By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

No one can see the future, but maybe they can shape it. That was the goal of Monday's special USD 428 Board of Education Meeting. Kansas Association of School Board Field Specialist Sue Givens and the board reviewed results from a recent survey issued by the district. The goal, Givens said, was to use that information to shape the district in the future.

"What's it look like?" she asked. "What do you see people doing? What's the general mood? What does it look like in terms of resources and processes? How have those changed? What's different from today? What do you really want to change about your district in the next five years as you look at the big picture?"

With nearly half of the 500-plus respondents being district staff, returns from the survey indicate a strong desire to retain and compensate staff. Board President Jacquie Disque said making that staff happy is vital for the district to serve its purpose of teaching kids.

 "If you don't have a staff that's happy, you're not going to get student success," she said. "I don't care how hard you try, I don't how many assessments you do, I don't care how many people are in your class, if you don't have staff that is satisfied, it's not going to be successful."

Givens dared the board to dream of things the district should start doing, stop doing and continue doing. Each member then cast several votes to rank the importance of each of the items. Givens will continue working with district administration to develop an action plan to make some of those changes over the next several months.

The board agreed improving retention, competition, and longevity benefits for staff were crucial, and also agreed updating facilities with more secure front doors and storm shelters should be a priority. Superintendent Khris Thexton suggested creating a new-teacher academy to make becoming a teacher easier for local students. The board also liked the idea of a 2-week pay cycle, and more community involvement for all schools.

Most of the board agreed that better policies are needed regarding cell phones in classrooms. Several members also voted to stop measuring student success by assessment scores, and to stop the perception that college is the best choice for all students. 

The board agreed several programs need to continue, from pre-kindergarten programming to incentives to retain staff. Thexton said the district should continue being fiscally responsible, and many on the board agreed the collaboration with the city and Rec Center has been mutually beneficial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668022187965.jpeg" alt="USD 428 Board of Education members&nbsp; Aaron Emerson and Susan Young vote on ways to improve the district during Monday's special session." />
 <figcaption>USD 428 Board of Education members&nbsp; Aaron Emerson and Susan Young vote on ways to improve the district during Monday's special session.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNo one can see the future, but maybe they can shape it. That was the goal of Monday's special USD 428 Board of Education Meeting. Kansas Association of School Board Field Specialist Sue Givens and the board reviewed results from a recent survey issued by the district. The goal, Givens said, was to use that information to shape the district in the future."What's it look like?" she asked. "What do you see people doing? What's the general mood? What does it look like in terms of resources and processes? How have those changed? What's different from today? What do you really want to change about your district in the next five years as you look at the big picture?"With nearly half of the 500-plus respondents being district staff, returns from the survey indicate a strong desire to retain and compensate staff. Board President Jacquie Disque said making that staff happy is vital for the district to serve its purpose of teaching kids. "If you don't have a staff that's happy, you're not going to get student success," she said. "I don't care how hard you try, I don't how many assessments you do, I don't care how many people are in your class, if you don't have staff that is satisfied, it's not going to be successful."Givens dared the board to dream of things the district should start doing, stop doing and continue doing. Each member then cast several votes to rank the importance of each of the items. Givens will continue working with district administration to develop an action plan to make some of those changes over the next several months.The board agreed improving retention, competition, and longevity benefits for staff were crucial, and also agreed updating facilities with more secure front doors and storm shelters should be a priority. Superintendent Khris Thexton suggested creating a new-teacher academy to make becoming a teacher easier for local students. The board also liked the idea of a 2-week pay cycle, and more community involvement for all schools.Most of the board agreed that better policies are needed regarding cell phones in classrooms. Several members also voted to stop measuring student success by assessment scores, and to stop the perception that college is the best choice for all students. The board agreed several programs need to continue, from pre-kindergarten programming to incentives to retain staff. Thexton said the district should continue being fiscally responsible, and many on the board agreed the collaboration with the city and Rec Center has been mutually beneficial.

Goal survey leads Great Bend school board to dream of better district

The Shafer Art Gallery will unveil its next exhibit “Wendy Tan: A Hidden Kingdom” with a reception at 2 p.m. Nov. 19 in the Gallery, which will feature a short artist talk, comments by the director and light refreshments. Admission is free.

Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said Tan’s work is a fascinating glimpse at the overlooked details of nature and the stories our imagination can tell about them.

“This family-friendly exhibition runs through the holiday season and we hope the community will take the opportunity to come and visit Wendy Tan’s beautiful

and whimsical ants and other beasties,” he said. “Wendy takes a close look and discovers an otherworldly beauty.”

Tan said her works have been greatly influenced by nature and that she loves small flowers and plants, specifically dry and curly leaves. “They are small but may still have unique values that are attractive,” she said. “For example, they own beautiful, detailed lines, textures, and forms; however, we easily ignore as we do not pay close attention to them. Only if we magnify them, their insignificant values appear to attract our attention.”

Tan has received numerous awards throughout her artistic career including the “Best of Show” Award from the Yosemite Museum Gallery, the “Best of Photographer” Award from Forum Magazine, the Cash/Merit Awards from The Municipal Arts Councils and the Art Study Tour Award in Switzerland. She has exhibited her work in prestigious galleries and museums nationally and internationally such as The Huntington (Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens) in San Marino, Calif., Yosemite Museum Gallery in Yosemite, Calif., Kings Arts Center in Hanford, Calif., Carnegie Art Center in Turlock, Calif., Gallery 5 at Gallery Row in Oakhurst, Calif., Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dannis, Mass., Wallowa Valley Arts Council in Joseph, Oregon, Mark Arts in Wichita, CityArts Art Gallery in Wichita, Wesleyan University Art Center in Salina, Hays Arts Councils in Hays and the Fine Art Asia in Hong Kong. The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.&nbsp;For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668093104159.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaThe Shafer Art Gallery will unveil its next exhibit “Wendy Tan: A Hidden Kingdom” with a reception at 2 p.m. Nov. 19 in the Gallery, which will feature a short artist talk, comments by the director and light refreshments. Admission is free.Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said Tan’s work is a fascinating glimpse at the overlooked details of nature and the stories our imagination can tell about them.“This family-friendly exhibition runs through the holiday season and we hope the community will take the opportunity to come and visit Wendy Tan’s beautifuland whimsical ants and other beasties,” he said. “Wendy takes a close look and discovers an otherworldly beauty.”Tan said her works have been greatly influenced by nature and that she loves small flowers and plants, specifically dry and curly leaves. “They are small but may still have unique values that are attractive,” she said. “For example, they own beautiful, detailed lines, textures, and forms; however, we easily ignore as we do not pay close attention to them. Only if we magnify them, their insignificant values appear to attract our attention.”Tan has received numerous awards throughout her artistic career including the “Best of Show” Award from the Yosemite Museum Gallery, the “Best of Photographer” Award from Forum Magazine, the Cash/Merit Awards from The Municipal Arts Councils and the Art Study Tour Award in Switzerland. She has exhibited her work in prestigious galleries and museums nationally and internationally such as The Huntington (Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens) in San Marino, Calif., Yosemite Museum Gallery in Yosemite, Calif., Kings Arts Center in Hanford, Calif., Carnegie Art Center in Turlock, Calif., Gallery 5 at Gallery Row in Oakhurst, Calif., Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dannis, Mass., Wallowa Valley Arts Council in Joseph, Oregon, Mark Arts in Wichita, CityArts Art Gallery in Wichita, Wesleyan University Art Center in Salina, Hays Arts Councils in Hays and the Fine Art Asia in Hong Kong. The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.&nbsp;For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

Shafer Art Gallery presents 'Wendy Tan: A Hidden Kingdom' exhibit

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Oct. 19, 2022, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Osage ‑&nbsp;70 TE‑0481‑01 – Missouri Pacific Railroad right of way, from the west city limits to 5th Street, south to Holliday Street, east to 8th Street, north to Lakin Street, east to 9th Street, north to Missouri Pacific Railroad right of way, and east to the east city limits in Osage City, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,847,358.60.

Sherman ‑&nbsp;70‑91 KA‑6539‑01 – I‑70, two light towers at Exit #1 (eastbound and westbound) located approximately 1.2 miles east of the Colorado/Kansas state line and two light towers at the westbound on and off ramps at the rest area located approximately 7.1 miles east of the Colorado/Kansas state line, lighting, Phillips Southern Electric Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $219,711.00.

Anderson ‑&nbsp;169‑2 KA‑6668‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from the roundabout located south of Garnett north to the Anderson/Franklin county line, surfacing, 12.7 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $2,225,604.34.

Coffey ‑&nbsp;35‑16 KA‑6125‑01 ‑ I‑35, bridges #005 and #006 over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway located 6.5 miles east of the Lyon/Coffey county line, bridge deck patching, PCI Roads, LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $773,620.00.

Greenwood ‑&nbsp;99‑37 KA‑6669‑01 ‑ K‑99, from the east U.S. 400/K‑99 junction north to the east U.S. 54/K‑99 junction, sealing, 16.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $679,802.82.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6259‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, U.S. 75, U.S. 75B, K‑47 and K‑39, in the counties of Wilson, Greenwood, Montgomery, Neosho and Woodson, signing, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $722,813.30.

Butler ‑&nbsp;54‑8 KA‑6640‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from the Butler/Sedgwick county line (at the 159th Street/U.S. 54 junction) east to the west city limits of Augusta, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 9.0 miles, Pearson Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $3,355,053.70.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;15‑87 KA‑6710‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the north city limits of Derby north to the south edge of wearing surface of KTA bridge, pavement patching, 4.6 miles, Prado Construction LLC, Valley Center, Kansas, $2,507,531.25.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;15‑87 KA‑6846‑01 ‑ K‑15, pavement marking, 3.9 miles, Prado Construction LLC, Valley Center, Kansas, $485,908.95.

Sumner ‑&nbsp;49‑96 KA‑6711‑01 ‑ K‑49, from the U.S. 81/K‑49 junction north to the east U.S.160/K‑49 junction, milling and overlay, 17.3 miles, Pearson Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $2,537,466.00.

Finney ‑&nbsp;23‑28 KA‑6635‑01 ‑ K‑23, from the Gray/Finney county line north to the east K‑156/K‑23 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $934,313.60.

Gray ‑&nbsp;23‑35 KA‑6634‑01 ‑ K‑23, from the north city limits of Cimarron north to the Gray/Finney county line, milling and overlay, 12.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,507,733.00.

Seward ‑&nbsp;83‑88 KA‑3253‑01 ‑ U.S. 83, from 0.3 mile south of RS-933 north to U.S. 160 (including bridge #004), milling and overlay, 7.9 miles, J &amp; R Sand Company Inc., Liberal, Kansas, $18,979,543.32.

The following projects were approved from the Sept. 21, 2022, letting.

Ellis ‑&nbsp;26 C‑5125‑01 ‑ Intersections of Old Highway 40 (RS 1910) with Pfeifer Avenue (RS 231) and Walker Avenue (RS 449), intersection improvement, 0.7 mile, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., El Dorado, Kansas, $74,650.29.

Phillips ‑&nbsp;36‑74 KA‑5433‑01 ‑ U.S. 36 (State Street), from between 5th Street and 6th Street to 8th Street in Phillipsburg, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $1,141,485.65.

Rice ‑&nbsp;80 TE‑0504‑01 ‑ Cleveland Avenue, from N Broadway Avenue/K‑96 to 1st Street in Sterling, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, Multicon Inc., Park City, Kansas, $316,569.30.

Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑5432‑01 ‑ U.S. 50B1, westbound from Washington Street to between Ballinger Street and Center Street in Garden City, grading and surfacing, 0.3 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $2,206,032.65.

Wichita ‑&nbsp;96‑102 KA‑3274‑01 ‑ K‑96, from Indian Street to Water Street in Leoti, surfacing, 0.9 mile, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $8,177,969.90.

Elk ‑&nbsp;25 C‑5080‑01 – Bridge over the Elk River located 2.3 miles north and 7.0 miles west of Howard, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Bridges, Inc., Newton, Kansas, $646,504.

Butler ‑&nbsp;8 C‑4935‑01 ‑ Butler Road (RS-72), from the north edge of K‑254 to 500 feet north of SW Parallel Road (excluding 1,560 feet completed under project C‑4588‑01), grading and surfacing, 2.2 miles, Alan's Excavating Inc., Augusta, Kansas, $2,289,973.85.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 C‑5077‑01 – Bridge over Rock Creek on 21st Street N located 0.7 mile east of 391st Street W, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Mies Construction, Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $657,142.

Scott ‑&nbsp;96‑86 KA‑3258‑01 ‑ K‑96, from the west city limits of Scott City, east to the beginning of the existing Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) at Church Street and from the east end of the existing PCCP near College Street east to the east city limits of Scott City (near Jefferson Street), pavement reconstruction, 0.8 mile, Vogts-Parga Construction LLC, Newton, Kansas, $8,103,591.41.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597694281633.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Oct. 19, 2022, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastOsage ‑&nbsp;70 TE‑0481‑01 – Missouri Pacific Railroad right of way, from the west city limits to 5th Street, south to Holliday Street, east to 8th Street, north to Lakin Street, east to 9th Street, north to Missouri Pacific Railroad right of way, and east to the east city limits in Osage City, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,847,358.60.District Three — NorthwestSherman ‑&nbsp;70‑91 KA‑6539‑01 – I‑70, two light towers at Exit #1 (eastbound and westbound) located approximately 1.2 miles east of the Colorado/Kansas state line and two light towers at the westbound on and off ramps at the rest area located approximately 7.1 miles east of the Colorado/Kansas state line, lighting, Phillips Southern Electric Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $219,711.00.District Four — SoutheastAnderson ‑&nbsp;169‑2 KA‑6668‑01 ‑ U.S. 169, from the roundabout located south of Garnett north to the Anderson/Franklin county line, surfacing, 12.7 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $2,225,604.34.Coffey ‑&nbsp;35‑16 KA‑6125‑01 ‑ I‑35, bridges #005 and #006 over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway located 6.5 miles east of the Lyon/Coffey county line, bridge deck patching, PCI Roads, LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $773,620.00.Greenwood ‑&nbsp;99‑37 KA‑6669‑01 ‑ K‑99, from the east U.S. 400/K‑99 junction north to the east U.S. 54/K‑99 junction, sealing, 16.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $679,802.82.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6259‑01 ‑ U.S. 400, U.S. 75, U.S. 75B, K‑47 and K‑39, in the counties of Wilson, Greenwood, Montgomery, Neosho and Woodson, signing, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $722,813.30.District Five — South CentralButler ‑&nbsp;54‑8 KA‑6640‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, from the Butler/Sedgwick county line (at the 159th Street/U.S. 54 junction) east to the west city limits of Augusta, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 9.0 miles, Pearson Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $3,355,053.70.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;15‑87 KA‑6710‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the north city limits of Derby north to the south edge of wearing surface of KTA bridge, pavement patching, 4.6 miles, Prado Construction LLC, Valley Center, Kansas, $2,507,531.25.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;15‑87 KA‑6846‑01 ‑ K‑15, pavement marking, 3.9 miles, Prado Construction LLC, Valley Center, Kansas, $485,908.95.Sumner ‑&nbsp;49‑96 KA‑6711‑01 ‑ K‑49, from the U.S. 81/K‑49 junction north to the east U.S.160/K‑49 junction, milling and overlay, 17.3 miles, Pearson Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $2,537,466.00.District Six — SouthwestFinney ‑&nbsp;23‑28 KA‑6635‑01 ‑ K‑23, from the Gray/Finney county line north to the east K‑156/K‑23 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $934,313.60.Gray ‑&nbsp;23‑35 KA‑6634‑01 ‑ K‑23, from the north city limits of Cimarron north to the Gray/Finney county line, milling and overlay, 12.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,507,733.00.Seward ‑&nbsp;83‑88 KA‑3253‑01 ‑ U.S. 83, from 0.3 mile south of RS-933 north to U.S. 160 (including bridge #004), milling and overlay, 7.9 miles, J &amp; R Sand Company Inc., Liberal, Kansas, $18,979,543.32.The following projects were approved from the Sept. 21, 2022, letting.Ellis ‑&nbsp;26 C‑5125‑01 ‑ Intersections of Old Highway 40 (RS 1910) with Pfeifer Avenue (RS 231) and Walker Avenue (RS 449), intersection improvement, 0.7 mile, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., El Dorado, Kansas, $74,650.29.Phillips ‑&nbsp;36‑74 KA‑5433‑01 ‑ U.S. 36 (State Street), from between 5th Street and 6th Street to 8th Street in Phillipsburg, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $1,141,485.65.Rice ‑&nbsp;80 TE‑0504‑01 ‑ Cleveland Avenue, from N Broadway Avenue/K‑96 to 1st Street in Sterling, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, Multicon Inc., Park City, Kansas, $316,569.30.Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑5432‑01 ‑ U.S. 50B1, westbound from Washington Street to between Ballinger Street and Center Street in Garden City, grading and surfacing, 0.3 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $2,206,032.65.Wichita ‑&nbsp;96‑102 KA‑3274‑01 ‑ K‑96, from Indian Street to Water Street in Leoti, surfacing, 0.9 mile, Koss Construction Co., Topeka, Kansas, $8,177,969.90.Elk ‑&nbsp;25 C‑5080‑01 – Bridge over the Elk River located 2.3 miles north and 7.0 miles west of Howard, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Bridges, Inc., Newton, Kansas, $646,504.Butler ‑&nbsp;8 C‑4935‑01 ‑ Butler Road (RS-72), from the north edge of K‑254 to 500 feet north of SW Parallel Road (excluding 1,560 feet completed under project C‑4588‑01), grading and surfacing, 2.2 miles, Alan's Excavating Inc., Augusta, Kansas, $2,289,973.85.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 C‑5077‑01 – Bridge over Rock Creek on 21st Street N located 0.7 mile east of 391st Street W, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Mies Construction, Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $657,142.Scott ‑&nbsp;96‑86 KA‑3258‑01 ‑ K‑96, from the west city limits of Scott City, east to the beginning of the existing Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) at Church Street and from the east end of the existing PCCP near College Street east to the east city limits of Scott City (near Jefferson Street), pavement reconstruction, 0.8 mile, Vogts-Parga Construction LLC, Newton, Kansas, $8,103,591.41.

KDOT announces approved October bids

Great Bend High School Theatre will present its Fall Play, "The Norse Mythology Ragnasplosion" by Don Zolidas, Nov. 11-13 at the GBHS Auditorium, 2027 Morton Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Holly Johnson, GBHS theatre teacher and director, describes the show as a "hilarious representation of Norse mythology that will provide a fun&nbsp;night of laughs and ridiculousness."&nbsp;

Evening performances will be held on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and a matinee on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. 

General admission tickets can be purchased online for $5 per ticket and can be used at any of the three shows. Buy online -&nbsp;<a href="https://gofan.co/app/events/753799?schoolId=KS25138" target="_blank">https://gofan.co/app/events/753799?schoolId=KS25138</a>.&nbsp;

For more information about the GBHS Theatre Department, please contact the Activities Office at 620-793-1560.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668020932593.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend High School Theatre will present its Fall Play, "The Norse Mythology Ragnasplosion" by Don Zolidas, Nov. 11-13 at the GBHS Auditorium, 2027 Morton Street.&nbsp;&nbsp; Holly Johnson, GBHS theatre teacher and director, describes the show as a "hilarious representation of Norse mythology that will provide a fun&nbsp;night of laughs and ridiculousness."&nbsp; Evening performances will be held on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and a matinee on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. General admission tickets can be purchased online for $5 per ticket and can be used at any of the three shows. Buy online -&nbsp;<a href="https://gofan.co/app/events/753799?schoolId=KS25138" target="_blank">https://gofan.co/app/events/753799?schoolId=KS25138</a>.&nbsp; For more information about the GBHS Theatre Department, please contact the Activities Office at 620-793-1560.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend High School Theatre presents fall play this weekend

On Wednesday, November 9, 2022, the Commission will meet for both the County and Fire District No. 1.  The County agenda meeting begins at 9:00 a.m., with the Fire District meeting immediately following.

COUNTYAPPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS:   -An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of October 26, 2022, and ending November 9, 2022.  NEW BUSINESS - ITEM A. BOARD APPOINTMENTS:  Health Department Advisory Committee:  -Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director, will provide details. Barton County has continued to solicit applicants for the Health Department Advisory Committee. The Health Department Advisory Committee provides guidance, recommendation and assistance to the Barton County Health Department staff. 

  EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  Longevity Pay:  -Matt Patzner, Operations Director, will request that the Commission authorize the 2022 payment of longevity.  Longevity pay is a supplemental compensation benefit designed for the employee who has established a long-term commitment to public service with Barton County.  Once a full-time employee has reached five years of continuous service, that employee will be rewarded longevity in the amount of $3.00 for each month of service, with half that for part-time employees.  Longevity payment, which is contingent on budgetary conditions, may be awarded in November of each year. 

   ADOPTION OF THE 2022 / 2023 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING:  -Mr. Patzner will provide details.  The Commission last adopted the 2022 / 2023 Authorized Positions Listing in August of this year and updated the listing in October.  At this time, the Commission will be asked to recategorize one temporary labor position to a regular part-time position for Road and Bridge.

ANTICIPATED ANNOUNCEMENTS:-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. 

 -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Friday, November 11, 2022, in observance of the Veterans Day holiday.  The Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will also be closed that day.  The Landfill be open from 8:00 a.m. 

– 11:00 a.m. on November 11, 2022, and then close for the remainder of the day.  Emergency services will be in normal operation.

-The Memorial Parks Advisory Committee has scheduled the dedication of the Fourth Stone at the Veterans Memorial for 1:30 p.m., Friday, November 11, 2022, Veterans Day.  The Ceremony will be held at the Golden Belt Memorial Park, 59 NW 50 Road, Great Bend, Kansas.  County officials may attend the dedication. 

 -County elected officials may attend the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development’s Pints and Politics Event, Monday, November 14, 2022, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Dry Lake Brewing, 1305 Main, Great Bend, Kansas. 

 -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.

FIRE DISTRICT NEW BUSINESS - OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHALL: Kansas Firefighter Recruitment and Safety Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chief Doug Hubbard will provide details. Fire District #1 was awarded a grant from the Office of the State Fire Marshall for replacement gear and an “Extractor” washing machine for the fire station. With the washer being delivered directly to the fire station after purchase through the Office of the State Fire Marshall, the final grant award was $15,000.00. This amount, coupled with operational funding, will allow for the purchase of gear, to include helmets and gloves. It is noted that this is a reimbursing grant and that some local funds will be used to make the needed purchases.

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: <a href="https://bit.ly/3wDyhLU?fbclid=IwAR0uYqmKQ3jwaq5r5zO8sfjIi2TrE0quKCZ1GrrEbr2wIvtuk96Spd4OfTQ" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/3wDyhLU</a>. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010086631.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>On Wednesday, November 9, 2022, the Commission will meet for both the County and Fire District No. 1. The County agenda meeting begins at 9:00 a.m., with the Fire District meeting immediately following.COUNTYAPPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of October 26, 2022, and ending November 9, 2022. NEW BUSINESS - ITEM A. BOARD APPOINTMENTS: Health Department Advisory Committee: -Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director, will provide details. Barton County has continued to solicit applicants for the Health Department Advisory Committee. The Health Department Advisory Committee provides guidance, recommendation and assistance to the Barton County Health Department staff. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: Longevity Pay: -Matt Patzner, Operations Director, will request that the Commission authorize the 2022 payment of longevity. Longevity pay is a supplemental compensation benefit designed for the employee who has established a long-term commitment to public service with Barton County. Once a full-time employee has reached five years of continuous service, that employee will be rewarded longevity in the amount of $3.00 for each month of service, with half that for part-time employees. Longevity payment, which is contingent on budgetary conditions, may be awarded in November of each year. ADOPTION OF THE 2022 / 2023 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING: -Mr. Patzner will provide details. The Commission last adopted the 2022 / 2023 Authorized Positions Listing in August of this year and updated the listing in October. At this time, the Commission will be asked to recategorize one temporary labor position to a regular part-time position for Road and Bridge.ANTICIPATED ANNOUNCEMENTS:-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. -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Friday, November 11, 2022, in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. The Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will also be closed that day. The Landfill be open from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on November 11, 2022, and then close for the remainder of the day. Emergency services will be in normal operation.-The Memorial Parks Advisory Committee has scheduled the dedication of the Fourth Stone at the Veterans Memorial for 1:30 p.m., Friday, November 11, 2022, Veterans Day. The Ceremony will be held at the Golden Belt Memorial Park, 59 NW 50 Road, Great Bend, Kansas. County officials may attend the dedication. -County elected officials may attend the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development’s Pints and Politics Event, Monday, November 14, 2022, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Dry Lake Brewing, 1305 Main, Great Bend, Kansas. -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.FIRE DISTRICT NEW BUSINESS - OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHALL: Kansas Firefighter Recruitment and Safety Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chief Doug Hubbard will provide details. Fire District #1 was awarded a grant from the Office of the State Fire Marshall for replacement gear and an “Extractor” washing machine for the fire station. With the washer being delivered directly to the fire station after purchase through the Office of the State Fire Marshall, the final grant award was $15,000.00. This amount, coupled with operational funding, will allow for the purchase of gear, to include helmets and gloves. It is noted that this is a reimbursing grant and that some local funds will be used to make the needed purchases.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: <a href="https://bit.ly/3wDyhLU?fbclid=IwAR0uYqmKQ3jwaq5r5zO8sfjIi2TrE0quKCZ1GrrEbr2wIvtuk96Spd4OfTQ" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/3wDyhLU</a>. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Action from the Barton County Commission meeting (11/9)

Hear this month's Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and McKinley Phillips, the Early Education Center Director at Sunflower Diversified Services. The show aired Nov. 9, 2022.

The Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each 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 Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and McKinley Phillips, the Early Education Center Director at Sunflower Diversified Services. The show aired Nov. 9, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/4fvpm2fg/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Sunflower Show: Early Education Center Director McKinley Phillips

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In 2015, Terry Esfeld with Great Bend Livestock Company addressed the Great
Bend City Council to request that the sewer bill for the business he owns,
located on Railroad Avenue, be reduced. 
Esfeld uses the business to house cattle for a few months of the year at which
time they consume a great deal of water that is not disposed of down the sewer.
At that time, the governing body approved to charge $25 per month for his sewer
bill. 
Due to sewer staff changes at the Front Door unaware of the agreement, the
Livestock Company’s bill was calculated for a new sewer rate this year which
increased by approximately $240. 
After being notified, Great Bend staff reduced Esfeld’s sewer rate back to $25. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis was asked if this arrangement was
setting a precedent. "The precedent has already been set, a little bit, by a past council," said Francis. "The water was not going down into the sanitary sewer. He was using water, but it wasn't returning back into the sewer. They thought it was practical for him to not pay the increased sewer bill." 
In 2020, the city approved new sewer rates that are supposed to increase by
3.5% each year. The city council voted to increase Livestock Company’s $25
charge by 3.5% each year, making the amount $26.79 for 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657238342622.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 2015, Terry Esfeld with Great Bend Livestock Company addressed the Great
Bend City Council to request that the sewer bill for the business he owns,
located on Railroad Avenue, be reduced. 
Esfeld uses the business to house cattle for a few months of the year at which
time they consume a great deal of water that is not disposed of down the sewer.
At that time, the governing body approved to charge $25 per month for his sewer
bill. 
Due to sewer staff changes at the Front Door unaware of the agreement, the
Livestock Company’s bill was calculated for a new sewer rate this year which
increased by approximately $240. 
After being notified, Great Bend staff reduced Esfeld’s sewer rate back to $25. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis was asked if this arrangement was
setting a precedent. "The precedent has already been set, a little bit, by a past council," said Francis. "The water was not going down into the sanitary sewer. He was using water, but it wasn't returning back into the sewer. They thought it was practical for him to not pay the increased sewer bill." 
In 2020, the city approved new sewer rates that are supposed to increase by
3.5% each year. The city council voted to increase Livestock Company’s $25
charge by 3.5% each year, making the amount $26.79 for 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend adjusts sewer rate for ‘unique’ business in town

Great Bend Police needing help to locate subject

STAFFORD COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 7 a.m. Thursday in Stafford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Nissan Sentra driven by Jerold D. Lorence, 62, Minneapolis, Kan., was eastbound on U.S. 50 approximately two miles east of the U.S. 281 Junction.&nbsp; 

The car struck a deer that ran into the roadway.

EMS transported a passenger Cynthia M. Thomas, 63, Larned, to the Stafford County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lorence was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

STAFFORD COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 7 a.m. Thursday in Stafford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Nissan Sentra driven by Jerold D. Lorence, 62, Minneapolis, Kan., was eastbound on U.S. 50 approximately two miles east of the U.S. 281 Junction.&nbsp; The car struck a deer that ran into the roadway.EMS transported a passenger Cynthia M. Thomas, 63, Larned, to the Stafford County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lorence was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Larned woman hospitalized after car strikes a deer

11/9 BOOKED: Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Bobbie Solko on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Child Endangerment x2, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jessica Garcia on Stafford County District Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Bradley Ehster on Hoisington Police Department case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.

BOOKED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation violation, bond set at $263.00 cash only.

RELEASED: Bobbie Solko on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Child Endangerment x2, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Leonard Boese on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Bradley Ehster on Hoisington Police Department case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Morgan White on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, on 18-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation violation, after posting cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/9 BOOKED: Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Bobbie Solko on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Child Endangerment x2, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jessica Garcia on Stafford County District Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Bradley Ehster on Hoisington Police Department case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.BOOKED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation violation, bond set at $263.00 cash only.RELEASED: Bobbie Solko on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Child Endangerment x2, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Leonard Boese on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Bradley Ehster on Hoisington Police Department case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Morgan White on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, on 18-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Joy Little on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation violation, after posting cash bond.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (11/9)

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. Blake Sullivan was just 21 years old when he died of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) on Oct. 18, 2018, just two weeks shy of November. Four years later, Sully's Foundation is still going strong to raise awareness and help those who suffer from epilepsy. Jack Westhoff graduated from Great Bend High School alongside Sullivan in 2015, and helped create the foundation in 2019.

"We got together after Blake's passing and decided this is a tragic event and we just didn't want to let it be in vain," he said. "Blake definitely had the spirit of helping people and spreading joy, and we wanted to find a way to do that, and help prevent people from feeling what we were feeling in that moment."

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are approximately 1.16 SUDEP cases for every 1,000 people with epilepsy. The exact cause of SUDEP is unknown but may be attributed to breathing difficulties or cardiac arrest during a seizure. An estimated 3,000 people, mostly in their 20s or younger, die from SUDEP each year.

After Blake's death in 2018, Westhoff teamed up with fellow classmates Shade Wondra and Kiley (Heine) Wondra, along with some of Blake's Lambda Chi fraternity brothers from Kansas State University, to start the foundation. Numbers are unavailable from this year's fundraiser that wrapped up over the weekend, but Sully's Foundation raised more than $27,000 in its first two years.

Sully's Foundation has teamed up with the Denver-based Chelsea Hutchison Foundation. Hutchison was just 16 when she died from SUDEP in her sleep. Both foundations now use fundraisers to purchase movement monitors and seizure-response dogs for epilepsy patients.

"They've been around a lot longer than we have, so they've got their eye on how to source difference seizure monitors and who to talk to to get some support dogs," said Westhoff. "We've donated that money to them, and we have the freedom to direct what to spend it on."

Movement monitors alert a parent or caregiver of a seizure and allow them to administer life-saving measures if necessary. Response dogs can also be used to summons help, rouse an unconscious patient, and have even been known to alert caregivers before the onset of a seizure.

Sully's Foundation just completed its 2022 fundraiser, but there are still ways to donate. Both Great Bend Pizza Huts will donate 20 percent of sales from 4-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 15 to Sully's Foundation. Be sure to mention the promotion. The foundation also takes donations via Venmo and PayPal - <a href="https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=YP7UYWY6S3C3J&amp;fbclid=IwAR2kmWWw5aOjBVrCKGTx7EUjzjGntHivG44G3oEFpd4KGXFpINs1hgZSp_4">CLICK HERE)</a>, with links to both on its Facebook page.

By now, the GBHS classmates have spread around the country. Other board members include Alex Peterson in Fargo, N.D.; Kyle Peterson and Noah Patterson in Kansas City, Mo.; and Jason Davis in Asheville, N.C. It makes reunions difficult, but Westhoff likes the idea of taking Blake's memory nationwide.

"My fiance and I are out here in the Pacific Northwest, we've got Shade and Kiley in the northeast," he said. "We're spread across the map, which makes it difficult to find times to meet, but it gives us an opportunity to spread our footprint going forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667922659222.jpeg" alt="GBHS grads Kiley and Shade Wondra raising awareness for epilepsy for Sully's Foundation." />
 <figcaption>GBHS grads Kiley and Shade Wondra raising awareness for epilepsy for Sully's Foundation.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNovember is Epilepsy Awareness Month. Blake Sullivan was just 21 years old when he died of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) on Oct. 18, 2018, just two weeks shy of November. Four years later, Sully's Foundation is still going strong to raise awareness and help those who suffer from epilepsy. Jack Westhoff graduated from Great Bend High School alongside Sullivan in 2015, and helped create the foundation in 2019."We got together after Blake's passing and decided this is a tragic event and we just didn't want to let it be in vain," he said. "Blake definitely had the spirit of helping people and spreading joy, and we wanted to find a way to do that, and help prevent people from feeling what we were feeling in that moment."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667922844463.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are approximately 1.16 SUDEP cases for every 1,000 people with epilepsy. The exact cause of SUDEP is unknown but may be attributed to breathing difficulties or cardiac arrest during a seizure. An estimated 3,000 people, mostly in their 20s or younger, die from SUDEP each year.After Blake's death in 2018, Westhoff teamed up with fellow classmates Shade Wondra and Kiley (Heine) Wondra, along with some of Blake's Lambda Chi fraternity brothers from Kansas State University, to start the foundation. Numbers are unavailable from this year's fundraiser that wrapped up over the weekend, but Sully's Foundation raised more than $27,000 in its first two years.Sully's Foundation has teamed up with the Denver-based Chelsea Hutchison Foundation. Hutchison was just 16 when she died from SUDEP in her sleep. Both foundations now use fundraisers to purchase movement monitors and seizure-response dogs for epilepsy patients."They've been around a lot longer than we have, so they've got their eye on how to source difference seizure monitors and who to talk to to get some support dogs," said Westhoff. "We've donated that money to them, and we have the freedom to direct what to spend it on."Movement monitors alert a parent or caregiver of a seizure and allow them to administer life-saving measures if necessary. Response dogs can also be used to summons help, rouse an unconscious patient, and have even been known to alert caregivers before the onset of a seizure.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667922872522.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sully's Foundation just completed its 2022 fundraiser, but there are still ways to donate. Both Great Bend Pizza Huts will donate 20 percent of sales from 4-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 15 to Sully's Foundation. Be sure to mention the promotion. The foundation also takes donations via Venmo and PayPal - <a href="https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=YP7UYWY6S3C3J&amp;fbclid=IwAR2kmWWw5aOjBVrCKGTx7EUjzjGntHivG44G3oEFpd4KGXFpINs1hgZSp_4">CLICK HERE)</a>, with links to both on its Facebook page.By now, the GBHS classmates have spread around the country. Other board members include Alex Peterson in Fargo, N.D.; Kyle Peterson and Noah Patterson in Kansas City, Mo.; and Jason Davis in Asheville, N.C. It makes reunions difficult, but Westhoff likes the idea of taking Blake's memory nationwide."My fiance and I are out here in the Pacific Northwest, we've got Shade and Kiley in the northeast," he said. "We're spread across the map, which makes it difficult to find times to meet, but it gives us an opportunity to spread our footprint going forward."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667922976165.jpeg" alt="Blake Sullivan" />
 <figcaption>Blake Sullivan</figcaption>
 </figure>

Sully's Foundation: GBHS pals continue to raise epilepsy awareness

Today A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a temperature falling to around 40 by 9 a.m. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 23 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 22. North wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Veterans Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 39. North northwest wind 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 16. North northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming light. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 45. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Breezy.

Sunday Night A slight chance of rain between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., then a chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Monday A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Monday Night A chance of rain and snow before 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 38.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 42.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a temperature falling to around 40 by 9 a.m. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 23 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 22. North wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Veterans Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 39. North northwest wind 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 16. North northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming light. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 45. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the morning.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Breezy.Sunday Night A slight chance of rain between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., then a chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.Monday A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.Monday Night A chance of rain and snow before 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 38.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 42.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Coffee and Ribbon Cutting

Doors open at 9 a.m. and the program starts at 9:30 a.m. – Join in-person or watch virtually on Facebook LIVE &amp; YouTube.

Paint. Party. Create. Dilly &amp; Doc Creative Studio is the place for B.Y.O.B. painting classes, Chalk Paint, Take &amp; Create KITS, and private events, including birthday parties, Girl’s Nights, Pop-up Markets, Furniture Flip classes, and more. Phyllis Brack (a.k.a. Dilly) is the artist, owner, and creator behind the studio. Her husband Brad Brack is “Doc” and prides himself on the ability to fix anything. The studio sprouted from their custom line of Chalk Paint and will celebrate 5 years in November. Join us for Coffee on Thursday, November 10th, and get a peek at Holiday Inventory, upcoming classes, and Santa's workshop, and hear about the Holiday POP-UP Market happening on Saturday, November 29. Let's Create!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592426026608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday, Nov. 10Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Coffee and Ribbon CuttingDoors open at 9 a.m. and the program starts at 9:30 a.m. – Join in-person or watch virtually on Facebook LIVE &amp; YouTube.Dilly &amp; Doc | 1119 Main St.Paint. Party. Create. Dilly &amp; Doc Creative Studio is the place for B.Y.O.B. painting classes, Chalk Paint, Take &amp; Create KITS, and private events, including birthday parties, Girl’s Nights, Pop-up Markets, Furniture Flip classes, and more. Phyllis Brack (a.k.a. Dilly) is the artist, owner, and creator behind the studio. Her husband Brad Brack is “Doc” and prides himself on the ability to fix anything. The studio sprouted from their custom line of Chalk Paint and will celebrate 5 years in November. Join us for Coffee on Thursday, November 10th, and get a peek at Holiday Inventory, upcoming classes, and Santa's workshop, and hear about the Holiday POP-UP Market happening on Saturday, November 29. Let's Create!

Great Bend Chamber coffee hour (11/10)

The&nbsp;Kansas Association of Counties, along with many Kansas Counties, are pleased to announce that county courthouses and other buildings, as well as offices, including KAC’s Topeka office, will be illuminated green&nbsp;beginning today, from&nbsp;November 7-13, 2022, as part of Operation Green Light, a new national collaborative initiative of KAC’s national partner, the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.

The new national collaborative is spearheaded by NACo and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, building upon the successful efforts of the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association in 2021.

“Since the tragedy of September 11, 2001, our nation’s voluntary military force members, and their families, have made immense sacrifices for our safety and security over a two-decade period,” said KAC Executive Director Bruce Chladny. “Similar to the sacrifices of previous generations of our armed forces, their service to our country also often results in significant stress to many of the veterans who served in times of war and conflict. We want to ensure that our veterans and their families know that their service mattered, that we are grateful for their sacrifices, and that it is now our turn to make sure they are served by their county government and local communities.”

In addition to lighting county buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends.

“By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported,” shared KAC Board President Kenny Baccus, Ottawa County Noxious Weed Director. “Here in my home county, Ottaway County, we are lighting our county courthouse and other county buildings green throughout the week-long event recognizing our veterans.”

Along with Ottawa County, numerous other Kansas County Commissions passed a proclamation in support of Operation Green Light to light their county buildings green. These counties are also encouraging local citizens and businesses to light their homes and buildings green.

While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (November 7-13), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents and business owners can share their participation on social media using the hashtag&nbsp;#OperationGreenLight.

“Operation Green Light is a simple way to express our collective appreciation for the public service of our veterans,” said NACo President Denise Winfrey. “We encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and to also reflect on how we, as a nation and at the county level, assist our military service personal back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country.”

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascounties.org/" target="_blank">www.kansascounties.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.naco.org/resources/operation-green-light-veterans-county-toolkit" target="_blank">naco.org/operationgreenlight</a>&nbsp;for more information and links to resources available to veterans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668004638248.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Kansas Association of Counties, along with many Kansas Counties, are pleased to announce that county courthouses and other buildings, as well as offices, including KAC’s Topeka office, will be illuminated green&nbsp;beginning today, from&nbsp;November 7-13, 2022, as part of Operation Green Light, a new national collaborative initiative of KAC’s national partner, the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.The new national collaborative is spearheaded by NACo and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, building upon the successful efforts of the New York State Association of Counties and the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association in 2021.“Since the tragedy of September 11, 2001, our nation’s voluntary military force members, and their families, have made immense sacrifices for our safety and security over a two-decade period,” said KAC Executive Director Bruce Chladny. “Similar to the sacrifices of previous generations of our armed forces, their service to our country also often results in significant stress to many of the veterans who served in times of war and conflict. We want to ensure that our veterans and their families know that their service mattered, that we are grateful for their sacrifices, and that it is now our turn to make sure they are served by their county government and local communities.”In addition to lighting county buildings, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their house to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends.“By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported,” shared KAC Board President Kenny Baccus, Ottawa County Noxious Weed Director. “Here in my home county, Ottaway County, we are lighting our county courthouse and other county buildings green throughout the week-long event recognizing our veterans.”Along with Ottawa County, numerous other Kansas County Commissions passed a proclamation in support of Operation Green Light to light their county buildings green. These counties are also encouraging local citizens and businesses to light their homes and buildings green.<ul>
 <li>Allen County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Atchison County:&nbsp;Lighting their courthouse clock tower green.</li><li>Barton County:&nbsp;Lighting their&nbsp;Golden Belt Veterans Memorial green.</li><li>Butler County: &nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Clay County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Cowley County:&nbsp;Lighting all entryways of county facilities green.</li><li>Dickinson County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Geary County:&nbsp;Turning the majority of county-owned buildings’ exterior lighting green.</li><li>Jefferson County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Leavenworth County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse and grounds green.</li><li>Miami County:&nbsp;Lighting their county administration building green.</li><li>McPherson County:&nbsp;Lighting each window in their county courthouse green.</li><li>Montgomery County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Neosho County:&nbsp;Lighting their courthouse green. Placing a banner outside their courthouse encouraging everyone to light their homes or businesses green.</li><li>Osage County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Pawnee County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Riley County:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1541" target="_blank">Green lights will be installed and displayed along Poyntz Avenue in Downtown Manhattan (county seat).</a></li><li>Sedgwick County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Shawnee County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li><li>Sumner County:&nbsp;Lighting their county courthouse green.</li>
 </ul>While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (November 7-13), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Residents and business owners can share their participation on social media using the hashtag&nbsp;#OperationGreenLight.“Operation Green Light is a simple way to express our collective appreciation for the public service of our veterans,” said NACo President Denise Winfrey. “We encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and to also reflect on how we, as a nation and at the county level, assist our military service personal back into civilian life upon completion of their service to our country.”Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascounties.org/" target="_blank">www.kansascounties.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.naco.org/resources/operation-green-light-veterans-county-toolkit" target="_blank">naco.org/operationgreenlight</a>&nbsp;for more information and links to resources available to veterans.

Operation Green Light supports local veterans in Barton Co.

A 6-year-old Great Bend boy wasn’t in control of his emotions and struggled with bursts of anger.

After working with Teresa Faber, children’s case manager at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, the youngster has demonstrated dramatic improvement, she said.

Much of this success is attributed to Mindfulness Yoga, a relatively new service for children and teens at The Center, 5815 Broadway.

“When this child met with me one recent morning, he immediately asked: ‘should we start or end with mindfulness today?’” Faber recalled. “This was coming from a kiddo that had been exhibiting angry outbursts for some time.

“Since we have been consistently using Mindfulness Yoga, he has made drastic mood improvements with just a fraction of the struggles at home. Mindfulness works and our young clients are the proof.”

Shanna Long, Community Based Services clinical coordinator for children, and Chris Gahagan, master’s level psychologist, are certified Mindfulness Yoga coaches at The Center. Both were trained by Little Flower Yoga, which is based in New York.

“Mindfulness means paying attention to your life in the here and now,” Long explained. “We use yoga techniques to explore what a child is feeling and noticing.

“While connecting with yourself, you also connect with your environment and other people,” she continued. “Regulating your breathing can be calming or energizing, while physical movements help with relaxation and focus.”

Long and Gahagan trained Faber and others at The Center; training is ongoing.

“We didn’t really know what to expect,” commented Long, who also is a licensed social worker. “There was some skepticism at first but the results have been pretty phenomenal. The children’s Case Management staff have been trained and are enjoying it. It is having a big impact.

“The staff enjoyed learning as a group by actually performing the yoga practices,” she added. “They noticed, in the moment, how it impacted them and want to share this with their young clients.”

Mindfulness Yoga, which entails physical and psychological exercises, is based on scientific evidence and research; it is not a religious practice in any way, Long and Gahagan emphasized.

Gahagan sees about 30 young clients weekly, with a current case load of approximately 60.

“Many times, I introduce Mindfulness Yoga using play techniques,” Gahagan said. “Games can help children with breathing and focus. Bubbles and balloons can be used to increase breath control and relaxation skills. And glitter and sensory jars help youngsters focus on activities and develop their attention spans.”

Some parents attend sessions with their children, while others choose not to. Either way, Gahagan is available to work with parents on exercises they can do at home.

“This helps us build on what we work on during sessions,” Gahagan said. “When parents are interested in learning Mindfulness Yoga techniques, I offer sessions with parents and child together. When needed, I give parents scripts they can follow at home.”

Children are referred by schools and primary-care providers. The Center’s intake clinicians refer to appropriate services based on particular circumstances.

There are 21 case managers in The Center’s Community Based Services Department, serving ages 3-21. The support staff and aides also have become involved in Mindfulness Yoga.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668005091100.jpeg" alt="Chris Gahagan and Shanna Long, in the background, teach a breathing exercise in Mindfulness Yoga to Community Based Services colleagues at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation. From left to right are Kerrie Buess, Billie Downum, Heather Ruble, Kristian Pearson and Sara Waters." />
 <figcaption>Chris Gahagan and Shanna Long, in the background, teach a breathing exercise in Mindfulness Yoga to Community Based Services colleagues at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation. From left to right are Kerrie Buess, Billie Downum, Heather Ruble, Kristian Pearson and Sara Waters.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSA 6-year-old Great Bend boy wasn’t in control of his emotions and struggled with bursts of anger.After working with Teresa Faber, children’s case manager at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, the youngster has demonstrated dramatic improvement, she said.Much of this success is attributed to Mindfulness Yoga, a relatively new service for children and teens at The Center, 5815 Broadway.“When this child met with me one recent morning, he immediately asked: ‘should we start or end with mindfulness today?’” Faber recalled. “This was coming from a kiddo that had been exhibiting angry outbursts for some time.“Since we have been consistently using Mindfulness Yoga, he has made drastic mood improvements with just a fraction of the struggles at home. Mindfulness works and our young clients are the proof.”Shanna Long, Community Based Services clinical coordinator for children, and Chris Gahagan, master’s level psychologist, are certified Mindfulness Yoga coaches at The Center. Both were trained by Little Flower Yoga, which is based in New York.“Mindfulness means paying attention to your life in the here and now,” Long explained. “We use yoga techniques to explore what a child is feeling and noticing.“While connecting with yourself, you also connect with your environment and other people,” she continued. “Regulating your breathing can be calming or energizing, while physical movements help with relaxation and focus.”Long and Gahagan trained Faber and others at The Center; training is ongoing.“We didn’t really know what to expect,” commented Long, who also is a licensed social worker. “There was some skepticism at first but the results have been pretty phenomenal. The children’s Case Management staff have been trained and are enjoying it. It is having a big impact.“The staff enjoyed learning as a group by actually performing the yoga practices,” she added. “They noticed, in the moment, how it impacted them and want to share this with their young clients.”Mindfulness Yoga, which entails physical and psychological exercises, is based on scientific evidence and research; it is not a religious practice in any way, Long and Gahagan emphasized.Gahagan sees about 30 young clients weekly, with a current case load of approximately 60.“Many times, I introduce Mindfulness Yoga using play techniques,” Gahagan said. “Games can help children with breathing and focus. Bubbles and balloons can be used to increase breath control and relaxation skills. And glitter and sensory jars help youngsters focus on activities and develop their attention spans.”Some parents attend sessions with their children, while others choose not to. Either way, Gahagan is available to work with parents on exercises they can do at home.“This helps us build on what we work on during sessions,” Gahagan said. “When parents are interested in learning Mindfulness Yoga techniques, I offer sessions with parents and child together. When needed, I give parents scripts they can follow at home.”Children are referred by schools and primary-care providers. The Center’s intake clinicians refer to appropriate services based on particular circumstances.There are 21 case managers in The Center’s Community Based Services Department, serving ages 3-21. The support staff and aides also have become involved in Mindfulness Yoga.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

Great Bend business offers Mindfulness Yoga to staff, young clients

On Nov. 3, the Great Bend Police&nbsp;Department&nbsp;responded&nbsp;to&nbsp;2324 McKinley Street in&nbsp;referece&nbsp;to suspicious persons.&nbsp; The reporting party&nbsp;stated that&nbsp;a male, wearing a black ski mask&nbsp;had come onto the property, which is&nbsp;an&nbsp;in-home daycare, and was observed&nbsp;between a parked vehicle and a second vehicle, which was running.&nbsp; The reporting party&nbsp;stated that upon confronting the masked male, he then fled&nbsp;to a&nbsp;waiting&nbsp;silver, four door Nissan Altima which was&nbsp;occupied by&nbsp;other individuals who were&nbsp;also wearing black ski masks.

On Nov. 4c detectives with the&nbsp;Great Bend Police Department&nbsp;were able to&nbsp;locate&nbsp;the&nbsp;silver, four door Nissan Altima&nbsp;and&nbsp;identify the persons&nbsp;who had been&nbsp;inside the vehicle.

Through this investigation, detectives have learned this&nbsp;is not&nbsp;the&nbsp;only encounter with this vehicle and subjects inside wearing black ski masks&nbsp;within&nbsp;Great Bend.

These investigations are&nbsp;still ongoing&nbsp;and are asking anyone with&nbsp;information&nbsp;reference to this case&nbsp;or other&nbsp;incidents are&nbsp;urged to contact the Great Bend Police&nbsp;Department at 620-793-4120 or Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300.

On Nov. 3, the Great Bend Police&nbsp;Department&nbsp;responded&nbsp;to&nbsp;2324 McKinley Street in&nbsp;referece&nbsp;to suspicious persons.&nbsp; The reporting party&nbsp;stated that&nbsp;a male, wearing a black ski mask&nbsp;had come onto the property, which is&nbsp;an&nbsp;in-home daycare, and was observed&nbsp;between a parked vehicle and a second vehicle, which was running.&nbsp; The reporting party&nbsp;stated that upon confronting the masked male, he then fled&nbsp;to a&nbsp;waiting&nbsp;silver, four door Nissan Altima which was&nbsp;occupied by&nbsp;other individuals who were&nbsp;also wearing black ski masks.On Nov. 4c detectives with the&nbsp;Great Bend Police Department&nbsp;were able to&nbsp;locate&nbsp;the&nbsp;silver, four door Nissan Altima&nbsp;and&nbsp;identify the persons&nbsp;who had been&nbsp;inside the vehicle.Through this investigation, detectives have learned this&nbsp;is not&nbsp;the&nbsp;only encounter with this vehicle and subjects inside wearing black ski masks&nbsp;within&nbsp;Great Bend.These investigations are&nbsp;still ongoing&nbsp;and are asking anyone with&nbsp;information&nbsp;reference to this case&nbsp;or other&nbsp;incidents are&nbsp;urged to contact the Great Bend Police&nbsp;Department at 620-793-4120 or Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300.

Subjects wearing ski masks reported around Great Bend daycare

Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success in school. Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important.

Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.

Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware, actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! Talk to them about what they are doing. If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.

While libraries are great and offer many programs to get children involved with books and reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building a library at home as well. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents. Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child every month from birth to age five. They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are age appropriate also. In Ellis and Barton County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. Be sure and check it out!

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/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success in school. Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important.Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware, actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! Talk to them about what they are doing. If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.While libraries are great and offer many programs to get children involved with books and reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building a library at home as well. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents. Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child every month from birth to age five. They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are age appropriate also. In Ellis and Barton County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. Be sure and check it out!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/2022/11/1668005010165.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KOERNER: National Family Literacy Month

The Barton County Historical Society would like to show its appreciation for veterans on Friday, Nov. 11. 

For Veterans Day, the museum, located at 85 US 281 Highway on the southern edge of Great Bend, will be offering free admission to veterans during business hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659971080044.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Historical Society would like to show its appreciation for veterans on Friday, Nov. 11. For Veterans Day, the museum, located at 85 US 281 Highway on the southern edge of Great Bend, will be offering free admission to veterans during business hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Barton Co. Historical Society offering free admission to veterans Friday

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, just before 11 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies
stopped a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado pickup in the 3900 block of Railroad Avenue,
south of Great Bend. 

The vehicle was stopped for a traffic infraction. Deputies
became suspicious of the occupants and received consent to search the vehicle.


During the consensual search, suspected cocaine was found. 

Two subjects were
arrested at the scene. Miguel Hernandez-Gonzales, age 31 of Garden City and Jordi Armendariz, age 24 of El Paso, Texas. Both were transported to the
Barton County Jail without incident and booked on requested charges of
possession of cocaine. 

Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668016444339.jpeg" alt="Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez" />
 <figcaption>Miguel Hernandez-Gonzalez</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Nov. 8, just before 11 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies
stopped a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado pickup in the 3900 block of Railroad Avenue,
south of Great Bend. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic infraction. Deputies
became suspicious of the occupants and received consent to search the vehicle.
During the consensual search, suspected cocaine was found. Two subjects were
arrested at the scene. Miguel Hernandez-Gonzales, age 31 of Garden City and Jordi Armendariz, age 24 of El Paso, Texas. Both were transported to the
Barton County Jail without incident and booked on requested charges of
possession of cocaine. Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

Two arrested on Railroad Ave. in Great Bend for drug charges

With a pursuit to develop more housing, the Great Bend City Council
received a lesson in Rural Housing Incentive Districts (RHID) at Monday’s work
session. 

Mollea Wainscott with the Dodge City Ford County Development
Corporation gave the council information on how the RHID could work for the Amber
Meadows subdivision in Great Bend, just north of Veterans Memorial Park.

The Dodge City area has been using the RHID since 2009, and Wainscott estimated thousands of homes have been developed because of the incentive program. 
The RHID captures the incremental increase in a housing development to pay off
the infrastructure costs for 25 years, such as streets, curbs, water and sewer.
Then that cost is not turned over to the homeowner. All taxing entities forgo
the taxes on the new homes for up to 25 years or until the public
infrastructure is paid off. Wainscott said this provides a financing tool for
cities and developers to address housing shortages. "Our need is all over the board for multi-family, single-family, low-income to high income," said Wainscott. "We allow our developers to build whatever they want to build. We don't have any regulations on it has fall in between a certain price point."

Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said a housing study showed Great Bend was need of housing between $180,000 and $330,000. 
Justin Joiner, with Joiner Construction, mentioned their business is interested
in creating housing in the Amber Meadows subdivision.

The developer usually petitions the city for general obligation bonds. The city would then put the infrastructure in for the developer.

If approved, the City of Great Bend would put the infrastructure in and Joiner Construction would have to pay the city between 25-35% of the infrastructure costs up front. Once Joiner builds 25-35% of the homes, the city gives the upfront costs back to the developer.

There are approximately
60 vacant lots in Amber Meadows owned by the city, and councilmember Alan
Moeder felt this was a good plan to create housing. "Property tax will still be paid, but the property tax will go back to pay the bond," said Moeder. "The plus out of this is we get housing and we have jobs for people to build the housing. We're short of housing, so this to me is a no-brainer."&nbsp; Great Bend will look at the next steps to getting an RHID in place at Amber
Meadows.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648586181923.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWith a pursuit to develop more housing, the Great Bend City Council
received a lesson in Rural Housing Incentive Districts (RHID) at Monday’s work
session. Mollea Wainscott with the Dodge City Ford County Development
Corporation gave the council information on how the RHID could work for the Amber
Meadows subdivision in Great Bend, just north of Veterans Memorial Park.The Dodge City area has been using the RHID since 2009, and Wainscott estimated thousands of homes have been developed because of the incentive program. 
The RHID captures the incremental increase in a housing development to pay off
the infrastructure costs for 25 years, such as streets, curbs, water and sewer.
Then that cost is not turned over to the homeowner. All taxing entities forgo
the taxes on the new homes for up to 25 years or until the public
infrastructure is paid off. Wainscott said this provides a financing tool for
cities and developers to address housing shortages. "Our need is all over the board for multi-family, single-family, low-income to high income," said Wainscott. "We allow our developers to build whatever they want to build. We don't have any regulations on it has fall in between a certain price point."Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said a housing study showed Great Bend was need of housing between $180,000 and $330,000. 
Justin Joiner, with Joiner Construction, mentioned their business is interested
in creating housing in the Amber Meadows subdivision.The developer usually petitions the city for general obligation bonds. The city would then put the infrastructure in for the developer.If approved, the City of Great Bend would put the infrastructure in and Joiner Construction would have to pay the city between 25-35% of the infrastructure costs up front. Once Joiner builds 25-35% of the homes, the city gives the upfront costs back to the developer.There are approximately
60 vacant lots in Amber Meadows owned by the city, and councilmember Alan
Moeder felt this was a good plan to create housing. "Property tax will still be paid, but the property tax will go back to pay the bond," said Moeder. "The plus out of this is we get housing and we have jobs for people to build the housing. We're short of housing, so this to me is a no-brainer."&nbsp; Great Bend will look at the next steps to getting an RHID in place at Amber
Meadows.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend looks at incentives to build housing at Amber Meadows

An incident that occurred in September was again a topic for public comments at Monday's USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education meeting. Wayne Stout reported to the board in October that his granddaughter was the victim of a breach of privacy inside the Hoisington Middle School locker room. Monday he again expressed concerns about the enforcement of policy in the district.

"I have to brag about one of your coaches," Stout said. "They stepped up and made it clear: you bring a cell into our locker room, you're dismissed from activities. You're done, pack 'em up. That's enforcement. Those kids know they will not take a cell phone in a locker room."

According to Stout, photos were taken of the student in the locker room on Sept. 13, and posted online on Sept. 16.  Stout told the board the student who took the photo received two days of in-school suspension, was not suspended from activities, and continued to play volleyball.

Stout expressed further concern about the matter not being reported to the police. Hoisington Middle School Principal Bob Brungardt said the matter had been reported to the police.

"Why is there a report of a crime to the Hoisington Police Department and the person the crime was committed against, my granddaughter, how come there was no investigation?" Stout asked. "How come we weren't notified? Did they do the investigation?"

Superintendent Patrick Crowdis answered that the school district could only report the crime. Board President Becky Mooney thanked Stout for his comments, and said the district's top priority is always the safety of students.

"And please know, that of the board, we are taking this seriously, and we are working on the steps we hope will continue to be a better environment for our students," she said. "They're our first priority, and their safety and security is a top priority, so we will continue to do our due diligence."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665075411194.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAn incident that occurred in September was again a topic for public comments at Monday's USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education meeting. Wayne Stout reported to the board in October that his granddaughter was the victim of a breach of privacy inside the Hoisington Middle School locker room. Monday he again expressed concerns about the enforcement of policy in the district."I have to brag about one of your coaches," Stout said. "They stepped up and made it clear: you bring a cell into our locker room, you're dismissed from activities. You're done, pack 'em up. That's enforcement. Those kids know they will not take a cell phone in a locker room."According to Stout, photos were taken of the student in the locker room on Sept. 13, and posted online on Sept. 16. Stout told the board the student who took the photo received two days of in-school suspension, was not suspended from activities, and continued to play volleyball.Stout expressed further concern about the matter not being reported to the police. Hoisington Middle School Principal Bob Brungardt said the matter had been reported to the police."Why is there a report of a crime to the Hoisington Police Department and the person the crime was committed against, my granddaughter, how come there was no investigation?" Stout asked. "How come we weren't notified? Did they do the investigation?"Superintendent Patrick Crowdis answered that the school district could only report the crime. Board President Becky Mooney thanked Stout for his comments, and said the district's top priority is always the safety of students."And please know, that of the board, we are taking this seriously, and we are working on the steps we hope will continue to be a better environment for our students," she said. "They're our first priority, and their safety and security is a top priority, so we will continue to do our due diligence."

Grandfather voices continued concern to Hoisington school board

With another general election just in the books, action at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting remained light. The body did, however, approve another round of longevity payments to county employees with at least five years of service. County Director of Operations Matt Patzner said 103 employees are eligible for this year's payment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619186644580.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWith another general election just in the books, action at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting remained light. The body did, however, approve another round of longevity payments to county employees with at least five years of service. County Director of Operations Matt Patzner said 103 employees are eligible for this year's payment."Longevity is awarded to employees who establish a long-term commitment to the county," he told the commission. "Generally, after reaching five years of continuous service, an employee receives a lump-sum payment equal to $3 for each month of service, half that for part-time employees."Commissioner Jennifer Schartz suggested the commission approve using paper checks for the payment, and Patzner agreed employees do enjoy receiving an extra check over direct deposit. "I think sometimes when you get it put into your paycheck, and it goes immediately into your account, you don't maybe notice and appreciate it enough," Schartz said. "I'm encouraging everyone to support doing a paper check."Based on the formula, eligible employees will receive a minimum of $180, though longtime employees will see significantly more. Patzner said the payment is budgeted each year, with approximately $50,300 coming from the general fund, $8,800 coming from the employee benefit fund, and $6,100 coming from non-levied funds. Checks will go out next Thursday."So the employees of Barton County know, we are on their side," said Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson. "We're looking for people that want to stick around for a long time. So when we have people doing that, we are more than happy to reward that."

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