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.

Shafer Art Gallery 245 NE 30 Rd. – Barton Community College

Folk-artist Bob Mix of Great Bend has been creating one-of-a-kind pieces of three- dimensional art out of scrap metal since 1982. To say they are unique would be an understatement. His art ranges from fantasy art to an accurate portrayal of massive prehistoric mammals For the Ribbon Cutting the Shafer Gallery is proudly installing a dramatic Bob Mix sculpture of a Sabre Tooth Cat in the gallery plaza. The piece will be illuminated by ambient lighting to create an enhance experience for visitors to the Gallery and Barton CC Fine Arts building events. The Gallery will provide refreshments and an opportunity to hear directly from a legendary Barton County Barton artist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592426026608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday, Nov. 3Great 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.Shafer Art Gallery 245 NE 30 Rd. – Barton Community CollegeFolk-artist Bob Mix of Great Bend has been creating one-of-a-kind pieces of three- dimensional art out of scrap metal since 1982. To say they are unique would be an understatement. His art ranges from fantasy art to an accurate portrayal of massive prehistoric mammals For the Ribbon Cutting the Shafer Gallery is proudly installing a dramatic Bob Mix sculpture of a Sabre Tooth Cat in the gallery plaza. The piece will be illuminated by ambient lighting to create an enhance experience for visitors to the Gallery and Barton CC Fine Arts building events. The Gallery will provide refreshments and an opportunity to hear directly from a legendary Barton County Barton artist.

Great Bend Chamber coffee hour & ribbon cutting (11/3)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Last spring, more than $2,300 was handed out to area high school students as reward money for the Barton County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC). State-wide, more than 1,000 students from 61 schools competed for more than $75,000 in prizes. Great Bend Economic Development Communications Director Lee Ann June said the third annual challenge will again give area students the opportunity to promote a business idea.

"You're creating a business plan for an idea or a product that fills in a gap, that's something new and exciting you can get going," she said. "Hopefully, with the help of the funds you would win, (they) can take you to that next level."

Ellinwood's Kiley Stevenson has won first place locally in each of the first two years of Barton County competition. Last year, she won $1,000 for her business, Kiley's Creations. The challenge requires students to prepare a summary, a four-minute presentation, and a tradeshow presentation for their business idea. They are judged by local entrepreneurs, teachers, and other community members. Winning entries at the local level advance to a state-wide competition.

The third annual YEC will take place at the Great Bend Event Center on March 8. A total of $2,500 will be awarded to the top-four competitors. The audience will be allowed to vote for two competitors, who will receive $250.

"They have access to business mentors that can help them formulate the business plan, poke through any issues or potential problems, or things that might come up during judging," June said. "They have the potential to win some cash, and hopefully get to the next phase in their business plan."

Early-bird registration for participants begins on Jan. 20, 2023, and a final deadline for registration is Feb. 22. Deadline for judges to register is Feb. 3. The competition is free and does not require an application, only registration. For more information on the upcoming challenge, <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/yec?fbclid=IwAR2Zb4nNS75Z9MG9OSK2-FpOQwaHwdfAZDubW0ntGh0hcWRjY8J5a-PtG6c">CLICK HERE.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646243538472.jpeg" alt="Ellinwood's Kiley Stevenson won $1,000 during last year's Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge." />
 <figcaption>Ellinwood's Kiley Stevenson won $1,000 during last year's Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast spring, more than $2,300 was handed out to area high school students as reward money for the Barton County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC). State-wide, more than 1,000 students from 61 schools competed for more than $75,000 in prizes. Great Bend Economic Development Communications Director Lee Ann June said the third annual challenge will again give area students the opportunity to promote a business idea."You're creating a business plan for an idea or a product that fills in a gap, that's something new and exciting you can get going," she said. "Hopefully, with the help of the funds you would win, (they) can take you to that next level."Ellinwood's Kiley Stevenson has won first place locally in each of the first two years of Barton County competition. Last year, she won $1,000 for her business, Kiley's Creations. The challenge requires students to prepare a summary, a four-minute presentation, and a tradeshow presentation for their business idea. They are judged by local entrepreneurs, teachers, and other community members. Winning entries at the local level advance to a state-wide competition.The third annual YEC will take place at the Great Bend Event Center on March 8. A total of $2,500 will be awarded to the top-four competitors. The audience will be allowed to vote for two competitors, who will receive $250."They have access to business mentors that can help them formulate the business plan, poke through any issues or potential problems, or things that might come up during judging," June said. "They have the potential to win some cash, and hopefully get to the next phase in their business plan."Early-bird registration for participants begins on Jan. 20, 2023, and a final deadline for registration is Feb. 22. Deadline for judges to register is Feb. 3. The competition is free and does not require an application, only registration. For more information on the upcoming challenge, <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/yec?fbclid=IwAR2Zb4nNS75Z9MG9OSK2-FpOQwaHwdfAZDubW0ntGh0hcWRjY8J5a-PtG6c">CLICK HERE.</a>

Great Bend Eco Devo inviting young entrepreneurs to challenge

Bring your “tot” out to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center for the Turtle Tot Club, a nature-based program developed for preschool-age children, ages 3 to 5. In celebration of Thanksgiving, children will investigate turkeys with “Turkey Tales”, Nov. 18, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. We’ll read a turkey adventure book, deconstruct a turkey, make a turtle craft, play pin the beard on the turkey and conduct a couple of simple experiments. If weather cooperates, we’ll go outside and look for turkey food.

The one-hour programs, offered at no charge, introduce young children to the natural world around them with sensory experiences, while reinforcing colors, shapes, math and fine motor skills. When possible, sessions include outdoor time.

There is a minimum enrollment of 6 and a maximum of 12 children. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver and pre-registration is required by Nov. 14. To register or for more information, call 620-566-1456 or 1-877-243-9268.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667318379246.jpeg" alt="Preschoolers enrolled in the Kansas Wetlands Education Center’s Turtle Tot program, Nov. 18, will investigate wild turkeys with activities, games, and a craft. Pre-registration is required by Nov. 14." />
 <figcaption>Preschoolers enrolled in the Kansas Wetlands Education Center’s Turtle Tot program, Nov. 18, will investigate wild turkeys with activities, games, and a craft. Pre-registration is required by Nov. 14.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bring your “tot” out to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center for the Turtle Tot Club, a nature-based program developed for preschool-age children, ages 3 to 5. In celebration of Thanksgiving, children will investigate turkeys with “Turkey Tales”, Nov. 18, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. We’ll read a turkey adventure book, deconstruct a turkey, make a turtle craft, play pin the beard on the turkey and conduct a couple of simple experiments. If weather cooperates, we’ll go outside and look for turkey food.The one-hour programs, offered at no charge, introduce young children to the natural world around them with sensory experiences, while reinforcing colors, shapes, math and fine motor skills. When possible, sessions include outdoor time.There is a minimum enrollment of 6 and a maximum of 12 children. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver and pre-registration is required by Nov. 14. To register or for more information, call 620-566-1456 or 1-877-243-9268.

Kansas Wetlands Ed Center offers preschool programming

Anyone who frequently smokes today’s potent marijuana, especially with a family history of psychiatric disorders, should consider the results of multiple scientific studies, said two professionals at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway in Great Bend.

Scot Yarnell, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and Jill Hulse, family nurse practitioner, wanted to share information about studies that indicate a link between marijuana and psychotic disorders.

“Since marijuana use is definitely present here in The Center’s four-county service area we wanted to let the community know what we have learned,” Yarnell said. “Studies show that marijuana can trigger a number of conditions, including schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder.

“The primary risk factor is the frequency of use. Other factors are the duration of use and family history.”

In some instances, marijuana users believe they are treating issues such as sleep problems or anxiety.

“But they are just making it worse,” Yarnell said. “They are self-medicating and causing new symptoms of a variety of problems. Negative effects include decreased memory, concentration and brain function.”

Synthetics, which are called cannabinoids, are the most potent, Yarnell cautioned. “Some forms of cannabinoids can be purchased legally at a store. But they can still show up in a urine test, which means failing a drug screen at work.”

Many physical problems also have been linked to marijuana use. These include lung issues, including cancer and pneumonia; gastro-intestinal problems; cardiovascular conditions; and stroke.

“We also want to remind people that marijuana is being laced with fentanyl,” Yarnell emphasized. “We have seen this in Barton and surrounding counties. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.

“Marijuana-related visits to emergency rooms represent 18 percent of all psychoactive drug visits,” he added.

Services/studies The Center offers substance-use disorder counseling in conjunction with Mirror Inc. It also provides urine drug screens and treatment for underlying mental-health disorders.

“We can treat these disorders while offering counseling, medication management, and addiction therapy,” Hulse said. “We also can assist those who have withdrawal symptoms.”

Parents concerned about a teenager’s possible marijuana use may want to watch for symptoms. These include red eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite, decrease in alertness, social withdrawal, slow reaction time, impaired attention, short-term memory loss, and impaired judgment and coordination.

“Risks can be triggered by even the first use of marijuana and have lifelong effects,” Hulse commented. “These effects can be physical, mental and social. A person addicted to cannabis may not recognize the negative effects until they are free of the drug.

“Marijuana also can be a gateway drug to other substances,” she added. “For example, people with alcohol-use disorder are more than six times as likely to use marijuana. And people with cannabis-use disorder are more likely to use cocaine and misuse prescription stimulants.”

Hulse and Yarnell provided a few more study results: · There is substantial evidence that chronic marijuana use, especially during adolescence, is associated with later development of schizophrenia.

· By eliminating marijuana use, the rates of schizophrenia could be cut by 10 percent.

· In addition to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, marijuana use has been associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and personality disorders.

· Up to 46 percent of people with cannabis-induced hallucinations will develop schizophrenia.

· For every dollar gained in tax revenue, Coloradoans have spent about $4.50 to mitigate the effects of legalization such as higher healthcare costs and problems related to high school dropouts.

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/2021/9/1630505042606.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone who frequently smokes today’s potent marijuana, especially with a family history of psychiatric disorders, should consider the results of multiple scientific studies, said two professionals at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway in Great Bend.Scot Yarnell, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and Jill Hulse, family nurse practitioner, wanted to share information about studies that indicate a link between marijuana and psychotic disorders.“Since marijuana use is definitely present here in The Center’s four-county service area we wanted to let the community know what we have learned,” Yarnell said. “Studies show that marijuana can trigger a number of conditions, including schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder.“The primary risk factor is the frequency of use. Other factors are the duration of use and family history.”In some instances, marijuana users believe they are treating issues such as sleep problems or anxiety.“But they are just making it worse,” Yarnell said. “They are self-medicating and causing new symptoms of a variety of problems. Negative effects include decreased memory, concentration and brain function.”Synthetics, which are called cannabinoids, are the most potent, Yarnell cautioned. “Some forms of cannabinoids can be purchased legally at a store. But they can still show up in a urine test, which means failing a drug screen at work.”Many physical problems also have been linked to marijuana use. These include lung issues, including cancer and pneumonia; gastro-intestinal problems; cardiovascular conditions; and stroke.“We also want to remind people that marijuana is being laced with fentanyl,” Yarnell emphasized. “We have seen this in Barton and surrounding counties. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.“Marijuana-related visits to emergency rooms represent 18 percent of all psychoactive drug visits,” he added.Services/studies The Center offers substance-use disorder counseling in conjunction with Mirror Inc. It also provides urine drug screens and treatment for underlying mental-health disorders.“We can treat these disorders while offering counseling, medication management, and addiction therapy,” Hulse said. “We also can assist those who have withdrawal symptoms.”Parents concerned about a teenager’s possible marijuana use may want to watch for symptoms. These include red eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite, decrease in alertness, social withdrawal, slow reaction time, impaired attention, short-term memory loss, and impaired judgment and coordination.“Risks can be triggered by even the first use of marijuana and have lifelong effects,” Hulse commented. “These effects can be physical, mental and social. A person addicted to cannabis may not recognize the negative effects until they are free of the drug.“Marijuana also can be a gateway drug to other substances,” she added. “For example, people with alcohol-use disorder are more than six times as likely to use marijuana. And people with cannabis-use disorder are more likely to use cocaine and misuse prescription stimulants.”Hulse and Yarnell provided a few more study results: · There is substantial evidence that chronic marijuana use, especially during adolescence, is associated with later development of schizophrenia.· By eliminating marijuana use, the rates of schizophrenia could be cut by 10 percent.· In addition to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, marijuana use has been associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and personality disorders.· Up to 46 percent of people with cannabis-induced hallucinations will develop schizophrenia.· For every dollar gained in tax revenue, Coloradoans have spent about $4.50 to mitigate the effects of legalization such as higher healthcare costs and problems related to high school dropouts.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.

Center for Counseling staff explains marijuana's link to psychotic disorders

News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 1 John P. Tretbar

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson ended the month at $76.75 per barrel, down $3 for the week, but a monthly gain of $7 a barrel. The average price for the month of October is a fraction of a cent under $77 per barrel, or nearly six dollars more than the average in October of 2021. The benchmark futures contract in New York settled Monday at $86.53 per barrel. That's down more than a dollar on the day, but a gain of nearly 9% for the month. In trading Tuesday prices were up two dollars, with WTI just under $89 and London Brent fetching about $95 a barrel. Kansas crude production has declined in each of the last eight years, but the latest numbers from the Kansas Geological Survey show output on the rise through June of this year, topping 14 million barrels. That's more than a thousand barrels per day better than average output for all of last year. Production in Barton County reached 728,000 total barrels. Ellis County was over 1.1 million. Russell County operators pumped 662,000 barrels. Stafford County chipped in 467,000. With rising prices come rising oilfield activity in Kansas. Operators in Kansas have spudded 1,292 wells so far this year, up more than 400 wells over last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 492 wells in various stages of drilling and completion, up about 32% year over year. The Kansas Rig Count reached 28 in the eastern half of the state, up one, and 33 active rigs west of Wichita, also up one. Baker Hughes reported 768 active drilling rigs across the US last week. The count in Texas was down three, North Dakota and Louisiana were each down two. Kansas regulators last week approved ten new drilling locations statewide, all of them in Western Kansas, including one new drilling permit in Ellis County. That's 1,343 new permits so far this year, compared to 927 a year ago at this time. Operators completed 38 new wells across Kansas. Of the six wells completed in our area, four were dry holes. The weekly tally from Independent Oil&amp; Gas Service shows 1,331 completed wells so far this year, compared to 720 through the end of October last year. The government reported U.S. crude-oil inventories of 439.89 million barrels as of October 21st, a spike of more than two and a half million barrels.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says domestic stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude production is up 23-thousand barrels per day to top 12 million barrels per day for the second week in a row. Imports were up 300-thousand barrels to 6.2 million barrels per day. The government said U.S. diesel inventories rose slightly last week but remain about 20% below the five-year average for this time of year. Diesel deliveries remain slightly lower than at this time last year. Total gasoline inventories dropped 1.5 million barrels and are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. The auto club AAA says weak gasoline demand, the completion of seasonal west-coast refinery maintenance, and waffling global oil prices combined to drive down pump prices. Prices for regular gasoline are three cents lower than a month ago, but diesel prices remain 50 cents a gallon higher. The government said diesel inventories rose last week but remain about 20% below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel deliveries remain slightly lower than at this time last year. In Kansas, regular gasoline prices averaged $3.37 a gallon, down six cents from a week ago. But diesel prices are up eight cents week over week to $5.06 a gallon. A young U.S. natural gas mogul may be taking home nearly $1 billion after a deal with oil giant BP. The oil supermajor continues its aggressive expansion into lower-carbon fuels and has agreed to buy gas producer Archea Energy for about $4.1 BILLION including debt. The Houston-based firm captures waste-gas emissions from landfills and farms. The company's CEO Daniel Rice stands to receive about $975 million in cash from the sale his stock. According to a statement, Archea will become a key part of BP’s bioenergy business and accelerate its growth. BP has promised to achieve net-zero emissions by the year 2050, and has made big bets on offshore wind and electric cars. Billionaire wildcat producer Harold Hamm raised his offer for the company stock his family doesn’t already own. He's offering $4.3 billion for the outstanding shares in Continental Resources, hoping to buck the disciplined-spending mantra adopted by rival shale drillers. The largest minority investor, Smead Capital Management, disapproves of the deal, saying Hamm should be paying a lot more. Hamm tells Bloomberg going private will free the shale giant from the wishes of public investors. Oklahoma-City-based Chesapeake Energy is cutting about three percent of its workforce, as it prepares to sell oil production in South Texas and once again re-focus on its core natural-gas operations. Reuters reports the company let go about 40 workers out of a total workforce of 1,200 people earlier this month. Chesapeake is selling off assets acquired three years ago, when the company sought to increase oil production with the $4 billion purchase of Wildhorse Resource Development. Top oil exporter Saudi Aramco may cut prices to Asia in December as weaker-than-expected fuel consumption in China put a lid on regional demand. Reuters reports that could amount to discounts of 30 to 40 cents a barrel. OPEC has increased its global oil demand forecast in both the long and medium term, crediting a more robust recovery than previously expected and a global shift toward prioritizing energy security over a transition to green energy. Europe will increase its reliance on oil imports from the United States after the European Union's embargo on Russian seaborne crude imports enters into force in early December. That's the word from the CEO of the Italian energy group Eni in an interview with Bloomberg Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 1 John P. TretbarKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson ended the month at $76.75 per barrel, down $3 for the week, but a monthly gain of $7 a barrel. The average price for the month of October is a fraction of a cent under $77 per barrel, or nearly six dollars more than the average in October of 2021. The benchmark futures contract in New York settled Monday at $86.53 per barrel. That's down more than a dollar on the day, but a gain of nearly 9% for the month. In trading Tuesday prices were up two dollars, with WTI just under $89 and London Brent fetching about $95 a barrel. Kansas crude production has declined in each of the last eight years, but the latest numbers from the Kansas Geological Survey show output on the rise through June of this year, topping 14 million barrels. That's more than a thousand barrels per day better than average output for all of last year. Production in Barton County reached 728,000 total barrels. Ellis County was over 1.1 million. Russell County operators pumped 662,000 barrels. Stafford County chipped in 467,000. With rising prices come rising oilfield activity in Kansas. Operators in Kansas have spudded 1,292 wells so far this year, up more than 400 wells over last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 492 wells in various stages of drilling and completion, up about 32% year over year. The Kansas Rig Count reached 28 in the eastern half of the state, up one, and 33 active rigs west of Wichita, also up one. Baker Hughes reported 768 active drilling rigs across the US last week. The count in Texas was down three, North Dakota and Louisiana were each down two. Kansas regulators last week approved ten new drilling locations statewide, all of them in Western Kansas, including one new drilling permit in Ellis County. That's 1,343 new permits so far this year, compared to 927 a year ago at this time. Operators completed 38 new wells across Kansas. Of the six wells completed in our area, four were dry holes. The weekly tally from Independent Oil&amp; Gas Service shows 1,331 completed wells so far this year, compared to 720 through the end of October last year. The government reported U.S. crude-oil inventories of 439.89 million barrels as of October 21st, a spike of more than two and a half million barrels.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says domestic stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said U.S. crude production is up 23-thousand barrels per day to top 12 million barrels per day for the second week in a row. Imports were up 300-thousand barrels to 6.2 million barrels per day. The government said U.S. diesel inventories rose slightly last week but remain about 20% below the five-year average for this time of year. Diesel deliveries remain slightly lower than at this time last year. Total gasoline inventories dropped 1.5 million barrels and are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. The auto club AAA says weak gasoline demand, the completion of seasonal west-coast refinery maintenance, and waffling global oil prices combined to drive down pump prices. Prices for regular gasoline are three cents lower than a month ago, but diesel prices remain 50 cents a gallon higher. The government said diesel inventories rose last week but remain about 20% below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel deliveries remain slightly lower than at this time last year. In Kansas, regular gasoline prices averaged $3.37 a gallon, down six cents from a week ago. But diesel prices are up eight cents week over week to $5.06 a gallon. A young U.S. natural gas mogul may be taking home nearly $1 billion after a deal with oil giant BP. The oil supermajor continues its aggressive expansion into lower-carbon fuels and has agreed to buy gas producer Archea Energy for about $4.1 BILLION including debt. The Houston-based firm captures waste-gas emissions from landfills and farms. The company's CEO Daniel Rice stands to receive about $975 million in cash from the sale his stock. According to a statement, Archea will become a key part of BP’s bioenergy business and accelerate its growth. BP has promised to achieve net-zero emissions by the year 2050, and has made big bets on offshore wind and electric cars. Billionaire wildcat producer Harold Hamm raised his offer for the company stock his family doesn’t already own. He's offering $4.3 billion for the outstanding shares in Continental Resources, hoping to buck the disciplined-spending mantra adopted by rival shale drillers. The largest minority investor, Smead Capital Management, disapproves of the deal, saying Hamm should be paying a lot more. Hamm tells Bloomberg going private will free the shale giant from the wishes of public investors. Oklahoma-City-based Chesapeake Energy is cutting about three percent of its workforce, as it prepares to sell oil production in South Texas and once again re-focus on its core natural-gas operations. Reuters reports the company let go about 40 workers out of a total workforce of 1,200 people earlier this month. Chesapeake is selling off assets acquired three years ago, when the company sought to increase oil production with the $4 billion purchase of Wildhorse Resource Development. Top oil exporter Saudi Aramco may cut prices to Asia in December as weaker-than-expected fuel consumption in China put a lid on regional demand. Reuters reports that could amount to discounts of 30 to 40 cents a barrel. OPEC has increased its global oil demand forecast in both the long and medium term, crediting a more robust recovery than previously expected and a global shift toward prioritizing energy security over a transition to green energy. Europe will increase its reliance on oil imports from the United States after the European Union's embargo on Russian seaborne crude imports enters into force in early December. That's the word from the CEO of the Italian energy group Eni in an interview with Bloomberg Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from Oil Patch: Gasoline prices lower; diesel prices...not

Dilly &amp; Doc is celebrating five years in business at 1119 Main Street in November with a brighter and updated storefront. Upon receiving a Barton County Facade Improvement Grant (FIG), Dilly &amp; Doc owners Brad and Phyllis Brack, worked with several local vendors to improve their signage, outdoor aesthetics, and storefront lighting which includes a custom OPEN sign. "Guests have mentioned they can now see us from the corner of 10th &amp; Main," said Phyllis Brack. "And some have even noticed us for the first time. Because we host classes and private parties into the evening, it's important we are easy to find and appear OPEN for business!"&nbsp;

Embarking on their 'next phase' of business, Brad Brack will be working in the studio on a more regular basis to provide customers with custom furniture refinishing, assisting with private events, and co-hosting Dilly &amp; Doc's seasonal POP-UP Markets. The husband/wife duo have always been a team, but now Brad has more time to dedicate to special projects and the day-to-day operations at Dilly &amp; Doc.&nbsp;

The community is invited to join the celebration of Dilly &amp; Doc's 5th Anniversary, and experience recent updates on the inside as well,&nbsp;at a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting scheduled for Thursday, November&nbsp;10 at 9am.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667317473701.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSDilly &amp; Doc is celebrating five years in business at 1119 Main Street in November with a brighter and updated storefront. Upon receiving a Barton County Facade Improvement Grant (FIG), Dilly &amp; Doc owners Brad and Phyllis Brack, worked with several local vendors to improve their signage, outdoor aesthetics, and storefront lighting which includes a custom OPEN sign. "Guests have mentioned they can now see us from the corner of 10th &amp; Main," said Phyllis Brack. "And some have even noticed us for the first time. Because we host classes and private parties into the evening, it's important we are easy to find and appear OPEN for business!"&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667317500077.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Embarking on their 'next phase' of business, Brad Brack will be working in the studio on a more regular basis to provide customers with custom furniture refinishing, assisting with private events, and co-hosting Dilly &amp; Doc's seasonal POP-UP Markets. The husband/wife duo have always been a team, but now Brad has more time to dedicate to special projects and the day-to-day operations at Dilly &amp; Doc.&nbsp;The community is invited to join the celebration of Dilly &amp; Doc's 5th Anniversary, and experience recent updates on the inside as well,&nbsp;at a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting scheduled for Thursday, November&nbsp;10 at 9am.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667317454910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Celebrating a new look for the next 5+ years at Dilly and Doc

The Barton County Commission called it a "good deal all around." At Wednesday's meeting, the county moved forward on the sale of 20 acres in the northwest section of the county's sandpit area south of Ellinwood. The county also began the process of transferring water rights from Knop Sand to the county. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said he was pleased with how the deal worked out.

"It's really great when a deal comes together that makes great sense for both parties," he said. "This will allow the county to continue to expand our sandpit for a long time in the foreseeable future. It will also allow Knop Sand to enlarge their business and dig more sand. Really, both sides benefit from it."

About a year ago, Barton County purchased a 54-acre tract of land adjacent to the sandpit. The county wanted to sell or trade 20 acres of the land, and Knop Sand agreed to trade some of their water rights to the county for the land. County Engineer Barry McManaman said the trade will be hugely beneficial to the county.

"Right now we probably only have about three or four more acres we can pump," he said. "Our existing water right is about 11 surface acres. By going through this deal, this trade with Knop Sand, we're going to bump that up to where we'll have about 54 acres of water rights. It's a huge deal for the county. We're going to be able to operate at that location for many, many more years if we follow through with this."

Wednesday's approval by the commission merely kept the ball rolling in a process that will likely take months. With the commission's approval, McManaman will now submit the proper paperwork to the Division of Water Rights. A deed was also signed but will not be filed until the transfer of water rights is complete.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667408439470.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Commission called it a "good deal all around." At Wednesday's meeting, the county moved forward on the sale of 20 acres in the northwest section of the county's sandpit area south of Ellinwood. The county also began the process of transferring water rights from Knop Sand to the county. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said he was pleased with how the deal worked out."It's really great when a deal comes together that makes great sense for both parties," he said. "This will allow the county to continue to expand our sandpit for a long time in the foreseeable future. It will also allow Knop Sand to enlarge their business and dig more sand. Really, both sides benefit from it."About a year ago, Barton County purchased a 54-acre tract of land adjacent to the sandpit. The county wanted to sell or trade 20 acres of the land, and Knop Sand agreed to trade some of their water rights to the county for the land. County Engineer Barry McManaman said the trade will be hugely beneficial to the county."Right now we probably only have about three or four more acres we can pump," he said. "Our existing water right is about 11 surface acres. By going through this deal, this trade with Knop Sand, we're going to bump that up to where we'll have about 54 acres of water rights. It's a huge deal for the county. We're going to be able to operate at that location for many, many more years if we follow through with this."Wednesday's approval by the commission merely kept the ball rolling in a process that will likely take months. With the commission's approval, McManaman will now submit the proper paperwork to the Division of Water Rights. A deed was also signed but will not be filed until the transfer of water rights is complete.

Barton Commission signs off on trade that will benefit Knop Sand, county

Soils across Kansas are still running above 50°F at the 4-inch depth in most locations. It is best to delay application of anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures drop below this threshold. Applying anhydrous ammonia in the fall ahead of the next corn crop has some appeal to producers. For one thing, fall fertilizer application spreads out the workload in the spring. Secondly, wet conditions in the spring sometimes prevents producers from applying lower-cost anhydrous ammonia ahead of corn planting, and forces them to apply more expensive sources after planting. Equally important for many producers have been issues with anhydrous ammonia availability at times in the spring.

Despite those advantages, producers should be aware that there is potential for higher nitrogen (N) loss in the spring following a fall application, as a result of nitrification of the ammonium during late winter and very early spring and subsequent leaching, or denitrification.

Reactions of anhydrous ammonia in the soil - when anhydrous ammonia is applied to the soil, a large portion of the ammonia is converted to ammonium (NH4+), and can be bound to clay and organic matter particles within the soil. As long as the nitrogen remains in the ammonium form, it can be retained on the clay and organic matter, and does not readily move in most soils; except sandy soils where leaching is a concern.

At soil temperatures above freezing, nitrification occurs - ammonium is converted by specific soil microbes into nitrate-N (NO3-). Since this is a microbial reaction, it is very strongly influenced by soil temperatures. The higher the temperature, the quicker the conversion will occur. Depending on soil temperature, pH, and moisture content, it can take 2-3 months or longer to convert all the ammonia applied in the fall to nitrate.

By delaying application until cold weather, most of the applied N can enter the winter as ammonium, and over-winter losses of the applied N will be minimal.

Producers should wait until soil temperatures are less than 50 °F at a depth of 4 inches before applying ammonia in the fall or early winter. Nitrification does not cease below 50 °F, but rather soils will likely become cold enough to limit the nitrification process.

The use of a nitrification inhibitor can help reduce N losses from fall N applications under specific conditions, particularly during periods when soil temperatures warm back up for a period after application.

One should also consider soil physical properties when considering fall application. Fall applications of N for corn should not be made on sandy soils prone to leaching, particularly those over shallow, unprotected aquifers. Rather, fall N applications should focus on deep, medium- to heavy-textured soils where water movement through the profile is slower.

When is nitrogen lost? When considering fall application of N, keep in mind that loss of N during the fall and winter is not normally a problem in Kansas. The conversion of “protected” ammonium to “loss prone” nitrate during the fall and winter can be minimized by waiting to make applications until soils have cooled, and by using products such as nitrification inhibitors. The fact that essentially all the N may remain in the soil as ammonium all winter, coupled with our dry winters, means minimal N is likely to be lost over winter.

However, soils often warm up early in the spring and allow nitrification to get started well before corn planting. Generally, if the wheat is greening up, nitrification has begun! Thus, one of the potential downsides of fall application is that nitrification can begin in early March, and essentially be complete by late May and June.

Summary - if anhydrous ammonia is to be applied in the fall, there are a number of factors that must be considered, including soil texture, temperature, and soil moisture. Consider the following guidelines:

· Do not apply anhydrous ammonia in the fall on sandy soils.

· On silt loam or heavier-textured soils, wait to apply anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures at the 4-inch depth are below 50 °F. Grass covered 2-inch depth typically reaches the 50 mark around the 20th of November in central Kansas. You can expect the 4-inch depth to lag behind that date depending on soil type and earlier if the ground is bare.

· Use a nitrification inhibitor with anhydrous ammonia to help reduce fall nitrification.

· To check the soil temperature in your area, visit the K-State Research and Extension Weather Data Library at: http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Soils across Kansas are still running above 50°F at the 4-inch depth in most locations. It is best to delay application of anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures drop below this threshold. Applying anhydrous ammonia in the fall ahead of the next corn crop has some appeal to producers. For one thing, fall fertilizer application spreads out the workload in the spring. Secondly, wet conditions in the spring sometimes prevents producers from applying lower-cost anhydrous ammonia ahead of corn planting, and forces them to apply more expensive sources after planting. Equally important for many producers have been issues with anhydrous ammonia availability at times in the spring.Despite those advantages, producers should be aware that there is potential for higher nitrogen (N) loss in the spring following a fall application, as a result of nitrification of the ammonium during late winter and very early spring and subsequent leaching, or denitrification.Reactions of anhydrous ammonia in the soil - when anhydrous ammonia is applied to the soil, a large portion of the ammonia is converted to ammonium (NH4+), and can be bound to clay and organic matter particles within the soil. As long as the nitrogen remains in the ammonium form, it can be retained on the clay and organic matter, and does not readily move in most soils; except sandy soils where leaching is a concern.At soil temperatures above freezing, nitrification occurs - ammonium is converted by specific soil microbes into nitrate-N (NO3-). Since this is a microbial reaction, it is very strongly influenced by soil temperatures. The higher the temperature, the quicker the conversion will occur. Depending on soil temperature, pH, and moisture content, it can take 2-3 months or longer to convert all the ammonia applied in the fall to nitrate.By delaying application until cold weather, most of the applied N can enter the winter as ammonium, and over-winter losses of the applied N will be minimal.Producers should wait until soil temperatures are less than 50 °F at a depth of 4 inches before applying ammonia in the fall or early winter. Nitrification does not cease below 50 °F, but rather soils will likely become cold enough to limit the nitrification process.The use of a nitrification inhibitor can help reduce N losses from fall N applications under specific conditions, particularly during periods when soil temperatures warm back up for a period after application.One should also consider soil physical properties when considering fall application. Fall applications of N for corn should not be made on sandy soils prone to leaching, particularly those over shallow, unprotected aquifers. Rather, fall N applications should focus on deep, medium- to heavy-textured soils where water movement through the profile is slower.When is nitrogen lost? When considering fall application of N, keep in mind that loss of N during the fall and winter is not normally a problem in Kansas. The conversion of “protected” ammonium to “loss prone” nitrate during the fall and winter can be minimized by waiting to make applications until soils have cooled, and by using products such as nitrification inhibitors. The fact that essentially all the N may remain in the soil as ammonium all winter, coupled with our dry winters, means minimal N is likely to be lost over winter.However, soils often warm up early in the spring and allow nitrification to get started well before corn planting. Generally, if the wheat is greening up, nitrification has begun! Thus, one of the potential downsides of fall application is that nitrification can begin in early March, and essentially be complete by late May and June.Summary - if anhydrous ammonia is to be applied in the fall, there are a number of factors that must be considered, including soil texture, temperature, and soil moisture. Consider the following guidelines:· Do not apply anhydrous ammonia in the fall on sandy soils.· On silt loam or heavier-textured soils, wait to apply anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures at the 4-inch depth are below 50 °F. Grass covered 2-inch depth typically reaches the 50 mark around the 20th of November in central Kansas. You can expect the 4-inch depth to lag behind that date depending on soil type and earlier if the ground is bare.· Use a nitrification inhibitor with anhydrous ammonia to help reduce fall nitrification.· To check the soil temperature in your area, visit the K-State Research and Extension Weather Data Library at: http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/

CAMPBELL: Considerations for fall applications of anhydrous ammonia

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Along with the Barton County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA, the Barton
County Health Department concluded another well-used drug take back day last weekend
in Great Bend. 
Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman said the event ended with 296.8 pounds of unused prescription and nonprescription medications being
disposed of by the public. "This year, within the first half hour, we had about 50 vehicles come through," said Winkelman. "Over the years, we've averaged around 200 to 300 pounds." 
The Health Department and Sheriff’s Office usually team up twice a year, in
April and October, to accept expired or unused medications free of charge. "This event is really a vital public health safety issue to get the drugs out of circulation that are expired or not needed anymore," said Winkelman. 
Since 2016, the Barton County drug take back day has collected and disposed of
2,925.4 pounds of medications and controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667329034595.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAlong with the Barton County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA, the Barton
County Health Department concluded another well-used drug take back day last weekend
in Great Bend. 
Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman said the event ended with 296.8 pounds of unused prescription and nonprescription medications being
disposed of by the public. "This year, within the first half hour, we had about 50 vehicles come through," said Winkelman. "Over the years, we've averaged around 200 to 300 pounds." 
The Health Department and Sheriff’s Office usually team up twice a year, in
April and October, to accept expired or unused medications free of charge. "This event is really a vital public health safety issue to get the drugs out of circulation that are expired or not needed anymore," said Winkelman. 
Since 2016, the Barton County drug take back day has collected and disposed of
2,925.4 pounds of medications and controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Co. drug take back: Nearly 300 pounds of medications collected

11/1 BOOKED: David Sims, Sr., on Hoisington Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Alexis Battle on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, total bond set at $1,530 cash only.

BOOKED: Alexander Anderson on Harvey County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

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

RELEASED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault of a Law Enforcement Officer, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Monty Alexander on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Intoxicated Pedestrian, on 48-hour OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/1 BOOKED: David Sims, Sr., on Hoisington Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Alexis Battle on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, total bond set at $1,530 cash only.BOOKED: Alexander Anderson on Harvey County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Brandon Rice on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault of a Law Enforcement Officer, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Monty Alexander on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Intoxicated Pedestrian, on 48-hour OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity 11/1

Past members of the Great Bend Rec Noon and Morning basketball programs were honored in a “Hall of Fame” reception on Oct. 23, 2022. 

Past members honored were Jim Briel, Dennis Call, John Cross, L.T. Fleske, Howard Partington, Craig Thurman and Jim Vopat. This was the Rec’s second induction ceremony with the first one taking place in 2012. 

Besides recognizing longtime participants in our Basketball programs, the “Hall of Fame” committee has designated a fund in the Great Bend Rec Foundation to support future GBRC basketball projects that enhance basketball opportunities in our community.

For more information about this program and other programs the Great Bend Rec offers, please visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>&nbsp;or call the Recreation Commission office at 620-793-3755 ext. 110.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667318881722.jpeg" alt="Inductees from Left to Right: Jim Briel, John Cross, Craig Thurman, L. T. Fleske, Howard Partington, Jim Vopat, Dennis Call (not pictured)" />
 <figcaption>Inductees from Left to Right: Jim Briel, John Cross, Craig Thurman, L. T. Fleske, Howard Partington, Jim Vopat, Dennis Call (not pictured)</figcaption>
 </figure>Past members of the Great Bend Rec Noon and Morning basketball programs were honored in a “Hall of Fame” reception on Oct. 23, 2022. Past members honored were Jim Briel, Dennis Call, John Cross, L.T. Fleske, Howard Partington, Craig Thurman and Jim Vopat. This was the Rec’s second induction ceremony with the first one taking place in 2012. Besides recognizing longtime participants in our Basketball programs, the “Hall of Fame” committee has designated a fund in the Great Bend Rec Foundation to support future GBRC basketball projects that enhance basketball opportunities in our community.For more information about this program and other programs the Great Bend Rec offers, please visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>&nbsp;or call the Recreation Commission office at 620-793-3755 ext. 110.

Great Bend Rec honors 'noon ball' Hall of Fame

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy, with a south wind 20 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Thursday A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Thursday Night Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 42. Breezy, with a south wind 13 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Friday A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Chance of precipitation is 50 percent.

Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 68.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy, with a south wind 20 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Thursday A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Thursday Night Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 42. Breezy, with a south wind 13 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.Friday A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Chance of precipitation is 50 percent.Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34.Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.Monday Sunny, with a high near 68.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's Weather

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher We are in the heart of what has been termed the “silly season of politics.” I know that for many of us voter fatigue has set in, and I have good news and bad news on that front. The good news is that in about a week or less it will all be over. The bad news is that the next cycle is a presidential election, so you have about six months before that gets cranked up. Unfortunately, the sheer volume of campaign ads and fliers turns many of us off or makes us numb to the candidates. I get that but you must fight through the urge to ignore all of it and tune it out. This is one of the most critical elections that we as an ag community have faced and this is a call for all hands on deck. It is true that all votes count but when it comes to agriculture that statement has never been truer. Candidates who support agriculture need your vote. Kansas is becoming increasingly urban and because of that voters in those areas are farther and farther away from agriculture. We are a democracy where the majority rules. Soon we could find ourselves having less of a voice over who represents us and, more importantly, what legislation gets passed. We know laws made in Topeka and Washington D.C. can have huge impacts on how we run our farms and ranches. It is important that we elect representatives that will have our best interests in mind and who understand our business. That is why the work Voters Organized To Elect Farm Bureau Friends does is so important. They take the opinions from the grassroots level and develop a list of candidates who are friendly to agriculture and will keep our best interests in mind. That work is not done in a couple of days but rather in a painstaking process, making sure that all voices are heard. However, that great work doesn’t mean anything if we don’t get out and vote for those candidates. While I would like you to vote for the people on that list, and I ask that you take the time to look at it, I just want you to exercise your right to vote. Historically those of us in rural areas have gotten out at higher levels than our urban counterparts, and that amplifies our voice. Lately, that has not been the case and is a trend we need to reverse. If you are really tired of the noise around the election, go vote now. Advanced voting is open, check with your county clerk to find out how. Then it is done and no matter what happens, your voice is heard. If you are like me and a traditionalist, make sure you get out and vote on Nov. 8. Every vote counts and every vote matters. We have seen it time and time again, even right here in Kansas. Please, look at the list of VOTE FBF endorsed candidates before you make your decision. I cannot stress just how important your vote is. It’s our chance to be a voice for Kansas.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher We are in the heart of what has been termed the “silly season of politics.” I know that for many of us voter fatigue has set in, and I have good news and bad news on that front. The good news is that in about a week or less it will all be over. The bad news is that the next cycle is a presidential election, so you have about six months before that gets cranked up. Unfortunately, the sheer volume of campaign ads and fliers turns many of us off or makes us numb to the candidates. I get that but you must fight through the urge to ignore all of it and tune it out. This is one of the most critical elections that we as an ag community have faced and this is a call for all hands on deck. It is true that all votes count but when it comes to agriculture that statement has never been truer. Candidates who support agriculture need your vote. Kansas is becoming increasingly urban and because of that voters in those areas are farther and farther away from agriculture. We are a democracy where the majority rules. Soon we could find ourselves having less of a voice over who represents us and, more importantly, what legislation gets passed. We know laws made in Topeka and Washington D.C. can have huge impacts on how we run our farms and ranches. It is important that we elect representatives that will have our best interests in mind and who understand our business. That is why the work Voters Organized To Elect Farm Bureau Friends does is so important. They take the opinions from the grassroots level and develop a list of candidates who are friendly to agriculture and will keep our best interests in mind. That work is not done in a couple of days but rather in a painstaking process, making sure that all voices are heard. However, that great work doesn’t mean anything if we don’t get out and vote for those candidates. While I would like you to vote for the people on that list, and I ask that you take the time to look at it, I just want you to exercise your right to vote. Historically those of us in rural areas have gotten out at higher levels than our urban counterparts, and that amplifies our voice. Lately, that has not been the case and is a trend we need to reverse. If you are really tired of the noise around the election, go vote now. Advanced voting is open, check with your county clerk to find out how. Then it is done and no matter what happens, your voice is heard. If you are like me and a traditionalist, make sure you get out and vote on Nov. 8. Every vote counts and every vote matters. We have seen it time and time again, even right here in Kansas. Please, look at the list of VOTE FBF endorsed candidates before you make your decision. I cannot stress just how important your vote is. It’s our chance to be a voice for Kansas."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Be a voice for Kansas

The 17th annual Spaghetti Feed hosted by the Great Bend Fire
Department will take place Thursday, Nov. 3 at the
Columbus Club, 723 Main Street. Not only will the charity drive include a meal,
there will also be several big-ticket items given away through a raffle. 
Firefighter Garrett Tindall said the event is the department’s fundraiser that
allows them to give back to the community even more. 
"Throughout the year, we have meetings about once a month to discuss ways to give back," said Tindall. "If someone brings up a charity, and we have funds available, we'll donate to that cause. We donate to Kans for Kids. We do scholarships for high school and college students that are going into EMT or first responder fields." 
Admission is $7 and children age five and under can eat free. The spaghetti
feed will go from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657285851489.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe 17th annual Spaghetti Feed hosted by the Great Bend Fire
Department will take place Thursday, Nov. 3 at the
Columbus Club, 723 Main Street. Not only will the charity drive include a meal,
there will also be several big-ticket items given away through a raffle. 
Firefighter Garrett Tindall said the event is the department’s fundraiser that
allows them to give back to the community even more. 
"Throughout the year, we have meetings about once a month to discuss ways to give back," said Tindall. "If someone brings up a charity, and we have funds available, we'll donate to that cause. We donate to Kans for Kids. We do scholarships for high school and college students that are going into EMT or first responder fields." 
Admission is $7 and children age five and under can eat free. The spaghetti
feed will go from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Fire Dept. annual spaghetti feed is Thursday

Halloween night turned into more trick than treat for Barton County Landfill workers and Great Bend firefighters. Fire crews responded to a large trash fire just after 10 p.m. Monday night, working into Tuesday morning to control the blaze. Solid Waste Director Jennifer Hamby said it can be difficult to determine what causes a fire at the landfill.

"One of the biggest causes of landfill fires, though, are lithium batteries," she said. "If they're smashed or crushed, they're ignited. But it could be any kind of chemical reaction. Who knows what's in trash? If somebody would throw their old pool chemicals away, they could have a reaction. It's really just hard to tell."

A few hundred yards of trash were on fire. Two landfill personnel were called in overnight to operate machinery. Hamby was pleased to report no real damage occurred with the fire.

"Thank goodness, none of our equipment was damaged and nobody was hurt," she said. "This was pretty mild compared to some we've had out here."

Great Bend fire utilized portable water tanks to fight the blaze, and Hamby said the landfill fire truck was also used. In cases of trash fires, she said, the staff uses bulldozers and the compactor to move burning trash to the side and cover it with dirt once extinguished.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667326495917.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostHalloween night turned into more trick than treat for Barton County Landfill workers and Great Bend firefighters. Fire crews responded to a large trash fire just after 10 p.m. Monday night, working into Tuesday morning to control the blaze. Solid Waste Director Jennifer Hamby said it can be difficult to determine what causes a fire at the landfill."One of the biggest causes of landfill fires, though, are lithium batteries," she said. "If they're smashed or crushed, they're ignited. But it could be any kind of chemical reaction. Who knows what's in trash? If somebody would throw their old pool chemicals away, they could have a reaction. It's really just hard to tell."A few hundred yards of trash were on fire. Two landfill personnel were called in overnight to operate machinery. Hamby was pleased to report no real damage occurred with the fire."Thank goodness, none of our equipment was damaged and nobody was hurt," she said. "This was pretty mild compared to some we've had out here."Great Bend fire utilized portable water tanks to fight the blaze, and Hamby said the landfill fire truck was also used. In cases of trash fires, she said, the staff uses bulldozers and the compactor to move burning trash to the side and cover it with dirt once extinguished.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667326534818.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

No damages after Halloween night fire at Barton Co. Landfill

That looks trashy, but at least the students at the fifth annual Trash to Trends recycled art competition have an excuse. Wednesday in St. John, students from eight schools in a 100-mile radius will compete by reusing refuse to create wearable fashion. St. John K-12 Art Teacher Brad Emery started the event with his wife five years ago and is pleased to see it grow.

"We always hoped the kids would enjoy it, but we've honestly been surprised by how positive and how warm the reception has been," he said. "The first couple of years we'd never done anything like this. Nobody had ever been a part of anything like this."

Brad and his wife run a photography business on the side, and first got the idea from seeing east coast photographers using dresses made of newspaper. As a third-grade teacher, he introduced the idea of a competition to USD 350 administration. Now Trash to Trends is officially hosted by the school.

Emery has moved to the art room this year, and that's given him a new perspective on the competition. He enjoys seeing the kids come in with grand ideas, then problem-solve as those ideas fail.

"They all start very confident, and say they're going to use newspaper, or old CDs, or old shopping bags," he said. "An amount of them have these grand ambitions, then when they get into the project, realize this is a lot more challenging than I thought it was going to be. That's the part I've really seen kids flourish.

"To be in the classroom with them this year, where they start to problem solve and they realize this isn't working the way I thought it would, how am I going to modify or adapt this design to get it to do what I want, to do it in a timeframe, and to make these materials shape and form the way I want them to."

This year's competition will feature artists from St. John, Larned, Macksville, Little River, McPherson, Medicine Lodge, and Greensburg. Emery said it's a nice way to bring art students together in a different way.

"With all other activities in school, you get to compete, and you get to go to events and show what you've got," he said. "I feel like with art, a lot of times, you're delivering finished pieces. That great, it's not to knock traditional art competitions, but I think the kids really enjoy getting to see the behind-the-scenes."

To top things off, a local DJ provides music for the runway show, and participants are treated to local pizza. "It's really been a good opportunity for kids to build some camaraderie, to enjoy time together, to kick back," Emery said, "and get to show off their skills I don't know they get a whole lot of other opportunities to do."

Students will be working at the Stafford County Annex, 210 E. Third Ave. in St. John, from 9:15 a.m. to noon. A short runway show will follow at 2 p.m., with awards announced after. The public is invited to come and go as the students turn their trash into trends. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667322313462.png" alt="From left: Cambry Ballard of Greensburg, Makalah Henke of Medicine Lodge, and Emma Randels of Medicine Lodge model dresses from previous Trash to Trends recycle art competitions." />
 <figcaption>From left: Cambry Ballard of Greensburg, Makalah Henke of Medicine Lodge, and Emma Randels of Medicine Lodge model dresses from previous Trash to Trends recycle art competitions.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThat looks trashy, but at least the students at the fifth annual Trash to Trends recycled art competition have an excuse. Wednesday in St. John, students from eight schools in a 100-mile radius will compete by reusing refuse to create wearable fashion. St. John K-12 Art Teacher Brad Emery started the event with his wife five years ago and is pleased to see it grow."We always hoped the kids would enjoy it, but we've honestly been surprised by how positive and how warm the reception has been," he said. "The first couple of years we'd never done anything like this. Nobody had ever been a part of anything like this."Brad and his wife run a photography business on the side, and first got the idea from seeing east coast photographers using dresses made of newspaper. As a third-grade teacher, he introduced the idea of a competition to USD 350 administration. Now Trash to Trends is officially hosted by the school.Emery has moved to the art room this year, and that's given him a new perspective on the competition. He enjoys seeing the kids come in with grand ideas, then problem-solve as those ideas fail."They all start very confident, and say they're going to use newspaper, or old CDs, or old shopping bags," he said. "An amount of them have these grand ambitions, then when they get into the project, realize this is a lot more challenging than I thought it was going to be. That's the part I've really seen kids flourish."To be in the classroom with them this year, where they start to problem solve and they realize this isn't working the way I thought it would, how am I going to modify or adapt this design to get it to do what I want, to do it in a timeframe, and to make these materials shape and form the way I want them to."This year's competition will feature artists from St. John, Larned, Macksville, Little River, McPherson, Medicine Lodge, and Greensburg. Emery said it's a nice way to bring art students together in a different way."With all other activities in school, you get to compete, and you get to go to events and show what you've got," he said. "I feel like with art, a lot of times, you're delivering finished pieces. That great, it's not to knock traditional art competitions, but I think the kids really enjoy getting to see the behind-the-scenes."To top things off, a local DJ provides music for the runway show, and participants are treated to local pizza. "It's really been a good opportunity for kids to build some camaraderie, to enjoy time together, to kick back," Emery said, "and get to show off their skills I don't know they get a whole lot of other opportunities to do."Students will be working at the Stafford County Annex, 210 E. Third Ave. in St. John, from 9:15 a.m. to noon. A short runway show will follow at 2 p.m., with awards announced after. The public is invited to come and go as the students turn their trash into trends.

Fashionistas converge on St. John for fifth annual Trash to Trends challenge

The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Top 10 Pollinators” on Wednesday, Nov. 2, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; 

Make plans to join us to learn the top 10 pollinators and how to attract them to your yard.&nbsp; We all know about bees and butterflies and their importance, but beetles, flies, bats, and even a gecko can play an important role in our food supply.&nbsp; We can thank bees for 1 in every 3 bites of food we eat.&nbsp; Lean about our important pollinators and some of the plants that can help make your backyard a hospitable host to these important creatures.&nbsp; Mandy Kern, KWEC Program Specialist, will be the speaker for the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602181603891.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Top 10 Pollinators” on Wednesday, Nov. 2, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; Make plans to join us to learn the top 10 pollinators and how to attract them to your yard.&nbsp; We all know about bees and butterflies and their importance, but beetles, flies, bats, and even a gecko can play an important role in our food supply.&nbsp; We can thank bees for 1 in every 3 bites of food we eat.&nbsp; Lean about our important pollinators and some of the plants that can help make your backyard a hospitable host to these important creatures.&nbsp; Mandy Kern, KWEC Program Specialist, will be the speaker for the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;The presentation will also be available on the Great Bend Rec Facebook page as a live event.&nbsp; A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>.&nbsp; Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

GBRC: Stop 'N Learn - Top 10 Pollinators

Already there is a nip in the air most mornings. Starting Friday, Nov. 4, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce will store your recreational vehicles for the winter at the Expo Complex west of Great Bend. Chamber Office Business Manager Tayler Stegman said the Chamber is now taking reservations.

"We store campers, boats, motorcycles, whatever you need stored throughout the winter in there," she said. "We typically don't have events out there during the winter time, so just to bring in some income, we opened it up for winter storage."

The Chamber has offered the service for several years now. A one-time fee covers the duration of storage from Nov. 4, 2022, through March 4, 2023. Spaces 20 feet and under are $225, and larger spaces are $250. Facilities at the Expo Complex are locked, maintained, and regularly checked by staff members.

"I feel like it's relatively cheap and it's not going to take up room in your garage," said Stegman. "You can have peace of mind that it's stored safely out at the Expo Grounds where there are regularly people out there checking on the buildings."

Reserve a spot by calling the Chamber at (620) 792-2401, or emailing gbcc@greatbend.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667316133437.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAlready there is a nip in the air most mornings. Starting Friday, Nov. 4, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce will store your recreational vehicles for the winter at the Expo Complex west of Great Bend. Chamber Office Business Manager Tayler Stegman said the Chamber is now taking reservations."We store campers, boats, motorcycles, whatever you need stored throughout the winter in there," she said. "We typically don't have events out there during the winter time, so just to bring in some income, we opened it up for winter storage."The Chamber has offered the service for several years now. A one-time fee covers the duration of storage from Nov. 4, 2022, through March 4, 2023. Spaces 20 feet and under are $225, and larger spaces are $250. Facilities at the Expo Complex are locked, maintained, and regularly checked by staff members."I feel like it's relatively cheap and it's not going to take up room in your garage," said Stegman. "You can have peace of mind that it's stored safely out at the Expo Grounds where there are regularly people out there checking on the buildings."Reserve a spot by calling the Chamber at (620) 792-2401, or emailing gbcc@greatbend.org.

GB Chamber accepting reservations for RV winter storage

RUSSELL — Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;on Tuesday announced&nbsp;$1 million will be going to the city of Russell to increase affordable and moderate-income housing&nbsp;options in&nbsp;central Kansas. Russell is using the funds, allocated through the bipartisan&nbsp;House Bill 2510 Kelly signed&nbsp;in May,&nbsp;to redevelop the former Holland Hotel into loft-style apartments.&nbsp;

“Across Kansas, we are&nbsp;expanding housing in innovative ways&nbsp;so every Kansas family can afford to put a roof over their head — and so we can attract and retain the workers needed to continue our record-breaking economic success,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“I applaud the city of Russell for&nbsp;finding a solution that&nbsp;preserves their history&nbsp;and benefits future generations.”&nbsp;

According to the city’s most recent housing assessment, Russell has a low inventory of moderate-income housing&nbsp;and&nbsp;affordable, quality rentals,&nbsp;making&nbsp;it difficult for employers to recruit qualified employees&nbsp;to the community.&nbsp;

To address the issue,&nbsp;Russell Development Inc. hired a structural engineer to evaluate the&nbsp;Holland Hotel, a 1910 building that has&nbsp;been&nbsp;vacant&nbsp;for two decades&nbsp;and fallen into disrepair.&nbsp;Using the $1 million&nbsp;in&nbsp;funding, the building will be redeveloped into at least&nbsp;10&nbsp;rental units ranging in size from 700 to 1,100 square feet and will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom,&nbsp;and two-bedroom floor plans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Redeveloping unused structures and spaces is&nbsp;a&nbsp;creative way to pave the way for new housing options&nbsp;in&nbsp;our rural areas,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and&nbsp;Secretary of&nbsp;Commerce&nbsp;David&nbsp;Toland said.&nbsp;“I’m pleased to see the city of Russell taking a strategic approach to address the housing challenges in their community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The units will be loft-style with exposed brick walls, wood floors and open ceilings to evoke an urban sense of style geared towards tenants who cannot afford or do not desire to own a house. Rents are anticipated to range from $575 to $725 per month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Our community has a great&nbsp;history&nbsp;and the Holland Hotel is a part of that history,”&nbsp;Russell Mayor Jim Cross&nbsp;said. “The repurposing of the hotel is a great way to keep history alive.&nbsp;Many of our biggest employers have a need for&nbsp;employee housing, and the proposed loft style apartments will help them attract new employees. Young professionals want many of the amenities that these apartments will provide.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666734874208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorRUSSELL — Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;on Tuesday announced&nbsp;$1 million will be going to the city of Russell to increase affordable and moderate-income housing&nbsp;options in&nbsp;central Kansas. Russell is using the funds, allocated through the bipartisan&nbsp;House Bill 2510 Kelly signed&nbsp;in May,&nbsp;to redevelop the former Holland Hotel into loft-style apartments.&nbsp;“Across Kansas, we are&nbsp;expanding housing in innovative ways&nbsp;so every Kansas family can afford to put a roof over their head — and so we can attract and retain the workers needed to continue our record-breaking economic success,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“I applaud the city of Russell for&nbsp;finding a solution that&nbsp;preserves their history&nbsp;and benefits future generations.”&nbsp;According to the city’s most recent housing assessment, Russell has a low inventory of moderate-income housing&nbsp;and&nbsp;affordable, quality rentals,&nbsp;making&nbsp;it difficult for employers to recruit qualified employees&nbsp;to the community.&nbsp;To address the issue,&nbsp;Russell Development Inc. hired a structural engineer to evaluate the&nbsp;Holland Hotel, a 1910 building that has&nbsp;been&nbsp;vacant&nbsp;for two decades&nbsp;and fallen into disrepair.&nbsp;Using the $1 million&nbsp;in&nbsp;funding, the building will be redeveloped into at least&nbsp;10&nbsp;rental units ranging in size from 700 to 1,100 square feet and will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom,&nbsp;and two-bedroom floor plans.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Redeveloping unused structures and spaces is&nbsp;a&nbsp;creative way to pave the way for new housing options&nbsp;in&nbsp;our rural areas,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and&nbsp;Secretary of&nbsp;Commerce&nbsp;David&nbsp;Toland said.&nbsp;“I’m pleased to see the city of Russell taking a strategic approach to address the housing challenges in their community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The units will be loft-style with exposed brick walls, wood floors and open ceilings to evoke an urban sense of style geared towards tenants who cannot afford or do not desire to own a house. Rents are anticipated to range from $575 to $725 per month.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Our community has a great&nbsp;history&nbsp;and the Holland Hotel is a part of that history,”&nbsp;Russell Mayor Jim Cross&nbsp;said. “The repurposing of the hotel is a great way to keep history alive.&nbsp;Many of our biggest employers have a need for&nbsp;employee housing, and the proposed loft style apartments will help them attract new employees. Young professionals want many of the amenities that these apartments will provide.”&nbsp;

Russell will receive $1M for loft apartment project

From Great Bend High School debate coach Kim Heath...

Trophy shelf space is hard to find in the squad room of the GBHS debate team this season. Coach Kim Heath’s team brought another championship trophy home from Dodge City last weekend, topping WAC rival squads from Liberal and Garden City.

In Varsity action, Junior Chrisangel Adame and Sophomore Lea Nokes won 2nd place medals with a 4-1 record for the second week in a row. Senior Xanna Smith paired with Freshman Zachary Hart to go 3-2 on the day and earned 5th place medals. Sixth place medals went to Juniors Milena Carbajal and Thomas Henrikson who also went 3-2. Senior Aliyah Fryberger and Freshman Jennifer Palacio also finished 3-2 just out of medal contention at 7th place.

Juniors Chanler Riley and Justin Chanka also debated in the varsity division for the Panthers. In addition, two novice teams tried out their skills in the varsity division. Senior Gavin Hirsh and Freshman Hannah Hopkins had a respectable 3-2 win-loss record, while freshmen Quinton Heath and Rhys Froetschner gained valuable experience against seasoned varsity teams. “Facing experienced debaters instead of other novices really helps the kids realize that speaking skills are not enough to be successful at the varsity level,” Coach Heath said. “They have a much better understanding of the way arguments are structured and how to answer more sophisticated arguments.”

All of the GBHS novice teams went 3-2 on the day with 3rd Place medals going to Sophomores Ailey Williams and Danica Cline. Freshmen Ellie Damm and Kaylee Haag earned 5th place medals while 7th Place went to Freshmen Logan Urban and Keaton Kruckenberg.

The Panthers travel east this weekend and will compete at both Nickerson and Sedgwick High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667316390389.jpeg" alt="Back Row:&nbsp; Zach Hart, Chanler Riley, Logan Urban, Chrisangel Adame, Lea Nokes Middle Row:&nbsp; Xanna Smith, Rhys Froetschner, Justin Chanka, Gavin Hirsh, Thomas Henrikson, Aliyah Fryberger, Quinton Heath, Keaton Kruckenberg, Danica Cline Front Row:&nbsp; Jennifer Palacio, Kaylee Haag, Ailey Williams, Hannah Hopkins, Milena Carbajal, Ellie Damm&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Back Row:&nbsp; Zach Hart, Chanler Riley, Logan Urban, Chrisangel Adame, Lea Nokes Middle Row:&nbsp; Xanna Smith, Rhys Froetschner, Justin Chanka, Gavin Hirsh, Thomas Henrikson, Aliyah Fryberger, Quinton Heath, Keaton Kruckenberg, Danica Cline Front Row:&nbsp; Jennifer Palacio, Kaylee Haag, Ailey Williams, Hannah Hopkins, Milena Carbajal, Ellie Damm&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend High School debate coach Kim Heath...Trophy shelf space is hard to find in the squad room of the GBHS debate team this season. Coach Kim Heath’s team brought another championship trophy home from Dodge City last weekend, topping WAC rival squads from Liberal and Garden City.In Varsity action, Junior Chrisangel Adame and Sophomore Lea Nokes won 2nd place medals with a 4-1 record for the second week in a row. Senior Xanna Smith paired with Freshman Zachary Hart to go 3-2 on the day and earned 5th place medals. Sixth place medals went to Juniors Milena Carbajal and Thomas Henrikson who also went 3-2. Senior Aliyah Fryberger and Freshman Jennifer Palacio also finished 3-2 just out of medal contention at 7th place.Juniors Chanler Riley and Justin Chanka also debated in the varsity division for the Panthers. In addition, two novice teams tried out their skills in the varsity division. Senior Gavin Hirsh and Freshman Hannah Hopkins had a respectable 3-2 win-loss record, while freshmen Quinton Heath and Rhys Froetschner gained valuable experience against seasoned varsity teams. “Facing experienced debaters instead of other novices really helps the kids realize that speaking skills are not enough to be successful at the varsity level,” Coach Heath said. “They have a much better understanding of the way arguments are structured and how to answer more sophisticated arguments.”All of the GBHS novice teams went 3-2 on the day with 3rd Place medals going to Sophomores Ailey Williams and Danica Cline. Freshmen Ellie Damm and Kaylee Haag earned 5th place medals while 7th Place went to Freshmen Logan Urban and Keaton Kruckenberg.The Panthers travel east this weekend and will compete at both Nickerson and Sedgwick High School.

Great Bend debate team wins 1st place at Dodge City

Kimberly Becker started working with Golden Belt Community Foundation last
spring to facilitate the Leadership Golden Belt program. The program is
designed to empower participants to understand what adaptive challenges means
contextually. Becker said the course brings their challenges to the table and
helps them overcome obstacles. "We are partnering with the Kansas Leadership concept," said Becker. "We're making it a hybrid with coaching. Coaching helps them bring those concepts down to a level of how to implement them in their personal lives." 
The next Leadership Golden Belt program begins in January and meets on Tuesdays
for seven weeks. 
"No matter if someone is an entrepreneur, stay-at-home mom or a bank executive, the program fits for all of those," said Becker. "It starts with the focus on ourselves and how we manage ourselves through difficult situations and mobilizing people to have a common purpose." 
Registration is $300 per person with scholarships available. Fill out the application at <a href="https://goldenbeltcf.org/leadership/">goldenbeltcf.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1667247889669.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostKimberly Becker started working with Golden Belt Community Foundation last
spring to facilitate the Leadership Golden Belt program. The program is
designed to empower participants to understand what adaptive challenges means
contextually. Becker said the course brings their challenges to the table and
helps them overcome obstacles. "We are partnering with the Kansas Leadership concept," said Becker. "We're making it a hybrid with coaching. Coaching helps them bring those concepts down to a level of how to implement them in their personal lives." 
The next Leadership Golden Belt program begins in January and meets on Tuesdays
for seven weeks. 
"No matter if someone is an entrepreneur, stay-at-home mom or a bank executive, the program fits for all of those," said Becker. "It starts with the focus on ourselves and how we manage ourselves through difficult situations and mobilizing people to have a common purpose." 
Registration is $300 per person with scholarships available. Fill out the application at <a href="https://goldenbeltcf.org/leadership/">goldenbeltcf.org</a>.

Developing leaders in the Golden Belt; Leadership program in January

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Fuel prices are affecting virtually everything around the nation. A new type of fuel crisis may be in the works now as U.S. diesel supplies are becoming critically low. Nationwide shortages and price spikes are expected over the next six months, but Barton County Road and Bridge Director Darren Williams said county rates are locked in at previous, lower rates.

"It's very important to get it contracted out," he said. "The past few years we've been doing that, and we've been getting a better price with the futures. It hasn't come back to bite us yet. This year, especially, I don't see the diesel price going down for a while."

The average price for a gallon of diesel nationwide this week was $5.30, up from $4.87 a month ago and $3.63 a year ago. Williams said the Road and Bridge Department used around 68,000 gallons of diesel in 2021, and typically uses about 70,000 gallons. Small increases in price, therefore, can cost the county a lot of money.

Williams said the county has its price locked in with American Plains Co-op through October 2023, but if things get really bad, obtaining diesel could be an issue.

"If there's a shortage of diesel and they can't get it, that means we won't be able to get it," he said. "It could be a long winter if we have a snowstorm and don't have any diesel."

American Plains Co-op Energy Manager Rick Breit remains optimistic about the impact locally. "One advantage we have in this area is we have CHS Refinery at McPherson," he said. "It would basically take an act of war, that type of thing, to shut that place down. We're lucky we have a refinery 60 miles away."

Still, Breit said American Plains Co-op is encouraging customers to keep their tanks on the full side, even with the high prices of fuel. Even with a shortage, American Plains will continue to honor contracts, like the one with Barton County.

"On contracted fuel, that price is locked in, and we'll honor our contracted customers and try to get them fuel because they have a contract," Breit said.

Stocks of diesel and other distillate fuel oils were the lowest in 40 years on Oct. 21. Inventories were down roughly 11 percent from the 10-year average to begin the year, and have steadily declined to 20 percent below the 10-year average in October. With the shortages, diesel prices are now $1.45 per gallon higher than gasoline.

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFuel prices are affecting virtually everything around the nation. A new type of fuel crisis may be in the works now as U.S. diesel supplies are becoming critically low. Nationwide shortages and price spikes are expected over the next six months, but Barton County Road and Bridge Director Darren Williams said county rates are locked in at previous, lower rates."It's very important to get it contracted out," he said. "The past few years we've been doing that, and we've been getting a better price with the futures. It hasn't come back to bite us yet. This year, especially, I don't see the diesel price going down for a while."The average price for a gallon of diesel nationwide this week was $5.30, up from $4.87 a month ago and $3.63 a year ago. Williams said the Road and Bridge Department used around 68,000 gallons of diesel in 2021, and typically uses about 70,000 gallons. Small increases in price, therefore, can cost the county a lot of money.Williams said the county has its price locked in with American Plains Co-op through October 2023, but if things get really bad, obtaining diesel could be an issue."If there's a shortage of diesel and they can't get it, that means we won't be able to get it," he said. "It could be a long winter if we have a snowstorm and don't have any diesel."American Plains Co-op Energy Manager Rick Breit remains optimistic about the impact locally. "One advantage we have in this area is we have CHS Refinery at McPherson," he said. "It would basically take an act of war, that type of thing, to shut that place down. We're lucky we have a refinery 60 miles away."Still, Breit said American Plains Co-op is encouraging customers to keep their tanks on the full side, even with the high prices of fuel. Even with a shortage, American Plains will continue to honor contracts, like the one with Barton County."On contracted fuel, that price is locked in, and we'll honor our contracted customers and try to get them fuel because they have a contract," Breit said.Stocks of diesel and other distillate fuel oils were the lowest in 40 years on Oct. 21. Inventories were down roughly 11 percent from the 10-year average to begin the year, and have steadily declined to 20 percent below the 10-year average in October. With the shortages, diesel prices are now $1.45 per gallon higher than gasoline.

Diesel shortage likely to have some impact to area businesses

10/31 BOOKED: Monty Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Intoxicated Pedestrian, bond set at $500 or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Zackery Jacobs on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Alexis Battle on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>10/31 BOOKED: Monty Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Intoxicated Pedestrian, bond set at $500 or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Zackery Jacobs on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Alexis Battle on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (10/31)

When Larned's Rob Munden is not playing pickleball, he's still thinking about pickleball. Now four-plus years of labor are paying off with Munden's first novel, "Peanut Butter Pickleball and Murder." The established playwright has a logical reason for writing the book.

"The reason I decided to write my first novel is I went on Amazon to look for a novel about pickleball, and I couldn't find one," he said. "I said, ah heck, I'll just write my own. I thought if I can't find a pickleball novel, I'll just write the pickleball novel."

Munden graduated from Hoisington High School, Barton Community College, and Fort Hays State University before settling back in the area in Larned. More than 30 of his plays have been produced or had special readings throughout Kansas, Minnesota, and Florida. Writing a novel, he said, is quite different than writing a play.

"The biggest difference is, with a play, I'm really limited to what I can do on a stage," said Munden. "So what people can see on the stage, and the number of characters, obviously, is limited to what can be put on a stage. Whereas a novel is so expansive, I can put as many characters and people, any place in the world. That's the biggest difference. I thought it would make it easier, but it actually makes it harder. You have a lot more people and places to keep track of during the book."

His first novel is set in Wichita, where a group of pickleball players begins to postulate that a serial killer known as the PB Killer is not actually into peanut butter so much as he is into pickleball. 

Munden chose Wichita because of the large number of professional pickleball players there. He enjoys playing himself, competing in tournaments around Kansas. Earlier this year, he finished second in the Wichita River Fest Tournament in the 50-and-over age group. His book is not only a thriller but a way to promote the growing sport.

"Off and on, four and a half years, it took a lot longer to write a novel than I ever dreamed," he said. "It was a lot of fun, and I really feel like I have a pretty high-quality product, and I'm pretty excited about it."

Munden will be signing copies of "Peanut Butter Pickleball and Murder" at a meet and greet at the Great Bend Public Library on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 4 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667302091389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWhen Larned's Rob Munden is not playing pickleball, he's still thinking about pickleball. Now four-plus years of labor are paying off with Munden's first novel, "Peanut Butter Pickleball and Murder." The established playwright has a logical reason for writing the book."The reason I decided to write my first novel is I went on Amazon to look for a novel about pickleball, and I couldn't find one," he said. "I said, ah heck, I'll just write my own. I thought if I can't find a pickleball novel, I'll just write the pickleball novel."Munden graduated from Hoisington High School, Barton Community College, and Fort Hays State University before settling back in the area in Larned. More than 30 of his plays have been produced or had special readings throughout Kansas, Minnesota, and Florida. Writing a novel, he said, is quite different than writing a play."The biggest difference is, with a play, I'm really limited to what I can do on a stage," said Munden. "So what people can see on the stage, and the number of characters, obviously, is limited to what can be put on a stage. Whereas a novel is so expansive, I can put as many characters and people, any place in the world. That's the biggest difference. I thought it would make it easier, but it actually makes it harder. You have a lot more people and places to keep track of during the book."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1667244111638.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>His first novel is set in Wichita, where a group of pickleball players begins to postulate that a serial killer known as the PB Killer is not actually into peanut butter so much as he is into pickleball. Munden chose Wichita because of the large number of professional pickleball players there. He enjoys playing himself, competing in tournaments around Kansas. Earlier this year, he finished second in the Wichita River Fest Tournament in the 50-and-over age group. His book is not only a thriller but a way to promote the growing sport."Off and on, four and a half years, it took a lot longer to write a novel than I ever dreamed," he said. "It was a lot of fun, and I really feel like I have a pretty high-quality product, and I'm pretty excited about it."Munden will be signing copies of "Peanut Butter Pickleball and Murder" at a meet and greet at the Great Bend Public Library on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 4 p.m.

Larned writer chooses pickleball murder-mystery for debut novel

Today Sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 53. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Wednesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 57. Breezy, with a south wind around 23 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a south wind 21 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Thursday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Friday Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Today Sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 53. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Wednesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 57. Breezy, with a south wind around 23 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a south wind 21 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Thursday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.Friday Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36.Saturday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 58.Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 63.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.Monday Sunny, with a high near 67.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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