Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy, with a west-northwest wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 28. West wind 7 to 11 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 50. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 27. Light and variable wind.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 54. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 31.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.

Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 44.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy, with a west-northwest wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 28. West wind 7 to 11 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 50. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 27. Light and variable wind.Friday Sunny, with a high near 54. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 31.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 44.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

USD 428 Board of Education Luncheon November 20, 2024 Noon Eisenhower Elementary 1212 Garfield

AGENDA (AI) 1. Call to Order / Roll Call

(IO) 4. Building Report Principal Abigail Jonas and other staff members will share information regarding the academic programs and the school improvement efforts at Eisenhower Elementary School.

(AI) 5. Approval of Man Lift Purchase The maintenance department is requesting to purchase a new man lift to replace an existing unit that is 17 years old. The current lift has aging hydraulics, a worn-out battery, and older outrigger sensors. This man lift is used regularly for tasks such as changing lights and maintaining facilities. The administration will provide two quotes for man lifts from Equipment Share and will make a recommendation based&nbsp;on those quotes.

(AI) 6. Approval of Grants and Contributions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666383567895.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>USD 428 Board of Education Luncheon November 20, 2024 Noon Eisenhower Elementary 1212 GarfieldAGENDA (AI) 1. Call to Order / Roll Call(AI) 2. Adoption of Agenda(IO) 3. Recognition of Visitors(IO) 4. Building Report Principal Abigail Jonas and other staff members will share information regarding the academic programs and the school improvement efforts at Eisenhower Elementary School.(AI) 5. Approval of Man Lift Purchase The maintenance department is requesting to purchase a new man lift to replace an existing unit that is 17 years old. The current lift has aging hydraulics, a worn-out battery, and older outrigger sensors. This man lift is used regularly for tasks such as changing lights and maintaining facilities. The administration will provide two quotes for man lifts from Equipment Share and will make a recommendation based&nbsp;on those quotes.(AI) 6. Approval of Grants and Contributions(AI) 7. Personnel Report(AI) 8. Adjournment

USD 428 Board of Education Luncheon agenda (11/20)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Thanksgiving is now just more than a week away. But the time to start thawing a frozen turkey is several days before Nov. 28. Karissa Winkel, family and community wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District, said the best way to thaw a frozen turkey is in the fridge.  

"Remember, a 20-pound turkey needs at least 5-7 days in the refrigerator, and you want to keep that fridge at 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit," she said. "You can also thaw a turkey in cold water but make sure you allow 30 minutes per pound for that turkey, so that might take some time."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of bird if using a refrigerator, and suggests changing the water every 30 minutes if thawing the turkey that way. Fridge-thawed turkeys are safe for 1-2 days before cooking. Turkeys thawed in water should be cooked immediately. After the big meal, put the meat in an airtight container no more than two hours after eating.

"It can usually last 4-7 days in the fridge depending on what it is," Winkel said. "Make sure to check the color, smell, and all of those things before you eat leftovers."

Holiday safety for pets should also be kept in mind. Unseasoned, boneless turkey is usually okay in small quantities, but keep furry friends away from onions, grapes, garlic, and chocolate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698672012463.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThanksgiving is now just more than a week away. But the time to start thawing a frozen turkey is several days before Nov. 28. Karissa Winkel, family and community wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District, said the best way to thaw a frozen turkey is in the fridge. "Remember, a 20-pound turkey needs at least 5-7 days in the refrigerator, and you want to keep that fridge at 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit," she said. "You can also thaw a turkey in cold water but make sure you allow 30 minutes per pound for that turkey, so that might take some time."The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of bird if using a refrigerator, and suggests changing the water every 30 minutes if thawing the turkey that way. Fridge-thawed turkeys are safe for 1-2 days before cooking. Turkeys thawed in water should be cooked immediately. After the big meal, put the meat in an airtight container no more than two hours after eating."It can usually last 4-7 days in the fridge depending on what it is," Winkel said. "Make sure to check the color, smell, and all of those things before you eat leftovers."Holiday safety for pets should also be kept in mind. Unseasoned, boneless turkey is usually okay in small quantities, but keep furry friends away from onions, grapes, garlic, and chocolate.

Begin thawing frozen turkey 5-7 days before Thanksgiving

There are 260,000 HOSA members in 5,200 chapters in 54 states, territories, and countries. Barton County will soon add to those numbers. Last Monday, the USD 431 Board of Education approved a new chapter of HOSA-Future Health Professionals at Hoisington High School. Clara Barton Medical Center will help fund the club, which Director of Human Resources John Moshier said is another learning option for students.

"It's a student-led group, much like the Future Farmers of America or Future Business Leaders of America," he said. "It allows students the opportunity to explore health care occupations, practice leadership, and learn about different health care occupations. One of the things the students like is there are routinely competitions that will allow them the opportunity for recognition in performing health care activities."

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/61de145b-c062-4f87-b2f7-829e3ceffc38">READ MORE: Med-Dazzling - GBHS students earn recognition for medical innovation</a>

Clara Barton Medical Center will provide leadership with HOSA-involved employees, offer career exploration information from Moshier and Director of Public Relations and Provider Recruitment Sydney Dolezal, and provide presenters from different medical fields. The hospital will also make monetary contributions.

"With a partnership with Kansas Hospital Association, both Clara Barton and KHA will kick in $2,000 each year for three years to help get that HOSA group off the ground," Moshier said.

Moshier said the club will be mutually beneficial for the hospital, community, and the students who participate. This summer, students from Great Bend High School and Barton Community College attended HOSA's international competition in Houston.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731952703999.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThere are 260,000 HOSA members in 5,200 chapters in 54 states, territories, and countries. Barton County will soon add to those numbers. Last Monday, the USD 431 Board of Education approved a new chapter of HOSA-Future Health Professionals at Hoisington High School. Clara Barton Medical Center will help fund the club, which Director of Human Resources John Moshier said is another learning option for students."It's a student-led group, much like the Future Farmers of America or Future Business Leaders of America," he said. "It allows students the opportunity to explore health care occupations, practice leadership, and learn about different health care occupations. One of the things the students like is there are routinely competitions that will allow them the opportunity for recognition in performing health care activities."<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/61de145b-c062-4f87-b2f7-829e3ceffc38">READ MORE: Med-Dazzling - GBHS students earn recognition for medical innovation</a>Clara Barton Medical Center will provide leadership with HOSA-involved employees, offer career exploration information from Moshier and Director of Public Relations and Provider Recruitment Sydney Dolezal, and provide presenters from different medical fields. The hospital will also make monetary contributions."With a partnership with Kansas Hospital Association, both Clara Barton and KHA will kick in $2,000 each year for three years to help get that HOSA group off the ground," Moshier said.Moshier said the club will be mutually beneficial for the hospital, community, and the students who participate. This summer, students from Great Bend High School and Barton Community College attended HOSA's international competition in Houston.

Clara Barton Medical Center supporting new HOSA Club at Hoisington High School

As the old adage goes, nothing in this world can said to be certain except death and taxes. Property owners in Barton County will soon be receiving their tax statements. Treasurer Jim Jordan said the county is now offering escrow accounts to help residents save up money to pay those taxes.

"I had a gentleman come in the other day, open up a new escrow account, and put $800 in there for his taxes," Jordan said. "He had the money now, and he said if he put it in a savings account, he knows it's there and he would spend it. It works out nicely. You pick the amount and we put it in your account for you."

Setting up an escrow account is as simple as stopping by the treasurer's office on the first floor of the Barton County Courthouse and establishing an account.

"The only thing we do not do is we will not withdraw it from your bank account because there's a charge to do that to the county," Jordan said. "We just let you send us a check, you can stop by and drop it off, you can mail it. Check, cash, money order, however you want to do it."

Money in the escrow account will later be applied to any outstanding tax bill. By law, money in the escrow accounts are kept in non-interest bearing accounts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568596588417.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAs the old adage goes, nothing in this world can said to be certain except death and taxes. Property owners in Barton County will soon be receiving their tax statements. Treasurer Jim Jordan said the county is now offering escrow accounts to help residents save up money to pay those taxes."I had a gentleman come in the other day, open up a new escrow account, and put $800 in there for his taxes," Jordan said. "He had the money now, and he said if he put it in a savings account, he knows it's there and he would spend it. It works out nicely. You pick the amount and we put it in your account for you."Setting up an escrow account is as simple as stopping by the treasurer's office on the first floor of the Barton County Courthouse and establishing an account."The only thing we do not do is we will not withdraw it from your bank account because there's a charge to do that to the county," Jordan said. "We just let you send us a check, you can stop by and drop it off, you can mail it. Check, cash, money order, however you want to do it."Money in the escrow account will later be applied to any outstanding tax bill. By law, money in the escrow accounts are kept in non-interest bearing accounts.

Barton Co. Treasurer's Office offering escrow accounts for property taxes

The Environmental Protection Agency in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has required that a mailing be sent out to individuals that have marked lead, galvanized or unknown on the material surveys that was sent out earlier this year. This mailing is an informational brochure and cover letter that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment developed that is specific to the answers that were received on the survey.

If you DO NOT receive one do not worry as your response to the survey did not elicit a mailing. If you receive the mailing it is for your information on how to reduce or avoid lead exposure.

"It's just an informational brochure," said Cauley. "It's not to say that's what your materials are. It's to tell you the dangers of lead and how to avoid it."

This is in continued response to the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. If there are any concerns or questions, please contact the Utilities Department at (620) 793-4150 or the Public Works Office (620) 793-4150.

"We're still hoping through historical data that we can fill in some of the gaps," said Cauley. "We're also hoping through predictive modeling that we can fill in the gaps."

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jcauley@greatbendks.net">jcauley@greatbendks.net</a>.

The Environmental Protection Agency in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has required that a mailing be sent out to individuals that have marked lead, galvanized or unknown on the material surveys that was sent out earlier this year. This mailing is an informational brochure and cover letter that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment developed that is specific to the answers that were received on the survey.If you DO NOT receive one do not worry as your response to the survey did not elicit a mailing. If you receive the mailing it is for your information on how to reduce or avoid lead exposure."It's just an informational brochure," said Cauley. "It's not to say that's what your materials are. It's to tell you the dangers of lead and how to avoid it."This is in continued response to the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. If there are any concerns or questions, please contact the Utilities Department at (620) 793-4150 or the Public Works Office (620) 793-4150."We're still hoping through historical data that we can fill in some of the gaps," said Cauley. "We're also hoping through predictive modeling that we can fill in the gaps."If you have any questions or concerns, contact Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jcauley@greatbendks.net">jcauley@greatbendks.net</a>.

Lead & copper mailings coming out soon in Great Bend

This innovative program, launched in September by the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission (KGSC) in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension and the K-State Department of Plant Pathology, announces a comprehensive winter educational program.

Building on the success of its inaugural field day series, which focused on stalk rot prevention and producer profitability, the Sorghum Connection team offers an additional series of one-day events across central and western Kansas, which will delve deeper into key topics gained from the field days. These events will be held in Salina (December 4th), Hays (December 5th), and Garden City (December 6th). In Hays the program will be held at the K-State Agricultural Research Center, Hays, 1232 240th Avenue.

Attendees will gain valuable insights from leaders at Kansas State University on critical topics:

● Managing Chinch Bug Populations, presented by Anthony Zukoff, K-State Entomologists.

● Effective Weed Management Strategies, by Sarah Lancaster, K-State Weed Specialist.

● Unleashing the Potential of Sorghum in the Pet Food Industry presented by Julia Pezzali, K-State Director of Pet Food Program.

● Navigating the Sorghum Market Outlook, presented by Dan O’Brien, K-State Grain Market Specialist.

"The Sorghum Connection Series is more than just a series of events; it's an investment in the future of sorghum production in Kansas,” says Maddy Meier, KGSC’s director of communications and outreach. “By providing producers with access to the latest research and information, we're empowering them to make informed decisions and drive innovation in the heart of sorghum country."

Pre-registration is requested and each event begins with registration at 8:00 AM and concludes at approximately 3:00 PM. To register or learn more, visit www.ksgrainsorghum.org or call Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430.

The Sorghum Connection Series offers a unique opportunity for Kansas sorghum growers to connect, learn, and stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss this chance to cultivate success in the years ahead!

The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission is committed to sorghum promotion, research, and information designed to strengthen, expand and develop new foreign and domestic markets for sorghum.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>This innovative program, launched in September by the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission (KGSC) in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension and the K-State Department of Plant Pathology, announces a comprehensive winter educational program.Building on the success of its inaugural field day series, which focused on stalk rot prevention and producer profitability, the Sorghum Connection team offers an additional series of one-day events across central and western Kansas, which will delve deeper into key topics gained from the field days. These events will be held in Salina (December 4th), Hays (December 5th), and Garden City (December 6th). In Hays the program will be held at the K-State Agricultural Research Center, Hays, 1232 240th Avenue.Attendees will gain valuable insights from leaders at Kansas State University on critical topics:● Managing Chinch Bug Populations, presented by Anthony Zukoff, K-State Entomologists.● Effective Weed Management Strategies, by Sarah Lancaster, K-State Weed Specialist.● Unleashing the Potential of Sorghum in the Pet Food Industry presented by Julia Pezzali, K-State Director of Pet Food Program.● Navigating the Sorghum Market Outlook, presented by Dan O’Brien, K-State Grain Market Specialist."The Sorghum Connection Series is more than just a series of events; it's an investment in the future of sorghum production in Kansas,” says Maddy Meier, KGSC’s director of communications and outreach. “By providing producers with access to the latest research and information, we're empowering them to make informed decisions and drive innovation in the heart of sorghum country."Pre-registration is requested and each event begins with registration at 8:00 AM and concludes at approximately 3:00 PM. To register or learn more, visit www.ksgrainsorghum.org or call Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430.The Sorghum Connection Series offers a unique opportunity for Kansas sorghum growers to connect, learn, and stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss this chance to cultivate success in the years ahead!The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission is committed to sorghum promotion, research, and information designed to strengthen, expand and develop new foreign and domestic markets for sorghum.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Sorghum Connection extends support to Kansas growers

Downtowns are a barometer of the economic mental health of a community. Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the importance of a vibrant downtown during Tuesday morning's meeting as a call to city governments in the county to participate in the next round of Façade Improvement Grants. 

"We all want to have bigger companies come to our communities, but when a bigger company comes to a community to check it out, one of the first things they do is drive down Main Street and see how well Main Streets are taken care of," Hutchinson said. "I think this is step one of much larger plan that would help grow our communities."

Barton County began the grant program in 2021. With a pledge of $120,000 for 2025, the county has now contributed $1 million to improve the appearance of downtown businesses. Thirty-seven of the projects have been approved in Great Bend, 10 in Hoisington, nine in Claflin, and seven in Ellinwood.

"We figured out that it's something we can dedicate some money to that would actually improve the overall appearance of our downtowns in all four cities," said Hutchinson said. "Not only that, but it helps improve our community spirit, it improves shopping downtown, it improves sales tax collections, it improves property taxes. It improves so many things."

With Tuesday's approval, the county will reach out to all four cities to enter into a partnership for round three of the program. The county is asking for $20,000 each from Ellinwood, Claflin, and Hoisington, and $60,000 from the city of Great Bend. The grants would allow participating cities to fund up to $10,000 per project, which the county would match. The grants also require contributions from the business owners.

Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger said she has seen a definite impact with seven projects in Ellinwood's downtown, and Commissioner Duane Reif has seen positive changes in Claflin and Hoisington.

"When you fix up one," he said, "it seems like the ones beside it want to do something , too."

The commission will ask that cities respond to the partnership opportunity by the end of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642619756471.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostDowntowns are a barometer of the economic mental health of a community. Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the importance of a vibrant downtown during Tuesday morning's meeting as a call to city governments in the county to participate in the next round of Façade Improvement Grants. "We all want to have bigger companies come to our communities, but when a bigger company comes to a community to check it out, one of the first things they do is drive down Main Street and see how well Main Streets are taken care of," Hutchinson said. "I think this is step one of much larger plan that would help grow our communities."Barton County began the grant program in 2021. With a pledge of $120,000 for 2025, the county has now contributed $1 million to improve the appearance of downtown businesses. Thirty-seven of the projects have been approved in Great Bend, 10 in Hoisington, nine in Claflin, and seven in Ellinwood."We figured out that it's something we can dedicate some money to that would actually improve the overall appearance of our downtowns in all four cities," said Hutchinson said. "Not only that, but it helps improve our community spirit, it improves shopping downtown, it improves sales tax collections, it improves property taxes. It improves so many things."With Tuesday's approval, the county will reach out to all four cities to enter into a partnership for round three of the program. The county is asking for $20,000 each from Ellinwood, Claflin, and Hoisington, and $60,000 from the city of Great Bend. The grants would allow participating cities to fund up to $10,000 per project, which the county would match. The grants also require contributions from the business owners.Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger said she has seen a definite impact with seven projects in Ellinwood's downtown, and Commissioner Duane Reif has seen positive changes in Claflin and Hoisington."When you fix up one," he said, "it seems like the ones beside it want to do something , too."The commission will ask that cities respond to the partnership opportunity by the end of the year.

Barton Commission asks cities to partner in façade improvements

Students taking lessons via Barton’s Community Music School will host a recital at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 in the Dorothy Moses Morrison Chapel in the Fine Arts Building. The recital is free and open to the public.

The recital will feature piano performances by students of the Barton Community Music School, which were taught this semester by music major Ella McNett of Larned. &nbsp;Selections will include solos tea,cher-student duets of holiday numbers, and other solo performances that students worked on throughout the semester. &nbsp;There will also be a special holiday duet performance by McNett and Barton Director of Accompaniment and program supervisor Dr. Alejandro Avila to wish those in attendance a happy holiday season.

Avila started the Community Music School Program this semester for pianists aged 6-18. Each child enrolled in the program is paired with a Barton student who will provide one-on-one piano lessons. This non-credit offering allows parents to give their children access to quality music education while also contributing to the academic success of Barton students. The tuition, which starts at $15 for a 30-minute lesson, will go directly back to the student in the form of a scholarship. Longer lessons are also offered, and family discounts are available if more than one child enrolls.

“The Community Music School is a win-win for everyone involved,” he said. “Not only do the children receive valuable piano lessons, but the tuition they pay goes directly towards scholarships for the college students, helping to support their education and future careers in music.”

The program is now accepting students for the spring semester. The deadline to sign up is Jan. 17. For more information on options and pricing, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>. To register, contact Avila at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:avilaal@bartonccc.edu">avilaal@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9384.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731970756277.jpeg" alt="Barton Community Music School instructor Ella McNett of Larned works with a student on the Barton campus earlier this fall." />
 <figcaption>Barton Community Music School instructor Ella McNett of Larned works with a student on the Barton campus earlier this fall.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaStudents taking lessons via Barton’s Community Music School will host a recital at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 in the Dorothy Moses Morrison Chapel in the Fine Arts Building. The recital is free and open to the public.The recital will feature piano performances by students of the Barton Community Music School, which were taught this semester by music major Ella McNett of Larned. &nbsp;Selections will include solos tea,cher-student duets of holiday numbers, and other solo performances that students worked on throughout the semester. &nbsp;There will also be a special holiday duet performance by McNett and Barton Director of Accompaniment and program supervisor Dr. Alejandro Avila to wish those in attendance a happy holiday season.Avila started the Community Music School Program this semester for pianists aged 6-18. Each child enrolled in the program is paired with a Barton student who will provide one-on-one piano lessons. This non-credit offering allows parents to give their children access to quality music education while also contributing to the academic success of Barton students. The tuition, which starts at $15 for a 30-minute lesson, will go directly back to the student in the form of a scholarship. Longer lessons are also offered, and family discounts are available if more than one child enrolls.“The Community Music School is a win-win for everyone involved,” he said. “Not only do the children receive valuable piano lessons, but the tuition they pay goes directly towards scholarships for the college students, helping to support their education and future careers in music.”The program is now accepting students for the spring semester. The deadline to sign up is Jan. 17. For more information on options and pricing, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>. To register, contact Avila at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:avilaal@bartonccc.edu">avilaal@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9384.

Barton’s Community Music School students to present recital

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/18)

At 3:22 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 200
block of NW 100 Road in Hoisington.

At 7:51 p.m. an accident was reported at 561 N. US 281
Highway.

At 8:28 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 109 on N. US 281
Highway.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/18)

At 8:01 a.m. an accident was reported at 2920 10th
Street.

At 2:39 p.m. a missing person was reported at 220 Pawnee
Road.

At 2:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 1713 Tyler.

At 2:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Williams.

At 2:45 p.m. an accident was reported at 2023 10th
Street.

At 3:10 p.m. a report of someone using her social security
number was made at 2625 Gano.

At 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; McKinley.

At 4:45 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2529 9th
Street.

At 9:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5842 Rosewood Dr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/18)Cattle OutAt 3:22 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 200
block of NW 100 Road in Hoisington.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:51 p.m. an accident was reported at 561 N. US 281
Highway.At 8:28 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 109 on N. US 281
Highway.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/18)Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:01 a.m. an accident was reported at 2920 10th
Street.Missing Person / RunawayAt 2:39 p.m. a missing person was reported at 220 Pawnee
Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 2:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 1713 Tyler.At 2:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Williams.At 2:45 p.m. an accident was reported at 2023 10th
Street.FraudAt 3:10 p.m. a report of someone using her social security
number was made at 2625 Gano.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; McKinley.Unconscious / FaintingAt 4:45 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2529 9th
Street.Chest PainAt 9:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5842 Rosewood Dr.

Cop Shop (11/18)

Eagle Media Center-12th &amp; Baker:&nbsp; 1.17 3-miles No. of Alexander: Charles Austin: 2.10 LaCrosse Sale Barn-Ryan Zeltwanger:&nbsp;1.25 North of Albert-Steve Schneider: 1.00 Quail Creek, Great Bend: Kevyn Soupiset: 1.74 North of Susank-Don Mai: 1.20 No. of Larned/West of Great Bend-Gerald Oetken: 1.01 Seward Metroplex - Richard Devine: 1.29 So. of Rush Center-Marvin Schneider: 1.50 South Hoisington-London Reif:&nbsp; .97 Bissell Point, No. of Great Bend-Phil G: 1.43 American Plains Coop test plot West of G.B.: 1.12 West Great Bend-Juan Yureva: 1.02 BTI South of Great Bend: 1.15 Panning Ranch East of Ellinwood: 1.40 Great Bend High School-Mike Courson: .85 West of Larned: Gary Wagner: 1.40 North of Hollyrood-Andrew: 1.18 North Larned-Garrett Fitzpatrick: 1.63 Just South of G.B. Cemetery-Deb Koch: 1.20 Claflin - Jere Buehler: 1.10 24th &amp; Jackson-Darin Hall: .80 5-Miles So. of Albert-Joey Bahr: 1.10 Northeast Ellinwood-Glen Hertel: 1.50

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694524813841.jpeg" alt="Rainfall totals for the past weekend including Monday called into the 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM studio. Call 620-792-2479 before 8 a.m." />
 <figcaption>Rainfall totals for the past weekend including Monday called into the 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM studio. Call 620-792-2479 before 8 a.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Media Center-12th &amp; Baker:&nbsp; 1.17 3-miles No. of Alexander: Charles Austin: 2.10 LaCrosse Sale Barn-Ryan Zeltwanger:&nbsp;1.25 North of Albert-Steve Schneider: 1.00 Quail Creek, Great Bend: Kevyn Soupiset: 1.74 North of Susank-Don Mai: 1.20 No. of Larned/West of Great Bend-Gerald Oetken: 1.01 Seward Metroplex - Richard Devine: 1.29 So. of Rush Center-Marvin Schneider: 1.50 South Hoisington-London Reif:&nbsp; .97 Bissell Point, No. of Great Bend-Phil G: 1.43 American Plains Coop test plot West of G.B.: 1.12 West Great Bend-Juan Yureva: 1.02 BTI South of Great Bend: 1.15 Panning Ranch East of Ellinwood: 1.40 Great Bend High School-Mike Courson: .85 West of Larned: Gary Wagner: 1.40 North of Hollyrood-Andrew: 1.18 North Larned-Garrett Fitzpatrick: 1.63 Just South of G.B. Cemetery-Deb Koch: 1.20 Claflin - Jere Buehler: 1.10 24th &amp; Jackson-Darin Hall: .80 5-Miles So. of Albert-Joey Bahr: 1.10 Northeast Ellinwood-Glen Hertel: 1.50

Weekend rainfall totals (Final)

11/18 BOOKED: Skyler Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $165 cash only.

RELEASED: Nathan Manley, on 24-hour furlow.

RELEASED: Dustin Hawkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault x2 and Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, on $20,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Tyus Martez on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, per county attorney.

RELEASED: Clayton Mattox on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Domestic Burglary and Interference with LEO, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Skyler Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $165 cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>11/18 BOOKED: Skyler Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $165 cash only.RELEASED: Nathan Manley, on 24-hour furlow.RELEASED: Dustin Hawkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault x2 and Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, on $20,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Tyus Martez on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, per county attorney.RELEASED: Clayton Mattox on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Domestic Burglary and Interference with LEO, by order of the court.RELEASED: Skyler Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $165 cash bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (11/18)

News From The Oil Patch, Nov. 18 John P. Tretbar

President-elect Donald Trump announced the nomination of oil industry executive Chris Wright to lead the Department of Energy. Wright is the CEO of Colorado-based Liberty Energy. If confirmed, he takes over a department that oversees the country's energy supplies, research and development of nuclear power, 17 national laboratories and the cleanup of Cold War-era nuclear efforts.

The Energy Department added 600,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves, raising the total to nearly 388 million barrels, down about ten percent from a year ago.

The government reports commercial crude inventories rose by more than two million barrels last week to nearly 430 million barrels. Stockpiles are four percent below the five-year seasonal average.US crude production dipped by 96,000 barrels a day in the week through November 8th. Stockpiles are over 13.4 million barrels for only the eighth time in history. Four-week average production is down about two percent from a year ago. Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly six percent at over 13.2 million barrels per day.

The nation's inventory of shale wells drilled but uncompleted dropped by 19 wells nationwide. The Energy Information Administration reports the list went up in the Permian basin and the Haynesville shale basin in Louisiana. The tallies all dropped from last month in the Eagle Ford play in Texas, The Bakken shale in North Dakota and across Appalachia in the northeastern United States.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down four rigs in the western half of the state at 15 rigs. The tally is down nine percent from a month ago and 23% lower than last year at this time. Drilling was underway on Friday on a least in Barton County. Operators were preparing to spud new wells on one lease in Barton County and another in Ellis County. The count in eastern Kansas is unchanged at 15 rigs.

Operators in Kansas completed 26 wells last week, bringing the total this year to 1,163 wells. That's down 322 wells from last year at this time. The tally of completions rose by 19 in Western Kansas, adding one well in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and one in Stafford County.

Kansas regulators gave their okay to 20 new drilling locations across the state, with 13 east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and two in Ellis County. That's 1,005 new drilling permits so far this year, down 166 permits from a year ago.

The Rig Counts from Baker Hughes dropped by one gas rig and one oil rig for a total of 584 active drilling rigs nationwide.&nbsp; Texas was up two while New Mexico dropped by two. Oklahoma and Pennsylvania were each up one rig. Utah was down one.

In response tightened sanctions on Russia, Iran and Venezuela, the OPEC-Plus producers are amassing a huge fleet of shadow tankers to bypass trade restrictions and continue seaborne oil shipments. The so-called shadow fleet now makes up nearly 20% of the global tanker fleet. They tend to be poorly maintained, under-insured, and dangerous at sea due to manipulated tracking signals. Analysis by S&amp;P Global suggests there are 889 illicit tankers worldwide moving sanctioned oil.&nbsp; They're mostly controlled by Russian, Iranian and Venezuelan state interests that have been able to acquire a large amount of vintage ships in secondhand transactions.

The government now says more than one-third of US natural gas production does not come from gas wells. A new report shows that natural gas produced at oil-wells, so-called "associated natural gas," now accounts for 36.7 of all natural gas produced in the US. EIA reports associated natural gas production is up nearly eight percent.&nbsp; * The Permian Basin in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico accounts for 46% of US crude production and roughly two-thirds of the associated natural gas produced nationwide.&nbsp; * North Dakota skies used to light up at night, as producers in the Bakken play burning off natural gas created a spectacle visible from space. A government initiative to reduce flaring in North Dakota has created a different kind of spectacle: a massive profit center. Associated gas accounts for 70% of the natural gas produced in North Dakota.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News From The Oil Patch, Nov. 18 John P. TretbarPresident-elect Donald Trump announced the nomination of oil industry executive Chris Wright to lead the Department of Energy. Wright is the CEO of Colorado-based Liberty Energy. If confirmed, he takes over a department that oversees the country's energy supplies, research and development of nuclear power, 17 national laboratories and the cleanup of Cold War-era nuclear efforts.The Energy Department added 600,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves, raising the total to nearly 388 million barrels, down about ten percent from a year ago.The government reports commercial crude inventories rose by more than two million barrels last week to nearly 430 million barrels. Stockpiles are four percent below the five-year seasonal average.US crude production dipped by 96,000 barrels a day in the week through November 8th. Stockpiles are over 13.4 million barrels for only the eighth time in history. Four-week average production is down about two percent from a year ago. Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly six percent at over 13.2 million barrels per day.The nation's inventory of shale wells drilled but uncompleted dropped by 19 wells nationwide. The Energy Information Administration reports the list went up in the Permian basin and the Haynesville shale basin in Louisiana. The tallies all dropped from last month in the Eagle Ford play in Texas, The Bakken shale in North Dakota and across Appalachia in the northeastern United States.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down four rigs in the western half of the state at 15 rigs. The tally is down nine percent from a month ago and 23% lower than last year at this time. Drilling was underway on Friday on a least in Barton County. Operators were preparing to spud new wells on one lease in Barton County and another in Ellis County. The count in eastern Kansas is unchanged at 15 rigs.Operators in Kansas completed 26 wells last week, bringing the total this year to 1,163 wells. That's down 322 wells from last year at this time. The tally of completions rose by 19 in Western Kansas, adding one well in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and one in Stafford County.Kansas regulators gave their okay to 20 new drilling locations across the state, with 13 east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and two in Ellis County. That's 1,005 new drilling permits so far this year, down 166 permits from a year ago.The Rig Counts from Baker Hughes dropped by one gas rig and one oil rig for a total of 584 active drilling rigs nationwide.&nbsp; Texas was up two while New Mexico dropped by two. Oklahoma and Pennsylvania were each up one rig. Utah was down one.In response tightened sanctions on Russia, Iran and Venezuela, the OPEC-Plus producers are amassing a huge fleet of shadow tankers to bypass trade restrictions and continue seaborne oil shipments. The so-called shadow fleet now makes up nearly 20% of the global tanker fleet. They tend to be poorly maintained, under-insured, and dangerous at sea due to manipulated tracking signals. Analysis by S&amp;P Global suggests there are 889 illicit tankers worldwide moving sanctioned oil.&nbsp; They're mostly controlled by Russian, Iranian and Venezuelan state interests that have been able to acquire a large amount of vintage ships in secondhand transactions.The government now says more than one-third of US natural gas production does not come from gas wells. A new report shows that natural gas produced at oil-wells, so-called "associated natural gas," now accounts for 36.7 of all natural gas produced in the US. EIA reports associated natural gas production is up nearly eight percent.&nbsp; * The Permian Basin in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico accounts for 46% of US crude production and roughly two-thirds of the associated natural gas produced nationwide.&nbsp; * North Dakota skies used to light up at night, as producers in the Bakken play burning off natural gas created a spectacle visible from space. A government initiative to reduce flaring in North Dakota has created a different kind of spectacle: a massive profit center. Associated gas accounts for 70% of the natural gas produced in North Dakota.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Colorado oil exec gets energy secretary nod

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 49. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 30. West wind 10 to 13 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 51. West-northwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 28. West wind around 8 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 49. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 53.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 31.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 55.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 49. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tonight Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 30. West wind 10 to 13 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 51. West-northwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 28. West wind around 8 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 49. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.Friday Sunny, with a high near 53.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 31.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 55.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 31.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in December. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in December. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;Those celebrating 45 years:<ul>
 <li>Brent Gurwell, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Scranton</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:<ul>
 <li>Robert Robinson, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Columbus</li><li>Kevin Strube, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Horton</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 30 years:<ul>
 <li>Nicholas Baker, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Lewis</li><li>Mitch Sothers, Chief of Innovative Technology,&nbsp;Auburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 25 years:<ul>
 <li>David Alexander, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Hutchinson</li><li>Shane Houser, Construction Letting Engineer,&nbsp;Wakarusa</li><li>Delbert Ramsey, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Lyndon</li><li>Steven Sheaffer, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Oberlin</li><li>Brent Terstriep, District Two Engineer,&nbsp;Salina</li><li>Thad Vincent, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Weskan</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 20 years:<ul>
 <li>Anthony Menke, Project Delivery Director,&nbsp;Berryton</li><li>Dennis Oller, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Turon</li><li>Terri Slater, Public Service Executive III,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Eric Walker, Equipment Shop Supervisor,&nbsp;Altoona</li><li>Lesley Yarrington, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Amsterdamm</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 15 years:<ul>
 <li>Matthew Graham, Professional Civil Engineer I,&nbsp;Wichita</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 10 years:<ul>
 <li>Christopher Blume, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Nickerson</li><li>Richard Ferguson, Equipment Mechanic,&nbsp;Moran</li><li>John Martin, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Cherokee</li><li>Jonathon Ploutz, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Larned</li><li>Joshua Wenger, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Muscotah</li>
 </ul>

Larned KDOT employee celebrates service anniversary

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In July 2020, Suchy Construction was awarded a $1.6 million contract to
reconstruct the SRCA Dragstrip at the fairgrounds, just outside of Great Bend. After
the project was completed in May 2021, issues with high spots and needing to
polish the concrete was brought to the attention of the SRCA Board and Great
Bend City Council. 

Spending extra money to polish the track caused the top
sealing part of the concrete to come off, creating thousands of holes in the track.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/4dc443f9-006f-4511-895a-185b614aa472">RELATED STORY: Great Bend's dragstrip - Lingering problems, responsibility questions</a>

Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning said the city has been working
through lawsuits and arbitration claims for the past few years to determine who
is at fault for a project completed that did not meet the dragstrip’s
specifications.


"Through mediation last week and finally today, we've come to a tentative settlement agreement with the Suchy side of things," said Glendenning. "We recommend that you (council) approve this settlement agreement and authorize the mayor to sign it."

The SRCA has cancelled the past two race seasons because the track has been
unsafe to operate, and there is a lack of funding to resolve the recent mishap.


No details of the settlement agreement or steps to potentially repair the track
were revealed following the city council’s 15-minute executive session Monday
night. The council voted 8-0 to approve the settlement agreement with Suchy
Construction.


This past October, <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a68b1d8b-e216-4465-a567-e839c58ec2da">the city revealed plans</a> to start the process for a Sales Tax
and Revenue (STAR) bond that includes improvements at the SRCA Dragstrip. If
approved, the STAR bond could still be years out from getting started.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603813855128.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn July 2020, Suchy Construction was awarded a $1.6 million contract to
reconstruct the SRCA Dragstrip at the fairgrounds, just outside of Great Bend. After
the project was completed in May 2021, issues with high spots and needing to
polish the concrete was brought to the attention of the SRCA Board and Great
Bend City Council. Spending extra money to polish the track caused the top
sealing part of the concrete to come off, creating thousands of holes in the track.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/4dc443f9-006f-4511-895a-185b614aa472">RELATED STORY: Great Bend's dragstrip - Lingering problems, responsibility questions</a>Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning said the city has been working
through lawsuits and arbitration claims for the past few years to determine who
is at fault for a project completed that did not meet the dragstrip’s
specifications.
"Through mediation last week and finally today, we've come to a tentative settlement agreement with the Suchy side of things," said Glendenning. "We recommend that you (council) approve this settlement agreement and authorize the mayor to sign it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676068888059.jpeg" alt="Holes in the dragstrip following the completion of the reconstruction and paving." />
 <figcaption>Holes in the dragstrip following the completion of the reconstruction and paving.</figcaption>
 </figure>The SRCA has cancelled the past two race seasons because the track has been
unsafe to operate, and there is a lack of funding to resolve the recent mishap.
No details of the settlement agreement or steps to potentially repair the track
were revealed following the city council’s 15-minute executive session Monday
night. The council voted 8-0 to approve the settlement agreement with Suchy
Construction.
This past October, <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a68b1d8b-e216-4465-a567-e839c58ec2da">the city revealed plans</a> to start the process for a Sales Tax
and Revenue (STAR) bond that includes improvements at the SRCA Dragstrip. If
approved, the STAR bond could still be years out from getting started.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend & Suchy Construction agree to settlement on dragstrip problems

HODGEMAN COUNTY —Kansas 156 highway east of Jetmore between U.S. 283 and U.S. 183 (4 miles east of the Rozel area)is closed after a trailer lost an oversized load wind turbine tower section, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. As a result Hodgeman County Schools will be closed Tuesday, according to a social media report from USD 227. There will be no practices and the music program will be rescheduled.

&nbsp;A flagging operation is in place to detour traffic. Please slow down and watch out for crews working the scene.&nbsp;

Officials will use a crane to remove it from under the transmission line probably have to cut power to those lines in the process, according to the Hodgeman County Sheriff.

The closure is expected to continue until late Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731981449151.png" alt="Photo KDOT" />
 <figcaption>Photo KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>HODGEMAN COUNTY —Kansas 156 highway east of Jetmore between U.S. 283 and U.S. 183 (4 miles east of the Rozel area)is closed after a trailer lost an oversized load wind turbine tower section, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. As a result Hodgeman County Schools will be closed Tuesday, according to a social media report from USD 227. There will be no practices and the music program will be rescheduled.&nbsp;A flagging operation is in place to detour traffic. Please slow down and watch out for crews working the scene.&nbsp;Officials will use a crane to remove it from under the transmission line probably have to cut power to those lines in the process, according to the Hodgeman County Sheriff.The closure is expected to continue until late Tuesday.

Road closed, schools closed: Semi hauling wind turbine tower lost load on K-156

Kansas grain sorghum growers are invited to attend the Sorghum Connection Winter program to be held in Hays on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Agricultural Research Center, Hays, 1232 240th Avenue.

This innovative program, launched in September by the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension announces a comprehensive winter educational program.

Building on the success of its inaugural field day series, which focused on stalk rot prevention

Attendees will gain valuable insights from leaders at Kansas State University &amp; Kansas Sorghum Commission on critical topics:

● Managing Chinch Bug Populations, presented by Anthony Zukoff

● Effective Weed Management Strategies, presented by Sarah Lancaster

● Unleashing the Potential of Sorghum in the Pet Food Industry presented by Julia Pezzali

● Navigating the Sorghum Market Outlook, presented by Dan O’Brien

The event begins with registration at 8:00 AM and concludes at approximately 3:00 PM. On Thursday, December 5th in Hays at the K-State Ag Research Center.

Pre-registration is requested to register or learn more, visit www.ksgrainsorghum.org. that’s www.ksgrainsorghum.org

Or call the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.

Kansas grain sorghum growers are invited to attend the Sorghum Connection Winter program to be held in Hays on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Agricultural Research Center, Hays, 1232 240th Avenue.This innovative program, launched in September by the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension announces a comprehensive winter educational program.Building on the success of its inaugural field day series, which focused on stalk rot preventionand producer profitability.Attendees will gain valuable insights from leaders at Kansas State University &amp; Kansas Sorghum Commission on critical topics:● Managing Chinch Bug Populations, presented by Anthony Zukoff● Effective Weed Management Strategies, presented by Sarah Lancaster● Unleashing the Potential of Sorghum in the Pet Food Industry presented by Julia Pezzali● Navigating the Sorghum Market Outlook, presented by Dan O’BrienThe event begins with registration at 8:00 AM and concludes at approximately 3:00 PM. On Thursday, December 5th in Hays at the K-State Ag Research Center.Pre-registration is requested to register or learn more, visit www.ksgrainsorghum.org. that’s www.ksgrainsorghum.orgOr call the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.

Sorghum Connection meeting in Hays on Dec. 5

The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:

“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”

Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.

Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.

“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.

After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:

1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.

2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.

When the sink is used to clean and sanitize, it’s easy to forget that the sink itself can become contaminated. So, be mindful of your food prep habits to keep you and the entire family healthy this holiday season.

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.

<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>The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.When the sink is used to clean and sanitize, it’s easy to forget that the sink itself can become contaminated. So, be mindful of your food prep habits to keep you and the entire family healthy this holiday season.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.

WINKEL: Food safety tip - Clean the kitchen sink

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

FUEL Barton County’s "All Out Fall Mixer" was a resounding success, drawing an impressive crowd of young professionals and emerging leaders from across the community. Hosted at the Animal Medical Center, the FUEL Steering Committee unveiled their 2025 calendar of events and newly revamped membership model.

"FUEL is excited to launch our new membership model," said FUEL Barton County Steering Committee President, Callie Miller. "Our goal is to empower the next generation of leaders by making it easier for them to connect, grow, and succeed both personally and professionally. This new approach offers greater opportunities for networking and enhanced professional development resources to the young professionals in our community."&nbsp;

- Individual Memberships: $50 annually for Chamber members or $75 for non-members, providing access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and personal and professional development sessions.&nbsp;

- Corporate Memberships: Tailored packages starting at $100 for three memberships, with larger group options available, ensuring companies can involve their teams in FUEL's offerings.&nbsp;

- Benefits include free or discounted event access, participation in FUEL action teams, eligibility for leadership roles, and a mentoring program.&nbsp;

The 2025 lineup promises engaging events such as Leadership Luncheons with partners like USD 428, Nex-Tech Wireless, and Spectrum CPA, as well as fun social activities like Casino Night, Adult Swim Night, Networking Mixers, and Fall Fest.&nbsp;

With strong sponsorship support from local businesses like Dry Lake Brewing, Eldridge Fencing, P &amp; S Security, MPIRE Properties, Buckle, and First Kansas Bank, the mixer was a testament to the community's commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.&nbsp;

FUEL Barton County continues to serve as a vital resource for young professionals seeking to expand their horizons and make meaningful contributions to their community. Thanks to these 2024 Steering Committee members and their employers: Callie Miller (Housing Opportunities, Inc.), Kaitlin Sill (Barton Community College), Katie Hales (Mitchell K Haney &amp; Assoc), Christy Conner (First Kansas Bank), Kelsey Hall (Barton County Upward Bound), Christian Rivas (Barton Community College), Flor Sanchez (Heart of Kansas Family Healthcare), and Zach Streit (Landmark National Bank).

For more information about FUEL Barton County or to join the program, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fuelbc@greatbend.org">fuelbc@greatbend.org</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://greatbend.org/">greatbend.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731943237058.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...FUEL Barton County’s "All Out Fall Mixer" was a resounding success, drawing an impressive crowd of young professionals and emerging leaders from across the community. Hosted at the Animal Medical Center, the FUEL Steering Committee unveiled their 2025 calendar of events and newly revamped membership model."FUEL is excited to launch our new membership model," said FUEL Barton County Steering Committee President, Callie Miller. "Our goal is to empower the next generation of leaders by making it easier for them to connect, grow, and succeed both personally and professionally. This new approach offers greater opportunities for networking and enhanced professional development resources to the young professionals in our community."&nbsp;The new membership model offers:&nbsp;- Individual Memberships: $50 annually for Chamber members or $75 for non-members, providing access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and personal and professional development sessions.&nbsp;- Corporate Memberships: Tailored packages starting at $100 for three memberships, with larger group options available, ensuring companies can involve their teams in FUEL's offerings.&nbsp;- Benefits include free or discounted event access, participation in FUEL action teams, eligibility for leadership roles, and a mentoring program.&nbsp;The 2025 lineup promises engaging events such as Leadership Luncheons with partners like USD 428, Nex-Tech Wireless, and Spectrum CPA, as well as fun social activities like Casino Night, Adult Swim Night, Networking Mixers, and Fall Fest.&nbsp;With strong sponsorship support from local businesses like Dry Lake Brewing, Eldridge Fencing, P &amp; S Security, MPIRE Properties, Buckle, and First Kansas Bank, the mixer was a testament to the community's commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.&nbsp;FUEL Barton County continues to serve as a vital resource for young professionals seeking to expand their horizons and make meaningful contributions to their community. Thanks to these 2024 Steering Committee members and their employers: Callie Miller (Housing Opportunities, Inc.), Kaitlin Sill (Barton Community College), Katie Hales (Mitchell K Haney &amp; Assoc), Christy Conner (First Kansas Bank), Kelsey Hall (Barton County Upward Bound), Christian Rivas (Barton Community College), Flor Sanchez (Heart of Kansas Family Healthcare), and Zach Streit (Landmark National Bank).For more information about FUEL Barton County or to join the program, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fuelbc@greatbend.org">fuelbc@greatbend.org</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://greatbend.org/">greatbend.org</a>.

New FUEL Barton County membership model launched

From the Barton County Historical Society...

The Barton County Historical Society is excited to introduce their First Annual Brass Christmas Ornament. The ornaments are a 3” brass ornament featuring the 1874 Barton County Court House that served the citizens of Barton County until 1917 when it was razed to make way for the current courthouse. The 1874 structure cost $24,200 to construct and was 54-feet by 80-feet, constructed of brick and native stone.&nbsp;&nbsp;The stately building served the community in many ways through the early years of Barton County, allowing space for church and civic meetings in the courtroom until proper edifices could be constructed.

The ornaments will be an annual tradition featuring various historic locations throughout Barton County. &nbsp;These ornaments are limited to 100, so purchase your collectible ornament now.&nbsp;&nbsp;Historical society members may purchase the ornaments for $21.50, while the ornaments are available for $32.25 for those who are not members.&nbsp;&nbsp;Memberships are available at the time of purchase as well.

The ornaments are available during regular business hours, Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731942831319.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From the Barton County Historical Society...The Barton County Historical Society is excited to introduce their First Annual Brass Christmas Ornament. The ornaments are a 3” brass ornament featuring the 1874 Barton County Court House that served the citizens of Barton County until 1917 when it was razed to make way for the current courthouse. The 1874 structure cost $24,200 to construct and was 54-feet by 80-feet, constructed of brick and native stone.&nbsp;&nbsp;The stately building served the community in many ways through the early years of Barton County, allowing space for church and civic meetings in the courtroom until proper edifices could be constructed.The ornaments will be an annual tradition featuring various historic locations throughout Barton County. &nbsp;These ornaments are limited to 100, so purchase your collectible ornament now.&nbsp;&nbsp;Historical society members may purchase the ornaments for $21.50, while the ornaments are available for $32.25 for those who are not members.&nbsp;&nbsp;Memberships are available at the time of purchase as well.The ornaments are available during regular business hours, Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend.

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