Hear this month's Fueling Kansas show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Executive Director of the Kansas Oil and Gas Producers Association Warren Martin that aired May 28, 2025.

The Fueling Kansas program airs the fourth Wednesday every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722358431610.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Fueling Kansas show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Executive Director of the Kansas Oil and Gas Producers Association Warren Martin that aired May 28, 2025.<div><iframe title="Kansas Strong show - oil & gas education" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kqqj7-18c114e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Fueling Kansas program airs the fourth Wednesday every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Fueling Kansas show - oil & gas education

PAWNEE COUNTY – Dustin Barnes, 48 of Larned, appeared Wednesday morning in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff for Preliminary Hearing on felony charges of&nbsp; Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer resulting in bodily harm; and Interference with Law Enforcement; Resisting Felony Arrest, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Prior to the commencement of the hearing, the parties advised the Court they had reached a plea agreement.  In exchange for the defendant’s plea to Count 1 as amended, the State agreed to dismiss Count 2 and amend Count 1 to simply Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, a Class A person misdemeanor. Barnes entered a Guilty plea to the amended charge of Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer.  

In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that had the matter preceded to trial the State would have presented evidence that the defendant was previously charged with separate physical altercations that occurred at the Pawnee Plaza in Larned, Kansas on December 10, 2024, and January 13, 2025.  Barnes subsequently entered a No Contest plea to Disorderly Conduct on March 31, 2025, due to the incidents and was ordered to pay court costs and a fine.

  As a result of the altercations, however, the facility gave Barnes a “No Trespass Advisory” and directed he not to be on the premises again.  On the morning of May 12, 2025, Larned Police Department Dispatch was notified that Barnes had been banging on the door of the facility manager’s Larned residence. No charges were requested by the manager at that time, but the family asked law enforcement to notify Barnes not to come back to the residence.

Later that morning, a Larned Police Department Sergeant located Barnes walking west of the Edwards Park Public Golf Course near the driving range and golf cart storage buildings. Before the officer could exit his patrol vehicle, Barnes struck the officer through the open driver side window an estimated eight to ten times with a closed fist. 

 As a result, the officer deployed his taser through the open window.  A taser was deployed a second time when Barnes refused to comply with commands to put his hands behind his back and began walking away. The officer was treated at the scene for minor injuries.  Pursuant to protocol, EMS also checked the defendant and determined he did not suffer any injuries other than the puncture wounds from the taser deployment.  The attack on the officer was captured by the officer’s patrol car in-car video.  The second deployment of non-lethal force was captured on the officer’s body cam which activated once the officer exited the patrol vehicle.

After accepting the plea,&nbsp; Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell sentenced Barnes to 12 months on probation with an underlying 12 month jail sentence.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748611701452.png" alt="-Image from video of attack on the officer released by the county attorney" />
 <figcaption>-Image from video of attack on the officer released by the county attorney</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY – Dustin Barnes, 48 of Larned, appeared Wednesday morning in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff for Preliminary Hearing on felony charges of&nbsp; Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer resulting in bodily harm; and Interference with Law Enforcement; Resisting Felony Arrest, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747164341960.png" alt="-Barnes photo Pawnee County" />
 <figcaption>-Barnes photo Pawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Prior to the commencement of the hearing, the parties advised the Court they had reached a plea agreement. In exchange for the defendant’s plea to Count 1 as amended, the State agreed to dismiss Count 2 and amend Count 1 to simply Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, a Class A person misdemeanor. Barnes entered a Guilty plea to the amended charge of Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer. In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that had the matter preceded to trial the State would have presented evidence that the defendant was previously charged with separate physical altercations that occurred at the Pawnee Plaza in Larned, Kansas on December 10, 2024, and January 13, 2025. Barnes subsequently entered a No Contest plea to Disorderly Conduct on March 31, 2025, due to the incidents and was ordered to pay court costs and a fine. As a result of the altercations, however, the facility gave Barnes a “No Trespass Advisory” and directed he not to be on the premises again. On the morning of May 12, 2025, Larned Police Department Dispatch was notified that Barnes had been banging on the door of the facility manager’s Larned residence. No charges were requested by the manager at that time, but the family asked law enforcement to notify Barnes not to come back to the residence.Later that morning, a Larned Police Department Sergeant located Barnes walking west of the Edwards Park Public Golf Course near the driving range and golf cart storage buildings. Before the officer could exit his patrol vehicle, Barnes struck the officer through the open driver side window an estimated eight to ten times with a closed fist. As a result, the officer deployed his taser through the open window. A taser was deployed a second time when Barnes refused to comply with commands to put his hands behind his back and began walking away. The officer was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Pursuant to protocol, EMS also checked the defendant and determined he did not suffer any injuries other than the puncture wounds from the taser deployment. The attack on the officer was captured by the officer’s patrol car in-car video. The second deployment of non-lethal force was captured on the officer’s body cam which activated once the officer exited the patrol vehicle.After accepting the plea,&nbsp; Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell sentenced Barnes to 12 months on probation with an underlying 12 month jail sentence.&nbsp;

Plea deal for man in attack that injured Larned police officer

On Tuesday, the Barton Community College Board of Trustees approved the following list of management staff contracts for the next school year, 2025-2026.

On Tuesday, the Barton Community College Board of Trustees approved the following list of management staff contracts for the next school year, 2025-2026.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748458292864.jpeg" alt="Screenshot 2025-05-28 135055.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot 2025-05-28 135055.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton CC approves '25-'26 contracts for management staff

BOOKED: Nelson Martinez on Barton County District Court case
for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000
C/S. Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for contempt of court, bond set at
$1,700 cash only.

BOOKED: Tyler Leech on Barton County District Court warrant
for violation of Kansas offender registration act, driving while suspended, and
driving without lighted lamps. Bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Robert E. Stanley Jr. on Barton County District
Court warrant for probation violation with a bond set at $2,500 C/S. Probation
violation with bond set at $10,000 C/S. Probation violation with a bond set at
$5,000 C/S. Probation violation with a bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Justin R. Santiago on Barton County District Court
case for aggravated assault, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Amanda M. Elson on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for domestic battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Amanda M. Elson on GBMC case for domestic battery
after posting the $1,000 surety through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Christina M. Parsons on GBMC case for battery DV,
released on a 48-hour OR bond authorized by GBMC.

RELEASED: Laura K. Martinez on BCDC case for possession of
methamphetamine, posted a surety bond of $10,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Kerri R. Maxwell on BCDC warrant for distribution
of drug paraphernalia and use/possession of drug paraphernalia with a $100,000
OR bond.

RELEASED: Jericho C.R. Hutchinson on BCDC warrant for
distribution of opiate/opium narcotic or certain stimulant within 1,000 feet of
a school, on $100,000 OR bond through Judge Burgess.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Nelson Martinez on Barton County District Court case
for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000
C/S. Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for contempt of court, bond set at
$1,700 cash only.BOOKED: Tyler Leech on Barton County District Court warrant
for violation of Kansas offender registration act, driving while suspended, and
driving without lighted lamps. Bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Robert E. Stanley Jr. on Barton County District
Court warrant for probation violation with a bond set at $2,500 C/S. Probation
violation with bond set at $10,000 C/S. Probation violation with a bond set at
$5,000 C/S. Probation violation with a bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Justin R. Santiago on Barton County District Court
case for aggravated assault, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Amanda M. Elson on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for domestic battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Amanda M. Elson on GBMC case for domestic battery
after posting the $1,000 surety through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Christina M. Parsons on GBMC case for battery DV,
released on a 48-hour OR bond authorized by GBMC.RELEASED: Laura K. Martinez on BCDC case for possession of
methamphetamine, posted a surety bond of $10,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Kerri R. Maxwell on BCDC warrant for distribution
of drug paraphernalia and use/possession of drug paraphernalia with a $100,000
OR bond.RELEASED: Jericho C.R. Hutchinson on BCDC warrant for
distribution of opiate/opium narcotic or certain stimulant within 1,000 feet of
a school, on $100,000 OR bond through Judge Burgess.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/29)

You have an opportunity today to become the final instant finalist in the Reef Blue Summer Giveaway. It's presented by Ehler Chevrolet, INA Alert, Equity Bank and Kelly's Garden Sense.

Sign up today at Great Bend Post.com. You can register from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/faa73a97-4e3c-405e-b18d-9148ea926a10">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623677282631.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>You have an opportunity today to become the final instant finalist in the Reef Blue Summer Giveaway. It's presented by Ehler Chevrolet, INA Alert, Equity Bank and Kelly's Garden Sense.Sign up today at Great Bend Post.com. You can register from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/faa73a97-4e3c-405e-b18d-9148ea926a10">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Reef Blue Summer - Sign up today at Great Bend Post

Eagle Media will cover more than 100 area athletes at the 2025 State Track and Field Championships on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31. Tune in to <a href="https://khokfm.com/#//">100.7 FM</a> or <a href="https://hits1069.com/">106.9 FM</a> for hourly updates with Brant Daughtry from 12:10 p.m. to 8:10 p.m. each day.

Area High School's include: Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned, Russell, Lyons, Ellinwood, Central Plains, Otis Bison,&nbsp;La Crosse,&nbsp;Macksville, St. John, Stafford, Chase, Ness City, Kinsley and Lewis.&nbsp; &nbsp;

State track coverage is sponsored in part by: Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company Advanced and Progressive Therapy Cornerstone Automotive, Jimlo Glass Center The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Marmie Auto Group Keller Real Estate and Insurance Great Bend Industries GB Car Care Sunflower Bank USD 431 - Hoisington Pawnee County Coop Otis-Bison Cougar Booster Club Miller's of Claflin That New Place in Olmitz Schroeder Home and Remodeling Agency One in Otis Murphy Mini Storage Insurance Planning, Oilfield Manufacturers Warehouse Dr. Chad Ohnmacht, DDS Innovative Livestock Services Delgados Mexican Resturaunt The Fieldhouse Skillett and Sons Wheatland Electric Schremmer Pest Management GB Tarp Company 10th&nbsp;Street Eyecare Center Shelter Insurance - Chris Ramsey Superior Essex.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747924766102.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Media will cover more than 100 area athletes at the 2025 State Track and Field Championships on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31. Tune in to <a href="https://khokfm.com/#//">100.7 FM</a> or <a href="https://hits1069.com/">106.9 FM</a> for hourly updates with Brant Daughtry from 12:10 p.m. to 8:10 p.m. each day.Area High School's include: Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned, Russell, Lyons, Ellinwood, Central Plains, Otis Bison,&nbsp;La Crosse,&nbsp;Macksville, St. John, Stafford, Chase, Ness City, Kinsley and Lewis.&nbsp; &nbsp; State track coverage is sponsored in part by: Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company Advanced and Progressive Therapy Cornerstone Automotive, Jimlo Glass Center The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Marmie Auto Group Keller Real Estate and Insurance Great Bend Industries GB Car Care Sunflower Bank USD 431 - Hoisington Pawnee County Coop Otis-Bison Cougar Booster Club Miller's of Claflin That New Place in Olmitz Schroeder Home and Remodeling Agency One in Otis Murphy Mini Storage Insurance Planning, Oilfield Manufacturers Warehouse Dr. Chad Ohnmacht, DDS Innovative Livestock Services Delgados Mexican Resturaunt The Fieldhouse Skillett and Sons Wheatland Electric Schremmer Pest Management GB Tarp Company 10th&nbsp;Street Eyecare Center Shelter Insurance - Chris Ramsey Superior Essex.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎧Listen to State Track updates on Eagle Media

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that nearly $600,000 has been awarded in the latest round of Tourism Attraction Development Grant funding, bringing the total awarded this fiscal year to more than $1 million. The new grants will support 32 communities through 21 projects aimed at developing new or enhancing existing tourism attractions across the state.

The City of Larned Christmas Decoration Committee received $10,000 through the grants.

“Tourism continues to be a powerful driver of economic growth for communities of all sizes—and we’re committed to supporting as many attractions as possible,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These grant initiatives are extremely effective strategic investments that not only enhance the visitor experience, but also create more jobs, support small businesses, and strengthen community pride.”

Through the grant program, Kansas Tourism will inspire travel, enhance the state’s economy and elevate unique community experiences across the state. The program is designed to provide communities across Kansas with financial backing and continue improving the state as a top tourism destination.

“Kansas continues to invest in the kind of attractions that inspire curiosity, spark exploration and keep visitors coming back,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We know our communities thrive off vibrancy, and with more than $1 million awarded this fiscal year, we are proud to be able to support them while they continue bringing in fresh energy and new experiences to the tourism landscape.”

The total amount of funding awarded this round was $599,616, and recipients will contribute more than $8 million in matching funds for the 21 projects. Once the projects are complete, they will contribute nearly $16 million in total investment.

To view the list of the Attraction Development Grant recipients, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2Ftravel-industry%2Fprograms-and-resources%2Fgrants%2Fattraction-development-grants%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/d6amZvfuqRHBNfRYg24q0lUF5jHxhlzrQWiwXCSwe2E=406">here</a>.

For more information on the Tourism Attraction Development Grant program, visit the Kansas Tourism Grants webpage&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2Ftravel-industry%2Fprograms-and-resources%2Fgrants%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/b90032i-ZXRB6ARDB25LfEMzM6_YiW05TCJiI4ZOG2Q=406">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Program Manager Babette Dixon&nbsp;<a href="mailto:babette.dixon@ks.gov">here</a>.

Interested in learning about all the grants offered by the Kansas Department of Commerce? See the Grants Calendar&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fgrantscalendar%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/23dqKbvisllRkAFILqwknX29EwMmiCV-Ka3Qf-LS06U=406">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624051376870.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that nearly $600,000 has been awarded in the latest round of Tourism Attraction Development Grant funding, bringing the total awarded this fiscal year to more than $1 million. The new grants will support 32 communities through 21 projects aimed at developing new or enhancing existing tourism attractions across the state.The City of Larned Christmas Decoration Committee received $10,000 through the grants.“Tourism continues to be a powerful driver of economic growth for communities of all sizes—and we’re committed to supporting as many attractions as possible,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These grant initiatives are extremely effective strategic investments that not only enhance the visitor experience, but also create more jobs, support small businesses, and strengthen community pride.”Through the grant program, Kansas Tourism will inspire travel, enhance the state’s economy and elevate unique community experiences across the state. The program is designed to provide communities across Kansas with financial backing and continue improving the state as a top tourism destination.“Kansas continues to invest in the kind of attractions that inspire curiosity, spark exploration and keep visitors coming back,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We know our communities thrive off vibrancy, and with more than $1 million awarded this fiscal year, we are proud to be able to support them while they continue bringing in fresh energy and new experiences to the tourism landscape.”The total amount of funding awarded this round was $599,616, and recipients will contribute more than $8 million in matching funds for the 21 projects. Once the projects are complete, they will contribute nearly $16 million in total investment.To view the list of the Attraction Development Grant recipients, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2Ftravel-industry%2Fprograms-and-resources%2Fgrants%2Fattraction-development-grants%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/d6amZvfuqRHBNfRYg24q0lUF5jHxhlzrQWiwXCSwe2E=406">here</a>.For more information on the Tourism Attraction Development Grant program, visit the Kansas Tourism Grants webpage&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2Ftravel-industry%2Fprograms-and-resources%2Fgrants%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/b90032i-ZXRB6ARDB25LfEMzM6_YiW05TCJiI4ZOG2Q=406">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Program Manager Babette Dixon&nbsp;<a href="mailto:babette.dixon@ks.gov">here</a>.Interested in learning about all the grants offered by the Kansas Department of Commerce? See the Grants Calendar&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fgrantscalendar%2F/1/01010197131fbc9f-23cfc2f8-15a2-4684-aed8-6dd30c2c2b2d-000000/23dqKbvisllRkAFILqwknX29EwMmiCV-Ka3Qf-LS06U=406">here</a>.

$10,000 grant for Larned Christmas Decoration Committee

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Barton County Road and Bridge department overlays a quarter of the county’s
389 miles of paved roads each year. The county started resurfacing roads on May
1 and the project will continue throughout the summer. 

Public
Works Director Chris Schartz told the Barton County Commission Tuesday that
citizens can find updates on possible road closures and where crews are working
at by going to the county website.


"I know it's a pain for the public to have to go around us," said Schartz. "Just like they have work to do, we have to get our work done. We're willing to work with you. We'll help you get in if you need to get into a field or something."

Citizens can go to <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Road%20%26%20Bridge%7CRoad%20Closures%20%26%20Projects">bartoncounty.org</a> and click on the Road &amp; Bridge
department tab to find road closures.

"We have to take advantage of the weather," said Schartz. "We will definitely help you out. There are just some days we have fresh oil on the ground. We don't want to mess up your vehicles."

Crews started resurfacing south of Heizer
this week, on Northwest 60 Avenue, between Northwest 40 Road and West Barton
County Road.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748444180905.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton County Road and Bridge department overlays a quarter of the county’s
389 miles of paved roads each year. The county started resurfacing roads on May
1 and the project will continue throughout the summer. Public
Works Director Chris Schartz told the Barton County Commission Tuesday that
citizens can find updates on possible road closures and where crews are working
at by going to the county website.
"I know it's a pain for the public to have to go around us," said Schartz. "Just like they have work to do, we have to get our work done. We're willing to work with you. We'll help you get in if you need to get into a field or something."Citizens can go to <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Road%20%26%20Bridge%7CRoad%20Closures%20%26%20Projects">bartoncounty.org</a> and click on the Road &amp; Bridge
department tab to find road closures."We have to take advantage of the weather," said Schartz. "We will definitely help you out. There are just some days we have fresh oil on the ground. We don't want to mess up your vehicles."Crews started resurfacing south of Heizer
this week, on Northwest 60 Avenue, between Northwest 40 Road and West Barton
County Road.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Co. with online road closure updates during resurfacing

Friday Sunny, with a high near 78. West wind 3 to 6 mph.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 54. South wind 3 to 6 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. West southwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 57.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 85.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy.

Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Tuesday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday Sunny, with a high near 78. West wind 3 to 6 mph.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 54. South wind 3 to 6 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. West southwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 57.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 85.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy.Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Tuesday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Municipal Airport Manager Martin Miller that aired May 28, 2025.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722358431610.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Municipal Airport Manager Martin Miller that aired May 28, 2025.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Airport Manager Martin Miller" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6z8cz-18c1126-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Airport Manager Martin Miller

On Tuesday, the Barton Community College Board of Trustees approved the following list of administrative contracts for the next school year, 2025-2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748458110299.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, the Barton Community College Board of Trustees approved the following list of administrative contracts for the next school year, 2025-2026.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748457460306.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton CC approves administrative contracts for '25-'26

Area High School's include: Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned, Russell, Lyons, Ellinwood, Central Plains, Otis Bison,&nbsp;La Crosse,&nbsp;Macksville, St. John, Stafford, Chase, Ness City,&nbsp; and Kinsley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747924766102.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Media will cover more than 100 area athletes at the 2025 State Track and Field Championships on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31. Tune in to <a href="https://khokfm.com/#//">100.7 FM</a> or <a href="https://hits1069.com/">106.9 FM</a> for hourly updates with Brant Daughtry from 12:10 p.m. to 8:10 p.m. each day.Area High School's include: Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned, Russell, Lyons, Ellinwood, Central Plains, Otis Bison,&nbsp;La Crosse,&nbsp;Macksville, St. John, Stafford, Chase, Ness City,&nbsp; and Kinsley. State track coverage is sponsored in part by: Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company Advanced and Progressive Therapy Cornerstone Automotive, Jimlo Glass Center The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Marmie Auto Group Keller Real Estate and Insurance Great Bend Industries GB Car Care Sunflower Bank USD 431 - Hoisington Pawnee County Coop Otis-Bison Cougar Booster Club Miller's of Claflin That New Place in Olmitz Schroeder Home and Remodeling Agency One in Otis Murphy Mini Storage Insurance Planning, Oilfield Manufacturers Warehouse Dr. Chad Ohnmacht, DDS Innovative Livestock Services Delgados Mexican Resturaunt The Fieldhouse Skillett and Sons Wheatland Electric Schremmer Pest Management GB Tarp Company 10th&nbsp;Street Eyecare Center Shelter Insurance - Chris Ramsey Superior Essex.&nbsp; &nbsp;

There is utility work that is being done on 4th&nbsp;street between Elm Street and Walnut Street. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through this area so please be attentive as crews work on repairs to a sanitary sewer manhole. We expect the work to take approximately three weeks and should have a minimal impact on the traffic.

Please be careful and attentive while travelling through the area. Crews will have signage for advanced warning. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Darren Doonan, Utilities Supervisor, (620)793-4170 ddoonan@greatbendks.net.

From the City of Great Bend...There is utility work that is being done on 4th&nbsp;street between Elm Street and Walnut Street. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through this area so please be attentive as crews work on repairs to a sanitary sewer manhole. We expect the work to take approximately three weeks and should have a minimal impact on the traffic.Please be careful and attentive while travelling through the area. Crews will have signage for advanced warning. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.If you have any questions or concerns, contact Darren Doonan, Utilities Supervisor, (620)793-4170 ddoonan@greatbendks.net.

Utility work on 4th Street in Great Bend

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/28)

At 6:58 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at SW 50 Road
&amp; SW 40 Avenue.

At 8:36 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 694 C Harrison
Street.

At 2:34 p.m. a trash complaint/dumping was reported at 463
SW 60 Avenue.

At 2:54 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 50 Road.

At 9:49 p.m. threats/criminal threats were reported at 105
W. E Street in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/28)

At 8:15 a.m. criminal damage to a park department sign was
reported at 2201 Main.

At 10:21 a.m. a possible theft was reported at 1121 Baker.

At 1:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley.

At 10:08 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 21st
Street &amp; Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/28)Animal ComplaintAt 6:58 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at SW 50 Road
&amp; SW 40 Avenue.Criminal DamageAt 8:36 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 694 C Harrison
Street.Trash Complaint / DumpingAt 2:34 p.m. a trash complaint/dumping was reported at 463
SW 60 Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 2:54 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 50 Road.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 9:49 p.m. threats/criminal threats were reported at 105
W. E Street in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/28)Criminal DamageAt 8:15 a.m. criminal damage to a park department sign was
reported at 2201 Main.TheftAt 10:21 a.m. a possible theft was reported at 1121 Baker.Injury AccidentAt 1:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:08 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 21st
Street &amp; Washington.

Cop Shop (5/28)

BOOKED: Tayton J. Weeter on Barton County District Court
case for distribution of marijuana (25 - &lt; 450 grams), possession of drug
paraphernalia, and driving with no headlights, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christina Parsons on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for battery domestic violence with a bond of $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aaron M. Newsome on Pawnee County District Court
warrant for serve sentence, no bond.

BOOKED: Rick E. Novotny on Barton County District Court
warrants all for contempt of court indirect, no bond.

BOOKED: Laura K. Martinez on Barton County District Court
case for possession of methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Brett W. Whetham on Thomas County District Court
warrant for probation violation to Thomas County Sheriff’s Department.

RELEASED: Tayton J. Weeter on BCDC case on distribution of
controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, defective headlamps on
motor vehicle, posted surety bond of $50,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Tayton J. Weeter on Barton County District Court
case for distribution of marijuana (25 - &lt; 450 grams), possession of drug
paraphernalia, and driving with no headlights, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christina Parsons on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for battery domestic violence with a bond of $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aaron M. Newsome on Pawnee County District Court
warrant for serve sentence, no bond.BOOKED: Rick E. Novotny on Barton County District Court
warrants all for contempt of court indirect, no bond.BOOKED: Laura K. Martinez on Barton County District Court
case for possession of methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Brett W. Whetham on Thomas County District Court
warrant for probation violation to Thomas County Sheriff’s Department.RELEASED: Tayton J. Weeter on BCDC case on distribution of
controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, defective headlamps on
motor vehicle, posted surety bond of $50,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/28)

With a few days left before the filing deadline, there is one contested
race in Barton County as of Tuesday. The candidate list for the General
Election in November had two names, Alan Moeder and Davis Jimenez, running for
the Great Bend Mayor position.&nbsp;Both Moeder and Jimenez currently serve on the Great Bend City Council.

Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson used Tuesday’s Commission meeting
as one last chance to publicly remind everyone of the filing deadline.


"The best thing we could hope for is to have multiple candidates for each position that way there is a contested election in every race," said Hutchinson.

The filing deadline is Monday, June 2 at 12 p.m. at the Barton County Clerk's Office inside the Courthouse in Great Bend.

With seats up for election in each of the four wards, no one has filed for Ward
1 and Ward 2 on the Great Bend governing body. Nichelle Holinde has filed for
Ward 3 and incumbent Rickee Maddox has filed for Ward 4.


In Hoisington, Mayor Chris Kinman has refiled and is unopposed. 

In Ellinwood,
Irlan Fullbright is also unopposed in his campaign for another term as mayor.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

View the entire list of Barton County candidates by clicking <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Elections%7CCurrent%20Elections">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734405154283.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWith a few days left before the filing deadline, there is one contested
race in Barton County as of Tuesday. The candidate list for the General
Election in November had two names, Alan Moeder and Davis Jimenez, running for
the Great Bend Mayor position.&nbsp;Both Moeder and Jimenez currently serve on the Great Bend City Council.Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson used Tuesday’s Commission meeting
as one last chance to publicly remind everyone of the filing deadline.
"The best thing we could hope for is to have multiple candidates for each position that way there is a contested election in every race," said Hutchinson.The filing deadline is Monday, June 2 at 12 p.m. at the Barton County Clerk's Office inside the Courthouse in Great Bend.With seats up for election in each of the four wards, no one has filed for Ward
1 and Ward 2 on the Great Bend governing body. Nichelle Holinde has filed for
Ward 3 and incumbent Rickee Maddox has filed for Ward 4.
In Hoisington, Mayor Chris Kinman has refiled and is unopposed. In Ellinwood,
Irlan Fullbright is also unopposed in his campaign for another term as mayor.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;View the entire list of Barton County candidates by clicking <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Elections%7CCurrent%20Elections">HERE</a>.

Moeder & Jimenez file to become next Great Bend Mayor

Barton Community College will no longer receive the federal grant that has supported the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a vital service for older adults across the region, for nearly five decades.

The loss of this federal grant is significant, not only for Barton County but for the many citizens who rely on essential services, including the delivery of over 1,200 Meals on Wheels each month and rides to critical medical appointments. Despite this setback, Barton remains dedicated to serving the community and is actively working on solutions to ensure the continuation of key programs.

Barton President Dr. Marcus Garstecki said the loss of the grant is disappointing, but the College continues to search for new avenues to keep providing the essential services.

“For 49 years, the college has been proud to sponsor RSVP,” he said. “We appreciate the many dedicated volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others, and we remain determined to find a path forward.”

Thanks to the College’s support, RSVP Program Coordinator Linn Hogg has already established a safety net of funding that will allow services to continue through this year.

“Unfortunately, the majority of these cuts happened in rural areas like ours,” she said. “We are committed to making sure the seniors and families who depend on us won’t be left without support.”

To sustain and strengthen these efforts for the future, Barton’s Institutional Advancement division is actively developing next steps and launching new fundraising campaigns. Director of Grants Krystall Barnes is aggressively pursuing state, federal, and foundation grants.

“Securing new funding is critical,” she said. “This was a big cut nationwide, and more than 1,000 programs were eliminated across the country.”

Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Lindsey Bogner is working alongside Hogg and community partners to identify new funding sources, reduce program costs, and sustain these critical services. The Barton Foundation has launched a dedicated fund and capital campaign to support all programs under Volunteers in Action, collaborating closely with local donors to ensure continued service.

“We know how important these programs are to our community,” she said. “We are actively seeking ways to partner, fundraise, and innovate so that the residents who count on these services won’t be left behind.”

Community members interested in helping can contact the Barton Foundation at (620) 786-1136 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748454667402.jpeg" alt="RSVP volunteer Conrad Koehler packs meals for delivery to homebound community members through the Meals on Wheels program. Although the federal grant supporting these services was not renewed, Barton Community College and local partners are working to sustain the program." />
 <figcaption>RSVP volunteer Conrad Koehler packs meals for delivery to homebound community members through the Meals on Wheels program. Although the federal grant supporting these services was not renewed, Barton Community College and local partners are working to sustain the program.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie HarrisBarton Community College will no longer receive the federal grant that has supported the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a vital service for older adults across the region, for nearly five decades.The loss of this federal grant is significant, not only for Barton County but for the many citizens who rely on essential services, including the delivery of over 1,200 Meals on Wheels each month and rides to critical medical appointments. Despite this setback, Barton remains dedicated to serving the community and is actively working on solutions to ensure the continuation of key programs.Barton President Dr. Marcus Garstecki said the loss of the grant is disappointing, but the College continues to search for new avenues to keep providing the essential services.“For 49 years, the college has been proud to sponsor RSVP,” he said. “We appreciate the many dedicated volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others, and we remain determined to find a path forward.”Thanks to the College’s support, RSVP Program Coordinator Linn Hogg has already established a safety net of funding that will allow services to continue through this year.“Unfortunately, the majority of these cuts happened in rural areas like ours,” she said. “We are committed to making sure the seniors and families who depend on us won’t be left without support.”To sustain and strengthen these efforts for the future, Barton’s Institutional Advancement division is actively developing next steps and launching new fundraising campaigns. Director of Grants Krystall Barnes is aggressively pursuing state, federal, and foundation grants.“Securing new funding is critical,” she said. “This was a big cut nationwide, and more than 1,000 programs were eliminated across the country.”Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Lindsey Bogner is working alongside Hogg and community partners to identify new funding sources, reduce program costs, and sustain these critical services. The Barton Foundation has launched a dedicated fund and capital campaign to support all programs under Volunteers in Action, collaborating closely with local donors to ensure continued service.“We know how important these programs are to our community,” she said. “We are actively seeking ways to partner, fundraise, and innovate so that the residents who count on these services won’t be left behind.”Community members interested in helping can contact the Barton Foundation at (620) 786-1136 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>.

Grant cut to support Barton Co. RSVP, Meals on Wheels

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

In February, we officially launched the&nbsp;“Elevate GBK Beyond Today” Capital Campaign, and thanks to the incredible generosity of over&nbsp;30 local businesses and investors, we’ve already raised&nbsp;$801,000&nbsp;toward our&nbsp;$1 million goal. This bold five-year strategy is about strengthening our economy and&nbsp;workforce, and investing in a thriving Great Bend — and we’re nearly there.

Whether you’re a one-person shop or a regional employer,&nbsp;no amount is too small. It truly takes all of us — small and large — to build a stronger Great Bend.As Chairman of Board&nbsp;Rob Bauer shared during the launch, this campaign is more than a fundraiser — it’s our collective belief in what we can achieve when we invest together. It’s about securing a sustainable, thriving future for Great Bend.

The&nbsp;Elevate GBK&nbsp;campaign funds five core focus areas:• Workforce Development• Business &amp; People Retention• Membership Development &amp; Support• Business &amp; Community Marketing• Business Advocacy

These initiatives were built from the ground up — shaped by over 60 stakeholder interviews and the hard work of 100+ volunteers from our Chamber membership. We are deeply grateful to our investors, volunteers, and our honorary co-chairs for their belief in what’s possible.

📽️&nbsp;Hear why others are investing in the Elevate GBK Strategic Plan:🎥&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/IkTPt8oiXUs?si=vySuixECV5NqS0yU">Watch the testimonial video →</a>&nbsp;and hear from Proper Boards &amp; Picnics' Paxton Rein, Stueder Contractors and Co-Chairs Terry and MelEesa Stueder, and MyTown's Mark Mingnenback, also an Honorary Co-Chair.

Want to learn more in a one-on-one setting?We’d love to sit down with you and&nbsp;talk about how your investment — at any level — can make a real difference.

You can also view the full list of investors and entire strategic plan at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://greatbend.org/elevategbk">greatbend.org/elevategbk</a>.

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...In February, we officially launched the&nbsp;“Elevate GBK Beyond Today” Capital Campaign, and thanks to the incredible generosity of over&nbsp;30 local businesses and investors, we’ve already raised&nbsp;$801,000&nbsp;toward our&nbsp;$1 million goal. This bold five-year strategy is about strengthening our economy and&nbsp;workforce, and investing in a thriving Great Bend — and we’re nearly there.But we’re not done yet.Whether you’re a one-person shop or a regional employer,&nbsp;no amount is too small. It truly takes all of us — small and large — to build a stronger Great Bend.As Chairman of Board&nbsp;Rob Bauer shared during the launch, this campaign is more than a fundraiser — it’s our collective belief in what we can achieve when we invest together. It’s about securing a sustainable, thriving future for Great Bend.The&nbsp;Elevate GBK&nbsp;campaign funds five core focus areas:• Workforce Development• Business &amp; People Retention• Membership Development &amp; Support• Business &amp; Community Marketing• Business AdvocacyThese initiatives were built from the ground up — shaped by over 60 stakeholder interviews and the hard work of 100+ volunteers from our Chamber membership. We are deeply grateful to our investors, volunteers, and our honorary co-chairs for their belief in what’s possible.📽️&nbsp;Hear why others are investing in the Elevate GBK Strategic Plan:🎥&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/IkTPt8oiXUs?si=vySuixECV5NqS0yU">Watch the testimonial video →</a>&nbsp;and hear from Proper Boards &amp; Picnics' Paxton Rein, Stueder Contractors and Co-Chairs Terry and MelEesa Stueder, and MyTown's Mark Mingnenback, also an Honorary Co-Chair.Want to learn more in a one-on-one setting?We’d love to sit down with you and&nbsp;talk about how your investment — at any level — can make a real difference.You can also view the full list of investors and entire strategic plan at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://greatbend.org/elevategbk">greatbend.org/elevategbk</a>.

Great Bend Chamber reaches 80% of $1 million campaign

Thursday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 68. North wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. North wind 5 to 9 mph becoming west after midnight.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 79. West wind around 6 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 83.

Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy.

Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 68. North wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. North wind 5 to 9 mph becoming west after midnight.Friday Sunny, with a high near 79. West wind around 6 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 84.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 57.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 83.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy.Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

On May 22, officers with the Great Bend Police Department began investigating a report of auto burglary and theft from a fenced-in business in the 900 block of Macarthur. A short time later, officers discovered a campsite along the shore of Macarthur Lake in Great Bend. Among the campsite, there was a large amount of trash and debris. The lake is managed as a public park and city ordinance prohibits camping or littering in the area. Officers located Ashley Corn, age 40 and Tre Fiesterman, age 26 inhabiting the campsite. While speaking with Corn, officers observed several items that had been reported stolen from the earlier incident.

Detectives arrived on scene and learned of a second location where stolen items from a separate incident were being stored. During the investigation, methamphetamine and marijuana were also located and seized. Both Corn and Fiesterman were arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of bond. Several other items were collected from the campsite, and pictures of these items are included below. Due to the nature of the crimes involved, the possibility exists that some of these items may also have been stolen. If you have any information regarding these items, please contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748462328258.jpeg" alt="Ashley Corn" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Corn</figcaption>
 </figure>On May 22, officers with the Great Bend Police Department began investigating a report of auto burglary and theft from a fenced-in business in the 900 block of Macarthur. A short time later, officers discovered a campsite along the shore of Macarthur Lake in Great Bend. Among the campsite, there was a large amount of trash and debris. The lake is managed as a public park and city ordinance prohibits camping or littering in the area. Officers located Ashley Corn, age 40 and Tre Fiesterman, age 26 inhabiting the campsite. While speaking with Corn, officers observed several items that had been reported stolen from the earlier incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748462349234.jpeg" alt="Trey Fiesterman" />
 <figcaption>Trey Fiesterman</figcaption>
 </figure>Detectives arrived on scene and learned of a second location where stolen items from a separate incident were being stored. During the investigation, methamphetamine and marijuana were also located and seized. Both Corn and Fiesterman were arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of bond. Several other items were collected from the campsite, and pictures of these items are included below. Due to the nature of the crimes involved, the possibility exists that some of these items may also have been stolen. If you have any information regarding these items, please contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120.<figure>
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Two arrested, items recovered from burglary in Great Bend

FUEL Barton County and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invite you to FUEL Casino Night.

&nbsp;Columbus Club | 723 Main Street, Great Bend

Get ready for an evening of high-energy entertainment, networking, and community celebration. Casino Night brings together professionals, leaders, and locals for classic games like blackjack, poker, and roulette — all played with fun money for your chance to win&nbsp;exciting prizes&nbsp;donated by generous local businesses.

Your $50 ticket includes: Entry to the event Dinner and appetizers Starter fun money for the tables

Corporate tables available for $550 (seats 8) and include: Everything listed above Reserved seating Extra play money Drink tickets

All proceeds support FUEL’s mission to empower Great Bend’s emerging professionals through leadership development, networking, and community service.

“This is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community and connection," said Megan Barfield, President/CEO, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.

Get your tickets at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=791033&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1830372&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbend.org&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=6e9758ea02c898576841f96b2999fc83c838311f236ac031f3bbc02031f98ea5">greatbend.org</a>

Interested in FUEL? Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=791033&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1830372&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbend.org%2Ffuel&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=3a4b577389015fb7dc3ca3fe1b2ad4d34fce29e95f9a21cfd8659a645cd1701b">greatbend.org/fuel</a>&nbsp;to learn more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748357453067.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FUEL Barton County and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invite you to FUEL Casino Night.&nbsp;Columbus Club | 723 Main Street, Great BendFriday, June 13, 2025Doors open at 6 p.m.Get ready for an evening of high-energy entertainment, networking, and community celebration. Casino Night brings together professionals, leaders, and locals for classic games like blackjack, poker, and roulette — all played with fun money for your chance to win&nbsp;exciting prizes&nbsp;donated by generous local businesses.Your $50 ticket includes: Entry to the event Dinner and appetizers Starter fun money for the tablesCorporate tables available for $550 (seats 8) and include: Everything listed above Reserved seating Extra play money Drink ticketsAll proceeds support FUEL’s mission to empower Great Bend’s emerging professionals through leadership development, networking, and community service.“This is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community and connection," said Megan Barfield, President/CEO, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.Get your tickets at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=791033&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1830372&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbend.org&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=6e9758ea02c898576841f96b2999fc83c838311f236ac031f3bbc02031f98ea5">greatbend.org</a>Interested in FUEL? Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=791033&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1830372&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbend.org%2Ffuel&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=3a4b577389015fb7dc3ca3fe1b2ad4d34fce29e95f9a21cfd8659a645cd1701b">greatbend.org/fuel</a>&nbsp;to learn more.

FUEL Barton Co. Casino Night is back June 13

Clara Barton Medical Center announced the addition of Melissa Ewing, LCMFT, LCAC, to its team of healthcare professionals. With her background in family therapy and clinical addiction counseling, Ewing will help expand access to mental health care in the Central Kansas region.

Ewing holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Barclay College and a Master’s in Family Therapy from Friends University. She brings a wealth of experience in treating depression, anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, relationship issues, grief, and stress management.

“I’m thrilled to be part of a team that truly values mental health as a vital part of overall wellness,” said Ewing. “The supportive and welcoming culture at Clara Barton has made it easy to feel at home, and I’m excited to begin serving the community I’ve always cared about.”

Melissa grew up in the Central Kansas area and is passionate about giving back to the community that raised her. Together, she and her husband have three adult children and three grandchildren. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys reading, binge-watching The Big Bang Theory, and volunteering with two local nonprofits—Dropping 22 and the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces.

“Melissa’s deep commitment to patient care and her compassionate approach to therapy are a perfect match for Clara Barton’s mission,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the team and know she will make a meaningful impact in the lives of our patients.”

Melissa is a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She finds great reward in helping clients reach those pivotal “aha” moments and feels honored to guide them through their healing journeys.

Melissa will be seeing patients at Both Clara Barton Medical Clinic in Hoisington and Great Bend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748435851608.jpeg" alt="Melissa Ewing, LCMFT, LCAC" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Ewing, LCMFT, LCAC</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSClara Barton Medical Center announced the addition of Melissa Ewing, LCMFT, LCAC, to its team of healthcare professionals. With her background in family therapy and clinical addiction counseling, Ewing will help expand access to mental health care in the Central Kansas region.Ewing holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Barclay College and a Master’s in Family Therapy from Friends University. She brings a wealth of experience in treating depression, anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, relationship issues, grief, and stress management.“I’m thrilled to be part of a team that truly values mental health as a vital part of overall wellness,” said Ewing. “The supportive and welcoming culture at Clara Barton has made it easy to feel at home, and I’m excited to begin serving the community I’ve always cared about.”Melissa grew up in the Central Kansas area and is passionate about giving back to the community that raised her. Together, she and her husband have three adult children and three grandchildren. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys reading, binge-watching The Big Bang Theory, and volunteering with two local nonprofits—Dropping 22 and the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces.“Melissa’s deep commitment to patient care and her compassionate approach to therapy are a perfect match for Clara Barton’s mission,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the team and know she will make a meaningful impact in the lives of our patients.”Melissa is a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She finds great reward in helping clients reach those pivotal “aha” moments and feels honored to guide them through their healing journeys.Melissa will be seeing patients at Both Clara Barton Medical Clinic in Hoisington and Great Bend.&nbsp;

Clara Barton welcomes mental health provider Melissa Ewing

News from the Oil Patch, May 27 John P. Tretbar

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to its lowest total in more than three years. The weekly U.S. tally is down eight oil rigs and two gas rigs for a total of 566, the lowest total since November, 2021. The report shows a drop of nine horizontal rigs. Texas is down five.&nbsp; Oklahoma, New Mexico and North Dakota are each down two rigs.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up one in eastern Kansas at eight rigs, and down two west of Wichita at eleven active rigs. The tally is down 21 percent from a month ago and 41 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on two leases in Finney County.

Kansas operators completed 17 new wells last week, with eight in eastern Kansas and nine west of Wichita, including one in Finney County. Independent Oil Gas Service reports 485 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 512 a year ago.

Regulators in The Sunflower State okayed eight new drilling locations statewide. There are two new permits east of Wichita, and six in Western Kansas, including two in Ellis County and one in Barton County. That's 271 so far this year, compared to 377 last year at this time.

Three years ago, the United States sold some 300 million barrels from crude oil from our strategic reserves, in an effort to tame oil prices. Today, prices are $35 per barrel cheaper, and our refill savings are approaching one BILLION dollars.&nbsp; The Energy Department added 800,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves last week, raising the total over 400 million barrels (down from over 600 million at its peak). The government has refilled 36.5 million barrels since last April. Current prices are more than $30 less than what we received selling those barrels.

Domestic crude inventories rose more than a million barrels to just over 443 million, as of May 16. The government reports stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average.US crude production rose slightly last week but remains below 13.4 million barrels a day for a second week. The Energy Information Administration reports average output of just over 13.39 million barrels per day, up five million daily barrels from a week ago.

Crude imports outpaced exports by two and a half million barrels a day in the week through May 16. Both are up for the week but down from a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports just over six million barrels a day in crude imports, up 200,000 barrels a day from last week, but down more than 600,000 barrels a day from the same week last year. Crude exports averaged a little over 3.5 million barrels a day, up slightly from last week, but down 1.2 million daily barrels from a year ago. Compared to last year at this time, the four-week average imports are down 13% or nearly a million daily barrels. The four week average is down 600,000 barrels a day from a year ago, or about two percent.

Texas regulators now say oil-and-gas drillers must demonstrate that the wastewater they're producing and then injecting back into the ground is staying where they inject it. The Railroad Commission of Texas, the state's oil and gas regulator, is now acknowledging the continued and growing demand for underground saltwater disposal capacity in the prolific Permian Basin. Last week they also noted the physical limitations of the basin's disposal reservoirs. Operators must now prove in advance that the proposed injection zone is up to the task of retaining waste, and that other wells within a two-mile area won't cause problems.

It's getting expensive for operators in Colorado who continue to violate a new energy reporting law. A new probe shows 20 oil and gas companies in Colorado have failed to report the chemicals they used in drilling and fracking operations as required by the law. No one disputes the findings. The law allows the state to fine oil and gas companies $200 a day for failure to report those chemicals yet no one is explaining why upwards of $37 Million in fines have not been collected. Local media assert the government has not collected any fines or penalties for noncompliance.

Canada's only east-west oil pipeline is completing it's first year since the government expansion that tripled its capacity. The lion's share of that extra crude is going to China. About 90% of the crude oil produced in Canada, about four million barrels a day, winds up in the United States from pipelines moving oil from north to south. The Trans Mountain Pipeline moves oil west from the oil fields of western Canada to the Pacific Coast. The pipeline can move 890,000 barrels a day at full capacity. Since last May, Canada shipped about 207,000 barrels per day of Trans-Mountain crude to China. US operators took about 173,000 barrels a day. The Canadian government expects the pipeline to reach 84% capacity this year, and 92% next year.

Iraq says it welcomes new oil deals with the US in the disputed Kurdistan region, but says those deals must go through Iraq's federal government. Baghdad says two huge new US deals in the semi-autonomous region violate Iraq's constitution. Kurdistan's government signed and announced the deals last week. The two agreements are worth a combined $110 BILLION, and involve about five trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 900 million barrels of recoverable oil.

The world's fastest-growing economy is also among the largest importers of crude oil. Increasing Russia sanctions, and US tariffs, are moving a lot of that business our way.&nbsp; India's energy minister says they are ready to increase oil imports from the United States. India has been buying a lot of oil from Russia lately, despite ongoing international pressure. Minister Singh Puri says pricing and availability, and not ideology, will drive his energy decisions. But he did acknowledge increasing US imports would ease the Trump Administration's tariff and trade deficit concerns. India has the world's fastest growing major economy, annual energy needs topping $150 BILLION, and had a US trade deficit of well over $45 billion last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, May 27 John P. TretbarThe Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to its lowest total in more than three years. The weekly U.S. tally is down eight oil rigs and two gas rigs for a total of 566, the lowest total since November, 2021. The report shows a drop of nine horizontal rigs. Texas is down five.&nbsp; Oklahoma, New Mexico and North Dakota are each down two rigs.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up one in eastern Kansas at eight rigs, and down two west of Wichita at eleven active rigs. The tally is down 21 percent from a month ago and 41 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on two leases in Finney County.Kansas operators completed 17 new wells last week, with eight in eastern Kansas and nine west of Wichita, including one in Finney County. Independent Oil Gas Service reports 485 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 512 a year ago.Regulators in The Sunflower State okayed eight new drilling locations statewide. There are two new permits east of Wichita, and six in Western Kansas, including two in Ellis County and one in Barton County. That's 271 so far this year, compared to 377 last year at this time.Three years ago, the United States sold some 300 million barrels from crude oil from our strategic reserves, in an effort to tame oil prices. Today, prices are $35 per barrel cheaper, and our refill savings are approaching one BILLION dollars.&nbsp; The Energy Department added 800,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves last week, raising the total over 400 million barrels (down from over 600 million at its peak). The government has refilled 36.5 million barrels since last April. Current prices are more than $30 less than what we received selling those barrels.Domestic crude inventories rose more than a million barrels to just over 443 million, as of May 16. The government reports stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average.US crude production rose slightly last week but remains below 13.4 million barrels a day for a second week. The Energy Information Administration reports average output of just over 13.39 million barrels per day, up five million daily barrels from a week ago.Crude imports outpaced exports by two and a half million barrels a day in the week through May 16. Both are up for the week but down from a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports just over six million barrels a day in crude imports, up 200,000 barrels a day from last week, but down more than 600,000 barrels a day from the same week last year. Crude exports averaged a little over 3.5 million barrels a day, up slightly from last week, but down 1.2 million daily barrels from a year ago. Compared to last year at this time, the four-week average imports are down 13% or nearly a million daily barrels. The four week average is down 600,000 barrels a day from a year ago, or about two percent.Texas regulators now say oil-and-gas drillers must demonstrate that the wastewater they're producing and then injecting back into the ground is staying where they inject it. The Railroad Commission of Texas, the state's oil and gas regulator, is now acknowledging the continued and growing demand for underground saltwater disposal capacity in the prolific Permian Basin. Last week they also noted the physical limitations of the basin's disposal reservoirs. Operators must now prove in advance that the proposed injection zone is up to the task of retaining waste, and that other wells within a two-mile area won't cause problems.It's getting expensive for operators in Colorado who continue to violate a new energy reporting law. A new probe shows 20 oil and gas companies in Colorado have failed to report the chemicals they used in drilling and fracking operations as required by the law. No one disputes the findings. The law allows the state to fine oil and gas companies $200 a day for failure to report those chemicals yet no one is explaining why upwards of $37 Million in fines have not been collected. Local media assert the government has not collected any fines or penalties for noncompliance.Canada's only east-west oil pipeline is completing it's first year since the government expansion that tripled its capacity. The lion's share of that extra crude is going to China. About 90% of the crude oil produced in Canada, about four million barrels a day, winds up in the United States from pipelines moving oil from north to south. The Trans Mountain Pipeline moves oil west from the oil fields of western Canada to the Pacific Coast. The pipeline can move 890,000 barrels a day at full capacity. Since last May, Canada shipped about 207,000 barrels per day of Trans-Mountain crude to China. US operators took about 173,000 barrels a day. The Canadian government expects the pipeline to reach 84% capacity this year, and 92% next year.Iraq says it welcomes new oil deals with the US in the disputed Kurdistan region, but says those deals must go through Iraq's federal government. Baghdad says two huge new US deals in the semi-autonomous region violate Iraq's constitution. Kurdistan's government signed and announced the deals last week. The two agreements are worth a combined $110 BILLION, and involve about five trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 900 million barrels of recoverable oil.The world's fastest-growing economy is also among the largest importers of crude oil. Increasing Russia sanctions, and US tariffs, are moving a lot of that business our way.&nbsp; India's energy minister says they are ready to increase oil imports from the United States. India has been buying a lot of oil from Russia lately, despite ongoing international pressure. Minister Singh Puri says pricing and availability, and not ideology, will drive his energy decisions. But he did acknowledge increasing US imports would ease the Trump Administration's tariff and trade deficit concerns. India has the world's fastest growing major economy, annual energy needs topping $150 BILLION, and had a US trade deficit of well over $45 billion last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Rig counts drop to 3-year low

From the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office...

The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred on Sunday May 25, at approximately 1:30 a.m. following the Crazy Horse 2.0 Concert during the Santa Fe Trail Days. 

A vehicle of interest entered the rodeo grounds in Larned near Toles and 18th Street. The vehicle of interest is a dark colored pickup truck. This vehicle drove by the J.A. Haas Building and then through the Jordan Park parking lot before returning to Toles Avenue southbound. 

Several minutes after the vehicle left the Jordan Park parking lot, three gun shots occurred.

If anyone observed this vehicle of interest, or has information regarding the shooting that occurred, please contact the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office at (620) 285-2211 for Pawnee County Case Number 25-182 or Pawnee County Dispatch at (620) 285-8545.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748447263502.jpeg" alt="Investigation area" />
 <figcaption>Investigation area</figcaption>
 </figure>From the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office...The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred on Sunday May 25, at approximately 1:30 a.m. following the Crazy Horse 2.0 Concert during the Santa Fe Trail Days. A vehicle of interest entered the rodeo grounds in Larned near Toles and 18th Street. The vehicle of interest is a dark colored pickup truck. This vehicle drove by the J.A. Haas Building and then through the Jordan Park parking lot before returning to Toles Avenue southbound. Several minutes after the vehicle left the Jordan Park parking lot, three gun shots occurred.If anyone observed this vehicle of interest, or has information regarding the shooting that occurred, please contact the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office at (620) 285-2211 for Pawnee County Case Number 25-182 or Pawnee County Dispatch at (620) 285-8545.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid0X39HaUNqi1xWsXMwQmrtWM4eNn5anEcAjFrhwXZ4MXkLWVHC4HaSRwYfmFN5842Pl%26id%3D61564865264614&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="0" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Law enforcement investigating a shooting in Larned

Several members of the mobile crisis response (MCR) team at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation recently attended a meeting that attracted many of their peers to Great Bend from throughout Kansas.

Laura Patzner, crisis case manager, said it was gratifying to learn from these other professionals that the local team is off to a good start.

“While we provide this service on a limited basis so far, we hope it will be available 24/7 within a year or less,” Patzner said. “The service has been up and running for a while now but we need to add to our staff.

“We are actively recruiting therapists who can be part of this mobile team,” she continued. “This is so important because sometimes those who are struggling with behavioral-health concerns cannot come to us because of a lack of transportation or other issues.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748357006424.jpeg" alt="Laura Patzner was one of six representatives of The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation to attend a recent meeting about mobile crisis response. Patzner is crisis case manager at The Center." />
 <figcaption>Laura Patzner was one of six representatives of The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation to attend a recent meeting about mobile crisis response. Patzner is crisis case manager at The Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSSeveral members of the mobile crisis response (MCR) team at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation recently attended a meeting that attracted many of their peers to Great Bend from throughout Kansas.Laura Patzner, crisis case manager, said it was gratifying to learn from these other professionals that the local team is off to a good start.“While we provide this service on a limited basis so far, we hope it will be available 24/7 within a year or less,” Patzner said. “The service has been up and running for a while now but we need to add to our staff.“We are actively recruiting therapists who can be part of this mobile team,” she continued. “This is so important because sometimes those who are struggling with behavioral-health concerns cannot come to us because of a lack of transportation or other issues.”Patzner emphasized that The Center, 5815 Broadway, collaborates with many local and area entities on this and other services.“One thing is always clear: mobile crisis response is a collaborative process,” she commented. “We are so fortunate to have many valuable community partners in our four-county service area.”These partners include law-enforcement officers, Juvenile Services and many medical facilities.“We need a buy-in from all these entities and we have it,” Patzner said. “We couldn’t ask for better support.”Patzner was one of six staff members at The Center to attend the May 14 meeting, which was organized by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS). Participants included crisis-team therapists and case managers, along with a representative of The Center’s Substance Use Disorder department.“The main purpose was to bring crisis teams together to provide an overall view of MCR across Kansas,” Patzner noted. “We learned from long-established programs in rural and urban areas.“They have worked the kinks out and we can learn from their experiences. It was great to see that mobile crisis response is one thing everyone can get behind. Everybody is willing to support this process because they all realize its importance.”Background/numbersWhen the formation of the local MCR team was announced last fall, Tracie Haselhorst, The Center’s clinical director, noted that “the crises people face entail concerns that are new or escalating. There could also be the threat of suicide.“They might have been able to cope yesterday but need help today. The main goal is to prevent a trip to the emergency room and/or jail.”The recent day-long meeting was held at the Great Bend Events Center where topics included: the “why” of MCR and its importance; a primer on crisis continuum of care in Kansas; and roll-out and delivery of MCR. Panel discussions also were on the agenda.Crisis phone numbers include: The Center’s crisis lines, 620-792-2544 and 1-800-875-2544; National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255; and the national suicide/crisis number, 988. A text to 741741 also is available.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.