Baseball -Game 1- Manhattan 5 Great Bend 3 -Game 2- Manhattan 15 Great Bend 5

1. Great Bend Sports on 104 3 the Point sponsored by Venture Corporation, Advanced Truck &amp; Diesel, Mpire Reality, Nex-Tech, The 10th Street Eye Care Center, Damm Pipe Testing, Delgado's Mexican Restaurant, Comfort Pro, Haz Mat Response, American Plains Co-op, Marmie Auto Group, Sutherlands, Stone Sand Company &amp; Stone Waste Management, S&amp;J Trucking, Schroeder Homes &amp; Remodeling, Unruh Brothers Trash Service, Great Bend Pizza Hut, Advanced Therapy &amp; Sports Medicine, Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, Innovative Livestock Services, Beugelsdijk Chiropractic, Magna Dry Cleaning Services, People's Bank &amp; Trust, The Fieldhouse, Great Bend Rec, Insurance Planning, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, USD 428, Scott's Welding, University of Kansas Health Systems, Edward Jones Financial Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673886602159.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Baseball -Game 1- Manhattan 5 Great Bend 3 -Game 2- Manhattan 15 Great Bend 5<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/bserh5bi/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>1. Great Bend Sports on 104 3 the Point sponsored by Venture Corporation, Advanced Truck &amp; Diesel, Mpire Reality, Nex-Tech, The 10th Street Eye Care Center, Damm Pipe Testing, Delgado's Mexican Restaurant, Comfort Pro, Haz Mat Response, American Plains Co-op, Marmie Auto Group, Sutherlands, Stone Sand Company &amp; Stone Waste Management, S&amp;J Trucking, Schroeder Homes &amp; Remodeling, Unruh Brothers Trash Service, Great Bend Pizza Hut, Advanced Therapy &amp; Sports Medicine, Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, Innovative Livestock Services, Beugelsdijk Chiropractic, Magna Dry Cleaning Services, People's Bank &amp; Trust, The Fieldhouse, Great Bend Rec, Insurance Planning, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, USD 428, Scott's Welding, University of Kansas Health Systems, Edward Jones Financial Services.

April showers bring May flowers, but an April without showers brings disappointment to a wheat crop that had a lot of promise coming out of the winter.

According to Ross Janssen, Chief Meteorologist for Storm Team 12 in Wichita, the precipitation in Dodge City last month was 0.02 inches, tying the 1909 record for the driest April on record.

What’s even worse than a continuing multiyear drought is the loss of hope being felt throughout central and southern Kansas for a crop that, in January and February, was one of the better-looking wheat crops they’d seen in the past ten years.

The condition of the crop has been deteriorating rapidly, especially over the past few weeks, going from 57 percent good to excellent on February 25 to only 31 percent good to excellent by April 28, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

It has suffered from lack of moisture for much of the growing season, especially during the spring green-up. The Kansas wheat crop is also ahead of schedule, with one-third already headed, well ahead of 9 percent last year and 6 percent average. A March 26-27 freeze event took a toll on it, as there was not enough snow cover, and the plants were more advanced than they typically are at the end of March.

Mike Hubbell, a farmer from the Spearville area in Ford County, said his wheat came up good last fall, received a decent snow in February, was pretty wet in late January and February, and was looking pretty good. However, the last decent moisture it received was on February 5. Since then drought has killed off some tillers and it’s going downhill pretty rapidly.

A field of T158, planted on September 28, 2023, showed drought stress and freeze damage. Hubbell said most of the fields in the area were the same, with brown parts across the fields, mostly due to the drought. He reports that wheat in the area still has some potential — if the weather starts to cooperate from here on out and provides decent grain fill conditions.

In Rice County, Brian Sieker, who farms near Chase, said, “Wheat is just such a good thing in our rotation.” His early planted fields suffered the most from the freeze but are still his best fields despite that fact. Some of the late planted wheat didn’t come up until January. His best-looking field was planted to KS Providence on September 18, 2023, but even it was only knee-high because of the drought. Sieker credited improved genetics for giving it the ability to weather the drought as well as it has.

“In February, we had some of the best wheat we’d seen in years,” Sieker said. "Hope’s not a good thing.” This year will be his third year in a row with an insurance claim on wheat, making him seriously question whether he can justify the cost of applying a fungicide.

In McPherson County, Derek Sawyer says his wheat had a lot more hope in February than it does now.

“It needs a rain,” he said. His area received 0.5 inch of moisture in April, but that’s 2.5 inches less than normal.

He said he wasn’t overly excited about planting last fall, but with fall rains in October and some moisture through the winter, it looked like his wheat showed promise. After freeze damage and drought, that promise is withering away, much like his wheat.

“There was not enough snow when the cold snap hit,” said Sawyer. “There’s always a storm that wipes out our hopes. It’s all too common lately.”

He reports that his wheat is going downhill very rapidly, and some is even having trouble shooting a head.

The loss of potential for the 2024 Kansas wheat crop has been a disappointment to all who saw promise this winter. There’s still time for Mother Nature to salvage what’s left with some optimal grain fill conditions. Participants in the Wheat Quality Council’s annual hard winter wheat tour will have a chance to take a closer look at this year’s crop during the week of May 13.

Written by Marsha Boswell for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714747755949.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>April showers bring May flowers, but an April without showers brings disappointment to a wheat crop that had a lot of promise coming out of the winter.According to Ross Janssen, Chief Meteorologist for Storm Team 12 in Wichita, the precipitation in Dodge City last month was 0.02 inches, tying the 1909 record for the driest April on record.What’s even worse than a continuing multiyear drought is the loss of hope being felt throughout central and southern Kansas for a crop that, in January and February, was one of the better-looking wheat crops they’d seen in the past ten years.The condition of the crop has been deteriorating rapidly, especially over the past few weeks, going from 57 percent good to excellent on February 25 to only 31 percent good to excellent by April 28, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.It has suffered from lack of moisture for much of the growing season, especially during the spring green-up. The Kansas wheat crop is also ahead of schedule, with one-third already headed, well ahead of 9 percent last year and 6 percent average. A March 26-27 freeze event took a toll on it, as there was not enough snow cover, and the plants were more advanced than they typically are at the end of March.Mike Hubbell, a farmer from the Spearville area in Ford County, said his wheat came up good last fall, received a decent snow in February, was pretty wet in late January and February, and was looking pretty good. However, the last decent moisture it received was on February 5. Since then drought has killed off some tillers and it’s going downhill pretty rapidly.A field of T158, planted on September 28, 2023, showed drought stress and freeze damage. Hubbell said most of the fields in the area were the same, with brown parts across the fields, mostly due to the drought. He reports that wheat in the area still has some potential — if the weather starts to cooperate from here on out and provides decent grain fill conditions.In Rice County, Brian Sieker, who farms near Chase, said, “Wheat is just such a good thing in our rotation.” His early planted fields suffered the most from the freeze but are still his best fields despite that fact. Some of the late planted wheat didn’t come up until January. His best-looking field was planted to KS Providence on September 18, 2023, but even it was only knee-high because of the drought. Sieker credited improved genetics for giving it the ability to weather the drought as well as it has.“In February, we had some of the best wheat we’d seen in years,” Sieker said. "Hope’s not a good thing.” This year will be his third year in a row with an insurance claim on wheat, making him seriously question whether he can justify the cost of applying a fungicide.In McPherson County, Derek Sawyer says his wheat had a lot more hope in February than it does now.“It needs a rain,” he said. His area received 0.5 inch of moisture in April, but that’s 2.5 inches less than normal.He said he wasn’t overly excited about planting last fall, but with fall rains in October and some moisture through the winter, it looked like his wheat showed promise. After freeze damage and drought, that promise is withering away, much like his wheat.“There was not enough snow when the cold snap hit,” said Sawyer. “There’s always a storm that wipes out our hopes. It’s all too common lately.”He reports that his wheat is going downhill very rapidly, and some is even having trouble shooting a head.The loss of potential for the 2024 Kansas wheat crop has been a disappointment to all who saw promise this winter. There’s still time for Mother Nature to salvage what’s left with some optimal grain fill conditions. Participants in the Wheat Quality Council’s annual hard winter wheat tour will have a chance to take a closer look at this year’s crop during the week of May 13.Written by Marsha Boswell for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Wheat crop deteriorates due to lack of moisture

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The owners of a property on 12th Street in Great Bend were
given 30 days to repair dangerous buildings or the city will demolish the
house. The Great Bend City Council held a public hearing on Monday for the
unsafe building at 2421 12th Street. 

Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said an inspection was conducted on the house as part of a search warrant by
the Barton County Sheriff’s Office. The exterior shows missing shingles and
windows boarded up and the front porch has deteriorated.


"There are no utilities to the house currently," said Burns. "I have noticed the door is opening in so I think we're having people going through it again. You'll see the sheetrock that is coming off and that is due to roof leaks. You also have open electrical pieces."

With no utilities to the structure, there are multiple makeshift wood-burning
stoves inside the house. During the search warrant, somebody was arrested for
living inside one of the rooms.


The City of Great Bend has not received any contact from the owners. If no
repairs are made to the property by June 8, the city will contract
out the demolition of the buildings.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867324106.jpeg" alt="The property at 2421 12th Street in Great Bend will be demolished if no repairs are made within the next 30 days." />
 <figcaption>The property at 2421 12th Street in Great Bend will be demolished if no repairs are made within the next 30 days.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe owners of a property on 12th Street in Great Bend were
given 30 days to repair dangerous buildings or the city will demolish the
house. The Great Bend City Council held a public hearing on Monday for the
unsafe building at 2421 12th Street. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said an inspection was conducted on the house as part of a search warrant by
the Barton County Sheriff’s Office. The exterior shows missing shingles and
windows boarded up and the front porch has deteriorated.
"There are no utilities to the house currently," said Burns. "I have noticed the door is opening in so I think we're having people going through it again. You'll see the sheetrock that is coming off and that is due to roof leaks. You also have open electrical pieces."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867295547.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With no utilities to the structure, there are multiple makeshift wood-burning
stoves inside the house. During the search warrant, somebody was arrested for
living inside one of the rooms.
The City of Great Bend has not received any contact from the owners. If no
repairs are made to the property by June 8, the city will contract
out the demolition of the buildings.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend moves forward with demolishing unsafe 12th Street house

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Few details have emerged about a missing woman and her infant son following the Great Bend Police Department's attempt to locate 32-year-old Crystal DeMoss Monday. The post on Facebook has elicited more than 1,700 shares. A friend of DeMoss, who wishes to remain anonymous, said it's not unlikely for DeMoss to take a break from social media.

"It's normal for her to get off social media for a couple weeks but she will always contact somebody," the friend said. "It was a shock when we saw the poster of her missing. We're looking at like, you reported her missing in May, but she's actually been missing since January, but no one understood she's the type of person that will step away from media for a while."

The post from the GBPD states DeMoss' vehicle was located at the residence of 25-year-old Tyler Epp in Great Bend. DeMoss and Epp share the missing infant son, and DeMoss had been residing at his residence. GBPD officers served two search warrants in Great Bend on Sunday in relation to DeMoss. Epp was booked into the Barton County Jail on May 6 on charges of criminal use of a firearm and possession of marijuana. He posted a $10,000 surety bond the same day.

Last September, Epp was charged in Russell County District Court for allegedly choking DeMoss in a Sept. 24, 2023 incident. The Russell County Sheriff's Office attempted to serve DeMoss a subpoena for a Jan. 22, 2024 court hearing but was unable to locate her at her Russell address. The case was dismissed on March 12, 2024, after DeMoss failed to make an appearance. 

Some friends of DeMoss say she was once active of social media but has not made any posts since January. The anonymous friend has not had contact with DeMoss since the summer of 2022, but remembers a fun-loving mother of three at the time.

"There's a bar in Russell that would have karaoke and we'd go," said the friend. "We would also hang out, just shopping and doing girls' stuff and having fun. We talked about going to the pool when it opened."

The friend also said a source she believes to be credible claims to have spoken with DeMoss on the phone as late as April 29.&nbsp;

Anyone with information about DeMoss or her son can contact the Police Department via 911, or you can do so anonymously through the TIPS Hotline (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715190495177.jpeg" alt="32-year-old Crystal DeMoss and her infant son were reported missing in Great Bend&nbsp; on Sunday." />
 <figcaption>32-year-old Crystal DeMoss and her infant son were reported missing in Great Bend&nbsp; on Sunday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFew details have emerged about a missing woman and her infant son following the Great Bend Police Department's attempt to locate 32-year-old Crystal DeMoss Monday. The post on Facebook has elicited more than 1,700 shares. A friend of DeMoss, who wishes to remain anonymous, said it's not unlikely for DeMoss to take a break from social media."It's normal for her to get off social media for a couple weeks but she will always contact somebody," the friend said. "It was a shock when we saw the poster of her missing. We're looking at like, you reported her missing in May, but she's actually been missing since January, but no one understood she's the type of person that will step away from media for a while."The post from the GBPD states DeMoss' vehicle was located at the residence of 25-year-old Tyler Epp in Great Bend. DeMoss and Epp share the missing infant son, and DeMoss had been residing at his residence. GBPD officers served two search warrants in Great Bend on Sunday in relation to DeMoss. Epp was booked into the Barton County Jail on May 6 on charges of criminal use of a firearm and possession of marijuana. He posted a $10,000 surety bond the same day.Last September, Epp was charged in Russell County District Court for allegedly choking DeMoss in a Sept. 24, 2023 incident. The Russell County Sheriff's Office attempted to serve DeMoss a subpoena for a Jan. 22, 2024 court hearing but was unable to locate her at her Russell address. The case was dismissed on March 12, 2024, after DeMoss failed to make an appearance. Some friends of DeMoss say she was once active of social media but has not made any posts since January. The anonymous friend has not had contact with DeMoss since the summer of 2022, but remembers a fun-loving mother of three at the time."There's a bar in Russell that would have karaoke and we'd go," said the friend. "We would also hang out, just shopping and doing girls' stuff and having fun. We talked about going to the pool when it opened."The friend also said a source she believes to be credible claims to have spoken with DeMoss on the phone as late as April 29.&nbsp;Anyone with information about DeMoss or her son can contact the Police Department via 911, or you can do so anonymously through the TIPS Hotline (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Details remain murky about missing Great Bend woman, infant son

Six students from Barton Community College in the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society were recognized as members of the PTK All-State Academic team during an award luncheon on April 12 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Junction City.&nbsp;

Barton’s PTK honorees were Ce’Ara Evans of Kansas City and Sarah Showers of Lansing, from the Fort Leavenworth campus, Breyanna Baize of Fort Riley from the Fort Riley campus, Rachel Sims of Salina from the Barton County campus, and Brooke McReynolds and Heather Ramirez, both of Great Bend, who represented the Barton County campus and Barton Online respectively.

PTK is the international honor society for two-year colleges and symbolizes excellence in higher education.&nbsp; Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher are invited to join PTK. The PTK group at Barton spends significant time sponsoring local events and volunteering to support others’ events.

Students must go through a selection process to join PTK, and their applications are reviewed by an anonymous panel on their respective campuses. All six students will have a chance to be named to PTK’s All-USA Academic Team, which will be announced in the coming weeks.

Evans was named a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar and was chosen to address the audience during the celebration. She credits PTK for helping her push herself to accomplish more during her time at Barton.

“PTK recognized my academic endeavors, brilliance, and persistence to achieve and excel in the world of academics and helped me branch out to bigger and greater things,” she said. “Joining PTK gave me the fellowship, community, and support to encourage me on my journey of learning.”

As part of her recognition as a Coca-Cola scholar, she will receive a $1,000 scholarship for her future academic journey toward becoming a librarian at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze Scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion. Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715174971369.jpeg" alt="Attendees of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-State Academic Team awards were (front row, from left) Erika Jenkins-Moss, Breyanna Baize, Ce’Ara Evans, Sarah Showers, Brooke McReynolds, Rachel Sims, Angie Maddy, (back row, from left) Kathy Kottas, Elaine Simmons, Janet Belk, Carley Page, Kurtis Teal, and Kurt Konda" />
 <figcaption>Attendees of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-State Academic Team awards were (front row, from left) Erika Jenkins-Moss, Breyanna Baize, Ce’Ara Evans, Sarah Showers, Brooke McReynolds, Rachel Sims, Angie Maddy, (back row, from left) Kathy Kottas, Elaine Simmons, Janet Belk, Carley Page, Kurtis Teal, and Kurt Konda</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photos by Maggie HarrisSix students from Barton Community College in the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society were recognized as members of the PTK All-State Academic team during an award luncheon on April 12 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Junction City.&nbsp;Barton’s PTK honorees were Ce’Ara Evans of Kansas City and Sarah Showers of Lansing, from the Fort Leavenworth campus, Breyanna Baize of Fort Riley from the Fort Riley campus, Rachel Sims of Salina from the Barton County campus, and Brooke McReynolds and Heather Ramirez, both of Great Bend, who represented the Barton County campus and Barton Online respectively.PTK is the international honor society for two-year colleges and symbolizes excellence in higher education.&nbsp; Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher are invited to join PTK. The PTK group at Barton spends significant time sponsoring local events and volunteering to support others’ events.Students must go through a selection process to join PTK, and their applications are reviewed by an anonymous panel on their respective campuses. All six students will have a chance to be named to PTK’s All-USA Academic Team, which will be announced in the coming weeks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715175049848.jpeg" alt="Barton Fort Leavenworth student Ce’Ara Evans was named to the 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team as a bronze scholar." />
 <figcaption>Barton Fort Leavenworth student Ce’Ara Evans was named to the 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team as a bronze scholar.</figcaption>
 </figure>Evans was named a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar and was chosen to address the audience during the celebration. She credits PTK for helping her push herself to accomplish more during her time at Barton.“PTK recognized my academic endeavors, brilliance, and persistence to achieve and excel in the world of academics and helped me branch out to bigger and greater things,” she said. “Joining PTK gave me the fellowship, community, and support to encourage me on my journey of learning.”As part of her recognition as a Coca-Cola scholar, she will receive a $1,000 scholarship for her future academic journey toward becoming a librarian at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa.The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze Scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion. Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.

Barton CC students honored for academic achievements

The 50th Biking Across Kansas (BAK) event does not begin until June but May is National Bike Month. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved a proclamation to recognize the month locally. Dale Hogg, who is gearing up for his sixth BAK next month, said National Bike Month is a useful tool to bring awareness to the benefits and dangers of cycling.

"Citizens are urged to be mindful of bicyclists in an effort to reduce collisions, injuries, and fatalities and improve the health and safety of everyone on the roads," Hogg said. "And further, citizens are reminded that biking is a low-impact form of exercise and can help protect citizens from serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, some cancers, depression, diabetes, obesity, and arthritis."

BAK begins on Friday, June 7 with a short 16-mile ride from the Colorado border to Tribune. Hoisington is scheduled for an overnight stop on Monday, June 10.

"If you want to come over and see what it looks like for a storm of locusts to hit a town and eat every piece of pie and drink every ounce of beer, that's the time to go see it," Hogg said. "It's unbelievable what 700 riders will do to a community."

BAK wraps up in Atchison on June 15, 505 miles from the original starting point. The event is typically capped at approximately 700 riders, but with support personnel, the caravan can easily grow to more than 1,000 people moving through Kansas communities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627500843308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe 50th Biking Across Kansas (BAK) event does not begin until June but May is National Bike Month. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved a proclamation to recognize the month locally. Dale Hogg, who is gearing up for his sixth BAK next month, said National Bike Month is a useful tool to bring awareness to the benefits and dangers of cycling."Citizens are urged to be mindful of bicyclists in an effort to reduce collisions, injuries, and fatalities and improve the health and safety of everyone on the roads," Hogg said. "And further, citizens are reminded that biking is a low-impact form of exercise and can help protect citizens from serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, some cancers, depression, diabetes, obesity, and arthritis."BAK begins on Friday, June 7 with a short 16-mile ride from the Colorado border to Tribune. Hoisington is scheduled for an overnight stop on Monday, June 10."If you want to come over and see what it looks like for a storm of locusts to hit a town and eat every piece of pie and drink every ounce of beer, that's the time to go see it," Hogg said. "It's unbelievable what 700 riders will do to a community."BAK wraps up in Atchison on June 15, 505 miles from the original starting point. The event is typically capped at approximately 700 riders, but with support personnel, the caravan can easily grow to more than 1,000 people moving through Kansas communities.

May proclaimed as National Bike Month in Barton County

Russell City Manager Jon Quinday was presented with the 2024 Edgar P. Schowalter Award by Kansas Municipal Utilities, the statewide association of community-owned and operated electric, gas, water and wastewater utilities in Kansas.

The award, the highest honor presented by KMU, is given to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the municipal utility industry. Quinday was presented the award at the KMU 2024 Conference in Wichita on April 25 by KMU Executive Director Brad Mears.

"Jon Quinday has been a strong voice for the municipal utility business model to provide essential utility services to the community they serve, and he has represented the municipal utility interests of his community to members of Congress and the Kansas Legislature," said Mears. "Jon also has provided thoughtful guidance on utility-related issues as well as valued input on the operation and planning for Kansas Municipal Utilities."

With a background as a combat veteran in the US Army and former Russell Police Chief, he was named City Manager of Russell in 2012. Russell is a full-service municipality with over 90 employees and an annual budget exceeding $30 million, with electric, water, wastewater, sewer and sanitation utilities, along with countywide 911 communications.

Throughout his career, he has firsthand insight into the complexities of municipal governance and municipal utility management. In addition, his public service extends beyond local government. Quinday has also served as school board president, president of the Kansas Municipal Energy Agency and a board member for Kansas Municipal Utilities and the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police. He has always been a strong advocate of the importance of public service.

The Schowalter Award is named after the late Ed Schowalter, who was an outstanding leader in the municipal utility industry, both in Kansas and across the United States. Schowalter served the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities for 28 years and was as a guiding force for KMU for over 27 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715185736244.jpeg" alt="Russell City Manager Jon Quinday was presented the 2024 Edgar P. Schowalter Award by Kansas Municipal Utilities." />
 <figcaption>Russell City Manager Jon Quinday was presented the 2024 Edgar P. Schowalter Award by Kansas Municipal Utilities.</figcaption>
 </figure>Russell City Manager Jon Quinday was presented with the 2024 Edgar P. Schowalter Award by Kansas Municipal Utilities, the statewide association of community-owned and operated electric, gas, water and wastewater utilities in Kansas.The award, the highest honor presented by KMU, is given to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the municipal utility industry. Quinday was presented the award at the KMU 2024 Conference in Wichita on April 25 by KMU Executive Director Brad Mears."Jon Quinday has been a strong voice for the municipal utility business model to provide essential utility services to the community they serve, and he has represented the municipal utility interests of his community to members of Congress and the Kansas Legislature," said Mears. "Jon also has provided thoughtful guidance on utility-related issues as well as valued input on the operation and planning for Kansas Municipal Utilities."With a background as a combat veteran in the US Army and former Russell Police Chief, he was named City Manager of Russell in 2012. Russell is a full-service municipality with over 90 employees and an annual budget exceeding $30 million, with electric, water, wastewater, sewer and sanitation utilities, along with countywide 911 communications.Throughout his career, he has firsthand insight into the complexities of municipal governance and municipal utility management. In addition, his public service extends beyond local government. Quinday has also served as school board president, president of the Kansas Municipal Energy Agency and a board member for Kansas Municipal Utilities and the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police. He has always been a strong advocate of the importance of public service.The Schowalter Award is named after the late Ed Schowalter, who was an outstanding leader in the municipal utility industry, both in Kansas and across the United States. Schowalter served the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities for 28 years and was as a guiding force for KMU for over 27 years.

Russell City Manager receives municipal utility industry award

The explosive cracking sounds of trees crashing to the ground are sickening to the stomach. With the damaging storms that have affected the area lately, trees will require special care and can make a full recovery.

Remove debris, then assess the damage The first step in caring for damaged trees is to remove all debris. This is mainly a safety factor, but also enables you to completely assess the extent of the damage.

Can the tree be saved? Next, determine whether the tree can be saved. Most trees will be salvageable and will need time to recover. If there is heavy splitting of the bark and the cambium, growth layer is exposed, or the main trunk is split, the tree will probably not survive and should be removed.

Also, if there are so many broken limbs that the form of the tree is destroyed, replacement may be the best option.

Once it has been determined that the tree can be saved then pruning begins. Broken branches should be cut back to the next larger branch or back to the trunk. Never leave a stub when making a pruning cut. Stubs lead to rot and decay, and slow the healing process.

When cutting back to the next larger crotch or branch angle, do not cut flush with the branch. Instead make the cut in the area referred to as the branch collar. The collar is a transition area between the branch and the trunk. Cutting flush with the branch or trunk leaves a larger wound, which takes longer to heal. The collar area is raised with bark tissue, much like the crease on your hand where your thumb joins the other fingers.

Larger limbs should be taken off in stages. Cutting a large branch at once often leads to a strip of bark being ripped from the tree increasing the amount of damage. The following steps to removing large branches are:

1. First cut about fifteen inches from the trunk or next larger branch. Start from the bottom and cut about one third of the way up through the branch.

2. The second cut should be made from the top down, a few inches out from the first under cut. The branch will break away at the first cut as you make the second cut.

3. Lastly, cut the remaining branch at the collar, which can be supported to prevent the bark stripping.

Avoid "door knockers." Hire a local reputable tree company Large trees are best handled by a reputable tree care service. When selecting a firm always ask for a certified arborist and never pay in advance. Quality companies will bill or collect after the work is completed.

Topping is not a recommended practice of repairing storm damage. Topping weakens trees and makes them more susceptible to disease. If the damage is this severe then the tree should be removed. Also, no wound dressings are needed.

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.

<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>The explosive cracking sounds of trees crashing to the ground are sickening to the stomach. With the damaging storms that have affected the area lately, trees will require special care and can make a full recovery.Remove debris, then assess the damage The first step in caring for damaged trees is to remove all debris. This is mainly a safety factor, but also enables you to completely assess the extent of the damage.Can the tree be saved? Next, determine whether the tree can be saved. Most trees will be salvageable and will need time to recover. If there is heavy splitting of the bark and the cambium, growth layer is exposed, or the main trunk is split, the tree will probably not survive and should be removed.Also, if there are so many broken limbs that the form of the tree is destroyed, replacement may be the best option.Once it has been determined that the tree can be saved then pruning begins. Broken branches should be cut back to the next larger branch or back to the trunk. Never leave a stub when making a pruning cut. Stubs lead to rot and decay, and slow the healing process.When cutting back to the next larger crotch or branch angle, do not cut flush with the branch. Instead make the cut in the area referred to as the branch collar. The collar is a transition area between the branch and the trunk. Cutting flush with the branch or trunk leaves a larger wound, which takes longer to heal. The collar area is raised with bark tissue, much like the crease on your hand where your thumb joins the other fingers.Larger limbs should be taken off in stages. Cutting a large branch at once often leads to a strip of bark being ripped from the tree increasing the amount of damage. The following steps to removing large branches are:1. First cut about fifteen inches from the trunk or next larger branch. Start from the bottom and cut about one third of the way up through the branch.2. The second cut should be made from the top down, a few inches out from the first under cut. The branch will break away at the first cut as you make the second cut.3. Lastly, cut the remaining branch at the collar, which can be supported to prevent the bark stripping.Avoid "door knockers." Hire a local reputable tree company Large trees are best handled by a reputable tree care service. When selecting a firm always ask for a certified arborist and never pay in advance. Quality companies will bill or collect after the work is completed.Topping is not a recommended practice of repairing storm damage. Topping weakens trees and makes them more susceptible to disease. If the damage is this severe then the tree should be removed. Also, no wound dressings are needed.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.

BOOR: Pruning after storms

After a year of growth and development, the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is celebrating its 31st Annual Benefit over Father’s Day weekend (June 14 – 15). This year’s event theme “Through the Looking Glass: Finding something special for you at Clara Barton” symbolizes the wonder of what can be achieved through community support, unlocking the latest medical advancements. Proceeds will go towards upgrading the lab’s chemistry analyzer.

To kick off Father’s Day Weekend the four-man scramble golf tournament will be held on Friday, June 14 at Lake Barton Golf Course, with tee times beginning at 7 a.m. The cost to enter the tournament is $100 per player or $400 per team. Registration includes green fees, golf cart rental, lunch on the course, and a player gift. During this year’s tournament, you will have the chance to win awards for three tournament flights – top three places, thanks to sponsors Ehler Chevrolet, First Kansas Bank, and Barton County Transfer Service. The registration deadline is Tuesday, June 11.

The Hole-In-One contest will offer golfers two chances to win $1,000 thanks to Ehler Chevrolet. Other contests sponsored by Cardinal Pharmacy include longest drive, longest putt, closest to the hole, and straightest shot for both men’s and women’s divisions.

On Saturday, June 15, a catered dinner sponsored by Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless will be available at the Columbus Club Hall (114 N. Main Street in Hoisington) with doors opening at 6 p.m. and dinner being served at 6:30 p.m. This year’s dinner includes creamy herb chicken breast, seasoned wild rice blend, green beans, dinner roll, fresh veggie basket with ranch, and cream cheese and fruit tarts.

Dinner tickets are $30 each and must be purchased by Wednesday, June 5. All tickets must be secured in advance as there will be no ticket sales on the night of the event. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the foundation at 620-292-0814 before June 5. Ticket(s) must be presented by the attendee in exchange for the meal(s).

The benefit auction will be a hybrid event like last year – with a live, in-person event after dinner and an online silent auction. After the benefit dinner on Saturday, June 15, around 7:30 p.m., specialty items, trips, and experiences will be available for live bidding. Additional silent auction items will be available for bidding online beginning Friday, June 14, and closing Saturday, June 15. To view these items and register to bid, visit www.one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or text clarabarton to 243725.

Auction items include a week-long Branson getaway, Benelli Ethos shotgun, Arkansas trip including 2-night stay in luxurious treehouse, guided fishing trip, KC Royals tickets, autographed sports memorabilia, Kansas concert tickets, MadHatter Breakout Room experience, Wichita Zoo package, hand-crafted wine cabinet, round-trip airfare for 2 between Saline and Denver or Chicago, Worlds of Fun/Ocean of Fun passes, and hand-crafted specialty items. The traveling longhorn horns will again be part of the auction this year.

We are calling on all community members to mark their calendars and plan to attend the annual benefit event and help the Clara Barton organization fund the Wonder of Innovation! To download the benefit registration form for the golf tournament or to purchase dinner tickets, please visit www.one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or call Michelle Moshier at 620-292-0814. Your support of this event is appreciated!

Please contact the foundation office if you are interested in volunteering or supporting the event. For more information about the event and for a complete listing of sponsors who make this important fundraiser possible, go to www.clarabartonhospital.com/benefit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715174695730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSAfter a year of growth and development, the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is celebrating its 31st Annual Benefit over Father’s Day weekend (June 14 – 15). This year’s event theme “Through the Looking Glass: Finding something special for you at Clara Barton” symbolizes the wonder of what can be achieved through community support, unlocking the latest medical advancements. Proceeds will go towards upgrading the lab’s chemistry analyzer.To kick off Father’s Day Weekend the four-man scramble golf tournament will be held on Friday, June 14 at Lake Barton Golf Course, with tee times beginning at 7 a.m. The cost to enter the tournament is $100 per player or $400 per team. Registration includes green fees, golf cart rental, lunch on the course, and a player gift. During this year’s tournament, you will have the chance to win awards for three tournament flights – top three places, thanks to sponsors Ehler Chevrolet, First Kansas Bank, and Barton County Transfer Service. The registration deadline is Tuesday, June 11.The Hole-In-One contest will offer golfers two chances to win $1,000 thanks to Ehler Chevrolet. Other contests sponsored by Cardinal Pharmacy include longest drive, longest putt, closest to the hole, and straightest shot for both men’s and women’s divisions.On Saturday, June 15, a catered dinner sponsored by Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless will be available at the Columbus Club Hall (114 N. Main Street in Hoisington) with doors opening at 6 p.m. and dinner being served at 6:30 p.m. This year’s dinner includes creamy herb chicken breast, seasoned wild rice blend, green beans, dinner roll, fresh veggie basket with ranch, and cream cheese and fruit tarts.Dinner tickets are $30 each and must be purchased by Wednesday, June 5. All tickets must be secured in advance as there will be no ticket sales on the night of the event. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the foundation at 620-292-0814 before June 5. Ticket(s) must be presented by the attendee in exchange for the meal(s).The benefit auction will be a hybrid event like last year – with a live, in-person event after dinner and an online silent auction. After the benefit dinner on Saturday, June 15, around 7:30 p.m., specialty items, trips, and experiences will be available for live bidding. Additional silent auction items will be available for bidding online beginning Friday, June 14, and closing Saturday, June 15. To view these items and register to bid, visit www.one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or text clarabarton to 243725.Auction items include a week-long Branson getaway, Benelli Ethos shotgun, Arkansas trip including 2-night stay in luxurious treehouse, guided fishing trip, KC Royals tickets, autographed sports memorabilia, Kansas concert tickets, MadHatter Breakout Room experience, Wichita Zoo package, hand-crafted wine cabinet, round-trip airfare for 2 between Saline and Denver or Chicago, Worlds of Fun/Ocean of Fun passes, and hand-crafted specialty items. The traveling longhorn horns will again be part of the auction this year.We are calling on all community members to mark their calendars and plan to attend the annual benefit event and help the Clara Barton organization fund the Wonder of Innovation! To download the benefit registration form for the golf tournament or to purchase dinner tickets, please visit www.one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or call Michelle Moshier at 620-292-0814. Your support of this event is appreciated!Please contact the foundation office if you are interested in volunteering or supporting the event. For more information about the event and for a complete listing of sponsors who make this important fundraiser possible, go to www.clarabartonhospital.com/benefit.

Clara Barton Foundation hosting annual benefit event

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/7)

At 12:40 p.m. an accident was reported at 57 SE 20 Road.

At 4:48 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; K-4 Highway.

At 4:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-96 &amp;
NW 30 Avenue.

At 6:45 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/7)

At 12:58 a.m. McKenna Tinkler reported a possible drunk
driver at 3307 10th Street. A traffic stop was conducted. Adolfo
Garza was arrested.

At 1:49 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2609 Lakin Avenue.

At 3:43 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Heizer.

At 4:58 p.m. a vehicle speeding in the county was reported at
K-96 Highway &amp; NW 30 Avenue.

At 5:17 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1715 3rd
Street.

At 6:07 p.m. an accident was reported at 3413 10th
Street.

At 9:34 p.m. Chris Reed was arrested at 1618 Jefferson
Street for aggravated battery.

At 10:28 p.m. disorderly conduct was reported at 1001
Parrish Ct.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/7)Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:40 p.m. an accident was reported at 57 SE 20 Road.Traffic ArrestAt 4:48 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; K-4 Highway.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-96 &amp;
NW 30 Avenue.At 6:45 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/7)Traffic ArrestAt 12:58 a.m. McKenna Tinkler reported a possible drunk
driver at 3307 10th Street. A traffic stop was conducted. Adolfo
Garza was arrested.Cardiac / RespiratoryAt 1:49 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2609 Lakin Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:43 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Heizer.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:58 p.m. a vehicle speeding in the county was reported at
K-96 Highway &amp; NW 30 Avenue.Sick PersonAt 5:17 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1715 3rd
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:07 p.m. an accident was reported at 3413 10th
Street.BatteryAt 9:34 p.m. Chris Reed was arrested at 1618 Jefferson
Street for aggravated battery.Disorderly ConductAt 10:28 p.m. disorderly conduct was reported at 1001
Parrish Ct.

Cop Shop (5/7)

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5/7 BOOKED: Adolfo Garza on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Trey Hurd on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $263 cash only.

BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: William Pertl on Barton County District Court case for No Proof of Insurance, Driving Without a CDL when Required, Improper Display of License Plate, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Joshua Frydendall on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christopher Reed on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Adolfo Garza on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Trey Hurd on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a cash bond a $263.

RELEASED: Mario Enriquez on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to Juvenile Services by order of the court.

RELEASED: Bryant Davis on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: William Pertl on Barton County District Court case for No Proof of Insurance, Driving Without a CDL when Required, Improper Display of License Plate, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>5/7 BOOKED: Adolfo Garza on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Trey Hurd on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $263 cash only.BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: William Pertl on Barton County District Court case for No Proof of Insurance, Driving Without a CDL when Required, Improper Display of License Plate, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Joshua Frydendall on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher Reed on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Adolfo Garza on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Trey Hurd on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a cash bond a $263.RELEASED: Mario Enriquez on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to Juvenile Services by order of the court.RELEASED: Bryant Davis on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, by order of the court.RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: William Pertl on Barton County District Court case for No Proof of Insurance, Driving Without a CDL when Required, Improper Display of License Plate, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Joshua Frydendall on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/7)

The City of Great Bend will rethink their approach to placing a restroom
at Langrehr Field. On the agenda Monday night, the Great Bend City Council had
a recommendation to approve the purchase of a prefabricated restroom facility for
$90,093 to be placed to the north of the ballfield. 

Great Bend Mayor Cody
Schmidt said a phone call from a citizen this week has warranted the city to
reconsider the plan.


"The caller gave us some really good thoughts and ideas about the material we were looking to purchase," said Schmidt. "The council received an email from Logan (Burns, Assistant City Administrator) stating some facts and things we just need to dig into at this time."

Through the quality-of-life sales tax initiative, the Langrehr Field bathrooms
were set to be a project in 2025. With the recent decision of tabling the Brit
Spaugh Park addition, the city proposed moving the restroom project up to this
year. 


Langrehr Field is the far east ballfield at the Great Bend Sports Complex. Outside
of the gated complex, patrons have no restroom access at Langrehr except for
the occasionally positioned portable toilets.


The council tabled the topic to receive further research on the purchase.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678393953494.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend will rethink their approach to placing a restroom
at Langrehr Field. On the agenda Monday night, the Great Bend City Council had
a recommendation to approve the purchase of a prefabricated restroom facility for
$90,093 to be placed to the north of the ballfield. Great Bend Mayor Cody
Schmidt said a phone call from a citizen this week has warranted the city to
reconsider the plan.
"The caller gave us some really good thoughts and ideas about the material we were looking to purchase," said Schmidt. "The council received an email from Logan (Burns, Assistant City Administrator) stating some facts and things we just need to dig into at this time."Through the quality-of-life sales tax initiative, the Langrehr Field bathrooms
were set to be a project in 2025. With the recent decision of tabling the Brit
Spaugh Park addition, the city proposed moving the restroom project up to this
year. 
Langrehr Field is the far east ballfield at the Great Bend Sports Complex. Outside
of the gated complex, patrons have no restroom access at Langrehr except for
the occasionally positioned portable toilets.
The council tabled the topic to receive further research on the purchase.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Great Bend taking deeper look at restroom solution at Langrehr Field

A quality-of-life sales tax project is ready for its grand opening at
Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend. After starting in October, a 50' x 70' splash pad is nearing completion with a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
ribbon cutting on May 17 at 10:30 a.m. 

Assistant City
Administrator Logan Burns said the ceremony will be good time to bring the
children.


"This has been a very exciting project," said Burns. "We'll be happy to wrap this up. Bring all the kids out. It will be end of school. We're excited to open that up."

The $680,000 splash pad features a 3,000-gallon storage tank to recycle the
water. Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said there is fencing around the feature
and upgraded irrigation.


"We're doing all the dirt work out there," said Keeler. "We installed irrigation and 800 yards of sod tentatively for Thursday. We'll probably put an additional 300 yards outside of it to finish it up and keep it from eroding down into the ditch."

The splash pad is located on the north side of the park, near the restrooms.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715096022648.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA quality-of-life sales tax project is ready for its grand opening at
Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend. After starting in October, a 50' x 70' splash pad is nearing completion with a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
ribbon cutting on May 17 at 10:30 a.m. Assistant City
Administrator Logan Burns said the ceremony will be good time to bring the
children.
"This has been a very exciting project," said Burns. "We'll be happy to wrap this up. Bring all the kids out. It will be end of school. We're excited to open that up."The $680,000 splash pad features a 3,000-gallon storage tank to recycle the
water. Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said there is fencing around the feature
and upgraded irrigation.
"We're doing all the dirt work out there," said Keeler. "We installed irrigation and 800 yards of sod tentatively for Thursday. We'll probably put an additional 300 yards outside of it to finish it up and keep it from eroding down into the ditch."The splash pad is located on the north side of the park, near the restrooms.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ribbon cutting May 17 for Great Bend splash pad

Today Sunny, with a high near 74. Northwest wind 11 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. North-northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. North wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 75. North-northwest wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Sunday A chance of rain, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Sunday Night A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Monday A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 74. Northwest wind 11 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. North-northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. North wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 75. North-northwest wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54.Sunday A chance of rain, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Sunday Night A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Monday A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Progress continues on nine new homes in Stafford County. Last Wednesday, Stafford County Economic Development broke ground on the first of the Prairie Vista Housing Project homes at 743 W. Broadway in Stafford. Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell said the homes will be great for attracting families.

"The first houses we're building right now, one is in Stafford and one is in St. John, they're both one design and they're 3-bedroom, 2-bath," he said. "There's not going to be a garage or a basement. The next seven, we'll do the same design but there will be a combination. Some might have a basement, some will have a one-car or two-car garage."

Various Stafford County officials, representatives from the offices of Sens. Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran, Kansas Housing Resources Corp., Housing Opportunities, and SJN Bank of Kansas attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Russell said it's been a community effort to bring families to Stafford County, and the new homes will give them a place to start. 

"We're really focused on trying to get families into our communities," he said. "People really like it to have two bathrooms. If they have a small family, it's easier. We have a master bedroom with a bathroom connected to that, and we have the other two bedrooms with a bathroom between them. It's kind of a setup families like."

The design also includes a wide-open living room and kitchen layout. Russell hopes to have an Open House once construction of the first home is completed, and prices for the homes will be listed as they are completed. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715015349881.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostProgress continues on nine new homes in Stafford County. Last Wednesday, Stafford County Economic Development broke ground on the first of the Prairie Vista Housing Project homes at 743 W. Broadway in Stafford. Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell said the homes will be great for attracting families."The first houses we're building right now, one is in Stafford and one is in St. John, they're both one design and they're 3-bedroom, 2-bath," he said. "There's not going to be a garage or a basement. The next seven, we'll do the same design but there will be a combination. Some might have a basement, some will have a one-car or two-car garage."Various Stafford County officials, representatives from the offices of Sens. Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran, Kansas Housing Resources Corp., Housing Opportunities, and SJN Bank of Kansas attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Russell said it's been a community effort to bring families to Stafford County, and the new homes will give them a place to start. "We're really focused on trying to get families into our communities," he said. "People really like it to have two bathrooms. If they have a small family, it's easier. We have a master bedroom with a bathroom connected to that, and we have the other two bedrooms with a bathroom between them. It's kind of a setup families like."The design also includes a wide-open living room and kitchen layout. Russell hopes to have an Open House once construction of the first home is completed, and prices for the homes will be listed as they are completed.

Stafford County Eco Devo breaks ground on first of nine new homes

The Barton County Health Department announced it will not be offering clinical services from May 8-10. Not only will the nurses be attending a conference on those dates, but Director Karen Winkelman said remodel work began Monday on the nurses' station.

"Our front doors will be open for the public to come in and have questions answered or pick up records they may need, whether it be immunization record for school enrollments, those kinds of things," she said.

The remodel, paid for with a Kansas Department of Health and Environment grant, will help health department staff better serve clients. The health department will resume normal duties on Monday, May 13.

"This construction's probably going to go into June," Winkelman said, "possibly even mid-June, but we will have the ability to provide services, just maybe in different locations in our department."

The health department's WIC and Maternal Child Health services will continue without interruption during this week's closures. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715014254785.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Health Department announced it will not be offering clinical services from May 8-10. Not only will the nurses be attending a conference on those dates, but Director Karen Winkelman said remodel work began Monday on the nurses' station."Our front doors will be open for the public to come in and have questions answered or pick up records they may need, whether it be immunization record for school enrollments, those kinds of things," she said.The remodel, paid for with a Kansas Department of Health and Environment grant, will help health department staff better serve clients. The health department will resume normal duties on Monday, May 13."This construction's probably going to go into June," Winkelman said, "possibly even mid-June, but we will have the ability to provide services, just maybe in different locations in our department."The health department's WIC and Maternal Child Health services will continue without interruption during this week's closures.

Barton Co. Health Department pausing clinical services this week

Great Bend High School's graduation is now just days away. On April 24, the school hosted a Career Fair to present job opportunities for some of those seniors as well as the Class of 2025. ACT and Career Coordinator Lacy Wolters said it was a perfect time to bring the fair to GBHS.

"We have a lot of seniors who are getting ready to head out into the workforce, and we also have juniors who are looking for internships, part-time, and summertime jobs," she said. "Typically, every year right around this time, I start getting emails from businesses looking for help, so I thought we just just bring everybody together here at the high school."

The event ran for 90 minutes inside the GBHS gymnasium and was an opportunity for area businesses to catch a glimpse of the upcoming labor market, as well as showcase what they do in the community.

"It was really great," Wolters said. "We had about 30 businesses and organizations in attendance. We did invite Barton Community College, and they brought out a lot of their programs as well. We thought it would be nice for students to see that educational piece matching up with some of those employers. We had a packed gym of tables, so it was really great to see so many businesses and organizations there."

The career fair was the first to be held at GBHS in at least a decade. Wolters expects to host a similar fair next year, probably in the spring as seniors begin pondering about life after high school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715020173139.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGreat Bend High School's graduation is now just days away. On April 24, the school hosted a Career Fair to present job opportunities for some of those seniors as well as the Class of 2025. ACT and Career Coordinator Lacy Wolters said it was a perfect time to bring the fair to GBHS."We have a lot of seniors who are getting ready to head out into the workforce, and we also have juniors who are looking for internships, part-time, and summertime jobs," she said. "Typically, every year right around this time, I start getting emails from businesses looking for help, so I thought we just just bring everybody together here at the high school."The event ran for 90 minutes inside the GBHS gymnasium and was an opportunity for area businesses to catch a glimpse of the upcoming labor market, as well as showcase what they do in the community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715020209117.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"It was really great," Wolters said. "We had about 30 businesses and organizations in attendance. We did invite Barton Community College, and they brought out a lot of their programs as well. We thought it would be nice for students to see that educational piece matching up with some of those employers. We had a packed gym of tables, so it was really great to see so many businesses and organizations there."The career fair was the first to be held at GBHS in at least a decade. Wolters expects to host a similar fair next year, probably in the spring as seniors begin pondering about life after high school.

More than two dozen businesses attend Career Fair at GBHS

A resolution to enter into an agreement with the Kansas Department of
Transportation will wait to upgrade the traffic signals at the intersection of
10th Street and McKinley Street in Great Bend.


The City of Great Bend currently has left-turn lanes with no turn signals on
McKinley Street. A project, fully funded by federal and state aid programs,
will create dedicated left-turn signals for all the traffic lights at the
intersection. 

Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning suggested tabling
the agreement due to new information.


"When the agenda was prepared there was information you received," said Glendenning. "After that, KDOT got ahold of us and indicated they wanted to send us a revised contract because there have been issues that have come up with requiring right-of-way. We're going to have to resolve these that were not dealt with in the original contract. I have been in contact with the chief counsel at KDOT to work that out."

The Great Bend City Council voted 5-0 to table the agenda item for a future
meeting.


The project started in 2019 when the city applied for a Transportation
Engineering Assistance Program (TEAP) for the 10th and McKinley
intersection. There is no local match required.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632232353026.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA resolution to enter into an agreement with the Kansas Department of
Transportation will wait to upgrade the traffic signals at the intersection of
10th Street and McKinley Street in Great Bend.
The City of Great Bend currently has left-turn lanes with no turn signals on
McKinley Street. A project, fully funded by federal and state aid programs,
will create dedicated left-turn signals for all the traffic lights at the
intersection. Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning suggested tabling
the agreement due to new information.
"When the agenda was prepared there was information you received," said Glendenning. "After that, KDOT got ahold of us and indicated they wanted to send us a revised contract because there have been issues that have come up with requiring right-of-way. We're going to have to resolve these that were not dealt with in the original contract. I have been in contact with the chief counsel at KDOT to work that out."The Great Bend City Council voted 5-0 to table the agenda item for a future
meeting.
The project started in 2019 when the city applied for a Transportation
Engineering Assistance Program (TEAP) for the 10th and McKinley
intersection. There is no local match required.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend tables project for 10th & McKinley traffic signals

True or false: car seats should be installed with both a vehicle's safety belt and latch system: the answer is false. The car seat should be installed in accordance with both the vehicle and child seat manuals. The Barton County Health Department was one of two organizations in Kansas to receive the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office's 2024 Child Passenger Safety Station of the Year designation. Tuesday morning, Sarahi Prieto and Christina Delgadillo were recognized by the Barton County Commission for their efforts. Prieto presented several other safety tips.

"A lot of people don't realize car seats have expiration dates," she said. "A lot of them are printed on the label. Some of them are just the manufacturing date and you have to refer to the car seat manual to get more information on the car seat. They also have QR codes on the manuals now so you can look up expiration dates. You can also find videos on how to properly install your car seats."

Car seats expire because the parts and materials used to make them eventually break down in the heat and cold and with the smaller impacts of routine stops during travel. Last year, the Barton County Health Department helped install 65 car seats. Delgadillo said that service continues.

"Preferably, if the child can be present, that way we can fit the straps and everything appropriately for that child it's recommended," she said.

The health department and Great Bend Fire Department offer free child seats as long as the child has KanCare, is enrolled in the WIC program, is receiving cash or food assistance, and participates in the Kansas Farm Worker Health Program. The health department will offer free car seat checks at the Community Baby Shower at Jack Kilby Square on June 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715097926527.jpeg" alt="Barton County Health Department RN Christina Delgadillo and WIC Clerk and Car Seat Technician Sarahi Prieto were recognized after earning the 2024 Child Passenger Safety Station of the Year designation from the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Health Department RN Christina Delgadillo and WIC Clerk and Car Seat Technician Sarahi Prieto were recognized after earning the 2024 Child Passenger Safety Station of the Year designation from the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTrue or false: car seats should be installed with both a vehicle's safety belt and latch system: the answer is false. The car seat should be installed in accordance with both the vehicle and child seat manuals. The Barton County Health Department was one of two organizations in Kansas to receive the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office's 2024 Child Passenger Safety Station of the Year designation. Tuesday morning, Sarahi Prieto and Christina Delgadillo were recognized by the Barton County Commission for their efforts. Prieto presented several other safety tips."A lot of people don't realize car seats have expiration dates," she said. "A lot of them are printed on the label. Some of them are just the manufacturing date and you have to refer to the car seat manual to get more information on the car seat. They also have QR codes on the manuals now so you can look up expiration dates. You can also find videos on how to properly install your car seats."Car seats expire because the parts and materials used to make them eventually break down in the heat and cold and with the smaller impacts of routine stops during travel. Last year, the Barton County Health Department helped install 65 car seats. Delgadillo said that service continues."Preferably, if the child can be present, that way we can fit the straps and everything appropriately for that child it's recommended," she said.The health department and Great Bend Fire Department offer free child seats as long as the child has KanCare, is enrolled in the WIC program, is receiving cash or food assistance, and participates in the Kansas Farm Worker Health Program. The health department will offer free car seat checks at the Community Baby Shower at Jack Kilby Square on June 13.

Barton Co. Health Department recognized for child passenger safety

By Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State Extension Plant Pathologist Submitted by Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District, Hays

The wheat crop is ahead of schedule and there is a dramatic difference in yield potential in parts of the state that have received moisture and parts that have not. Here, we review some key wheat fungicide considerations.

As of May 2, stripe rust has been detected in 24 Kansas counties. It’s important to note that most of these observations have been at very low or trace levels (Figure 1). You can keep up-to-date with reports here: https://wheat.agpestmonitor.org/. Up until this point, the disease has largely been limited by lack of moisture. Reports in the northwest portion of the state are most concerning, as the crop in this region is still in earlier growth stages, and there is ample time for stripe rust to take hold if the environment stays favorable. There are some counties where stripe rust has been detected on flag leaves at an elevated incidence. These fields should be carefully scouted and may be candidates for fungicide applications.

As a reminder, fungicides have pre-harvest intervals based on growth stages or the number of days before harvest. This publication lists some common fungicides and their pre-harvest intervals: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/ep130.pdf. It is always a good idea to consult the label prior to application. We are now fielding questions about the value of a fungicide application in fields that are between flag leaf and flowering growth stages. Here are some factors to consider as we make those decisions:

1. First and foremost, what variety is planted? Varieties rated 3 or below will likely have enough genetic resistance and will not benefit from a fungicide application. Check your variety rating here: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/mf991.pdf

2. Has disease been detected in the field? If weather conditions are favorable, fields with already established stripe rust are at the highest risk of the disease increasing in the coming days. K-State research demonstrates that if stripe rust is detected on flag leaves at the heading growth stage, there is a 90% chance your fungicide application will pay off. This is a year when scouting will be critical.

3. What is the crop's yield potential? Does the yield potential justify an application? K-State research has shown that under moderate to high stripe rust pressure, a fungicide application can provide a 10-15% yield benefit. However, in the absence of disease, we

do not expect any economically significant yield benefit from a fungicide application.

4. What kind of moisture has been received? As a reminder, it takes about 10 days from the time of infection to symptom development for stripe rust. Areas that have recently received moisture (Figure 2) and are still in the window for a fungicide application (flag leaf to flowering) should be more mindful of scouting over the coming days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714747564991.jpeg" alt="Picture of stripe rust on winter wheat" />
 <figcaption>Picture of stripe rust on winter wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>By Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State Extension Plant Pathologist Submitted by Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District, HaysThe wheat crop is ahead of schedule and there is a dramatic difference in yield potential in parts of the state that have received moisture and parts that have not. Here, we review some key wheat fungicide considerations.As of May 2, stripe rust has been detected in 24 Kansas counties. It’s important to note that most of these observations have been at very low or trace levels (Figure 1). You can keep up-to-date with reports here: https://wheat.agpestmonitor.org/. Up until this point, the disease has largely been limited by lack of moisture. Reports in the northwest portion of the state are most concerning, as the crop in this region is still in earlier growth stages, and there is ample time for stripe rust to take hold if the environment stays favorable. There are some counties where stripe rust has been detected on flag leaves at an elevated incidence. These fields should be carefully scouted and may be candidates for fungicide applications.As a reminder, fungicides have pre-harvest intervals based on growth stages or the number of days before harvest. This publication lists some common fungicides and their pre-harvest intervals: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/ep130.pdf. It is always a good idea to consult the label prior to application. We are now fielding questions about the value of a fungicide application in fields that are between flag leaf and flowering growth stages. Here are some factors to consider as we make those decisions:1. First and foremost, what variety is planted? Varieties rated 3 or below will likely have enough genetic resistance and will not benefit from a fungicide application. Check your variety rating here: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/mf991.pdf2. Has disease been detected in the field? If weather conditions are favorable, fields with already established stripe rust are at the highest risk of the disease increasing in the coming days. K-State research demonstrates that if stripe rust is detected on flag leaves at the heading growth stage, there is a 90% chance your fungicide application will pay off. This is a year when scouting will be critical.3. What is the crop's yield potential? Does the yield potential justify an application? K-State research has shown that under moderate to high stripe rust pressure, a fungicide application can provide a 10-15% yield benefit. However, in the absence of disease, wedo not expect any economically significant yield benefit from a fungicide application.4. What kind of moisture has been received? As a reminder, it takes about 10 days from the time of infection to symptom development for stripe rust. Areas that have recently received moisture (Figure 2) and are still in the window for a fungicide application (flag leaf to flowering) should be more mindful of scouting over the coming days.5. What is the fusarium head scab risk? Fields approaching early flowering with a history of head scab may be able to use a single application to control both diseases this year. All fungicides that are recommended for head scab are also recommended for stripe rust control. The risk of head scab may be elevated in fields that receive rainfall at or around flowering.Leaf rust has now been reported in Oklahoma but has not taken hold in Kansas. We will continue to monitor for it over the coming weeks.

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