Today Partly sunny, with a high near 77. North-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 52. East wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 83. Light and variable wind becoming south-southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 57. South-southeast wind around 10 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. South-southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.

Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 77. North-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 52. East wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.Friday Sunny, with a high near 83. Light and variable wind becoming south-southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 57. South-southeast wind around 10 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. South-southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

From Great Bend Economic Development...

The IGNITE Rural Business Competition, organized by Great Bend Economic Development, continues to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Barton County, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive and innovate. Designed to empower emerging ventures, IGNITE has been a catalyst for transformation, exemplified by the recent success of 10-39 Cafe in Ellinwood. Through the competition, 10-39 Cafe's owners honed their business plan, received mentorship, and navigated through rounds of eliminations to reach the live finals of the 2023 event. Their hard work paid off as they clinched 2nd place, earning a $30,000 grant, and secured the People's Choice award, adding an extra $5,000 to their prize money.

To celebrate this success, IGNITE the Night with 10-39 Cafe will take place on this Friday, May 17th between 5-8 pm at 10-39 Cafe, 104 W 1st in Ellinwood. This event celebrates 10-39 Cafe's journey to success, and the community is invited to join the celebration.

Attendees can expect an evening filled with camaraderie, celebration, and inspiration. Complimentary appetizers, entries for door prizes, and drink tickets will be provided, offering a taste of the atmosphere at 10-39 Cafe. 10-39 Cafe’s full menu is also available to purchase food that evening as well.

To learn more about IGNITE and to relive the excitement of the 2023 Grand Finale, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igniteks.com/" target="_blank">www.igniteks.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715783418711.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend Economic Development...The IGNITE Rural Business Competition, organized by Great Bend Economic Development, continues to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Barton County, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive and innovate. Designed to empower emerging ventures, IGNITE has been a catalyst for transformation, exemplified by the recent success of 10-39 Cafe in Ellinwood. Through the competition, 10-39 Cafe's owners honed their business plan, received mentorship, and navigated through rounds of eliminations to reach the live finals of the 2023 event. Their hard work paid off as they clinched 2nd place, earning a $30,000 grant, and secured the People's Choice award, adding an extra $5,000 to their prize money.To celebrate this success, IGNITE the Night with 10-39 Cafe will take place on this Friday, May 17th between 5-8 pm at 10-39 Cafe, 104 W 1st in Ellinwood. This event celebrates 10-39 Cafe's journey to success, and the community is invited to join the celebration.Attendees can expect an evening filled with camaraderie, celebration, and inspiration. Complimentary appetizers, entries for door prizes, and drink tickets will be provided, offering a taste of the atmosphere at 10-39 Cafe. 10-39 Cafe’s full menu is also available to purchase food that evening as well.To learn more about IGNITE and to relive the excitement of the 2023 Grand Finale, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igniteks.com/" target="_blank">www.igniteks.com</a>.

IGNITE the Night in Ellinwood on Friday

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Donald Trump, O.J. Simpson, Martha Stewart. The highest-profile alleged offenders draw the biggest headlines. That can make selecting an unbiased jury for criminal cases against celebrities a difficult game for prosecutors. Fortunately, there is a process to weed out bias before the trial begins. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris said it's generally not difficult to find impartial jurors for local cases.

"It's usually not hard at all," he said Thursday on KVGB 1590/95.5 FM's "County Edition" program. "Take the headlines right now: pretty impossible to find a jury who might not have strong opinions about prosecuting a former president. That's tough. Prosecuting some guy nobody knows who got caught with a couple pounds of methamphetamine, and no one really knows him, it's not going to be hard."

Because jurors are summoned randomly, they may know key parties of the case or have strong opinions about the case. Prosecutors and defense attorneys get to ask jurors questions to determine who is best fit to make an impartial decision based on the evidence. After the verdict, the attorneys may ask the jurors how the trial went.

"Every time, for the most part, I've lost a jury trial - just me personally, not the office - they've always said, 'No, we think they did it. We just respect the burden of proof,'" Morris said. "There's never been a jury where we thought we had a bias problem."

While many dread receiving a jury summons in the mail, Morris said jurors usually enjoy fulfilling their civic duty.

"When you are done, my experience is you will feel differently," he said. "Everybody I've ever talked to said having served on a jury was a very rewarding experience. Even though they walked into it with a little bit of negativity, everybody walked out of it positively. Everybody, from my experience, has always taken it very seriously. As you listen to the evidence that's specific to the case, it just becomes crystal clear to everybody how we need that participation and we need everybody to take it seriously. Regardless of how they end up ruling on that case, we have to have people doing it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561032847131.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostDonald Trump, O.J. Simpson, Martha Stewart. The highest-profile alleged offenders draw the biggest headlines. That can make selecting an unbiased jury for criminal cases against celebrities a difficult game for prosecutors. Fortunately, there is a process to weed out bias before the trial begins. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris said it's generally not difficult to find impartial jurors for local cases."It's usually not hard at all," he said Thursday on KVGB 1590/95.5 FM's "County Edition" program. "Take the headlines right now: pretty impossible to find a jury who might not have strong opinions about prosecuting a former president. That's tough. Prosecuting some guy nobody knows who got caught with a couple pounds of methamphetamine, and no one really knows him, it's not going to be hard."Because jurors are summoned randomly, they may know key parties of the case or have strong opinions about the case. Prosecutors and defense attorneys get to ask jurors questions to determine who is best fit to make an impartial decision based on the evidence. After the verdict, the attorneys may ask the jurors how the trial went."Every time, for the most part, I've lost a jury trial - just me personally, not the office - they've always said, 'No, we think they did it. We just respect the burden of proof,'" Morris said. "There's never been a jury where we thought we had a bias problem."While many dread receiving a jury summons in the mail, Morris said jurors usually enjoy fulfilling their civic duty."When you are done, my experience is you will feel differently," he said. "Everybody I've ever talked to said having served on a jury was a very rewarding experience. Even though they walked into it with a little bit of negativity, everybody walked out of it positively. Everybody, from my experience, has always taken it very seriously. As you listen to the evidence that's specific to the case, it just becomes crystal clear to everybody how we need that participation and we need everybody to take it seriously. Regardless of how they end up ruling on that case, we have to have people doing it."

Barton Co. Attorney: Jury duty is often a rewarding experience

Participants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.

About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.

About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.

Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.

Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.

Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.

For the week ending May 12, 2024, Kansas winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 22% poor, 34% fair, 28% good and 3% excellent. Kansas winter wheat jointed was 97%, ahead of 84% last year and 89% for the five-year average. Headed was 73%, well ahead of 48% last year and 43% average. Coloring was 1%.

In addition to Kansas reports, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado met the group in Colby to give reports from their states.

Royce Schaneman from Nebraska Wheat Board reported that USDA estimates the Nebraska crop at 40.8 million bushels, which is up from 36.96 million bushels last year. Yield is estimated at 48 bushels per acre.

A report from Colorado estimated the crop at 72 million bushels, based on a yield of 44 bushels per acre and 2.1 million acres planted. This is lower than the May 1 USDA estimate of 81.4 million bushels, based on slightly higher abandonment. Last year’s production was 74.62 million bushels.

These estimates are for this year’s hard winter wheat crop during this current snapshot in time.

Wheat Tour 24 continues Wednesday with six routes between Colby and Wichita, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715792354712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Participants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.For the week ending May 12, 2024, Kansas winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 22% poor, 34% fair, 28% good and 3% excellent. Kansas winter wheat jointed was 97%, ahead of 84% last year and 89% for the five-year average. Headed was 73%, well ahead of 48% last year and 43% average. Coloring was 1%.In addition to Kansas reports, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado met the group in Colby to give reports from their states.Royce Schaneman from Nebraska Wheat Board reported that USDA estimates the Nebraska crop at 40.8 million bushels, which is up from 36.96 million bushels last year. Yield is estimated at 48 bushels per acre.A report from Colorado estimated the crop at 72 million bushels, based on a yield of 44 bushels per acre and 2.1 million acres planted. This is lower than the May 1 USDA estimate of 81.4 million bushels, based on slightly higher abandonment. Last year’s production was 74.62 million bushels.These estimates are for this year’s hard winter wheat crop during this current snapshot in time.Wheat Tour 24 continues Wednesday with six routes between Colby and Wichita, Kansas.

Kansas Wheat Tour 2024, Day 1

A new R.I.S.E. program in USD 428 was presented as a first-read item on Monday's board of education agenda with no vote expected. The board was so impressed with the idea behind the program that a vote was held and the program was approved. Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley explained how the Resilience, Inspire, Self-Empowerment program works.

"The R.I.S.E. program focuses on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being," she said. "It is an alternative to out-of-school suspension (OSS). Focusing primarily on elementary schools, we have had a number of students who have received OSS due to behaviors. This keeps them in school although in an alternative setting. It keeps them working on their work, and it keeps them progressing. It also focuses on some social-emotional as well."

The district will work with Educational Services and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas (ESSDACK) to set up the tiered program. Level one is a "bare-bones" setting to incentivize the student to progress through the levels. Levels two through four will provide more access to items. Once students reach level four, staff will work toward reintegration back into the classroom. The program will initially be used only at Park Elementary School, and Principal Kelsey Sciacca explained how integration works.

"If a student was coming back on Monday - let's say they had been at this program for a week - we would meet on Friday with the team from our school," she said. "That would be our student-family advocate, their assistant, myself, and their classroom teacher because that classroom teacher is key to helping them integrate. We want them to understand what they've gone through and learned in levels one, two, three, and four."

The board of education approved the project at a one-time cost of $13,600, which includes the framework for the program, curriculum, and training. The program will be housed at the old Washington Elementary building. Additional costs could be incurred if the program is added at other schools and on-site training is required.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715702014780.jpeg" alt="Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E. at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E. at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA new R.I.S.E. program in USD 428 was presented as a first-read item on Monday's board of education agenda with no vote expected. The board was so impressed with the idea behind the program that a vote was held and the program was approved. Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley explained how the Resilience, Inspire, Self-Empowerment program works."The R.I.S.E. program focuses on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being," she said. "It is an alternative to out-of-school suspension (OSS). Focusing primarily on elementary schools, we have had a number of students who have received OSS due to behaviors. This keeps them in school although in an alternative setting. It keeps them working on their work, and it keeps them progressing. It also focuses on some social-emotional as well."The district will work with Educational Services and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas (ESSDACK) to set up the tiered program. Level one is a "bare-bones" setting to incentivize the student to progress through the levels. Levels two through four will provide more access to items. Once students reach level four, staff will work toward reintegration back into the classroom. The program will initially be used only at Park Elementary School, and Principal Kelsey Sciacca explained how integration works."If a student was coming back on Monday - let's say they had been at this program for a week - we would meet on Friday with the team from our school," she said. "That would be our student-family advocate, their assistant, myself, and their classroom teacher because that classroom teacher is key to helping them integrate. We want them to understand what they've gone through and learned in levels one, two, three, and four."The board of education approved the project at a one-time cost of $13,600, which includes the framework for the program, curriculum, and training. The program will be housed at the old Washington Elementary building. Additional costs could be incurred if the program is added at other schools and on-site training is required.

USD 428 board approves new R.I.S.E. program at Park Elementary 

Venture Corporation plans to begin work on the NE 30
Road asphalt resurfacing project on Friday, May 17.&nbsp;The project extends from US-281 highway
east to NE 30 Avenue.&nbsp;The project involves the placement of a hot mix
asphalt overlay followed by rock edge wedges and pavement striping.&nbsp;Work
is expected to be completed in about two weeks.&nbsp; 


Traffic will be guided through the construction zone with the use of flaggers
and a pilot car during the day, and there may be delays of up to 15 minutes in
the work zone.&nbsp; 


Motorists are asked to slow down and be alert to the construction workers and
equipment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707264520862.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Barton County...Venture Corporation plans to begin work on the NE 30
Road asphalt resurfacing project on Friday, May 17.&nbsp;The project extends from US-281 highway
east to NE 30 Avenue.&nbsp;The project involves the placement of a hot mix
asphalt overlay followed by rock edge wedges and pavement striping.&nbsp;Work
is expected to be completed in about two weeks.&nbsp; 
Traffic will be guided through the construction zone with the use of flaggers
and a pilot car during the day, and there may be delays of up to 15 minutes in
the work zone.&nbsp; 
Motorists are asked to slow down and be alert to the construction workers and
equipment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Resurfacing JUCO road begins Friday in Barton Co.

Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.

Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.

Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.

There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.

For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.

For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.

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.

<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>Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.Column adapted from publication L-231Alicia 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.

BOOR: Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May

PAWNEE COUNTY—A Rush County man accused of child sex crimes made a court appearance in Pawnee County on Monday for a preliminary hearing.

Tyler J. Whitten, 30 of La Crosse, is charged with Rape and Aggravated Sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

The alleged acts in Pawnee County occurred at a private residence in Larned sometime between September 16, 2021, and March 1, 2023, and were discovered during an investigation by the Rush County Sheriff regarding similar allegations. 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is assisting in the investigation at the request of the Rush County Sheriff.

Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate felony sexual offenses and bound Whitten over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for July 18, according to McNett.

Based on the age of the alleged victim, if convicted Whitten faces a mandatory 25 years to life sentence under the Jessica’s Law sentencing provisions. He would also be subject to registration as a sex offender under the Kansas Offender Registration Act.

On July 25, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested Whitten in Rush County. He has been in the custody of the Barton County Sheriff since his arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715702737731.png" alt="Whitten photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Whitten photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A Rush County man accused of child sex crimes made a court appearance in Pawnee County on Monday for a preliminary hearing.Tyler J. Whitten, 30 of La Crosse, is charged with Rape and Aggravated Sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.The alleged acts in Pawnee County occurred at a private residence in Larned sometime between September 16, 2021, and March 1, 2023, and were discovered during an investigation by the Rush County Sheriff regarding similar allegations. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is assisting in the investigation at the request of the Rush County Sheriff.Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate felony sexual offenses and bound Whitten over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for July 18, according to McNett.Based on the age of the alleged victim, if convicted Whitten faces a mandatory 25 years to life sentence under the Jessica’s Law sentencing provisions. He would also be subject to registration as a sex offender under the Kansas Offender Registration Act.On July 25, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested Whitten in Rush County. He has been in the custody of the Barton County Sheriff since his arrest.

La Crosse man will face trial for alleged child sex crimes

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/14)

At 7:44 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 120
Avenue &amp; NE 230 Road in Claflin.

At 9:47 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 867 NW 90
Road in Olmitz.

At 11:07 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avneue.

At 3:10 p.m. threats were reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue.

At 3:27 p.m. a fire was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp;
SE 130 Avenue in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/14)

At 8:58 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3820
Broadway Avenue.

At 10:01 a.m. a report of damaging the power outlets on the
outside of the building was made at 906 McKinley Street.

At 10:44 a.m. a report of someone damaging a window on the
building was made at 5223 10th Street.

At 11:44 a.m. a subject following him was reported at 1919
Harrison.

At 1:18 p.m. a theft of items from his residence was reported
at 1335 22nd Street.

At 1:20 p.m. a theft was reported at Madison &amp; 7th
Street.

At 3:09 p.m. a possible theft from a gift card was reported
at 1901 Jackson Street.

At 4:16 p.m. a hit and run was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 4:22 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3307 10th
Street.

At 5:23 p.m. a vehicle almost running him off the road was
reported at 3920 10th Street.

At 5:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th
Street.

At 6:38 p.m. a vehicle swerving in traffic was reported at
10th &amp; McKinley.

At 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.

At 9:55 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1310 Harding
Street.

At 10:18 p.m. loud music was reported at 4800 10th
Street.

Allergies / Envenomation

At 11:32 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3014 Forrest. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/14)Cattle OutAt 7:44 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 120
Avenue &amp; NE 230 Road in Claflin.Animal ComplaintAt 9:47 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 867 NW 90
Road in Olmitz.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:07 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avneue.Threat / Criminal ThreatsAt 3:10 p.m. threats were reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue.FireAt 3:27 p.m. a fire was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp;
SE 130 Avenue in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/14)Sick PersonAt 8:58 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3820
Broadway Avenue.Criminal DamageAt 10:01 a.m. a report of damaging the power outlets on the
outside of the building was made at 906 McKinley Street.At 10:44 a.m. a report of someone damaging a window on the
building was made at 5223 10th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:44 a.m. a subject following him was reported at 1919
Harrison.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 1:18 p.m. a theft of items from his residence was reported
at 1335 22nd Street.TheftAt 1:20 p.m. a theft was reported at Madison &amp; 7th
Street.At 3:09 p.m. a possible theft from a gift card was reported
at 1901 Jackson Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:16 p.m. a hit and run was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Chest PainAt 4:22 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3307 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:23 p.m. a vehicle almost running him off the road was
reported at 3920 10th Street.At 5:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th
Street.At 6:38 p.m. a vehicle swerving in traffic was reported at
10th &amp; McKinley.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.Sick PersonAt 9:55 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1310 Harding
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 10:18 p.m. loud music was reported at 4800 10th
Street.Allergies / Envenomation

At 11:32 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3014 Forrest.

Cop Shop (5/14)

News From The Oil Patch, May 13 John P. Tretbar

The federal government's antitrust watchdog has barred Scott Sheffield from taking a seat on the board of directors when Exxon-Mobil buys Pioneer Energy, the giant oil producer Sheffield founded.&nbsp; The Federal Trade Commission declined to challenge the $60 BILLION deal on the condition Sheffield be excluded from the board. The proposed consent order also bars Sheffield from serving in any advisory capacity at Exxon and prohibits the oil giant from appointing any Pioneer employee or director to its board for five years.

The benchmark Nymex crude futures contract dropped a dollar Friday to $78.26 per barrel.&nbsp; By midday Monday, New York crude prices were up a few cents from Friday's close at $78.68 a barrel. London Brent was also slightly higher, trading over $83 by teatime. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $68.50 per barrel after dropping a dollar on Friday.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service drops by one rig to 17 in Western Kansas, with drilling underway on a lease in Russell County Friday. The tally is unchanged at 13 active rigs east of Wichita.

The state approved 13 new drilling locations last week. That's 331 so far this year, compared to 331 last year at this time. There are eight new permits east of Wichita, and five in Western Kansas, including a new one in Barton County.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports one completion in Barton County out of 14 west of Wichita. Operators completed 46 new wells statewide. The running total this year is 452 wells, compared to 638 a year ago.

The government reports commercial crude inventories dropped by 1.4 million barrels last week to 459.5 million as of May 3rd. Commercial stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year average.

Crude imports outpaced exports by two-and-a-half million barrels a day last week. The difference is down slightly from a week ago but up from the four-week average. U.S. crude oil imports averaged 7.0 million barrels per day. That's an increase of 198 thousand barrels per day from the previous week, and about 300-thousand barrels a day over the four-week average. EIA says crude exports averaged 4.4 million barrels a day, up half a million barrels week-over-week but slightly less than the four-week average.

The government reported another refill purchase for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the fourth in four weeks. The weekly inventory report from the Energy Information Administration shows an additional 900-thousand barrels added to the SPR since last week. That's nearly three million barrels of crude in the last month. The government received an average of $95 a barrel when strategic stockpiles were sold to manage crude prices after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. They've been buying it back at around $78, and in the process have realized savings of about $50 million so far.

Some of the biggest players in the patch are doubling down on Texas and New Mexico, and that could spur even more mergers and acquisitions elsewhere. ExxonMobil, Chevron, Occidental and Diamondback Energy all plan to divest assets outside the Permian Basin worth tens of billions of dollars. Chevron intends to divest approximately $10 billion to $15 billion of assets by 2028, while Oxy plans to divest between $4.5 billion and $6 billion. A report by Rystad Energy and World Oil suggests this could pave the way for a power-shift among a new batch of deal-hungry players. Global mergers and acquisitions this year have already topped $64 BILLION, an increase of 145% over last year at this time, and the biggest first-quarter total in five years.

A large energy investment firm plans to continue spending on the liquefied natural gas export industry in this country, despite the Biden Administration's pause in new permitting. Ben Dell of Kimmeridge Energy Management tells Bloomberg his company expects to make additional investments in a proposed LNG export facility offshore near Louisiana, but says they're open to other prospects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News From The Oil Patch, May 13 John P. TretbarThe federal government's antitrust watchdog has barred Scott Sheffield from taking a seat on the board of directors when Exxon-Mobil buys Pioneer Energy, the giant oil producer Sheffield founded.&nbsp; The Federal Trade Commission declined to challenge the $60 BILLION deal on the condition Sheffield be excluded from the board. The proposed consent order also bars Sheffield from serving in any advisory capacity at Exxon and prohibits the oil giant from appointing any Pioneer employee or director to its board for five years.The benchmark Nymex crude futures contract dropped a dollar Friday to $78.26 per barrel.&nbsp; By midday Monday, New York crude prices were up a few cents from Friday's close at $78.68 a barrel. London Brent was also slightly higher, trading over $83 by teatime. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $68.50 per barrel after dropping a dollar on Friday.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service drops by one rig to 17 in Western Kansas, with drilling underway on a lease in Russell County Friday. The tally is unchanged at 13 active rigs east of Wichita.The state approved 13 new drilling locations last week. That's 331 so far this year, compared to 331 last year at this time. There are eight new permits east of Wichita, and five in Western Kansas, including a new one in Barton County.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports one completion in Barton County out of 14 west of Wichita. Operators completed 46 new wells statewide. The running total this year is 452 wells, compared to 638 a year ago.The government reports commercial crude inventories dropped by 1.4 million barrels last week to 459.5 million as of May 3rd. Commercial stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year average.Crude imports outpaced exports by two-and-a-half million barrels a day last week. The difference is down slightly from a week ago but up from the four-week average. U.S. crude oil imports averaged 7.0 million barrels per day. That's an increase of 198 thousand barrels per day from the previous week, and about 300-thousand barrels a day over the four-week average. EIA says crude exports averaged 4.4 million barrels a day, up half a million barrels week-over-week but slightly less than the four-week average.The government reported another refill purchase for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the fourth in four weeks. The weekly inventory report from the Energy Information Administration shows an additional 900-thousand barrels added to the SPR since last week. That's nearly three million barrels of crude in the last month. The government received an average of $95 a barrel when strategic stockpiles were sold to manage crude prices after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. They've been buying it back at around $78, and in the process have realized savings of about $50 million so far.Some of the biggest players in the patch are doubling down on Texas and New Mexico, and that could spur even more mergers and acquisitions elsewhere. ExxonMobil, Chevron, Occidental and Diamondback Energy all plan to divest assets outside the Permian Basin worth tens of billions of dollars. Chevron intends to divest approximately $10 billion to $15 billion of assets by 2028, while Oxy plans to divest between $4.5 billion and $6 billion. A report by Rystad Energy and World Oil suggests this could pave the way for a power-shift among a new batch of deal-hungry players. Global mergers and acquisitions this year have already topped $64 BILLION, an increase of 145% over last year at this time, and the biggest first-quarter total in five years.Some of the biggest players in the patch are doubling down on Texas and New Mexico, and that could spur even more mergers and acquisitions elsewhere. ExxonMobil, Chevron, Occidental and Diamondback Energy all plan to divest assets outside the Permian Basin worth tens of billions of dollars. Chevron intends to divest approximately $10 billion to $15 billion of assets by 2028, while Oxy plans to divest between $4.5 billion and $6 billion. A report by Rystad Energy and World Oil suggests this could pave the way for a power-shift among a new batch of deal-hungry players. Global mergers and acquisitions this year have already topped $64 BILLION, an increase of 145% over last year at this time, and the biggest first-quarter total in five years.A large energy investment firm plans to continue spending on the liquefied natural gas export industry in this country, despite the Biden Administration's pause in new permitting. Ben Dell of Kimmeridge Energy Management tells Bloomberg his company expects to make additional investments in a proposed LNG export facility offshore near Louisiana, but says they're open to other prospects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: FTC blocks Pioneer Chief from joining Exxon board

Eagle Media Center-12th &amp; Baker:&nbsp; .11 3-miles No. of Alexander: Charles Austin: .25 North of Albert-Steve Schneider: .25 Quail Creek, Great Bend: Kevyn Soupiset: .12 North of Susank-Don Mai: .34 No. of Larned/West of Great Bend-Gerald Oetken: .32 Seward Metroplex - Richard Devine: .80 So. of Rush Center-Marvin Schnieder: .48 South Hoisington-London Reif:&nbsp; .21 Bissell Point, No. of Great Bend-Phil G.: .12 American Plains Coop test plot West of G.B.: 17 West Great Bend-Juan Yureva: .14 BTI South of Great Bend: .15 Panning Ranch East of Ellinwood: .18 Great Bend High School-Mike Courson: .11 West of Larned: Gary Wagner: .85 North of Hollyrood-Andrew: .27 North Larned-Garrett Fitzpatrick:&nbsp;.94

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694524813841.jpeg" alt="Rainfall totals for May 15 called into the 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM studio 792-2479 before 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 15." />
 <figcaption>Rainfall totals for May 15 called into the 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM studio 792-2479 before 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 15.</figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Media Center-12th &amp; Baker:&nbsp; .11 3-miles No. of Alexander: Charles Austin: .25 North of Albert-Steve Schneider: .25 Quail Creek, Great Bend: Kevyn Soupiset: .12 North of Susank-Don Mai: .34 No. of Larned/West of Great Bend-Gerald Oetken: .32 Seward Metroplex - Richard Devine: .80 So. of Rush Center-Marvin Schnieder: .48 South Hoisington-London Reif:&nbsp; .21 Bissell Point, No. of Great Bend-Phil G.: .12 American Plains Coop test plot West of G.B.: 17 West Great Bend-Juan Yureva: .14 BTI South of Great Bend: .15 Panning Ranch East of Ellinwood: .18 Great Bend High School-Mike Courson: .11 West of Larned: Gary Wagner: .85 North of Hollyrood-Andrew: .27 North Larned-Garrett Fitzpatrick:&nbsp;.94

Area Rainfall totals (5/15/24)

5/15 BOOKED: Luis Cerna-Gonzalez on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to KDOC.

BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $1,713 cash only.

BOOKED: Elias Trejo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $746.71 cash only.

BOOKED: Mark Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Mario Arias on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $1,713 cash bond.

RELEASED: Mark Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>5/15 BOOKED: Luis Cerna-Gonzalez on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to KDOC.BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $1,713 cash only.BOOKED: Elias Trejo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $746.71 cash only.BOOKED: Mark Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Mario Arias on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $1,713 cash bond.RELEASED: Mark Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/15)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Spring cleaning is in full bloom with the Great Bend Police Department.
As a way to clean up trash and refuse, the Police Department pitched the idea
of Project Clean Sweep. 

Police Chief Steve Haulmark said officers, along with
individuals facing traffic violations or misdemeanor charges, have found areas
throughout town that need cleaning. 


"We have continued to do good things with that," said Haulmark. "We've focused a lot on parks and common areas unless we have a specific project, which we've identified a couple."

Clean Sweep focused on Brit Spaugh Park and Heizer Park earlier this month where Haulmark said
participants collected nine bags of trash.


Clean Sweep offers an alternative to paying a fine for the individuals with the
violations or charges. The program has also assisted in avoiding potential abatements
throughout the city.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715628554782.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostSpring cleaning is in full bloom with the Great Bend Police Department.
As a way to clean up trash and refuse, the Police Department pitched the idea
of Project Clean Sweep. Police Chief Steve Haulmark said officers, along with
individuals facing traffic violations or misdemeanor charges, have found areas
throughout town that need cleaning. 
"We have continued to do good things with that," said Haulmark. "We've focused a lot on parks and common areas unless we have a specific project, which we've identified a couple."Clean Sweep focused on Brit Spaugh Park and Heizer Park earlier this month where Haulmark said
participants collected nine bags of trash.
Clean Sweep offers an alternative to paying a fine for the individuals with the
violations or charges. The program has also assisted in avoiding potential abatements
throughout the city.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend police continue cleanup efforts around town

Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 79. Southeast wind 8 to 13 mph.

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56. North wind 5 to 11 mph.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North wind around 8 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. East-northeast wind 5 to 8 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. North-northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 58.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 87.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 57.

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

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy.

Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 79. Southeast wind 8 to 13 mph.Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56. North wind 5 to 11 mph.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North wind around 8 mph.Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. East-northeast wind 5 to 8 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. North-northwest wind 5 to 9 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 58.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 87.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 57.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) announced that the Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund to be used to help fund this year’s Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep.

The Kansas Children’s Service League has partnered with the Barton County Health Department and Great Bend Fire Department to co-host the 4th Annual Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. on June 13, 2024, at Jack Kilby Square. The central focus of the event is to teach participants about infant sleep. After completing the training, parents will receive a pack and play. Infant mortality remains a problem in the United States with sleep-related deaths accounting for a significant portion. Educating parents and their support people on the ABCs of Safe Sleep, which is that all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs and in a Clutter-free Crib, will help decrease the number of infant sleep-related deaths.

KCSL works to create and restore healthy parent-child relationships. Using evidence-based programming, they provide services such as child abuse prevention, school readiness, family support and education. These services are designed to help children and parents develop the skills necessary to be successful in their homes, schools, and workplaces with a goal to create, repair, and restore healthy parent-child relationships – the foundation of a strong family. For more information about KCSL or to find out how you can help call 620-603-8442.

The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have once again each contributed $10,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $145,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.

Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715611339470.jpeg" alt="Wheatland Electric Cooperative member services and key accounts manager Mary Hoisington (3rd from the left) presents a $1,000 WEC Sharing Success grant to the committee facilitating the Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep represented by Beverly Frizell, Barton County Health Department (second from right) and employees of the Kansas Children's Service League (left to right) Mary Dutton, Starla Bieberle, Jillian Doyla, Connie Cale and Vicki Richardson." />
 <figcaption>Wheatland Electric Cooperative member services and key accounts manager Mary Hoisington (3rd from the left) presents a $1,000 WEC Sharing Success grant to the committee facilitating the Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep represented by Beverly Frizell, Barton County Health Department (second from right) and employees of the Kansas Children's Service League (left to right) Mary Dutton, Starla Bieberle, Jillian Doyla, Connie Cale and Vicki Richardson.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSWheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) announced that the Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund to be used to help fund this year’s Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep.The Kansas Children’s Service League has partnered with the Barton County Health Department and Great Bend Fire Department to co-host the 4th Annual Community Baby Shower for Safe Sleep from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. on June 13, 2024, at Jack Kilby Square. The central focus of the event is to teach participants about infant sleep. After completing the training, parents will receive a pack and play. Infant mortality remains a problem in the United States with sleep-related deaths accounting for a significant portion. Educating parents and their support people on the ABCs of Safe Sleep, which is that all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs and in a Clutter-free Crib, will help decrease the number of infant sleep-related deaths.KCSL works to create and restore healthy parent-child relationships. Using evidence-based programming, they provide services such as child abuse prevention, school readiness, family support and education. These services are designed to help children and parents develop the skills necessary to be successful in their homes, schools, and workplaces with a goal to create, repair, and restore healthy parent-child relationships – the foundation of a strong family. For more information about KCSL or to find out how you can help call 620-603-8442.The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have once again each contributed $10,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $145,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.

Kansas Children’s Service League receives grant from Wheatland Electric

The Great Bend Public Library staff is preparing for their summer
events. The theme this summer is “Adventure Starts at your Library.” Staff will
focus on the national parks and have related events and activities throughout the summer
months. 

Library Director Maribeth Shafer said the kickoff is May 31 and the end of summer party will be July 19. 

"The end of summer party which is a Mario adventure party," said Shafer. "We'll take the video game and bring it to life. It should be a lot of fun."

The kickoff will include outdoor and indoor games before the June Jaunt parade
in downtown Great Bend.


The library is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10
a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715270149927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Public Library staff is preparing for their summer
events. The theme this summer is “Adventure Starts at your Library.” Staff will
focus on the national parks and have related events and activities throughout the summer
months. Library Director Maribeth Shafer said the kickoff is May 31 and the end of summer party will be July 19. "The end of summer party which is a Mario adventure party," said Shafer. "We'll take the video game and bring it to life. It should be a lot of fun."The kickoff will include outdoor and indoor games before the June Jaunt parade
in downtown Great Bend.
The library is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10
a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend library getting ready for adventurous summer

Barton County Historical Society will play host to Mildred Schindler Janzen at 7 p.m., Monday, May 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;Janzen will be present to answer questions to those in attendance after a brief documentary about her life is screened in the Ray Schulz Research Library at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend. Admission is $5, while members and those 16 and under are free. Light refreshments will be served following the program.

Seventy-five years after the end of World War II, Mildred Schindler Janzen, 95 of Ellsworth, finally decided to tell her story. Janzen was a teenager when Russian soldiers invaded their peaceful family farm in the German countryside and changed the course of her life forever.

Janzen’s memoir, published in late 2020 by Sunbury Press, recounts her experiences as a refugee including separating from her family, coming to America alone as a teenager, finding love, and living the good life. The secret to her abundant joy is revealed in&nbsp;Surviving Hitler, Evading Stalin: One Woman’s Remarkable Escape from Nazi Germany.

“I wish to leave a testimony for the younger American generation that is coming of age at this present time.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not ever take the legacy of your birthright for granted.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oppose evil at every opportunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speak out against injustice.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most importantly, pay attention in your history class.&nbsp;&nbsp;History can repeat itself; many of my generation bear witness to that fact,” Janzen said.

Mississippi writer, Sherye Green, partnered with Janzen to write her riveting memoir. Along with Mildred, Green was named the&nbsp;winner of the 2021 Mississippi Library Association Author Award-Nonfiction for the memoir.&nbsp;

“What a privilege it has been to get to know and to work with Mildred,” Green says. “Her story, set against the backdrop of a little-known period of World War II, is an eyewitness testimony to history you will not want to miss.”

Surviving Hitler, Evading Stalin&nbsp;won the 2020 and 2021 “Sunny Award” from Sunbury Press in for&nbsp;the book in each imprint that “had the biggest impact or the greatest reach.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, Janzen received the&nbsp;National Medal of Honor&nbsp;from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), their highest national award, and another DAR medal for&nbsp;Women in History. The memoir was named a 2021 American Book Fest – Best Book Award Finalist for Autobiographies &amp; Memoirs and won a silver medal in the 2022 Illumination Book Awards:&nbsp;&nbsp;Biography/Memoir-Inspiration. A short documentary, Mildred’s Escape, has also won ten awards in film festivals worldwide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715613537687.jpeg" alt="Mildred Schindler Janzen" />
 <figcaption>Mildred Schindler Janzen</figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Historical Society will play host to Mildred Schindler Janzen at 7 p.m., Monday, May 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;Janzen will be present to answer questions to those in attendance after a brief documentary about her life is screened in the Ray Schulz Research Library at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend. Admission is $5, while members and those 16 and under are free. Light refreshments will be served following the program.Seventy-five years after the end of World War II, Mildred Schindler Janzen, 95 of Ellsworth, finally decided to tell her story. Janzen was a teenager when Russian soldiers invaded their peaceful family farm in the German countryside and changed the course of her life forever.Janzen’s memoir, published in late 2020 by Sunbury Press, recounts her experiences as a refugee including separating from her family, coming to America alone as a teenager, finding love, and living the good life. The secret to her abundant joy is revealed in&nbsp;Surviving Hitler, Evading Stalin: One Woman’s Remarkable Escape from Nazi Germany.“I wish to leave a testimony for the younger American generation that is coming of age at this present time.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not ever take the legacy of your birthright for granted.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oppose evil at every opportunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speak out against injustice.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most importantly, pay attention in your history class.&nbsp;&nbsp;History can repeat itself; many of my generation bear witness to that fact,” Janzen said.Mississippi writer, Sherye Green, partnered with Janzen to write her riveting memoir. Along with Mildred, Green was named the&nbsp;winner of the 2021 Mississippi Library Association Author Award-Nonfiction for the memoir.&nbsp;“What a privilege it has been to get to know and to work with Mildred,” Green says. “Her story, set against the backdrop of a little-known period of World War II, is an eyewitness testimony to history you will not want to miss.”Surviving Hitler, Evading Stalin&nbsp;won the 2020 and 2021 “Sunny Award” from Sunbury Press in for&nbsp;the book in each imprint that “had the biggest impact or the greatest reach.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, Janzen received the&nbsp;National Medal of Honor&nbsp;from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), their highest national award, and another DAR medal for&nbsp;Women in History. The memoir was named a 2021 American Book Fest – Best Book Award Finalist for Autobiographies &amp; Memoirs and won a silver medal in the 2022 Illumination Book Awards:&nbsp;&nbsp;Biography/Memoir-Inspiration. A short documentary, Mildred’s Escape, has also won ten awards in film festivals worldwide.

World War II survivor to present program in Great Bend

The ribbon was cut for Advancing Barton County Childcare’s new Great Bend daycare facility Bright Beginnings at&nbsp;4507 Farmers Plaza Lane&nbsp;Thursday, May 2. Wednesday afternoon, May 8, Fuller Industries donated cleaning supplies to keep the center sparkling as it welcomes its first students when it opens June 3.

“This is an important new asset for our community,” said Joe Mann, Fuller vice president and general manager. “The center will provide a crucial service to families and their children. This is particularly critical as we try to grow our communities by bringing new residents here in hopes of bolstering our workforce.”

“We recognize the value of giving back,” Mann said. “Great Bend has supported Fuller for decades and we deeply appreciate that.”

Included in the donation were: Glass, bathroom, carpet and window cleaners; hand sanitizer and soap; and soap dispensers.

“We have a beautiful new daycare center, and these supplies will help us ensure it stays that way,” said&nbsp;Bright Beginnings Site Director&nbsp;Kelsie Baxter. “When we welcome children through our doors it is nice to know we can make this building as inviting as possible.”

“We are grateful for this contribution, and it just demonstrates the level of need and community support this endeavor has,” said Sara Arnberger, president of ABCC’s parent organization Great Bend Economic Development Inc.&nbsp; She and her organization spearheaded the project and raised the over $2 million to make it happen.

“Economic development is like a tapestry, made up of many essential parts." said Arnberger, "Workforce, housing, healthcare, childcare, and more all contribute to a thriving community. Bright Beginnings plays a vital role in supporting companies like Fuller by helping them attract and retain the employees they need to succeed."

Bright Beginnings has been taking enrollment and will accommodate 59 children&nbsp;to start, with a full capacity of 84. Ground was broken for the center last July.

ABCC will break ground soon on a facility in Hoisington. There are also plans for&nbsp;more centers to be built throughout Barton County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715623186849.jpeg" alt="Shown are Joe Mann, vice president and general manager of Fuller Industries in Great Bend, right, and Bright Beginnings Site Director Kelsie Baxter.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shown are Joe Mann, vice president and general manager of Fuller Industries in Great Bend, right, and Bright Beginnings Site Director Kelsie Baxter.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe ribbon was cut for Advancing Barton County Childcare’s new Great Bend daycare facility Bright Beginnings at&nbsp;4507 Farmers Plaza Lane&nbsp;Thursday, May 2. Wednesday afternoon, May 8, Fuller Industries donated cleaning supplies to keep the center sparkling as it welcomes its first students when it opens June 3.“This is an important new asset for our community,” said Joe Mann, Fuller vice president and general manager. “The center will provide a crucial service to families and their children. This is particularly critical as we try to grow our communities by bringing new residents here in hopes of bolstering our workforce.”“We recognize the value of giving back,” Mann said. “Great Bend has supported Fuller for decades and we deeply appreciate that.”Included in the donation were: Glass, bathroom, carpet and window cleaners; hand sanitizer and soap; and soap dispensers.“We have a beautiful new daycare center, and these supplies will help us ensure it stays that way,” said&nbsp;Bright Beginnings Site Director&nbsp;Kelsie Baxter. “When we welcome children through our doors it is nice to know we can make this building as inviting as possible.”“We are grateful for this contribution, and it just demonstrates the level of need and community support this endeavor has,” said Sara Arnberger, president of ABCC’s parent organization Great Bend Economic Development Inc.&nbsp; She and her organization spearheaded the project and raised the over $2 million to make it happen.“Economic development is like a tapestry, made up of many essential parts." said Arnberger, "Workforce, housing, healthcare, childcare, and more all contribute to a thriving community. Bright Beginnings plays a vital role in supporting companies like Fuller by helping them attract and retain the employees they need to succeed."Bright Beginnings has been taking enrollment and will accommodate 59 children&nbsp;to start, with a full capacity of 84. Ground was broken for the center last July.ABCC will break ground soon on a facility in Hoisington. There are also plans for&nbsp;more centers to be built throughout Barton County.

Fuller Industries donates supplies to daycare center

Free lunch, giveaways and a ninja course…May 30 is shaping
out to be a whale of a day. The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced a
grand opening for their newest features at the My Backyard Playground will
begin at 11:45 a.m. on May 30. 

Great Bend Rec Executive Director
Chris Umphres said the new equipment will resemble what is seen on the television
show, American Ninja Warrior, and there will be a 50'-long, climbing rock
wall.


"If you have driven by, the Ninja Course is there and the turf is all laid out," said Umphres. "The rock climbing wall group will come in next week and peel back the turf, put it into the concrete, bolt it down and fix the turf. We're excited for it."

The grand opening at the Activity Center on 18th Street will run
from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The first 200 people in attendance will be offered jambalaya,
and a ribbon cutting will take place at 12:30 p.m.


The Ninja Course cost $115,000, the rock wall $164,000 and the turf and
installation $192,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715696686395.jpeg" alt="The Ninja Course at the Activity Center in Great Bend has been installed. The rock climbing wall will be installed next week. A grand opening for the new playground is scheduled for May 30 from 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m." />
 <figcaption>The Ninja Course at the Activity Center in Great Bend has been installed. The rock climbing wall will be installed next week. A grand opening for the new playground is scheduled for May 30 from 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFree lunch, giveaways and a ninja course…May 30 is shaping
out to be a whale of a day. The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced a
grand opening for their newest features at the My Backyard Playground will
begin at 11:45 a.m. on May 30. Great Bend Rec Executive Director
Chris Umphres said the new equipment will resemble what is seen on the television
show, American Ninja Warrior, and there will be a 50'-long, climbing rock
wall.
"If you have driven by, the Ninja Course is there and the turf is all laid out," said Umphres. "The rock climbing wall group will come in next week and peel back the turf, put it into the concrete, bolt it down and fix the turf. We're excited for it."The grand opening at the Activity Center on 18th Street will run
from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The first 200 people in attendance will be offered jambalaya,
and a ribbon cutting will take place at 12:30 p.m.
The Ninja Course cost $115,000, the rock wall $164,000 and the turf and
installation $192,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Free lunch and grand opening for Great Bend’s ninja course

Nobody ever expects to be a victim of a natural disaster.

However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that since 1980, the United States has sustained 355 weather and climate disasters at an average expense of $57.8 billion per year.

Unfortunately, we can’t change the weather, but we can keep ourselves safe and prepare for disaster.

Kansas State University Family Resource Management Specialist, Elizabeth Kiss, shares more:

“One of the best things to do is to start or add to what’s called a ‘Grab and Go’ box,” Kiss says. “If bad weather is approaching…and you need to evacuate your house, just take the box with you and go, and you’ll have the things you need to recover from any eventual loss.”

Items that should be stored in a Grab and Go box, according to Kiss, include originals or paper copies of such items as:

· Insurance policies, particularly property insurance.

Then, consider some personal items such as photos, letters and various keepsakes, and even a small amount of money. The box should be waterproof and/or fireproof, Kiss said.

“We have become very dependent on things being online, but depending on the severity of any sort of emergency, we may be able to recover faster with paper copies,” Kiss said. “We just don’t know.”

Preparing a household inventory and building a Grab and Go box may seem daunting, but Kiss says it begins by doing just a little bit at a time.

“In terms of the household inventory, we recommend starting with one room, or even one part of a room at a time,” she said.

“Something is better than nothing. You can even videotape documents with your phone these days, or take pictures…that’s a start. You do need to have some documentation about when things were purchased and what their value was, but video or pictures is a start. Then be sure you take your documentation from your phone and store it in a way electronically that you can access it if something were to happen to your phone.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Nobody ever expects to be a victim of a natural disaster.However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that since 1980, the United States has sustained 355 weather and climate disasters at an average expense of $57.8 billion per year.Unfortunately, we can’t change the weather, but we can keep ourselves safe and prepare for disaster.Kansas State University Family Resource Management Specialist, Elizabeth Kiss, shares more:“One of the best things to do is to start or add to what’s called a ‘Grab and Go’ box,” Kiss says. “If bad weather is approaching…and you need to evacuate your house, just take the box with you and go, and you’ll have the things you need to recover from any eventual loss.”Items that should be stored in a Grab and Go box, according to Kiss, include originals or paper copies of such items as:· Birth certificates.· Social security cards.· Marriage certificates.· Passports· Driver’s license.· Credit cards.· Titles for vehicles.· Insurance policies, particularly property insurance.· Household inventoryThen, consider some personal items such as photos, letters and various keepsakes, and even a small amount of money. The box should be waterproof and/or fireproof, Kiss said.“We have become very dependent on things being online, but depending on the severity of any sort of emergency, we may be able to recover faster with paper copies,” Kiss said. “We just don’t know.”Preparing a household inventory and building a Grab and Go box may seem daunting, but Kiss says it begins by doing just a little bit at a time.“In terms of the household inventory, we recommend starting with one room, or even one part of a room at a time,” she said.“Something is better than nothing. You can even videotape documents with your phone these days, or take pictures…that’s a start. You do need to have some documentation about when things were purchased and what their value was, but video or pictures is a start. Then be sure you take your documentation from your phone and store it in a way electronically that you can access it if something were to happen to your phone.”Kiss also suggests talking with insurance agents to make sure you’re adequately covered for loss to the home and personal property; and consider storing copies of your important documents off-site – such as in the home of a trusted friend or relative.“Much of the Grab N Go Box is records that you would be keeping anyway,” Kiss said. “It’s a form of record keeping, and it’s just being proactive to have it in one place in case of an emergency.”More information on preparing important documents ahead of disaster is available in the K-State Research and Extension publication, Get Financially Prepared: Take Steps Ahead of Disaster.Information is also available online from K-State Research and Extension, and from the U.S. government website, https://www.ready.gov.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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