The&nbsp;U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)&nbsp;is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the July 22 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe winter storm, straight line winds, flooding and wildfires occurring March 14-19.

The disaster declaration covers the Kansas counties of Barton, Chautauqua, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Gray, Greeley, Hodgeman, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Pawnee, Phillips, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Stafford, Wallace and Woodson.

Under this declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. 

“One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

PNPs are also eligible to apply for&nbsp;Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs)&nbsp;to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. 

Interest rates can be as low as 3.62%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible. 

To apply online, visit&nbsp;sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email&nbsp;disastercustomerservice@sba.gov&nbsp;for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The&nbsp;U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)&nbsp;is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the July 22 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe winter storm, straight line winds, flooding and wildfires occurring March 14-19.The disaster declaration covers the Kansas counties of Barton, Chautauqua, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Gray, Greeley, Hodgeman, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Pawnee, Phillips, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Stafford, Wallace and Woodson.Under this declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”PNPs are also eligible to apply for&nbsp;Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs)&nbsp;to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. Interest rates can be as low as 3.62%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible. To apply online, visit&nbsp;sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email&nbsp;disastercustomerservice@sba.gov&nbsp;for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Relief available to KS nonprofits affected by adverse weather

This is day 3 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvest is finally in full swing across much of southern and central Kansas. Wheat streak mosaic virus continues to challenge growers in parts of the state, impacting yields and test weights. After rains and humidity have slowed harvest progress, farmers are getting back into fields but having to dodge muddy areas.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is only 20 percent complete, well behind 49 percent complete last year and behind 31 percent on average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 22, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 23 percent poor to very poor, 32 percent fair and 45 percent good to excellent.

Blake Connelly with Alliance Ag &amp; Grain in Ford County reports that harvest in the area began around June 12 and is currently about 40 percent complete. If the weather holds, he expects farmers to begin finishing up by the end of this coming weekend. Yields are up compared to last year, but protein levels are running lower, with most in the low to mid 11s. He says one of the biggest challenges they’ve seen this year has been wheat streak mosaic virus in a few locations, which is having a significant impact on yields and test weights.

Sarah Dodge with Farmers Cooperative Equity Co. in Barber County reported they took in their first load of wheat on June 10 at their Medicine Lodge location. As of Sunday, June 22, they’ve brought in about 1.1 million bushels company wide. Yield reports are ranging from around 45 to 60 bushels per acre, she said. Protein levels haven’t been as strong as in recent years and are averaging in the mid 11s across the company. Harvest is about halfway done overall, with some locations close to 70 percent after successfully managing to miss the recent rains. Dodge says the extra moisture and the timing of storms have brought down test weights, but she’s hopeful that some of the later loads will come in stronger and help boost the overall average.

Olson Farms near Gypsum in Saline County began harvest on June 12. Bryant Olson said their overall farm average is hovering near 50 bushels per acre this year, which is an improvement from last year.&nbsp;

“Overall, the wheat has been a lot better than last year,” Olson said. While not a record-setting crop, test weights have consistently come in at or above 60 pounds per bushel with protein levels around 12 percent. “This year’s crop is slightly above an average crop but definitely not a bumper crop,” he said.

Disease pressure and weather have presented challenges in this region of central Kansas.&nbsp;

“Some challenges we have faced this year were wheat streak mosaic virus, and rain has stopped our harvest progress,” Olson reported. “WSMV took over half of what the wheat could’ve potentially made. We haven’t seen any in the area in a while,” he said. Saline and Dickinson counties have been hot spots for the disease this year.&nbsp;

Despite those issues, some varieties have shown promise this harvest.&nbsp;

“Some specific varieties we are very happy with are KS Mako and KS Providence,” Olson said. “KS Mako took the wheat streak very well.”

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0019apQV4OXfqbM8qQuGUN0Fik6-IlqlKMjd2i24dngA8jlOs6RkAVUix9uZe-EJ5PLMcfaJ36AdPQbpS1Ess8vxZNe3Bm58vj7kkHkdG6aVgXZkrhYV7r55k0MaKJXKiRxhJtD0NVKyVfd8TiUUrFXXTC3UKK-1U_ZQoGfSSHoikSfJgCj3mR-NF8KrKOrKfIuPfGw9_ZFBVmaXB9E3x7aMizFKxLmO1dP&amp;c=COkfRRcus6GiQ7bM1sbEfu2CaTBBIgBjs1JWG0a6sBz3ilDdjL5HRQ==&amp;ch=GrQv6ashu1GaCoLYoYI4MDb6PT-iK2drld497jabNEk7giQGM8SMkg==">#wheatharvest25</a>. Tag us at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Hannah Blodgett for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750729212486.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 3 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Harvest is finally in full swing across much of southern and central Kansas. Wheat streak mosaic virus continues to challenge growers in parts of the state, impacting yields and test weights. After rains and humidity have slowed harvest progress, farmers are getting back into fields but having to dodge muddy areas.Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is only 20 percent complete, well behind 49 percent complete last year and behind 31 percent on average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 22, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 23 percent poor to very poor, 32 percent fair and 45 percent good to excellent.Blake Connelly with Alliance Ag &amp; Grain in Ford County reports that harvest in the area began around June 12 and is currently about 40 percent complete. If the weather holds, he expects farmers to begin finishing up by the end of this coming weekend. Yields are up compared to last year, but protein levels are running lower, with most in the low to mid 11s. He says one of the biggest challenges they’ve seen this year has been wheat streak mosaic virus in a few locations, which is having a significant impact on yields and test weights.Sarah Dodge with Farmers Cooperative Equity Co. in Barber County reported they took in their first load of wheat on June 10 at their Medicine Lodge location. As of Sunday, June 22, they’ve brought in about 1.1 million bushels company wide. Yield reports are ranging from around 45 to 60 bushels per acre, she said. Protein levels haven’t been as strong as in recent years and are averaging in the mid 11s across the company. Harvest is about halfway done overall, with some locations close to 70 percent after successfully managing to miss the recent rains. Dodge says the extra moisture and the timing of storms have brought down test weights, but she’s hopeful that some of the later loads will come in stronger and help boost the overall average.Olson Farms near Gypsum in Saline County began harvest on June 12. Bryant Olson said their overall farm average is hovering near 50 bushels per acre this year, which is an improvement from last year.&nbsp;“Overall, the wheat has been a lot better than last year,” Olson said. While not a record-setting crop, test weights have consistently come in at or above 60 pounds per bushel with protein levels around 12 percent. “This year’s crop is slightly above an average crop but definitely not a bumper crop,” he said.Disease pressure and weather have presented challenges in this region of central Kansas.&nbsp;“Some challenges we have faced this year were wheat streak mosaic virus, and rain has stopped our harvest progress,” Olson reported. “WSMV took over half of what the wheat could’ve potentially made. We haven’t seen any in the area in a while,” he said. Saline and Dickinson counties have been hot spots for the disease this year.&nbsp;Despite those issues, some varieties have shown promise this harvest.&nbsp;“Some specific varieties we are very happy with are KS Mako and KS Providence,” Olson said. “KS Mako took the wheat streak very well.”The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0019apQV4OXfqbM8qQuGUN0Fik6-IlqlKMjd2i24dngA8jlOs6RkAVUix9uZe-EJ5PLMcfaJ36AdPQbpS1Ess8vxZNe3Bm58vj7kkHkdG6aVgXZkrhYV7r55k0MaKJXKiRxhJtD0NVKyVfd8TiUUrFXXTC3UKK-1U_ZQoGfSSHoikSfJgCj3mR-NF8KrKOrKfIuPfGw9_ZFBVmaXB9E3x7aMizFKxLmO1dP&amp;c=COkfRRcus6GiQ7bM1sbEfu2CaTBBIgBjs1JWG0a6sBz3ilDdjL5HRQ==&amp;ch=GrQv6ashu1GaCoLYoYI4MDb6PT-iK2drld497jabNEk7giQGM8SMkg==">#wheatharvest25</a>. Tag us at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.Written by Hannah Blodgett for Kansas Wheat

Day 3, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

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

Sign up today at Farley Machine Works, 112 S. Patton Rd, Great Bend. You can register from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750280022900.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>You have an opportunity today to become the final instant finalist in the Reef Blue Summer Giveaway. It's presented by Ehler Chevrolet, INA Alert, Equity Bank and Kelly's Garden Sense.Sign up today at Farley Machine Works, 112 S. Patton Rd, Great Bend. You can register from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/faa73a97-4e3c-405e-b18d-9148ea926a10">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Reef Blue Summer - Sign up today at Farley Machine Works

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Wendy Prosser is signed up for another four years as the Barton County
Appraiser. Tuesday morning at the Barton County Commission meeting, County
Counselor Patrick Hoffman said per Kansas statute, an appraiser must be
appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1997.


"For bookkeeping and to follow the state law, we need to have an official reappointment of our county appraiser," said Hoffman. "As part of that, we have an employment agreement, or contract, for that position. It is a little special with the fact that is has to follow both state law in terms of how they do appraisals but also follow county procedures in terms of how they conduct the office."

Prosser was first appointed as County Appraiser in December 2020. Prosser took
over for Barb Esfeld after Esfeld resigned to accept a position on the
Commission.


"We are a fortunate county," said Esfeld. "I know all counties aren't so fortunate and don't have appraisers right now. Thank you Wendy for doing a good job. She works with all of the taxpayers well and does a tough job."

Prosser was first hired in 2008 with Barton County and became the Deputy
Appraiser in 2014.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719495429741.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWendy Prosser is signed up for another four years as the Barton County
Appraiser. Tuesday morning at the Barton County Commission meeting, County
Counselor Patrick Hoffman said per Kansas statute, an appraiser must be
appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1997.
"For bookkeeping and to follow the state law, we need to have an official reappointment of our county appraiser," said Hoffman. "As part of that, we have an employment agreement, or contract, for that position. It is a little special with the fact that is has to follow both state law in terms of how they do appraisals but also follow county procedures in terms of how they conduct the office."Prosser was first appointed as County Appraiser in December 2020. Prosser took
over for Barb Esfeld after Esfeld resigned to accept a position on the
Commission.
"We are a fortunate county," said Esfeld. "I know all counties aren't so fortunate and don't have appraisers right now. Thank you Wendy for doing a good job. She works with all of the taxpayers well and does a tough job."Prosser was first hired in 2008 with Barton County and became the Deputy
Appraiser in 2014.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Co. updates agreement with Appraiser Wendy Prosser

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/23)

At 6:50 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 151 S. US
281 Highway.

At 8:11 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 5539 2nd
Street.

At 3:45 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 80
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.

At 5:47 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/23)

At 12:06 a.m. a vehicle parked close to the alley and wanted
it moved was reported at 3003 16th Street.

At 10:16 a.m. a stalking case was reported at 819 Maple.

At 10:20 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar
Park Pl.

At 10:56 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 1200 Polk.

At 2:54 p.m. a domestic battery was reported at 1512 Park
Avenue. Christopher Madrid was arrested and booked in lieu of bond.

At 3:04 p.m. being bitten by her cat was reported at 717
Coolidge.

At 5:28 p.m. the K-9 was used on a BTSO traffic stop in the
10 block of SE 10 Road.

At 5:47 p.m. a vehicle driving fast on the highway was reported
at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.

At 5:55 p.m. theft of a cat was reported at 1212 Baker.

At 6:32 p.m. a vehicle parked in the alley was reported at
3009 16th Street.

At 6:40 p.m. a dog on the roof of a house was reported at 27th
Street &amp; Jackson Street.

At 7:22 p.m. a fight was reported at 3209 10th
Street.

At 10:13 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 4200 10th
Street.

At 10:18 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5936
Eisenhower Ct.

At 10:32 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5926
Eisenhower.

At 10:45 p.m. a horse out was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/23)Animal Complaint At 6:50 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 151 S. US
281 Highway.Criminal DamageAt 8:11 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 5539 2nd
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3:45 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 80
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.At 5:47 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/23)Parking ComplaintAt 12:06 a.m. a vehicle parked close to the alley and wanted
it moved was reported at 3003 16th Street.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 10:16 a.m. a stalking case was reported at 819 Maple.Breathing Problems At 10:20 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar
Park Pl.Criminal DamageAt 10:56 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 1200 Polk.DomesticAt 2:54 p.m. a domestic battery was reported at 1512 Park
Avenue. Christopher Madrid was arrested and booked in lieu of bond.Animal Complaint At 3:04 p.m. being bitten by her cat was reported at 717
Coolidge.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 5:28 p.m. the K-9 was used on a BTSO traffic stop in the
10 block of SE 10 Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:47 p.m. a vehicle driving fast on the highway was reported
at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.TheftAt 5:55 p.m. theft of a cat was reported at 1212 Baker.Parking ComplaintAt 6:32 p.m. a vehicle parked in the alley was reported at
3009 16th Street.Animal ComplaintAt 6:40 p.m. a dog on the roof of a house was reported at 27th
Street &amp; Jackson Street.FightAt 7:22 p.m. a fight was reported at 3209 10th
Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:13 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 4200 10th
Street.Abdominal Pain / ProblemsAt 10:18 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5936
Eisenhower Ct.Hemorrhage / LacerationsAt 10:32 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5926
Eisenhower.Animal ComplaintAt 10:45 p.m. a horse out was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley.

Cop Shop (6/23)

BOOKED: Richard Hines on Great Bend Municipal warrant for
failure to appear with a bond of $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Blake J. Garman on a Barton County Distirct Court
warrant for failure to appear with a bond of $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christopher G. Madrid on Great Bend Municipal Court
case for domestic battery, bond is set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Peter Zamarripa on a Barton County District Court
for failure to appear with a bond of $2,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Leatrice A. Christie on a hold for other agency.

RELEASED: Adam Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for a serve sentence. Time served.

RELEASED: Richard Hines on GBMC warrant for failure to
appear, posted surety bond of $500 through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Christopher G. Madrid on GBMC case for domestic
battery, bonded by posting a $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Richard Hines on Great Bend Municipal warrant for
failure to appear with a bond of $500 C/S.BOOKED: Blake J. Garman on a Barton County Distirct Court
warrant for failure to appear with a bond of $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher G. Madrid on Great Bend Municipal Court
case for domestic battery, bond is set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Peter Zamarripa on a Barton County District Court
for failure to appear with a bond of $2,000 C/S.BOOKED: Leatrice A. Christie on a hold for other agency.RELEASED: Adam Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for a serve sentence. Time served.RELEASED: Richard Hines on GBMC warrant for failure to
appear, posted surety bond of $500 through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Christopher G. Madrid on GBMC case for domestic
battery, bonded by posting a $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/23)

News from the Oil Patch, June 23 John P. Tretbar

The government says your electric bill will go up slightly compared to last summer. The Energy Information Administration forecasts an average monthly bill, nationwide, of $178, compared to $173 a month last summer. The report suggests that consumption will go down this summer, driven by cooler weather. But EIA says that will only partially offset rising residential electric rates expected in most areas of the US.

July crude expired Friday a few pennies below $75 a barrel. The August NYMEX contract was below $74 at the close of trading Friday. Crude prices were not spiking as many expected Monday. NYMEX crude was a few cents higher, still trading a few cents below $74 a barrel by lunchtime Monday. London Brent was over $77 by midday Monday.US Rig Counts drop for the eighth week in a row. Baker Hughes reports 554 active rigs across the country. The total in Texas is down four rigs, Oklahoma is down two and North Dakota is down one. New Mexico and Wyoming each gained two rigs. Colorado and Louisiana each added one rig.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down one rig or eight percent from a week ago, down 45% from a month ago, and down 61% from a year ago. There are two active drilling rigs in the eastern half of the state, and nine in Western Kansas, which is down one rig from a week ago.

The state okayed nine new drilling locations in Kansas. Five of them are east of Wichita, and four are in Western Kansas. Drilling permits this year trail last year by 133 permits.

The 563 well-completions reported this year trail last year by just six wells. Out of 17 new completions last week in Kansas, seven are west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County and another in Haskell County.US crude stockpiles dropped by the biggest amount in nearly a year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports commercial inventories of just under 421 million barrels, down nearly 12 million barrels from a week earlier. The last inventory decline this large was in the week through June 28, 2024.The Strategic Petroleum Reserve took delivery on 200,000 barrels last week, or 31.4 million barrels in the last year. The total is now over 402 million barrels.

Crude production in the United States was nearly unchanged, dropping by eight barrels per day in Alaska, but increasing eleven barrels a day in the rest of the country, for a net increase of three barrels a day compared to a week earlier. Total output now averages 13,431,000 barrels a day. &nbsp;The Administration will green-light energy development in The National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a patch roughly the size of Indiana that's believed to contain 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil. The government is repealing Biden-era curbs blocking oil drilling across most of the 23-million acre reserve. The state estimates output from the reserve will climb to nearly 140,000 barrels per day by the year 2033, compared to just 16,000 barrels per day now. ConocoPhillips is developing its 600-million-barrel Willow project in the NPR-A, which is expected to produce its first oil in three years.

Total energy production in the US last year outpaced the record set the year before, with total energy production over 103 quadrillion British thermal units...that's up about one percent from 2023. The Energy Information Administration says several individual energy sources set records as well, including crude oil, natural gas, natural gas plant liquids, biofuels, solar and wind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, June 23 John P. TretbarThe government says your electric bill will go up slightly compared to last summer. The Energy Information Administration forecasts an average monthly bill, nationwide, of $178, compared to $173 a month last summer. The report suggests that consumption will go down this summer, driven by cooler weather. But EIA says that will only partially offset rising residential electric rates expected in most areas of the US.July crude expired Friday a few pennies below $75 a barrel. The August NYMEX contract was below $74 at the close of trading Friday. Crude prices were not spiking as many expected Monday. NYMEX crude was a few cents higher, still trading a few cents below $74 a barrel by lunchtime Monday. London Brent was over $77 by midday Monday.US Rig Counts drop for the eighth week in a row. Baker Hughes reports 554 active rigs across the country. The total in Texas is down four rigs, Oklahoma is down two and North Dakota is down one. New Mexico and Wyoming each gained two rigs. Colorado and Louisiana each added one rig.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down one rig or eight percent from a week ago, down 45% from a month ago, and down 61% from a year ago. There are two active drilling rigs in the eastern half of the state, and nine in Western Kansas, which is down one rig from a week ago.The state okayed nine new drilling locations in Kansas. Five of them are east of Wichita, and four are in Western Kansas. Drilling permits this year trail last year by 133 permits.The 563 well-completions reported this year trail last year by just six wells. Out of 17 new completions last week in Kansas, seven are west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County and another in Haskell County.US crude stockpiles dropped by the biggest amount in nearly a year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports commercial inventories of just under 421 million barrels, down nearly 12 million barrels from a week earlier. The last inventory decline this large was in the week through June 28, 2024.The Strategic Petroleum Reserve took delivery on 200,000 barrels last week, or 31.4 million barrels in the last year. The total is now over 402 million barrels.Crude production in the United States was nearly unchanged, dropping by eight barrels per day in Alaska, but increasing eleven barrels a day in the rest of the country, for a net increase of three barrels a day compared to a week earlier. Total output now averages 13,431,000 barrels a day. &nbsp;The Administration will green-light energy development in The National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a patch roughly the size of Indiana that's believed to contain 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil. The government is repealing Biden-era curbs blocking oil drilling across most of the 23-million acre reserve. The state estimates output from the reserve will climb to nearly 140,000 barrels per day by the year 2033, compared to just 16,000 barrels per day now. ConocoPhillips is developing its 600-million-barrel Willow project in the NPR-A, which is expected to produce its first oil in three years.Total energy production in the US last year outpaced the record set the year before, with total energy production over 103 quadrillion British thermal units...that's up about one percent from 2023. The Energy Information Administration says several individual energy sources set records as well, including crude oil, natural gas, natural gas plant liquids, biofuels, solar and wind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Prices steady despite tensions

It probably won’t happen this year or next but when 2027 rolls around, some Juvenile Services (JS) programs will be at risk – or even axed, said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director.

This all started in 2016 when the Kansas Legislature passed a bill aimed at reducing out-of-home placements for juveniles at a reported savings of $44 million.

“This money was supposed to be kept in a lockbox but the amount has dwindled over the years,” Woodmansee said. “We need to put the money back to keep our programs going. All we know is that, from year to year, varying amounts are going into the state general fund.”

Programs involved include Parent Project, Day School, Community Service, Intake and Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation and Case Management.

“We have used our allocations for these programs according to statute, with the blessing of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC),” Woodmansee noted.

In 2013, JS went under the KDOC umbrella; it has been flat-funded for nine years. During this time span, there have been many programming changes that enhance support for juveniles and empower their parents.

“When KDOC is mentioned, people immediately think of prison, not community based-programs,” Woodmansee said. “I need to do a better job of raising awareness about our community-based efforts and the need for the responsible allocation of state dollars.”

The natural result of program cuts would be fewer staff members to guide youth and families, Woodmansee said, noting this would be a disservice to the entire five-county 20th Judicial District.

“Our community case managers go above and beyond every day, providing a lot of one-on-one guidance to young people in the JS system,” Woodmansee commented. “Most case managers have longevity and the knowledge that comes with it.

“All of us are properly trained to work with kids and parents. But if programming is cut, there will be higher caseloads and less individual attention.”

This is one reason that the possible budget cuts are having an effect today. “Our staff members are wondering if they will have jobs in two years,” Woodmansee explained. “And it’s a real shame because they like their jobs and do them well.”

If juveniles and their parents don’t have access to JS programs, all local residents could suffer the consequences in terms of less community safety.

“Young people are in the JS system because they have been accused of misdemeanors and/or felonies,” Woodmansee said. “We supervise them at county expense.

“If that supervision is decreased or cut, we cannot reach our goal of catching problems early and preventing escalation through the justice system. When this happens, no one wins – not the juvenile, not the family and not the community as a whole.

“My goal now is to make sure I am doing a better job of explaining the important work being done in our district.”

20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683035444683.jpeg" alt="Director Marissa Woodmansee oversees the 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services." />
 <figcaption>Director Marissa Woodmansee oversees the 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services.</figcaption>
 </figure>It probably won’t happen this year or next but when 2027 rolls around, some Juvenile Services (JS) programs will be at risk – or even axed, said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director.This all started in 2016 when the Kansas Legislature passed a bill aimed at reducing out-of-home placements for juveniles at a reported savings of $44 million.“This money was supposed to be kept in a lockbox but the amount has dwindled over the years,” Woodmansee said. “We need to put the money back to keep our programs going. All we know is that, from year to year, varying amounts are going into the state general fund.”Programs involved include Parent Project, Day School, Community Service, Intake and Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation and Case Management.“We have used our allocations for these programs according to statute, with the blessing of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC),” Woodmansee noted.In 2013, JS went under the KDOC umbrella; it has been flat-funded for nine years. During this time span, there have been many programming changes that enhance support for juveniles and empower their parents.“When KDOC is mentioned, people immediately think of prison, not community based-programs,” Woodmansee said. “I need to do a better job of raising awareness about our community-based efforts and the need for the responsible allocation of state dollars.”The natural result of program cuts would be fewer staff members to guide youth and families, Woodmansee said, noting this would be a disservice to the entire five-county 20th Judicial District.“Our community case managers go above and beyond every day, providing a lot of one-on-one guidance to young people in the JS system,” Woodmansee commented. “Most case managers have longevity and the knowledge that comes with it.“All of us are properly trained to work with kids and parents. But if programming is cut, there will be higher caseloads and less individual attention.”This is one reason that the possible budget cuts are having an effect today. “Our staff members are wondering if they will have jobs in two years,” Woodmansee explained. “And it’s a real shame because they like their jobs and do them well.”Community safetyIf juveniles and their parents don’t have access to JS programs, all local residents could suffer the consequences in terms of less community safety.“Young people are in the JS system because they have been accused of misdemeanors and/or felonies,” Woodmansee said. “We supervise them at county expense.“If that supervision is decreased or cut, we cannot reach our goal of catching problems early and preventing escalation through the justice system. When this happens, no one wins – not the juvenile, not the family and not the community as a whole.“My goal now is to make sure I am doing a better job of explaining the important work being done in our district.”20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

Juvenile Services director warns of possible programming cuts

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ZDcx0m. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting June 24, 2025 9 a.m. Until Close Barton County Courthouse – 1400 Main, Suite106, Great Bend

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the June 17, 2025, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. RESOLUTION 2025-10: Appointment of Wendy Prosser as County Appraiser: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, per Kansas statute, an Appraiser must be appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1997. Wendy Prosser, currently serving as County Appraiser, was first appointed to a term beginning December 1, 2020. At this time, the Commission will consider the appointment of Ms. Prosser as the Barton County Appraiser. After being tabled at the June 10, 2025, meeting, the Kansas Department of Revenue, Property Valuation Division, training issues have been resolved.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY APPRAISER: Updated Employment Agreement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Hoffman will provide details. With the adoption of a Resolution appointing Ms. Prosser as Appraiser, it is appropriate to consider an employment agreement covering that same term. This item was also tabled on June 10, 2025.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. MEMORIAL PARKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Board Appointments: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Schartz, County Works Director, will present details. Persons on the Memorial Parks Advisory Committee advise and assist the Commission with the care and management of the Golden Belt and Hillcrest Memorial Parks. Public announcements were made via the newspaper and social media of open positions on the Committee. There are two full terms and one unexpired term open at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. SOLID WASTE: Diesel Fuel Bids: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. The Landfill accepted quotes to purchase 25,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The quote requested a price per gallon, with the fuel price extending through June 30, 2026, or the 25,000 gallon mark is exceeded.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: RFP – CKCC Heating and Air Conditioning: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. On May 18, 2025, the Facilities Management Department opened a Request for Proposal for a Heating and Air Mini-Split to be installed within a multi-use office space at 1806 – 12th, Great Bend, Kansas. Monies are available in the Central Kansas Community Corrections budget for this building improvement.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Vehicle Purchase: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will present details. In late May, 2025, CKCC released an RFP to purchase a new, used or program mid-size or SUV vehicle. With no submissions, Mr. Patzner authorized the department to search locally for a vehicle. Only one vehicle met the criteria within the Kansas Department of Corrections budget parameters as well as the RFP requirements of a 2018 vehicle or newer with less than 50,000 miles.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Tricia Schlessiger will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Maintenance, Support and SUA for Radio Repeaters – Dena Popp, 911 Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

2026 Budget Meetings &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. RSVP &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. Soil Conservation &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. Fire Districts &nbsp; &nbsp;1:15 p.m. SDSI &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. Fair Board &nbsp; &nbsp;1:45 p.m. 911 / Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;2:00 p.m. Solid Waste &nbsp; &nbsp;2:15 p.m. Humane Society &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. Sheriff &nbsp; &nbsp;4:00 p.m. – Continuing business discussion as needed.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services Department are scheduled for June 26, 2025.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720201812175.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ZDcx0m. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting June 24, 2025 9 a.m. Until Close Barton County Courthouse – 1400 Main, Suite106, Great BendI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the June 17, 2025, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. RESOLUTION 2025-10: Appointment of Wendy Prosser as County Appraiser: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, per Kansas statute, an Appraiser must be appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1997. Wendy Prosser, currently serving as County Appraiser, was first appointed to a term beginning December 1, 2020. At this time, the Commission will consider the appointment of Ms. Prosser as the Barton County Appraiser. After being tabled at the June 10, 2025, meeting, the Kansas Department of Revenue, Property Valuation Division, training issues have been resolved.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY APPRAISER: Updated Employment Agreement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Hoffman will provide details. With the adoption of a Resolution appointing Ms. Prosser as Appraiser, it is appropriate to consider an employment agreement covering that same term. This item was also tabled on June 10, 2025.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. MEMORIAL PARKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Board Appointments: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Schartz, County Works Director, will present details. Persons on the Memorial Parks Advisory Committee advise and assist the Commission with the care and management of the Golden Belt and Hillcrest Memorial Parks. Public announcements were made via the newspaper and social media of open positions on the Committee. There are two full terms and one unexpired term open at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. SOLID WASTE: Diesel Fuel Bids: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. The Landfill accepted quotes to purchase 25,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The quote requested a price per gallon, with the fuel price extending through June 30, 2026, or the 25,000 gallon mark is exceeded.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: RFP – CKCC Heating and Air Conditioning: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. On May 18, 2025, the Facilities Management Department opened a Request for Proposal for a Heating and Air Mini-Split to be installed within a multi-use office space at 1806 – 12th, Great Bend, Kansas. Monies are available in the Central Kansas Community Corrections budget for this building improvement.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Vehicle Purchase: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will present details. In late May, 2025, CKCC released an RFP to purchase a new, used or program mid-size or SUV vehicle. With no submissions, Mr. Patzner authorized the department to search locally for a vehicle. Only one vehicle met the criteria within the Kansas Department of Corrections budget parameters as well as the RFP requirements of a 2018 vehicle or newer with less than 50,000 miles.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Tricia Schlessiger will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Maintenance, Support and SUA for Radio Repeaters – Dena Popp, 911 Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.2026 Budget Meetings &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. RSVP &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. Soil Conservation &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. Fire Districts &nbsp; &nbsp;1:15 p.m. SDSI &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. Fair Board &nbsp; &nbsp;1:45 p.m. 911 / Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;2:00 p.m. Solid Waste &nbsp; &nbsp;2:15 p.m. Humane Society &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. Sheriff &nbsp; &nbsp;4:00 p.m. – Continuing business discussion as needed.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services Department are scheduled for June 26, 2025.V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 1, 2025.VI. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (6/24)

Tuesday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10am, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. South southeast wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.

Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 95.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.

Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

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

Tuesday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10am, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. South southeast wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 95.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

Hear an episode of the Pages in Time show with Barton County Historical Society Board member Justin Engleman and Part II with Sr. Rene Weeks discussing the Dominican Sisters of Peace in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Pages in Time program airs every Monday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM with either new or encore episodes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722358431610.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear an episode of the Pages in Time show with Barton County Historical Society Board member Justin Engleman and Part II with Sr. Rene Weeks discussing the Dominican Sisters of Peace in Great Bend.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Pages in Time show - Dominican Sisters of Peace (Part II)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=rc3su-18e5839-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Pages in Time program airs every Monday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM with either new or encore episodes.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Pages in Time - Dominican Sisters of Peace (Part II)

Governor Laura Kelly sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) asking for a major presidential disaster declaration due to damages caused by a series of severe thunderstorms accompanied by straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding during the period of May 18-19, 2025. Multiple counties sustained damage to utility infrastructure, roads, and government-owned buildings.

“Small towns like Plevna and Grinnell are the heartbeat of our state, and I am committed to providing and ensuring these communities, and the region, have the resources they need to rebuild and thrive,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Since day one of the recovery process, my administration has coordinated the deployment of technical, logistical, health, and environmental resources, in addition to advocating for recovery needs to relevant federal agencies like FEMA and the SBA.”

Governor Kelly made the request to seek federal assistance through the Public Assistance Program. The program provides funds on a cost-share basis to repair damaged public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges.

In the month since the severe weather, the Kelly administration has been a proactive partner in the response and recovery efforts of the impacted communities. These efforts have thus far resulted in Governor Kelly visiting Grinnell on May 22; Governor Kelly requesting U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans be made available on May 28 which were subsequently made available on May 31; formally issuing a state of disaster emergency proclamation on June 4; initiating a joint Public Assistance Program Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) conducted by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on June 5; and on June 17, formally requesting a major presidential disaster declaration.

During the night of May 18-19, 2025, severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding affected the counties of Bourbon, Cheyenne, Edwards, Gove, Kiowa, Logan, Pratt, Reno, Scott, Sheridan, and Stafford.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) began their response in coordination with local officials on May 18, and continues to be an active partner to the impacted communities. KDEM is facilitating damage assessments, human service needs coordination with volunteer organizations, technical recovery assistance, and coordination with federal partners like SBA and FEMA.

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) quickly mobilized the night of the tornadoes to close Interstate 70 (I-70) to clear debris and downed powerlines. After removing debris, KDOT organized traffic control for I-70 lane reductions to facilitate the installation of new power lines until May 21. &nbsp;

The Kansas Highway Patrol provided augmentation to local law enforcement, traffic control, and aerial reconnaissance of the damage path from tornadoes.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) on May 20, issued a Disposal Without a Permit (DWOP) to Grinnell for on-site burial of disaster debris; and in Plevna, KDHE issued a fee waiver to the Reno County landfill, waiving the $1 per ton state tipping fee for disaster related debris. On May 21, KDHE suspended fee assessments to obtain certified copies of birth and marriage certificates for impacted Gove County residents until July 18, 2025; and fulfilled a Gove County request for tetanus vaccines to be distributed through Gove County Emergency Management and KDEM. KDHE also provided staff to the multi-agency resource center created on May 22 to connect impacted residents with resources.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) participated in the multi-agency resource center to assist residents in signing up for assistance programs administered by DCF.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Farticle%2F2025%2F05%2F31%2Fsba-offers-disaster-assistance-kansas-small-businesses-private-nonprofits-residents-affected-may%23:~:text=%25E2%2580%2593%2520The%2520U.S.%2520Small%2520Business%2520Administration,and%2520tornado%2520occurring%2520May%252018./1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/naAZOHhbRjHO7XhD-O6-bUxPrvt-mYJZUieaIE1dsSY=410">on May 31</a>, after receiving a request from Governor Kelly on May 28, a disaster declaration for Gove, Graham, Lane, Logan, Ness, Scott, Sheridan, Thomas, &nbsp;and Trego counties, which makes available low interest federal disaster loans to Kansas small businesses, private nonprofits, and residents to offset physical and economic losses from the May 18 storm and tornado. On&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Farticle%2F2025%2F06%2F06%2Fsba-relief-still-available-kansas-small-businesses-private-nonprofits-affected-adverse-weather/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/baF_p9AKI7QB7q6W4jrTvHvdyD-BrqHWKFmzmMZE1Bo=410">June 6</a>, SBA announced that Harvey County was eligible for SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which provides working capital to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster.

Governor Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency proclamation on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2F388%2FKansas-Disaster-Declarations/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/MUJm5dFqNN7UeFHjOb659P4guVOkXtvulT3-oGqhyEM=410">June 4</a>&nbsp;for Bourbon, Cheyenne, Edwards, Gove, Kiowa, Logan, Pratt, Reno, Scott, Sheridan, and Stafford counties, activating the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2F598%2FRecovery/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/Y-4GkkoPaOBelq89hoUX3PKESEpA34Eaf48mwGD7I3U=410">disaster response and recovery portions</a>&nbsp;of the Kansas Response Plan. The Kansas Response Plan outlines the process by which disasters are responded to, mitigated, and recovered from; a process which recognizes that disaster recovery efforts are led at the local level.

On&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2FCivicAlerts.aspx%3FAID=770/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/SGwA5rwoLX41cVhIwsm-izGGo9MPGZ_sYQKztOuoaoA=410">June 5</a>, Kansas initiated the joint Public Assistance Program Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA), conducted by FEMA Region VII and KDEM. PDA teams assess damages to public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and utilities, to determine if those counties meet federal damage thresholds to qualify for federal disaster assistance. The PDA is the next step in determining if damage reaches the threshold needed for a state to formally request a Presidential disaster declaration.

On June 17, Governor Kelly sent a letter to FEMA asking for a major presidential disaster declaration.

Governor Laura Kelly sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) asking for a major presidential disaster declaration due to damages caused by a series of severe thunderstorms accompanied by straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding during the period of May 18-19, 2025. Multiple counties sustained damage to utility infrastructure, roads, and government-owned buildings.“Small towns like Plevna and Grinnell are the heartbeat of our state, and I am committed to providing and ensuring these communities, and the region, have the resources they need to rebuild and thrive,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Since day one of the recovery process, my administration has coordinated the deployment of technical, logistical, health, and environmental resources, in addition to advocating for recovery needs to relevant federal agencies like FEMA and the SBA.”Governor Kelly made the request to seek federal assistance through the Public Assistance Program. The program provides funds on a cost-share basis to repair damaged public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges.In the month since the severe weather, the Kelly administration has been a proactive partner in the response and recovery efforts of the impacted communities. These efforts have thus far resulted in Governor Kelly visiting Grinnell on May 22; Governor Kelly requesting U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans be made available on May 28 which were subsequently made available on May 31; formally issuing a state of disaster emergency proclamation on June 4; initiating a joint Public Assistance Program Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) conducted by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on June 5; and on June 17, formally requesting a major presidential disaster declaration.During the night of May 18-19, 2025, severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding affected the counties of Bourbon, Cheyenne, Edwards, Gove, Kiowa, Logan, Pratt, Reno, Scott, Sheridan, and Stafford.The Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) began their response in coordination with local officials on May 18, and continues to be an active partner to the impacted communities. KDEM is facilitating damage assessments, human service needs coordination with volunteer organizations, technical recovery assistance, and coordination with federal partners like SBA and FEMA.The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) quickly mobilized the night of the tornadoes to close Interstate 70 (I-70) to clear debris and downed powerlines. After removing debris, KDOT organized traffic control for I-70 lane reductions to facilitate the installation of new power lines until May 21. &nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol provided augmentation to local law enforcement, traffic control, and aerial reconnaissance of the damage path from tornadoes.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) on May 20, issued a Disposal Without a Permit (DWOP) to Grinnell for on-site burial of disaster debris; and in Plevna, KDHE issued a fee waiver to the Reno County landfill, waiving the $1 per ton state tipping fee for disaster related debris. On May 21, KDHE suspended fee assessments to obtain certified copies of birth and marriage certificates for impacted Gove County residents until July 18, 2025; and fulfilled a Gove County request for tetanus vaccines to be distributed through Gove County Emergency Management and KDEM. KDHE also provided staff to the multi-agency resource center created on May 22 to connect impacted residents with resources.The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) participated in the multi-agency resource center to assist residents in signing up for assistance programs administered by DCF.The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Farticle%2F2025%2F05%2F31%2Fsba-offers-disaster-assistance-kansas-small-businesses-private-nonprofits-residents-affected-may%23:~:text=%25E2%2580%2593%2520The%2520U.S.%2520Small%2520Business%2520Administration,and%2520tornado%2520occurring%2520May%252018./1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/naAZOHhbRjHO7XhD-O6-bUxPrvt-mYJZUieaIE1dsSY=410">on May 31</a>, after receiving a request from Governor Kelly on May 28, a disaster declaration for Gove, Graham, Lane, Logan, Ness, Scott, Sheridan, Thomas, &nbsp;and Trego counties, which makes available low interest federal disaster loans to Kansas small businesses, private nonprofits, and residents to offset physical and economic losses from the May 18 storm and tornado. On&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Farticle%2F2025%2F06%2F06%2Fsba-relief-still-available-kansas-small-businesses-private-nonprofits-affected-adverse-weather/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/baF_p9AKI7QB7q6W4jrTvHvdyD-BrqHWKFmzmMZE1Bo=410">June 6</a>, SBA announced that Harvey County was eligible for SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which provides working capital to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster.Governor Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency proclamation on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2F388%2FKansas-Disaster-Declarations/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/MUJm5dFqNN7UeFHjOb659P4guVOkXtvulT3-oGqhyEM=410">June 4</a>&nbsp;for Bourbon, Cheyenne, Edwards, Gove, Kiowa, Logan, Pratt, Reno, Scott, Sheridan, and Stafford counties, activating the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2F598%2FRecovery/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/Y-4GkkoPaOBelq89hoUX3PKESEpA34Eaf48mwGD7I3U=410">disaster response and recovery portions</a>&nbsp;of the Kansas Response Plan. The Kansas Response Plan outlines the process by which disasters are responded to, mitigated, and recovered from; a process which recognizes that disaster recovery efforts are led at the local level.On&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansastag.gov%2FCivicAlerts.aspx%3FAID=770/1/0101019785117e81-2d754bbb-22fc-4188-b2b5-cfab9e2a5774-000000/SGwA5rwoLX41cVhIwsm-izGGo9MPGZ_sYQKztOuoaoA=410">June 5</a>, Kansas initiated the joint Public Assistance Program Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA), conducted by FEMA Region VII and KDEM. PDA teams assess damages to public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and utilities, to determine if those counties meet federal damage thresholds to qualify for federal disaster assistance. The PDA is the next step in determining if damage reaches the threshold needed for a state to formally request a Presidential disaster declaration.On June 17, Governor Kelly sent a letter to FEMA asking for a major presidential disaster declaration.

Request sent for federal assistance for storm impact in Stafford Co.

The theme of the 2025 Barton County Fair is Barnyard Mardi Gras and we have already started the fun with a couple of pre-fair events!

Saturday kicked off our Fashion Revue, Sewing &amp; Textiles, and Fiber Arts judging. These are lifetime skills that go well beyond sewing a straight seam. Learning to coordinate clothing that fits well, complements your body and style, is appropriate for a specific environment, and works within your budget are skills that many of us continue to use. Hobbies such as crochet, knitting, macramé, or needle arts provide creative outlets and beautiful handmade gifts for others. I learned to crochet from my grandmother as a child and had several crochet projects exhibit at the Kansas State Fair as my skills improved. It is still an activity that I enjoy and I love carrying on my Grandmother’s tradition of gifting baby blankets to friends and family.

Our 4-H Dog Show occurred on Sunday afternoon! Our six competitors have worked hard to build a team with their dog. We’ll have a poster at the fair with photos and results so be sure to check it out.

Wednesday will begin early with exhibit check in and our 4-H Foods judging starts at 8:30. Four judges will work through well over 130 entries! The4-H members must know their recipe well and be able to tell the judge about their process whether they are a little one making snack mix or an accomplished one making macarons or a chiffon cake. Learning to read a recipe, understanding time and temperature requirements, practicing measuring, and using good food safety practices are skills for a whole life!

Wednesday will also have judging for Visual Arts. I am absolutely not crafty or artistic but I love the creativity on display! We will also have the Rabbit and Poultry shows.

Thursday is another whirlwind day of judging many project areas as well as the Business Appreciation Breakfast. The morning starts off with the swine show and ends with the bucket calf show with the horse halter classes in the afternoon.

Friday morning starts with the dairy goat show followed by the meat goat and sheep show. This is a great day to check out all of the fair entries as everything

will have been judged! The day ends with the 4-H Beef Show which is one of my favorite events.

Saturday is Kids’ Day at the fair! There are LOTS of open class livestock shows, the 4-H Horse riding classes, and a world of other events happening throughout the day. Be sure to check out the 4-H Fashion Revue at 6 pm on the stage in Expo II followed by several 4-H youth sharing a variety of talents!

Join us on Sunday for Round Robin. The top showmen and women in each of the 4-H species have the opportunity to show off their skills beginning with the small animal Round Robin at 10 which includes bucket calf, dog, dairy goat, rabbit, and poultry. This will be followed by the large animal Round Robin with beef, swine, sheep, goats, and horse. The Barton County Fair Association will host a Celebrity Livestock Showmanship contest at 1:30 which is always a lot of fun! The 4-H Awards begin about 2 followed by the 4-H Premium Auction for the Sale of Champions which includes each livestock species as well as several top-placing foods items!

While we are deep in fair activities here, 4-H Shooting Sports member, Madison Gaddis, will be competing at the National 4-H Shooting Sports competition as part of the Kansas team! We wish her well and can’t wait to see results.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the Family and Community Wellness agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Family and Community Wellness agent in the Cottonwood Extension District " />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Family and Community Wellness agent in the Cottonwood Extension District </figcaption>
 </figure>The theme of the 2025 Barton County Fair is Barnyard Mardi Gras and we have already started the fun with a couple of pre-fair events!Saturday kicked off our Fashion Revue, Sewing &amp; Textiles, and Fiber Arts judging. These are lifetime skills that go well beyond sewing a straight seam. Learning to coordinate clothing that fits well, complements your body and style, is appropriate for a specific environment, and works within your budget are skills that many of us continue to use. Hobbies such as crochet, knitting, macramé, or needle arts provide creative outlets and beautiful handmade gifts for others. I learned to crochet from my grandmother as a child and had several crochet projects exhibit at the Kansas State Fair as my skills improved. It is still an activity that I enjoy and I love carrying on my Grandmother’s tradition of gifting baby blankets to friends and family.Our 4-H Dog Show occurred on Sunday afternoon! Our six competitors have worked hard to build a team with their dog. We’ll have a poster at the fair with photos and results so be sure to check it out.Wednesday will begin early with exhibit check in and our 4-H Foods judging starts at 8:30. Four judges will work through well over 130 entries! The4-H members must know their recipe well and be able to tell the judge about their process whether they are a little one making snack mix or an accomplished one making macarons or a chiffon cake. Learning to read a recipe, understanding time and temperature requirements, practicing measuring, and using good food safety practices are skills for a whole life!Wednesday will also have judging for Visual Arts. I am absolutely not crafty or artistic but I love the creativity on display! We will also have the Rabbit and Poultry shows.Thursday is another whirlwind day of judging many project areas as well as the Business Appreciation Breakfast. The morning starts off with the swine show and ends with the bucket calf show with the horse halter classes in the afternoon.Friday morning starts with the dairy goat show followed by the meat goat and sheep show. This is a great day to check out all of the fair entries as everythingwill have been judged! The day ends with the 4-H Beef Show which is one of my favorite events.Saturday is Kids’ Day at the fair! There are LOTS of open class livestock shows, the 4-H Horse riding classes, and a world of other events happening throughout the day. Be sure to check out the 4-H Fashion Revue at 6 pm on the stage in Expo II followed by several 4-H youth sharing a variety of talents!Join us on Sunday for Round Robin. The top showmen and women in each of the 4-H species have the opportunity to show off their skills beginning with the small animal Round Robin at 10 which includes bucket calf, dog, dairy goat, rabbit, and poultry. This will be followed by the large animal Round Robin with beef, swine, sheep, goats, and horse. The Barton County Fair Association will host a Celebrity Livestock Showmanship contest at 1:30 which is always a lot of fun! The 4-H Awards begin about 2 followed by the 4-H Premium Auction for the Sale of Champions which includes each livestock species as well as several top-placing foods items!While we are deep in fair activities here, 4-H Shooting Sports member, Madison Gaddis, will be competing at the National 4-H Shooting Sports competition as part of the Kansas team! We wish her well and can’t wait to see results.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the Family and Community Wellness agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

BERAN: It’s Fair time in Barton County

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in May. This is unchanged from 3.8% in April and an increase from 3.5% in May 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.0% in May, according to a media release from the KDOL.

The unemployment rate in Barton County remains steady at 3.4 percent. The rate jumped in Pawnee County from 2.5 to 3 percent in May.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,800 from April. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,900 over the month, while government decreased by 100. The largest job gains in the private sector were in manufacturing (+1,600 jobs). The largest decrease was in&nbsp;professional and business services&nbsp;(-700 jobs).

Since May 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 12,500. This change is due to an increase of 2,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 10,300 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750428194131.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in May. This is unchanged from 3.8% in April and an increase from 3.5% in May 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.0% in May, according to a media release from the KDOL.The unemployment rate in Barton County remains steady at 3.4 percent. The rate jumped in Pawnee County from 2.5 to 3 percent in May.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,800 from April. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,900 over the month, while government decreased by 100. The largest job gains in the private sector were in manufacturing (+1,600 jobs). The largest decrease was in&nbsp;professional and business services&nbsp;(-700 jobs).Since May 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 12,500. This change is due to an increase of 2,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 10,300 government jobs.

Jobless numbers steady in Barton County, up in Pawnee County

RUSSELL COUNTY —A man drowned on Saturday at Wilson Lake.

Just after noon Saturday,&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell County Communications received a 911 call about a possible drowning at Lucas Swim Beach, Wilson Lake, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire, Army Corp of Engineers, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Russell County Emergency Management, and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene.

After a thorough search of the area, a body was located by boat sonar under the water. Divers were deployed and just after 2:30p.m. 43-year-old Lee Andrew Williams of Kansas City Missouri was recovered.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750690381838.png" alt="Wilson Lake photo Army Corps of Engineers" />
 <figcaption>Wilson Lake photo Army Corps of Engineers</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —A man drowned on Saturday at Wilson Lake.Just after noon Saturday,&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell County Communications received a 911 call about a possible drowning at Lucas Swim Beach, Wilson Lake, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire, Army Corp of Engineers, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Russell County Emergency Management, and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene.After a thorough search of the area, a body was located by boat sonar under the water. Divers were deployed and just after 2:30p.m. 43-year-old Lee Andrew Williams of Kansas City Missouri was recovered.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Sheriff: Body of drowning victim recovered at Wilson Lake

BOOKED: Treyton M. Dove on Barton County District Court case
for aggravated battery with a bond of $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Calvin J. Hinz on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for criminal trespass, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Leonard L. Boese on Barton County District Court warrants
for probation violation with no bond.

BOOKED: Adam Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
a serve sentence with no bond.

BOOKED: Jessie J. Mayer on Barton County District Court case
for possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, DUI and failure to
stop at stop sign with bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeanna M. Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant
for contempt of court, indirect, bond set at $500 cash only.

BOOKED: Jared L. Hood on Barton County District Court case
for DUI, no valid driver’s license, failure to signal within 100 feet of
intersection and improper turn with bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jamie R. Baldwin on Cowley County District Court warrant
for failure to appear after posting a cash bond of $500.

RELEASED: Treyton M. Dove on BCDC case for aggravated
battery after posting a surety bond of $20,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Jessie J. Mayer on BCDC case for possession of
marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, DUI and failure to stop at stop sign
after posting the $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Jeanna M. Gowdy on BCDC warrant for contempt of
court, indirect. Bonded by posting a cash bond of $500.

BOOKED: Johnathon Jensen on Barton County case for no driver’s
license x2, bond of $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Isabella M. Rodriguez on Barton County District
Court case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia,
possession of marijuana and failure to signal within 100 feet of a turn, bond
set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Juvenile for minor in consumption of alcohol and
trespass, no bond.

BOOKED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on Great Bend Municipal
Court warrant for serve sentence, no bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>6/20BOOKED: Treyton M. Dove on Barton County District Court case
for aggravated battery with a bond of $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Calvin J. Hinz on Great Bend Municipal Court case
for criminal trespass, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Leonard L. Boese on Barton County District Court warrants
for probation violation with no bond.BOOKED: Adam Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
a serve sentence with no bond.BOOKED: Jessie J. Mayer on Barton County District Court case
for possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, DUI and failure to
stop at stop sign with bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Jeanna M. Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant
for contempt of court, indirect, bond set at $500 cash only.BOOKED: Jared L. Hood on Barton County District Court case
for DUI, no valid driver’s license, failure to signal within 100 feet of
intersection and improper turn with bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jamie R. Baldwin on Cowley County District Court warrant
for failure to appear after posting a cash bond of $500.RELEASED: Treyton M. Dove on BCDC case for aggravated
battery after posting a surety bond of $20,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Jessie J. Mayer on BCDC case for possession of
marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, DUI and failure to stop at stop sign
after posting the $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Jeanna M. Gowdy on BCDC warrant for contempt of
court, indirect. Bonded by posting a cash bond of $500.6/21BOOKED: Johnathon Jensen on Barton County case for no driver’s
license x2, bond of $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Isabella M. Rodriguez on Barton County District
Court case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia,
possession of marijuana and failure to signal within 100 feet of a turn, bond
set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Juvenile for minor in consumption of alcohol and
trespass, no bond.BOOKED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on Great Bend Municipal
Court warrant for serve sentence, no bond.BOOKED: Jesse G. Pribble on Barton County District Court warrant
for probation violation x3, no bond.BOOKED: Robin M. Pierce on Barton County District Court
warrant for failure to appear, bond set at $678 cash only.RELEASED: Jared L. Hood on BCDC case for DUI, no valid
driver’s license, failure to signal within 100 feet of an intersection and
improper turn after posting the $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Johnathon Jensen on Barton County case for no
driver’s license x2, posted surety bond of $2,500 through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Isabella M. Rodriguez on BCDC case for possession
of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and
failure to signal within 100 feet of a turn, posted a surety bond of $10,000
through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Robin M. Pierce on BCDC warrant for failure to
appear after posting a cash bond of $678.6/22BOOKED: Roy S. Miller on Barton County District Court case
for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia, bond set at
$10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Linus Rupp on Barton County District Court warrant
for failure to appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Wendy Rogers on Barton County District Court case
for possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, no drug tax
stamp, criminal use of a weapon, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Mathew J. Apodaca on a Great Bend Municipal Court
case for domestic battery with a bond of $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Juvenile on BCDC case for minor in consumption of
alcohol and trespass.RELEASED: Calvin J. Hinz on GBMC case for criminal trespass
on a 48-hour OR through GBMC.RELEASED: Linus Rupp on BCDC warrant for failure to appear,
posted a surety bond of $500 through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Clayton Becker on BCDC warrant for probation
violation with time served.RELEASED: Kenneth R. Walton on BCDC case for driving without
a license, and case for failure to appear. Transferred to another agency.RELEASED: Maritn Balanzar-Leyva on BCDC case for a serve
sentence, end of sentence, time served.RELEASED: Mathew J. Apodaca on a GBMC case for domestic battery
with a bond of $1,000.RELEASED: Richard Mason on BCDC case for probation
violation, time served.

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