By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post&nbsp;

For the past nine Labor Day weekends in Hoisington, Ron VanNess strung together groups of meat enthusiasts for Bubba's BBQ Cookoff. VanNess passed away last fall, putting the event's future into question. The Hoisington Chamber of Commerce stepped up and will now host its first BBQ Championship as part of the Labor Day festivities on Sept. 3.

"We're hoping this is going to become a known place to go for a barbecue championship," said Hoisington Chamber Director Karen Baldyga. "We're planning on using the Kansas City Barbecue Society Rules. We're hoping as the years go on, it just grows bigger and bigger. As Labor Day goes on through the years, we're always looking for events that will draw more people here. We have the Demolition Derby, the street dance, and our parade, and now we're hoping this barbecue will be another big event over this weekend."

Big cash payouts will make the chamber version of a cookoff more lucrative for teams. The grand champion will receive $1,000, and a reserve grand champion will be awarded $500. With prize going money to the top-five finishers in each meat category, a total of $3,100 will be paid out to competitors.

"We've been able to get some sponsorships and we're hoping this is just the beginning," Baldyga said, "and that every year our payout for cash prizes only gets higher and higher."

There is a registration fee of $125 for the four barbecue meat categories of chicken, pork ribs, pork butt, and beef brisket. Competition is limited to the first 18 teams on a first-come, first-serve basis. Only teams with entries in all four meat categories will be considered for the grand champion and reserve grand champion prizes.

Baldyga said there could be as many as 18 judges. Unfortunately for barbecue lovers, the sampling will end there.

"It's a lot for these guys to come all this way and cook all night long," said Baldyga. "It tends to put a lot of stress on them when they have to do samples. But our other vendors will be open during that time so we'll have some barbecue there as well. People will be able to get a bite to eat, walk around, and see what these guys are doing."

Find a complete list of rules for the cookoff and an online registration form by <a href="https://www.hoisingtonkansas.com/bbqchampionship?fbclid=IwAR38wwW1dHeHSLMZozSpzdrgbmAiddYeeTiWST98fl5ZN-FDK3fWmjEn9L0">CLICKING HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658860487814.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post&nbsp;For the past nine Labor Day weekends in Hoisington, Ron VanNess strung together groups of meat enthusiasts for Bubba's BBQ Cookoff. VanNess passed away last fall, putting the event's future into question. The Hoisington Chamber of Commerce stepped up and will now host its first BBQ Championship as part of the Labor Day festivities on Sept. 3."We're hoping this is going to become a known place to go for a barbecue championship," said Hoisington Chamber Director Karen Baldyga. "We're planning on using the Kansas City Barbecue Society Rules. We're hoping as the years go on, it just grows bigger and bigger. As Labor Day goes on through the years, we're always looking for events that will draw more people here. We have the Demolition Derby, the street dance, and our parade, and now we're hoping this barbecue will be another big event over this weekend."Big cash payouts will make the chamber version of a cookoff more lucrative for teams. The grand champion will receive $1,000, and a reserve grand champion will be awarded $500. With prize going money to the top-five finishers in each meat category, a total of $3,100 will be paid out to competitors."We've been able to get some sponsorships and we're hoping this is just the beginning," Baldyga said, "and that every year our payout for cash prizes only gets higher and higher."There is a registration fee of $125 for the four barbecue meat categories of chicken, pork ribs, pork butt, and beef brisket. Competition is limited to the first 18 teams on a first-come, first-serve basis. Only teams with entries in all four meat categories will be considered for the grand champion and reserve grand champion prizes.Baldyga said there could be as many as 18 judges. Unfortunately for barbecue lovers, the sampling will end there."It's a lot for these guys to come all this way and cook all night long," said Baldyga. "It tends to put a lot of stress on them when they have to do samples. But our other vendors will be open during that time so we'll have some barbecue there as well. People will be able to get a bite to eat, walk around, and see what these guys are doing."Find a complete list of rules for the cookoff and an online registration form by <a href="https://www.hoisingtonkansas.com/bbqchampionship?fbclid=IwAR38wwW1dHeHSLMZozSpzdrgbmAiddYeeTiWST98fl5ZN-FDK3fWmjEn9L0">CLICKING HERE</a>.

Hoisington Chamber ups the ante for Labor Day BBQ cookoff

Mic Huddleston is going to get more time, as he put it, “for goofin’ around with old cars, Army trucks, but especially grandkids.”

That’s what Mic, the Great Bend Area Supervisor, shared about his upcoming plans. After 32 years of devoted service with KDOT, he is retiring effective Aug. 5.

In those 32 years, Mic started in Lyons, then worked as a Great Bend mechanic’s helper. He later worked in various Equipment Operator jobs in La Crosse and Great Bend, then as an Equipment Mechanic. After a series of Equipment Operator promotions, he worked his way to Great Bend Subarea Supervisor and, lastly, Great Bend Area Crew Supervisor. He’s had that last position since 2013.

“I’ve enjoyed every moment and have no regrets,” Mic said.

So, about those old cars and Army trucks: Mic said he’s had a 1965 Mustang “that I’ve goofed around with since high school.” He and his father have worked on or restored “retro rods” and race cars. Mic is a member of a group that rebuilds World War II military vehicles. Their “newest,” he said, is a 1944 model.

He and his wife, Sandy, plan to remain in Barton County. They have a “cool old house,” built in 1906, “out in the country,” he said. “I plan to be buried in my old Mustang in the back yard -- I don’t want to move anymore.”

He and Sandy have three children: Cody, Kade and Kelsie. And three grandchildren: Charley Rose, Kason and Kouper.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658849359775.jpeg" alt="Mic Huddleston is retiring from KDOT after 32 years." />
 <figcaption>Mic Huddleston is retiring from KDOT after 32 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>Mic Huddleston is going to get more time, as he put it, “for goofin’ around with old cars, Army trucks, but especially grandkids.”That’s what Mic, the Great Bend Area Supervisor, shared about his upcoming plans. After 32 years of devoted service with KDOT, he is retiring effective Aug. 5.In those 32 years, Mic started in Lyons, then worked as a Great Bend mechanic’s helper. He later worked in various Equipment Operator jobs in La Crosse and Great Bend, then as an Equipment Mechanic. After a series of Equipment Operator promotions, he worked his way to Great Bend Subarea Supervisor and, lastly, Great Bend Area Crew Supervisor. He’s had that last position since 2013.“I’ve enjoyed every moment and have no regrets,” Mic said.So, about those old cars and Army trucks: Mic said he’s had a 1965 Mustang “that I’ve goofed around with since high school.” He and his father have worked on or restored “retro rods” and race cars. Mic is a member of a group that rebuilds World War II military vehicles. Their “newest,” he said, is a 1944 model.He and his wife, Sandy, plan to remain in Barton County. They have a “cool old house,” built in 1906, “out in the country,” he said. “I plan to be buried in my old Mustang in the back yard -- I don’t want to move anymore.”He and Sandy have three children: Cody, Kade and Kelsie. And three grandchildren: Charley Rose, Kason and Kouper.

Great Bend Area Supervisor Mic Huddleston retiring from KDOT

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Sometimes the American court system takes a while to reach a conclusion. That was the case in a recent homicide conviction for Barton County Attorney Levi Morris. Freddie Alec Thomas shot and killed Jeremy Saldana on Sept. 11, 2015. It was not until June of this year that Thomas, now 55 years of age, was convicted of the crime. 

"We're sitting there proceeding in a jury trial in June of 2022 for a September 2015 case," said Morris. "Even the jurors were asking why did it take this long? It wasn't until after it was done that we could tell them why."

On that Friday evening in 2015, after an altercation in the front yard of a Great Bend residence, Thomas shot the 39-year-old Saldana three times. Doug Matthews, the Barton County attorney at the time of the shooting, filed first-degree murder charges against Thomas five days after the incident. Thomas claimed self-defense. District Court Judge Ron Svaty, who has since retired, ruled in Thomas' favor. That's when the case went on pause locally.

"This defendent in this particular case said, 'Hey, you guys can't prosecute me. This was self-defense,'" Morris said. "A hearing was held in 2016 and a judge agreed. The state of Kansas didn't like that result so the county attorney at the time appealed it. It goes to the Kansas Court of Appeals, and they said it was an improper dismissal, this case should proceed to a jury trial. The Kansas Supreme Court was asked to review it and they made the same conclusion, that a jury should hear this case. Those things each take a couple of years."

The case was ultimately remanded back to Barton County District Court for a jury trial. Originally scheduled for 10 days, the trial lasted eight. At the end, jurors had one of several options: first-degree murder, second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, not guilty, or not guilty by self-defense.

The jury returned with a conviction of one count of voluntary manslaughter on June 23. Sentencing for the case has been scheduled for Aug. 22.

"You realize there are situations where it is unjust for someone to go to prison for the length of time as if they had committed a vicious homicide," Morris said. "But it's equally unjust for that person to go free when they took another person's life and it wasn't just. Voluntary manslaughter is that compromise. It is essentially what you can be convicted of when the jury feels you believed it was self-defense, you honestly thought so, but it wasn't."

&nbsp;After each trial, attorneys and judges speak and take questions from the jurors. "This is our best opportunity for a performance review," Morris said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602791058568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSometimes the American court system takes a while to reach a conclusion. That was the case in a recent homicide conviction for Barton County Attorney Levi Morris. Freddie Alec Thomas shot and killed Jeremy Saldana on Sept. 11, 2015. It was not until June of this year that Thomas, now 55 years of age, was convicted of the crime. "We're sitting there proceeding in a jury trial in June of 2022 for a September 2015 case," said Morris. "Even the jurors were asking why did it take this long? It wasn't until after it was done that we could tell them why."On that Friday evening in 2015, after an altercation in the front yard of a Great Bend residence, Thomas shot the 39-year-old Saldana three times. Doug Matthews, the Barton County attorney at the time of the shooting, filed first-degree murder charges against Thomas five days after the incident. Thomas claimed self-defense. District Court Judge Ron Svaty, who has since retired, ruled in Thomas' favor. That's when the case went on pause locally."This defendent in this particular case said, 'Hey, you guys can't prosecute me. This was self-defense,'" Morris said. "A hearing was held in 2016 and a judge agreed. The state of Kansas didn't like that result so the county attorney at the time appealed it. It goes to the Kansas Court of Appeals, and they said it was an improper dismissal, this case should proceed to a jury trial. The Kansas Supreme Court was asked to review it and they made the same conclusion, that a jury should hear this case. Those things each take a couple of years."The case was ultimately remanded back to Barton County District Court for a jury trial. Originally scheduled for 10 days, the trial lasted eight. At the end, jurors had one of several options: first-degree murder, second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, not guilty, or not guilty by self-defense.The jury returned with a conviction of one count of voluntary manslaughter on June 23. Sentencing for the case has been scheduled for Aug. 22."You realize there are situations where it is unjust for someone to go to prison for the length of time as if they had committed a vicious homicide," Morris said. "But it's equally unjust for that person to go free when they took another person's life and it wasn't just. Voluntary manslaughter is that compromise. It is essentially what you can be convicted of when the jury feels you believed it was self-defense, you honestly thought so, but it wasn't."&nbsp;After each trial, attorneys and judges speak and take questions from the jurors. "This is our best opportunity for a performance review," Morris said.

Barton County manslaughter conviction seven years in the making

The hot topic at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting was not even on the printed agenda. To begin the meeting, the commission approved a new discussion item pertaining to the proposed Brynwood subdivision development directly east of the University of Kansas Health System-Great Bend Campus and south of Walmart. 

Conversation ultimately turned to the county's responsibility in the project. County Engineer Barry McManaman and Environmental Manager and Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham both spoke about possible county involvement and explained the difference between the proposed Brynwood subdivision and previous developments.

"It just seems like this thing got out of hand as far as what the county's responsibilities are," said Commissioner Kirby Krier. "The responsibilities are we sign off on a platte for a subdivision, and that's it. 

"I appreciate all this information," Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson said. "This is stuff we needed to know. I'm not sure why we're even involved with it at this point, though, because it sounds like it's completely a city decision."

Goreham agreed it is a city decision, but because of the location of the subdivision and its proximity to the city of Great Bend, several entities were involved in the discussion. Hutchinson stated whether or not the city decides to annex the land in question, the commission still may not be involved.

"This is a great opportunity for the public to understand the process and for all the different entities that are involved right now to understand the pieces of the puzzle," Goreham said. "We all have to work together or it doesn't happen."

Commission Jennifer Schartz agreed that, even if the county has no vote in the matter, the governing body could still be part of the conversation.

"I'd agree with you, Jennifer," said Commissioner Jon Prescott. "The communities, the residents, our constituents, have said we need housing. So I'm pretty excited this could be a housing solution for our community. We need to walk very carefully."

Then the conversation warmed up as Prescott spoke of the city's study on a lift station to determine if the sewer system could handle a new subdivision. He asked the commission if the city decides not to annex, would the county get involved to keep the development moving forward.

"Jon, I appreciate your comment about how carefully we need to walk when dealing with the city, but I've received multiple phone calls from city council members that said you did exactly the opposite of that when you were at their meeting," Hutchinson said. "I'm very disappointed with your actions."

Prescott is the former CEO of Sunflower Diversified Services. Phase one of the Brynwood subdivision, referred to as Cambridge Park, includes a 28-unit, low-income project that would give Sunflower first rights to rent the apartments for their clients. Sunflower helps children and adults with developmental disabilities. Prescott presented information, on behalf of Sunflower, at the Great Bend City Council work session July 18 discussing the project.

Housing Opportunities, Inc. (HOI) purchased the 24 acres of land from a group of local doctors that currently sits out of city limits. Receiving funds and tax credits from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, HOI recognized the tax rebate program is more beneficial to stay within the county and not be annexed into Great Bend city limits, but there is a need to tap into city utilities.

Schartz closed the conversation Wednesday by stating because of the complexities of the subdivision lying within Great Bend's three-mile zoning radius, further exploration may be needed.

"One of the things we need to look at is, Great Bend has not grown for a long time," she said. "I think that if we are on the edge of some really great things with economic development, we need to look at a bigger plan. Because the county surrounds Great Bend, we have a pony in the race. I think it would be a good idea, for us, at some point, to get a committee together to look at how Great Bend wants to expand, and the need to do so, and what the county can partner with in making that happen."

Other items addressed in the conversation included the size of each parcel and the impact that would have on drilling water wells and septic tanks.  

"Not one parcel or platted piece of property will be 3.0 acres or larger," Goreham said. "So what this means is, if this stays in the unincorporated area of the county, no water well can ever be issued on these parcels for irrigation."

McManaman also explained the difference between the dirt roads at the Martin Meadows subdivision and the proposed paved streets in the Brynwood subdivision, and how that might impact the township.

"That's probably a tough chore for a township to maintain that, budget-wise or they probably don't have the manpower and equipment to do it themselves," he said. 

"You'd think concrete streets are going to last 20 or 30 years, but look at the blowup they had south of the middle school a couple of weeks ago. You can go in and construct these concrete streets and a year from now we have a heat wave and it buckles. There needs to be some involvement with the township, in my opinion, in these discussions. If we're ultimately going to say they're a township responsibility, they need to be included."

Listen to the full conversation from Wednesday's meeting below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658940263368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe hot topic at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting was not even on the printed agenda. To begin the meeting, the commission approved a new discussion item pertaining to the proposed Brynwood subdivision development directly east of the University of Kansas Health System-Great Bend Campus and south of Walmart. Conversation ultimately turned to the county's responsibility in the project. County Engineer Barry McManaman and Environmental Manager and Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham both spoke about possible county involvement and explained the difference between the proposed Brynwood subdivision and previous developments."It just seems like this thing got out of hand as far as what the county's responsibilities are," said Commissioner Kirby Krier. "The responsibilities are we sign off on a platte for a subdivision, and that's it. "I appreciate all this information," Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson said. "This is stuff we needed to know. I'm not sure why we're even involved with it at this point, though, because it sounds like it's completely a city decision."Goreham agreed it is a city decision, but because of the location of the subdivision and its proximity to the city of Great Bend, several entities were involved in the discussion. Hutchinson stated whether or not the city decides to annex the land in question, the commission still may not be involved."This is a great opportunity for the public to understand the process and for all the different entities that are involved right now to understand the pieces of the puzzle," Goreham said. "We all have to work together or it doesn't happen."Commission Jennifer Schartz agreed that, even if the county has no vote in the matter, the governing body could still be part of the conversation."I'd agree with you, Jennifer," said Commissioner Jon Prescott. "The communities, the residents, our constituents, have said we need housing. So I'm pretty excited this could be a housing solution for our community. We need to walk very carefully."Then the conversation warmed up as Prescott spoke of the city's study on a lift station to determine if the sewer system could handle a new subdivision. He asked the commission if the city decides not to annex, would the county get involved to keep the development moving forward."Jon, I appreciate your comment about how carefully we need to walk when dealing with the city, but I've received multiple phone calls from city council members that said you did exactly the opposite of that when you were at their meeting," Hutchinson said. "I'm very disappointed with your actions."Prescott is the former CEO of Sunflower Diversified Services. Phase one of the Brynwood subdivision, referred to as Cambridge Park, includes a 28-unit, low-income project that would give Sunflower first rights to rent the apartments for their clients. Sunflower helps children and adults with developmental disabilities. Prescott presented information, on behalf of Sunflower, at the Great Bend City Council work session July 18 discussing the project.Housing Opportunities, Inc. (HOI) purchased the 24 acres of land from a group of local doctors that currently sits out of city limits. Receiving funds and tax credits from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, HOI recognized the tax rebate program is more beneficial to stay within the county and not be annexed into Great Bend city limits, but there is a need to tap into city utilities.Schartz closed the conversation Wednesday by stating because of the complexities of the subdivision lying within Great Bend's three-mile zoning radius, further exploration may be needed."One of the things we need to look at is, Great Bend has not grown for a long time," she said. "I think that if we are on the edge of some really great things with economic development, we need to look at a bigger plan. Because the county surrounds Great Bend, we have a pony in the race. I think it would be a good idea, for us, at some point, to get a committee together to look at how Great Bend wants to expand, and the need to do so, and what the county can partner with in making that happen."Other items addressed in the conversation included the size of each parcel and the impact that would have on drilling water wells and septic tanks. "Not one parcel or platted piece of property will be 3.0 acres or larger," Goreham said. "So what this means is, if this stays in the unincorporated area of the county, no water well can ever be issued on these parcels for irrigation."McManaman also explained the difference between the dirt roads at the Martin Meadows subdivision and the proposed paved streets in the Brynwood subdivision, and how that might impact the township."That's probably a tough chore for a township to maintain that, budget-wise or they probably don't have the manpower and equipment to do it themselves," he said. "You'd think concrete streets are going to last 20 or 30 years, but look at the blowup they had south of the middle school a couple of weeks ago. You can go in and construct these concrete streets and a year from now we have a heat wave and it buckles. There needs to be some involvement with the township, in my opinion, in these discussions. If we're ultimately going to say they're a township responsibility, they need to be included."Listen to the full conversation from Wednesday's meeting below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/uksfwq0k/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

🎧Barton Commission talks warm about new subdivision

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Over the last year, Barton Community College has worked to create a
partnership with Pratt Community College to provide RN (Registered Nurse) nursing curriculum to
Pratt students. 
Pratt students would take the first year of LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
courses in Pratt and potentially finish the associate’s degree, or two-year RN
program, through Barton. The inaugural RN class between the colleges will begin
this August. 
This past spring, Pratt had a faculty resignation and the director of nursing
had health problems. The Pratt college made the decision to suspend their
nursing program.

Barton Director of Nursing Ranae Skelton said rather than pull
the plug completely on their nursing program, Pratt reached out to Barton to
provide both the LPN and RN coursework to nursing students in Pratt. 
"Our nursing program is a one-plus-one," said Skelton. "Everybody comes in at the LPN level. Once they complete the LPN level, they can apply to the RN year, or the second year, associate degree year. We went through this once to do the associate degree program in Pratt. Now they've asked us to do the LPN also." 
Skelton said the Great Bend campus can provide the LPN coursework to 55
students and the satellite program in Pratt will potentially add an additional 30. 
"The format would be similar to what we're doing with the associate degree program," said Skelton. "There would be synchronized Zoom classes for delivery. There will be instructors down there. We plan to do clinicals like we do with our LPNs here in Great Bend." 
Barton and Pratt still need approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing. If
approved, the LPN partnership would begin in the fall of 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934594696.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostOver the last year, Barton Community College has worked to create a
partnership with Pratt Community College to provide RN (Registered Nurse) nursing curriculum to
Pratt students. 
Pratt students would take the first year of LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
courses in Pratt and potentially finish the associate’s degree, or two-year RN
program, through Barton. The inaugural RN class between the colleges will begin
this August. 
This past spring, Pratt had a faculty resignation and the director of nursing
had health problems. The Pratt college made the decision to suspend their
nursing program. Barton Director of Nursing Ranae Skelton said rather than pull
the plug completely on their nursing program, Pratt reached out to Barton to
provide both the LPN and RN coursework to nursing students in Pratt. 
"Our nursing program is a one-plus-one," said Skelton. "Everybody comes in at the LPN level. Once they complete the LPN level, they can apply to the RN year, or the second year, associate degree year. We went through this once to do the associate degree program in Pratt. Now they've asked us to do the LPN also." 
Skelton said the Great Bend campus can provide the LPN coursework to 55
students and the satellite program in Pratt will potentially add an additional 30. 
"The format would be similar to what we're doing with the associate degree program," said Skelton. "There would be synchronized Zoom classes for delivery. There will be instructors down there. We plan to do clinicals like we do with our LPNs here in Great Bend." 
Barton and Pratt still need approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing. If
approved, the LPN partnership would begin in the fall of 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton to provide full nursing program to Pratt students

Matthew Gerritzen represents the youngest of any of the candidates
running for a seat on the Barton County Commission this year. Graduating from
Hoisington High School in 2000, Gerritzen is seeking a position to represent
District 1 on the commission. 

Gerritzen was part of the candidate forum last
week hosted by the League of Women Voters Great Bend – Barton County. 
"You'll see a running demographic that runs for county commissioner," said Gerritzen. "You'll see a lot of CEOs, business owners, a president of every organization. I don't hold those demographics. I am part of that 'minority' majority of Barton County. I'm just an hourly-wage worker in Barton County. That is a voice that has not really been represented on the commission over the years." 
When discussing taxation, Gerritzen said slashing taxes is not always the
answer, but making sure the county is fiscally responsible with the dollars
coming in is necessary. 
"Not everybody needs new," said Gerritzen. "Now, emergency vehicles...yes. For reliability purposes, new is great. But, there are a lot of entities around the county that have brand new vehicles, brand new equipment, all the time. We can make that last a little bit longer with the right maintenance. Make those expenditures go a little further." 
Linda Moeder, Duane Reif and Jeffery Donecker are also running for the District
1 position. Eagle Radio has or will feature each candidate this week. 
You can view the entire candidate forum by clicking <a href="https://fb.watch/eqHt8QRVML/">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fdd05350-3080-4bb4-b43f-82058f239123">Barton County Commission election preview – Jeffery Donecker</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658516104398.png" alt="Matthew Gerritzen (standing) is running for the District 1 seat on the Barton County Commission.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Gerritzen (standing) is running for the District 1 seat on the Barton County Commission.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostMatthew Gerritzen represents the youngest of any of the candidates
running for a seat on the Barton County Commission this year. Graduating from
Hoisington High School in 2000, Gerritzen is seeking a position to represent
District 1 on the commission. Gerritzen was part of the candidate forum last
week hosted by the League of Women Voters Great Bend – Barton County. 
"You'll see a running demographic that runs for county commissioner," said Gerritzen. "You'll see a lot of CEOs, business owners, a president of every organization. I don't hold those demographics. I am part of that 'minority' majority of Barton County. I'm just an hourly-wage worker in Barton County. That is a voice that has not really been represented on the commission over the years." 
When discussing taxation, Gerritzen said slashing taxes is not always the
answer, but making sure the county is fiscally responsible with the dollars
coming in is necessary. 
"Not everybody needs new," said Gerritzen. "Now, emergency vehicles...yes. For reliability purposes, new is great. But, there are a lot of entities around the county that have brand new vehicles, brand new equipment, all the time. We can make that last a little bit longer with the right maintenance. Make those expenditures go a little further." 
Linda Moeder, Duane Reif and Jeffery Donecker are also running for the District
1 position. Eagle Radio has or will feature each candidate this week. 
You can view the entire candidate forum by clicking <a href="https://fb.watch/eqHt8QRVML/">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fdd05350-3080-4bb4-b43f-82058f239123">Barton County Commission election preview – Jeffery Donecker</a>

Barton County Commission election preview – Matthew Gerritzen

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/26) 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 12:02 a.m. a narcotics violation was reported at 323 Marla Street. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 6:53 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 60 Avenue &amp; NE 220 Road. 
 
At 8:59 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 30 Avenue &amp; NE 40 Road. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 10:13 a.m. a report of breathing problems was made at 252 NE 20 Road. 
 
Fire 
 
At 4:48 p.m. a fire was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 170 Road. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (7/26)

At 7:42 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 1600 block of Morton Street.

At 9:03 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1220 1/2 Jefferson Street.

At 10:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 2200 block of McCormick.

At 5:23 p.m. a theft of a wallet was reported at 1614 Lakin Avenue.

At 7:13 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5210 10th Street.

At 7:20 p.m. an accident was reported at 3410 10th Street.

At 9:42 p.m. an overdose/poisoning was reported at 1227 281 Bypass.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/26) 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 12:02 a.m. a narcotics violation was reported at 323 Marla Street. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 6:53 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 60 Avenue &amp; NE 220 Road. 
 
At 8:59 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 30 Avenue &amp; NE 40 Road. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 10:13 a.m. a report of breathing problems was made at 252 NE 20 Road. 
 
Fire 
 
At 4:48 p.m. a fire was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 170 Road. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (7/26)Animal ComplaintAt 7:42 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 1600 block of Morton Street.Breathing ProblemsAt 9:03 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1220 1/2 Jefferson Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 2200 block of McCormick.TheftAt 5:23 p.m. a theft of a wallet was reported at 1614 Lakin Avenue.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 7:13 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5210 10th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:20 p.m. an accident was reported at 3410 10th Street.Overdose / PoisoningAt 9:42 p.m. an overdose/poisoning was reported at 1227 281 Bypass.

Cop Shop (7/26)

7/26 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery on LEO, Obstruction, Disorderly Conduct, and Contempt of Court, no bond set.

BOOKED: Brandon Emerson on Montgomery County District Court warrant and KDOC warrant, both for Parole Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Alexandra Saldana on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $580.00 cash only.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery on LEO, Obstruction, Disorderly Conduct, and Contempt of Court, to Juvenile Intake.

RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Alexandra Saldana on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a cash bond of $580.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/26 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery on LEO, Obstruction, Disorderly Conduct, and Contempt of Court, no bond set.BOOKED: Brandon Emerson on Montgomery County District Court warrant and KDOC warrant, both for Parole Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Alexandra Saldana on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $580.00 cash only.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Battery on LEO, Obstruction, Disorderly Conduct, and Contempt of Court, to Juvenile Intake.RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Alexandra Saldana on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a cash bond of $580.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (7/26)

In an effort to continue the tradition of American Legion Baseball in
the Great Bend area and for an established state tournament, the Great Bend
Bombers baseball organization teamed up with Legion Post 180 to field a
15-and-under team. 
In their collaboration, the Great Bend Braves will host this year’s Kansas
American Legion Junior “A” State Tournament. The Braves begin pool play Wednesday, July 27 at 8:30 p.m. against Topeka at the Great Bend Sports Complex. 
Landon Sciacca, Chris Umphres and Zach Kaiser have split up coaching duties
this summer for the Great Bend Bombers schedule and the Legion Braves schedule.&nbsp; 
"We haven't hosted in a while," said Sciacca. "I think it was 2016. It's going to be fun. Teams play one game a day, so the teams that come here get a chance to do whatever they want to do around the city. It's good for the city and community." 
The tournament will consist of Great Bend and seven other teams from around the
state including Topeka, Marysville, Clay Center, Newton, Iola, Pittsburg and Overbrook.
 
The Great Bend Bombers have a record of 28-3, while the Braves are 9-9-1. 
"We're playing midweek for the Braves schedule, Tuesday and Wednesday, and then a lot of our tournaments for the Bombers begin on Thursday. It's a lot of baseball, but we've managed it well. The guys have seen a variety of competition. Those midweek games, we've played older kids." 
Along with Wednesday’s game, Great Bend will play at 12:30 p.m. Thursday and 6
p.m. on Friday. The top four teams from pool play will advance to Saturday’s
single-elimination tournament. 
The Larned American Legion Baseball team qualified for the Senior AA-AAA State
Tournament. Larned plays in Topeka at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 27 against Hiawatha to begin
their pool play.&nbsp; &nbsp;

See both tournament schedules/brackets below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658864987395.jpeg" alt="The Great Bend Bombers / Great Bend Braves will host the American Legion "A" State Tournament July 27-30 at the Great Bend Sports Complex." />
 <figcaption>The Great Bend Bombers / Great Bend Braves will host the American Legion "A" State Tournament July 27-30 at the Great Bend Sports Complex.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn an effort to continue the tradition of American Legion Baseball in
the Great Bend area and for an established state tournament, the Great Bend
Bombers baseball organization teamed up with Legion Post 180 to field a
15-and-under team. 
In their collaboration, the Great Bend Braves will host this year’s Kansas
American Legion Junior “A” State Tournament. The Braves begin pool play Wednesday, July 27 at 8:30 p.m. against Topeka at the Great Bend Sports Complex. 
Landon Sciacca, Chris Umphres and Zach Kaiser have split up coaching duties
this summer for the Great Bend Bombers schedule and the Legion Braves schedule.&nbsp; 
"We haven't hosted in a while," said Sciacca. "I think it was 2016. It's going to be fun. Teams play one game a day, so the teams that come here get a chance to do whatever they want to do around the city. It's good for the city and community." 
The tournament will consist of Great Bend and seven other teams from around the
state including Topeka, Marysville, Clay Center, Newton, Iola, Pittsburg and Overbrook.
 
The Great Bend Bombers have a record of 28-3, while the Braves are 9-9-1. 
"We're playing midweek for the Braves schedule, Tuesday and Wednesday, and then a lot of our tournaments for the Bombers begin on Thursday. It's a lot of baseball, but we've managed it well. The guys have seen a variety of competition. Those midweek games, we've played older kids." 
Along with Wednesday’s game, Great Bend will play at 12:30 p.m. Thursday and 6
p.m. on Friday. The top four teams from pool play will advance to Saturday’s
single-elimination tournament. 
The Larned American Legion Baseball team qualified for the Senior AA-AAA State
Tournament. Larned plays in Topeka at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 27 against Hiawatha to begin
their pool play.&nbsp; &nbsp;See both tournament schedules/brackets below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658865623813.png" alt="2022 "A" State Tournament in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>2022 "A" State Tournament in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>---<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658865802059.png" alt="2022 "AA-AAA" State Tournament in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>2022 "AA-AAA" State Tournament in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend getting to host State Legion tournament (BRACKET)

Today A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming northeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.

Tonight A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.

Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Northeast wind 7 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. East northeast wind 5 to 9 mph.

Friday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 75. Light east wind becoming east southeast 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Saturday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86.

Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Monday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 96.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming northeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.Tonight A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Northeast wind 7 to 10 mph.Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. East northeast wind 5 to 9 mph.Friday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 75. Light east wind becoming east southeast 5 to 10 mph in the morning.Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.Saturday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.Sunday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86.Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Monday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 96.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's Weather

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

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Agenda Meeting July 27 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the July 13, 2022, and the July 20, 2022, Regular Meetings are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. CITY OF ELLINWOOD: Water and Wastewater Improvements: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Komarek, Ellinwood City Administrator, will provide details. For some time, the City of Ellinwood has worked to develop a water and wastewater improvement project. Included in the project are both the new hospital and new housing area. As quotes are currently being accepted for needed materials, the City will ask that the County provide financial assistance.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COMMUNICATIONS: Agreements Transferring Radio Repeaters to the Cities of Claflin and Ellinwood: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Dena Popp, 911 Director, will provide details. As Barton County Communications continues its transition to 800 megahertz, the Claflin and Ellinwood repeaters are no longer needed. It is suggested that the UHF TAC 11 and 18 be transferred to the Cities for their utility and public works departments. Under the proposed agreements, the Cities would be responsible for the transfer of the repeaters and utilities, if any, and assume all licensing, maintenance and other costs.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EMERGENCY VEHICLE PERMIT: Roger Krier, Operating a 2000 Ford Excursion: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Kansas statutes allow the Commission to designate an authorized emergency vehicle. Roger Krier, a reserve officer with the Sheriff’s Office, completed an application for a 2000 Ford Excursion to be used for assisting the Sheriff’s Office with haz-mat calls within Barton County when business equipment is in use. Sheriff Brian Bellendir recommends that the Commission approve the permit for a five-year period.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The following appointments have been scheduled: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Grant Administration for Cities of the 2nd and 3rd Class – Sara Hayden, Great Bend Economic Development. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 10:30 a.m. – Personnel Discussion – Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 10:45 a.m. – Personnel Discussion – Jim Jordan, County Treasurer. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 11:00 a.m. – Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 1:30 p.m. – Tour of the CUNA Building at 24th and 281 Byway, Great Bend. After touring the building, the Commission will drive 10th Street extended and Airport Road to view the work done by the County’s Road and Bridge Department. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 3:30 p.m. – Grant Writing Parameters – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director; Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director; and Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 4:00 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Kirby Krier is scheduled for July 28, 2022.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 3, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597346058812.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3yIwHKh. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERSAgenda Meeting July 27 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the July 13, 2022, and the July 20, 2022, Regular Meetings are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. CITY OF ELLINWOOD: Water and Wastewater Improvements: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Komarek, Ellinwood City Administrator, will provide details. For some time, the City of Ellinwood has worked to develop a water and wastewater improvement project. Included in the project are both the new hospital and new housing area. As quotes are currently being accepted for needed materials, the City will ask that the County provide financial assistance.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COMMUNICATIONS: Agreements Transferring Radio Repeaters to the Cities of Claflin and Ellinwood: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Dena Popp, 911 Director, will provide details. As Barton County Communications continues its transition to 800 megahertz, the Claflin and Ellinwood repeaters are no longer needed. It is suggested that the UHF TAC 11 and 18 be transferred to the Cities for their utility and public works departments. Under the proposed agreements, the Cities would be responsible for the transfer of the repeaters and utilities, if any, and assume all licensing, maintenance and other costs.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EMERGENCY VEHICLE PERMIT: Roger Krier, Operating a 2000 Ford Excursion: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Kansas statutes allow the Commission to designate an authorized emergency vehicle. Roger Krier, a reserve officer with the Sheriff’s Office, completed an application for a 2000 Ford Excursion to be used for assisting the Sheriff’s Office with haz-mat calls within Barton County when business equipment is in use. Sheriff Brian Bellendir recommends that the Commission approve the permit for a five-year period.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The following appointments have been scheduled: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Grant Administration for Cities of the 2nd and 3rd Class – Sara Hayden, Great Bend Economic Development. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 10:30 a.m. – Personnel Discussion – Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 10:45 a.m. – Personnel Discussion – Jim Jordan, County Treasurer. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 11:00 a.m. – Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 1:30 p.m. – Tour of the CUNA Building at 24th and 281 Byway, Great Bend. After touring the building, the Commission will drive 10th Street extended and Airport Road to view the work done by the County’s Road and Bridge Department. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 3:30 p.m. – Grant Writing Parameters – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director; Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director; and Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 4:00 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, Director of Operations.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Kirby Krier is scheduled for July 28, 2022.V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 3, 2022.VI. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (7/27)

In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?

There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.

Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.

Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.

Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.

So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?

The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.

Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.

In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658841456977.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Can dry soils affect anhydrous ammonia applications in Kansas?

A family from Barton County has been named one of the Kansas Farm Bureau Families of the Year.

Rick and Sharon Hiss were the honorees from Barton County.

The full list of recipients is below.

2022 Farm Family Recipients Chad and Cassondra Basinger – Reno County Brance and Natalie Boone&nbsp;– Greenwood County Dallas and Leah Fuller –&nbsp;&nbsp;Mitchell County Rick and Sharon Hiss&nbsp;–&nbsp;Barton County Garrett and Randee Holaday&nbsp;–&nbsp;Jackson County Garrett and Caley Love&nbsp;–&nbsp;Gray County Jesse and Anna Luna – Rooks County Kent and Rebecca Ott&nbsp;–&nbsp;Sedgwick County Ryan and Ashley Stainbrook&nbsp;–&nbsp;Linn County Lacey and Mark Wray&nbsp;–&nbsp;Franklin County

The 10 Kansas Farm Family of the Year Awards (one per Kansas Farm Bureau district) will be presented at the Kansas Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Manhattan, Kan. Honorees will receive special recognition, a commemorative gift and an invite for immediate family to the recognition banquet.

The purpose of the award is to recognize outstanding Farm Bureau families who have distinguished themselves through participation in Farm Bureau programs and leadership, family activities, community and civic service, as well as displaying good farm operation management.

The award is an opportunity to recognize 105 farm families (single or extended) at the county level and 10 (one per Kansas Farm Bureau district) farm families (single or extended) at the state level. Applicants must be actively participating in production agriculture and selected by the county Farm Bureau. Current Farm Bureau board members, their families and Farm Bureau staff members are not eligible.

Each county Farm Bureau is encouraged to annually select a deserving family and honor them at the county annual meeting or similar event. Each county Farm Bureau may submit their winning family application for one of the 10 Kansas Farm Family of the Year awards to Kansas Farm Bureau.

Each county will receive an attractive Farm Family of the Year yard sign to be presented to the winning family at the county annual meeting. Counties may also choose to give other recognition items at their discretion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601566542106.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Farm BureauA family from Barton County has been named one of the Kansas Farm Bureau Families of the Year.Rick and Sharon Hiss were the honorees from Barton County.The full list of recipients is below. 2022 Farm Family Recipients Chad and Cassondra Basinger – Reno County Brance and Natalie Boone&nbsp;– Greenwood County Dallas and Leah Fuller –&nbsp;&nbsp;Mitchell County Rick and Sharon Hiss&nbsp;–&nbsp;Barton County Garrett and Randee Holaday&nbsp;–&nbsp;Jackson County Garrett and Caley Love&nbsp;–&nbsp;Gray County Jesse and Anna Luna – Rooks County Kent and Rebecca Ott&nbsp;–&nbsp;Sedgwick County Ryan and Ashley Stainbrook&nbsp;–&nbsp;Linn County Lacey and Mark Wray&nbsp;–&nbsp;Franklin CountyThe 10 Kansas Farm Family of the Year Awards (one per Kansas Farm Bureau district) will be presented at the Kansas Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Manhattan, Kan. Honorees will receive special recognition, a commemorative gift and an invite for immediate family to the recognition banquet.The purpose of the award is to recognize outstanding Farm Bureau families who have distinguished themselves through participation in Farm Bureau programs and leadership, family activities, community and civic service, as well as displaying good farm operation management.The award is an opportunity to recognize 105 farm families (single or extended) at the county level and 10 (one per Kansas Farm Bureau district) farm families (single or extended) at the state level. Applicants must be actively participating in production agriculture and selected by the county Farm Bureau. Current Farm Bureau board members, their families and Farm Bureau staff members are not eligible.Each county Farm Bureau is encouraged to annually select a deserving family and honor them at the county annual meeting or similar event. Each county Farm Bureau may submit their winning family application for one of the 10 Kansas Farm Family of the Year awards to Kansas Farm Bureau.Each county will receive an attractive Farm Family of the Year yard sign to be presented to the winning family at the county annual meeting. Counties may also choose to give other recognition items at their discretion.

Barton Co. family among the KFB's Farm Families of the Year

Russell County Leadership introduced the selection for Class I of their leadership program.

Russell County Leadership is an "intense leadership program aimed at developing emerging business leaders in Russell County communities."

Class I members are Becky Anschutz, Lacie Austin, Kelli Johnson, Gage Nichols, Chandler Reich-Sellens, Diana VanBruggen, Sarah Vonfeldt and April Webb.

Classes are expected to begin in few weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658762938810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell County Leadership introduced the selection for Class I of their leadership program.Russell County Leadership is an "intense leadership program aimed at developing emerging business leaders in Russell County communities."Class I members are Becky Anschutz, Lacie Austin, Kelli Johnson, Gage Nichols, Chandler Reich-Sellens, Diana VanBruggen, Sarah Vonfeldt and April Webb.Classes are expected to begin in few weeks.

Russell County Leadership announces first class

Organizations have been helping keep Kansas clean for more than 30 years through participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program. With increased amounts of trash along the highways and limited staff, the Kansas Department of Transportation has created an incentive stipend for groups that actively participate in the program.

“KDOT appreciates all the volunteers’ efforts to assist in removing trash along our highways,” said Director of Field Operations Clay Adams. “They are providing a valuable service to the state. These stipends will benefit groups as well as increase the number of groups taking part in the clean-up program.”

The stipend is $190 per highway section, which is generally two miles long. Adopt-A-Highway groups receiving $600 or more in payments in a calendar year will be issued a 1099 tax form. New and existing groups will be able to submit a request for payment after their group completes a highway cleanup. The group will submit forms identifying the location, date, number of volunteers and number of bags as well as before and after photos of the site.

All groups go through the standard process to adopt a section of highway. New groups will sign an agreement, receive safety training information and follow procedures when scheduling a cleanup. Existing groups will continue to follow existing procedures. State employees and their families are welcome to participate in a group, but are not eligible to receive stipends.

For more information or to sign up, contact the Adopt-A-Highway coordinator at the closest KDOT District Office –

District One (northeast Kansas)&nbsp;- 121 S.W. 21st Street, Topeka, (785) 296-3881

District Two (north central Kansas)&nbsp;- 1006 N. Third, Salina, (785) 823-3754

District Three (northwest Kansas)&nbsp;- 312 S. Second, Norton, (785) 601-6001

District Four (southeast Kansas)&nbsp;- 411 W. Fourteenth, Chanute, (620) 902-6400

District Five (south central Kansas)&nbsp;- 500 N. Hendricks, Hutchinson, (620) 860-7400

District Six (southwest Kansas)&nbsp;- 121 N. Campus Drive, Garden City, (620) 765-7074

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648229829930.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Organizations have been helping keep Kansas clean for more than 30 years through participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program. With increased amounts of trash along the highways and limited staff, the Kansas Department of Transportation has created an incentive stipend for groups that actively participate in the program.“KDOT appreciates all the volunteers’ efforts to assist in removing trash along our highways,” said Director of Field Operations Clay Adams. “They are providing a valuable service to the state. These stipends will benefit groups as well as increase the number of groups taking part in the clean-up program.”The stipend is $190 per highway section, which is generally two miles long. Adopt-A-Highway groups receiving $600 or more in payments in a calendar year will be issued a 1099 tax form. New and existing groups will be able to submit a request for payment after their group completes a highway cleanup. The group will submit forms identifying the location, date, number of volunteers and number of bags as well as before and after photos of the site.All groups go through the standard process to adopt a section of highway. New groups will sign an agreement, receive safety training information and follow procedures when scheduling a cleanup. Existing groups will continue to follow existing procedures. State employees and their families are welcome to participate in a group, but are not eligible to receive stipends.For more information or to sign up, contact the Adopt-A-Highway coordinator at the closest KDOT District Office –District One (northeast Kansas)&nbsp;- 121 S.W. 21st Street, Topeka, (785) 296-3881District Two (north central Kansas)&nbsp;- 1006 N. Third, Salina, (785) 823-3754District Three (northwest Kansas)&nbsp;- 312 S. Second, Norton, (785) 601-6001District Four (southeast Kansas)&nbsp;- 411 W. Fourteenth, Chanute, (620) 902-6400District Five (south central Kansas)&nbsp;- 500 N. Hendricks, Hutchinson, (620) 860-7400District Six (southwest Kansas)&nbsp;- 121 N. Campus Drive, Garden City, (620) 765-7074

Stipends available to organizations participating in state’s Adopt-A-Highway

The Golden Belt Humane Society is busting at the seams with cats and kittens. The shelter has no more open kennels. In fact, the humane society had to set up crate cages to house kittens as well as utilize foster homes for litters of kittens. 

In hopes of making space to keep serving the community, reduced adoption fees for cats/kittens started July 25.

If the kitten is not sterilized before leaving or old enough for a rabies vaccine, a spay/neuter contract will be issued along with a rabies voucher. All cats/kittens have had at least one round of vaccines (if not two), dewormed and monthly preventions administered. 

To apply for any of the shelter's pets, please click on the adoption application link here...<a href="https://pdf.ac/89YCp?fbclid=IwAR1slg2o_BXseTN6Tc4i_Qp2iKpf5eV6-_XZ102Lv3WdBsuZKwIW0kR01s8" target="_blank">https://pdf.ac/89YCp</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658770394114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Golden Belt Humane Society is busting at the seams with cats and kittens. The shelter has no more open kennels. In fact, the humane society had to set up crate cages to house kittens as well as utilize foster homes for litters of kittens. In hopes of making space to keep serving the community, reduced adoption fees for cats/kittens started July 25.If the kitten is not sterilized before leaving or old enough for a rabies vaccine, a spay/neuter contract will be issued along with a rabies voucher. All cats/kittens have had at least one round of vaccines (if not two), dewormed and monthly preventions administered. To apply for any of the shelter's pets, please click on the adoption application link here...<a href="https://pdf.ac/89YCp?fbclid=IwAR1slg2o_BXseTN6Tc4i_Qp2iKpf5eV6-_XZ102Lv3WdBsuZKwIW0kR01s8" target="_blank">https://pdf.ac/89YCp</a>.

Golden Belt Humane Society full; reduced adoption fees for cats

News from the Oil Patch, July 25 John P. Tretbar

In morning trading Monday the benchmark crude futures contract in New York was up $1.48 from Friday's close, at $96.18 per barrel. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $85 a barrel at CHS in McPherson, down more than $13 from July 1.

Gasoline prices continue to drop. Local prices are as low as $4.24 a gallon at a few stations in Hays and $4.19 across Great Bend. The cost of a 15-gallon fill-up is down more than eight dollars from a month ago.&nbsp; Nine states are now posting average prices below four dollars a gallon, according to the auto club AAA. The national average pump price on Monday was $4.35 a gallon. The average across Kansas was $4.05. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes reached 758 rigs, an increase of two gas rigs. The count in Alaska was up two rigs while New Mexico was down one. The Rig Count in Kansas shows 25 active rigs east of Wichita, up one, and 31 in Western Kansas, also up one. So far this year, 182 active operators have spudded 770 wells, an increase of 298 wells from a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 414 wells with drilling or completion operations underway. Kansas regulators approved 35 new drilling locations last week. There are four new permits in Ellis County and one in Stafford County among the 18 approved in Western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 27 newly-completed wells across Kansas during the week through July 21. There were 15 in eastern Kansas and 12 west of Wichita including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. The government last month closed the book on the probe of the fatal fire at the HollyFrontier refinery in El Dorado, Kansas in 2017. The Environmental Protection Agency will collect a $1.6 million penalty to resolve alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act. The company had already entered into a consent decree requiring them to conduct audits to evaluate risk management compliance. According to EPA, the company stores regulated hazardous substances and failed to comply with requirements intended to protect the public from accidental releases. The government says that failure contributed to a large fire that resulted in the 2017 death of a HollyFrontier employee. The government reported a slight drop in its weekly production report. The Energy Information Administration reports output of 11.935 million barrels per day during the week through July 15th. That's down from just over 12 million barrels per day the week before. Imports last week averaged 6.5 million barrels per day, down 200-thousand barrels from the week before. Over the last four weeks, imports averaged nearly two percent more than the same four-weeks last year. EIA reports US crude-oil inventories dropped by 400-thousand barrels last week to 426.6 million barrels as of July 15th. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Total motor gasoline inventories increased by 3.5 million barrels last week and are about 3% below the five year average for this time of year. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US is up for the week but slightly behind the totals from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,175 tanker carloads rolling the rails in the week through July 16th, up 780 carloads from the week before, but down over three percent from the same week in 2021. Canadian traffic is up 704 carloads on the week and more than 22% higher than the tally a year ago. The number-three crude producing state in the US reports a big production spike in May. Output for May was over 32 million barrels, or nearly 1.06 million barrels per day. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports production in May was up 17% from the month before. Director Lynn Helms says they have almost recovered what they lost in April, when back-to-back blizzards shut down electrical power across much of the state. The state's gas capture statistics in May reached 95% to tie that state's previous best effort set back in March. Operators of the Keystone Pipeline resumed normal operations Saturday, after reducing transit volumes on July 17. A power supply in South Dakota was damaged in what's described as a non-operational incident. Operator TC Energy announced resumption of normal operations July 22. Company officials said they were unable to discuss details of what it called commercially sensitive information, but said there was no material impact to TC Energy-owned facilities during the incident. The state of New Mexico is basking in big bucks, thanks to rising crude prices. The state's Tax and Revenue Department reports oil and gas revenues topped $1.7 BILLION in the first four months of the year. That's more than double the tally from the first four months of last year. Legislative economists estimate New Mexico will rake in more than five billion dollars for the fiscal year, roughly one billion dollars more than last year's tally. There are tentative signs that Russia's diversion of crude oil to Asia from long-time European customers is faltering. Shipments to China and India are down by almost 30% from their post-invasion peak. Bloomberg reports there are early signs that Asian nations may not be able to fully replace Russia’s European buyers. Russia is now seeking payment for some oil exports to India in the dirham, the currency of the United Arab Emirates. Moscow is moving away from the U.S. dollar to insulate itself from the effects of Western sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789001883.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, July 25 John P. Tretbar In morning trading Monday the benchmark crude futures contract in New York was up $1.48 from Friday's close, at $96.18 per barrel. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $85 a barrel at CHS in McPherson, down more than $13 from July 1. Gasoline prices continue to drop. Local prices are as low as $4.24 a gallon at a few stations in Hays and $4.19 across Great Bend. The cost of a 15-gallon fill-up is down more than eight dollars from a month ago.&nbsp; Nine states are now posting average prices below four dollars a gallon, according to the auto club AAA. The national average pump price on Monday was $4.35 a gallon. The average across Kansas was $4.05. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes reached 758 rigs, an increase of two gas rigs. The count in Alaska was up two rigs while New Mexico was down one. The Rig Count in Kansas shows 25 active rigs east of Wichita, up one, and 31 in Western Kansas, also up one. So far this year, 182 active operators have spudded 770 wells, an increase of 298 wells from a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is scouting 414 wells with drilling or completion operations underway. Kansas regulators approved 35 new drilling locations last week. There are four new permits in Ellis County and one in Stafford County among the 18 approved in Western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 27 newly-completed wells across Kansas during the week through July 21. There were 15 in eastern Kansas and 12 west of Wichita including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. The government last month closed the book on the probe of the fatal fire at the HollyFrontier refinery in El Dorado, Kansas in 2017. The Environmental Protection Agency will collect a $1.6 million penalty to resolve alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act. The company had already entered into a consent decree requiring them to conduct audits to evaluate risk management compliance. According to EPA, the company stores regulated hazardous substances and failed to comply with requirements intended to protect the public from accidental releases. The government says that failure contributed to a large fire that resulted in the 2017 death of a HollyFrontier employee. The government reported a slight drop in its weekly production report. The Energy Information Administration reports output of 11.935 million barrels per day during the week through July 15th. That's down from just over 12 million barrels per day the week before. Imports last week averaged 6.5 million barrels per day, down 200-thousand barrels from the week before. Over the last four weeks, imports averaged nearly two percent more than the same four-weeks last year. EIA reports US crude-oil inventories dropped by 400-thousand barrels last week to 426.6 million barrels as of July 15th. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Total motor gasoline inventories increased by 3.5 million barrels last week and are about 3% below the five year average for this time of year. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US is up for the week but slightly behind the totals from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,175 tanker carloads rolling the rails in the week through July 16th, up 780 carloads from the week before, but down over three percent from the same week in 2021. Canadian traffic is up 704 carloads on the week and more than 22% higher than the tally a year ago. The number-three crude producing state in the US reports a big production spike in May. Output for May was over 32 million barrels, or nearly 1.06 million barrels per day. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports production in May was up 17% from the month before. Director Lynn Helms says they have almost recovered what they lost in April, when back-to-back blizzards shut down electrical power across much of the state. The state's gas capture statistics in May reached 95% to tie that state's previous best effort set back in March. Operators of the Keystone Pipeline resumed normal operations Saturday, after reducing transit volumes on July 17. A power supply in South Dakota was damaged in what's described as a non-operational incident. Operator TC Energy announced resumption of normal operations July 22. Company officials said they were unable to discuss details of what it called commercially sensitive information, but said there was no material impact to TC Energy-owned facilities during the incident. The state of New Mexico is basking in big bucks, thanks to rising crude prices. The state's Tax and Revenue Department reports oil and gas revenues topped $1.7 BILLION in the first four months of the year. That's more than double the tally from the first four months of last year. Legislative economists estimate New Mexico will rake in more than five billion dollars for the fiscal year, roughly one billion dollars more than last year's tally. There are tentative signs that Russia's diversion of crude oil to Asia from long-time European customers is faltering. Shipments to China and India are down by almost 30% from their post-invasion peak. Bloomberg reports there are early signs that Asian nations may not be able to fully replace Russia’s European buyers. Russia is now seeking payment for some oil exports to India in the dirham, the currency of the United Arab Emirates. Moscow is moving away from the U.S. dollar to insulate itself from the effects of Western sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Nine states now below $4/gallon

Barton Co. Sheriff's deputy finds cash at convenience store

Jeffery Donecker is one of four candidates vying for the District 1 seat
on the Barton County Commission. Donecker, along with the other candidates,
participated in the League of Women Voters Great Bend – Barton County forum
last week. 

Donecker is the co-owner of Little Giant Fittings and has been a
member of the Claflin Fire Department for 17 years. 
"The youth is what I'm going for," said Donecker. "My son moved home from college and started a career in Great Bend. I'd like to keep him here. I'd like to build Great Bend, Barton County and the surrounding area. What can we do for our communities to make them better?" 
Donecker has spent time coaching youth football and focused his forum responses on
attracting the younger generation to the county. Serving on the Claflin City
Council in the past, Donecker said keeping the mill levy consistent is important. 
"One of the big things was to never drop the mill levy," said Donecker. "I know a lot of people are going...really? If you hold onto the keel, and all of sudden you drop it, what happens when something breaks, or your infrastructure goes south? We have to have that money. Dropping taxes isn't a good deal. Bringing up the tax base is a good deal." 
Matthew Gerritzen, Linda Moeder and Duane Reif are also running for the
District 1 position. Eagle Radio will be featuring each of these candidates throughout
the week. 
You can view the entire candidate forum by clicking <a href="https://fb.watch/eqF6BB0FEM/">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658514539611.png" alt="Jeffery Donecker (standing) is running for the District 1 seat on the Barton County Commission.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jeffery Donecker (standing) is running for the District 1 seat on the Barton County Commission.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostJeffery Donecker is one of four candidates vying for the District 1 seat
on the Barton County Commission. Donecker, along with the other candidates,
participated in the League of Women Voters Great Bend – Barton County forum
last week. Donecker is the co-owner of Little Giant Fittings and has been a
member of the Claflin Fire Department for 17 years. 
"The youth is what I'm going for," said Donecker. "My son moved home from college and started a career in Great Bend. I'd like to keep him here. I'd like to build Great Bend, Barton County and the surrounding area. What can we do for our communities to make them better?" 
Donecker has spent time coaching youth football and focused his forum responses on
attracting the younger generation to the county. Serving on the Claflin City
Council in the past, Donecker said keeping the mill levy consistent is important. 
"One of the big things was to never drop the mill levy," said Donecker. "I know a lot of people are going...really? If you hold onto the keel, and all of sudden you drop it, what happens when something breaks, or your infrastructure goes south? We have to have that money. Dropping taxes isn't a good deal. Bringing up the tax base is a good deal." 
Matthew Gerritzen, Linda Moeder and Duane Reif are also running for the
District 1 position. Eagle Radio will be featuring each of these candidates throughout
the week. 
You can view the entire candidate forum by clicking <a href="https://fb.watch/eqF6BB0FEM/">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton County Commission election preview – Jeffery Donecker

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/25) 
 
Trash Complaint / Dumping 
 
At 11:57 a.m. a trash complaint was reported at 24th &amp; White
Sands Dr. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 4:04 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 184 S. Washington Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 4:37 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 300 block of NE 110 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
At 4:56 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1100 block of NE K-156 Highway
in Claflin. 
 
At 5:02 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 90 Road &amp; NW 20 Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 7:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 197 on W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 8:33 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 20 Road &amp; SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 11:35 p.m. a burglary was reported at 323 Marla Street 2. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (7/25) 
 
Theft 
 
At 1:53 a.m. a theft of cigarettes and $10 was reported at 4904 12th
Street. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 8:01 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4309 8th Street. 
 
At 8:37 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 3910 Cedar Park Pl. 
 
Animal Comlaint 
 
At 10:13 a.m. a report of being bitten by her own dog was made at 2104 29th
Street. 
 
Trash Complaint / Drumping 
 
At 11:57 a.m. a report of a truck losing trash was made at 24th
&amp; White Sands Dr. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:16 p.m. an accident that occurred a couple of weeks ago was reported at
2522 5th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:57 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 3:01 p.m. a theft was reported at 1200 Taft Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:13 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2400 10th Street. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 7:37 p.m. a report of the boyfriend moved out and left some property at 2801
19th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:51 p.m. theft of a bike was reported at 1433 12th Street. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:11 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1715 Patton Road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/25) 
 
Trash Complaint / Dumping 
 
At 11:57 a.m. a trash complaint was reported at 24th &amp; White
Sands Dr. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 4:04 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 184 S. Washington Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 4:37 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 300 block of NE 110 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
At 4:56 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1100 block of NE K-156 Highway
in Claflin. 
 
At 5:02 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 90 Road &amp; NW 20 Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 7:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 197 on W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 8:33 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 20 Road &amp; SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 11:35 p.m. a burglary was reported at 323 Marla Street 2. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (7/25) 
 
Theft 
 
At 1:53 a.m. a theft of cigarettes and $10 was reported at 4904 12th
Street. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 8:01 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4309 8th Street. 
 
At 8:37 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 3910 Cedar Park Pl. 
 
Animal Comlaint 
 
At 10:13 a.m. a report of being bitten by her own dog was made at 2104 29th
Street. 
 
Trash Complaint / Drumping 
 
At 11:57 a.m. a report of a truck losing trash was made at 24th
&amp; White Sands Dr. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:16 p.m. an accident that occurred a couple of weeks ago was reported at
2522 5th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:57 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 3:01 p.m. a theft was reported at 1200 Taft Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:13 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2400 10th Street. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 7:37 p.m. a report of the boyfriend moved out and left some property at 2801
19th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:51 p.m. theft of a bike was reported at 1433 12th Street. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:11 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1715 Patton Road.

Cop Shop (7/25)

7/25 BOOKED: Dontae Adams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jonathan Scothorn on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S. Also booked on two Ellis County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Martin Ramirez-Ramirez on bond revocation on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Restraint and Batter, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Assault, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, after serving sentence. Released to Rice County Sheriff's Office.

RELEASED: Kurt Woods on Barton County District Court case for two counts of Probation Violation, released to treatment.

RELEASED: Dontae Adams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. Also released on Reno County District Court warrant after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Maxine Moreno on Barton County District Court case, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Albert Hass on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp. Also released from KDOC for Parole Violation, with an OR Bond through Judge Burgess.

RELEASED: Martin Ramirez-Ramirez on bond revocation on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Restraint and Batter; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Assault, after posting surety bonds of $2,500 and $500 through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="Ace-Bail-Bonding---July-4th.png" />
 <figcaption>Ace-Bail-Bonding---July-4th.png</figcaption>
 </figure>7/25 BOOKED: Dontae Adams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Jonathan Scothorn on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S. Also booked on two Ellis County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Martin Ramirez-Ramirez on bond revocation on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Restraint and Batter, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Assault, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, after serving sentence. Released to Rice County Sheriff's Office.RELEASED: Kurt Woods on Barton County District Court case for two counts of Probation Violation, released to treatment.RELEASED: Dontae Adams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. Also released on Reno County District Court warrant after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Maxine Moreno on Barton County District Court case, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Albert Hass on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp. Also released from KDOC for Parole Violation, with an OR Bond through Judge Burgess.RELEASED: Martin Ramirez-Ramirez on bond revocation on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Restraint and Batter; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Assault, after posting surety bonds of $2,500 and $500 through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.&nbsp;

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (7/25)

Today A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m. Patchy fog before 11 a.m. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 93. East wind 6 to 9 mph.

Tonight A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. East northeast wind 6 to 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Wednesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. North northeast wind 7 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northeast after midnight.

Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Light north northeast wind becoming northeast 6 to 11 mph in the morning.

Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Friday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 74.

Friday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Saturday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79.

Saturday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.

Today A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m. Patchy fog before 11 a.m. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 93. East wind 6 to 9 mph.Tonight A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. East northeast wind 6 to 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Wednesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. North northeast wind 7 to 9 mph.Wednesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northeast after midnight.Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Light north northeast wind becoming northeast 6 to 11 mph in the morning.Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.Friday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 74.Friday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.Saturday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79.Saturday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.Sunday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.Monday Sunny, with a high near 94.&nbsp;&nbsp;