BARTON COUNTY —Police are investigating an alleged school threat in Great Bend and have made an arrest.

Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to Great Bend Middle School, 1919 Harrison, after a report of threats made to students and staff, according to a media release.

Great Bend Police Department School Resource Officers, Patrol Officers and Detectives responded to assess and investigate any possible threats made.

 During the investigation, detectives learned a threat was communicated to several students. Police arrested a 14-year-old boy at the school.

Information for this case was sent to the Barton County Attorney's Office.&nbsp; Anyone with further information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or CrimeStoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at <a href="http://p3tips.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3zVc5H23Vh3B_tPSU-0Iq6WXmUQOZJaS6MwZ2Gdf-Q2veqS2NRjNmv-gA_aem_7ztdnHU4Ca8Dnu77wDR1nQ" target="_blank">p3tips.com.</a>

BARTON COUNTY —Police are investigating an alleged school threat in Great Bend and have made an arrest.Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to Great Bend Middle School, 1919 Harrison, after a report of threats made to students and staff, according to a media release.Great Bend Police Department School Resource Officers, Patrol Officers and Detectives responded to assess and investigate any possible threats made. During the investigation, detectives learned a threat was communicated to several students. Police arrested a 14-year-old boy at the school.Information for this case was sent to the Barton County Attorney's Office.&nbsp; Anyone with further information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or CrimeStoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at <a href="http://p3tips.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3zVc5H23Vh3B_tPSU-0Iq6WXmUQOZJaS6MwZ2Gdf-Q2veqS2NRjNmv-gA_aem_7ztdnHU4Ca8Dnu77wDR1nQ" target="_blank">p3tips.com.</a>

14-year-old arrested for alleged threat at Great Bend Middle School

The Barton Community College Library will team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a writing workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 in the Cavanaugh Room in the Barton Library.

The workshop will focus on improving participants’ writing through collaboration with some of the editors of “Prairie Ink,” faculty and staff from Barton, and members of the community. Attendees are encouraged to bring whatever writing projects they’re working on or come prepared to help others.

For more information or to contact the “Prairie Ink” staff, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://prairieink.bartonccc.edu/">prairieink.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726759602309.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College Library will team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a writing workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 in the Cavanaugh Room in the Barton Library.The workshop will focus on improving participants’ writing through collaboration with some of the editors of “Prairie Ink,” faculty and staff from Barton, and members of the community. Attendees are encouraged to bring whatever writing projects they’re working on or come prepared to help others.For more information or to contact the “Prairie Ink” staff, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://prairieink.bartonccc.edu/">prairieink.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Community College to host writing workshop

When the final fields are cut, the trucks empty, the bins full and the combines cleaned out, Kansas wheat farmers breathe a quick sigh of relief that harvest season is complete. But for Kathy Brower, lab manager for Grain Craft’s Innovation and Quality Lab, harvest is just the start of her busy season as she takes samples from those farmers and puts them to the test for how that wheat will perform in making a consistently good loaf of bread.&nbsp;

“Grain Craft leads by example through educating their customers about wheat quality while communicating those needs back to wheat farmers and researchers,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice-president of research and operations, who interviewed Brower for an episode of the organization’s “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast. “That dialogue supports the advancement of wheat quality for the entire supply chain.”

Grain Craft is the largest independent flour miller in the United States. The company has longstanding relationships with Kansas Wheat and Kansas State University. So when it came time in 2021 to establish a new laboratory focused on varietal research, there was little doubt an ideal location would be inside the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center on K-State’s north campus. Today, Grain Craft has 12 mills in the United States and the lab in Manhattan does the analysis for quite a few of them, especially for hard wheats destined for the bread industry.&nbsp;

And who better to manage the lab than Brower, the daughter of a fifth-generation wheat farmer and K-State food science graduate with the experience needed to connect the dots between the wheat developed by breeding programs, the varieties planted each year and the final end-use quality of those kernels.&nbsp;

“Having us here at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, we can bring in various tour groups, even famous football coaches like Bill Snyder,” Brower said. “I really love making that connection with people. We’ve even had some of the farmers come in and they’ve got to see their specific variety baked out in our process. It’s a tremendous opportunity to put those connections together.”&nbsp;

While the lab’s work is never truly complete, their new crop testing starts as soon as producers begin wheat harvest. In mid-June, a company courier starts collecting samples from throughout the region, which are brought into the lab and tested. Mills, breeding programs and even individual farmers also send in samples. With kernels in hand, testing begins in the Grain Craft laboratory’s milling facility, where kernels are tempered, cleaned, processed and ground.&nbsp;

The resulting flour moves into the company’s flour analysis lab. Grain samples are run through near infrared imaging (NIR), which measures both protein content and initial moisture ash - a common quality factor requested by millers.&nbsp;

“Ash is the mineral left behind after you’ve burned off all the carbohydrates and all the protein,” Brower said. “If you have that outer layer of the kernel, that outer layer contains a lot of mineral content in it. When we’re putting something through the mill - grinding - that part is always going to be present within the flour itself. If we know our ash content, we can get a good idea of how well we’re grinding.”

After initial testing, it is time to make some bread dough. Using a farinograph - a piece of equipment that looks like a miniature mixing bowl with two paddles inside - the flour is mixed with water. The machine then turns the paddles, and the resulting mixture generates torque against those paddles, which measures water absorption and helps determine peak development time.&nbsp;

If dough breaks down after a certain amount of mixing time, it becomes very sticky and very soft and is virtually impossible to remove from the mixer. As a result, the goal of a baking process is to mix the dough to a nice, developed state where it will still retain gas throughout baking.&nbsp;

“From a baker’s standpoint, the baker is wanting to know - how much water can I potentially put into this flour? And then what is the mixability of it? How strong is it going to be? How long am I going to be able to mix it out?” Brower explained. “The farinograph is one piece of equipment that can allow us to give a heads up to those bakeries as well as in our own test baking scenario as to what the performance of that flour is going to be.”

After flour analysis, a sponge and dough process is used to test how the flour will turn into bread. Lab technicians take about 70 percent of the flour and mix it with yeast and water. The mix is put into a three-and-a-half-hour fermentation process, resulting in the “sponge” that can be tested - is it too soft? A little overhydrated? Underhydrated, dry and shaggy? Or just right?

“If you’re running a fermentation process, it gives you a really good look at that initial stability of a flour,” Brower said. “It also gives us a way to judge if we hit the correct absorption.”&nbsp;

After the sponge is tested, it’s time to add back in the remaining 30 percent of the flour, add shortening, sugar and salt and bring that back as a final dough. Then it is time to make a loaf of bread.&nbsp;

In a commercial bakery, loaves are made in an assembly line, not one at a time like at home. In a commercial setting, after bread leaves the mixing bowl, it must go through a sheeting process - a set of rollers that takes out air pockets and makes a smooth sheet of dough - and then divided and molded into individual loaves. This process puts stress on the dough, meaning it needs to be strong enough to maintain its shape and texture. The dough cannot mix and fall apart, or it messes up everything else down the line before it ever gets into an oven. All this to say, it requires high protein quality, not just content, to provide that strength.&nbsp;

“If you’re bulking up for weight training or something similar, you have to have that protein coming in so you can retain your strength,” Brower said. “And it’s very much the same with flour.”&nbsp;

Using a similar process, albeit on a smaller scale, lab technicians divide, sheet and mold the dough into loaves. From there, the dough is put in a pan, goes through a 60-minute proof time and then placed in the oven. Once the loaves are fully baked, they are cooled overnight and evaluated the next morning.&nbsp;

That evaluation includes measuring loaf volume and then slicing the bread to look at the texture of the crumb - important determinants of flour strength and how well it would perform in a commercial setting.&nbsp;

“We are trying to mimic that process as closely as we can because we want to simulate what they would potentially see in their system,” Brower said.&nbsp;

This whole process is repeated with every sample that comes into the lab - about 1,300 samples last year. The lab shares the results with mills as far away as Los Angeles, the Kansas farmers who sent in samples and university breeding programs - like K-State. The participation of wheat breeders is essential, especially since Grain Craft runs a preferred variety program for farmers.&nbsp;

“We couldn’t run a program like a preferred variety program without the cooperation from the breeders,” Brower said. “It’s so important that we have those samples coming in year after year because varieties are changing constantly. If those breeding programs are willing to work with us, it really does help us make decisions for what can go onto that preferred list.”

“It’s very important that those perform well for the farmers. We want to make sure that they have really good yield, quality, drought tolerance and pest resistance and all those things built in that are going to make it so the farmer can actually profit. But we also want to make sure that the quality is going to work out for our bakers.”

Learn more about Brower, the Grain Craft Innovation and Quality Lab and the importance of protein quality in the featured episode of "Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001NUk4-fb05wWDP0bDvyIxBY_68Ukq3WXurdNQPQhZWhfKM6SWuRLZRffUUeh5s15KRZn-lutI_V53rB35bo08I9RrqcYVP_oO78GqrEH-V9uad_dDi_vUkRMBX_7mRhwRMTgIWQISuK31RXne92C-cD8IYZ9hMfVw-fs1a9zaPQm_EB1gDgYNE9Al_QuP_vzBTDtlTAKC_xo9s0kRUzCHN-fJuu9rIqE_DGUDwGpea1U=&amp;c=_pWKjdHXeLEf4fKVZvjA5H3xhUWGUOuFIq4smi-FeRy8l13lPJP5FQ==&amp;ch=t-7PnynwnjX3e4_yLi316IbN3xAVeNhFKTvAmRC2DcuTIZr0tW7lGw==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726851175005.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>When the final fields are cut, the trucks empty, the bins full and the combines cleaned out, Kansas wheat farmers breathe a quick sigh of relief that harvest season is complete. But for Kathy Brower, lab manager for Grain Craft’s Innovation and Quality Lab, harvest is just the start of her busy season as she takes samples from those farmers and puts them to the test for how that wheat will perform in making a consistently good loaf of bread.&nbsp;“Grain Craft leads by example through educating their customers about wheat quality while communicating those needs back to wheat farmers and researchers,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice-president of research and operations, who interviewed Brower for an episode of the organization’s “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast. “That dialogue supports the advancement of wheat quality for the entire supply chain.”Grain Craft is the largest independent flour miller in the United States. The company has longstanding relationships with Kansas Wheat and Kansas State University. So when it came time in 2021 to establish a new laboratory focused on varietal research, there was little doubt an ideal location would be inside the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center on K-State’s north campus. Today, Grain Craft has 12 mills in the United States and the lab in Manhattan does the analysis for quite a few of them, especially for hard wheats destined for the bread industry.&nbsp;And who better to manage the lab than Brower, the daughter of a fifth-generation wheat farmer and K-State food science graduate with the experience needed to connect the dots between the wheat developed by breeding programs, the varieties planted each year and the final end-use quality of those kernels.&nbsp;“Having us here at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, we can bring in various tour groups, even famous football coaches like Bill Snyder,” Brower said. “I really love making that connection with people. We’ve even had some of the farmers come in and they’ve got to see their specific variety baked out in our process. It’s a tremendous opportunity to put those connections together.”&nbsp;While the lab’s work is never truly complete, their new crop testing starts as soon as producers begin wheat harvest. In mid-June, a company courier starts collecting samples from throughout the region, which are brought into the lab and tested. Mills, breeding programs and even individual farmers also send in samples. With kernels in hand, testing begins in the Grain Craft laboratory’s milling facility, where kernels are tempered, cleaned, processed and ground.&nbsp;The resulting flour moves into the company’s flour analysis lab. Grain samples are run through near infrared imaging (NIR), which measures both protein content and initial moisture ash - a common quality factor requested by millers.&nbsp;“Ash is the mineral left behind after you’ve burned off all the carbohydrates and all the protein,” Brower said. “If you have that outer layer of the kernel, that outer layer contains a lot of mineral content in it. When we’re putting something through the mill - grinding - that part is always going to be present within the flour itself. If we know our ash content, we can get a good idea of how well we’re grinding.”After initial testing, it is time to make some bread dough. Using a farinograph - a piece of equipment that looks like a miniature mixing bowl with two paddles inside - the flour is mixed with water. The machine then turns the paddles, and the resulting mixture generates torque against those paddles, which measures water absorption and helps determine peak development time.&nbsp;If dough breaks down after a certain amount of mixing time, it becomes very sticky and very soft and is virtually impossible to remove from the mixer. As a result, the goal of a baking process is to mix the dough to a nice, developed state where it will still retain gas throughout baking.&nbsp;“From a baker’s standpoint, the baker is wanting to know - how much water can I potentially put into this flour? And then what is the mixability of it? How strong is it going to be? How long am I going to be able to mix it out?” Brower explained. “The farinograph is one piece of equipment that can allow us to give a heads up to those bakeries as well as in our own test baking scenario as to what the performance of that flour is going to be.”After flour analysis, a sponge and dough process is used to test how the flour will turn into bread. Lab technicians take about 70 percent of the flour and mix it with yeast and water. The mix is put into a three-and-a-half-hour fermentation process, resulting in the “sponge” that can be tested - is it too soft? A little overhydrated? Underhydrated, dry and shaggy? Or just right?“If you’re running a fermentation process, it gives you a really good look at that initial stability of a flour,” Brower said. “It also gives us a way to judge if we hit the correct absorption.”&nbsp;After the sponge is tested, it’s time to add back in the remaining 30 percent of the flour, add shortening, sugar and salt and bring that back as a final dough. Then it is time to make a loaf of bread.&nbsp;In a commercial bakery, loaves are made in an assembly line, not one at a time like at home. In a commercial setting, after bread leaves the mixing bowl, it must go through a sheeting process - a set of rollers that takes out air pockets and makes a smooth sheet of dough - and then divided and molded into individual loaves. This process puts stress on the dough, meaning it needs to be strong enough to maintain its shape and texture. The dough cannot mix and fall apart, or it messes up everything else down the line before it ever gets into an oven. All this to say, it requires high protein quality, not just content, to provide that strength.&nbsp;“If you’re bulking up for weight training or something similar, you have to have that protein coming in so you can retain your strength,” Brower said. “And it’s very much the same with flour.”&nbsp;Using a similar process, albeit on a smaller scale, lab technicians divide, sheet and mold the dough into loaves. From there, the dough is put in a pan, goes through a 60-minute proof time and then placed in the oven. Once the loaves are fully baked, they are cooled overnight and evaluated the next morning.&nbsp;That evaluation includes measuring loaf volume and then slicing the bread to look at the texture of the crumb - important determinants of flour strength and how well it would perform in a commercial setting.&nbsp;“We are trying to mimic that process as closely as we can because we want to simulate what they would potentially see in their system,” Brower said.&nbsp;This whole process is repeated with every sample that comes into the lab - about 1,300 samples last year. The lab shares the results with mills as far away as Los Angeles, the Kansas farmers who sent in samples and university breeding programs - like K-State. The participation of wheat breeders is essential, especially since Grain Craft runs a preferred variety program for farmers.&nbsp;“We couldn’t run a program like a preferred variety program without the cooperation from the breeders,” Brower said. “It’s so important that we have those samples coming in year after year because varieties are changing constantly. If those breeding programs are willing to work with us, it really does help us make decisions for what can go onto that preferred list.”“It’s very important that those perform well for the farmers. We want to make sure that they have really good yield, quality, drought tolerance and pest resistance and all those things built in that are going to make it so the farmer can actually profit. But we also want to make sure that the quality is going to work out for our bakers.”Learn more about Brower, the Grain Craft Innovation and Quality Lab and the importance of protein quality in the featured episode of "Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001NUk4-fb05wWDP0bDvyIxBY_68Ukq3WXurdNQPQhZWhfKM6SWuRLZRffUUeh5s15KRZn-lutI_V53rB35bo08I9RrqcYVP_oO78GqrEH-V9uad_dDi_vUkRMBX_7mRhwRMTgIWQISuK31RXne92C-cD8IYZ9hMfVw-fs1a9zaPQm_EB1gDgYNE9Al_QuP_vzBTDtlTAKC_xo9s0kRUzCHN-fJuu9rIqE_DGUDwGpea1U=&amp;c=_pWKjdHXeLEf4fKVZvjA5H3xhUWGUOuFIq4smi-FeRy8l13lPJP5FQ==&amp;ch=t-7PnynwnjX3e4_yLi316IbN3xAVeNhFKTvAmRC2DcuTIZr0tW7lGw==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Putting KS wheat to the test for milling & baking 

News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 24 John P. Tretbar

The second most prolific crude-oil producing state in the US has canceled dozens of planned wastewater injection wells. New Mexico has been rattled by a string of felt earthquakes in recent months, and a new study has uncovered thousands of quakes that have gone un-felt and undetected. The state pulled the plug on 75 new disposal wells along its southern border with Texas. Operators planned to inject 2.3 million barrels of brine into the earth each day at the facilities. According to the report, an average of about four barrels of wastewater are produced with each barrel of oil extracted in New Mexico.

Russia is shipping black gold on blacklisted ships, in defiance of Western sanctions. Since April, Russian ports have loaded petroleum cargoes onto at least 17 ships that have been restricted by the West, according to Bloomberg ship-tracking data. Over the last several months Moscow appears to have ramped up its use of sanctioned vessels. A dozen of them took on cargoes of Russian crude and products in August and September, up from just one sanctioned ship noted in April.

The Energy Department reported another million barrels barrels in refills to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in the last two weeks. SPR inventories total 381 million barrels as of September 13. That's up more than 29 million barrels from a year ago. Reuters reports the administration will announce another six million barrels in refill purchases for delivery early next year.&nbsp; So far more than 50 million barrels have been added back into the SPR since the sale two years ago of more than 180 million barrels.

Commercial crude inventories dropped by 1.6 million barrels last week. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five year average for this time of year.US crude production drops slightly to 13,211,000 barrels per day. Since last October, weekly US crude-oil production has dropped below 13 million barrels per day only once, during a widespread winter weather event in January.

Crude oil imports outpaced exports by 1.7 million barrels per day last week. Petroleum product imports lagged behind exports by more than five million barrels.US crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels a day, down more than half a million barrels from last week. The four week average is down more than seven percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude imports are down nearly half a million barrels a day from a year ago, and nearly 200-thousand daily barrels from two years ago.

The government reports crude exports of more than 4.5 million barrels a day, up nearly 1.3 million from a week ago but down half a million daily barrels from a year ago.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down one gas rig for a total of 588 nationwide. The tally in Texas was up two rigs from a week ago, while New Mexico, Louisiana, Utah and Colorado were each down one rig.

The Kansas Rig Count From Independent Oil And Gas Service shows nine active rigs in eastern Kansas, down two, and 13 west of Wichita, which is unchanged. The tally is down 8% on the week, down 31% from a month ago, and down 39% from a year ago.

Kansas regulators okayed 19 new drilling locations last week, with 8 in Western Kansas, including two new drilling locations in Stafford County. That’s 752 permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 23 new well completions, with 13 in Western Kansas, with one in Ellis County. That’s 964 completions so far this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 24 John P. TretbarThe second most prolific crude-oil producing state in the US has canceled dozens of planned wastewater injection wells. New Mexico has been rattled by a string of felt earthquakes in recent months, and a new study has uncovered thousands of quakes that have gone un-felt and undetected. The state pulled the plug on 75 new disposal wells along its southern border with Texas. Operators planned to inject 2.3 million barrels of brine into the earth each day at the facilities. According to the report, an average of about four barrels of wastewater are produced with each barrel of oil extracted in New Mexico.Russia is shipping black gold on blacklisted ships, in defiance of Western sanctions. Since April, Russian ports have loaded petroleum cargoes onto at least 17 ships that have been restricted by the West, according to Bloomberg ship-tracking data. Over the last several months Moscow appears to have ramped up its use of sanctioned vessels. A dozen of them took on cargoes of Russian crude and products in August and September, up from just one sanctioned ship noted in April.The Energy Department reported another million barrels barrels in refills to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in the last two weeks. SPR inventories total 381 million barrels as of September 13. That's up more than 29 million barrels from a year ago. Reuters reports the administration will announce another six million barrels in refill purchases for delivery early next year.&nbsp; So far more than 50 million barrels have been added back into the SPR since the sale two years ago of more than 180 million barrels.Commercial crude inventories dropped by 1.6 million barrels last week. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five year average for this time of year.US crude production drops slightly to 13,211,000 barrels per day. Since last October, weekly US crude-oil production has dropped below 13 million barrels per day only once, during a widespread winter weather event in January.Crude oil imports outpaced exports by 1.7 million barrels per day last week. Petroleum product imports lagged behind exports by more than five million barrels.US crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels a day, down more than half a million barrels from last week. The four week average is down more than seven percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude imports are down nearly half a million barrels a day from a year ago, and nearly 200-thousand daily barrels from two years ago.The government reports crude exports of more than 4.5 million barrels a day, up nearly 1.3 million from a week ago but down half a million daily barrels from a year ago.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down one gas rig for a total of 588 nationwide. The tally in Texas was up two rigs from a week ago, while New Mexico, Louisiana, Utah and Colorado were each down one rig.The Kansas Rig Count From Independent Oil And Gas Service shows nine active rigs in eastern Kansas, down two, and 13 west of Wichita, which is unchanged. The tally is down 8% on the week, down 31% from a month ago, and down 39% from a year ago.Kansas regulators okayed 19 new drilling locations last week, with 8 in Western Kansas, including two new drilling locations in Stafford County. That’s 752 permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 23 new well completions, with 13 in Western Kansas, with one in Ellis County. That’s 964 completions so far this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: New Mexico/Permian disposal wells nixed after earthquakes

School districts across Kansas have been dealing with threats in recent days. USD 428 Great Bend got involved Tuesday. Great Bend Middle School Principal Myron Ellegood released the following message to the guardians of all GBMS students:

The school and district administration are aware of a rumored social media threat involving our school. Please know that this situation has been and continues to be thoroughly investigated, with our School Resource Officer on-site assisting in the matter. At this time, no credible evidence has been found to substantiate the threat, and there is no cause for concern.

The safety of our students remains our top priority, and we will continue to monitor and look into this situation. As always, we encourage students, families, and staff to contact us.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely, Myron Ellegood Principal Great Bend Middle School

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633764520123.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>School districts across Kansas have been dealing with threats in recent days. USD 428 Great Bend got involved Tuesday. Great Bend Middle School Principal Myron Ellegood released the following message to the guardians of all GBMS students:Dear GBMS Families,The school and district administration are aware of a rumored social media threat involving our school. Please know that this situation has been and continues to be thoroughly investigated, with our School Resource Officer on-site assisting in the matter. At this time, no credible evidence has been found to substantiate the threat, and there is no cause for concern.The safety of our students remains our top priority, and we will continue to monitor and look into this situation. As always, we encourage students, families, and staff to contact us.Thank you for your understanding and support.Sincerely, Myron Ellegood Principal Great Bend Middle School

USD 428: No cause for concern after rumored threat at Great Bend Middle School

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend City Council gave property owner Tom Pearson until
Oct. 20 to make repairs to the house at 2521 12th
Street. An investigation was conducted from the public right-of-way by Great
Bend Building Official Matt Schafer where several deficiencies were identified.


City Administrator Logan Burns said the city’s main focus is to board up the
broken windows on the dangerous structure.


"Two windows on the west side still have remnants of broken glass hanging in the window frames," said Burns. "Due to the condition of the windows, this property is not secure from entry, creating a hazard to the public and any curious passerby. The roof has sections of asphalt shingles that are missing, exposing the structure to the elements."

Burns added progress is being made by the owner to repair the structure, but
the house is not up to code yet.


"Matt was able to confirm that the house currently has no utilities, which would create an unsanitary condition," Burns added.

The city council passed a resolution to give Pearson until Oct. 20 to remedy the issues or the city will be authorized to repair or destroy the
house.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723129399581.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend City Council gave property owner Tom Pearson until
Oct. 20 to make repairs to the house at 2521 12th
Street. An investigation was conducted from the public right-of-way by Great
Bend Building Official Matt Schafer where several deficiencies were identified.
City Administrator Logan Burns said the city’s main focus is to board up the
broken windows on the dangerous structure.
"Two windows on the west side still have remnants of broken glass hanging in the window frames," said Burns. "Due to the condition of the windows, this property is not secure from entry, creating a hazard to the public and any curious passerby. The roof has sections of asphalt shingles that are missing, exposing the structure to the elements."Burns added progress is being made by the owner to repair the structure, but
the house is not up to code yet.
"Matt was able to confirm that the house currently has no utilities, which would create an unsanitary condition," Burns added.The city council passed a resolution to give Pearson until Oct. 20 to remedy the issues or the city will be authorized to repair or destroy the
house.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend tracking dangerous structure on 12th Street

Parenting is difficult to navigate, but small habits can make a tremendous difference. For example, including family meals in your routine can boost children’s self-esteem and academic performance. It can even improve heart health, and reduce the risk of depression, substance misuse, and teen pregnancy. According to Harvard research, one hour a day of genuine connection at dinner can improve the physical and mental health of the whole family!

In fact, over three decades of research shows that family mealtime is the only activity that simultaneously supports physical, social-emotional, and academic well-being.

1. Children who regularly eat family dinners eat more fruits and vegetables and are less likely to be picky eaters. This not only helps them to develop strong bones and grow tall, but it also promotes healthy habits into adulthood. Teens who eat family meals reduce their risk of obesity and are more likely to choose nutritious foods once they are independent.

2. Creating strong connections over family mealtime helps to improve communication, boost resilience, and increase self-esteem. Plus, high-risk teenage behaviors such as smoking, drug use, eating disorders, and sexual activity are shown to be lowered with regular family dinners.

3. Conversations around the dinner table boost vocabulary in young children. In fact, children can learn seven times as many rare words at family meals than being read to. In

adolescents, those who eat family meals 5-7 times per week are twice as likely to achieve A’s than those who eat family meals 2 times or less per week.

As you can see, family dinners can shape a child and how they respond to the world around them. However, making time for family dinners is challenging. After-school activities and evening work schedules tend to get in the way. To overcome these barriers, be creative! Make time for a family brunch on Saturdays or plan specific evenings to gather around the table.

If you want to learn more about the impact of family meals, celebrate Eat Better, Eat Together month with the Cottonwood Extension District and Gambino’s Pizza! This event welcomes families to choose ingredients from the MyPlate food groups to make a pizza to take home, bake, and enjoy eating together. Each large pizza is only $5 and pre-registration is required. Pay by September 27th at the Barton County Cottonwood District Extension Office, 3007 10th St, Great Bend, KS 67530. Cash or check is accepted.

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>Parenting is difficult to navigate, but small habits can make a tremendous difference. For example, including family meals in your routine can boost children’s self-esteem and academic performance. It can even improve heart health, and reduce the risk of depression, substance misuse, and teen pregnancy. According to Harvard research, one hour a day of genuine connection at dinner can improve the physical and mental health of the whole family!In fact, over three decades of research shows that family mealtime is the only activity that simultaneously supports physical, social-emotional, and academic well-being.1. Children who regularly eat family dinners eat more fruits and vegetables and are less likely to be picky eaters. This not only helps them to develop strong bones and grow tall, but it also promotes healthy habits into adulthood. Teens who eat family meals reduce their risk of obesity and are more likely to choose nutritious foods once they are independent.2. Creating strong connections over family mealtime helps to improve communication, boost resilience, and increase self-esteem. Plus, high-risk teenage behaviors such as smoking, drug use, eating disorders, and sexual activity are shown to be lowered with regular family dinners.3. Conversations around the dinner table boost vocabulary in young children. In fact, children can learn seven times as many rare words at family meals than being read to. Inadolescents, those who eat family meals 5-7 times per week are twice as likely to achieve A’s than those who eat family meals 2 times or less per week.As you can see, family dinners can shape a child and how they respond to the world around them. However, making time for family dinners is challenging. After-school activities and evening work schedules tend to get in the way. To overcome these barriers, be creative! Make time for a family brunch on Saturdays or plan specific evenings to gather around the table.If you want to learn more about the impact of family meals, celebrate Eat Better, Eat Together month with the Cottonwood Extension District and Gambino’s Pizza! This event welcomes families to choose ingredients from the MyPlate food groups to make a pizza to take home, bake, and enjoy eating together. Each large pizza is only $5 and pre-registration is required. Pay by September 27th at the Barton County Cottonwood District Extension Office, 3007 10th St, Great Bend, KS 67530. Cash or check is accepted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727101175535.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>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: Eat better, eat together

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, Sept. 24 - 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts Building

1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will call the meeting to order.

3. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will invite public comments.

4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Marcus Garstecki, President will provide introductions for recognition of new personnel and guests.

5. BOARD MONITORING REPORT – END 1: FUNDAMENTAL SKILLS &nbsp; &nbsp;Melissa Feist, Coordinator of Adult Education; Jo Harrington, Coordinator of Assessment and Instructor of Mathematics; and Stephaine Joiner, Executive Director of Foundational Education will give this report.

6. CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER (CDC) &nbsp; &nbsp;Larissa Graham, Director of the Child Development Center will give this presentation.

7. FOUNDATION REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;Lindsey Bogner, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement will give the report.

8. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Medical Laboratory Assistant Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c. BOT Meeting Minutes of August 27, 2024

9. INCIDENTAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS &nbsp; &nbsp;a. President’s Report of Monthly Activities &nbsp; &nbsp;b. KACC/Board Chair Report by Mike Johnson, Board Chair &nbsp; &nbsp;c. KBOR Update by Marcus Garstecki, President &nbsp; &nbsp;d. Upcoming Events &nbsp; &nbsp;e. Miscellaneous

10. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;In compliance with KSA 75-4319, the Board will recess to executive session, if needed, in compliance with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.

11. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will again invite public comments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, Sept. 24 - 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts BuildingAgenda1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will call the meeting to order.2. OFFICIAL BOARD MEETINGS3. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will invite public comments.4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Marcus Garstecki, President will provide introductions for recognition of new personnel and guests.5. BOARD MONITORING REPORT – END 1: FUNDAMENTAL SKILLS &nbsp; &nbsp;Melissa Feist, Coordinator of Adult Education; Jo Harrington, Coordinator of Assessment and Instructor of Mathematics; and Stephaine Joiner, Executive Director of Foundational Education will give this report.6. CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER (CDC) &nbsp; &nbsp;Larissa Graham, Director of the Child Development Center will give this presentation.7. FOUNDATION REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;Lindsey Bogner, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement will give the report.8. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Medical Laboratory Assistant Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c. BOT Meeting Minutes of August 27, 20249. INCIDENTAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS &nbsp; &nbsp;a. President’s Report of Monthly Activities &nbsp; &nbsp;b. KACC/Board Chair Report by Mike Johnson, Board Chair &nbsp; &nbsp;c. KBOR Update by Marcus Garstecki, President &nbsp; &nbsp;d. Upcoming Events &nbsp; &nbsp;e. Miscellaneous10. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;In compliance with KSA 75-4319, the Board will recess to executive session, if needed, in compliance with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.11. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will again invite public comments.12. ADJOURNMENT

Barton CC Trustees meeting agenda (9/24)

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/23)

At 5:56 a.m. an accident was reported at W. Barton County
Road &amp; NW 60.

At 9:40 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 773 NW 160
Road in Olmitz.

At 11:55 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; NE 160 Avenue.

At 5:08 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 60 Road.

At 5:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 7th
&amp; Main.

At 7:38 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Grant.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/23)

At 10:14 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 1701 Lakin.

At 10:36 a.m. smoke coming from the building was reported at
2600 Adams. It was construction dust.

At 11:08 a.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at Lakin
&amp; Van Buren.

At 2:23 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 3700
block of 8th Street.

At 5:12 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th
&amp; Main.

At 5:20 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2538 6th
Street.

At 7:05 p.m. a vehicle illegally parked was reported at 2nd
&amp; Main.

At 9:49 p.m. possible shots fired at the river was reported
at 2nd &amp; Frey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/23)Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:56 a.m. an accident was reported at W. Barton County
Road &amp; NW 60.Cattle OutAt 9:40 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 773 NW 160
Road in Olmitz.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:55 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; NE 160 Avenue.At 5:08 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 60 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 7th
&amp; Main.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 7:38 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Grant.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/23)Animal ComplaintAt 10:14 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 1701 Lakin.Structure FireAt 10:36 a.m. smoke coming from the building was reported at
2600 Adams. It was construction dust.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:08 a.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at Lakin
&amp; Van Buren.At 2:23 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 3700
block of 8th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:12 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th
&amp; Main.Heart ProblemsAt 5:20 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2538 6th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 7th
&amp; Main.Parking ComplaintAt 7:05 p.m. a vehicle illegally parked was reported at 2nd
&amp; Main.Shots FiredAt 9:49 p.m. possible shots fired at the river was reported
at 2nd &amp; Frey.

Cop Shop (9/23)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In a pair of meetings earlier this year, the Barton County Commission approved purchases for the Road and Bridge Department. Tuesday morning, the board heard from Road and Bridge Interim Director Chris Schartz with an update on those expenditures. The first dates all the way back to the winter when the county approved a cold mix asphalt contract.

"On March 5, it was approved to purchase the cold mix from Venture Corporation at $9.60 per ton," Schartz said. "The final accounting of that would have been around $192,000. We got a bill from Venture and they actually made 20,432 tons, which would be an overage of $4,174.20."

The original contract called for 20,000 tons. Schartz said the county will utilize the additional 432 tons and he understands it can be difficult to create exactly 20,000 tons of the mix. 

In August, the commission approved the purchase of a 2024 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab 4x4 pickup from Marmie Motors for $46,784 for the Noxious Weed Department. Tuesday, the board approved an additional $5,300 to add a bed to the truck. Sunflower Trailer Sales was awarded the contract after submitting the low bid.

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn a pair of meetings earlier this year, the Barton County Commission approved purchases for the Road and Bridge Department. Tuesday morning, the board heard from Road and Bridge Interim Director Chris Schartz with an update on those expenditures. The first dates all the way back to the winter when the county approved a cold mix asphalt contract."On March 5, it was approved to purchase the cold mix from Venture Corporation at $9.60 per ton," Schartz said. "The final accounting of that would have been around $192,000. We got a bill from Venture and they actually made 20,432 tons, which would be an overage of $4,174.20."The original contract called for 20,000 tons. Schartz said the county will utilize the additional 432 tons and he understands it can be difficult to create exactly 20,000 tons of the mix. In August, the commission approved the purchase of a 2024 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab 4x4 pickup from Marmie Motors for $46,784 for the Noxious Weed Department. Tuesday, the board approved an additional $5,300 to add a bed to the truck. Sunflower Trailer Sales was awarded the contract after submitting the low bid.

Barton Commission approves pair of addendums to Road and Bridge expenses

9/23 BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Tyler Epp on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Brittney Collins on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Mistreatment of Dependent Adult or Elder Person and Theft of Property &lt;$1,500, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court warrant for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, on $40,000 OR bond, and on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, on a $5,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Katana Schwedes on Barton County District Court warrant for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Tyler Epp on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Peter Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

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

RELEASED: Abdullahi Mohamed on Stafford County District Court case for No Driver's License, No Interlock, and Speeding, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Becky's Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/23 BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Tyler Epp on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Lisa Viegra on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Brittney Collins on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Mistreatment of Dependent Adult or Elder Person and Theft of Property &lt;$1,500, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court warrant for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, on $40,000 OR bond, and on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, on a $5,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Katana Schwedes on Barton County District Court warrant for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Tyler Epp on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Peter Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: Lisa Viegra on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Abdullahi Mohamed on Stafford County District Court case for No Driver's License, No Interlock, and Speeding, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Becky's Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (9/23)

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first of two stories about truancy in the 20th Judicial District.

The last time Juvenile Services (JS) had funding that focused on truancy at local and area schools was in 2013.

As a result, there has been no effective way for JS to tackle this important issue head-on, said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director. She, her colleagues and school officials hope to change this situation.

Woodmansee intends to apply for a state grant that might alleviate the problem of truancy, which is a concern in the five counties that JS serves in the 20th Judicial District – Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford.

“Without funding, the questions have become ‘who can help with this issue? Who will identify the needs and propose a solution?’ If we don’t address these questions, we will see the consequences in other areas of Juvenile Services.”

In addition to seeking the grant from the Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Woodmansee is talking with personnel at school districts, the JS advisory board, district courts and the Kansas Department for Children and Families, as well as the county attorney and defense attorneys.

She has her fingers tightly crossed for funding to employ a person that deals only with truancy. The grant would finance a salary, training, educational materials and more.

Truancy is a local and state problem, Woodmansee said, noting causes include poverty and addiction, and parents not knowing who to call for help.

“But the underlying fear in many cases is that their kids will be taken away,” she noted. “Families need to realize we are not in the business of removing kids from their homes unless we are talking about severe problems and safety issues.

“We don’t want to raise your kids. We want to give you the tools to do that on your own safely.”

Previously, funding came from the Kansas Department of Children and Families. It was used to support Project S.T.A.Y., School Truancy Alternatives for Youth.

“This was developed by my predecessor and they had success with it,” Woodmansee recalled. “We need new tools to have a chance to enjoy some success in the future.”

In Kansas, officials use the 3-5-7 truancy guideline. This refers to three consecutive unexcused absences, five unexcused absences in a semester or seven unexcused absences in a school year, whichever occurs first.

“I am happy to say all the school districts in our five counties go above and beyond to help students and families,” Woodmansee said. “However, when a school has tried everything and can’t get a handle on it, Juvenile Services could be another option.

“Sometimes schools could use some outside help. We want to be that outside help for at-risk kids.”

A Citizen Review Board (CRB) could be part of the solution, Woodmansee noted. CRB members are community volunteers that review truancy and other juvenile issues.

“A Citizen Review Board can refer a juvenile truancy case to the court system,” Woodmansee explained. “This makes the case more official; it has some teeth to it.

“We are exploring this option with the help of Russell County, where a CRB exists now. The goal is to expand into the rest of our service area.”

In general, CRB members review cases, talk with the parties involved, and suggest in-house solutions or make recommendations to the court system.

“The CRB can go through the courts where there is more oversight,” Woodmansee said. “If the family doesn’t comply, they could be held in contempt.

“We get good cooperation from most families,” she added. “But if we need a higher threshold of accountability, we would like the option of a CRB.”

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="Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services" />
 <figcaption>Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services</figcaption>
 </figure>EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first of two stories about truancy in the 20th Judicial District.The last time Juvenile Services (JS) had funding that focused on truancy at local and area schools was in 2013.As a result, there has been no effective way for JS to tackle this important issue head-on, said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director. She, her colleagues and school officials hope to change this situation.Woodmansee intends to apply for a state grant that might alleviate the problem of truancy, which is a concern in the five counties that JS serves in the 20th Judicial District – Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford.“Without funding, the questions have become ‘who can help with this issue? Who will identify the needs and propose a solution?’ If we don’t address these questions, we will see the consequences in other areas of Juvenile Services.”In addition to seeking the grant from the Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Woodmansee is talking with personnel at school districts, the JS advisory board, district courts and the Kansas Department for Children and Families, as well as the county attorney and defense attorneys.She has her fingers tightly crossed for funding to employ a person that deals only with truancy. The grant would finance a salary, training, educational materials and more.Truancy is a local and state problem, Woodmansee said, noting causes include poverty and addiction, and parents not knowing who to call for help.“But the underlying fear in many cases is that their kids will be taken away,” she noted. “Families need to realize we are not in the business of removing kids from their homes unless we are talking about severe problems and safety issues.“We don’t want to raise your kids. We want to give you the tools to do that on your own safely.”Previously, funding came from the Kansas Department of Children and Families. It was used to support Project S.T.A.Y., School Truancy Alternatives for Youth.“This was developed by my predecessor and they had success with it,” Woodmansee recalled. “We need new tools to have a chance to enjoy some success in the future.”In Kansas, officials use the 3-5-7 truancy guideline. This refers to three consecutive unexcused absences, five unexcused absences in a semester or seven unexcused absences in a school year, whichever occurs first.“I am happy to say all the school districts in our five counties go above and beyond to help students and families,” Woodmansee said. “However, when a school has tried everything and can’t get a handle on it, Juvenile Services could be another option.“Sometimes schools could use some outside help. We want to be that outside help for at-risk kids.”Citizen Review BoardA Citizen Review Board (CRB) could be part of the solution, Woodmansee noted. CRB members are community volunteers that review truancy and other juvenile issues.“A Citizen Review Board can refer a juvenile truancy case to the court system,” Woodmansee explained. “This makes the case more official; it has some teeth to it.“We are exploring this option with the help of Russell County, where a CRB exists now. The goal is to expand into the rest of our service area.”In general, CRB members review cases, talk with the parties involved, and suggest in-house solutions or make recommendations to the court system.“The CRB can go through the courts where there is more oversight,” Woodmansee said. “If the family doesn’t comply, they could be held in contempt.“We get good cooperation from most families,” she added. “But if we need a higher threshold of accountability, we would like the option of a CRB.”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 seeks funding to zero in on truancy problem

The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) is excited
to invite the public to a special Community Paint Party as part of their latest
mural project at the Barton County Health Department! This unique opportunity
will allow community members to make their mark on Barton County’s newest
mural, celebrating healthcare heroes and wellness initiatives.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Saturday, Sept. 28

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
1300 Kansas Ave, Great Bend, KS

Local artists Jessica Kerr and Taylor
Carr, the talented duo behind the mural’s design, will be on-site to guide
volunteers through the painting process. No artistic experience is needed—just
bring your enthusiasm and creativity! Children under 16 are welcome to
participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

"We're thrilled to involve the
community in this mural," said Andrea Bauer, BAM Chair. "This project
isn’t just about creating a beautiful piece of art, it’s about bringing people
together to celebrate the healthcare workers who have given so much to our
community. Every brushstroke added by our volunteers will carry a piece of
their spirit and appreciation."

Whether you’re an experienced artist or
just looking to contribute to a meaningful project, this event is open to all.
Come join the fun, connect with your neighbors, and help transform the Barton
County Health Department into a colorful tribute to the resilience and
dedication of healthcare workers.

This project is made possible by funding
from the Kansas Arts Commission, the Golden Belt Community Foundation, and
numerous community donors.

For more information on the event or how
you can support future BAM projects, please visit the Barton Arts Movement’s
Facebook page or email <a href="mailto:bartonartsmovement@gmail.com">bartonartsmovement@gmail.com</a>.

About
Barton Arts Movement (BAM):
BAM is a grass-roots, volunteer team dedicated to
creating community pride through public art. By collaborating with local and
regional artists, BAM aims to create vibrant, meaningful works that inspire and
uplift the community. Learn more at <a href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727118972780.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) is excited
to invite the public to a special Community Paint Party as part of their latest
mural project at the Barton County Health Department! This unique opportunity
will allow community members to make their mark on Barton County’s newest
mural, celebrating healthcare heroes and wellness initiatives.Event Details:●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Saturday, Sept. 28●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
1300 Kansas Ave, Great Bend, KSLocal artists Jessica Kerr and Taylor
Carr, the talented duo behind the mural’s design, will be on-site to guide
volunteers through the painting process. No artistic experience is needed—just
bring your enthusiasm and creativity! Children under 16 are welcome to
participate but must be accompanied by an adult."We're thrilled to involve the
community in this mural," said Andrea Bauer, BAM Chair. "This project
isn’t just about creating a beautiful piece of art, it’s about bringing people
together to celebrate the healthcare workers who have given so much to our
community. Every brushstroke added by our volunteers will carry a piece of
their spirit and appreciation."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727119002787.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Whether you’re an experienced artist or
just looking to contribute to a meaningful project, this event is open to all.
Come join the fun, connect with your neighbors, and help transform the Barton
County Health Department into a colorful tribute to the resilience and
dedication of healthcare workers.This project is made possible by funding
from the Kansas Arts Commission, the Golden Belt Community Foundation, and
numerous community donors.For more information on the event or how
you can support future BAM projects, please visit the Barton Arts Movement’s
Facebook page or email <a href="mailto:bartonartsmovement@gmail.com">bartonartsmovement@gmail.com</a>.About
Barton Arts Movement (BAM):
BAM is a grass-roots, volunteer team dedicated to
creating community pride through public art. By collaborating with local and
regional artists, BAM aims to create vibrant, meaningful works that inspire and
uplift the community. Learn more at <a href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727119022275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Community invited to help paint new mural at Barton Co. Health Dept.

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 77. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 51. Northwest wind 3 to 8 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 79. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51. East wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming east-southeast 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 79.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

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

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 77. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 51. Northwest wind 3 to 8 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 79. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51. East wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the evening.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming east-southeast 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 79.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.Monday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

Resurfacing will start soon on U.S. 281 in Barton and Stafford counties. This is a continuation of a Kansas Department of Transportation resurfacing project, and it involves a mill and overlay on U.S. 281 from the K-19 junction in Stafford County to Southeast 30th&nbsp;Road in Barton County. The length is about 11 miles. The work is expected to begin around Oct. 7 and be completed around Oct. 31. During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car, and motorists should be prepared to stop and expect delays of up to 15 minutes. The map below shows the approximate project location, marked in red. Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the project. For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

Resurfacing will start soon on U.S. 281 in Barton and Stafford counties. This is a continuation of a Kansas Department of Transportation resurfacing project, and it involves a mill and overlay on U.S. 281 from the K-19 junction in Stafford County to Southeast 30th&nbsp;Road in Barton County. The length is about 11 miles. The work is expected to begin around Oct. 7 and be completed around Oct. 31. During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car, and motorists should be prepared to stop and expect delays of up to 15 minutes. The map below shows the approximate project location, marked in red. Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the project. For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<figure>
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U.S. 281 resurfacing set in Barton, Stafford counties

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Monday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp;Stegman, 39, Richardson, Texas, was eastbound on U.S. 54 just west of Kansas 61 at a high rate of speed. 

The driver swerved to miss another vehicle and lost control of the car. The vehicle struck a curb, overturned and came to rest against semi legally parked and unoccupied in the Southwest Truck Parts lot.

EMS transported Stegman to a Wichita hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Monday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp;Stegman, 39, Richardson, Texas, was eastbound on U.S. 54 just west of Kansas 61 at a high rate of speed. The driver swerved to miss another vehicle and lost control of the car. The vehicle struck a curb, overturned and came to rest against semi legally parked and unoccupied in the Southwest Truck Parts lot.EMS transported Stegman to a Wichita hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after Pratt County rollover accident

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/3T4o4Ct. 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 Sept. 24 9 a.m. Until Close

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 September 17, 2024, 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. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of September 10, 2024, and ending September 24, 2024.

III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. JUVENILE SERVICES: Request for Proposal – Juvenile Services Fleet Insurance: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will present details. Juvenile Services released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for fleet insurance with an August 26, 2024, deadline. The RFP called for coverage for four (4) vehicles and 17 staff members, traveling in a five-county area, transporting youth and families, as well as other business travel.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. NOXIOUS WEED: Request for Proposal – Noxious Weed Pickup Bed Bid: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Schartz, Interim County Works Director, will provide details. On August 13, 2024, the Commission purchased a 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab from Marmie Motors to replace a 1995 Ford F250 XL at Noxious Weed. On August 29, 2024, Noxious Weed released a pickup bed bid to two vendors – BS Trailer Sales, Inc and Sunflower Trailer Sales, Inc. Mr. Schartz will ask that the Commission award the bid in the best interest of the County.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. ROAD AND BRIDGE: 2024 Cold Mix Asphalt – Ratify Overage: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Schartz will provide details. The Road and Bridge Department accepted bids until February 22, 2024, for the 2024 Cold Mix Asphalt Contract. The bid specified mixing approximately 20,000 tons of cold mix asphalt material, with the County furnishing all aggregate and asphalt oil. Using the County specifications, the contractor will be required to mix asphalt at the South Washington pit. On March 5, 2024, the Commission approved the purchase of cold mix from Venture Corporation at $9.60 per ton. Final accounting of cold mix purchased shows an overage of $4,147.20 or approximately 432 tons. The Commission will be asked to ratify that expenditure.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld 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.

V. 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 – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717444362628.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/3T4o4Ct. 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 Sept. 24 9 a.m. Until CloseI. 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 September 17, 2024, 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. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of September 10, 2024, and ending September 24, 2024.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. JUVENILE SERVICES: Request for Proposal – Juvenile Services Fleet Insurance: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will present details. Juvenile Services released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for fleet insurance with an August 26, 2024, deadline. The RFP called for coverage for four (4) vehicles and 17 staff members, traveling in a five-county area, transporting youth and families, as well as other business travel.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. NOXIOUS WEED: Request for Proposal – Noxious Weed Pickup Bed Bid: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chris Schartz, Interim County Works Director, will provide details. On August 13, 2024, the Commission purchased a 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab from Marmie Motors to replace a 1995 Ford F250 XL at Noxious Weed. On August 29, 2024, Noxious Weed released a pickup bed bid to two vendors – BS Trailer Sales, Inc and Sunflower Trailer Sales, Inc. Mr. Schartz will ask that the Commission award the bid in the best interest of the County.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. ROAD AND BRIDGE: 2024 Cold Mix Asphalt – Ratify Overage: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Schartz will provide details. The Road and Bridge Department accepted bids until February 22, 2024, for the 2024 Cold Mix Asphalt Contract. The bid specified mixing approximately 20,000 tons of cold mix asphalt material, with the County furnishing all aggregate and asphalt oil. Using the County specifications, the contractor will be required to mix asphalt at the South Washington pit. On March 5, 2024, the Commission approved the purchase of cold mix from Venture Corporation at $9.60 per ton. Final accounting of cold mix purchased shows an overage of $4,147.20 or approximately 432 tons. The Commission will be asked to ratify that expenditure.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld 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.V. 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 – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Noon – Luncheon meeting with the County Clerk’s Office to discuss regular business.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1:00 p.m. – Insurance Review with Freedom Claims and Blue Cross / Blue Shield with County officials.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Juvenile Services Department are scheduled for September 26, 2024.VI. 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, October 1, 2024.VII. ADJOURN.