By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Each year, the Barton County Commission and other governing entities pay to use the Golden Belt Humane Society as the Animal Control Authority in their jurisdiction. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman recently updated the county's agreement so it will come before the governing body for review annually. Commissioner Barb Esfeld, who also serves on the GBHS board, explained the change at Wednesday's meeting.

"I think we were always reviewing it annually, but it really wasn't in the contract," she said. "Patrick looked it over for us, thank goodness, and there were a few changes, just mainly changing some words here and there that have changed over time."

The county agreed to pay GBHS $31,500 for the next year of services. Esfeld explained the facility currently has four full-time and four part-time employees. Though it is called a "no-kill" shelter, some dogs must be euthanized due to illness or injury. Still, the humane society puts down just about four percent of dogs, a significant decrease from the approximately 50-percent rate before Heather Acheson took over as director. Esfeld said that is just part of improvements to the local shelter.

"I've been to other shelters," she said. "It's extremely clean, by far cleaner than other ones. The animals are very well taken care of. They're taken on walks. They have a very big committee that just dedicates itself to fundraising. That's where the majority of the money comes from."

The Golden Belt Humane Society serves all of Barton County, including several rural communities, and assists with other shelters that reimburse GBHS. Golden Belt recently took in approximately 10 dogs from a large puppy mill in Conway Springs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670441471503.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEach year, the Barton County Commission and other governing entities pay to use the Golden Belt Humane Society as the Animal Control Authority in their jurisdiction. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman recently updated the county's agreement so it will come before the governing body for review annually. Commissioner Barb Esfeld, who also serves on the GBHS board, explained the change at Wednesday's meeting."I think we were always reviewing it annually, but it really wasn't in the contract," she said. "Patrick looked it over for us, thank goodness, and there were a few changes, just mainly changing some words here and there that have changed over time."The county agreed to pay GBHS $31,500 for the next year of services. Esfeld explained the facility currently has four full-time and four part-time employees. Though it is called a "no-kill" shelter, some dogs must be euthanized due to illness or injury. Still, the humane society puts down just about four percent of dogs, a significant decrease from the approximately 50-percent rate before Heather Acheson took over as director. Esfeld said that is just part of improvements to the local shelter."I've been to other shelters," she said. "It's extremely clean, by far cleaner than other ones. The animals are very well taken care of. They're taken on walks. They have a very big committee that just dedicates itself to fundraising. That's where the majority of the money comes from."The Golden Belt Humane Society serves all of Barton County, including several rural communities, and assists with other shelters that reimburse GBHS. Golden Belt recently took in approximately 10 dogs from a large puppy mill in Conway Springs.

Barton Commission updates Animal Control Authority Agreement

Circle C Paving will be doing crack sealing in Great Bend on Friday, Dec. 9 on Lakin Avenue between Baker Street and Main Street. The city will close the north side parking on Lakin Thursday, Dec. 8. It will be closed temporarily until Circle C is finished sealing.

The south side parking on Lakin in the same blocks will be closed the evening of Tuesday, Dec. 13 to allow Circle C to do work on the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 14. Again, this will be temporary until the work is done.

Please be careful and attentive when driving in this area. The City of Great Bend apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150, jcauley@greatbendks.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670527245205.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Circle C Paving will be doing crack sealing in Great Bend on Friday, Dec. 9 on Lakin Avenue between Baker Street and Main Street. The city will close the north side parking on Lakin Thursday, Dec. 8. It will be closed temporarily until Circle C is finished sealing.The south side parking on Lakin in the same blocks will be closed the evening of Tuesday, Dec. 13 to allow Circle C to do work on the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 14. Again, this will be temporary until the work is done.Please be careful and attentive when driving in this area. The City of Great Bend apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150, jcauley@greatbendks.net.

Lakin Avenue parking in GB to close for crack sealing project

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis that aired Dec. 7, 2022.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis that aired Dec. 7, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/4s2ltqhk/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎤City Edition: City Administrator Kendal Francis

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend Police Department has recently been operating at one over
their limit to be fully staffed. They’ll need that plus one as Corporal William
Browne has announced his retirement. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said Browne has been serving with
the police department for 33 years, and the city will host a retirement
celebration on Friday, Dec. 9. "There will be a come-and-go reception for Corporal Browne this Friday," said Francis. "It will start at 9 a.m. inside the municipal courtroom." 
Browne began working with the GBPD in 1989. A native of Colorado, Browne
advanced in rank starting as a patrolman. Graduating from Allen County Community
College, the Great Bend Police Department has been Browne’s only law
enforcement position.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670425275074.jpeg" alt="Corporal William Browne" />
 <figcaption>Corporal William Browne</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Police Department has recently been operating at one over
their limit to be fully staffed. They’ll need that plus one as Corporal William
Browne has announced his retirement. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said Browne has been serving with
the police department for 33 years, and the city will host a retirement
celebration on Friday, Dec. 9. "There will be a come-and-go reception for Corporal Browne this Friday," said Francis. "It will start at 9 a.m. inside the municipal courtroom." 
Browne began working with the GBPD in 1989. A native of Colorado, Browne
advanced in rank starting as a patrolman. Graduating from Allen County Community
College, the Great Bend Police Department has been Browne’s only law
enforcement position.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Browne retiring after 33 years with Great Bend Police

Great Bend Economic Development continues to work with their board,
architects and childcare consultants to finalize the planning for a new 4,500
square-foot daycare center. 
Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said their committee has gone to
weekly meeting times and hope to send their plan adaptation to the Kansas
Department of Health and Environment for review by the end of this week. &nbsp;"I am happy to see this progress to the point that it has," said Arnberger. "It certainly has taken some time, but we're getting a pretty cool product in the end I believe." 
The $1.6 million group daycare will be located on Farmers Plaza Lane, just
south of 10th Street near the K-96 Highway intersection. The daycare
will serve up to 59 children and is anticipated to be the first of multiple
daycares built around Barton County.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665631326785.jpeg" alt="4507 Farmers Plaza Ln, the site of a new daycare to be built in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>4507 Farmers Plaza Ln, the site of a new daycare to be built in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGreat Bend Economic Development continues to work with their board,
architects and childcare consultants to finalize the planning for a new 4,500
square-foot daycare center. 
Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said their committee has gone to
weekly meeting times and hope to send their plan adaptation to the Kansas
Department of Health and Environment for review by the end of this week. &nbsp;"I am happy to see this progress to the point that it has," said Arnberger. "It certainly has taken some time, but we're getting a pretty cool product in the end I believe." 
The $1.6 million group daycare will be located on Farmers Plaza Lane, just
south of 10th Street near the K-96 Highway intersection. The daycare
will serve up to 59 children and is anticipated to be the first of multiple
daycares built around Barton County.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Plans finalizing for Great Bend’s new daycare center

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (12/7) 
 
Medical Alarm 
 
At 3:37 a.m. a medical alarm was reported at 4600 Railroad Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 97 on S. US 281 Highway. 
 
Battery 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a battery was reported at 198 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:49 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 20 Road &amp; NE 20 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 4:21 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 424 W. Barton County Road. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (12/7) 
 
Theft 
 
At 12:10 a.m. Marie Lannan requested an area checked at 3120 Meadowlark. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 3:18 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 100 block of Kansas
Avenue. The vehicle was moved. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:25 p.m. a report of being bitten by her cat was made at 1610 Morton. 
 
Battery 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a report of battery was made at 198 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Narcotics Violatino 
 
At 2:32 p.m. Hunter Ward was arrested for possession of methamphetamine at 1806
12th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:28 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Morton. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 3:53 p.m. a vehicle parked on the wrong side of the road was reported at
2414 21st Street. 
 
At 4:28 p.m. a vehicle parked near a stop sign was reported at 21st
&amp; Harrison. 
 
Stalking 
 
At 9:47 p.m. a report of stalking was made at Broadway &amp; NW K-96 Highway. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:28 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 100 Hickory Street. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 11:46 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1014 Van Buren Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (12/7) 
 
Medical Alarm 
 
At 3:37 a.m. a medical alarm was reported at 4600 Railroad Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 97 on S. US 281 Highway. 
 
Battery 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a battery was reported at 198 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:49 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 20 Road &amp; NE 20 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 4:21 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 424 W. Barton County Road. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (12/7) 
 
Theft 
 
At 12:10 a.m. Marie Lannan requested an area checked at 3120 Meadowlark. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 3:18 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 100 block of Kansas
Avenue. The vehicle was moved. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:25 p.m. a report of being bitten by her cat was made at 1610 Morton. 
 
Battery 
 
At 1:37 p.m. a report of battery was made at 198 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Narcotics Violatino 
 
At 2:32 p.m. Hunter Ward was arrested for possession of methamphetamine at 1806
12th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:28 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Morton. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 3:53 p.m. a vehicle parked on the wrong side of the road was reported at
2414 21st Street. 
 
At 4:28 p.m. a vehicle parked near a stop sign was reported at 21st
&amp; Harrison. 
 
Stalking 
 
At 9:47 p.m. a report of stalking was made at Broadway &amp; NW K-96 Highway. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:28 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 100 Hickory Street. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 11:46 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1014 Van Buren Street.

Cop Shop (12/7)

12/7 BOOKED: Hailey Hicks on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Michele Greene on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Michael Moore, Jr., on Central Kansas Community Corrections case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Bryce Moran on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Hunter Ward on five Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $97,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Wayne Hunter on Barton County District Court case for Violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act x3, bond set at $40,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Hailey Hicks on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Kaden Pontius on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Illegal Transportation of Liquor, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Virdiana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Child Endangerment, and Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/7 BOOKED: Hailey Hicks on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Michele Greene on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Michael Moore, Jr., on Central Kansas Community Corrections case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Bryce Moran on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Hunter Ward on five Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $97,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Wayne Hunter on Barton County District Court case for Violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act x3, bond set at $40,000 C/S.RELEASED: Hailey Hicks on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Kaden Pontius on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Illegal Transportation of Liquor, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Virdiana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Child Endangerment, and Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (12/7)

Girls have been wrestling alongside boys for many years, but only since 2020 have the girls officially been recognized by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA). The sport has officially taken off in recent years, and now Great Bend is doing its part to ramp up the action. This Friday and Saturday, the Lady Panther wrestling team will host a two-day Christmas Clash - the first of its kind, according to Coach Nathan Broeckelman

"We're going to have some Christmas music playing in the background, we're going to have Christmas trees all over the place, have some fan gear out," he said. "It's going to be a good time."

In past years, Great Bend has hosted a junior varsity boys' tournament in the main gymnasium, with varsity girls wrestling in the Panther Activity Center. The two-day event will be a first for girls outside of state competition, and the Great Bend tournament will feature more than 30 teams, including No. 1 Dodge City, No. 3 Wichita North, and No. 6 Olathe West.

"A lot of the top-10 teams are coming out," Broeckelman said. "We want this to be a big premiere in Kansas wrestling for the girls. I've had a few college coaches asking me if we can get them on a pass gate to come start recruiting some girls."

Broeckelman said the local tournament will be modeled after Garden City's Rocky Welton Tournament that takes place in late January. The goal is not only to get the girls as many matches as possible in two days, but also to prepare them for bigger tournaments like state. 

"You have to make weight twice at state," said Broeckelman. "There's not ever a time girls have to do that except for at state, so it's a hard concept for some of them. Hopefully, this gives them a preview of that."

Great Bend had an individual state champion last year in Breanna Ridgeway, who has since graduated. Junior Daizy Gomez also medaled at state and returns as the lone ranked Lady Panther to open the season. Gomez and Katie Kuhlman won their weight classes Saturday in McPherson, and Kaylea McMullen and Kirra Stevens placed third.

Action begins at 3 p.m. on Friday and resumes at 8 a.m. Saturday morning in the Panther Activity Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670267185419.jpeg" alt="GBHS junior Daizy Gomez" />
 <figcaption>GBHS junior Daizy Gomez</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGirls have been wrestling alongside boys for many years, but only since 2020 have the girls officially been recognized by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA). The sport has officially taken off in recent years, and now Great Bend is doing its part to ramp up the action. This Friday and Saturday, the Lady Panther wrestling team will host a two-day Christmas Clash - the first of its kind, according to Coach Nathan Broeckelman"We're going to have some Christmas music playing in the background, we're going to have Christmas trees all over the place, have some fan gear out," he said. "It's going to be a good time."In past years, Great Bend has hosted a junior varsity boys' tournament in the main gymnasium, with varsity girls wrestling in the Panther Activity Center. The two-day event will be a first for girls outside of state competition, and the Great Bend tournament will feature more than 30 teams, including No. 1 Dodge City, No. 3 Wichita North, and No. 6 Olathe West."A lot of the top-10 teams are coming out," Broeckelman said. "We want this to be a big premiere in Kansas wrestling for the girls. I've had a few college coaches asking me if we can get them on a pass gate to come start recruiting some girls."Broeckelman said the local tournament will be modeled after Garden City's Rocky Welton Tournament that takes place in late January. The goal is not only to get the girls as many matches as possible in two days, but also to prepare them for bigger tournaments like state. "You have to make weight twice at state," said Broeckelman. "There's not ever a time girls have to do that except for at state, so it's a hard concept for some of them. Hopefully, this gives them a preview of that."Great Bend had an individual state champion last year in Breanna Ridgeway, who has since graduated. Junior Daizy Gomez also medaled at state and returns as the lone ranked Lady Panther to open the season. Gomez and Katie Kuhlman won their weight classes Saturday in McPherson, and Kaylea McMullen and Kirra Stevens placed third.Action begins at 3 p.m. on Friday and resumes at 8 a.m. Saturday morning in the Panther Activity Center.

Lady Panther wrestlers set to host Christmas Clash this weekend

Today A slight chance of rain or drizzle before 9 a.m., then areas of drizzle between 9 a.m. and noon. Areas of dense fog before noon. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. East wind 7 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 23. West wind 6 to 11 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. West northwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Friday Night A 20-percent chance of rain before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph becoming west after midnight.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 52. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 24.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 52. Breezy.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Monday A 20-percent chance of rain after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy.

Monday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Tuesday A slight chance of rain and snow. Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 22.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 38. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of rain or drizzle before 9 a.m., then areas of drizzle between 9 a.m. and noon. Areas of dense fog before noon. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. East wind 7 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 23. West wind 6 to 11 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. West northwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Friday Night A 20-percent chance of rain before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph becoming west after midnight.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 52. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 24.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 52. Breezy.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.Monday A 20-percent chance of rain after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.Tuesday A slight chance of rain and snow. Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 22.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 38. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

STAFFORD COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in Stafford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Ram pickup driven by Mark E. Hawkins, 21, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was&nbsp;northbound on NE 50th Avenue five miles east of St. John.

A 2006 Saturn Vue driven by Tate J. Martin, 17, Ellinwood, was westbound on NE 40th Street. 

Both vehicles entered the intersection at the same time. The Saturn struck the Dodge on the passenger side. After impact, both vehicles left the roadway and entered the west ditch on NE 50th Avenue.&nbsp;

EMS transported Tate to Wesley Medical Center where he died.&nbsp; EMS transported two passengers in the Dodge, 51-year-old Peter A.&nbsp;Laskowski of Stevens Point, Wisconsin and 52-year-old Gregory L. Witt of Moneta, Virginia to Pratt Regional Hospital where Laskowski died.

EMS transported Hawkins and a passenger in the Saturn, 17-year-old Trace L.&nbsp;Ritterhouse of Ellinwood, to the Stafford County Hospital and a third passenger in the Dodge 64-year-old Orville R. Meade of Verona, Virginia to the hospital in Great Bend. None of those involved were wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

STAFFORD COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in Stafford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Ram pickup driven by Mark E. Hawkins, 21, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was&nbsp;northbound on NE 50th Avenue five miles east of St. John.A 2006 Saturn Vue driven by Tate J. Martin, 17, Ellinwood, was westbound on NE 40th Street. Both vehicles entered the intersection at the same time. The Saturn struck the Dodge on the passenger side. After impact, both vehicles left the roadway and entered the west ditch on NE 50th Avenue.&nbsp;EMS transported Tate to Wesley Medical Center where he died.&nbsp; EMS transported two passengers in the Dodge, 51-year-old Peter A.&nbsp;Laskowski of Stevens Point, Wisconsin and 52-year-old Gregory L. Witt of Moneta, Virginia to Pratt Regional Hospital where Laskowski died.EMS transported Hawkins and a passenger in the Saturn, 17-year-old Trace L.&nbsp;Ritterhouse of Ellinwood, to the Stafford County Hospital and a third passenger in the Dodge 64-year-old Orville R. Meade of Verona, Virginia to the hospital in Great Bend. None of those involved were wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Ellinwood teen among two dead after SUV, pickup crash

The countdown has begun to the holiday season. Navigating the season and keeping up our healthy habits is always a challenge. So many temptations and busyness can de-rail anyone from good intentions. Donna Krug, Director and Family Consumer Science Extension Agent, and I recently presented about this topic in Great Bend. We found a great resource from Cleveland State University, entitled Healthy Holiday Survival Guide, that we included in our presentation. The tips below are meant to be simple and straight forward and not overwhelming. Keeping things simple during this season is key. So even if you only pick one or two items to be intentional about, that is a great approach to these suggestions.

1. Eat slowly-allow your brain to catch up and your body to feel satisfied by slowing down, putting your fork down, and visiting with those around you.

2. Drink water- sometimes our hunger cues are mistaken for being thirsty. Find a way to keep a water bottle near and drink water before attending events.

3. Don’t stress-easier said then done, I know! Prioritize what’s important and meaningful to you and your family and leave the rest. Find time for fun and relaxation.

4. Beware of liquid calories-alcohol, egg nog, soda, and lattes contain a lot of calories. Be aware of how many of these you drink because they go down easy and are often a forgotten source of calories.

5. Easy recipe substitutions-unsweetened applesauce for oil, lower fat milk for whole milk, whole wheat flour instead of white flour, extra virgin olive oil for butter, turkey instead of beef, low fat yogurt instead of sour cream, and herbs instead of salt are great substitutions that don’t sacrifice flavor.

6. Don’t forget to workout-find a way to be active even if you can’t get to the gym. Some examples include take the stairs, park farther away from doors, march in place or do squats during commercials when watching TV.

7. Wash your hands-because being sick during the holidays is no fun at all. Get rid of germs as often as possible by washing hands frequently.

8. Do something for others-it can be therapeutic to help others during the holiday season.

Which one or two will you choose to be intentional about this holiday season?

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522176561.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The countdown has begun to the holiday season. Navigating the season and keeping up our healthy habits is always a challenge. So many temptations and busyness can de-rail anyone from good intentions. Donna Krug, Director and Family Consumer Science Extension Agent, and I recently presented about this topic in Great Bend. We found a great resource from Cleveland State University, entitled Healthy Holiday Survival Guide, that we included in our presentation. The tips below are meant to be simple and straight forward and not overwhelming. Keeping things simple during this season is key. So even if you only pick one or two items to be intentional about, that is a great approach to these suggestions.1. Eat slowly-allow your brain to catch up and your body to feel satisfied by slowing down, putting your fork down, and visiting with those around you.2. Drink water- sometimes our hunger cues are mistaken for being thirsty. Find a way to keep a water bottle near and drink water before attending events.3. Don’t stress-easier said then done, I know! Prioritize what’s important and meaningful to you and your family and leave the rest. Find time for fun and relaxation.4. Beware of liquid calories-alcohol, egg nog, soda, and lattes contain a lot of calories. Be aware of how many of these you drink because they go down easy and are often a forgotten source of calories.5. Easy recipe substitutions-unsweetened applesauce for oil, lower fat milk for whole milk, whole wheat flour instead of white flour, extra virgin olive oil for butter, turkey instead of beef, low fat yogurt instead of sour cream, and herbs instead of salt are great substitutions that don’t sacrifice flavor.6. Don’t forget to workout-find a way to be active even if you can’t get to the gym. Some examples include take the stairs, park farther away from doors, march in place or do squats during commercials when watching TV.7. Wash your hands-because being sick during the holidays is no fun at all. Get rid of germs as often as possible by washing hands frequently.8. Do something for others-it can be therapeutic to help others during the holiday season.Which one or two will you choose to be intentional about this holiday season?Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Healthy holiday tips

Adams Brown has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms for 2023. This award recognizes firms that provide exceptional service and value to their clients. 

Selected for this recognition for the fourth consecutive year, Adams Brown is one of only three firms in Kansas to be included on the list.

Forbes determined results by surveying tax professionals and clients. The survey asked participants to select the top 10 tax and accounting firms they would recommend based on their professional experience. Firms that received the most recommendations were included on the list.

"Clients are looking for a firm that provides more than traditional tax or audit work. They are looking for strategic advisors invested in their success," said Brian Staats, managing partner of Adams Brown. "We are thankful to our hard-working team which provides clients with innovative business strategies and are honored that our clients recognize and recommended us as a top firm."

Adams Brown, Strategic Allies and CPAs, provides a wide range of traditional and specialized CPA and consulting services to clients throughout the nation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659978436526.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSAdams Brown has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms for 2023. This award recognizes firms that provide exceptional service and value to their clients. Selected for this recognition for the fourth consecutive year, Adams Brown is one of only three firms in Kansas to be included on the list.Forbes determined results by surveying tax professionals and clients. The survey asked participants to select the top 10 tax and accounting firms they would recommend based on their professional experience. Firms that received the most recommendations were included on the list."Clients are looking for a firm that provides more than traditional tax or audit work. They are looking for strategic advisors invested in their success," said Brian Staats, managing partner of Adams Brown. "We are thankful to our hard-working team which provides clients with innovative business strategies and are honored that our clients recognize and recommended us as a top firm."Adams Brown, Strategic Allies and CPAs, provides a wide range of traditional and specialized CPA and consulting services to clients throughout the nation.&nbsp;

Adams Brown named a Forbes 2023 Best Tax and Accounting Firm

In July 2021, a loft project was approved for funding by the Great Bend
City Council to provide $1 million to help reimburse property owners of
multi-story buildings in downtown Great Bend for the cost of renovations,
including the addition of fire sprinklers. 

In hopes of addressing housing
shortages and creating more commercial space, Great Bend Economic Development has
awarded one grant since opening the project. 
Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said staff is working with two
other property owners to award their grants soon and there are five others
working on plans. "I know to the community it's going so slowly," said Arnberger. "They don't get to see all the things going on in the background, and I know that's very hard. Trust me when I say there are some really exciting things taking place. There are some property owners working very hard to get these things in place." 
The loft project grant through Great Bend awards funds as a forgivable loan
with a 0% interest rate if the project is completed by the end of 2024. The
loan is in the amount of $5.50 per interior square foot. 
Great Bend received $2.27 million in federal COVID-19 pandemic relief aid, and
$1 million was designated for the loft project.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619035857799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn July 2021, a loft project was approved for funding by the Great Bend
City Council to provide $1 million to help reimburse property owners of
multi-story buildings in downtown Great Bend for the cost of renovations,
including the addition of fire sprinklers. In hopes of addressing housing
shortages and creating more commercial space, Great Bend Economic Development has
awarded one grant since opening the project. 
Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said staff is working with two
other property owners to award their grants soon and there are five others
working on plans. "I know to the community it's going so slowly," said Arnberger. "They don't get to see all the things going on in the background, and I know that's very hard. Trust me when I say there are some really exciting things taking place. There are some property owners working very hard to get these things in place." 
The loft project grant through Great Bend awards funds as a forgivable loan
with a 0% interest rate if the project is completed by the end of 2024. The
loan is in the amount of $5.50 per interior square foot. 
Great Bend received $2.27 million in federal COVID-19 pandemic relief aid, and
$1 million was designated for the loft project.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Progress moving slowly, but moving for Great Bend’s loft project

Each year the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recognizes some of the people who play an instrumental role in the community. Nomination forms have been extended through Dec. 31 at 5 p.m. for Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, and NextGen Leader of the Year. The winners will be announced at the chamber's 101st Annual Awards Night scheduled for Feb. 25, 2023. Chamber CEO Megan Barfield said the NextGen Leader award is handed out by the Barton County Young Professionals.

"That highlights a young professional that is serving his or her community," she said, "and just showing some leadership in an up-and-coming role and taking a real interest in being engaged in the community through volunteering and leadership."

The other awards are just what they say they are: highlighting an individual and a business that has served the community over the past year. 

"It's really a great way for chamber members to give a little nod of respect and say, 'Hey, we respect you. We appreciate you. Thank you for what you're doing for the business community and the community at large,'" Barfield said. "We're excited. It's so much fun to give those awards every single year."

In 2021, Bryant Funeral Services won the business award for the many services provided during COVID-19. "Unfortunately, that was a busy time for them," said Barfield. "That took a lot from their home and family, and a lot of sacrifices were given so they could provide comfort and services to families in need during the worst time in their lives, some of them."

The NextGen and individual winner will be kept secret prior to the Feb. 25 banquet. The Chamber Board's executive committee also retains the right to hand out an additional Legacy Award for any individual or business that has performed above and beyond throughout the year.

Chamber members can vote for the awards by visiting <a href="https://www.greatbend.org/">greatbend.org</a>, or by calling the chamber for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670356640744.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEach year the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recognizes some of the people who play an instrumental role in the community. Nomination forms have been extended through Dec. 31 at 5 p.m. for Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, and NextGen Leader of the Year. The winners will be announced at the chamber's 101st Annual Awards Night scheduled for Feb. 25, 2023. Chamber CEO Megan Barfield said the NextGen Leader award is handed out by the Barton County Young Professionals."That highlights a young professional that is serving his or her community," she said, "and just showing some leadership in an up-and-coming role and taking a real interest in being engaged in the community through volunteering and leadership."The other awards are just what they say they are: highlighting an individual and a business that has served the community over the past year. "It's really a great way for chamber members to give a little nod of respect and say, 'Hey, we respect you. We appreciate you. Thank you for what you're doing for the business community and the community at large,'" Barfield said. "We're excited. It's so much fun to give those awards every single year."In 2021, Bryant Funeral Services won the business award for the many services provided during COVID-19. "Unfortunately, that was a busy time for them," said Barfield. "That took a lot from their home and family, and a lot of sacrifices were given so they could provide comfort and services to families in need during the worst time in their lives, some of them."The NextGen and individual winner will be kept secret prior to the Feb. 25 banquet. The Chamber Board's executive committee also retains the right to hand out an additional Legacy Award for any individual or business that has performed above and beyond throughout the year.Chamber members can vote for the awards by visiting <a href="https://www.greatbend.org/">greatbend.org</a>, or by calling the chamber for more information.

Great Bend Chamber accepting nominations for annual awards

Action from the Wednesday, December 7, 2022, agenda:

APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS:  -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of November 23, 2022, and ending December 7, 2022. 

OLD BUSINESS - OCCUPANCY AGREEMENT: 12th and Kansas, Great Bend: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, provided details. As a means of community support, the State of Kansas Parole office is housed in the County office building at 1208 Kansas, Great Bend. This agency reimburses Barton County for a portion of the building’s utility costs. The adopted agreement will expire December 31, 2023.

NEW BUSINESS - COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, presented a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. It was approved.

GOLDEN BELT HUMANE SOCIETY:  Operational and Support Agreement:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;-Commissioner Barb Esfeld will present details.  The Golden Belt Humane Society offered an updated agreement to the County designating the Humane Society as the Animal Control Authority.  The one-year agreement was approved. 

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Operating Improvements: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Dereck Hollingshead, Information Technology Director, will provide details. Office 365 Business enables all computer users to have email hosting, protection and archiving as well as a desktop version of Office. The Commission approved the purchase of licensing of Office 365 Business Platform and Advanced Threat Protection from <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FTrue.Org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2Ak-UdU24aza-CyQ0mU6BzosypKRmOx19cIedb25U7gJQxifrjASZu7ug&amp;h=AT0m0xMn6LrBATDr_jO9UzRh34i2iaz8QZ5qNFXJKYsWyC5Hr5XOekprapMuoEB3YqC7Eb7c48gLjJpBEB12AnUt1BYxN9HaeECIYQhNWwtpwEV5Nae3s626JurFGDHHVzmN&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT30p5Jk4VN49oIXi3xSSwKW_u0BwWWbwsEbsPUToMdS4H2yXLbPlT1bROip0rdS9eXOvRzlazYdjzWNch46pSYvRGzQE03fcDEgwPi5_Vhv_avmX7smG-XcAO0qdKSDi0ZnwcZUSfX1I48h7Hezh1xvQMgpAPDD4a15D_w9BRlbDRXdqBXUhZcTAbtpfGuZ1LUnIaGsFG8" target="_blank">True.Org</a> Cloud. Total cost is $31,224.00, is to be paid from the 2023 Budget, General Fund, Information Technology.

DISTRICT CORONER: Appointment of Deputy Coroners and Special Deputy Coroners: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Mr. Patzner will provide details. In action taken last week, Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed to a four-year term as coroner beginning January, 2023. Dr. Stiles has subsequently made recommendation as to the appointment of Deputy Coroners and Special Deputy Coroners as prescribed by Kansas Statutes and by Resolution 2006-11, District Coroner. Deputies serve a four-year term equal to that of the Coroner and Special Deputies serve one-year calendar terms.

 Commissioner Kirby Krier discussed air quality in County buildings and possibly moving the Treasurer’s Office to the first floor of the Courthouse. 

 Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, discussed tax statement mailings.  The process of mailing tax statements is hampered by the receipt of information from 56 different taxing entities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Action from the Wednesday, December 7, 2022, agenda:APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of November 23, 2022, and ending December 7, 2022. OLD BUSINESS - OCCUPANCY AGREEMENT: 12th and Kansas, Great Bend: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, provided details. As a means of community support, the State of Kansas Parole office is housed in the County office building at 1208 Kansas, Great Bend. This agency reimburses Barton County for a portion of the building’s utility costs. The adopted agreement will expire December 31, 2023. NEW BUSINESS - COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, presented a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. It was approved.GOLDEN BELT HUMANE SOCIETY: Operational and Support Agreement:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;-Commissioner Barb Esfeld will present details. The Golden Belt Humane Society offered an updated agreement to the County designating the Humane Society as the Animal Control Authority. The one-year agreement was approved. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Operating Improvements: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Dereck Hollingshead, Information Technology Director, will provide details. Office 365 Business enables all computer users to have email hosting, protection and archiving as well as a desktop version of Office. The Commission approved the purchase of licensing of Office 365 Business Platform and Advanced Threat Protection from <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FTrue.Org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2Ak-UdU24aza-CyQ0mU6BzosypKRmOx19cIedb25U7gJQxifrjASZu7ug&amp;h=AT0m0xMn6LrBATDr_jO9UzRh34i2iaz8QZ5qNFXJKYsWyC5Hr5XOekprapMuoEB3YqC7Eb7c48gLjJpBEB12AnUt1BYxN9HaeECIYQhNWwtpwEV5Nae3s626JurFGDHHVzmN&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT30p5Jk4VN49oIXi3xSSwKW_u0BwWWbwsEbsPUToMdS4H2yXLbPlT1bROip0rdS9eXOvRzlazYdjzWNch46pSYvRGzQE03fcDEgwPi5_Vhv_avmX7smG-XcAO0qdKSDi0ZnwcZUSfX1I48h7Hezh1xvQMgpAPDD4a15D_w9BRlbDRXdqBXUhZcTAbtpfGuZ1LUnIaGsFG8" target="_blank">True.Org</a> Cloud. Total cost is $31,224.00, is to be paid from the 2023 Budget, General Fund, Information Technology. DISTRICT CORONER: Appointment of Deputy Coroners and Special Deputy Coroners: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Mr. Patzner will provide details. In action taken last week, Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed to a four-year term as coroner beginning January, 2023. Dr. Stiles has subsequently made recommendation as to the appointment of Deputy Coroners and Special Deputy Coroners as prescribed by Kansas Statutes and by Resolution 2006-11, District Coroner. Deputies serve a four-year term equal to that of the Coroner and Special Deputies serve one-year calendar terms. Commissioner Kirby Krier discussed air quality in County buildings and possibly moving the Treasurer’s Office to the first floor of the Courthouse. Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, discussed tax statement mailings. The process of mailing tax statements is hampered by the receipt of information from 56 different taxing entities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Action from the Barton County Commission meeting (12/7)

Hear this month's Kansas Wetlands Education Center show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and KWEC Director Curtis Wolf that aired Dec. 5, 2022.&nbsp;

The KWEC Show airs the first Monday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Kansas Wetlands Education Center show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and KWEC Director Curtis Wolf that aired Dec. 5, 2022.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/mp0hnedl/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The KWEC Show airs the first Monday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎤KS Wetlands Education Center Show: Director Curtis Wolf

A tame Barton County Commission meeting turned into a lively conversation about tax statements Wednesday morning. The county recently mailed out property tax statements, which has prompted many phone calls to various officials. Treasurer Jim Jordan addressed the commission.

"The treasurer's office, the only thing we do, or are responsible for, is sending out tax statements," he said. "That's it. We don't put the numbers together, we don't do anything, we just send them out. In order for the treasurer's office to send out the tax statements, we have to have the correct numbers. I don't get the correct numbers until the clerk rolls the tax rolls."

After a lengthy discussion about taxing entities that are shared between counties, sometimes causing delays, Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson explained the process in its barest form. 

"All of those 56 taxing entities need to report to the clerk's office before the clerk can report to the treasurer's office, then the treasurer sends out the tax statements," he said. "If one of those 56 entities is lagging behind for whatever reason, we can't send out any tax statements."

Former County Clerk and Commissioner-Elect Donna Zimmerman explained how the state handled one of the shared districts in the past.

"The state a few years ago set a precedent in that we are part of one of the largest joint districts in Barton County being the Central Kansas Library District," she said. "There are 16 counties, so you've got a lot of movement of valuations and a lot of publications that have to occur. A few years ago, they allowed that as the only district to be set with a mill levy on the July values."

County appraiser Wendy Prosser said just 2.9 percent of property taxes statewide come from personal property taxes. With vehicles, trailers, and watercraft, there is some fluctuation between the July 1 and Nov. 1 valuations, but smaller counties like Barton are not usually affected. 

The commissioners and department heads agreed moving back the valuation date to Oct. 1 could be a practical solution that needs to be addressed at the state level. 

Zimmerman said the passage of Senate Bill 13 relating to Revenue Neutral Rates has not helped the process, and Commissioners Kirby Krier and Jon Prescott suggested the state legislature should abolish the bill entirely. Until then, county offices are forced to deal with tight timelines. The clerk's office recently held a general election as the final tax rolls were coming in. Jordan's staff at the treasurer's office is now on overtime.

"If we get them out earlier in the treasurer's office, we have a longer period of time to enter them," Jordan said. "Now we have a shorter time to enter them because we have to have them entered by Dec. 31. Now my employees, every day we're doing 10 hours and Saturdays trying to get all those entered because they come in so fast, because people are trying to get them paid by the 20th. I'm as frustrated as the citizens and taxpayers are."

"That creates a financial hardship for our county," said Prescott. "We're paying overtime rates to jump, last minute. That's unfair to our county."

Commissioner Barb Esfeld said, in the least, Senate Bill 13 needs to be changed during the upcoming legislative session. Krier and Prescott reiterated the entire bill needs to be scrapped.

"To change this, we need to all get involved, not just the commissioners but everybody county-wide," Prescott said. "We need to get ahold of our representatives, and we can get their email or their phone numbers off their websites. We need to start with Alicia Straub, Tori Arnberger (Blew), Troy Waymaster, and Brett Fairchild, and reach out to them, and say abolish Senate Bill 13. Sweet and simple."

Jordan did offer a partial solution to frustrated taxpayers. Tax bills are posted on the county's website approximately three weeks ahead of when they arrive in the mail. Property owners can find their bills and pay them by <a href="https://ks761.cichosting.com/ttp/tax/search/search_tax.aspx">CLICKING HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669916092590.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA tame Barton County Commission meeting turned into a lively conversation about tax statements Wednesday morning. The county recently mailed out property tax statements, which has prompted many phone calls to various officials. Treasurer Jim Jordan addressed the commission."The treasurer's office, the only thing we do, or are responsible for, is sending out tax statements," he said. "That's it. We don't put the numbers together, we don't do anything, we just send them out. In order for the treasurer's office to send out the tax statements, we have to have the correct numbers. I don't get the correct numbers until the clerk rolls the tax rolls."After a lengthy discussion about taxing entities that are shared between counties, sometimes causing delays, Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson explained the process in its barest form. "All of those 56 taxing entities need to report to the clerk's office before the clerk can report to the treasurer's office, then the treasurer sends out the tax statements," he said. "If one of those 56 entities is lagging behind for whatever reason, we can't send out any tax statements."Former County Clerk and Commissioner-Elect Donna Zimmerman explained how the state handled one of the shared districts in the past."The state a few years ago set a precedent in that we are part of one of the largest joint districts in Barton County being the Central Kansas Library District," she said. "There are 16 counties, so you've got a lot of movement of valuations and a lot of publications that have to occur. A few years ago, they allowed that as the only district to be set with a mill levy on the July values."County appraiser Wendy Prosser said just 2.9 percent of property taxes statewide come from personal property taxes. With vehicles, trailers, and watercraft, there is some fluctuation between the July 1 and Nov. 1 valuations, but smaller counties like Barton are not usually affected. The commissioners and department heads agreed moving back the valuation date to Oct. 1 could be a practical solution that needs to be addressed at the state level. Zimmerman said the passage of Senate Bill 13 relating to Revenue Neutral Rates has not helped the process, and Commissioners Kirby Krier and Jon Prescott suggested the state legislature should abolish the bill entirely. Until then, county offices are forced to deal with tight timelines. The clerk's office recently held a general election as the final tax rolls were coming in. Jordan's staff at the treasurer's office is now on overtime."If we get them out earlier in the treasurer's office, we have a longer period of time to enter them," Jordan said. "Now we have a shorter time to enter them because we have to have them entered by Dec. 31. Now my employees, every day we're doing 10 hours and Saturdays trying to get all those entered because they come in so fast, because people are trying to get them paid by the 20th. I'm as frustrated as the citizens and taxpayers are.""That creates a financial hardship for our county," said Prescott. "We're paying overtime rates to jump, last minute. That's unfair to our county."Commissioner Barb Esfeld said, in the least, Senate Bill 13 needs to be changed during the upcoming legislative session. Krier and Prescott reiterated the entire bill needs to be scrapped."To change this, we need to all get involved, not just the commissioners but everybody county-wide," Prescott said. "We need to get ahold of our representatives, and we can get their email or their phone numbers off their websites. We need to start with Alicia Straub, Tori Arnberger (Blew), Troy Waymaster, and Brett Fairchild, and reach out to them, and say abolish Senate Bill 13. Sweet and simple."Jordan did offer a partial solution to frustrated taxpayers. Tax bills are posted on the county's website approximately three weeks ahead of when they arrive in the mail. Property owners can find their bills and pay them by <a href="https://ks761.cichosting.com/ttp/tax/search/search_tax.aspx">CLICKING HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Barton Co. heads, commission express frustration over tax statements

Several K-State Research and Extension publications on crop pests in Kansas have been updated and are available to order or download for free. A short introduction about each crop pest is listed below with a link to the corresponding publication. MF2999 – Alfalfa Weevils - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2999.pdf

The alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Gyllenhal), is the major perennial defoliator of early season alfalfa in Kansas. Alfalfa weevils originated in Asia but were probably introduced into the United States from southern Europe. First reported from Utah in 1904, they are now established in all contiguous states. There are thought to be two strains of the alfalfa weevil, an eastern strain that ranges as far west as Kansas, and a western strain that infests as far east as Nebraska and North and South Dakota. MF2823 – Bird Cherry-Oat Aphids - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2823.pdf

The bird cherry-oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi (L.), is a common inhabitant of Kansas wheat. It is more often associated with yield losses from barley yellow dwarf virus than any other aphid species. One of the largest aphids found on wheat, it is common in the fall and is the first aphid to be active in the spring. Aphids cause little direct feeding damage on wheat, but populations of 20 or more per tiller at the boot to heading stage may reduce yields. MF3047 – False Chinch Bugs - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3047.pdf

False chinch bugs, Nysius spp., occur in weedy pastures, fields, or other non-crop areas throughout Kansas. They typically feed on plants in the mustard family. When preferred foods dry up because they mature or are killed with herbicide, the insects migrate en- masse to succulent plants nearby. They usually attack soybeans and sorghum but also feed on cotton, canola, and corn. In canola fields, nymphs can be found under decomposing wheat stubble during the day. Large numbers of insects present in or adjacent to agricultural crops can be problematic. MF2954 – Black Cutworms - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2954.pdf

The black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), may infest field crops anywhere in Kansas. But economic infestations occur most commonly in eastern Kansas and especially in the southeastern fourth of the state — south of I-70 and east to Highway 177. Black cutworms have a wide host range but are of most agricultural concern to corn producers. They can also be problematic for vegetable growers and in turf grasses. MF2582 – Soybean Aphids - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2582.pdf

The soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura), native of China and Japan, was first identified in the United States during the summer and fall of 2000. By 2001, infestations were confirmed in several Midwestern states from Ohio to West Virginia, and west into Missouri and Iowa. In August and September of 2002, low numbers of aphids were confirmed in five eastern Kansas counties.

The soybean aphid has caused severe damage in some areas of the United States where it has become established. Its detection in Kansas means soybean producers in eastern and central Kansas need to learn how to identify this pest and monitor fields for its presence and signs of damage. MF2891 – Stink Bugs - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2891.pdf

Kansas crops can be infested by several stink bug species, but it is usually the green stink bug, Acrosternum hilare, and to a lesser extent, the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus, that cause problems. Both immature (nymphs) and adults are polyphagous, meaning they feed on many types of plants including crops.

Information provided by Jeff Whitworth, Extension Entomology Specialist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Several K-State Research and Extension publications on crop pests in Kansas have been updated and are available to order or download for free. A short introduction about each crop pest is listed below with a link to the corresponding publication. MF2999 – Alfalfa Weevils - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2999.pdfThe alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Gyllenhal), is the major perennial defoliator of early season alfalfa in Kansas. Alfalfa weevils originated in Asia but were probably introduced into the United States from southern Europe. First reported from Utah in 1904, they are now established in all contiguous states. There are thought to be two strains of the alfalfa weevil, an eastern strain that ranges as far west as Kansas, and a western strain that infests as far east as Nebraska and North and South Dakota. MF2823 – Bird Cherry-Oat Aphids - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2823.pdfThe bird cherry-oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi (L.), is a common inhabitant of Kansas wheat. It is more often associated with yield losses from barley yellow dwarf virus than any other aphid species. One of the largest aphids found on wheat, it is common in the fall and is the first aphid to be active in the spring. Aphids cause little direct feeding damage on wheat, but populations of 20 or more per tiller at the boot to heading stage may reduce yields. MF3047 – False Chinch Bugs - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3047.pdfFalse chinch bugs, Nysius spp., occur in weedy pastures, fields, or other non-crop areas throughout Kansas. They typically feed on plants in the mustard family. When preferred foods dry up because they mature or are killed with herbicide, the insects migrate en- masse to succulent plants nearby. They usually attack soybeans and sorghum but also feed on cotton, canola, and corn. In canola fields, nymphs can be found under decomposing wheat stubble during the day. Large numbers of insects present in or adjacent to agricultural crops can be problematic. MF2954 – Black Cutworms - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2954.pdfThe black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), may infest field crops anywhere in Kansas. But economic infestations occur most commonly in eastern Kansas and especially in the southeastern fourth of the state — south of I-70 and east to Highway 177. Black cutworms have a wide host range but are of most agricultural concern to corn producers. They can also be problematic for vegetable growers and in turf grasses. MF2582 – Soybean Aphids - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2582.pdfThe soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura), native of China and Japan, was first identified in the United States during the summer and fall of 2000. By 2001, infestations were confirmed in several Midwestern states from Ohio to West Virginia, and west into Missouri and Iowa. In August and September of 2002, low numbers of aphids were confirmed in five eastern Kansas counties.The soybean aphid has caused severe damage in some areas of the United States where it has become established. Its detection in Kansas means soybean producers in eastern and central Kansas need to learn how to identify this pest and monitor fields for its presence and signs of damage. MF2891 – Stink Bugs - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2891.pdfKansas crops can be infested by several stink bug species, but it is usually the green stink bug, Acrosternum hilare, and to a lesser extent, the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus, that cause problems. Both immature (nymphs) and adults are polyphagous, meaning they feed on many types of plants including crops.Information provided by Jeff Whitworth, Extension Entomology Specialist.

CAMPBELL: Updated publications on crop pests in Kansas now available

The extended nap time has arrived for the four grizzly bears at the Great
Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. In early November, the zoo’s grizzlies started staying inside
more. The bears don’t always go into a full hibernation, but use the torpor
tactic to survive the colder months, meaning they do wake up periodically
throughout the winter. 

Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said even when the bears do
go out in their yard, it is not for long. 
"It depends on the weather," said Burdick. "Even though we've had some warmer temperatures, the bears were still pretty lazy and didn't really want to go outside. I think a couple of them did go outside, but then quickly determined they'd rather be be inside." 
The bears are still given food and fresh water each day in case they show signs
of wanting to eat, but they typically bulk up before their seasonal rest. 
In their state of torpor, bears are able to reduce their metabolism, heart rate
and body temperature. 
Burdick said the best time to catch a glimpse at the other animals now is in
the afternoon when it warms up a little.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611689008493.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe extended nap time has arrived for the four grizzly bears at the Great
Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. In early November, the zoo’s grizzlies started staying inside
more. The bears don’t always go into a full hibernation, but use the torpor
tactic to survive the colder months, meaning they do wake up periodically
throughout the winter. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said even when the bears do
go out in their yard, it is not for long. 
"It depends on the weather," said Burdick. "Even though we've had some warmer temperatures, the bears were still pretty lazy and didn't really want to go outside. I think a couple of them did go outside, but then quickly determined they'd rather be be inside." 
The bears are still given food and fresh water each day in case they show signs
of wanting to eat, but they typically bulk up before their seasonal rest. 
In their state of torpor, bears are able to reduce their metabolism, heart rate
and body temperature. 
Burdick said the best time to catch a glimpse at the other animals now is in
the afternoon when it warms up a little.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Time to slow down for bears and the rest of the Great Bend zoo

On Monday, Dec. 5 at approximately 4:20 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a registration violation. 

The officer observed the tag displayed on the vehicle to return to a different vehicle. 

The officer made contact with the driver of the vehicle, who was recognized by the officer to be Dennis Streiner, age 45. 

The officer knew Streiner to be wanted on multiple warrants from multiple agencies. The officer ordered Streiner to exit the vehicle. Streiner refused, and fled northbound on 10 Avenue. A short pursuit was initiated, before Streiner fled from the vehicle in the area of Northwest 70 Avenue and Northwest 70 Road. 

Deputies from the Barton County Sheriff's Office responded as well, and a perimeter was set up. 

Streiner was located a short time later hiding in a field. Streiner was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of no bond on a felony probation violation warrant out of Rush County, five warrants for failure to appear through the City of Great Bend and additional charges of felony flee and elude and felony interference with law enforcement.

If anyone has any information regarding this crime or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670426812694.jpeg" alt="Dennis Streiner" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Streiner</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, Dec. 5 at approximately 4:20 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a registration violation. The officer observed the tag displayed on the vehicle to return to a different vehicle. The officer made contact with the driver of the vehicle, who was recognized by the officer to be Dennis Streiner, age 45. The officer knew Streiner to be wanted on multiple warrants from multiple agencies. The officer ordered Streiner to exit the vehicle. Streiner refused, and fled northbound on 10 Avenue. A short pursuit was initiated, before Streiner fled from the vehicle in the area of Northwest 70 Avenue and Northwest 70 Road. Deputies from the Barton County Sheriff's Office responded as well, and a perimeter was set up. Streiner was located a short time later hiding in a field. Streiner was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of no bond on a felony probation violation warrant out of Rush County, five warrants for failure to appear through the City of Great Bend and additional charges of felony flee and elude and felony interference with law enforcement.If anyone has any information regarding this crime or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300.

Man arrested after fleeing and hiding from Great Bend police

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (12/6) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 12:26 a.m. the K-9 was called out at 500 S. Main Street in Hoisington. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 2:28 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at 204 D. Street in
Claflin. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 6:37 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 222 Kiowa Road. 
 
At 7:09 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 700 block of W. K-4
Highway in Olmitz. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 7:33 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway at MM 118. 
 
At 11:50 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 700 block of NE 140 Road
in Claflin. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:20 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 197. 
 
At 3:26 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 90 Avenue &amp; NE 140
Road. 
 
Illegal Hunting 
 
At 6:13 p.m. illegal hunting was reported at NE 80 Avenue &amp; NE 130 Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 8:04 p.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of SE 60 Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (12/6)

At 2:02 a.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop at 3929 10th Street.

At 8:35 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 6th &amp; Washington.

At 9:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1501 Cherry Ln.

At 11:10 a.m. a possible battery was reported at 2027 Morton.

At 2:20 p.m. a vehicle passing unsafely in the county was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 197.

At 3:12 p.m. a vehicle speeding was reported at 2027 Morton.

At 3:48 p.m. a lock cut on the fence to the dike was reported at 100 Dike Road.

At 3:55 p.m. theft of medication from a vehicle was reported at 1623 Harrison.

At 4:57 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1216 Jefferson.

At 7:43 p.m. a dog abandoned in the dog park was reported at 4714 17th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (12/6) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 12:26 a.m. the K-9 was called out at 500 S. Main Street in Hoisington. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 2:28 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at 204 D. Street in
Claflin. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 6:37 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 222 Kiowa Road. 
 
At 7:09 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 700 block of W. K-4
Highway in Olmitz. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 7:33 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway at MM 118. 
 
At 11:50 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 700 block of NE 140 Road
in Claflin. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:20 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 197. 
 
At 3:26 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 90 Avenue &amp; NE 140
Road. 
 
Illegal Hunting 
 
At 6:13 p.m. illegal hunting was reported at NE 80 Avenue &amp; NE 130 Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 8:04 p.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of SE 60 Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (12/6)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 2:02 a.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop at 3929 10th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:35 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 6th &amp; Washington.Back PainAt 9:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1501 Cherry Ln.BatteryAt 11:10 a.m. a possible battery was reported at 2027 Morton.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 2:20 p.m. a vehicle passing unsafely in the county was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 197.At 3:12 p.m. a vehicle speeding was reported at 2027 Morton.Criminal DamageAt 3:48 p.m. a lock cut on the fence to the dike was reported at 100 Dike Road.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 3:55 p.m. theft of medication from a vehicle was reported at 1623 Harrison.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 4:57 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1216 Jefferson.Animal ComplaintAt 7:43 p.m. a dog abandoned in the dog park was reported at 4714 17th Street.

Cop Shop (12/6)

12/6 BOOKED: Fredrick Murphy on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Fredrick Murphy on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Brandon Watkins on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/6 BOOKED: Fredrick Murphy on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Fredrick Murphy on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Brandon Watkins on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (12/6)

Like so many things, Daryl Moore's career as an educator was almost an accident. Forty-six years later, he's officially ready to retire - for real this time - after serving out the final eight years of his career as assistant principal at Great Bend High School. Moore will call it quits at the close of the 2022-23 school year, and thanked USD 428 staff for the opportunity.

"I've really enjoyed my eight years here and want to thank the superintendents and the board for giving an old-timer a chance to still make a contribution," he said.

Moore graduated from Clifton High School, now Clifton-Clyde, some 20 minutes straight east of Concordia. Moore went to college so he could teach and coach, but the plan was to go back to the family farm after a few years.

"In the 80s, farming wasn't very good so I stayed in longer," he said. "And then I decided going back to the farm wasn't what I wanted to do, that I wanted to stay here in education."

Moore spent 24 years as a teacher, coach, and principal at Clifton-Clyde, then 11 years as principal at the now-defunct Belleville High School in Republic County. He reached 35 years of service with that job and retired, only to accept the principal job in Beloit.

"My wife needed six more years to retire, so I told them I'd be their high school principal for six years and not a day longer," he said. "I was there six years and not a day longer."

With kids living in Great Bend, the Moores moved to Great Bend just as GBHS was needing an assistant principal. Daryl's wife, Kathy, spent six years as the English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher before retiring last year. Daryl thought he would work a year or two before the stay turned into eight years.

Moore is proud of many things in his tenure at GBHS and beyond. Shortly after he arrived, the district issued Chromebooks to students. "It's a tremendous educational tool for them," he said. "It opens up the whole world and the Internet. It's been a great advantage for them. The kids have taken good advantage of it. By far, the vast majority, well over 90 percent of the kids, only use the Chromebooks for what they're supposed to."

In Moore's tenure, GBHS has also seen a big leap in graduation rates, from 80.6 percent in 2015 to 92.5 percent in 2021. He credits opportunities like computer-based learning and the Independent Learning Center for those improvements.

"Forty years ago, if we were talking about 75 percent we were feeling pretty good about it," he said. "That's been a real nice advantage that we have that we've provided for kids. We have a lot of kids that are able to graduate that way who, if it wasn't for that, wouldn't be able to."

Moore has also been pleased with career-based learning that begins in middle school and transitions into high school. "A lot of our kids, by the time they're sophomores, have a good idea of what they want to be when they get out of high school, and what they have to do to get there, whether that's two years of school, a technical school, or whatever they need to do," he said. "That's a real nice advantage to have that's come around in my last eight years."

Finally, Title IX was passed in 1972 to end discrimination regarding girls' participation in sports. Moore has been pleased to see those opportunities grow, including the addition of GBHS's successful Lady Panther wrestling team.

"They're getting the opportunity to compete and succeed in that area," he said. "I think that's really been something good to see since I started 46 years ago."

With nearly five decades in education, Moore was able to see much of the country with trips to Washington, D.C., Boston, Chicago, Nashville, San Antonio, New Orleans, San Diego, and Branson to name a few. He's attended the Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Holiday Bowl. 

But one of Moore's favorite memories involved the 'Miracle on Morton' at GBHS's own Memorial Stadium to open the 2019 football season. The Panthers defeated Andover 13-10 in come-from-behind fashion on that September night. 

Another favorite memory is simply seeing past students when they return home as they build their lives in college or elsewhere. "I think maybe the best memory I get is, a lot of times after graduation, the kids go off to college and they come back," said Moore. "It's always fun to see what those kids are doing and the success they've had, and how well they're doing, and get to feel like you've had a small part in that."

Moore said the thing he will miss most in retirement is being around dedicated students and staff. 

"Great Bend has a great staff, a lot of dedicated teachers," he said. "They work very hard for the students here. The teachers we have now are working a lot harder than the teachers were when I started in the 70s. Our teachers are available to the students almost 24/7 with their Chromebooks, they're answering emails and answering texts, and working with the kids when the kids are available."

The Moores plan to remain in Great Bend with son Preston Moore and daughter Ashley Vanada. With more free time, Daryl plans to do some volunteer work, build furniture, expand his hunting and trapping activities, and continue a new hobby of creating custom hunting knives.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670339230206.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School Assistant Principal Daryl Moore is set to retire after 46 years in education, including the past eight at GBHS." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School Assistant Principal Daryl Moore is set to retire after 46 years in education, including the past eight at GBHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLike so many things, Daryl Moore's career as an educator was almost an accident. Forty-six years later, he's officially ready to retire - for real this time - after serving out the final eight years of his career as assistant principal at Great Bend High School. Moore will call it quits at the close of the 2022-23 school year, and thanked USD 428 staff for the opportunity."I've really enjoyed my eight years here and want to thank the superintendents and the board for giving an old-timer a chance to still make a contribution," he said.Moore graduated from Clifton High School, now Clifton-Clyde, some 20 minutes straight east of Concordia. Moore went to college so he could teach and coach, but the plan was to go back to the family farm after a few years."In the 80s, farming wasn't very good so I stayed in longer," he said. "And then I decided going back to the farm wasn't what I wanted to do, that I wanted to stay here in education."Moore spent 24 years as a teacher, coach, and principal at Clifton-Clyde, then 11 years as principal at the now-defunct Belleville High School in Republic County. He reached 35 years of service with that job and retired, only to accept the principal job in Beloit."My wife needed six more years to retire, so I told them I'd be their high school principal for six years and not a day longer," he said. "I was there six years and not a day longer."With kids living in Great Bend, the Moores moved to Great Bend just as GBHS was needing an assistant principal. Daryl's wife, Kathy, spent six years as the English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher before retiring last year. Daryl thought he would work a year or two before the stay turned into eight years.Moore is proud of many things in his tenure at GBHS and beyond. Shortly after he arrived, the district issued Chromebooks to students. "It's a tremendous educational tool for them," he said. "It opens up the whole world and the Internet. It's been a great advantage for them. The kids have taken good advantage of it. By far, the vast majority, well over 90 percent of the kids, only use the Chromebooks for what they're supposed to."In Moore's tenure, GBHS has also seen a big leap in graduation rates, from 80.6 percent in 2015 to 92.5 percent in 2021. He credits opportunities like computer-based learning and the Independent Learning Center for those improvements."Forty years ago, if we were talking about 75 percent we were feeling pretty good about it," he said. "That's been a real nice advantage that we have that we've provided for kids. We have a lot of kids that are able to graduate that way who, if it wasn't for that, wouldn't be able to."Moore has also been pleased with career-based learning that begins in middle school and transitions into high school. "A lot of our kids, by the time they're sophomores, have a good idea of what they want to be when they get out of high school, and what they have to do to get there, whether that's two years of school, a technical school, or whatever they need to do," he said. "That's a real nice advantage to have that's come around in my last eight years."Finally, Title IX was passed in 1972 to end discrimination regarding girls' participation in sports. Moore has been pleased to see those opportunities grow, including the addition of GBHS's successful Lady Panther wrestling team."They're getting the opportunity to compete and succeed in that area," he said. "I think that's really been something good to see since I started 46 years ago."With nearly five decades in education, Moore was able to see much of the country with trips to Washington, D.C., Boston, Chicago, Nashville, San Antonio, New Orleans, San Diego, and Branson to name a few. He's attended the Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Holiday Bowl. But one of Moore's favorite memories involved the 'Miracle on Morton' at GBHS's own Memorial Stadium to open the 2019 football season. The Panthers defeated Andover 13-10 in come-from-behind fashion on that September night. Another favorite memory is simply seeing past students when they return home as they build their lives in college or elsewhere. "I think maybe the best memory I get is, a lot of times after graduation, the kids go off to college and they come back," said Moore. "It's always fun to see what those kids are doing and the success they've had, and how well they're doing, and get to feel like you've had a small part in that."Moore said the thing he will miss most in retirement is being around dedicated students and staff. "Great Bend has a great staff, a lot of dedicated teachers," he said. "They work very hard for the students here. The teachers we have now are working a lot harder than the teachers were when I started in the 70s. Our teachers are available to the students almost 24/7 with their Chromebooks, they're answering emails and answering texts, and working with the kids when the kids are available."The Moores plan to remain in Great Bend with son Preston Moore and daughter Ashley Vanada. With more free time, Daryl plans to do some volunteer work, build furniture, expand his hunting and trapping activities, and continue a new hobby of creating custom hunting knives.

GBHS's Moore retiring for good this time after 46 years in education

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm wind becoming east 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm wind becoming east 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.Tonight A slight chance of drizzle before midnight, then a chance of rain between midnight and 3 a.m., then a chance of rain and thunderstorms after 3 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33. East wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50 percent.Thursday A chance of drizzle and thunderstorms before 9 a.m., then a chance of drizzle between 9 a.m. and noon. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 52. East wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24. West northwest wind 7 to 9 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Light and variable wind becoming southeast 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 51.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34.Tuesday A 20-percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 47. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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