11/16 BOOKED: Alexander Anderson on two McPherson County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Dylan Rodgers-Gowdy on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,082.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Laveina White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $980 cash only.

RELEASED: Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, per the county attorney.

RELEASED: Jordi Armendariz on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, per the county attorney.

RELEASED: James Hazlett on hold for court, back to KDOC.

RELEASED: Eduardo Torres on Barton County District Court case, on a $100,000 OR bond per Judge Hipp.

RELEASED: David Hester on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Leonard Boese on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Opium, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Improper Turn, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Zachary Horyna on two Barton County District Court warrants, on a $20,000 OR bond per Judge Burgess.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/16 BOOKED: Alexander Anderson on two McPherson County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Dylan Rodgers-Gowdy on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,082.50 cash only.BOOKED: Laveina White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $980 cash only.RELEASED: Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, per the county attorney.RELEASED: Jordi Armendariz on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, per the county attorney.RELEASED: James Hazlett on hold for court, back to KDOC.RELEASED: Eduardo Torres on Barton County District Court case, on a $100,000 OR bond per Judge Hipp.RELEASED: David Hester on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Leonard Boese on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Opium, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Improper Turn, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Zachary Horyna on two Barton County District Court warrants, on a $20,000 OR bond per Judge Burgess.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (11/16)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A goal to make improvements to Great Bend’s Heizer Park was publicly
announced in 2020 by city officials. To get things moving, the Great Bend
Recreation Commission Board Monday approved a cost sharing agreement with the
city to have a master plan designed. 
A survey from two years ago, showed community members mostly wanted restrooms
installed, lighting, playground features and soccer field improvements at
Heizer. 
Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris Umphres said the master plan will get
the design phase started. &nbsp;"Really, we haven't put any funds to this, and I don't know if we really intend to," said Umphres. "We want to be the visionary and help get it going. That's what our share of this is for." 
The Master Planning Services Agreement is through Athco, LLC for a fee of
$9,500. The City of Great Bend and Recreation Commission will split the cost. 
The city was approved for a $161,000 grant through the Kansas Department of
Wildlife and Parks to make improvements to Heizer.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596226376812.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA goal to make improvements to Great Bend’s Heizer Park was publicly
announced in 2020 by city officials. To get things moving, the Great Bend
Recreation Commission Board Monday approved a cost sharing agreement with the
city to have a master plan designed. 
A survey from two years ago, showed community members mostly wanted restrooms
installed, lighting, playground features and soccer field improvements at
Heizer. 
Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris Umphres said the master plan will get
the design phase started. &nbsp;"Really, we haven't put any funds to this, and I don't know if we really intend to," said Umphres. "We want to be the visionary and help get it going. That's what our share of this is for." 
The Master Planning Services Agreement is through Athco, LLC for a fee of
$9,500. The City of Great Bend and Recreation Commission will split the cost. 
The city was approved for a $161,000 grant through the Kansas Department of
Wildlife and Parks to make improvements to Heizer.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Entering design phase for Great Bend’s Heizer Park improvements

Today Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36. West wind 6 to 15 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 14. North wind 9 to 11 mph.

Friday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 28. North northwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 15. West southwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 38. Northwest wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 19.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 52.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 24.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 55.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 55.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 31.

Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36. West wind 6 to 15 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 14. North wind 9 to 11 mph.Friday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 28. North northwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 15. West southwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 38. Northwest wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 19.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 52.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 24.Monday Sunny, with a high near 55.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 55.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 31.Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

The Central Kansas Community Choir (CKCC) will perform its “Holiday Harmony” concert featuring uplifting vocal selections at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the First Methodist Church 2123 Forest Ave. in Great Bend.

The CKCC is&nbsp;a non-denominational mixed chorus&nbsp;sponsored by Barton Community College and strives to provide challenging performances of quality literature for the enjoyment of the residents of the Central Kansas area. Choir membership is open to high school-age singers and above.&nbsp;It was founded in the spring of 2003 by former director Vern Fryberger.

For more information, contact Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9395.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668524936978.jpeg" alt="The Central Kansas Community Choir performs at a previous concert." />
 <figcaption>The Central Kansas Community Choir performs at a previous concert.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Central Kansas Community Choir (CKCC) will perform its “Holiday Harmony” concert featuring uplifting vocal selections at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the First Methodist Church 2123 Forest Ave. in Great Bend.The CKCC is&nbsp;a non-denominational mixed chorus&nbsp;sponsored by Barton Community College and strives to provide challenging performances of quality literature for the enjoyment of the residents of the Central Kansas area. Choir membership is open to high school-age singers and above.&nbsp;It was founded in the spring of 2003 by former director Vern Fryberger.For more information, contact Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9395.

Central Kansas Community Choir to perform in Great Bend

News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 15 John P. Tretbar

Crude prices are holding steady, despite some ups and downs within a ten dollar trading range. Futures prices jumped two and a half dollars on Friday to settle at $88.96 per barrel in New York. By lunchtime Monday those prices were down two and a half dollars. WTI in New York was trading over $86. London Brent was over $94 per barrel. Kansas prices are down from a week ago, but up from the first of the month. Kansas Common crude started the week at $79.25 per barrel after gaining $2.50 on Friday. But on Monday, CHS in McPherson dropped its price to $76 per barrel. Oilfield activity in Kansas remains about 50% ahead of last year. So far this year, 247 operators have spudded 1,372 wells. Total footage drilled is estimated at 3.8 million feet compared to 2.8 million feet a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 522 wells current in various stages of drilling and completion. The Kansas Rig Count east of Wichita was up two at 19 active rigs. Western Kansas dropped by three to 30 rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. Operators were drilling one well and about to spud another in Ellis County on Friday. Kansas regulators gave the green light to 36 new drilling locations across the state, with 12 in eastern Kansas and 24 west of Wichita, including two in Barton county and one in Ellis County. That's 1,436 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 991 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 40 new well-completions in the week through November 10th. That's 1,398 completed wells so far this year, compared to 778 by this time last year. There are two wells in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and two in Russell County among the 28 wells completed in Western Kansas last week. Baker Hughes reported 779 active rotary drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, an increase of nine oil rigs. The count in Louisiana was up six rigs; Texas gained four. The Energy Information Administration reports a big increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories for the week through November 4th. Stockpiles increased nearly four million barrels, after dropping by three million barrels the week before. EIA says domestic inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline inventories dropped by nearly a million barrels, and are about six percent below the five year average. Diesel Stockpiles dropped by half a million barrels last week and remain about 17% below the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude-oil production increased by 200-thousand barrels per day last week, once again rising above 12 million barrels per day. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic is up three percent over last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,323 carloads, up 201 tankers from a week ago and a 3.3% increase over the same week last year. Canadian traffic is down 500 carloads for the week and 8.6% lower than last year. Diesel prices remain at near-record highs while inventories hold steady at historic lows. A report from the Energy Information Administration cites the benchmark New York Harbor spot prices for ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. In October, that price averaged $4.36 per gallon, the highest monthly average prices since May of 2022 and the second-highest monthly average on record. Increasing demand and reduced production of diesel fuel contribute to this, but the report primarily blames low inventories both in the U.S. and around the world. U.S. inventories of distillate fuel oil have been below the five-year low since January. Total U.S. diesel inventories have been below the five-year low and more than 20% below the five-year average since April.&nbsp; Another barometer used by analysts is the so-called "crack spread," the difference between the price of crude and the equivalent amount of diesel fuel. October's crack spread marked an all-time high at $2.14 per gallon in October, compared to $1.61/gallon in October last year. Russia has started swapping oil products with Iran, the latest sign of deepening ties between the two sanctioned countries pushed closer by Russia’s war in Ukraine. Bloomberg cites an Interfax report attributed to the Russian Deputy Prime Minister, who said the range of swapped products will be expanded. The news came after a meeting with Iran's Oil Minister. The talks also covered potential Russian participation to increase Iran's oil production, the development of ports, and an international north-south freight corridor connecting Russia to India via Iran. Saudi Arabia has established a carbon-capture sequestration center, as the state oil giant seeks to reach its goal of net-zero emissions by the year 2060.&nbsp; The center will be located on the east coast of Saudi Arabia. Bloomberg reports the hub could store up to 9 million metric tons of CO2 every year within the next five years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 15 John P. TretbarCrude prices are holding steady, despite some ups and downs within a ten dollar trading range. Futures prices jumped two and a half dollars on Friday to settle at $88.96 per barrel in New York. By lunchtime Monday those prices were down two and a half dollars. WTI in New York was trading over $86. London Brent was over $94 per barrel. Kansas prices are down from a week ago, but up from the first of the month. Kansas Common crude started the week at $79.25 per barrel after gaining $2.50 on Friday. But on Monday, CHS in McPherson dropped its price to $76 per barrel. Oilfield activity in Kansas remains about 50% ahead of last year. So far this year, 247 operators have spudded 1,372 wells. Total footage drilled is estimated at 3.8 million feet compared to 2.8 million feet a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 522 wells current in various stages of drilling and completion. The Kansas Rig Count east of Wichita was up two at 19 active rigs. Western Kansas dropped by three to 30 rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. Operators were drilling one well and about to spud another in Ellis County on Friday. Kansas regulators gave the green light to 36 new drilling locations across the state, with 12 in eastern Kansas and 24 west of Wichita, including two in Barton county and one in Ellis County. That's 1,436 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 991 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 40 new well-completions in the week through November 10th. That's 1,398 completed wells so far this year, compared to 778 by this time last year. There are two wells in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and two in Russell County among the 28 wells completed in Western Kansas last week. Baker Hughes reported 779 active rotary drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, an increase of nine oil rigs. The count in Louisiana was up six rigs; Texas gained four. The Energy Information Administration reports a big increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories for the week through November 4th. Stockpiles increased nearly four million barrels, after dropping by three million barrels the week before. EIA says domestic inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline inventories dropped by nearly a million barrels, and are about six percent below the five year average. Diesel Stockpiles dropped by half a million barrels last week and remain about 17% below the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude-oil production increased by 200-thousand barrels per day last week, once again rising above 12 million barrels per day. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic is up three percent over last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,323 carloads, up 201 tankers from a week ago and a 3.3% increase over the same week last year. Canadian traffic is down 500 carloads for the week and 8.6% lower than last year. Diesel prices remain at near-record highs while inventories hold steady at historic lows. A report from the Energy Information Administration cites the benchmark New York Harbor spot prices for ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. In October, that price averaged $4.36 per gallon, the highest monthly average prices since May of 2022 and the second-highest monthly average on record. Increasing demand and reduced production of diesel fuel contribute to this, but the report primarily blames low inventories both in the U.S. and around the world. U.S. inventories of distillate fuel oil have been below the five-year low since January. Total U.S. diesel inventories have been below the five-year low and more than 20% below the five-year average since April.&nbsp; Another barometer used by analysts is the so-called "crack spread," the difference between the price of crude and the equivalent amount of diesel fuel. October's crack spread marked an all-time high at $2.14 per gallon in October, compared to $1.61/gallon in October last year. Russia has started swapping oil products with Iran, the latest sign of deepening ties between the two sanctioned countries pushed closer by Russia’s war in Ukraine. Bloomberg cites an Interfax report attributed to the Russian Deputy Prime Minister, who said the range of swapped products will be expanded. The news came after a meeting with Iran's Oil Minister. The talks also covered potential Russian participation to increase Iran's oil production, the development of ports, and an international north-south freight corridor connecting Russia to India via Iran. Saudi Arabia has established a carbon-capture sequestration center, as the state oil giant seeks to reach its goal of net-zero emissions by the year 2060.&nbsp; The center will be located on the east coast of Saudi Arabia. Bloomberg reports the hub could store up to 9 million metric tons of CO2 every year within the next five years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Diesel prices near all-time highs

Looking at turkeys for your holiday meals? Here are some tips to help make your holiday turkey safe and healthy. Turkey is a healthy choice since it is considered a white meat and full of protein! Some tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it or use herbs and lemon to season rather than butter and salt. Allow one pound (1 lb) of turkey per person you are serving. Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them in one of three ways: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or the microwave. Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird. To roast the turkey, start with an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees when it is thoroughly cooked. Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.

Then there are the leftovers. Turkey can be eaten hot or cold once it is cooked. However, a good rule is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and don’t allow leftovers out for too long. Resist the temptation to leave lunch out for supper. Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours. Dividing leftovers into smaller portions and in shallow containers allows leftovers to cool quickly. Leftovers should be used within three to four days.

The USDA has a meat and poultry hotline and website if you find you have questions during the holidays. Th phone number is 1-888-674-6854 (1-888-MPHotline) Monday-Friday 10am-4pm or online at www.fsis.usda.gov. You can always call the office to talk to an extension agent to have your questions answered as well. Cottonwood Extension District has lots of tips on our website as well. https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/

I hope you enjoy eating lots of turkey 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/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" 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>Looking at turkeys for your holiday meals? Here are some tips to help make your holiday turkey safe and healthy. Turkey is a healthy choice since it is considered a white meat and full of protein! Some tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it or use herbs and lemon to season rather than butter and salt. Allow one pound (1 lb) of turkey per person you are serving. Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them in one of three ways: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or the microwave. Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird. To roast the turkey, start with an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees when it is thoroughly cooked. Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.Then there are the leftovers. Turkey can be eaten hot or cold once it is cooked. However, a good rule is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and don’t allow leftovers out for too long. Resist the temptation to leave lunch out for supper. Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours. Dividing leftovers into smaller portions and in shallow containers allows leftovers to cool quickly. Leftovers should be used within three to four days.The USDA has a meat and poultry hotline and website if you find you have questions during the holidays. Th phone number is 1-888-674-6854 (1-888-MPHotline) Monday-Friday 10am-4pm or online at www.fsis.usda.gov. You can always call the office to talk to an extension agent to have your questions answered as well. Cottonwood Extension District has lots of tips on our website as well. https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/I hope you enjoy eating lots of turkey 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: Turkey preparation reminders

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Clerk Shawna Shafer and City Attorney Allen Glendenning that aired Nov. 16, 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 Clerk Shawna Shafer and City Attorney Allen Glendenning that aired Nov. 16, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/4giozg4h/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 Clerk Shafer & Attorney Glendenning

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Improvements are coming to the Barton County Health Department. Director Karen Winkleman submitted a letter to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment back in July requesting the use of $50,000 of an Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) grant towards a remodel. With the help of $10,000 in additional funds from KDHE, the Barton County Commission agreed Wednesday morning to pay the remaining $11,000 for the renovation. 

"The remodel we're looking at is to combine two of our restrooms into one, and make it a (decontamination) area where we have a shower, a washer, and a dryer," Winkleman told commissioners. "We would use it when we go out on environmental visits, or like with COVID, we would have had a place to come back and change before we went home."

Another piece of the renovation will convert the library area to a more private meeting room for HIPPA-related meetings. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the county would be getting $71,000 worth of work completed for the local cost of $11,000. Winkelman said it could have been a matter of good timing.

"The grant was actually to be used by the end of November," she said. "A lot of health departments were having trouble trying to get projects started or done by that time, so that extended the grant to June 30, 2023, which has been very helpful."

Brentwood Builders was the lone contractor to enter a bid on the project, which will likely begin before the end of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642101488564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostImprovements are coming to the Barton County Health Department. Director Karen Winkleman submitted a letter to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment back in July requesting the use of $50,000 of an Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) grant towards a remodel. With the help of $10,000 in additional funds from KDHE, the Barton County Commission agreed Wednesday morning to pay the remaining $11,000 for the renovation. "The remodel we're looking at is to combine two of our restrooms into one, and make it a (decontamination) area where we have a shower, a washer, and a dryer," Winkleman told commissioners. "We would use it when we go out on environmental visits, or like with COVID, we would have had a place to come back and change before we went home."Another piece of the renovation will convert the library area to a more private meeting room for HIPPA-related meetings. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the county would be getting $71,000 worth of work completed for the local cost of $11,000. Winkelman said it could have been a matter of good timing."The grant was actually to be used by the end of November," she said. "A lot of health departments were having trouble trying to get projects started or done by that time, so that extended the grant to June 30, 2023, which has been very helpful."Brentwood Builders was the lone contractor to enter a bid on the project, which will likely begin before the end of the year.

KDHE grants to pay for most of Barton Co. Health Department remodel

Another successful election is in the books for the Barton County Clerk's office. Results from last Tuesday's general election remain unofficial until the Barton County Commission canvasses the votes Wednesday morning. Clerk Bev Schmeidler said voting was slightly higher than in the August primary.

"We really kind of expected it to be higher because the primary was higher turnout, so it was about what we expected it to be," she said. "Everything went really smoothly. The board workers did a great job and we really appreciate everything they do."

Just over 7,400 Barton County residents voted in the Aug. 2 primary, compared to 8,075 votes cast in the Nov. 8 general election. Voter participation increased from 45.9 percent in August to 49.6 percent in November.

Barton County results did not necessarily mirror those at the statewide level. Sixty-two percent of local voters picked Republican Governor Candidate Derek Schmidt to unseat incumbent Laura Kelly, who collected 49 percent of the vote across Kansas. In the other major state race, Republican Kris Kobach defeated Democrat Chris Mann by just two percentage points in the Attorney General race. Kobach collected 70 percent of the votes in Barton County.&nbsp;

Sixty percent of Barton County voters checked "yes" on the constitutional amendment regarding legislative oversight, compared to 50 percent statewide. That amendment failed, losing to the "no" vote by just 9,095 votes, unofficially.&nbsp;

This year's election numbers were almost identical to Barton County figures from the last gubernatorial cycle. In 2018, just over 8,600 voters, or 49.2 percent of eligible voters, voted in Barton County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660170013868.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAnother successful election is in the books for the Barton County Clerk's office. Results from last Tuesday's general election remain unofficial until the Barton County Commission canvasses the votes Wednesday morning. Clerk Bev Schmeidler said voting was slightly higher than in the August primary."We really kind of expected it to be higher because the primary was higher turnout, so it was about what we expected it to be," she said. "Everything went really smoothly. The board workers did a great job and we really appreciate everything they do."Just over 7,400 Barton County residents voted in the Aug. 2 primary, compared to 8,075 votes cast in the Nov. 8 general election. Voter participation increased from 45.9 percent in August to 49.6 percent in November.Barton County results did not necessarily mirror those at the statewide level. Sixty-two percent of local voters picked Republican Governor Candidate Derek Schmidt to unseat incumbent Laura Kelly, who collected 49 percent of the vote across Kansas. In the other major state race, Republican Kris Kobach defeated Democrat Chris Mann by just two percentage points in the Attorney General race. Kobach collected 70 percent of the votes in Barton County.&nbsp;Sixty percent of Barton County voters checked "yes" on the constitutional amendment regarding legislative oversight, compared to 50 percent statewide. That amendment failed, losing to the "no" vote by just 9,095 votes, unofficially.&nbsp;This year's election numbers were almost identical to Barton County figures from the last gubernatorial cycle. In 2018, just over 8,600 voters, or 49.2 percent of eligible voters, voted in Barton County.

Barton County voter turnout remained high in general election

More than 760,000 Americans have died of opioid overdoses since 1999, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That makes the issue not an elephant in the room but something that requires action. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education approved carrying the drug Narcan at Great Bend High School and Great Bend Middle School as an emergency option in the event of an opioid overdose.

"We just want to have this option as just a precaution in our secondary buildings, just in case," said Superintendent Khris Thexton. "It's one of those that, I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it."

The policy presented at Monday's meeting mirrors that of many school districts around the state. GBHS Nurse Emily Young did much of the research to bring the drug to the district, and Dr. Jonathan Pike provided the order to make it possible.

"In Kansas, the state nursing board said they would not recommend their nurses give this medication unless there was a doctor's order, and Dr. Pike has issued such an order for our district," Thexton said. "He was happy to do so and thought it was a great idea."

Board member Chad Burroughs works for the Great Bend Fire Department and said staff there will help train the district on Narcan use, including what happens once the drug is administered.

"When they do come out of an opioid overdose, it's like waking up the Incredible Hulk," he said. "There will be some restraining, more than likely, just to protect the student from hurting himself as well as hurting anybody else. We just want to train, hand-in-hand, with this administration and the school nurses to make sure they know what we're going to do and we know what they're going to do before we get there."

Thexton stressed that all medical emergencies will first be reported to 9-1-1, and that using Narcan is only a last resort. Board President Jacquie likened using the drug to using an EpiPen on a patient suffering from anaphylaxis. There would be no side effects if Narcan was administered to a patient suffering from non-opiod-related respiratory distress.

Narcan quickly reverses an overdose by blocking the effects of opioids. The Centers for Disease Control reports that nearly 50,000 people died from opioid overdose in 2019, and in 40 percent of those cases, someone else was present. One study indicates opioid-related deaths dropped by as many as 14 percent in states that have enacted Narcan access laws.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668606475374.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School Nurse Emily Young" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School Nurse Emily Young</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMore than 760,000 Americans have died of opioid overdoses since 1999, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That makes the issue not an elephant in the room but something that requires action. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education approved carrying the drug Narcan at Great Bend High School and Great Bend Middle School as an emergency option in the event of an opioid overdose."We just want to have this option as just a precaution in our secondary buildings, just in case," said Superintendent Khris Thexton. "It's one of those that, I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it."The policy presented at Monday's meeting mirrors that of many school districts around the state. GBHS Nurse Emily Young did much of the research to bring the drug to the district, and Dr. Jonathan Pike provided the order to make it possible."In Kansas, the state nursing board said they would not recommend their nurses give this medication unless there was a doctor's order, and Dr. Pike has issued such an order for our district," Thexton said. "He was happy to do so and thought it was a great idea."Board member Chad Burroughs works for the Great Bend Fire Department and said staff there will help train the district on Narcan use, including what happens once the drug is administered."When they do come out of an opioid overdose, it's like waking up the Incredible Hulk," he said. "There will be some restraining, more than likely, just to protect the student from hurting himself as well as hurting anybody else. We just want to train, hand-in-hand, with this administration and the school nurses to make sure they know what we're going to do and we know what they're going to do before we get there."Thexton stressed that all medical emergencies will first be reported to 9-1-1, and that using Narcan is only a last resort. Board President Jacquie likened using the drug to using an EpiPen on a patient suffering from anaphylaxis. There would be no side effects if Narcan was administered to a patient suffering from non-opiod-related respiratory distress.Narcan quickly reverses an overdose by blocking the effects of opioids. The Centers for Disease Control reports that nearly 50,000 people died from opioid overdose in 2019, and in 40 percent of those cases, someone else was present. One study indicates opioid-related deaths dropped by as many as 14 percent in states that have enacted Narcan access laws.

Great Bend High School, Middle School to begin carrying Narcan

The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees has voted to retire $2.25 million in capital credits to eligible members (electric account holders), the largest payout in the cooperative’s nearly 75-year history.

This December, eligible members (Wheatland account holders, both past and present) who have accumulated at least $25 in credits will receive their payout in the form of a check during our Capital Credits Harvest Day on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022.

One of Wheatland Electric’s seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, which means members contribute equitably to and democratically control the capital of their cooperative.

Capital credits is just one way we honor this cooperative spirit, and why we’re inviting members to come “enjoy their slice of the pie” during our Dec. 6 event.

Members are invited to come pick up their capital credits check between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and can enjoy complimentary pie and other refreshments, first-come, first-served.

Because electric cooperatives like ours operate at a cost, any excess revenues (called margins) can be allocated to members in later years through capital credits. Trustees determine how and when to retire (pay out) capital credits when economically feasible.

Wheatland Electric has retired at least $1 million in capital credits every year for the last five years.

This year, co-op members from 1989, 1990, and 2021 are eligible for our record-setting payout, which trustees voted on in September.

The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and his or her duration of membership.

Of this year’s $2.25 million payout, $250,000 comes from Sunflower Electric Power Corp., our power supplier. Wheatland Electric is a distribution cooperative and a member of Sunflower, a generation and transmission cooperative.

Members, active or inactive, who do not pick up their capital credits checks on Capital Credits Harvest Day (Dec. 6) will have them mailed to their address of record.

In addition, eligible members who have not accumulated at least $25 in capital credits this year will not receive a check. However, they will not lose their payout amount. Instead, their retirement amount will be rolled over into a future year’s payout.

It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members (individuals not currently receiving service but who have received service in the past) to ensure the timely delivery of capital credits checks each year.

To confirm or update your mailing address, please call us at 1-800-762-0436.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668532033817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees has voted to retire $2.25 million in capital credits to eligible members (electric account holders), the largest payout in the cooperative’s nearly 75-year history.This December, eligible members (Wheatland account holders, both past and present) who have accumulated at least $25 in credits will receive their payout in the form of a check during our Capital Credits Harvest Day on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022.One of Wheatland Electric’s seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, which means members contribute equitably to and democratically control the capital of their cooperative.Capital credits is just one way we honor this cooperative spirit, and why we’re inviting members to come “enjoy their slice of the pie” during our Dec. 6 event.Members are invited to come pick up their capital credits check between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and can enjoy complimentary pie and other refreshments, first-come, first-served.Because electric cooperatives like ours operate at a cost, any excess revenues (called margins) can be allocated to members in later years through capital credits. Trustees determine how and when to retire (pay out) capital credits when economically feasible.Wheatland Electric has retired at least $1 million in capital credits every year for the last five years.This year, co-op members from 1989, 1990, and 2021 are eligible for our record-setting payout, which trustees voted on in September.The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and his or her duration of membership.Of this year’s $2.25 million payout, $250,000 comes from Sunflower Electric Power Corp., our power supplier. Wheatland Electric is a distribution cooperative and a member of Sunflower, a generation and transmission cooperative.Members, active or inactive, who do not pick up their capital credits checks on Capital Credits Harvest Day (Dec. 6) will have them mailed to their address of record.In addition, eligible members who have not accumulated at least $25 in capital credits this year will not receive a check. However, they will not lose their payout amount. Instead, their retirement amount will be rolled over into a future year’s payout.It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members (individuals not currently receiving service but who have received service in the past) to ensure the timely delivery of capital credits checks each year.To confirm or update your mailing address, please call us at 1-800-762-0436.

Wheatland Electric retiring $2.25M in capital credits, its largest payout 

To help create a heathier, stronger community, The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus is partnering with area nonprofits, health departments, schools and insurance providers to determine current health needs. The Great Bend community is encouraged to participate in open meetings to help develop an improvement plan.

“This groundbreaking public/private partnership reflects our commitment to improving the health and wellness of our community,” said John Worden, Great Bend Campus administrator. “This scope of work stays true to our mission of providing exceptional healthcare to all Kansans.

“Through collaborative community involvement and listening, we will identify priority issues and work to bridge existing gaps in healthcare delivery and resources,” Worden said.

The Barton County Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan is being developed by the United Way of Central Kansas, Barton County Health Department, Aetna Better Health of Kansas, the University of Kansas School of Medicine and The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus, with support from the Kansas Center for Rural Health.

“The Kansas Center for Rural Health is pleased to be part of the Barton County community health assessment and improvement process,” said Dr. Robert Moser, dean of the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Salina. “Rural communities face challenges at many levels when addressing community health needs and identifying how to prioritize addressing those needs.

“Improving community health will take a multisector and multidisciplinary approach to make progress,” Moser added. “It’s important to not only prioritize interventions but to collaborate with local partners and have an ongoing evaluation process in place to monitor the impact of new programs or activities so adjustments can be made, and progress tracked.”

“We recognize that strong health outcomes come from strong communities and engaged community partners. We are pleased to partner with the Barton County community and so

many incredible and engaged stakeholders to build a lasting and impactful improvement plan,” said Jane Brown, president and CEO of Aetna Better Health of Kansas. “We know working together, especially in our rural areas, is the best way to advance healthier, more resilient communities.”

Numerous local social service and medical leaders have been interviewed for their input and perspectives. In addition, the United Way of Central Kansas provided data that informed a community needs assessment completed by the Docking Institute at Fort Hays State University.

Focus groups and town halls are scheduled for the community to provide input. The public is invited to a town hall 6-7:30 p.m. November 28, 2022, in the Kansas Room (north entrance) at Perkins Restaurant &amp; Bakery, 2920 10th St., Great Bend, Kansas. Light refreshments and appetizers will be served.

Once all the information and input have been gathered, the group will work together to develop an improvement plan and share with the community, along with action steps to address issues identified and share progress toward those goals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668525069257.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSTo help create a heathier, stronger community, The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus is partnering with area nonprofits, health departments, schools and insurance providers to determine current health needs. The Great Bend community is encouraged to participate in open meetings to help develop an improvement plan.“This groundbreaking public/private partnership reflects our commitment to improving the health and wellness of our community,” said John Worden, Great Bend Campus administrator. “This scope of work stays true to our mission of providing exceptional healthcare to all Kansans.“Through collaborative community involvement and listening, we will identify priority issues and work to bridge existing gaps in healthcare delivery and resources,” Worden said.The Barton County Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan is being developed by the United Way of Central Kansas, Barton County Health Department, Aetna Better Health of Kansas, the University of Kansas School of Medicine and The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus, with support from the Kansas Center for Rural Health.“The Kansas Center for Rural Health is pleased to be part of the Barton County community health assessment and improvement process,” said Dr. Robert Moser, dean of the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Salina. “Rural communities face challenges at many levels when addressing community health needs and identifying how to prioritize addressing those needs.“Improving community health will take a multisector and multidisciplinary approach to make progress,” Moser added. “It’s important to not only prioritize interventions but to collaborate with local partners and have an ongoing evaluation process in place to monitor the impact of new programs or activities so adjustments can be made, and progress tracked.”“We recognize that strong health outcomes come from strong communities and engaged community partners. We are pleased to partner with the Barton County community and somany incredible and engaged stakeholders to build a lasting and impactful improvement plan,” said Jane Brown, president and CEO of Aetna Better Health of Kansas. “We know working together, especially in our rural areas, is the best way to advance healthier, more resilient communities.”Numerous local social service and medical leaders have been interviewed for their input and perspectives. In addition, the United Way of Central Kansas provided data that informed a community needs assessment completed by the Docking Institute at Fort Hays State University.Focus groups and town halls are scheduled for the community to provide input. The public is invited to a town hall 6-7:30 p.m. November 28, 2022, in the Kansas Room (north entrance) at Perkins Restaurant &amp; Bakery, 2920 10th St., Great Bend, Kansas. Light refreshments and appetizers will be served.Once all the information and input have been gathered, the group will work together to develop an improvement plan and share with the community, along with action steps to address issues identified and share progress toward those goals.

Great Bend hospital partnering with community to determine health needs

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (11/15) 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 7:37 a.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 30 Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 8:58 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 412 NW 150 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:27 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 608 Windmill Ln. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:31 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 122 NW 130 Road in Hoisington. 
 
At 9:47 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1129 NW 220 Road. 
 
At 11:25 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 130
Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:24 p.m. an accident was reported at 1113 NE 50 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 4:35 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1400 block of NW K-96
Highway in Albert. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:22 p.m. an accident was reported in the 400 block of W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (11/15)

At 8:16 a.m. an accident was reported at 200 10th Street.

At 9:06 a.m. an accident was reported at 200 10th Street.

At 9:07 a.m. an accident was reported at 19th &amp; McKinley.

At 9:14 a.m. a vehicle slid on the ice and struck another vehicle at 1514 K-96 Highway.

At 9:33 a.m. a vehicle slid on the ice and struck another vehicle at 701 10th Street.

At 5:15 p.m. a report of checking a Rosewood client was made at 1302 Jefferson.

At 9:21 p.m. a report of hearing someone outside the residence was made at 701 Hubbard.

At 11:42 p.m. a fireworks complaint was reported at 4th &amp; Chestnut.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (11/15) 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 7:37 a.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 30 Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 8:58 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 412 NW 150 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:27 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 608 Windmill Ln. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:31 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 122 NW 130 Road in Hoisington. 
 
At 9:47 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1129 NW 220 Road. 
 
At 11:25 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 130
Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:24 p.m. an accident was reported at 1113 NE 50 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 4:35 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1400 block of NW K-96
Highway in Albert. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:22 p.m. an accident was reported in the 400 block of W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (11/15)Non-Injury Accident&nbsp;At 8:16 a.m. an accident was reported at 200 10th Street.At 9:06 a.m. an accident was reported at 200 10th Street.Injury AccidentAt 9:07 a.m. an accident was reported at 19th &amp; McKinley.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:14 a.m. a vehicle slid on the ice and struck another vehicle at 1514 K-96 Highway.At 9:33 a.m. a vehicle slid on the ice and struck another vehicle at 701 10th Street.BatteryAt 5:15 p.m. a report of checking a Rosewood client was made at 1302 Jefferson.ProwlerAt 9:21 p.m. a report of hearing someone outside the residence was made at 701 Hubbard.Fireworks ComplaintAt 11:42 p.m. a fireworks complaint was reported at 4th &amp; Chestnut.

Cop Shop (11/15)

11/15 BOOKED: D'quintis Rideaux on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $925.50 cash only; and on&nbsp;Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $752.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Bruce Browne on Gwinnet County Sheriff's Office warrant for Unpaid Child Support, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Charles Rowe, Sr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, per the county attorney.

RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, per the county attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/15 BOOKED: D'quintis Rideaux on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $925.50 cash only; and on&nbsp;Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $752.50 cash only.BOOKED: Bruce Browne on Gwinnet County Sheriff's Office warrant for Unpaid Child Support, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Charles Rowe, Sr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, per the county attorney.RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, per the county attorney.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (11/15)

Today Sunny, with a high near 35. Northwest wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 19. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming southwest in the evening.

Thursday A chance of sprinkles and flurries before 1 p.m., then a chance of sprinkles between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of sprinkles and flurries after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37. North wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Thursday Night A chance of flurries. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 13. North wind 7 to 10 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 28.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 14.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 37.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 15.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 45.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 51.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 52.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 35. Northwest wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 19. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming southwest in the evening.Thursday A chance of sprinkles and flurries before 1 p.m., then a chance of sprinkles between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of sprinkles and flurries after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37. North wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Thursday Night A chance of flurries. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 13. North wind 7 to 10 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 28.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 14.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 37.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 15.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 45.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Monday Sunny, with a high near 51.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 52.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's Weather

LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will once again host the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25 at the museum complex in La Crosse. 

Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. 

There will be live musical performances including piano and organ. Visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, or something new this year, extra-large Kansas-grown popcorn. There will also be a special project for the kids in the one-room school.

Santa Claus will arrive at 6 p.m. on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. For kids of all ages, La Crosse Fire District #4 will be serving hot dogs and chocolate milk or water.

There will be a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th-century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books.

Events begin at 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 26 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at <a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/RCHS">www.rushcounty.org/RCHS</a> or call 785-222-2808.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668462962541.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submittted LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will once again host the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25 at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live musical performances including piano and organ. Visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, or something new this year, extra-large Kansas-grown popcorn. There will also be a special project for the kids in the one-room school.Santa Claus will arrive at 6 p.m. on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. For kids of all ages, La Crosse Fire District #4 will be serving hot dogs and chocolate milk or water.There will be a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th-century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books.Events begin at 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 26 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at <a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/RCHS">www.rushcounty.org/RCHS</a> or call 785-222-2808.

La Crosse hosts annual Old-Fashioned Christmas

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher There are two kinds of people in the world: people who hate snow and those of us who love it. If you think I am crazy, consider I grew up in Wisconsin. In my world, snow means picturesque landscapes coated in white, the fun of sledding, tubing, downhill skiing and snowmobile rides, and if you are lucky — a snow day. My farm friends might roll their eyes and say, what about chores. On my family’s dairy farm our cows were safe and warm in the barn, and we didn’t have to break ice or dig them out of the snow. We only had issues if temperatures were extremely low for a long enough time that the barn cleaner froze up. Those were not fun days. Since snow is a much rarer treat in Kansas, helping with livestock and navigating drifts on snowy days doesn’t really bother me. Plus, the snow never seems to last longer than a day or two so it melts before my excitement wears off. You might think it is too early to be wishing for snow but there are chances in the forecast, and I am filled with anticipation. I dream of fluffy floating flakes that fall peacefully as the sound is absorbed and the countryside is blanketed in white. That may be a bit of wishful thinking since Kansas snow often seems like it is right out of the blizzard from the Claymation classic “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” The drier, drifting snow that whips across the Kansas plains is exactly where I imagine the Abominable Snowman. Even if it isn’t the picture perfectness of my dreams, snow is needed. This year’s drought conditions have ensured that pretty much all farmers are excited about any precipitation regardless of form. The unexpected break from our busy lives can be a blessing too as we pause our daily routines and postpone plans. Snow days are a special kind of boost to moral because they often include spending time with our loved ones and doing all the little things that we never have time for otherwise. On days when the world shut down, my family often had a blast and made lasting memories. In my younger years, snow days were spent making forts with my brothers. As I grew older, my dad would take us out for a snowmobile ride. Mom was ready with snacks to warm us up while watching movies as a family. Snow days have brought me so much joy because they are almost always spent with family. In the aftermath of the pandemic there has been debate about whether or not remote work and school means the end of snow days. I have been heartened to see that many educators fighting to keep snow days. There is great value in disrupted schedules making time for joy and togetherness. Today when I end up canceling plans because of snow, it usually allows me to spend more time helping on the farm. Checking on livestock and making the rounds on the farm don’t seem like work when you are with your favorite people and have nowhere else to be. Quality time working is just as fulfilling as play. If we are lucky enough and get great snowfalls this winter, remember not to spend too much time worrying about canceled plans or the work that is looming. Instead, I hope you will join me in embracing snow for the beauty, the moisture and the moments of togetherness.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher There are two kinds of people in the world: people who hate snow and those of us who love it. If you think I am crazy, consider I grew up in Wisconsin. In my world, snow means picturesque landscapes coated in white, the fun of sledding, tubing, downhill skiing and snowmobile rides, and if you are lucky — a snow day. My farm friends might roll their eyes and say, what about chores. On my family’s dairy farm our cows were safe and warm in the barn, and we didn’t have to break ice or dig them out of the snow. We only had issues if temperatures were extremely low for a long enough time that the barn cleaner froze up. Those were not fun days. Since snow is a much rarer treat in Kansas, helping with livestock and navigating drifts on snowy days doesn’t really bother me. Plus, the snow never seems to last longer than a day or two so it melts before my excitement wears off. You might think it is too early to be wishing for snow but there are chances in the forecast, and I am filled with anticipation. I dream of fluffy floating flakes that fall peacefully as the sound is absorbed and the countryside is blanketed in white. That may be a bit of wishful thinking since Kansas snow often seems like it is right out of the blizzard from the Claymation classic “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” The drier, drifting snow that whips across the Kansas plains is exactly where I imagine the Abominable Snowman. Even if it isn’t the picture perfectness of my dreams, snow is needed. This year’s drought conditions have ensured that pretty much all farmers are excited about any precipitation regardless of form. The unexpected break from our busy lives can be a blessing too as we pause our daily routines and postpone plans. Snow days are a special kind of boost to moral because they often include spending time with our loved ones and doing all the little things that we never have time for otherwise. On days when the world shut down, my family often had a blast and made lasting memories. In my younger years, snow days were spent making forts with my brothers. As I grew older, my dad would take us out for a snowmobile ride. Mom was ready with snacks to warm us up while watching movies as a family. Snow days have brought me so much joy because they are almost always spent with family. In the aftermath of the pandemic there has been debate about whether or not remote work and school means the end of snow days. I have been heartened to see that many educators fighting to keep snow days. There is great value in disrupted schedules making time for joy and togetherness. Today when I end up canceling plans because of snow, it usually allows me to spend more time helping on the farm. Checking on livestock and making the rounds on the farm don’t seem like work when you are with your favorite people and have nowhere else to be. Quality time working is just as fulfilling as play. If we are lucky enough and get great snowfalls this winter, remember not to spend too much time worrying about canceled plans or the work that is looming. Instead, I hope you will join me in embracing snow for the beauty, the moisture and the moments of togetherness."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Dreaming of snow days

The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Remembering Carl Soden” on Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 12 – 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; 

Carl Soden served as the first Great Bend Recreation Director for 31 years.&nbsp; He also had an amazing navy career serving on Admiral Nimitz’s Staff during World War II.&nbsp; Join us and learn about his experiences drawn from conversations and his oral history.&nbsp; Linda McCaffery will be the speaker for the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>.&nbsp; Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602181603891.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Remembering Carl Soden” on Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 12 – 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; Carl Soden served as the first Great Bend Recreation Director for 31 years.&nbsp; He also had an amazing navy career serving on Admiral Nimitz’s Staff during World War II.&nbsp; Join us and learn about his experiences drawn from conversations and his oral history.&nbsp; Linda McCaffery will be the speaker for the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>.&nbsp; Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

GBRC: Stop 'N Learn - Remembering Carl Soden

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

-The County Commission will meet as the Board of County Canvassers on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. in the Office of the County Clerk. At that time, they will canvass the November 8, 2022, General Election ballots.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Agenda Meeting Nov. 16 9 a.m. or following the close of the canvass until close

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the October 26, 2022, the November 2, 2022, and the November 9, 2022, Regular Meetings are not available.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ROSEWOOD SERVICES ROOTS AND WINGS FOUNDATION: Letter of Support: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Howard Partington, Rosewood Services, will provide details. The Rosewood Services Roots and Wings Foundation requests the Commission provide a Letter of Support for a Kansas Department of Transportation grant application. Under the application, the Foundation will apply for the replacement of two older mini vans and $10,000.00 in operating funds. Both the vans and operational monies will be used to advance transportation services for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY ENGINEER: 2023 Biennial Bridge Inspections: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. The County Engineer posted a Request for Proposals on Vendor Registry seeking an engineering firm to perform the 2023 Biennial Bridge Inspections. Work includes routine bridge inspections following the Kansas Department of Transportation’s “Local Routine Bridge and Element Level Inspection Scope of Services and Forms” guidelines. Barton County is required to have all 372 bridge length structures inspected every two years. Three proposals were received. The County Commission will be asked to consider the proposals received and select a firm to do the inspections in the spring of 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. SOLID WASTE: Solid Waste Planning Committee: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. Per KSA 65-3405, Barton County is required to form and maintain a Solid Waste Planning Committee to develop and perform an annual review of the Solid Waste Management Plan, which is then approved by the Commission. This committee is comprised of representatives of Cities, Counties and the private industry as served by the Barton County Landfill.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Acceptance of the CDC Closing the Gap with Social Determinates of Health Accelerator Plans Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Karen Winkelman, Health Director, will present details. The Health Department has been notified that it has received $29,000.00 through the Center of Disease Control (CDC) Gap with Social Determinates of Health Accelerator Plans program. The primary focus of this grant is to reach the underserved population. It is anticipated, should the funding be accepted, it would be used to offset the salary of the Health Educator and for program supplies.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Remodel of Bathrooms and Doorways: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Winkelman will present details. The Health Department accepted proposals for the remodel of certain areas of the Health Department to provide for a decontamination and washer / dryer area and to provide a meeting room better suited to larger meetings when dealing with HIPPArelated topics. Brentwood Builders submitted the only proposal at a bid of $70,928.00. Ms. Winkelman has received authorization to reallocate certain grant funding to cover the majority of the project cost.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2022, and Friday, November 25, 2022, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Barton County Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will be closed both days. The Barton County Landfill will be closed on Thursday, November 24th. It will reopen on Friday, November 25, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. On Saturday, November 26, it will return to normal operational hours. Emergency services will be in normal operation. The next meeting of the Commission will be Wednesday, November 30, 2022.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. – Off-System Bridge 297 Deck Replacement Bids – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Conservation District.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Program Review – Mark Kircher, Wheatland Project Manager.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – The Commission and the administrative team will tour the former Pennys building, located at the corner of Broadway and Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Jon Prescott is scheduled for November 17, 2022.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 23, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010099167.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3QXLdEd. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.-The County Commission will meet as the Board of County Canvassers on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. in the Office of the County Clerk. At that time, they will canvass the November 8, 2022, General Election ballots.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERSAgenda Meeting Nov. 16 9 a.m. or following the close of the canvass until closeI. OPENING BUSINESS:&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the October 26, 2022, the November 2, 2022, and the November 9, 2022, Regular Meetings are not available.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ROSEWOOD SERVICES ROOTS AND WINGS FOUNDATION: Letter of Support: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Howard Partington, Rosewood Services, will provide details. The Rosewood Services Roots and Wings Foundation requests the Commission provide a Letter of Support for a Kansas Department of Transportation grant application. Under the application, the Foundation will apply for the replacement of two older mini vans and $10,000.00 in operating funds. Both the vans and operational monies will be used to advance transportation services for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY ENGINEER: 2023 Biennial Bridge Inspections: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. The County Engineer posted a Request for Proposals on Vendor Registry seeking an engineering firm to perform the 2023 Biennial Bridge Inspections. Work includes routine bridge inspections following the Kansas Department of Transportation’s “Local Routine Bridge and Element Level Inspection Scope of Services and Forms” guidelines. Barton County is required to have all 372 bridge length structures inspected every two years. Three proposals were received. The County Commission will be asked to consider the proposals received and select a firm to do the inspections in the spring of 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. SOLID WASTE: Solid Waste Planning Committee: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. Per KSA 65-3405, Barton County is required to form and maintain a Solid Waste Planning Committee to develop and perform an annual review of the Solid Waste Management Plan, which is then approved by the Commission. This committee is comprised of representatives of Cities, Counties and the private industry as served by the Barton County Landfill.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Acceptance of the CDC Closing the Gap with Social Determinates of Health Accelerator Plans Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Karen Winkelman, Health Director, will present details. The Health Department has been notified that it has received $29,000.00 through the Center of Disease Control (CDC) Gap with Social Determinates of Health Accelerator Plans program. The primary focus of this grant is to reach the underserved population. It is anticipated, should the funding be accepted, it would be used to offset the salary of the Health Educator and for program supplies.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Remodel of Bathrooms and Doorways: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Winkelman will present details. The Health Department accepted proposals for the remodel of certain areas of the Health Department to provide for a decontamination and washer / dryer area and to provide a meeting room better suited to larger meetings when dealing with HIPPArelated topics. Brentwood Builders submitted the only proposal at a bid of $70,928.00. Ms. Winkelman has received authorization to reallocate certain grant funding to cover the majority of the project cost.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2022, and Friday, November 25, 2022, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Barton County Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will be closed both days. The Barton County Landfill will be closed on Thursday, November 24th. It will reopen on Friday, November 25, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. On Saturday, November 26, it will return to normal operational hours. Emergency services will be in normal operation. The next meeting of the Commission will be Wednesday, November 30, 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. – Off-System Bridge 297 Deck Replacement Bids – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Conservation District.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Program Review – Mark Kircher, Wheatland Project Manager.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – The Commission and the administrative team will tour the former Pennys building, located at the corner of Broadway and Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Jon Prescott is scheduled for November 17, 2022.V. OTHER BUSINESS:&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 23, 2022.VI. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (11/16)

The Barton Performing Arts Department invites&nbsp;the community to enjoy nostalgic, holiday-themed entertainment at its annual holiday concert “A Hometown Holiday” at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 2 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

“The Holiday Concert is a great event to start the holiday season, with songs and dances that can bring joy and happiness to all ages,” Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley said. “The audience can expect to have a great time enjoying the moods and music that are a staple of the holiday season.”

The concert will feature holiday selections by Barton’s Concert Choir, Hilltop Singers, Barton Jazz Ensemble and Barton Dance Theatre.

While admission is free, donations are accepted and appreciated. All proceeds will benefit the Fine and Performing Arts students.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668524736715.jpeg" alt="The Barton Concert Choir performs at last year’s holiday Concert." />
 <figcaption>The Barton Concert Choir performs at last year’s holiday Concert.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Performing Arts Department invites&nbsp;the community to enjoy nostalgic, holiday-themed entertainment at its annual holiday concert “A Hometown Holiday” at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 2 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.“The Holiday Concert is a great event to start the holiday season, with songs and dances that can bring joy and happiness to all ages,” Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley said. “The audience can expect to have a great time enjoying the moods and music that are a staple of the holiday season.”The concert will feature holiday selections by Barton’s Concert Choir, Hilltop Singers, Barton Jazz Ensemble and Barton Dance Theatre.While admission is free, donations are accepted and appreciated. All proceeds will benefit the Fine and Performing Arts students.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Performing Arts presents 'A Hometown Holiday' concert

PAWNEE COUNTY – A Pawnee County judge charged a Kansas man with having sex with a child during a hearing on Nov. 10.&nbsp;

James Speer, 30, Larned, is&nbsp; charged with rape of a child under 14 years of age and oral sodomy of a child under 14 years of age, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

The crimes are alleged to have occurred at a residence in Garfield on or about May 25 or 26, 2013. Law enforcement, however, was not notified of the allegations until November 2020. The Pawnee County Sheriff's Office handled the investigation.

If convicted, Speer faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole until he has served at least 25 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668512042910.png" alt="Speer-photo. Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Speer-photo. Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY – A Pawnee County judge charged a Kansas man with having sex with a child during a hearing on Nov. 10.&nbsp;James Speer, 30, Larned, is&nbsp; charged with rape of a child under 14 years of age and oral sodomy of a child under 14 years of age, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.The crimes are alleged to have occurred at a residence in Garfield on or about May 25 or 26, 2013. Law enforcement, however, was not notified of the allegations until November 2020. The Pawnee County Sheriff's Office handled the investigation.If convicted, Speer faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole until he has served at least 25 years.Arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 13, according to McNett. Speer is currently in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections after convictions that include four sex crimes, obstruction, aggravated intimidation of a witness and criminal threat, according to the KDOC.