By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

After Christina Hayes resigned in February after 14 years serving as the Great Bend
Community Coordinator and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Director, she
suggested dividing the position into separate roles going forward. 

The City of
Great Bend will separate the two positions as City Administrator Logan Burns
officially announced Monday night that Amanda Gaddis has been named CVB
Director.


"I'm proud to announce we have promoted Amanda Gaddis to this position," said Burns. "She's been with the city for a little over three years now. I'm excited to see where she continues to take this CVB position."

Gaddis will also assume the title of Events Center Manager. Gaddis started with
the city in February 2022 and served as the CVB Visitors Service Representative
prior to being named director. 


Burns said the city is refining the job description for the community
coordinator position, and he hopes to have the opening out this month to start
receiving applications.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744129583850.jpeg" alt="Amanda Gaddis has been named the new Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Director." />
 <figcaption>Amanda Gaddis has been named the new Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Director.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter Christina Hayes resigned in February after 14 years serving as the Great Bend
Community Coordinator and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Director, she
suggested dividing the position into separate roles going forward. The City of
Great Bend will separate the two positions as City Administrator Logan Burns
officially announced Monday night that Amanda Gaddis has been named CVB
Director.
"I'm proud to announce we have promoted Amanda Gaddis to this position," said Burns. "She's been with the city for a little over three years now. I'm excited to see where she continues to take this CVB position."Gaddis will also assume the title of Events Center Manager. Gaddis started with
the city in February 2022 and served as the CVB Visitors Service Representative
prior to being named director. 
Burns said the city is refining the job description for the community
coordinator position, and he hopes to have the opening out this month to start
receiving applications.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Amanda Gaddis named next Great Bend CVB Director

The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) announced its participation in the first-ever Big Bend Bash, hosted by Great Bend Alive and the City of Great Bend. Set for Saturday, June 7, the Big Bend Bash will transform downtown Great Bend into a lively street festival packed with activities for all ages.

Adding to the excitement, BAM will bring a vibrant pop-up art gallery, the "Big Bend Art Walk" — formerly known as Art Alley — to showcase the incredible talent of local and regional artists. Now in its fourth year, this grassroots art competition has become a community favorite.

“We’re so excited to add to the vibe and energy of the Big Bend Bash by bringing art into the mix,” said Andrea Bauer, a BAM volunteer. “We hope the addition of age categories will entice more artists to participate. Students can enter their school art projects, and amateurs and professionals alike can bring their own masterpieces.”

Kansas artists interested in participating are encouraged to complete the Artist Entry Form by&nbsp;May 21, to be considered for the show. The entry form can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/contests">www.BartonArtsMovement.com/contests</a>.&nbsp;Prizes will be awarded in four age categories, in addition to the highlight anticipated&nbsp;People's Choice Bammy Award.&nbsp;

The Barton Arts Movement is powered by dedicated volunteers and operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the Golden Belt Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. To learn more about BAM and how to get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744062395110.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) announced its participation in the first-ever Big Bend Bash, hosted by Great Bend Alive and the City of Great Bend. Set for Saturday, June 7, the Big Bend Bash will transform downtown Great Bend into a lively street festival packed with activities for all ages.Adding to the excitement, BAM will bring a vibrant pop-up art gallery, the "Big Bend Art Walk" — formerly known as Art Alley — to showcase the incredible talent of local and regional artists. Now in its fourth year, this grassroots art competition has become a community favorite.“We’re so excited to add to the vibe and energy of the Big Bend Bash by bringing art into the mix,” said Andrea Bauer, a BAM volunteer. “We hope the addition of age categories will entice more artists to participate. Students can enter their school art projects, and amateurs and professionals alike can bring their own masterpieces.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744062428943.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas artists interested in participating are encouraged to complete the Artist Entry Form by&nbsp;May 21, to be considered for the show. The entry form can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/contests">www.BartonArtsMovement.com/contests</a>.&nbsp;Prizes will be awarded in four age categories, in addition to the highlight anticipated&nbsp;People's Choice Bammy Award.&nbsp;The Barton Arts Movement is powered by dedicated volunteers and operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the Golden Belt Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. To learn more about BAM and how to get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.

Barton Arts Movement joins Big Bend Bash w/ 'Big Bend Art Walk'

The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Flowers, Flowers, and More Flowers” on Wednesday, April 9, from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; If you have a flower garden, containers or just love flowers, make sure to attend this program.&nbsp; Kelly Moeder will be showing us some beautiful annuals and perennial flowers that you may be interested in.&nbsp; She will cover planting location, watering, general care, and other flower topics. &nbsp;Please bring any questions you may have about growing flowers.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602181603891.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “Flowers, Flowers, and More Flowers” on Wednesday, April 9, from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; If you have a flower garden, containers or just love flowers, make sure to attend this program.&nbsp; Kelly Moeder will be showing us some beautiful annuals and perennial flowers that you may be interested in.&nbsp; She will cover planting location, watering, general care, and other flower topics. &nbsp;Please bring any questions you may have about growing flowers.A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/">www.greatbendrec.com</a>.&nbsp; Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

GBRC: Stop 'N Learn - Flowers, flowers and more flowers

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. West wind 10 to 16 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 38. North northwest wind 9 to 14 mph becoming light north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 73.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Breezy.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 52.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 77. West wind 10 to 16 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 38. North northwest wind 9 to 14 mph becoming light north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 73.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Breezy.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 52.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford-Towns and Barton Community College Fine Arts staff Dr. Alejandro Avila and Danika Bielek and students Ella McNett and Taylor Wells that aired April 7, 2025.

The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford-Towns and Barton Community College Fine Arts staff Dr. Alejandro Avila and Danika Bielek and students Ella McNett and Taylor Wells that aired April 7, 2025.<div><iframe title="Cougar Pause: Barton CC Fine Arts staff Dr. Avila & Danika Bielek" 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=577zi-1873c18-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 Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Barton CC Fine Arts staff Dr. Avila & Danika Bielek

Staffing and weather. Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said
those are the two biggest challenges the city faces when trying to burn the
tree debris at the compost site. The Great Bend City Council took a step to
alleviate some of those challenges Monday when they approved the purchase of an
air burner firebox for $165,366. 

Since the inception of the compost site, the
city has burned tree debris in a berm area. Cauley said the right wind
conditions are needed to burn and a busy staff must watch the fire 24 hours
while the fire is burning.


"With summer coming on, our crew does mosquito fogging as well," said Cauley. "If you do a burn, you're applying that much burden on them for the extra overtime. When we mosquito fog, we do it from 8 p.m. to midnight. You're looking at crew that's putting in a lot of overtime during the summer if we're able to burn."

The air burner is an enclosed steel box that is over 24 feet long and seven feet
wide. The equipment has an air curtain that traps smoke and increases the interior
temperature to approximately 1,800 degrees. 

Depending on the wind direction,
the city can become inundated with the smell of smoke with the current burns. With
the air burner, once it is up to temperature, there is no smoke.


The system can burn approximately three to four tons of material an hour.
Cauley said staff will be able to burn during the day and within two hours of
the end of the day, begin the process of snuffing the fire. This will eliminate
the overtime hours of needing staff to stand by and also reduce stockpiling.


"If our area is fully loaded with tree debris, by my approximations, it would take about 70 hours to burn the full area," said Cauley. "With this burner able to do it on a regular basis, it should help us keep our stockpile low for emergency situations like we had in 2023."

Cauley expected Air Burners Inc. to ship the air burner within six weeks after
the system is built.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744085788268.jpeg" alt="Rendering of the air burner firebox the City of Great Bend purchased to burn tree debris at the compost site." />
 <figcaption>Rendering of the air burner firebox the City of Great Bend purchased to burn tree debris at the compost site.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostStaffing and weather. Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said
those are the two biggest challenges the city faces when trying to burn the
tree debris at the compost site. The Great Bend City Council took a step to
alleviate some of those challenges Monday when they approved the purchase of an
air burner firebox for $165,366. Since the inception of the compost site, the
city has burned tree debris in a berm area. Cauley said the right wind
conditions are needed to burn and a busy staff must watch the fire 24 hours
while the fire is burning.
"With summer coming on, our crew does mosquito fogging as well," said Cauley. "If you do a burn, you're applying that much burden on them for the extra overtime. When we mosquito fog, we do it from 8 p.m. to midnight. You're looking at crew that's putting in a lot of overtime during the summer if we're able to burn."The air burner is an enclosed steel box that is over 24 feet long and seven feet
wide. The equipment has an air curtain that traps smoke and increases the interior
temperature to approximately 1,800 degrees. Depending on the wind direction,
the city can become inundated with the smell of smoke with the current burns. With
the air burner, once it is up to temperature, there is no smoke.
The system can burn approximately three to four tons of material an hour.
Cauley said staff will be able to burn during the day and within two hours of
the end of the day, begin the process of snuffing the fire. This will eliminate
the overtime hours of needing staff to stand by and also reduce stockpiling.
"If our area is fully loaded with tree debris, by my approximations, it would take about 70 hours to burn the full area," said Cauley. "With this burner able to do it on a regular basis, it should help us keep our stockpile low for emergency situations like we had in 2023."Cauley expected Air Burners Inc. to ship the air burner within six weeks after
the system is built.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend solves smoke & staffing issues for compost burns

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place March 19, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Johnson ‑&nbsp;46 TE‑0512‑01 ‑ Sunflower Road, from 103rd Street to 91st Street in De Soto, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 1.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $734,655.90.

Johnson ‑&nbsp;35‑46 KA‑7190‑02 ‑ I‑35, from 95th Street to the I‑635/I‑35 junction, guard fence, 7.0 miles, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $787,878.78.

Johnson ‑&nbsp;435‑46 KA‑7188‑01 ‑ I‑435, bridge #304 on Nall Avenue located 1.02 miles east of U.S. 169, bridge repair, Taylor Contracting LLC, Nashville, Tennessee, $73,070.00.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 C‑5242‑01 ‑ RS 381, from 0.1 mile south of 189th Street to 0.2 mile north of 187th Street, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Leavenworth Excavating &amp; Equipment Company Inc &amp; Affiliate, Leavenworth, Kansas, $767,776.69.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 C‑5119‑01 ‑ RS 381, from 1.10 miles north of Parallel Road to 0.05 miles north of Mitchell Road, grading and surfacing, 1.1 miles, Leavenworth Excavating &amp; Equipment Company Inc &amp; Affiliate, Leavenworth, Kansas, $1,687,217.77

Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5243‑01 ‑ RS 538, from Kanon Ridge Lane to Elizas Road, grading and surfacing, 0.7 mile, Ebert Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $230,287.94.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑7550‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning 0.1 mile west of 7th Street east to the Kansas/Missouri state line, pavement patching, 2.2 miles, Realm Construction Inc., Blue Springs, Missouri, $1,922,170.42.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑7548‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning east of east approach of bridge #211 and #212 over ramps to eastbound I‑70/I‑435, then east to 0.28 mile west of 78th Street, pavement patching, 2.6 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $6,817,415.31.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;670‑105 KA‑7549‑01 ‑ I‑670, beginning at the I‑670/I‑70 junction east to the Kansas/Missouri state line, pavement patching, 1.6 miles, Realm Construction Inc., Blue Springs, Missouri, $944,604.75.

Dickinson ‑&nbsp;21 C‑5282‑01 – Bridge, over Turkey Creek on 1100 Avenue located 2.6 miles east of K‑15, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,264,110.00.

Ottawa ‑&nbsp;18‑72 KA‑6971‑01 ‑ K‑18, bridge #016 over Antelope Creek located 4.16 miles east of K‑106, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,038,662.90

Smith ‑&nbsp;204‑92 KA‑5988‑01 ‑ K‑204, from the west city limits to U.S. 281 in Smith Center, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $3,245,551.00.

Kiowa ‑&nbsp;183‑49 KA‑5763‑01 ‑ U.S. 183, bridge #014 over East Fork Rattlesnake Creek located 11.87 miles north of the Comanche county line, bridge replacement, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $2,047,254.26.

Pratt ‑&nbsp;76 C‑5264‑01 ‑ Paved roads, east of U.S. 281, pavement marking, 71.0 miles, Century Traffic LLC, Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $422,385.25.

Rice ‑&nbsp;56‑80 KA‑5733‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, bridge #001 over Spring Creek Drainage located 6.85 miles east of the Barton County line, bridge replacement, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $1,849,842.21.

Rush ‑&nbsp;183‑83 KA‑5735‑01 ‑ U.S. 183, bridge #003 over Walnut Creek Drainage located 0.05 mile north of Cherry Street in Rush Center, bridge replacement, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $2,520,670.68.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place March 19, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastJohnson ‑&nbsp;46 TE‑0512‑01 ‑ Sunflower Road, from 103rd Street to 91st Street in De Soto, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 1.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $734,655.90.Johnson ‑&nbsp;35‑46 KA‑7190‑02 ‑ I‑35, from 95th Street to the I‑635/I‑35 junction, guard fence, 7.0 miles, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $787,878.78.Johnson ‑&nbsp;435‑46 KA‑7188‑01 ‑ I‑435, bridge #304 on Nall Avenue located 1.02 miles east of U.S. 169, bridge repair, Taylor Contracting LLC, Nashville, Tennessee, $73,070.00.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 C‑5242‑01 ‑ RS 381, from 0.1 mile south of 189th Street to 0.2 mile north of 187th Street, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Leavenworth Excavating &amp; Equipment Company Inc &amp; Affiliate, Leavenworth, Kansas, $767,776.69.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 C‑5119‑01 ‑ RS 381, from 1.10 miles north of Parallel Road to 0.05 miles north of Mitchell Road, grading and surfacing, 1.1 miles, Leavenworth Excavating &amp; Equipment Company Inc &amp; Affiliate, Leavenworth, Kansas, $1,687,217.77Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5243‑01 ‑ RS 538, from Kanon Ridge Lane to Elizas Road, grading and surfacing, 0.7 mile, Ebert Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $230,287.94.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑7550‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning 0.1 mile west of 7th Street east to the Kansas/Missouri state line, pavement patching, 2.2 miles, Realm Construction Inc., Blue Springs, Missouri, $1,922,170.42.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;70‑105 KA‑7548‑01 ‑ I‑70, beginning east of east approach of bridge #211 and #212 over ramps to eastbound I‑70/I‑435, then east to 0.28 mile west of 78th Street, pavement patching, 2.6 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $6,817,415.31.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;670‑105 KA‑7549‑01 ‑ I‑670, beginning at the I‑670/I‑70 junction east to the Kansas/Missouri state line, pavement patching, 1.6 miles, Realm Construction Inc., Blue Springs, Missouri, $944,604.75.District Two — North CentralDickinson ‑&nbsp;21 C‑5282‑01 – Bridge, over Turkey Creek on 1100 Avenue located 2.6 miles east of K‑15, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,264,110.00.Ottawa ‑&nbsp;18‑72 KA‑6971‑01 ‑ K‑18, bridge #016 over Antelope Creek located 4.16 miles east of K‑106, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,038,662.90District Three — NorthwestSmith ‑&nbsp;204‑92 KA‑5988‑01 ‑ K‑204, from the west city limits to U.S. 281 in Smith Center, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $3,245,551.00.District Five — South CentralKiowa ‑&nbsp;183‑49 KA‑5763‑01 ‑ U.S. 183, bridge #014 over East Fork Rattlesnake Creek located 11.87 miles north of the Comanche county line, bridge replacement, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $2,047,254.26.Pratt ‑&nbsp;76 C‑5264‑01 ‑ Paved roads, east of U.S. 281, pavement marking, 71.0 miles, Century Traffic LLC, Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $422,385.25.Rice ‑&nbsp;56‑80 KA‑5733‑01 ‑ U.S. 56, bridge #001 over Spring Creek Drainage located 6.85 miles east of the Barton County line, bridge replacement, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $1,849,842.21.Rush ‑&nbsp;183‑83 KA‑5735‑01 ‑ U.S. 183, bridge #003 over Walnut Creek Drainage located 0.05 mile north of Cherry Street in Rush Center, bridge replacement, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $2,520,670.68.District Six — Southwest

KDOT announces approved March bids

Several members and former members of local Oxford Houses presented
before the Barton County Commission on Tuesday. The first Oxford House in Great
Bend opened in 2016 to provide transitional living for people in recovery
from alcohol and drug addiction. 

Albert, an Oxford House resident, said the mission
of the houses is to provide a supportive, drug- and alcohol-free environment for
people recovering from substance addiction.


"I've been in trouble in this town for a long time and going down the wrong path," said Albert. "I've used drugs since I was 12 years old. Now that I'm in Oxford, I have structure, hope and a reason to feel like I can live again. This place has done a lot for me. The brothers that I live with, I love them like they are my brothers. This saved my life."

The houses are not a boarding house or a halfway house, but a home run
democratically by the service participants themselves. There are three Oxford houses for males and one for females in Great Bend.

Commissioner Barb Esfeld
remembered years ago the urge to bring an Oxford House to Great Bend after
addiction struck two of her family members.


"Both of my boys were in addiction, something not easy for me to say," said Esfeld. "They both own their own their homes right now and have their families intact. One of them went through Oxford House for 12 months and thank goodness it worked for him."

Reported statistics state if addicts stay in an Oxford House for at least 18
months and actively work a program of recovery, there is an 87.7% chance of not
reusing drugs or alcohol.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"All of the other proclamations that we have been signing off on the last two weeks tie to Oxford House," added Esfeld. "Every one of you and the lives that you get to enjoy now is better for our community."

Listen below to the discussion on Oxford House from the Barton County Commission meeting on April 8, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744128085196.png" alt="Residents from Oxford Houses in Great Bend shared their stories of addiction recovery at the Barton County Commission meeting Tuesday, April 8, 2025." />
 <figcaption>Residents from Oxford Houses in Great Bend shared their stories of addiction recovery at the Barton County Commission meeting Tuesday, April 8, 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostSeveral members and former members of local Oxford Houses presented
before the Barton County Commission on Tuesday. The first Oxford House in Great
Bend opened in 2016 to provide transitional living for people in recovery
from alcohol and drug addiction. Albert, an Oxford House resident, said the mission
of the houses is to provide a supportive, drug- and alcohol-free environment for
people recovering from substance addiction.
"I've been in trouble in this town for a long time and going down the wrong path," said Albert. "I've used drugs since I was 12 years old. Now that I'm in Oxford, I have structure, hope and a reason to feel like I can live again. This place has done a lot for me. The brothers that I live with, I love them like they are my brothers. This saved my life."The houses are not a boarding house or a halfway house, but a home run
democratically by the service participants themselves. There are three Oxford houses for males and one for females in Great Bend.Commissioner Barb Esfeld
remembered years ago the urge to bring an Oxford House to Great Bend after
addiction struck two of her family members.
"Both of my boys were in addiction, something not easy for me to say," said Esfeld. "They both own their own their homes right now and have their families intact. One of them went through Oxford House for 12 months and thank goodness it worked for him."Reported statistics state if addicts stay in an Oxford House for at least 18
months and actively work a program of recovery, there is an 87.7% chance of not
reusing drugs or alcohol.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"All of the other proclamations that we have been signing off on the last two weeks tie to Oxford House," added Esfeld. "Every one of you and the lives that you get to enjoy now is better for our community."Listen below to the discussion on Oxford House from the Barton County Commission meeting on April 8, 2025.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2073766144&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/oxford-house-discussion-4825" title="Oxford House discussion (4/8/25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Oxford House discussion (4/8/25)</a></div></div>

🎧Emotional success stories of Oxford House residents in Barton Co.

<ul>
 <li>The City of Garfield is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 at 1 p.m. at the Gazebo Park.&nbsp; The hunt will last until all of the eggs are gone.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Eggplosion at the Burdett City Park for children up to 5th grade on April 19.&nbsp; Registration is at 11:30 am. The Easter egg hunt will begin at 11:45.&nbsp; Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served at noon.&nbsp; Games and a bounce house (weather permitting) will follow.</li>
 </ul>

Pair of Easter egg hunts in Pawnee County

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/7)

At 8:17 a.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 2260 NW 90
Avenue in Russell.

At 8:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 114 on
N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington.

At 1:37 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 200
block of SE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 7:49 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 178 on
NW K-96 Highway.

At 8:18 p.m. a fire was reported at 340 NE 50 Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/7)

At 6:54 a.m. a driving complaint of a silver Dodge pickup
was made at 301 Maple Street.

At 8:26 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 3004 16th
Street.

At 8:47 a.m. an officer checked an illegally parked vehicle
at 2027 Morton. The vehicle was moved.

At 9 a.m. a report of overdose/poisoning was made at 4200 10th
Street.

At 1:05 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1029 Van Buren
Street.

At 1:29 p.m. an accident was reported at 1017 Harrison
Street.

At 3:48 p.m. an accident was reported in the 3600 block of
19th Street.

At 4:08 p.m. a vehicle weaving in and out of traffic was reported
at 10th &amp; Frey.

At 4:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 2100 16th
Street.

At 4:34 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Harrison.

At 5:17 p.m. loud music was reported at 700 Stone. Music was
turned down.

At 5:39 p.m. a vehicle with loud exhaust in the area was
reported at 8th &amp; Stone.

At 6:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1300 Stone.

At 6:55 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, wanted
Jorge Aguilera-Castillo trespassed from the business.

At 7 p.m. loud music was reported at 700 Stone.

At 10:41 p.m. a traffic arrest of Richard Etim was reported
for driving while habitual violator at 807 10th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/7)Gas Leak / SpillAt 8:17 a.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 2260 NW 90
Avenue in Russell.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 114 on
N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington.Cattle OutAt 1:37 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 200
block of SE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:49 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 178 on
NW K-96 Highway.FireAt 8:18 p.m. a fire was reported at 340 NE 50 Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/7)Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 6:54 a.m. a driving complaint of a silver Dodge pickup
was made at 301 Maple Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:26 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 3004 16th
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 8:47 a.m. an officer checked an illegally parked vehicle
at 2027 Morton. The vehicle was moved.Overdose / PoisoningAt 9 a.m. a report of overdose/poisoning was made at 4200 10th
Street.Sick PersonAt 1:05 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1029 Van Buren
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 1:29 p.m. an accident was reported at 1017 Harrison
Street.At 3:48 p.m. an accident was reported in the 3600 block of
19th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:08 p.m. a vehicle weaving in and out of traffic was reported
at 10th &amp; Frey.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 2100 16th
Street.At 4:34 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Harrison.Noise ComplaintAt 5:17 p.m. loud music was reported at 700 Stone. Music was
turned down.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:39 p.m. a vehicle with loud exhaust in the area was
reported at 8th &amp; Stone.Unconscious / FaintingAt 6:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1300 Stone.Trespassing / CriminalAt 6:55 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, wanted
Jorge Aguilera-Castillo trespassed from the business.Noise ComplaintAt 7 p.m. loud music was reported at 700 Stone.Traffic ArrestAt 10:41 p.m. a traffic arrest of Richard Etim was reported
for driving while habitual violator at 807 10th Street.

Cop Shop (4/7)

BOOKED: Makayla L. Vanaman on Barton County District Court
case for purchase or consumption of alcoholic beverage by a minor (18&gt;21)
with no bond.

BOOKED: Susan Mead on Ellis County District Court warrant
for burglary and theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Brendon S. Dry on Saline County District Court
warrant for failure to appear, bond set at $1,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Malachi Hicks on Barton County District Court warrant
for contempt of court with cash only bond of $367.

BOOKED: Richard A. Etim on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for operating motor vehicle while habitual, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour
OR.

RELEASED: Devonte M. Lewis on Great Bend Municipal Court
warrant for contempt of court, indirect by order of the court.

RELEASED: Makayla L. Vanaman on BCDC warrant for purchase or
consumption of alcohol beverage by a minor (18&gt;21) by order of the court.

RELEASED: Malachi Hicks on BCDC warrant for contempt of court
with a cash only bond of $367.

RELEASED: Brendon S. Dry on Saline County District Court
warrant for failure to appear, bonded by posting a surety bond of $1,500
through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586549258879.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Makayla L. Vanaman on Barton County District Court
case for purchase or consumption of alcoholic beverage by a minor (18&gt;21)
with no bond.BOOKED: Susan Mead on Ellis County District Court warrant
for burglary and theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Brendon S. Dry on Saline County District Court
warrant for failure to appear, bond set at $1,500 C/S.BOOKED: Malachi Hicks on Barton County District Court warrant
for contempt of court with cash only bond of $367.BOOKED: Richard A. Etim on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for operating motor vehicle while habitual, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour
OR.RELEASED: Devonte M. Lewis on Great Bend Municipal Court
warrant for contempt of court, indirect by order of the court.RELEASED: Makayla L. Vanaman on BCDC warrant for purchase or
consumption of alcohol beverage by a minor (18&gt;21) by order of the court.RELEASED: Malachi Hicks on BCDC warrant for contempt of court
with a cash only bond of $367.RELEASED: Brendon S. Dry on Saline County District Court
warrant for failure to appear, bonded by posting a surety bond of $1,500
through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/7)

The Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s 2025-2026 Membership Campaign is now under way and will continue through April 25. With the theme, “Echoes from the Past,” the concerts for the new season offer music from most genres from 1950s to the 1980s: jazz, cinema, swing, pop, rock and roll, blues, Motown, Doo Wop, Broadway -- plus a brass quintet with a mix of classical, opera, jazz, pop and non-stop showmanship.

The Secret Agents take you on a thrilling high-speed pursuit through ’60s Jazz, Cinema, Pop, Rock, and R&amp;B with a multi-talented vocalist and five-piece band out of Los Angeles.

The Mexican Brass, is a world-class ensemble seamlessly blending virtuosic musicianship, non-stop audience interaction, and showmanship mixing classical with opera, jazz and pop — a terrific blend for every audience.

Direct from London’s West End (Broadway) comes the United Kingdom’s most exciting theatrical vocal group, The Barricade Boys. Each of the four singers has been in the musical, Les Misérables. They blend songs from musicals with the greatest pop and rock to make your heart sing.

This electrifying female-led tribute to The Bee Gees will have you dancing and singing along to all of your favorite hits, from “Stayin’ Alive” to “Night Fever.”

The Suits are comprised of four dynamic gentlemen performing four genres of hit music from the ‘50s through the ‘80s: Motown, Doo Wop, Pop and Rock.

Enjoy an evening of live music and narrated stories of the most influential songwriters who lived in Laurel Canyon, Calif., in the mid ‘60s and ‘70s, including The Mamas &amp; The Papas; The Byrds; Buffalo Springfield; Crosby, Stills, Nash &amp; Young; James Taylor; Carole King; and many more.

Anyone wanting to renew their membership or purchase a new membership in person may come to the GBCCA headquarters in the education wing at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2701 24th St., (using the south entrance) on April 24 from noon to 7 p.m. or April 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Memberships also can be purchased by mailing a check to GBCCA, P.O. Box 1795, Great Bend, KS 67530, or online by credit card at www.goldenbeltcca.org.

The association needs to receive as many renewals as possible during the first two weeks. The third week of the campaign will be devoted to accepting new members, but renewals will still be accepted until the April 25 deadline. Membership cards will be mailed prior to the first concert.

Joining by the April 25 deadline is important. After May 1 the membership fees will increase by $20 per adult.

Membership fees from now through April 25: Adults, $50; Full-time students, $10; Family package (two adults and all dependent children living in same household), $110; and Grandparent package (two adults and four minor grandchildren), $110.

Membership fees after May 1: Adults, $70; Full-time enrolled students, still $10; Family package, $150; and Grandparent package, $150. The association will accept memberships until sold out. Memberships will not be available to purchase at the concerts during the season.

Concerts are for members only. No single concert tickets are available. The concerts are held in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone, beginning at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 6:15 p.m. Because the association encourages young people’s interest and education in music and the performing arts, full-time students will be admitted for a $5 donation. Questions? Call 620-793-2748.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744049225940.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s 2025-2026 Membership Campaign is now under way and will continue through April 25. With the theme, “Echoes from the Past,” the concerts for the new season offer music from most genres from 1950s to the 1980s: jazz, cinema, swing, pop, rock and roll, blues, Motown, Doo Wop, Broadway -- plus a brass quintet with a mix of classical, opera, jazz, pop and non-stop showmanship.The Secret AgentsTuesday, September 30, 2025The Secret Agents take you on a thrilling high-speed pursuit through ’60s Jazz, Cinema, Pop, Rock, and R&amp;B with a multi-talented vocalist and five-piece band out of Los Angeles.The Mexican BrassThursday, October 9, 2025The Mexican Brass, is a world-class ensemble seamlessly blending virtuosic musicianship, non-stop audience interaction, and showmanship mixing classical with opera, jazz and pop — a terrific blend for every audience.The Barricade BoysTuesday, November 18, 2025Direct from London’s West End (Broadway) comes the United Kingdom’s most exciting theatrical vocal group, The Barricade Boys. Each of the four singers has been in the musical, Les Misérables. They blend songs from musicals with the greatest pop and rock to make your heart sing.The She GeesFriday, March 27, 2026This electrifying female-led tribute to The Bee Gees will have you dancing and singing along to all of your favorite hits, from “Stayin’ Alive” to “Night Fever.”The SuitsFriday, April 17, 2026The Suits are comprised of four dynamic gentlemen performing four genres of hit music from the ‘50s through the ‘80s: Motown, Doo Wop, Pop and Rock.Live From Laurel CanyonThursday, April 23, 2026Enjoy an evening of live music and narrated stories of the most influential songwriters who lived in Laurel Canyon, Calif., in the mid ‘60s and ‘70s, including The Mamas &amp; The Papas; The Byrds; Buffalo Springfield; Crosby, Stills, Nash &amp; Young; James Taylor; Carole King; and many more.Anyone wanting to renew their membership or purchase a new membership in person may come to the GBCCA headquarters in the education wing at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2701 24th St., (using the south entrance) on April 24 from noon to 7 p.m. or April 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Memberships also can be purchased by mailing a check to GBCCA, P.O. Box 1795, Great Bend, KS 67530, or online by credit card at www.goldenbeltcca.org.The association needs to receive as many renewals as possible during the first two weeks. The third week of the campaign will be devoted to accepting new members, but renewals will still be accepted until the April 25 deadline. Membership cards will be mailed prior to the first concert.Joining by the April 25 deadline is important. After May 1 the membership fees will increase by $20 per adult.Membership fees from now through April 25: Adults, $50; Full-time students, $10; Family package (two adults and all dependent children living in same household), $110; and Grandparent package (two adults and four minor grandchildren), $110.Membership fees after May 1: Adults, $70; Full-time enrolled students, still $10; Family package, $150; and Grandparent package, $150. The association will accept memberships until sold out. Memberships will not be available to purchase at the concerts during the season.Concerts are for members only. No single concert tickets are available. The concerts are held in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone, beginning at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 6:15 p.m. Because the association encourages young people’s interest and education in music and the performing arts, full-time students will be admitted for a $5 donation. Questions? Call 620-793-2748.

Golden Belt Community Concert membership campaign underway

Four students from Great Bend High School put their skills to the test and brought home top honors during the annual Job Olympics, held March 26 in Hays, Kansas.

Representing GBHS at this daylong event were students MaKayla Cross, Jamie Patton, Payton Edwards, and Faith Mead. These outstanding students competed in a variety of hands-on events designed to build employability skills and boost confidence for future career success. Their hard work and preparation paid off with impressive results:

· 1st Place — Small Gas Engines, Rolling Silverware

· 2nd Place — Sorting Recyclables, Kids Meals Packaging

The Job Olympics provides students with opportunities to practice real-world job tasks, connect with employers, and engage in meaningful social experiences. The event aims to build motivation to learn job skills, improve social interactions, foster new friendships, and develop self-confidence. Participants also receive valuable feedback on their personal employability skills.

“The students not only gained practical skills that will serve them throughout their lives, but also built friendships with students from other schools and communities,” shared Trish Berger, Vocational Program Coordinator and Special Education Teacher at GBHS. “It’s inspiring to see their growth and enthusiasm during this event.”

Accompanied by three dedicated coaches, the GBHS team embraced every opportunity the Job Olympics had to offer, demonstrating perseverance and a positive attitude in each competition. Events like these reinforce the importance of community partnerships and showcase the talents and abilities of students with special needs.

For more information about the vocational programs at Great Bend High School, contact Trish Berger at 620-793-1521.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744057984361.jpeg" alt="Pictured: Brandi Suchy - interpreter/coach, Payton Edwards - 10th grade, Jamie Patton - 12th grade, MaKayla Cross - 11th grade, Faith Mead - 10th grade, Rhonda Glenn - special education teacher/coach, Trish Berger - special education teacher/work study coordinator." />
 <figcaption>Pictured: Brandi Suchy - interpreter/coach, Payton Edwards - 10th grade, Jamie Patton - 12th grade, MaKayla Cross - 11th grade, Faith Mead - 10th grade, Rhonda Glenn - special education teacher/coach, Trish Berger - special education teacher/work study coordinator.</figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...Four students from Great Bend High School put their skills to the test and brought home top honors during the annual Job Olympics, held March 26 in Hays, Kansas.Representing GBHS at this daylong event were students MaKayla Cross, Jamie Patton, Payton Edwards, and Faith Mead. These outstanding students competed in a variety of hands-on events designed to build employability skills and boost confidence for future career success. Their hard work and preparation paid off with impressive results:· 1st Place — Small Gas Engines, Rolling Silverware· 2nd Place — Sorting Recyclables, Kids Meals PackagingThe Job Olympics provides students with opportunities to practice real-world job tasks, connect with employers, and engage in meaningful social experiences. The event aims to build motivation to learn job skills, improve social interactions, foster new friendships, and develop self-confidence. Participants also receive valuable feedback on their personal employability skills.“The students not only gained practical skills that will serve them throughout their lives, but also built friendships with students from other schools and communities,” shared Trish Berger, Vocational Program Coordinator and Special Education Teacher at GBHS. “It’s inspiring to see their growth and enthusiasm during this event.”Accompanied by three dedicated coaches, the GBHS team embraced every opportunity the Job Olympics had to offer, demonstrating perseverance and a positive attitude in each competition. Events like these reinforce the importance of community partnerships and showcase the talents and abilities of students with special needs.For more information about the vocational programs at Great Bend High School, contact Trish Berger at 620-793-1521.

GBHS students compete at Job Olympics, bring home top honors

News from the Oil Patch, Apr. 7 John P. Tretbar

Between tariff uncertainty and a big Saudi price cut, the crude oil market takes a beating.&nbsp; NYMEX futures prices shed five dollars a barrel on Friday to settle a penny below $62. Prices were down another three percent Monday morning. WTI was fetching a few cents over $60 a barrel after dipping below $59 earlier in the session.&nbsp; Kansas Crude prices dropped five dollars Friday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at 52.25 per barrel.

Saudi Arabia slashed its prices by more than two dollars a barrel, dropping prices for Asia customers to a four-year low.&nbsp; Reuters reports the second monthly price cut in a row marks the biggest decline in two years.

Eight key OPEC+ producers last week agreed to raise combined crude oil output by 411,000 barrels per day, what the cartel calls the equivalent of three monthly increments.

Kansas crude production has dropped from the worst ever to the new worst ever, again. The data crunchers at the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) have been busy with what a spokesman called "significant changes in their server architecture." This week they released the delayed and much-anticipated December and year-end crude oil production totals. The new report shows annual statewide production of 26.8 million barrels, the worst annual total in KGS records, for an average of 73,306 barrels per day. That's down from just under 76-thousand barrels a day the year before and 77-thousand-plus the year before that.

KGS reports Ellis County is still the top producing county in 2024, with 5,668 barrels per day. That's down 213 daily barrels from the year before. Finney County production jumps to the second spot with 4,405 barrels per day, up 605 daily barrels. After Haskell County at third comes Barton County at 3,847 barrels per day, down 233 barrels a day from the year before. At fifth, Russell County output dropped 87 daily barrels year-over-year, at 3,507. Stafford County drops 62 daily barrels to eighth place with 2,391 barrels per day.

Kansas regulators report 83 new intent-to-drill notices in March, or 202 so far this year. A search of the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site shows Barton County with two new intents, and four so far this year. Ellis County has a new one. That's makes two for the first three months of the year. Russell County notches its first of the year, and Stafford County adds one, for a year-to-date tally of seven. Haskell County reports five new intents or seven through the first quarter. Finney County has 17 so far this year, with five new ones in March.

The Kansas Corporation Commission okayed 26 new drilling sites, with 12 in Western Kansas including one in Stafford County. That's 199 new drilling permits this year, compared to 232 through the first quarter last year.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 47 new well completions in eastern Kansas last week. There were just six west of Wichita, including three in Haskell County and one in Stafford County. Completions for the first quarter total 347, compared to 301 last year at this time.US crude production boasts its third-best weekly average, it's second-best four-week average, and all-time best cumulative average. US crude production through March 28th averaged 13.58 million barrels a day, up six thousand barrels from the week before and nearly half a million higher than the same tally a year ago.

The Energy Information Administration reports crude inventories rose 6.2 million barrels from last week to 439.8 million barrels. Stockpiles are down nearly three percent from a year ago, and are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.

The Energy Department took delivery on another 300-thousand barrels of crude last week for the Strategic Petroleum Reserves. That's 32.8 million since full-scale refill operations began last April. SPR barrels were sold in 2022 for more than $95 a barrel. The average price we're paying remains below the ceiling established by the government. Paper savings now total over $490 million.

Crude imports from Canada rose for the second week in a row, but the tally for the month of March is the lowest since October. US refiners imported 4.4 million barrels of Canadian crude per day last week.

Total US imports averaged 6.5 million barrels per day, rising 271-thousand barrels from the previous week. EIA says crude exports averaged 3.8 million barrels a day, making the US is a net crude importer by two-and-a-half million barrels a day.

The Kansas Rig Count totals were unchanged from a week ago, with eight active rigs east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports drilling underway or about to resume barring weather delays on a lease in Barton County, two in Finney County, one in Russell County and one in Stafford County.

Baker Hughes reports 590 active drilling rigs across the U.S. The number of oil rigs is up five. The tally of those seeking natural gas is down seven rigs. Texas is down three rigs for the week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Apr. 7 John P. TretbarBetween tariff uncertainty and a big Saudi price cut, the crude oil market takes a beating.&nbsp; NYMEX futures prices shed five dollars a barrel on Friday to settle a penny below $62. Prices were down another three percent Monday morning. WTI was fetching a few cents over $60 a barrel after dipping below $59 earlier in the session.&nbsp; Kansas Crude prices dropped five dollars Friday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at 52.25 per barrel.Saudi Arabia slashed its prices by more than two dollars a barrel, dropping prices for Asia customers to a four-year low.&nbsp; Reuters reports the second monthly price cut in a row marks the biggest decline in two years.Eight key OPEC+ producers last week agreed to raise combined crude oil output by 411,000 barrels per day, what the cartel calls the equivalent of three monthly increments.Kansas crude production has dropped from the worst ever to the new worst ever, again. The data crunchers at the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) have been busy with what a spokesman called "significant changes in their server architecture." This week they released the delayed and much-anticipated December and year-end crude oil production totals. The new report shows annual statewide production of 26.8 million barrels, the worst annual total in KGS records, for an average of 73,306 barrels per day. That's down from just under 76-thousand barrels a day the year before and 77-thousand-plus the year before that.KGS reports Ellis County is still the top producing county in 2024, with 5,668 barrels per day. That's down 213 daily barrels from the year before. Finney County production jumps to the second spot with 4,405 barrels per day, up 605 daily barrels. After Haskell County at third comes Barton County at 3,847 barrels per day, down 233 barrels a day from the year before. At fifth, Russell County output dropped 87 daily barrels year-over-year, at 3,507. Stafford County drops 62 daily barrels to eighth place with 2,391 barrels per day.Kansas regulators report 83 new intent-to-drill notices in March, or 202 so far this year. A search of the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site shows Barton County with two new intents, and four so far this year. Ellis County has a new one. That's makes two for the first three months of the year. Russell County notches its first of the year, and Stafford County adds one, for a year-to-date tally of seven. Haskell County reports five new intents or seven through the first quarter. Finney County has 17 so far this year, with five new ones in March.The Kansas Corporation Commission okayed 26 new drilling sites, with 12 in Western Kansas including one in Stafford County. That's 199 new drilling permits this year, compared to 232 through the first quarter last year.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 47 new well completions in eastern Kansas last week. There were just six west of Wichita, including three in Haskell County and one in Stafford County. Completions for the first quarter total 347, compared to 301 last year at this time.US crude production boasts its third-best weekly average, it's second-best four-week average, and all-time best cumulative average. US crude production through March 28th averaged 13.58 million barrels a day, up six thousand barrels from the week before and nearly half a million higher than the same tally a year ago.The Energy Information Administration reports crude inventories rose 6.2 million barrels from last week to 439.8 million barrels. Stockpiles are down nearly three percent from a year ago, and are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.The Energy Department took delivery on another 300-thousand barrels of crude last week for the Strategic Petroleum Reserves. That's 32.8 million since full-scale refill operations began last April. SPR barrels were sold in 2022 for more than $95 a barrel. The average price we're paying remains below the ceiling established by the government. Paper savings now total over $490 million.Crude imports from Canada rose for the second week in a row, but the tally for the month of March is the lowest since October. US refiners imported 4.4 million barrels of Canadian crude per day last week.Total US imports averaged 6.5 million barrels per day, rising 271-thousand barrels from the previous week. EIA says crude exports averaged 3.8 million barrels a day, making the US is a net crude importer by two-and-a-half million barrels a day.The Kansas Rig Count totals were unchanged from a week ago, with eight active rigs east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports drilling underway or about to resume barring weather delays on a lease in Barton County, two in Finney County, one in Russell County and one in Stafford County.Baker Hughes reports 590 active drilling rigs across the U.S. The number of oil rigs is up five. The tally of those seeking natural gas is down seven rigs. Texas is down three rigs for the week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: KS crude production lowest ever

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 76. West wind 7 to 16 mph becoming north northwest in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 38.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 76. West wind 7 to 16 mph becoming north northwest in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 38.Friday Sunny, with a high near 73.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

This year will mark the third straight year without any races at the
SRCA Dragstrip in Great Bend, but Great Bend City Administrator Logan Burns
told the Great Bend City Council Monday that hopefully crews will be paving the
track in August and be finished with the project next February. 


This past January, the council approved a contract with Bartlett &amp; West for
the rebuild design of the track for $55,000.


"We're meeting biweekly right now," said Burns. "The site survey is complete. We're looking forward to bringing the next step in the design process back to the council in the next meeting. Our next step will be getting the 60-percent drawings completed and then start the demolition."

The dragstrip was reconstructed in 2021 by Suchy Construction but several
issues followed the completion of the project making the surface unsafe. Tied
up in a lawsuit to determine who was responsible for the mistakes, the city reached
settlements with multiple parties to move forward.


The plan is to still have racing return to the track in 2026.


"We have commitments from the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) to bring some good races to town. I'm excited to get that project going."

The first race was held at the Great Bend track in 1953, and the SRCA joined
the NHRA in 1955.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676068951874.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThis year will mark the third straight year without any races at the
SRCA Dragstrip in Great Bend, but Great Bend City Administrator Logan Burns
told the Great Bend City Council Monday that hopefully crews will be paving the
track in August and be finished with the project next February. 
This past January, the council approved a contract with Bartlett &amp; West for
the rebuild design of the track for $55,000.
"We're meeting biweekly right now," said Burns. "The site survey is complete. We're looking forward to bringing the next step in the design process back to the council in the next meeting. Our next step will be getting the 60-percent drawings completed and then start the demolition."The dragstrip was reconstructed in 2021 by Suchy Construction but several
issues followed the completion of the project making the surface unsafe. Tied
up in a lawsuit to determine who was responsible for the mistakes, the city reached
settlements with multiple parties to move forward.
The plan is to still have racing return to the track in 2026.
"We have commitments from the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) to bring some good races to town. I'm excited to get that project going."The first race was held at the Great Bend track in 1953, and the SRCA joined
the NHRA in 1955.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Demolition of SRCA Dragstrip to start soon, part of rebuild

BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, April 8 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/Zoom

1. March Financial Statement – Mark Dean

2. Website ADA Compliance Update – Samantha Stueder/Maggie Harris

3. Faculty Contract Renewals – Elaine Simmons

4. Strategic Planning – Dr. Garstecki

5. Student Graduation Review – Angie Maddy

6. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Early College opportunities &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Elkhart USD 218, Kansas Connections Academy &nbsp; &nbsp; MOU &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Barton OSHA Training Institute Education Center MOU with Great Plains OSHA Education Consortium partners (Metropolitan Community College and St. Louis University Re: Hosting Spring 2025 OSHA Training Institute Education Center Directors Meeting in St. Louis &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Leavenworth, KS Re: Amended Fort Leavenworth MOU &nbsp; &nbsp; Military On-Stie Training (MOST) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Agreement for Unit Armorer training, 916th Support Brigade, Fort Irwin, CA &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT and Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Princetown Community Hospital Association, Princetown, WV &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Cape Fear Valley Health System, Fayetteville, NC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • MedStar Health Inc., Columbia, MD and Washington, DC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hays Medical Center, INC., Hays, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fredonia Regional Hospital, Fredonia, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • St. Luke’s Health System, Kansas City, MO &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hospital District No. 6 of Harper County, KS aka Patterson Health Center, Anthony, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • TriStar Health System, Inc., Antioch, TN &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Mowrey Clinic, LLC, Salina, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Stormont Vail Healthcare, Inc., Topeka, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, April 8 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZoomDiscussion Topics1. March Financial Statement – Mark Dean2. Website ADA Compliance Update – Samantha Stueder/Maggie Harris3. Faculty Contract Renewals – Elaine Simmons4. Strategic Planning – Dr. Garstecki5. Student Graduation Review – Angie Maddy6. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Early College opportunities &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Elkhart USD 218, Kansas Connections Academy &nbsp; &nbsp; MOU &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Barton OSHA Training Institute Education Center MOU with Great Plains OSHA Education Consortium partners (Metropolitan Community College and St. Louis University Re: Hosting Spring 2025 OSHA Training Institute Education Center Directors Meeting in St. Louis &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Leavenworth, KS Re: Amended Fort Leavenworth MOU &nbsp; &nbsp; Military On-Stie Training (MOST) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Agreement for Unit Armorer training, 916th Support Brigade, Fort Irwin, CA &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT and Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Princetown Community Hospital Association, Princetown, WV &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Cape Fear Valley Health System, Fayetteville, NC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • MedStar Health Inc., Columbia, MD and Washington, DC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hays Medical Center, INC., Hays, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fredonia Regional Hospital, Fredonia, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • St. Luke’s Health System, Kansas City, MO &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hospital District No. 6 of Harper County, KS aka Patterson Health Center, Anthony, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • TriStar Health System, Inc., Antioch, TN &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Mowrey Clinic, LLC, Salina, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Stormont Vail Healthcare, Inc., Topeka, KS

Barton CC Trustees study session agenda (4/8)

Barton Community College will partner with the Kansas Army National Guard on April 8&nbsp;to provide healthcare students with an exciting experience, which will showcase a military Blackhawk helicopter as well as demonstrations from the pilots and crew highlighting air medical operations and emergency response procedures.

The Blackhawk is scheduled to land at 10 a.m. on the south side of the Kirkman parking lot on the Barton County campus. To kick off the event, members of the Kansas Army National Guard will hold a briefing for Barton’s Nursing and Paramedic students, highlighting career pathways in the Guard and the role of aviation in emergency medical services.

At 11 a.m., the helicopter will be available for viewing by the public, including Barton students, faculty, and staff. During this time, the crew may conduct simulated patient loading demonstrations, offering attendees a close-up look at emergency transport procedures used in the field.

The helicopter will depart at 1 p.m., concluding the event.

For more information, contact the Barton Communications Office at (620) 792-9307.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744041871064.jpeg" alt="The Kansas Army National Guard lands a Blackhawk helicopter on the Barton County campus at Barton Community College during a visit in 2017 to speak with students about the benefits of career opportunities with the Guard." />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Army National Guard lands a Blackhawk helicopter on the Barton County campus at Barton Community College during a visit in 2017 to speak with students about the benefits of career opportunities with the Guard.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie HarrisBarton Community College will partner with the Kansas Army National Guard on April 8&nbsp;to provide healthcare students with an exciting experience, which will showcase a military Blackhawk helicopter as well as demonstrations from the pilots and crew highlighting air medical operations and emergency response procedures.The Blackhawk is scheduled to land at 10 a.m. on the south side of the Kirkman parking lot on the Barton County campus. To kick off the event, members of the Kansas Army National Guard will hold a briefing for Barton’s Nursing and Paramedic students, highlighting career pathways in the Guard and the role of aviation in emergency medical services.At 11 a.m., the helicopter will be available for viewing by the public, including Barton students, faculty, and staff. During this time, the crew may conduct simulated patient loading demonstrations, offering attendees a close-up look at emergency transport procedures used in the field.The helicopter will depart at 1 p.m., concluding the event.For more information, contact the Barton Communications Office at (620) 792-9307.

National Guard to land Blackhawk helicopter at Barton CC

If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.

Select the right tree for the site.

To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.

Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.

When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.Select the right tree for the site.To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.Dig a proper hole.Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.Remove all containers from the root ball.Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.Minimize pruning after planting.Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.Water the tree thoroughly.Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.Mulch around the tree.Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.Stake only when necessary.Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

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