches and possibly driving a 1999 Toyota Tacoma bearing Kansas 725 RMV. 

Slack is believed to be armed and dangerous.&nbsp; If you see him please do not approach and call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673350929533.png" alt="Slack -photo Russell Police" />
 <figcaption>Slack -photo Russell Police</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking for help to locate a suspect.Just before 2:30 p.m. Monday, police responded to the shooting call in the 1300 block of North Fossil Street in Russell, according to a media release.&nbsp;First responders found a 45-year-old man suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to Russel Regional Hospital, He was later airlifted to a trauma center in Wichita.Police are attempting to locate a suspect identified as 47-year-old Shane Slack. He is described as a white male, 5-foot-11, 160 pounds with blue eyes. He was last seen wearing black jeans, black shirt, and a leather vest with patches and possibly driving a 1999 Toyota Tacoma bearing Kansas 725 RMV. Slack is believed to be armed and dangerous.&nbsp; If you see him please do not approach and call 911.

Man airlifted to hospital, Russell police search for shooting suspect

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

The design cut into the wood is beautiful, detailed, intricate – and handmade. It was not produced with a laser cutter or computer-aided design, but rather, entirely by hand by a remarkably skilled craftsman in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Curtis and Lori Swenson are founders and owners of C&amp;L Crafts in Miltonvale. They grew up in the Randolph area, met in school and were married. They would ultimately have four children.&nbsp;

Those children, now grown, have also chosen to live in rural Kansas. They now live in Miltonvale, population 440; Mayetta, population 348; Olsburg, population 218; and Idana, population 54 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Curtis took a job in Nebraska where he suffered a terrible accident in which his back was broken in two places. He would have 22 back surgeries, the first of which was 8 ½ hours long. He made a full recovery, but it was a long recuperation.&nbsp;

“I was going stir crazy,” Curtis said. He looked for something he could do with his hands.&nbsp;

“I had watched a guy at Silver Dollar City cut designs into wood and thought that looked interesting.” He bought a scroll saw on sale and found he really enjoyed cutting intricate designs.&nbsp;

“It was therapy,” said Lori, who helped out by doing the finish work.&nbsp;

The Swensons moved to the Miltonvale area in 1996. “When people there saw what I was doing, they told me we should sell those things at craft shows,” Curtis said. So, the couple started going to shows and continued to make these products on the side while he worked for the school district, from which he is now retired.&nbsp;

Today, C&amp;L Crafts has sold wood products all over the nation and beyond. These are not your typical trinkets. Every one of these is handcrafted by Curtis and Lori themselves.&nbsp;

They order Baltic Birch type A plywood from a Kansas City company. This wood is especially made for cabinet liners and has no knots or spaces. Curtis orders 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 inch thickness. He can also make designs in oak, walnut, cedar, and even hedge.&nbsp;

The Swensons have attended as many as 40 craft shows in a single year. For a decade, they had a booth at craft shows in Branson during the spring and fall. “They would put me in the number one and number two booths, and I would demonstrate the wood-cutting all day long,” Curtis said. “I enjoyed that.”&nbsp;

These designs are remarkably detailed and intricate.&nbsp;&nbsp;“A lot of people believe this is done by a laser, but a laser burns the edges of the wood,” Curtis said. His items are entirely hand-cut using a narrow-bladed scroll saw.&nbsp;

Curtis does the cutting and Lori does the finish work: “She has the lighter touch,” Curtis said. Lori does the sanding, staining, and varnishing, plus the final assembly or attaching a hanger. She also categorizes and stores the items.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re a team,” Curtis said.&nbsp;

“We do lots of custom work,” Curtis said. Lori adds: “If you’re looking for something in particular, just ask.”&nbsp;

“We will donate items for schools or groups to sell as fundraisers,” Lori said. Curtis has donated military designs to veterans and given crosses to the elderly ladies at nursing homes. “If you can do something with it that cheers somebody up, that’s all that matters,” Curtis said. “We like to see people happy.”&nbsp;

That personal touch is why he prefers craft shows to selling over the Internet. “I like to visit with people,” Curtis said.&nbsp;

The Swensons use more than 6,500 patterns for signs, toys, wildlife designs, and Christmas ornaments. “We do 20,000-plus ornaments in a year, easy,” Curtis said. C&amp;L Craft items have gone from coast to coast, to Alaska, Hawaii, and as far away as Africa and Australia.&nbsp;

For more information, contact Curtis and Lori at 785-427-6353.&nbsp;

The design in the wood is intricate and beautiful – and entirely created by hand. We commend Curtis and Lori Swenson of C&amp;L Crafts for making a difference with creative craftsmanship. They are truly accomplished artisans, hands-down.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672840643201.png" alt="Lori and Curtis Swenson / Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Lori and Curtis Swenson / Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;The design cut into the wood is beautiful, detailed, intricate – and handmade. It was not produced with a laser cutter or computer-aided design, but rather, entirely by hand by a remarkably skilled craftsman in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Curtis and Lori Swenson are founders and owners of C&amp;L Crafts in Miltonvale. They grew up in the Randolph area, met in school and were married. They would ultimately have four children.&nbsp;Those children, now grown, have also chosen to live in rural Kansas. They now live in Miltonvale, population 440; Mayetta, population 348; Olsburg, population 218; and Idana, population 54 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Curtis took a job in Nebraska where he suffered a terrible accident in which his back was broken in two places. He would have 22 back surgeries, the first of which was 8 ½ hours long. He made a full recovery, but it was a long recuperation.&nbsp;“I was going stir crazy,” Curtis said. He looked for something he could do with his hands.&nbsp;“I had watched a guy at Silver Dollar City cut designs into wood and thought that looked interesting.” He bought a scroll saw on sale and found he really enjoyed cutting intricate designs.&nbsp;“It was therapy,” said Lori, who helped out by doing the finish work.&nbsp;The Swensons moved to the Miltonvale area in 1996. “When people there saw what I was doing, they told me we should sell those things at craft shows,” Curtis said. So, the couple started going to shows and continued to make these products on the side while he worked for the school district, from which he is now retired.&nbsp;Today, C&amp;L Crafts has sold wood products all over the nation and beyond. These are not your typical trinkets. Every one of these is handcrafted by Curtis and Lori themselves.&nbsp;They order Baltic Birch type A plywood from a Kansas City company. This wood is especially made for cabinet liners and has no knots or spaces. Curtis orders 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 inch thickness. He can also make designs in oak, walnut, cedar, and even hedge.&nbsp;The Swensons have attended as many as 40 craft shows in a single year. For a decade, they had a booth at craft shows in Branson during the spring and fall. “They would put me in the number one and number two booths, and I would demonstrate the wood-cutting all day long,” Curtis said. “I enjoyed that.”&nbsp;These designs are remarkably detailed and intricate.&nbsp;&nbsp;“A lot of people believe this is done by a laser, but a laser burns the edges of the wood,” Curtis said. His items are entirely hand-cut using a narrow-bladed scroll saw.&nbsp;Curtis does the cutting and Lori does the finish work: “She has the lighter touch,” Curtis said. Lori does the sanding, staining, and varnishing, plus the final assembly or attaching a hanger. She also categorizes and stores the items.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re a team,” Curtis said.&nbsp;“We do lots of custom work,” Curtis said. Lori adds: “If you’re looking for something in particular, just ask.”&nbsp;“We will donate items for schools or groups to sell as fundraisers,” Lori said. Curtis has donated military designs to veterans and given crosses to the elderly ladies at nursing homes. “If you can do something with it that cheers somebody up, that’s all that matters,” Curtis said. “We like to see people happy.”&nbsp;That personal touch is why he prefers craft shows to selling over the Internet. “I like to visit with people,” Curtis said.&nbsp;The Swensons use more than 6,500 patterns for signs, toys, wildlife designs, and Christmas ornaments. “We do 20,000-plus ornaments in a year, easy,” Curtis said. C&amp;L Craft items have gone from coast to coast, to Alaska, Hawaii, and as far away as Africa and Australia.&nbsp;For more information, contact Curtis and Lori at 785-427-6353.&nbsp;The design in the wood is intricate and beautiful – and entirely created by hand. We commend Curtis and Lori Swenson of C&amp;L Crafts for making a difference with creative craftsmanship. They are truly accomplished artisans, hands-down.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Curtis and Lori Swenson, C&L Crafts 

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

CPR saved an infant's life at the Great Bend Walmart last October. More recently, it saved the life of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin in a high-profile Monday Night Football game. Now organizations are examining how they, too, might use CPR and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to save lives. Great Bend High School Activities Director Matt Westerhaus and Head Athletic Trainer Ryan Zink spoke about the two life savers at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting.

Approximately four years ago, the Kansas State High School Activities Association implement Rule 10-1-9, stating all sports coaches and activity sponsors must be CPR and AED certified. Westerhaus said USD 428 takes it a step further with first aid certification.

"At the beginning of the year, we offer a few days for those coaches who are in need of recertification to do that," Westerhaus said. "Then, throughout the year, we'll set up some times for new hires. If you'll notice in that rule, we have 30 days to comply."

In addition to being head trainer, Zink also teaches two sports medicine classes. Students spend about 10 days on CPR certification in the first class. Students who take the second class not only recertify, but also teach childhood CPR in another class. Zink said approximately 90-100 students in grades 10-12 get certified each year, and some 350 students in the building are certified. Staff certification hovers around 50 percent.

"We always hope nothing happens from an emergency standpoint, but I feel like we're in a pretty good place," Zink said. "It'd be nice to get it to 100 percent when it comes to staff, but maybe we'll get there one day. I think 50 percent is a pretty good number."

Zink also reported there are nine AEDs inside Great Bend High School, and one of those devices could be accessed within approximately 30 seconds of an emergency anywhere in the school. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673316910671.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School Head Trainer Ryan Zink" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School Head Trainer Ryan Zink</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCPR saved an infant's life at the Great Bend Walmart last October. More recently, it saved the life of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin in a high-profile Monday Night Football game. Now organizations are examining how they, too, might use CPR and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to save lives. Great Bend High School Activities Director Matt Westerhaus and Head Athletic Trainer Ryan Zink spoke about the two life savers at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting.Approximately four years ago, the Kansas State High School Activities Association implement Rule 10-1-9, stating all sports coaches and activity sponsors must be CPR and AED certified. Westerhaus said USD 428 takes it a step further with first aid certification."At the beginning of the year, we offer a few days for those coaches who are in need of recertification to do that," Westerhaus said. "Then, throughout the year, we'll set up some times for new hires. If you'll notice in that rule, we have 30 days to comply."In addition to being head trainer, Zink also teaches two sports medicine classes. Students spend about 10 days on CPR certification in the first class. Students who take the second class not only recertify, but also teach childhood CPR in another class. Zink said approximately 90-100 students in grades 10-12 get certified each year, and some 350 students in the building are certified. Staff certification hovers around 50 percent."We always hope nothing happens from an emergency standpoint, but I feel like we're in a pretty good place," Zink said. "It'd be nice to get it to 100 percent when it comes to staff, but maybe we'll get there one day. I think 50 percent is a pretty good number."Zink also reported there are nine AEDs inside Great Bend High School, and one of those devices could be accessed within approximately 30 seconds of an emergency anywhere in the school.

GBHS certifying approximately 100 students a year in CPR

News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 9 John P. Tretbar

After posting weekly losses, crude prices rose two percent Monday, with the Nymex benchmark futures contract trading over $75 a barrel by midday. London Brent was just under $80 a barrel. Crude prices have dropped nearly twenty dollars per barrel in the last two months. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $64 a barrel at CHS in McPherson. Operators of the Keystone Pipeline took steps to divert a northeast Kansas creek around the area where the pipe spilled 14,000 barrels of crude oil on Dec. 8. TC Energy announced installation of water pumps and an above-ground bypass line, essentially a big hose, to temporarily re-route Mill Creek. As of January 2 the company Web site noted it had recovered 11,939 barrels of crude oil from the spill zone in Washington County. Kansas drilling notices were down in December but up for the year. The Kansas Corporation Commission okayed just 70 intent-to-drill notices last month statewide. That's roughly half the tallies from a &nbsp;month ago and a year ago. But the year-end total stands at 1,681, up by 30% from the year before. A search of the Web site at the KCC returns four new Barton County intents in December, three in Ellis County and three in Stafford County. That brings Barton County's tally for the year to 48 new drilling notices, up from 37 a year ago and 16 the year before that. Ellis County notched 55 intents last year, compared to 29 the year before and 16 for the year in 2020. Operators spudded 1,606 wells last year in Kansas, up more than 38% from the year before. Total footage topped 4.5 million feet, up more than 30% from the year before. The Kansas Rig Count for the first week of the year was up two in eastern Kansas at 21 active rigs. West of Wichita, the count was unchanged at 28. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County. Operators were about to spud new wells in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties. The first new-locations report of the new year shows 17 new drilling permits across the state of Kansas. There were ten west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Operators have already completed 48 wells this year, with 24 east of Wichita and 24 in Western Kansas. Operators in Ellis County completed two wells last week. Crude inventories increase by 1.7 million barrels.. As of December 30th, the Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of 420.6 million barrels. That's about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. US crude production increased last week by nearly 100-thousand barrels per day. Output once again topped 12-million barrels per day after dropping below that mark the week before for the first time in seven weeks. U.S. crude oil imports dropped by more than half-a-million barrels per day. Four-week average imports are down nearly three percent from last year. Sanctions are beginning to take their toll in Russia. Russia's biggest crude-oil export grade is trading at less than $38 a barrel to an ever-shrinking customer base. That's less than half the international benchmark price and well below the $60 price cap set by the G7 nations in response to the Ukraine invasion. Market analysts say the world's third-largest crude importer continues to take advantage, buying large volumes of discounted Russian crude. India is now buying some of Russia's Arctic crude varieties for the first time. Norway became Germany’s largest natural gas supplier last year, overtaking Russia. German regulators say total gas imports dropped by 12.3% last year. Norway provided one-third of those gas deliveries. Russia claimed just 22 percent, compared to 52 percent the year before.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 9 John P. TretbarAfter posting weekly losses, crude prices rose two percent Monday, with the Nymex benchmark futures contract trading over $75 a barrel by midday. London Brent was just under $80 a barrel. Crude prices have dropped nearly twenty dollars per barrel in the last two months. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $64 a barrel at CHS in McPherson. Operators of the Keystone Pipeline took steps to divert a northeast Kansas creek around the area where the pipe spilled 14,000 barrels of crude oil on Dec. 8. TC Energy announced installation of water pumps and an above-ground bypass line, essentially a big hose, to temporarily re-route Mill Creek. As of January 2 the company Web site noted it had recovered 11,939 barrels of crude oil from the spill zone in Washington County. Kansas drilling notices were down in December but up for the year. The Kansas Corporation Commission okayed just 70 intent-to-drill notices last month statewide. That's roughly half the tallies from a &nbsp;month ago and a year ago. But the year-end total stands at 1,681, up by 30% from the year before. A search of the Web site at the KCC returns four new Barton County intents in December, three in Ellis County and three in Stafford County. That brings Barton County's tally for the year to 48 new drilling notices, up from 37 a year ago and 16 the year before that. Ellis County notched 55 intents last year, compared to 29 the year before and 16 for the year in 2020. Operators spudded 1,606 wells last year in Kansas, up more than 38% from the year before. Total footage topped 4.5 million feet, up more than 30% from the year before. The Kansas Rig Count for the first week of the year was up two in eastern Kansas at 21 active rigs. West of Wichita, the count was unchanged at 28. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports drilling underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County. Operators were about to spud new wells in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties. The first new-locations report of the new year shows 17 new drilling permits across the state of Kansas. There were ten west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Operators have already completed 48 wells this year, with 24 east of Wichita and 24 in Western Kansas. Operators in Ellis County completed two wells last week. Crude inventories increase by 1.7 million barrels.. As of December 30th, the Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of 420.6 million barrels. That's about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. US crude production increased last week by nearly 100-thousand barrels per day. Output once again topped 12-million barrels per day after dropping below that mark the week before for the first time in seven weeks. U.S. crude oil imports dropped by more than half-a-million barrels per day. Four-week average imports are down nearly three percent from last year. Sanctions are beginning to take their toll in Russia. Russia's biggest crude-oil export grade is trading at less than $38 a barrel to an ever-shrinking customer base. That's less than half the international benchmark price and well below the $60 price cap set by the G7 nations in response to the Ukraine invasion. Market analysts say the world's third-largest crude importer continues to take advantage, buying large volumes of discounted Russian crude. India is now buying some of Russia's Arctic crude varieties for the first time. Norway became Germany’s largest natural gas supplier last year, overtaking Russia. German regulators say total gas imports dropped by 12.3% last year. Norway provided one-third of those gas deliveries. Russia claimed just 22 percent, compared to 52 percent the year before.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Intents, spuds & footage up in 2022

Smoky Hills PBS will cover Governor Laura Kelly’s 2023 State of the State Address LIVE.&nbsp; This LIVE coverage will air on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 6:30 PM on Smoky&nbsp;Hills PBS.&nbsp;

During the annual State of the State speech, Governor Laura Kelly will address the Kansas Legislature and the public, outlining her administration's second term priorities.

After Governor Laura Kelly’s speech, Smoky Hills PBS will provide coverage of Senate President Ty Masterson’s response.

Streaming access will also be available on our YouTube channel and Smoky Hills PBS’ Facebook page.&nbsp;Click here for streaming access and to set your notification so you don’t miss this important speech:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/XoJWERxZt0I" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/XoJWERxZt0I</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBS will cover Governor Laura Kelly’s 2023 State of the State Address LIVE.&nbsp; This LIVE coverage will air on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 6:30 PM on Smoky&nbsp;Hills PBS.&nbsp;During the annual State of the State speech, Governor Laura Kelly will address the Kansas Legislature and the public, outlining her administration's second term priorities.After Governor Laura Kelly’s speech, Smoky Hills PBS will provide coverage of Senate President Ty Masterson’s response.Streaming access will also be available on our YouTube channel and Smoky Hills PBS’ Facebook page.&nbsp;Click here for streaming access and to set your notification so you don’t miss this important speech:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/XoJWERxZt0I" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/XoJWERxZt0I</a>

Smoky Hills PBS to air 2023 State of the State Address LIVE

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Dec. 14, 2022, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Jefferson ‑&nbsp;92‑44 KA‑5413‑01 ‑ K‑92, from K‑16 to Meredith Lane in McLouth, surfacing, 0.3 mile, Sands Construction LLC, Leavenworth, Kansas, $648,218.40.

Osage ‑&nbsp;75‑70 KA‑3899‑01 ‑ U.S. 75, bridge #093 over Dragoon Creek at Pomona Reservoir located 2.7 miles north of the U.S. 75/K‑31 junction, bridge removal, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $522,590.92.

Osage ‑&nbsp;75‑70 KA‑3900‑01 ‑ U.S. 75, bridge #125 over Dragoon Creek Drainage located 3.9 miles north of the U.S. 75/K‑268 junction, bridge removal, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $469,888.84.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑6676‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, from Merriam Lane north to the north radius of Pacific Avenue, overlay, 3.2 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,374,932.70.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑6800‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the east approach pavement of Quarry Road bridges #158 and #172 to the change in pavement approximately 285 feet east of the edge wearing surface of the Park/Kaw Drive bridges #096 and #167, overlay, 0.9 mile, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $9,227,456.10.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;35‑105 KA‑6801‑01 ‑ I‑35, at various sections and ramps from the county line to the state line, overlay, 3.7 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $10,832,352.05.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6695‑01 ‑ K‑110, from the K‑110/U.S. 36 junction north to the south city limits of Axtell; K‑178, from the U.S. 36/K‑178 junction north to the south city limits of St. Benedict; K‑187, from the K‑9/K‑187 junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑187 junction; and, K‑236, from the U.S. 36/K‑236 junction north to the south city limits of Oneida, milling and overlay, 14.8 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,183,730.76.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;70‑27 KA‑6538‑01 ‑ Light tower #1 (027L0001), Light tower #2 (027L0007), Light tower #3 (027L0012), Light tower #4 (027L0002), Light tower #5 (027L0009) and Light tower #6 (027L0010), lighting, Cooper Construction LLC, Emporia, Kansas, $284,611.50.

Geary ‑&nbsp;31 TE‑0498‑01 – K-18, from Karns Drive to Spring Valley Road, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $1,158,613.68.

Ottawa ‑&nbsp;81‑72 KA‑6057‑01 ‑ U.S. 81, from 9.6 miles north of the Saline/Ottawa county line north to 18.5 miles north of the Saline/Ottawa county line, overlay, 8.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $8,922,876.73.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;232‑106 KA‑6658‑01 ‑ K‑232, from the Old U.S. 40/K‑232 junction north to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line and from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line north to the Lincoln/Russell county line, sealing, 8.3 miles, Heft and Sons LLC, Greensburg, Kansas, $396,991.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;70‑106 KA‑6806‑01 ‑ I‑70, from approximately 876 feet east of mile marker #210 to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line includes bridges #003, #004, #014, #015, #016 and #017; from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line to the Lincoln/Saline county line includes bridges #002 and #003;and from the Lincoln/Saline county line east to 0.435 mile west of mile marker #245 includes bridges #044, #045, #053 and #054, grading and surfacing, 28.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $5,619,722.50.

Graham ‑&nbsp;24‑33 KA‑6720‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #043 over Sand Creek located 3.75 miles east of K‑84, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $717,220.80.

Crawford ‑&nbsp;69‑19 KA‑3928‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, bridge #004 over First Cow Creek Drainage located 2.25 miles north of the north junction of U.S. 69/U.S. 69 Alternate in the City of Frontenac, bridge replacement, Mission Construction Co. Inc., St. Paul, Kansas, $1,666,387.63.

Greenwood ‑&nbsp;400‑37 KA‑5790‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, from 11.2 miles east of the Butler/Greenwood county line east for 1.9 miles, grading and surfacing, 1.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $9,347,358.53.

Linn ‑&nbsp;152‑54 KA‑6318‑01 ‑ K‑152, from the K‑7/K‑152 junction to the U.S. 69/K‑152 junction, milling and overlay, 12.9 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $2,819,604.07.

Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5788‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from 0.7 mile north of the U.S. 169/K‑47 junction north for 1.8 miles, grading and surfacing, 1.8 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,592,327.12.

Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5789‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from 1.2 miles north of the Labette/Neosho county line north 2.3 miles, grading and surfacing, 2.3 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $8,346,246.81.

Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5789‑02 ‑ U.S. 169, from the Labette/Neosho county line north 7.05 miles to the south city limits of Thayer at the Portland cement concrete pavement excluding from 1.2 miles north of the Labette/Neosho county line north 2.3 miles covered by the passing lane project 169‑67 KA‑5789‑01, grading and surfacing, 4.8 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,727,657.47.

Edwards ‑&nbsp;24 C‑5076‑01 – Bridge over Rattlesnake Creek located 13.0 miles south and 2.5 miles west of Belpre, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $476,265.93.

Harvey ‑&nbsp;40 C‑5075‑01 – Bridge over Gypsum Creek located 2.5 miles east of Annelly, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $661,672.41.

Kiowa ‑&nbsp;54‑49 KA‑6636‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from a mile east of the east city limits of Greensburg east to the Kiowa/Pratt county line, milling and overlay, 13.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,272,568.60.

Pratt ‑&nbsp;54‑76 KA‑6637‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from the Kiowa/Pratt county line east to the west city limits of Pratt, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 14.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,578,918.80.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6263‑01 ‑ Routes K‑96 and K‑14 in the counties of Sedgwick, Reno and Butler, signing, Cooper Construction LLC, Emporia, Kansas, $815,656.50.

Ford ‑&nbsp;29 KA‑6526‑01 ‑ Intersections at U.S. 56/U.S. 400 and 112th Road, U.S. 283 and Outlaw Road, and 112th Road and Outlaw Road; 112th Road from Outlaw Road north to U.S. 56/U.S. 400 junction and Outlaw Road from U.S. 283 junction east to 112th Road, grading and surfacing, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $9,574,382.70.

Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑6526‑02 ‑ Intersection at U.S. 56/U.S. 400/U.S. 283 and 2nd Avenue south of Dodge City, intersection improvement, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $8,596,569.97.

Ford ‑&nbsp;400‑29 KA‑6630‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, from the east U.S. 50/U.S. 400 junction east to the west U.S. 56/U.S. 400 junction, milling and overlay, 3.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $945,318.90.

Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑6633‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the Ford/Gray county line east to U.S. 283/U.S. 56 junction, milling and overlay, 12.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,263,050.30.

Gray ‑&nbsp;56‑35 KA‑6631‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the east city limits of Montezuma east to the Ford/Gray county line, milling and overlay, 12.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,860,037.20.

The following bid was approved from the Oct. 19, 2022, letting.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 N‑0716‑01 – Various locations in the Kansas City metro area, intelligent transportation systems, Custom Lighting Services LLC DBA Black and McDonald, Kansas City, Missouri, $764,026.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630718677908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Dec. 14, 2022, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastJefferson ‑&nbsp;92‑44 KA‑5413‑01 ‑ K‑92, from K‑16 to Meredith Lane in McLouth, surfacing, 0.3 mile, Sands Construction LLC, Leavenworth, Kansas, $648,218.40.Osage ‑&nbsp;75‑70 KA‑3899‑01 ‑ U.S. 75, bridge #093 over Dragoon Creek at Pomona Reservoir located 2.7 miles north of the U.S. 75/K‑31 junction, bridge removal, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $522,590.92.Osage ‑&nbsp;75‑70 KA‑3900‑01 ‑ U.S. 75, bridge #125 over Dragoon Creek Drainage located 3.9 miles north of the U.S. 75/K‑268 junction, bridge removal, Killough Construction Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $469,888.84.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑6676‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, from Merriam Lane north to the north radius of Pacific Avenue, overlay, 3.2 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,374,932.70.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑6800‑01 ‑ I‑70, from the east approach pavement of Quarry Road bridges #158 and #172 to the change in pavement approximately 285 feet east of the edge wearing surface of the Park/Kaw Drive bridges #096 and #167, overlay, 0.9 mile, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $9,227,456.10.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;35‑105 KA‑6801‑01 ‑ I‑35, at various sections and ramps from the county line to the state line, overlay, 3.7 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $10,832,352.05.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6695‑01 ‑ K‑110, from the K‑110/U.S. 36 junction north to the south city limits of Axtell; K‑178, from the U.S. 36/K‑178 junction north to the south city limits of St. Benedict; K‑187, from the K‑9/K‑187 junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑187 junction; and, K‑236, from the U.S. 36/K‑236 junction north to the south city limits of Oneida, milling and overlay, 14.8 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,183,730.76.District Two — North CentralEllsworth ‑&nbsp;70‑27 KA‑6538‑01 ‑ Light tower #1 (027L0001), Light tower #2 (027L0007), Light tower #3 (027L0012), Light tower #4 (027L0002), Light tower #5 (027L0009) and Light tower #6 (027L0010), lighting, Cooper Construction LLC, Emporia, Kansas, $284,611.50.Geary ‑&nbsp;31 TE‑0498‑01 – K-18, from Karns Drive to Spring Valley Road, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $1,158,613.68.Ottawa ‑&nbsp;81‑72 KA‑6057‑01 ‑ U.S. 81, from 9.6 miles north of the Saline/Ottawa county line north to 18.5 miles north of the Saline/Ottawa county line, overlay, 8.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $8,922,876.73.Statewide ‑&nbsp;232‑106 KA‑6658‑01 ‑ K‑232, from the Old U.S. 40/K‑232 junction north to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line and from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line north to the Lincoln/Russell county line, sealing, 8.3 miles, Heft and Sons LLC, Greensburg, Kansas, $396,991.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;70‑106 KA‑6806‑01 ‑ I‑70, from approximately 876 feet east of mile marker #210 to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line includes bridges #003, #004, #014, #015, #016 and #017; from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line to the Lincoln/Saline county line includes bridges #002 and #003;and from the Lincoln/Saline county line east to 0.435 mile west of mile marker #245 includes bridges #044, #045, #053 and #054, grading and surfacing, 28.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $5,619,722.50.District Three — NorthwestGraham ‑&nbsp;24‑33 KA‑6720‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #043 over Sand Creek located 3.75 miles east of K‑84, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $717,220.80.District Four — SoutheastCrawford ‑&nbsp;69‑19 KA‑3928‑01 ‑ U.S. 69, bridge #004 over First Cow Creek Drainage located 2.25 miles north of the north junction of U.S. 69/U.S. 69 Alternate in the City of Frontenac, bridge replacement, Mission Construction Co. Inc., St. Paul, Kansas, $1,666,387.63.Greenwood ‑&nbsp;400‑37 KA‑5790‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, from 11.2 miles east of the Butler/Greenwood county line east for 1.9 miles, grading and surfacing, 1.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $9,347,358.53.Linn ‑&nbsp;152‑54 KA‑6318‑01 ‑ K‑152, from the K‑7/K‑152 junction to the U.S. 69/K‑152 junction, milling and overlay, 12.9 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $2,819,604.07.Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5788‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from 0.7 mile north of the U.S. 169/K‑47 junction north for 1.8 miles, grading and surfacing, 1.8 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,592,327.12.Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5789‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from 1.2 miles north of the Labette/Neosho county line north 2.3 miles, grading and surfacing, 2.3 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $8,346,246.81.Neosho ‑&nbsp;169‑67 KA‑5789‑02 ‑ U.S. 169, from the Labette/Neosho county line north 7.05 miles to the south city limits of Thayer at the Portland cement concrete pavement excluding from 1.2 miles north of the Labette/Neosho county line north 2.3 miles covered by the passing lane project 169‑67 KA‑5789‑01, grading and surfacing, 4.8 miles, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $6,727,657.47.District Five — South CentralEdwards ‑&nbsp;24 C‑5076‑01 – Bridge over Rattlesnake Creek located 13.0 miles south and 2.5 miles west of Belpre, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $476,265.93.Harvey ‑&nbsp;40 C‑5075‑01 – Bridge over Gypsum Creek located 2.5 miles east of Annelly, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $661,672.41.Kiowa ‑&nbsp;54‑49 KA‑6636‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from a mile east of the east city limits of Greensburg east to the Kiowa/Pratt county line, milling and overlay, 13.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,272,568.60.Pratt ‑&nbsp;54‑76 KA‑6637‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from the Kiowa/Pratt county line east to the west city limits of Pratt, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 14.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,578,918.80.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6263‑01 ‑ Routes K‑96 and K‑14 in the counties of Sedgwick, Reno and Butler, signing, Cooper Construction LLC, Emporia, Kansas, $815,656.50.District Six — SouthwestFord ‑&nbsp;29 KA‑6526‑01 ‑ Intersections at U.S. 56/U.S. 400 and 112th Road, U.S. 283 and Outlaw Road, and 112th Road and Outlaw Road; 112th Road from Outlaw Road north to U.S. 56/U.S. 400 junction and Outlaw Road from U.S. 283 junction east to 112th Road, grading and surfacing, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $9,574,382.70.Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑6526‑02 ‑ Intersection at U.S. 56/U.S. 400/U.S. 283 and 2nd Avenue south of Dodge City, intersection improvement, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $8,596,569.97.Ford ‑&nbsp;400‑29 KA‑6630‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, from the east U.S. 50/U.S. 400 junction east to the west U.S. 56/U.S. 400 junction, milling and overlay, 3.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $945,318.90.Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑6633‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the Ford/Gray county line east to U.S. 283/U.S. 56 junction, milling and overlay, 12.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,263,050.30.Gray ‑&nbsp;56‑35 KA‑6631‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, from the east city limits of Montezuma east to the Ford/Gray county line, milling and overlay, 12.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,860,037.20.The following bid was approved from the Oct. 19, 2022, letting.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 N‑0716‑01 – Various locations in the Kansas City metro area, intelligent transportation systems, Custom Lighting Services LLC DBA Black and McDonald, Kansas City, Missouri, $764,026.00.

KDOT announces approved December bids

The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office informed the public they
are searching for several passengers that fled following an accident. 
 
Around 5:15 a.m., a non-injury accident occurred at the US 56 Highway and US
183 junction in Pawnee County. There were 13 Hispanics from the SUV involved,
and they fled west from the scene. 
 
The Sheriff’s Office noted, on social media, that five of those individuals
have been detained, but two females and six males are still at large. 
 
The Sheriff’s Office asked the public to call local law enforcement or 911 if
they have information the subjects’ whereabouts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673301210280.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office informed the public they
are searching for several passengers that fled following an accident. 
 
Around 5:15 a.m., a non-injury accident occurred at the US 56 Highway and US
183 junction in Pawnee County. There were 13 Hispanics from the SUV involved,
and they fled west from the scene. 
 
The Sheriff’s Office noted, on social media, that five of those individuals
have been detained, but two females and six males are still at large. 
 
The Sheriff’s Office asked the public to call local law enforcement or 911 if
they have information the subjects’ whereabouts.

Pawnee Co. law enforcement looking for subjects that fled from accident

January is School Board Appreciation Month, a great opportunity to say thank you to the USD 428 Board of Education who are committed to the success of every student on our community.

Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education members include, Jacquie Disque, president, Aaron Emerson, vice-president, Chad Burroughs, Deanna Essmiller, Lori Reneau, Chris Umphres, and Susan Young.

Elected at-large to serve a four-year term, these seven community leaders volunteer hundreds of hours attending meetings, reading reports, and discussing plans and programs to support educational achievement in Great Bend Public Schools.

“Our board members develop policies and make complex decisions that not only keep our district running, but also shape the future,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “I appreciate their ability to guide our district with caring and compassionate leadership.”

A board member’s responsibility goes far beyond the monthly meetings. In Great Bend, BOE members oversee operations for nearly 2,900 students, 700 employees, and 12 buildings.

“We are fortunate to have this dedicated group of individuals who are engaged in in our schools, connected with the community, and advocate for student success locally and with legislators and policy makers across the State,” said Thexton.

USD 428 encourages the community to join-in by thanking school board members for their work this month and throughout the year. Notes of gratitude and encouragement can be posted on the USD 428 social media pages or sent to the District Education Center, c/o Cathie McManaman, 201 S Patton Rd, Great Bend, KS.

The USD 428 Board of Education meets regularly on the second Monday of the month at 5 p.m. at the USD 428 District Education Center. More information about the USD 428 Board of Education, as well as archived board reports, can be found at GreatBendSchools.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673294183348.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>January is School Board Appreciation Month, a great opportunity to say thank you to the USD 428 Board of Education who are committed to the success of every student on our community.Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education members include, Jacquie Disque, president, Aaron Emerson, vice-president, Chad Burroughs, Deanna Essmiller, Lori Reneau, Chris Umphres, and Susan Young.Elected at-large to serve a four-year term, these seven community leaders volunteer hundreds of hours attending meetings, reading reports, and discussing plans and programs to support educational achievement in Great Bend Public Schools.“Our board members develop policies and make complex decisions that not only keep our district running, but also shape the future,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “I appreciate their ability to guide our district with caring and compassionate leadership.”A board member’s responsibility goes far beyond the monthly meetings. In Great Bend, BOE members oversee operations for nearly 2,900 students, 700 employees, and 12 buildings.“We are fortunate to have this dedicated group of individuals who are engaged in in our schools, connected with the community, and advocate for student success locally and with legislators and policy makers across the State,” said Thexton.USD 428 encourages the community to join-in by thanking school board members for their work this month and throughout the year. Notes of gratitude and encouragement can be posted on the USD 428 social media pages or sent to the District Education Center, c/o Cathie McManaman, 201 S Patton Rd, Great Bend, KS.The USD 428 Board of Education meets regularly on the second Monday of the month at 5 p.m. at the USD 428 District Education Center. More information about the USD 428 Board of Education, as well as archived board reports, can be found at GreatBendSchools.net.

USD 428 Board members lead for the future

Action from the Monday, January 9, 2023, Barton County Commission meeting:

OLD BUSINESS - -There is no Old Business at this time. 

Recognition of Outgoing Officials – Commissioners Kirby Krier,  Jon Prescott and Jennifer Schartz were given an opportunity to speak.  Chairman Shawn Prescott followed with a thank you to each. 

RECESS FOR SWEARING IN OF OFFICIALS:  -The following officials were sworn in:  Duane Reif, Tricia Schlessiger and Donna Zimmerman, Commissioners, and Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk. 

  RETURN – The Commission returned to Chambers at 9:45 a.m.

NEW BUSINESS - ELECTION FOR CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS:  -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, provided details.  Shawn Hutchinson was elected as Chairman for 2023. 

 ELECTION FOR CHAIRMAN PRO TEM OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS:  -Barb Esfeld was elected as Chairman Pro Tem. 

 COMMISSIONERS:  Recognition of Out-Going County Commissioners:  -Commissioner Esfeld and Chairman Hutchinson presented clocks to Commissioners Prescott and Schartz.  Commissioner Krier received his earlier in the day. 

 RESOLUTION 2023-03:   Requesting a Waiver Under K.S.A. 75-1120a:  -Mr. Patzner provided details.  It is standard procedure to request a waiver of the requirements of K.S.A. 75-1120a relating to the preparation of financial statements and financial reports each year.  The basis is that statements prepared in conformity with this statute are of no significant value to Barton County nor to the general public.   The Resolution was adopted. 

RESOLUTION 2023-04:  Designation of the Official County Newspaper:  -Mr. Patzner provided details.  Adopted Resolution 2023-04 calls for the designation of the Great Bend Tribune as the official County newspaper. 

 RESOLUTION:  A Resolution Establishing Procedures for Certain Economic and Community Development Expenditures:  -No action was taken.

RESOLUTION:  A Resolution Establishing a Salary Policy for Elected Officials:  -The Commission opted to vote down this Resolution. 

 NORTH HOMESTEAD TOWNSHIP:  Board Appointment:  -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will provide details.    Angi Beck has resigned from the position of North Homestead Township Treasurer.  The remaining North Homestead Township board members have nominated Richard Lacey to fulfill the term of Township Treasurer.  The Commission approved that appointment. 

 ANNOUNCEMENTS:  -County officials may attend the Kansas Association of Counties 2023 New Commissioners Orientation on January 11 – 13, 2023, at the Hotel Topeka at City Center, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kansas  AND  County officials may attend the Ellinwood Chamber Banquet on Saturday, January 14, 2023.  The event, held at the Dos Amigos Restaurant, 111 East 1st, Ellinwood, Kansas, begins with a 5:30 p.m. social hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010086631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Action from the Monday, January 9, 2023, Barton County Commission meeting:OLD BUSINESS - -There is no Old Business at this time. Recognition of Outgoing Officials – Commissioners Kirby Krier, Jon Prescott and Jennifer Schartz were given an opportunity to speak. Chairman Shawn Prescott followed with a thank you to each. RECESS FOR SWEARING IN OF OFFICIALS: -The following officials were sworn in: Duane Reif, Tricia Schlessiger and Donna Zimmerman, Commissioners, and Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk. RETURN – The Commission returned to Chambers at 9:45 a.m.NEW BUSINESS - ELECTION FOR CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS: -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, provided details. Shawn Hutchinson was elected as Chairman for 2023. ELECTION FOR CHAIRMAN PRO TEM OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS: -Barb Esfeld was elected as Chairman Pro Tem. COMMISSIONERS: Recognition of Out-Going County Commissioners: -Commissioner Esfeld and Chairman Hutchinson presented clocks to Commissioners Prescott and Schartz. Commissioner Krier received his earlier in the day. RESOLUTION 2023-03: Requesting a Waiver Under K.S.A. 75-1120a: -Mr. Patzner provided details. It is standard procedure to request a waiver of the requirements of K.S.A. 75-1120a relating to the preparation of financial statements and financial reports each year. The basis is that statements prepared in conformity with this statute are of no significant value to Barton County nor to the general public. The Resolution was adopted. RESOLUTION 2023-04: Designation of the Official County Newspaper: -Mr. Patzner provided details. Adopted Resolution 2023-04 calls for the designation of the Great Bend Tribune as the official County newspaper. RESOLUTION: A Resolution Establishing Procedures for Certain Economic and Community Development Expenditures: -No action was taken.RESOLUTION: A Resolution Establishing a Salary Policy for Elected Officials: -The Commission opted to vote down this Resolution. NORTH HOMESTEAD TOWNSHIP: Board Appointment: -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will provide details. Angi Beck has resigned from the position of North Homestead Township Treasurer. The remaining North Homestead Township board members have nominated Richard Lacey to fulfill the term of Township Treasurer. The Commission approved that appointment. ANNOUNCEMENTS: -County officials may attend the Kansas Association of Counties 2023 New Commissioners Orientation on January 11 – 13, 2023, at the Hotel Topeka at City Center, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kansas AND County officials may attend the Ellinwood Chamber Banquet on Saturday, January 14, 2023. The event, held at the Dos Amigos Restaurant, 111 East 1st, Ellinwood, Kansas, begins with a 5:30 p.m. social hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Action from the Barton County Commission meeting (1/9)

Traveling through five states, the Santa Fe Trail was one of America's first interstate commercial highways in the early and mid-1800s. Traversing all of Kansas with final destinations in Santa Fe, New Mexico, or Independence, Mo., the trail passed through modern-day Fort Zarah and Fort Larned. Two hundred years later, the Santa Fe Trail Museum will feature a traveling exhibit about the importance of the trail.

"It was developed by the Santa Fe Trail Association in recognition for the bicentennial of the opening of the Santa Fe Trail," said Museum Director Seth McFarland. "It's traveling to different locations along the Santa Fe Trail, and we were fortunate enough to get it for this spring."

The timeline is 20 feet long, eight feet high, and features more than 150 significant places, people, and events along the trail, including brief commentary for each item. The display will be available at the Santa Fe Trail Museum from January through March, and features local history.

"It does feature the entire trail and points of interest along the trail," McFarland said. "Pawnee Rock and Fort Larned are both featured on there."

The timeline is part of a paid admission at the Santa Fe Trail Museum, located just west of Larned on K-156 Highway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672781290986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTraveling through five states, the Santa Fe Trail was one of America's first interstate commercial highways in the early and mid-1800s. Traversing all of Kansas with final destinations in Santa Fe, New Mexico, or Independence, Mo., the trail passed through modern-day Fort Zarah and Fort Larned. Two hundred years later, the Santa Fe Trail Museum will feature a traveling exhibit about the importance of the trail."It was developed by the Santa Fe Trail Association in recognition for the bicentennial of the opening of the Santa Fe Trail," said Museum Director Seth McFarland. "It's traveling to different locations along the Santa Fe Trail, and we were fortunate enough to get it for this spring."The timeline is 20 feet long, eight feet high, and features more than 150 significant places, people, and events along the trail, including brief commentary for each item. The display will be available at the Santa Fe Trail Museum from January through March, and features local history."It does feature the entire trail and points of interest along the trail," McFarland said. "Pawnee Rock and Fort Larned are both featured on there."The timeline is part of a paid admission at the Santa Fe Trail Museum, located just west of Larned on K-156 Highway.

Traveling Santa Fe Trail timeline makes winter stop in Larned

Great Bend Recreation Commission meeting Jan. 9 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center, 1214 Stone Street

1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests

2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: Dec. 12, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports

3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report - USD 428 / City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members' Comments

4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Health-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 November Attendance Report

5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Election of Officers &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Board Meeting Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 Board By Laws &nbsp; &nbsp;5.5 Basketball Rules

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291719070.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Recreation Commission meeting Jan. 9 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center, 1214 Stone StreetAgenda1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: Dec. 12, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report - USD 428 / City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members' Comments4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Health-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 November Attendance Report5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Election of Officers &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Board Meeting Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 Board By Laws &nbsp; &nbsp;5.5 Basketball Rules6. Other Business7. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec board meeting agenda (1/9)

The changing of the guard is complete. The Barton County Commission met away from its usual time Monday morning to swear in new Commissioners Duane Reif, Tricia Schlessiger and Donna Zimmerman. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson said goodbye to Commissioners Jennifer Schartz, Kirby Krier, and Jon Prescott.

"You have spent hours in meetings and on phone calls, and spent sleepless nights worried about our future," he said. "You've dedicated yourself, your family, and most importantly, your time to your district and to this county. You are appreciated and honored today for all that you have done. You have done your part in making Barton boom again."

Chief District Judge Steve Johnson swore in all three new commissioners, along with County Clerk Bev Schmeidler. "Congratulations to all those we swore in here today," he said. "You're starting off on an exciting adventure of fulfilling your duties to which you were elected."

Each of the outgoing commissioners spoke about their time on the commission. Prescott, who was appointed to the role in 2020, said it has been an honor and learning experience serving as commissioner.

"It's amazing how many moving parts and pieces there are that take place in this county," he said. "As a resident, I had no appreciation. If you don't have the knowledge, you can't appreciate. Being in this chair has given me knowledge, which thus gives me appreciation for what everyone does in this county."

Krier steps down from a third stint as commissioner after serving from 1999-2005, 2008-2011, and being appointed again in 2020. He served a different district in each term on the body. Krier said he was proud to be part of a commission that left the county with more than $11.5 million in reserves, a figure that more than doubled in his latest tenure.

Schartz spent 18 consecutive years representing the fifth district. She provided a laundry list of projects of which she was proud to be a part of.

"I've always seen myself as a public servant and not a politician," she said. "Whenever I would get thrown into that politician group, it always made my hackles come up because I don't see myself as that. I really just want to help my community be better."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673283538586.jpeg" alt="Chief Judge Steve Johnson swore new Barton County Commissioners Donna Zimmerman, Tricia Schlessiger, and Duane Reif in Monday morning." />
 <figcaption>Chief Judge Steve Johnson swore new Barton County Commissioners Donna Zimmerman, Tricia Schlessiger, and Duane Reif in Monday morning.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe changing of the guard is complete. The Barton County Commission met away from its usual time Monday morning to swear in new Commissioners Duane Reif, Tricia Schlessiger and Donna Zimmerman. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson said goodbye to Commissioners Jennifer Schartz, Kirby Krier, and Jon Prescott."You have spent hours in meetings and on phone calls, and spent sleepless nights worried about our future," he said. "You've dedicated yourself, your family, and most importantly, your time to your district and to this county. You are appreciated and honored today for all that you have done. You have done your part in making Barton boom again."Chief District Judge Steve Johnson swore in all three new commissioners, along with County Clerk Bev Schmeidler. "Congratulations to all those we swore in here today," he said. "You're starting off on an exciting adventure of fulfilling your duties to which you were elected."Each of the outgoing commissioners spoke about their time on the commission. Prescott, who was appointed to the role in 2020, said it has been an honor and learning experience serving as commissioner."It's amazing how many moving parts and pieces there are that take place in this county," he said. "As a resident, I had no appreciation. If you don't have the knowledge, you can't appreciate. Being in this chair has given me knowledge, which thus gives me appreciation for what everyone does in this county."Krier steps down from a third stint as commissioner after serving from 1999-2005, 2008-2011, and being appointed again in 2020. He served a different district in each term on the body. Krier said he was proud to be part of a commission that left the county with more than $11.5 million in reserves, a figure that more than doubled in his latest tenure.Schartz spent 18 consecutive years representing the fifth district. She provided a laundry list of projects of which she was proud to be a part of."I've always seen myself as a public servant and not a politician," she said. "Whenever I would get thrown into that politician group, it always made my hackles come up because I don't see myself as that. I really just want to help my community be better."

Three new Barton Co. Commissioners sworn into office

United Way of Central Kansas often provides for the essentials in life. It's nice to have a little fun as well. Box of Love returns this February with a Valentine's Day surprise for homebound seniors. The mini tote bags will be filled with a refrigerator memo magnet, facial tissue, word puzzles and a pencil, toothpaste and a toothbrush, chocolates, and non-slip fuzzy socks. Each package will also include homemade Valentine’s Day cards made by local kids. 

"This is just about bringing smiles to the faces of people in our community, I think a lot of times people forget about," said UWCK Director Charell Owings. "They're people that are receiving home healthcare services, or getting Meals on Wheels delivered to them, but otherwise, they don't have a whole lot of human contact. It's just another way to come into their homes and bring them a special little treat. They probably don't need, need any of the items that are in these bags, but there's something fun in it. It brings a smile to their face, and I think we can all use that most days."

UWCK works with nursing homes, ElderCare Home Services, Golden Belt Home Health &amp; Hospice, and Meals on Wheels to distribute these sweet goodie bags.

New this year, you can brighten someone’s day for only $10 a box, including delivery on Feb. 14. Boxes will be available for purchase from Jan. 1 through Feb. 6 for residents of Barton and Pawnee Counties. Forms are available via email (contact the UWCK Office at (620) 792-2403), or online at the <a href="https://www.uwck.org/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&amp;id=183">UWCK website. </a>

Anyone interested in making Valentine’s Day cards to be included in these packages can drop them off at:

· Ellinwood-Sunflower Bank · Great Bend-UWCK Office (Great Bend Chamber of Commerce) · Hoisington-First Kansas Bank · Larned-Chamber of Commerce

Boxes of Love would not be possible without the support of UWCK sponsors Cuna Mutual Group, University of Kansas Health Systems, Midwest Energy, and Thrivent Financial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672860509099.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Central Kansas often provides for the essentials in life. It's nice to have a little fun as well. Box of Love returns this February with a Valentine's Day surprise for homebound seniors. The mini tote bags will be filled with a refrigerator memo magnet, facial tissue, word puzzles and a pencil, toothpaste and a toothbrush, chocolates, and non-slip fuzzy socks. Each package will also include homemade Valentine’s Day cards made by local kids. "This is just about bringing smiles to the faces of people in our community, I think a lot of times people forget about," said UWCK Director Charell Owings. "They're people that are receiving home healthcare services, or getting Meals on Wheels delivered to them, but otherwise, they don't have a whole lot of human contact. It's just another way to come into their homes and bring them a special little treat. They probably don't need, need any of the items that are in these bags, but there's something fun in it. It brings a smile to their face, and I think we can all use that most days."UWCK works with nursing homes, ElderCare Home Services, Golden Belt Home Health &amp; Hospice, and Meals on Wheels to distribute these sweet goodie bags.New this year, you can brighten someone’s day for only $10 a box, including delivery on Feb. 14. Boxes will be available for purchase from Jan. 1 through Feb. 6 for residents of Barton and Pawnee Counties. Forms are available via email (contact the UWCK Office at (620) 792-2403), or online at the <a href="https://www.uwck.org/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&amp;id=183">UWCK website. </a>Anyone interested in making Valentine’s Day cards to be included in these packages can drop them off at:· Ellinwood-Sunflower Bank · Great Bend-UWCK Office (Great Bend Chamber of Commerce) · Hoisington-First Kansas Bank · Larned-Chamber of CommerceBoxes of Love would not be possible without the support of UWCK sponsors Cuna Mutual Group, University of Kansas Health Systems, Midwest Energy, and Thrivent Financial.

UWCK making Valentine's Day a little sweeter for homebound seniors

1/6 BOOKED: Crystal Horton on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Zackery Jacobs on Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Adalberton Rios on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKE: Joyce Garcia on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Damien Clone on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture a Controlled Substance, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of a Hallucinogenic Drug, and Possession of Marijuana, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Miguel Moreno on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

1/7 BOOKED: Jacob Meeks on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Atarah Walker on Great Bend&nbsp;Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery and Disorderly Conduct, no bond set.

RELEASED: Jacob Meeks on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Atarah Walker on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery and Disorderly Conduct, to Juvenile Intake Services.

1/8 BOOKED: Dalton Barger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Criminal Restraint and Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Colbi Brooks on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Speeding, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dewayne Patterson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Turn Signal, and Improper Driving, bond set at $,1000 C/S.

BOOKED: Deric Bentley on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Dalton Barger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Criminal Restraint and Domestic Battery, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Colbi Brooks on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Speeding, after posting $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Dewayne Patterson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Turn Signal, and Improper Driving, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Crystal Horton on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Deric Bentley on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Matthew Grandclair on Hoisington Municipal Court case, after serving sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>1/6 BOOKED: Crystal Horton on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Zackery Jacobs on Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Adalberton Rios on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKE: Joyce Garcia on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Damien Clone on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture a Controlled Substance, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of a Hallucinogenic Drug, and Possession of Marijuana, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Miguel Moreno on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.1/7 BOOKED: Jacob Meeks on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Atarah Walker on Great Bend&nbsp;Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery and Disorderly Conduct, no bond set.RELEASED: Jacob Meeks on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Atarah Walker on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery and Disorderly Conduct, to Juvenile Intake Services.1/8 BOOKED: Dalton Barger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Criminal Restraint and Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Colbi Brooks on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Speeding, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Dewayne Patterson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Turn Signal, and Improper Driving, bond set at $,1000 C/S.BOOKED: Deric Bentley on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.RELEASED: Dalton Barger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Criminal Restraint and Domestic Battery, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Colbi Brooks on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Speeding, after posting $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Dewayne Patterson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Turn Signal, and Improper Driving, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Crystal Horton on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Deric Bentley on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Matthew Grandclair on Hoisington Municipal Court case, after serving sentence.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (1/6 - 1/8)

New hotels, a sports complex, and new places to shop. For years, many in Great Bend have worked to make the city a Kansas destination. Those efforts really paid off in 2022. Not only were sales taxes up for the city last year, but the Transient Guest Tax which fully funds the Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, surpassed $400,000 for the first time since being implemented in the 1970s. CVB Director Christina Hayes said it all goes to benefit the city.

"I think some people don't realize those taxes go to help our community," she said. "They go to help fund the street department, the water department. They go help us create these retail events to bring in more dollars. All of it's important, and I think in 2022, that was a huge success."

Great Bend's Transient Guest Tax is six percent and, by state law, must be used to fund the CVB. The tax generated nearly $435,000 last  year, with $362,207 going to fully fund the CVB, and the remaining $72,441 going toward the Events Center.

"The CVB does have an Advisory Board that meets every other month and guides me on how to adequately use those dollars, and where we should focus our tourism efforts for the year," Hayes said.

Transient Guest Tax income gained steadily from $266,000 in 2013 to $349,000 in 2018. COVID-19 played a role in a dip over the next two years, but the tax drew in approximately 42 percent more in 2022 than it did in 2021 to generate $434,649 last year. Part of that is due to a rate increase, but the city is also becoming a destination.

"When the Expo grounds are full, the Events Center is full, and the sports complex is full on the whole year - we had no open weekends for those three venues," said Hayes. "What a great success on sales tax and Transient Guest Taxes for Great Bend."

Hayes will continue to use the money to promote Great Bend around the region, hosting more travel writers and working on Wayfinding signs in town. She continues to work with state tourism boards, and will again promote the city at the Omaha travel show and at another travel show in Texas.

"Over the years, we have found that it truly helps Great Bend to be at the table with other state tourism professionals," she said. "Therefore. we proudly represent our community statewide."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650479939753.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNew hotels, a sports complex, and new places to shop. For years, many in Great Bend have worked to make the city a Kansas destination. Those efforts really paid off in 2022. Not only were sales taxes up for the city last year, but the Transient Guest Tax which fully funds the Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, surpassed $400,000 for the first time since being implemented in the 1970s. CVB Director Christina Hayes said it all goes to benefit the city."I think some people don't realize those taxes go to help our community," she said. "They go to help fund the street department, the water department. They go help us create these retail events to bring in more dollars. All of it's important, and I think in 2022, that was a huge success."Great Bend's Transient Guest Tax is six percent and, by state law, must be used to fund the CVB. The tax generated nearly $435,000 last year, with $362,207 going to fully fund the CVB, and the remaining $72,441 going toward the Events Center."The CVB does have an Advisory Board that meets every other month and guides me on how to adequately use those dollars, and where we should focus our tourism efforts for the year," Hayes said.Transient Guest Tax income gained steadily from $266,000 in 2013 to $349,000 in 2018. COVID-19 played a role in a dip over the next two years, but the tax drew in approximately 42 percent more in 2022 than it did in 2021 to generate $434,649 last year. Part of that is due to a rate increase, but the city is also becoming a destination."When the Expo grounds are full, the Events Center is full, and the sports complex is full on the whole year - we had no open weekends for those three venues," said Hayes. "What a great success on sales tax and Transient Guest Taxes for Great Bend."Hayes will continue to use the money to promote Great Bend around the region, hosting more travel writers and working on Wayfinding signs in town. She continues to work with state tourism boards, and will again promote the city at the Omaha travel show and at another travel show in Texas."Over the years, we have found that it truly helps Great Bend to be at the table with other state tourism professionals," she said. "Therefore. we proudly represent our community statewide."

Great Bend benefitting from boost in transient guest tax

Today Sunny, with a high near 58. South southwest wind 7 to 15 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 29. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south-southwest after midnight.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. South wind 6 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Light and variable wind becoming west around 6 mph in the evening.

Wednesday A 20-percent chance of rain after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48. North wind 6 to 13 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.

Wednesday Night A chance of rain before 9 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow between 9 p.m. and midnight, then a slight chance of snow after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 42.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 20.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 46.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 58. South southwest wind 7 to 15 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 29. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south-southwest after midnight.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. South wind 6 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Light and variable wind becoming west around 6 mph in the evening.Wednesday A 20-percent chance of rain after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48. North wind 6 to 13 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.Wednesday Night A chance of rain before 9 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow between 9 p.m. and midnight, then a slight chance of snow after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 42.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 20.Friday Sunny, with a high near 46.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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