By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Winners of the Aug. 6 Primary Election have moved on to the Nov. 5 General Election. In Barton County, two candidates have announced write-in campaigns for the general election. During Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting, Clerk Bev Schmeidler pushed for a ban of stickers or labels on ballots.

"It's the practice of the clerk's office that a valid write-in vote must be handwritten and cast in its appropriate place on the ballot," she said. "The use of stickers and/or labels on the ballots for write-in voting purposes may cause a scanning equipment jam."

Election officials are not supposed to see a voter's choices and therefore cannot ensure that any stickers or labels are applied properly to avoid jamming machines. Jams could result in a manual count with higher costs and delay election results. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman, the longtime clerk before Schmeidler, said the county first adopted a similar policy in 2002, and put it on file with the secretary of state's office in 2004.

"I think the resolution just puts a little more teeth into it and gives us a chance to advertise that it does cause a problem with our tabulation systems," she said of Tuesday's decision to approve the resolution.

Kansas is an intent state, so names of write-in candidates do not have to be spelled correctly as long as election officials can determine the intent of the voter. Kate Wary has announced her write-in candidacy for 20th Judicial District Judge and Glennda French has announced her write-in candidacy for Barton County Register of Deeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712114185032.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWinners of the Aug. 6 Primary Election have moved on to the Nov. 5 General Election. In Barton County, two candidates have announced write-in campaigns for the general election. During Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting, Clerk Bev Schmeidler pushed for a ban of stickers or labels on ballots."It's the practice of the clerk's office that a valid write-in vote must be handwritten and cast in its appropriate place on the ballot," she said. "The use of stickers and/or labels on the ballots for write-in voting purposes may cause a scanning equipment jam."Election officials are not supposed to see a voter's choices and therefore cannot ensure that any stickers or labels are applied properly to avoid jamming machines. Jams could result in a manual count with higher costs and delay election results. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman, the longtime clerk before Schmeidler, said the county first adopted a similar policy in 2002, and put it on file with the secretary of state's office in 2004."I think the resolution just puts a little more teeth into it and gives us a chance to advertise that it does cause a problem with our tabulation systems," she said of Tuesday's decision to approve the resolution.Kansas is an intent state, so names of write-in candidates do not have to be spelled correctly as long as election officials can determine the intent of the voter. Kate Wary has announced her write-in candidacy for 20th Judicial District Judge and Glennda French has announced her write-in candidacy for Barton County Register of Deeds.

Barton Co. approves ban of stickers on ballots for write-in voting purposes

On Wednesday, Sept. 11, utilities crews will begin working on a service line leak at 10th&nbsp;and Frey. Work will involve reducing traffic for eastbound traffic.

Please be attentive and careful when driving in the area. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Jason Cauley, Director of Public Works, 620.793.4150 or Darren Doonan, Utilities Supervisor, (620) 793-4170, ddoonan@greatbendks.net.

From the City of Great Bend...On Wednesday, Sept. 11, utilities crews will begin working on a service line leak at 10th&nbsp;and Frey. Work will involve reducing traffic for eastbound traffic.Please be attentive and careful when driving in the area. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.If you have any questions or concerns, contact Jason Cauley, Director of Public Works, 620.793.4150 or Darren Doonan, Utilities Supervisor, (620) 793-4170, ddoonan@greatbendks.net.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Great Bend to work on leak at 10th & Frey

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

At 8:26 a.m. an accident was reported at SW 40 Road in
Pawnee Rock.

At 11:29 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.

At 1:56 p.m. the K-9 was called out to Forest &amp;
Washington.

At 3:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Patton Road.

At 5:34 p.m. a fire was reported at 304 E. K-4 Highway in
Hoisington.

At 6:03 p.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of E.
US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.

At 8:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at U.S. 281
Highway &amp; 60 Road.

At 9:04 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 134 on E. K-4
Highway in Claflin.

At 10:34 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 600
block of NE 160 Avenue in Claflin.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/9)

At 7:35 a.m. an accident was reported at 5229 Ridgeway Dr.

At 7:43 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 2200
block of Harrison.

At 10:03 a.m. being battered by a subject was reported at
3503 10th Street.

At 1:30 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at 3322
Railroad Avenue.

At 3:49 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 900
block of Macarthur Road.

At 4:13 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a building check at 2610
10th Street.

At 4:44 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at 24th
&amp; Coronado Avenue.

At 6:02 p.m. a sex offense was reported in the 5200 block of
10th Street.

At 6:15 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park.

At 7:20 p.m. a sex offense was reported in the 2200 block of
Madison Street.

At 7:36 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3208 Forest.

At 9:11 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.

At 10:06 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1520 Hubbard.

At 10:58 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 2712 17th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/9)Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:26 a.m. an accident was reported at SW 40 Road in
Pawnee Rock.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:29 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.K-9 Use / Call outAt 1:56 p.m. the K-9 was called out to Forest &amp;
Washington.At 3:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Patton Road.FireAt 5:34 p.m. a fire was reported at 304 E. K-4 Highway in
Hoisington.Injury AccidentAt 6:03 p.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of E.
US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at U.S. 281
Highway &amp; 60 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:04 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 134 on E. K-4
Highway in Claflin.Cattle OutAt 10:34 p.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 600
block of NE 160 Avenue in Claflin.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/9)Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:35 a.m. an accident was reported at 5229 Ridgeway Dr.Parking ComplaintAt 7:43 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 2200
block of Harrison.BatteryAt 10:03 a.m. being battered by a subject was reported at
3503 10th Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 1:30 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at 3322
Railroad Avenue.At 3:49 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 900
block of Macarthur Road.At 4:13 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a building check at 2610
10th Street.At 4:44 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop at 24th
&amp; Coronado Avenue.Sex OffenseAt 6:02 p.m. a sex offense was reported in the 5200 block of
10th Street.Medical AlarmAt 6:15 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park.Sex OffenseAt 7:20 p.m. a sex offense was reported in the 2200 block of
Madison Street.Chest PainAt 7:36 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3208 Forest.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:11 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.Diabetic ProblemsAt 10:06 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1520 Hubbard.Animal ComplaintAt 10:58 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 2712 17th
Street.

Cop Shop (9/9)

9/9 BOOKED: Randy Baker on Great Bend Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Ross Oeser on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Basic Speed, and Window Tint, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: John Debeau on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, per order of the court. Must report to probation immediately.

RELEASED: Richard Mason on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, per order of the court after time served.

RELEASED: Ross Oeser on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Basic Speed, and Window Tint, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Robert Kessinger on Barton County District Court case for Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility and Possession of Methamphetamine, on $50,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Charles Buck on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/9 BOOKED: Randy Baker on Great Bend Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Ross Oeser on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Basic Speed, and Window Tint, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: John Debeau on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, per order of the court. Must report to probation immediately.RELEASED: Richard Mason on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, per order of the court after time served.RELEASED: Ross Oeser on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Basic Speed, and Window Tint, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Robert Kessinger on Barton County District Court case for Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility and Possession of Methamphetamine, on $50,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Charles Buck on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

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

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Organized by the Kansas Department of Education for a number of years,
the Sunflower Summer app was designed to get citizens to explore Kansas with
free tickets to several attractions. Kansas Tourism took over the operation of
the app this year and saw great numbers make use of the app at museums, waterparks,
zoos and other destinations across the state. 

Great Bend Convention and
Visitors Bureau Director Christina Hayes said the Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark
received several positive Google reviews this summer from out-of-town visitors.


"Reviews included 'I love this waterpark,'" said Hayes. "It's my first time here but it won't be my last. Very good...my kids loved it...they met very nice lifeguards. Lots of great slides and well staffed. They have concessions and they are very reasonable and the price of admission is reasonable as well...will totally return."

The online app was available to all Kansas families with students pre-K through
12th grade and was open through Aug. 11. Users
checking in with the app were given free admission and then the Kansas Department
of Commerce reimbursed the attraction. 

The waterpark in Great Bend received
nearly $9,000 this summer from patrons using the app.


"If you have a chance to speak to legislators, you really have to push to keep the Sunflower Summer app because it is not budgeted for next year," said Hayes. "Kansas Tourism used all of the 2024 and 2025 allocation to make this app work this summer. It's going to cost significant amounts to continue this."

Along with the waterpark, the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo and Kansas Wetlands
Education Center (KWEC) were listed on the Sunflower Summer app. Despite being free
attractions already, each entity was given $5 for each person that checked in via the
app. The zoo was awarded $1,180. KWEC had nearly 600 people check in with the app.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718393280326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostOrganized by the Kansas Department of Education for a number of years,
the Sunflower Summer app was designed to get citizens to explore Kansas with
free tickets to several attractions. Kansas Tourism took over the operation of
the app this year and saw great numbers make use of the app at museums, waterparks,
zoos and other destinations across the state. Great Bend Convention and
Visitors Bureau Director Christina Hayes said the Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark
received several positive Google reviews this summer from out-of-town visitors.
"Reviews included 'I love this waterpark,'" said Hayes. "It's my first time here but it won't be my last. Very good...my kids loved it...they met very nice lifeguards. Lots of great slides and well staffed. They have concessions and they are very reasonable and the price of admission is reasonable as well...will totally return."The online app was available to all Kansas families with students pre-K through
12th grade and was open through Aug. 11. Users
checking in with the app were given free admission and then the Kansas Department
of Commerce reimbursed the attraction. The waterpark in Great Bend received
nearly $9,000 this summer from patrons using the app.
"If you have a chance to speak to legislators, you really have to push to keep the Sunflower Summer app because it is not budgeted for next year," said Hayes. "Kansas Tourism used all of the 2024 and 2025 allocation to make this app work this summer. It's going to cost significant amounts to continue this."Along with the waterpark, the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo and Kansas Wetlands
Education Center (KWEC) were listed on the Sunflower Summer app. Despite being free
attractions already, each entity was given $5 for each person that checked in via the
app. The zoo was awarded $1,180. KWEC had nearly 600 people check in with the app.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Great Bend waterpark reimbursed $9,000 from online summer app

Lacey Schofield grew up in the small town of Kiowa, just over 100 miles
south of Great Bend, near the Oklahoma border. Knowing she wanted to be in the
hotel and hospitality business, Schofield began working in the industry in
Hutchinson and Wichita. Schofield and her husband decided to open a restaurant
in Ellinwood, but had a change of mind after arriving. 

Putting her resume out
there, the late Loren Unruh hired her to become the manager at the Best Western
Angus Inn. Keeping a successful hotel over the years has been all about customer service and
treating her employees well.

"I practice the principle where you don't ever ask somebody to do something you're not willing to do yourself," said Schofield. "I try to walk the walk and talk the talk. I try to treat my employees like they are my family. We know each other's spouses and kids."

After 18 years with the hotel in Great Bend, Schofield is resigning to accept a position with the City of Ellinwood.

"It's going to feel really weird not driving to Great Bend everyday, but I'll still be close by," said Schofield. "I had the best mentor. I would not have been here without Loren. My life will look very different, but I want to thank everyone."

Unruh passed away in late 2022, but
Schofield learned the business side of the hotel industry and how to treat
people the right way from a man she considered to be a second father.


"I miss Loren dearly," said Schofield. "He was the best teacher, not just about business but about character too. He was so well respected."

Schofield’s final day at the hotel will be Sept. 16. Naran
Patel has moved with his family to become the next manager.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Naran will be great," said Schofield. "He's established in the hotel business. He really wants to be part of the community."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725893666657.jpeg" alt="Lacey Schofield (holding the plaque) was recognized by the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board for her service on the board. Schofield is resigning as manager of the Best Western Angus Inn after 18 years with the hotel." />
 <figcaption>Lacey Schofield (holding the plaque) was recognized by the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board for her service on the board. Schofield is resigning as manager of the Best Western Angus Inn after 18 years with the hotel.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLacey Schofield grew up in the small town of Kiowa, just over 100 miles
south of Great Bend, near the Oklahoma border. Knowing she wanted to be in the
hotel and hospitality business, Schofield began working in the industry in
Hutchinson and Wichita. Schofield and her husband decided to open a restaurant
in Ellinwood, but had a change of mind after arriving. Putting her resume out
there, the late Loren Unruh hired her to become the manager at the Best Western
Angus Inn. Keeping a successful hotel over the years has been all about customer service and
treating her employees well."I practice the principle where you don't ever ask somebody to do something you're not willing to do yourself," said Schofield. "I try to walk the walk and talk the talk. I try to treat my employees like they are my family. We know each other's spouses and kids."After 18 years with the hotel in Great Bend, Schofield is resigning to accept a position with the City of Ellinwood."It's going to feel really weird not driving to Great Bend everyday, but I'll still be close by," said Schofield. "I had the best mentor. I would not have been here without Loren. My life will look very different, but I want to thank everyone."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725893841558.jpeg" alt="Schofield (right) pictured with newly hired Best Western Angus Inn manager Naran Patel." />
 <figcaption>Schofield (right) pictured with newly hired Best Western Angus Inn manager Naran Patel.</figcaption>
 </figure>Unruh passed away in late 2022, but
Schofield learned the business side of the hotel industry and how to treat
people the right way from a man she considered to be a second father.
"I miss Loren dearly," said Schofield. "He was the best teacher, not just about business but about character too. He was so well respected."Schofield’s final day at the hotel will be Sept. 16. Naran
Patel has moved with his family to become the next manager.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"Naran will be great," said Schofield. "He's established in the hotel business. He really wants to be part of the community."<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Schofield stepping down after 18 years at Best Western hotel

Today Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South-southeast wind 9 to 11 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 60. South-southeast wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 85. South-southeast wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 60.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 86.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 87.

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

Monday Sunny, with a high near 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South-southeast wind 9 to 11 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 60. South-southeast wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 85. South-southeast wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 60.Friday Sunny, with a high near 86.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 87.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.Monday Sunny, with a high near 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

<a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON</a>&nbsp; Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Let’s go to Pennsylvania, where a much-needed equipment part is arriving at the factory. Remarkably, this unique part was 3D-printed by a custom machine shop halfway across the country in rural Kansas.

Today we’ll meet the innovative young engineer who engineered this part and created this remarkable business.

Eric Wagner is the founder and operator of Diamond W Custom Machine Works in Agra in northwest Kansas. Wagner grew up in Phillips County. His grandfather enjoyed antique tractors which required frequent maintenance and occasional repair.

“I spent countless hours in that shop working with my grandpa,” Wagner said.

Wagner earned a degree in mechanical engineering technology from K-State-Salina. In 2009, he took a job managing the machine shop for the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering at K-State’s main campus in Manhattan.

In that position, one of his responsibilities was to work with the engineering student design teams who did hands-on projects, such as building Baja off-road vehicles or the award-winning Powercat quarter-scale tractors.

“As an engineer, I got to help create those designs,” Wagner said. “I worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of great students and helped them get hands-on experience. I had a great job at K-State.”

After hours, he started working in his garage on projects of his own, such as 3D printing.

“I could program a design and then let my 3D printer run all night and all the next day while I was at work,” Wagner said.

He made lots of signs for various businesses. This led to his work in metal fabrication. In 2015, he formed his own LLC.

When the Covid pandemic hit, Wagner moved back home to Phillips County to work remotely. He enjoyed working in a small town and took a local engineering job. He also married Katie, who was working for a nearby hospital. When they had children, she transitioned to a remote work position.

“We teach them the importance of family and community,” Wagner said.

In 2023, Wagner went into the business full-time. Using his last initial, the business was named Diamond W Custom Machine Works. He established the business in his grandfather’s old shop.

The business did multiple projects for growing local enterprises. Wagner also found that the young student engineers with whom he had worked at K-State had gone on to related careers across the country, and they became customers.

“That’s a network that has spread all over the world,” Wagner said. “Many times, they will reach back out about a project. It’s neat to see how those relationships come back around.”

Today, Diamond W Custom Machine Works offers 3D printing, metal welding fabrication, engineering design, and CNC machining.

“I like to see projects through from start to finish,” Wagner said. “It’s fun to start with an engineering design, develop a prototype, and then see it through to the production of the finished product. I enjoy taking an idea from a sketch on a napkin to a manufacturable product.”

These capabilities create demand from research and development startups and manufacturers across the country. “No two days are the same,” Wagner said. “It’s fun to help others problem solve.”

His recent projects range from creating a stainless steel calibration table for an industrial plant, to making steel silhouettes of cowboys for display at the local rodeo grounds.

Wagner has engineered and created industrial machine parts for customers from coast to coast. It’s an impressive record for a business based in the rural community of Agra, population 208 people. Now, that’s rural.

For more information, contact Diamond W Custom Machine Works at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&amp;q=diamond+w+custom+machine+works">785-282-9321</a>.

It’s time to leave Pennsylvania where a vital part has been delivered from Diamond W Custom Machine Works, halfway across the continent. We commend Eric Wagner for making a difference with engineering entrepreneurship.

For the rural economy, he is definitely doing his part.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725651551504.jpeg" alt="Eric Wagner,&nbsp;founder and operator of Diamond W Custom Machine Works in Agra.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Eric Wagner,&nbsp;founder and operator of Diamond W Custom Machine Works in Agra.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON</a>&nbsp; Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentLet’s go to Pennsylvania, where a much-needed equipment part is arriving at the factory. Remarkably, this unique part was 3D-printed by a custom machine shop halfway across the country in rural Kansas.Today we’ll meet the innovative young engineer who engineered this part and created this remarkable business.Eric Wagner is the founder and operator of Diamond W Custom Machine Works in Agra in northwest Kansas. Wagner grew up in Phillips County. His grandfather enjoyed antique tractors which required frequent maintenance and occasional repair.“I spent countless hours in that shop working with my grandpa,” Wagner said.Wagner earned a degree in mechanical engineering technology from K-State-Salina. In 2009, he took a job managing the machine shop for the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering at K-State’s main campus in Manhattan.In that position, one of his responsibilities was to work with the engineering student design teams who did hands-on projects, such as building Baja off-road vehicles or the award-winning Powercat quarter-scale tractors.“As an engineer, I got to help create those designs,” Wagner said. “I worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of great students and helped them get hands-on experience. I had a great job at K-State.”After hours, he started working in his garage on projects of his own, such as 3D printing.“I could program a design and then let my 3D printer run all night and all the next day while I was at work,” Wagner said.He made lots of signs for various businesses. This led to his work in metal fabrication. In 2015, he formed his own LLC.When the Covid pandemic hit, Wagner moved back home to Phillips County to work remotely. He enjoyed working in a small town and took a local engineering job. He also married Katie, who was working for a nearby hospital. When they had children, she transitioned to a remote work position.“We teach them the importance of family and community,” Wagner said.In 2023, Wagner went into the business full-time. Using his last initial, the business was named Diamond W Custom Machine Works. He established the business in his grandfather’s old shop.The business did multiple projects for growing local enterprises. Wagner also found that the young student engineers with whom he had worked at K-State had gone on to related careers across the country, and they became customers.“That’s a network that has spread all over the world,” Wagner said. “Many times, they will reach back out about a project. It’s neat to see how those relationships come back around.”Today, Diamond W Custom Machine Works offers 3D printing, metal welding fabrication, engineering design, and CNC machining.“I like to see projects through from start to finish,” Wagner said. “It’s fun to start with an engineering design, develop a prototype, and then see it through to the production of the finished product. I enjoy taking an idea from a sketch on a napkin to a manufacturable product.”These capabilities create demand from research and development startups and manufacturers across the country. “No two days are the same,” Wagner said. “It’s fun to help others problem solve.”His recent projects range from creating a stainless steel calibration table for an industrial plant, to making steel silhouettes of cowboys for display at the local rodeo grounds.Wagner has engineered and created industrial machine parts for customers from coast to coast. It’s an impressive record for a business based in the rural community of Agra, population 208 people. Now, that’s rural.For more information, contact Diamond W Custom Machine Works at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&amp;q=diamond+w+custom+machine+works">785-282-9321</a>.It’s time to leave Pennsylvania where a vital part has been delivered from Diamond W Custom Machine Works, halfway across the continent. We commend Eric Wagner for making a difference with engineering entrepreneurship.For the rural economy, he is definitely doing his part.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Now That’s Rural: Eric Wagner, Diamond W Machine  

Putting property back on the local tax rolls. USD 428 moved its District Education Center to its new location at 1809 24th Street in Great Bend earlier this year. That and an earlier move opened up properties at 201 S. Patton Road and 2201 Broadway Ave. At Monday's board meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp presented the winning bid on 201 S. Patton Road for approval. ONE Gas, the parent company of Kansas Gas Service, won the sealed bid at $700,000.

"We're working up the contract now for the sale of that one," Popp said. "We'll send it to them and they'll go through their legal department. I know they have some things they have to do like environment studies and things like that."

The district received no bids on the former central kitchen property at 2201 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend. Popp presented the board with options to move forward on the property, including another round of bids or hiring a real estate agent. The board approved a request for proposal (RFP) to find a real estate agency to market the property for sale.

"If there's a restaurant that wanted to come in and start up here, central kitchen would be a great starting place because it has fridges and coolers in it," Popp said. "It needs a lot of work but it would be a good starting place for something like that."

The approved RFP will consider commissions on a sale, its closing rate on commercial properties, and ensure that the real estate agency has an operating office in Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594825194804.jpeg" alt="Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the sale of the former district office building, 201 S. Patton Road, for $700,000." />
 <figcaption>Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the sale of the former district office building, 201 S. Patton Road, for $700,000.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostPutting property back on the local tax rolls. USD 428 moved its District Education Center to its new location at 1809 24th Street in Great Bend earlier this year. That and an earlier move opened up properties at 201 S. Patton Road and 2201 Broadway Ave. At Monday's board meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp presented the winning bid on 201 S. Patton Road for approval. ONE Gas, the parent company of Kansas Gas Service, won the sealed bid at $700,000."We're working up the contract now for the sale of that one," Popp said. "We'll send it to them and they'll go through their legal department. I know they have some things they have to do like environment studies and things like that."The district received no bids on the former central kitchen property at 2201 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend. Popp presented the board with options to move forward on the property, including another round of bids or hiring a real estate agent. The board approved a request for proposal (RFP) to find a real estate agency to market the property for sale."If there's a restaurant that wanted to come in and start up here, central kitchen would be a great starting place because it has fridges and coolers in it," Popp said. "It needs a lot of work but it would be a good starting place for something like that."The approved RFP will consider commissions on a sale, its closing rate on commercial properties, and ensure that the real estate agency has an operating office in Great Bend.

USD 428 board approves sale of former district education center

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder driven by&nbsp;Londa D.&nbsp;Sanderson, 69, Tulsa, Oklahoma, was southbound on Kansas Highway 14 at Kansas 156.

The driver ran the stop sign. An eastbound 2000 Kenworth semi driven by Nicholas G. Meng, 71,&nbsp;Cimarron, struck the Nissan.

EMS transported both drivers to the Ellsworth County Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder driven by&nbsp;Londa D.&nbsp;Sanderson, 69, Tulsa, Oklahoma, was southbound on Kansas Highway 14 at Kansas 156.The driver ran the stop sign. An eastbound 2000 Kenworth semi driven by Nicholas G. Meng, 71,&nbsp;Cimarron, struck the Nissan.EMS transported both drivers to the Ellsworth County Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after semi, SUV crash

BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Sept. 10 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOM

1. Administer Oath of Office to Cole Schwarz – Amye Schneider

2. Student Ambassadors – Tana Cooper/Angie Maddy

3. August Financial Statement – Mark Dean

4. Medical Laboratory Assistant Program – Karen Gunther/Chris Baker

5. Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) &amp; Cyber Risk Assessment – Renee Demel

6. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Agreements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Subaward KSU-LSAMP Grant; National Science Foundation (NSF) Amendment No 5 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Subaward FHSU Classroom to Classroom Project; Amendment No 3 &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Department of Commerce; Digital Opportunities for Connecting Kansas (DOCK) &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT &amp; Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Inc.; Hutchinson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Wayne County Hospital; Corydon, IA &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kona Prairie Community Health Center; Junction City and Manhattan, KS branches &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Xpress Wellness Urgent Care; Hutchinson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Xpress Wellness Urgent Care; Great Bend, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Sept. 10 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOMDiscussion Topics1. Administer Oath of Office to Cole Schwarz – Amye Schneider2. Student Ambassadors – Tana Cooper/Angie Maddy3. August Financial Statement – Mark Dean4. Medical Laboratory Assistant Program – Karen Gunther/Chris Baker5. Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) &amp; Cyber Risk Assessment – Renee Demel6. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Agreements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Subaward KSU-LSAMP Grant; National Science Foundation (NSF) Amendment No 5 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Subaward FHSU Classroom to Classroom Project; Amendment No 3 &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Department of Commerce; Digital Opportunities for Connecting Kansas (DOCK) &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT &amp; Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Inc.; Hutchinson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Wayne County Hospital; Corydon, IA &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kona Prairie Community Health Center; Junction City and Manhattan, KS branches &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Xpress Wellness Urgent Care; Hutchinson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Xpress Wellness Urgent Care; Great Bend, KS

Barton CC Trustees study session agenda (9/10)

News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 9 John P. Tretbar

The OPEC-Plus export alliance last week postponed its plans to increase crude oil production, but that was not enough to forestall a big drop in prices. The group kept in place its long-term plans to resume production increases, but pushed back the completion date by two months.

October NYMEX crude settled Friday at $67.67 per barrel, the lowest closing price since June of 2023, down $1.48 on the day and a weekly loss of nearly six dollars a barrel. Prices were a few cents higher in morning trading on Monday. The average for the month of August was a fraction over $65.62 per barrel. The average for August last year was over $71.Kansas Common Crude dropped a dollar and a half to start the week at $58 per barrel, down $5.75 in seven days and ten dollars less than the average price so far this year at CHS in McPherson.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 89 new intent-to-drill notices last month. After updating totals from March and April, the total for the year stands at 742 intents statewide, compared to 901 by the end of August last year. Barton County reports six new intents, 23 so far this year. That's down from 29 a year ago but up from 13 through August of 2022. Ellis County notches two new ones, nine so far this year, compared to 24 a year ago and 16 the year before that. In Russell County there are eight new notices so far this year, which is double the tally by this time last year, but down one from 2022. Stafford County reports eleven new intents through August of this year, compared to 21 a year ago and 12 two years ago.

Rig Counts are down across the country and across Kansas. Baker Hughes reported 582 active rigs nationwide, down one gas rig from last week, with declines in Colorado, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania, and increases in West Virginia and New Mexico. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports ten active rigs in eastern Kansas, down one, and 15 rigs west of Wichita, which is unchanged. The statewide total is down 17% from a month ago and 31% lower than a year ago.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports six new well completions across the state last week, 907 so far this year, which is down 145 completions from a year ago.

Kansas regulators report two new drilling permits in Barton County out of five in Western Kansas and 21 statewide. With 685 so far this year, the statewide total lags behind last year by 149 permits.

The US adds 1.8 million barrels of crude to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the biggest weekly increase since DOE began refilling the reserves. Our refills are $16 a barrel cheaper than the original sales price, for a profit of nearly $29 million in the last week, and over $246 million since April. &nbsp;EIA says commercial stockpiles dropped 6.9 million barrels to just over 418 million, their lowest level in eleven months.US crude production held steady at 13,300,000 barrels per day. The four-week average is up four percent from the same four weeks last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly seven percent from a year ago.

The US imports more crude than we export by about two million barrels per day. We export more petroleum products than we import by about 5.5 million barrels a day. Thus we are a net petroleum exporter by just under 3.5 million barrels per day.

Crude exports averaged 3.7 million barrels a day. Four-week average crude exports are up nearly a million barrels a day over last year.&nbsp; Petroleum product exports averaged 7.3 million barrels a day.US crude imports were down 768,000 daily barrels to 5.8 million last week. Over the last four weeks, crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels a day, down eight percent from a year ago. Product imports averaged 1.8 million barrels a day.US operators produced nearly 2.4 billion barrels of crude oil in the first six months of the year. That's just over 13 million barrels a day. The tally in Kansas for January through June is 72,846 barrels per day. The government's Monthly Production Report shows US output rose to 13.2 million barrels per day in June, the latest data available. That's the second best monthly average this year.&nbsp; Production in the Sunflower State averaged 77,000 barrels a day in June. Output here rose two percent from May but was down slightly from June of last year. Operators in Texas pumped nearly 5.6 million barrels a day, or more than 42% of the national total.

Exxon Mobil recently joined with Pioneer Natural Resources in a $60 BILLION merger. Now they're selling off producing conventional wells in the Permian's Central Basin in what could be a billion dollar offering. According to Bloomberg, the value of mergers and acquisitions in the oil and gas sector this year has doubled to over $210 BILLION.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 9 John P. TretbarThe OPEC-Plus export alliance last week postponed its plans to increase crude oil production, but that was not enough to forestall a big drop in prices. The group kept in place its long-term plans to resume production increases, but pushed back the completion date by two months.October NYMEX crude settled Friday at $67.67 per barrel, the lowest closing price since June of 2023, down $1.48 on the day and a weekly loss of nearly six dollars a barrel. Prices were a few cents higher in morning trading on Monday. The average for the month of August was a fraction over $65.62 per barrel. The average for August last year was over $71.Kansas Common Crude dropped a dollar and a half to start the week at $58 per barrel, down $5.75 in seven days and ten dollars less than the average price so far this year at CHS in McPherson.The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 89 new intent-to-drill notices last month. After updating totals from March and April, the total for the year stands at 742 intents statewide, compared to 901 by the end of August last year. Barton County reports six new intents, 23 so far this year. That's down from 29 a year ago but up from 13 through August of 2022. Ellis County notches two new ones, nine so far this year, compared to 24 a year ago and 16 the year before that. In Russell County there are eight new notices so far this year, which is double the tally by this time last year, but down one from 2022. Stafford County reports eleven new intents through August of this year, compared to 21 a year ago and 12 two years ago.Rig Counts are down across the country and across Kansas. Baker Hughes reported 582 active rigs nationwide, down one gas rig from last week, with declines in Colorado, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania, and increases in West Virginia and New Mexico. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports ten active rigs in eastern Kansas, down one, and 15 rigs west of Wichita, which is unchanged. The statewide total is down 17% from a month ago and 31% lower than a year ago.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports six new well completions across the state last week, 907 so far this year, which is down 145 completions from a year ago.Kansas regulators report two new drilling permits in Barton County out of five in Western Kansas and 21 statewide. With 685 so far this year, the statewide total lags behind last year by 149 permits.The US adds 1.8 million barrels of crude to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the biggest weekly increase since DOE began refilling the reserves. Our refills are $16 a barrel cheaper than the original sales price, for a profit of nearly $29 million in the last week, and over $246 million since April. &nbsp;EIA says commercial stockpiles dropped 6.9 million barrels to just over 418 million, their lowest level in eleven months.US crude production held steady at 13,300,000 barrels per day. The four-week average is up four percent from the same four weeks last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly seven percent from a year ago.The US imports more crude than we export by about two million barrels per day. We export more petroleum products than we import by about 5.5 million barrels a day. Thus we are a net petroleum exporter by just under 3.5 million barrels per day.Crude exports averaged 3.7 million barrels a day. Four-week average crude exports are up nearly a million barrels a day over last year.&nbsp; Petroleum product exports averaged 7.3 million barrels a day.US crude imports were down 768,000 daily barrels to 5.8 million last week. Over the last four weeks, crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels a day, down eight percent from a year ago. Product imports averaged 1.8 million barrels a day.US operators produced nearly 2.4 billion barrels of crude oil in the first six months of the year. That's just over 13 million barrels a day. The tally in Kansas for January through June is 72,846 barrels per day. The government's Monthly Production Report shows US output rose to 13.2 million barrels per day in June, the latest data available. That's the second best monthly average this year.&nbsp; Production in the Sunflower State averaged 77,000 barrels a day in June. Output here rose two percent from May but was down slightly from June of last year. Operators in Texas pumped nearly 5.6 million barrels a day, or more than 42% of the national total.Exxon Mobil recently joined with Pioneer Natural Resources in a $60 BILLION merger. Now they're selling off producing conventional wells in the Permian's Central Basin in what could be a billion dollar offering. According to Bloomberg, the value of mergers and acquisitions in the oil and gas sector this year has doubled to over $210 BILLION.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude prices drop to 15-month lows

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Aug. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Nemaha ‑&nbsp;63‑66 KA‑5729‑01 ‑ K‑63, bridge #023 over Turkey Creek located 7.64 miles north of the U.S. 36/K‑63 west junction, bridge replacement, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $5,724,952.34.

Nemaha ‑&nbsp;66 KA‑7437‑01 ‑ K‑63, from the K‑9/K‑63 north junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑63 east junction; K-63, from the U.S. 36/K‑63 west junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line; K‑71, beginning at the K‑63/K‑71 junction east to the south city limits of Bern, sealing, 23.4 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,172,464.73.

Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5228‑01 – Bridge, located 2.0 miles north and 1.0 mile east of Havensville over Vermillion Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $670,069.63.

Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5279‑01 – Bridge, located 1.5 miles south and 1.5 miles east of Belvue over Kansas River, bridge repair, 0.6 mile, A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa, $11,206,043.60.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7441‑01 – U.S. 159 in Atchison County, beginning at the Morton/Stevens county line east to the concrete at the west city limits of Hugoton; K‑116 in Atchison County, beginning at the Jackson/Atchison county line east to the U.S. 59/K‑116 junction; and K‑116 in Jackson county, beginning at the K‑16/K‑116 junction east to the Jackson/Atchison county line, sealing, 32.6 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,223,751.04.

Cloud ‑&nbsp;24‑15 KA‑7399‑01 – U.S. 24, from 0.23 mile east of the U.S. 81/U.S. 24 junction east to the Cloud/Clay county line, crack repair, 15.9 miles, Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $235,771.39.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;141‑27 KA‑5723‑01 ‑ K‑141, bridge #053 over Union Pacific Railroad and west Spring Creek located 0.64 mile south of K‑140, bridge replacement, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $5,729,590.74.

Mitchell ‑&nbsp;62 C‑5194‑01 ‑ RS 236, between I Road and approximately 0.25 mile south of Cawker City south city limits, grading and surfacing, 3.4 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,446,220.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7401‑01 ‑ K‑128 in Mitchell County, from the U.S. 24/K‑128 junction north to the Jewell/Mitchell county line; K‑128 in Jewell County, from the Jewell/Mitchell county line north to the K‑128/U.S. 36 junction; and K‑228 in Jewell County, from the K‑128/K‑228 junction east to the end of route, surface recycle, 19.4 miles, Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $2,238,399.05.

Osborne ‑&nbsp;281‑71 KA‑6020‑01 – U.S. 281, north junction U.S. 24/U.S. 281 north to south city limits of Portis at State Street, grading, bridge and surfacing, 3.5 miles, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $18,892,764.37.

Rooks ‑&nbsp;82 C‑5235‑01 – Bridge, located 2.2 miles south and 2.5 miles east of Plainville over Paradise Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $289,698.67.

&nbsp;Russell ‑&nbsp;84 C‑5196‑01 ‑ Major collectors, located north of I‑70 and west of U.S. 281, signing, 53.0 miles, KOMO Construction LLC / DBA A&amp;H Co., Elko New Market, Minnesota, $219,268.00.

&nbsp;Russell ‑&nbsp;84 KA‑7407‑01 ‑ K‑18, from the U.S. 281/K‑18 east junction east to the Russell/Lincoln county line; and U.S. 281, from the K‑18/U.S. 281 west junction east to the K‑18/U.S. 281 east junction, surface recycle, 21.8 miles, Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $3,585,150.48.

Smith ‑&nbsp;92 C‑5236‑01 – Bridge, located 2.7 miles south and 7.0 miles east of Smith Center over West Oak Creek, bridge replacement, 0.3 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $597,099.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;24‑106 KA‑7411‑01 – U.S. 24 in Rooks County, from Pleasant Street in the city of Stockton east to the Rooks/Osborne county line; and U.S. 24 in Osborne County, from the Rooks/Osborne county line east to 0.69 mile east of the city of Alton, sealing, 18.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $845,117.90.

Bourbon ‑&nbsp;69‑6 KA‑7446‑01 – U.S. 69, 23rd Street in Fort Scott north to the U.S. 69/U.S. 54 junction, crack repair, 2.1 miles, Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $81,593.32.

Chautauqua ‑&nbsp;10 C‑5220‑01 – Bridge, located 0.6 mile south and 2.0 miles east of Cedar Vale over stream, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $467,026.75.

Barber ‑&nbsp;281‑4 KA‑7430‑01 – U.S. 281, Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the U.S. 160/U.S. 281 junction, milling and overlay, 23.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $4,501,847.30.

Barber ‑&nbsp;160‑4 KA‑7429‑01 – U.S. 160, from the Barber/Comanche county line east to the west edge wearing surface of bridge #041, overlay, 22.8 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,378,920.60.

Kingman ‑&nbsp;48 C‑5230‑01 – Bridge, located 3.4 miles north and 2.4 miles east of Murdock over unnamed tributary to Smoots Creek, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $433,050.70.

Pawnee ‑&nbsp;73 C‑5224‑01 – Bridge, located 7.0 miles east and 4.5 miles north of Larned over Ash Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $538,595.10.

Pratt ‑&nbsp;281‑76 KA‑6895‑01 – U.S. 281, pavement restoration from 10th Street to 8th Street in Pratt, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile, Morgan Brothers Construction, Inc., Lacrosse, Kansas, $510,578.79.

Ness ‑&nbsp;68 C‑5225‑01 – Bridge, located 2.0 miles north and 4.0 miles east of Beeler over Tributary to South Fork of Walnut Creek, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $362,626.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7433‑01 – U.S. 56 in Morton County, beginning at the west city limits of Rolla east to the Morton/Stevens county line; U.S. 56 in Stevens County, beginning at the Morton/Stevens county line east to the concrete at the west city limits of Hugoton; and K‑25 in Stevens County, beginning at the Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the U.S. 56/K‑25 junction, sealing, 26.9 miles, Heft and Sons LLC, Greensburg, Kansas, $1,191,226.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6860‑01 – U.S. 83, U.S. 270, U.S. 54 and K‑51 in Seward, Stevens and Meade counties, signing, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $944,000.00.

The following projects were approved from the July 17, 2024, letting.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 N‑0693‑01 – Intersection, Oliver Avenue/Kechi Road in Kechi, intersection improvement, 0.5 mile, Conspec Inc. DBA Kansas Paving, Wichita, Kansas, $1,998,226.10.

Ness ‑&nbsp;68 C‑5126‑01 ‑ RS 312, from RS 280 to K‑96, guard fence, 9.0 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $239,593.00.

Lyon ‑&nbsp;56 C‑5188‑01 ‑ RS 412, from the north city limits of Americus to U.S. 56, grading, 10.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $1,033,661.58.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Aug. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastNemaha ‑&nbsp;63‑66 KA‑5729‑01 ‑ K‑63, bridge #023 over Turkey Creek located 7.64 miles north of the U.S. 36/K‑63 west junction, bridge replacement, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $5,724,952.34.Nemaha ‑&nbsp;66 KA‑7437‑01 ‑ K‑63, from the K‑9/K‑63 north junction north to the U.S. 36/K‑63 east junction; K-63, from the U.S. 36/K‑63 west junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line; K‑71, beginning at the K‑63/K‑71 junction east to the south city limits of Bern, sealing, 23.4 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,172,464.73.Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5228‑01 – Bridge, located 2.0 miles north and 1.0 mile east of Havensville over Vermillion Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $670,069.63.Pottawatomie ‑&nbsp;75 C‑5279‑01 – Bridge, located 1.5 miles south and 1.5 miles east of Belvue over Kansas River, bridge repair, 0.6 mile, A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa, $11,206,043.60.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7441‑01 – U.S. 159 in Atchison County, beginning at the Morton/Stevens county line east to the concrete at the west city limits of Hugoton; K‑116 in Atchison County, beginning at the Jackson/Atchison county line east to the U.S. 59/K‑116 junction; and K‑116 in Jackson county, beginning at the K‑16/K‑116 junction east to the Jackson/Atchison county line, sealing, 32.6 miles, Vance Brothers Inc. and Subsidiary, Kansas City, Missouri, $1,223,751.04.District Two — North CentralCloud ‑&nbsp;24‑15 KA‑7399‑01 – U.S. 24, from 0.23 mile east of the U.S. 81/U.S. 24 junction east to the Cloud/Clay county line, crack repair, 15.9 miles, Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $235,771.39.Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;141‑27 KA‑5723‑01 ‑ K‑141, bridge #053 over Union Pacific Railroad and west Spring Creek located 0.64 mile south of K‑140, bridge replacement, Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $5,729,590.74.Mitchell ‑&nbsp;62 C‑5194‑01 ‑ RS 236, between I Road and approximately 0.25 mile south of Cawker City south city limits, grading and surfacing, 3.4 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,446,220.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7401‑01 ‑ K‑128 in Mitchell County, from the U.S. 24/K‑128 junction north to the Jewell/Mitchell county line; K‑128 in Jewell County, from the Jewell/Mitchell county line north to the K‑128/U.S. 36 junction; and K‑228 in Jewell County, from the K‑128/K‑228 junction east to the end of route, surface recycle, 19.4 miles, Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $2,238,399.05.District Three — NorthwestOsborne ‑&nbsp;281‑71 KA‑6020‑01 – U.S. 281, north junction U.S. 24/U.S. 281 north to south city limits of Portis at State Street, grading, bridge and surfacing, 3.5 miles, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $18,892,764.37.Rooks ‑&nbsp;82 C‑5235‑01 – Bridge, located 2.2 miles south and 2.5 miles east of Plainville over Paradise Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $289,698.67.&nbsp;Russell ‑&nbsp;84 C‑5196‑01 ‑ Major collectors, located north of I‑70 and west of U.S. 281, signing, 53.0 miles, KOMO Construction LLC / DBA A&amp;H Co., Elko New Market, Minnesota, $219,268.00.&nbsp;Russell ‑&nbsp;84 KA‑7407‑01 ‑ K‑18, from the U.S. 281/K‑18 east junction east to the Russell/Lincoln county line; and U.S. 281, from the K‑18/U.S. 281 west junction east to the K‑18/U.S. 281 east junction, surface recycle, 21.8 miles, Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $3,585,150.48.Smith ‑&nbsp;92 C‑5236‑01 – Bridge, located 2.7 miles south and 7.0 miles east of Smith Center over West Oak Creek, bridge replacement, 0.3 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $597,099.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;24‑106 KA‑7411‑01 – U.S. 24 in Rooks County, from Pleasant Street in the city of Stockton east to the Rooks/Osborne county line; and U.S. 24 in Osborne County, from the Rooks/Osborne county line east to 0.69 mile east of the city of Alton, sealing, 18.4 miles, Circle C Paving and Construction LLC, Goddard, Kansas, $845,117.90.District Four — SoutheastBourbon ‑&nbsp;69‑6 KA‑7446‑01 – U.S. 69, 23rd Street in Fort Scott north to the U.S. 69/U.S. 54 junction, crack repair, 2.1 miles, Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $81,593.32.Chautauqua ‑&nbsp;10 C‑5220‑01 – Bridge, located 0.6 mile south and 2.0 miles east of Cedar Vale over stream, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $467,026.75.District Five — South CentralBarber ‑&nbsp;281‑4 KA‑7430‑01 – U.S. 281, Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the U.S. 160/U.S. 281 junction, milling and overlay, 23.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $4,501,847.30.Barber ‑&nbsp;160‑4 KA‑7429‑01 – U.S. 160, from the Barber/Comanche county line east to the west edge wearing surface of bridge #041, overlay, 22.8 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,378,920.60.Kingman ‑&nbsp;48 C‑5230‑01 – Bridge, located 3.4 miles north and 2.4 miles east of Murdock over unnamed tributary to Smoots Creek, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $433,050.70.Pawnee ‑&nbsp;73 C‑5224‑01 – Bridge, located 7.0 miles east and 4.5 miles north of Larned over Ash Creek, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $538,595.10.Pratt ‑&nbsp;281‑76 KA‑6895‑01 – U.S. 281, pavement restoration from 10th Street to 8th Street in Pratt, grading and surfacing, 0.2 mile, Morgan Brothers Construction, Inc., Lacrosse, Kansas, $510,578.79.District Six — SouthwestNess ‑&nbsp;68 C‑5225‑01 – Bridge, located 2.0 miles north and 4.0 miles east of Beeler over Tributary to South Fork of Walnut Creek, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $362,626.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7433‑01 – U.S. 56 in Morton County, beginning at the west city limits of Rolla east to the Morton/Stevens county line; U.S. 56 in Stevens County, beginning at the Morton/Stevens county line east to the concrete at the west city limits of Hugoton; and K‑25 in Stevens County, beginning at the Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the U.S. 56/K‑25 junction, sealing, 26.9 miles, Heft and Sons LLC, Greensburg, Kansas, $1,191,226.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6860‑01 – U.S. 83, U.S. 270, U.S. 54 and K‑51 in Seward, Stevens and Meade counties, signing, Martin Outdoor Enterprises Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $944,000.00.The following projects were approved from the July 17, 2024, letting.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 N‑0693‑01 – Intersection, Oliver Avenue/Kechi Road in Kechi, intersection improvement, 0.5 mile, Conspec Inc. DBA Kansas Paving, Wichita, Kansas, $1,998,226.10.Ness ‑&nbsp;68 C‑5126‑01 ‑ RS 312, from RS 280 to K‑96, guard fence, 9.0 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $239,593.00.Lyon ‑&nbsp;56 C‑5188‑01 ‑ RS 412, from the north city limits of Americus to U.S. 56, grading, 10.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $1,033,661.58.

KDOT announces approved August bids

Early last spring, I was giddy to plant the garden. We picked out a variety of crops from watermelon, okra, and yellow squash, to tomatoes, and cauliflower. However, the ever-changing Kansas weather seemed to get the best of it. From the start, high winds, hail, and heat made it difficult for the garden to get established. By June, the only plant producing was the hearty yellow squash. And when I say hearty, I mean it. The squash didn’t seem to mind the harsh weather. In fact, it overtook half of the garden and we are still pawning off dozens of the bright yellow vegetables weekly.

So, if you’re anything like me, maybe you haven’t had the best garden this year, but you’re grateful to harvest a few crops so far. Perhaps you’ve had an abundance of summer squash or zucchini and you’re looking for new ways to prevent it from going to waste. After all, squash is great for you! It’s full of vitamin C, potassium, beta carotene, and fiber.

To preserve squash, one option is to freeze it. In fact, freezing it can preserve it for 10 months. This way, you can reap the benefits of it later this year. To freeze squash, first choose young squash with tender skins. Wash and cut into ½-inch slices. Blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes; cool in ice water for at least 3 minutes. Drain and package into freezer bags or freezer containers, leaving ½-inch headspace.

· Grated zucchini (for baking): Choose young tender zucchini. Wash and grate. Steam blanch in small quantities 1 to 2 minutes until translucent. Pack in measured amounts into containers, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cool by placing the containers in ice water. Seal and freeze. If watery when thawed, discard the liquid before using the zucchini.

Another way to save zucchini or summer squash is to pickle it, but always make sure to follow a tested recipe. For example, the National Center for Home Preservation website provides safe recipes for pickling squash, and note that it is not recommended to can squash.

· To pickle squash, it may be diced or shredded by hand instead of a food processor. In any recipe, a variety of onion is acceptable, and celery salt may be substituted for celery seed for a taste preference. Also, fresh relish can be enjoyed without processing, but fresh or opened jars should be refrigerated. For best quality and safety, consume refrigerated pickled squash within 7 days.

For immediate use, there are hundreds of ways to prepare the versatile vegetable. Sautee or grill it for a side dish, make zucchini boats, throw it in a stir fry, or breakfast scramble. Try it in a casserole or vegetable lasagna. Hide it in a pasta dish by blending it into the sauce or cook it into a soup. Dice it finely and mix it into a salad. Alternatively, create a treat by baking it in a quick bread!

If you’re anything like me, you don’t have a shortage of squash. Luckily, there isn’t a shortage of ways to prepare it! So, be creative this season. You might find your new favorite way to soak up the nutrients of squash and prevent your hard work in the garden from going to waste.

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>Early last spring, I was giddy to plant the garden. We picked out a variety of crops from watermelon, okra, and yellow squash, to tomatoes, and cauliflower. However, the ever-changing Kansas weather seemed to get the best of it. From the start, high winds, hail, and heat made it difficult for the garden to get established. By June, the only plant producing was the hearty yellow squash. And when I say hearty, I mean it. The squash didn’t seem to mind the harsh weather. In fact, it overtook half of the garden and we are still pawning off dozens of the bright yellow vegetables weekly.So, if you’re anything like me, maybe you haven’t had the best garden this year, but you’re grateful to harvest a few crops so far. Perhaps you’ve had an abundance of summer squash or zucchini and you’re looking for new ways to prevent it from going to waste. After all, squash is great for you! It’s full of vitamin C, potassium, beta carotene, and fiber.To preserve squash, one option is to freeze it. In fact, freezing it can preserve it for 10 months. This way, you can reap the benefits of it later this year. To freeze squash, first choose young squash with tender skins. Wash and cut into ½-inch slices. Blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes; cool in ice water for at least 3 minutes. Drain and package into freezer bags or freezer containers, leaving ½-inch headspace.· Grated zucchini (for baking): Choose young tender zucchini. Wash and grate. Steam blanch in small quantities 1 to 2 minutes until translucent. Pack in measured amounts into containers, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cool by placing the containers in ice water. Seal and freeze. If watery when thawed, discard the liquid before using the zucchini.Another way to save zucchini or summer squash is to pickle it, but always make sure to follow a tested recipe. For example, the National Center for Home Preservation website provides safe recipes for pickling squash, and note that it is not recommended to can squash.· To pickle squash, it may be diced or shredded by hand instead of a food processor. In any recipe, a variety of onion is acceptable, and celery salt may be substituted for celery seed for a taste preference. Also, fresh relish can be enjoyed without processing, but fresh or opened jars should be refrigerated. For best quality and safety, consume refrigerated pickled squash within 7 days.For immediate use, there are hundreds of ways to prepare the versatile vegetable. Sautee or grill it for a side dish, make zucchini boats, throw it in a stir fry, or breakfast scramble. Try it in a casserole or vegetable lasagna. Hide it in a pasta dish by blending it into the sauce or cook it into a soup. Dice it finely and mix it into a salad. Alternatively, create a treat by baking it in a quick bread!If you’re anything like me, you don’t have a shortage of squash. Luckily, there isn’t a shortage of ways to prepare it! So, be creative this season. You might find your new favorite way to soak up the nutrients of squash and prevent your hard work in the garden from going to waste.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: A surplus of squash - get creative in the kitchen

USD 428 Great Bend Board of Education Meeting Agenda 1809 24th Street, Great Bend REVENUE-NEUTRAL RATE HEARING September 9, 2024 5:00 p.m.

(AI) 1. Call to Order of Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing / Roll Call (IO) 2. Recognition of Visitors at the Hearing (AI) 3. Approval of Resolution to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate The local Board of Education must approve by resolution to exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for financing the annual budget for 2024-2025. Mr. Thexton will provide details and recommend approval. (AI) 4. Adjournment of Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing

BUDGET HEARING Immediately following the Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing (AI) 1. Call to Order of Budget Hearing (IO) 2. Recognition of Visitors at the Budget Hearing (IO) 3. Review of District Needs Assessment (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (AI) 4. Budget Hearing (Refer to Mr. Thexton) There will be a summative review of USD 428’s 2024-2025 budget, as published in the Tribune on 8/27/24. The administration recommends approval/adoption of the FY 2024-2025 budget. (Attachment Budget) (AI) 5. Adjournment of Budget Hearing

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING Sept. 9, 2024, Immediately following the Budget Hearing AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only

(AI) 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1 Roll Call 1.2 Adoption of Agenda 1.3 Recognition of Visitors 1.4 Request to Speak Reminder · Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent for citizen participation. 1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum

(IO) 2. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp;Board Member Comments · USD 428 Education Foundation · Written Communications / Correspondence

(IO) 3. PRESENTATIONS · Director’s Report: As the 2024-2025 school year begins, a monthly rotation of Directors in the district Report will present department updates to board members. The September guest director who will provide a report is Dirk Davis, Director of Maintenance and Custodians.

(IO/AI) 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Approval of Resolution to Adopt Local Option Budget (LOB) Percentage All boards of education must annually adopt a local option budget percentage resolution. The maximum percentage that may be authorized is the statewide average of 32% unless the district has adopted a resolution to exceed the statewide average. The district recommends adopting the statewide average of 32% as our Local Option Budget (LOB) percentage. The administration recommends approval of the LOB.

(IO) B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application (Refer to Mr. Thexton) Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff is required. The 2024-2025 application amounts to $1,120,020 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($11,400 less than the prior year) and $40,834 for ECH ($1 less than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.

(AI) C. Approval of Workers Compensation Audited Adjustment (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4C) The annual gross Workers' Compensation premium through KASB is based on the estimated payroll at the beginning of the year and then audited and adjusted according to the actual payroll at each year's end. Audited numbers for July 2023 through June 2024 reflect a balance due of $8,722; therefore, the administration recommends approval to pay the balance due.

(AI) D. Approval of Site Council Members (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4D) Learning center principals submitted names of their schools' recommended 2024-2025 Site Council members. The administration recommends approval. Questions regarding members on any Site Councils should be directed to Mr. Thexton before the meeting.

(AI) E. KASB Delegate Assembly (Refer to Mr. Thexton) The KASB Delegate Assembly is the Annual Business Meeting of the Association. Each KASB member entity assigns a voting delegate at the assembly to vote on behalf of their local Board of Education regarding legislative priorities for 2025. Voting delegates will select a KASB President-Elect Designee and vote on proposed changes to the KASB Constitution and our Legislative Positions and Priorities, which guide the association’s legislative efforts. Jacquie Disque, President, will be registered as the USD 428 Delegate, and Aaron Emerson, Vice President, will be the alternate. The Delegate Assembly is on November 16. A link will be sent to Delegates from KASB to submit their electronic vote.

USD 428 Great Bend Board of Education Meeting Agenda 1809 24th Street, Great Bend REVENUE-NEUTRAL RATE HEARING September 9, 2024 5:00 p.m.(AI) 1. Call to Order of Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing / Roll Call (IO) 2. Recognition of Visitors at the Hearing (AI) 3. Approval of Resolution to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate The local Board of Education must approve by resolution to exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for financing the annual budget for 2024-2025. Mr. Thexton will provide details and recommend approval. (AI) 4. Adjournment of Revenue Neutral Rate HearingBUDGET HEARING Immediately following the Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing (AI) 1. Call to Order of Budget Hearing (IO) 2. Recognition of Visitors at the Budget Hearing (IO) 3. Review of District Needs Assessment (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (AI) 4. Budget Hearing (Refer to Mr. Thexton) There will be a summative review of USD 428’s 2024-2025 budget, as published in the Tribune on 8/27/24. The administration recommends approval/adoption of the FY 2024-2025 budget. (Attachment Budget) (AI) 5. Adjournment of Budget Hearing BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING Sept. 9, 2024, Immediately following the Budget Hearing AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only(AI) 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1 Roll Call 1.2 Adoption of Agenda 1.3 Recognition of Visitors 1.4 Request to Speak Reminder · Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent for citizen participation. 1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum(IO) 2. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp;Board Member Comments · USD 428 Education Foundation · Written Communications / Correspondence(IO) 3. PRESENTATIONS · Director’s Report: As the 2024-2025 school year begins, a monthly rotation of Directors in the district Report will present department updates to board members. The September guest director who will provide a report is Dirk Davis, Director of Maintenance and Custodians.(IO/AI) 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Approval of Resolution to Adopt Local Option Budget (LOB) Percentage All boards of education must annually adopt a local option budget percentage resolution. The maximum percentage that may be authorized is the statewide average of 32% unless the district has adopted a resolution to exceed the statewide average. The district recommends adopting the statewide average of 32% as our Local Option Budget (LOB) percentage. The administration recommends approval of the LOB.(IO) B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application (Refer to Mr. Thexton) Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff is required. The 2024-2025 application amounts to $1,120,020 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($11,400 less than the prior year) and $40,834 for ECH ($1 less than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.(AI) C. Approval of Workers Compensation Audited Adjustment (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4C) The annual gross Workers' Compensation premium through KASB is based on the estimated payroll at the beginning of the year and then audited and adjusted according to the actual payroll at each year's end. Audited numbers for July 2023 through June 2024 reflect a balance due of $8,722; therefore, the administration recommends approval to pay the balance due.(AI) D. Approval of Site Council Members (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4D) Learning center principals submitted names of their schools' recommended 2024-2025 Site Council members. The administration recommends approval. Questions regarding members on any Site Councils should be directed to Mr. Thexton before the meeting.(AI) E. KASB Delegate Assembly (Refer to Mr. Thexton) The KASB Delegate Assembly is the Annual Business Meeting of the Association. Each KASB member entity assigns a voting delegate at the assembly to vote on behalf of their local Board of Education regarding legislative priorities for 2025. Voting delegates will select a KASB President-Elect Designee and vote on proposed changes to the KASB Constitution and our Legislative Positions and Priorities, which guide the association’s legislative efforts. Jacquie Disque, President, will be registered as the USD 428 Delegate, and Aaron Emerson, Vice President, will be the alternate. The Delegate Assembly is on November 16. A link will be sent to Delegates from KASB to submit their electronic vote.(AI) F. Approval of 10 Passenger Van (Refer to Mr. Popp) (Attachment 4F) The district has received a government rate quote for three 2024 Ford Transit T350 low-roof, 10-passenger vans priced at $55,451 each for student transport: two for student activities and one for Barton County Special Services. The administration will provide details and request approval.(IO/AI) 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS(IO/AI) A. Review of Surplus Real Estate Bids (Refer to Mr. Popp) (Attachment 5A) The administration will discuss the two following surplus properties: · 201 S. Patton Road, Great Bend, KS · 2201 Broadway Ave, Great Bend, KS John Popp will discuss sealed bids opened on 9/4/24 and request board approval to accept the highest bid for the former District Education Center at 201 S. Patton Road. A reserve has been set for the two appraised properties, and the district reserves the right to refuse all bids that do not meet the appraised value of the building(s). The building at 2019 12th Street is not for sale yet, but it is anticipated to be up for sale sometime this fall.(IO/AI) B. Second Reading of BOE Policy (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 5B) At the meeting of 8/28/2024, BOE members heard the first reading of one KASB-recommended revised policy. At this second reading, the administration recommends approval.Revision GAOE Workers Compensation C. Third Party Administrator Health Contract Update (Refer to Mr. Popp) The contract between USD 428 and Value Health ends on September 1 due to the recent closure of Value Health. Mr. Popp will discuss the district’s plan for the continuance of health care with third-party administrator Freedom Claims Management, effective 9/1/24 for the 2024-2025 school year.(IO/AI) 6. CURRICULUM REPORT A. Professional Development classes Novice teachers must complete Instructional Methods: Support each year within the first two years of their teaching contract with USD 428. This class replaces the Instructional Model course and is designed to support and retain teachers in USD 428. B. 2023 – 2028 Professional Development Plan (Attachment 6B) The proposed 2023 – 2028 Professional Development Plan outlines the updated goals for the next five years of professional development and was approved in June 2023. The State Board of Education now requires a cohesive plan for all districts to adapt, and the updated version is ready for board approval. The district’s overall PDC plan has been reviewed and approved by the Professional Development Committee. An assurance document will be sent to the state for review once approved. C. Capturing Kids' Hearts The Capturing Kids Hearts program continues to be a focus into 2024-2025 as better relationships between teachers and students impact student achievement. Mrs. Blevins will provide an update on the progress of the program implemented in all buildings. D. District Improvement Plan (Attachment 6D) The District Leadership Team has developed a three-year improvement plan focused on improving student learning. Mrs. Blevins will review the plan goals and action steps with board members. E. Curriculum Meetings § Curriculum Steering Committee: 9/10/24 minutes, next meeting 11/5/24 § Professional Development Council (PDC): 8/12/24 minutes, next meeting 9/9/24(IO/AI) 7. BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS REPORT A. Student Immunizations Required and recommended student immunizations are to be updated by October 1. School nurses monitor student immunization records and relay information to the principals to enforce the policy. Parents have the right to exempt their children from immunizations.B. New Teacher Mentor Program USD 428 has been mentoring new teachers for two years over the past several years. First-year teachers and their assigned mentors meet weekly. Second-year teachers have the same mentor and meet every two weeks. Experienced teachers new to the district are assigned to an Ambassador who will help them adjust to a new building at the beginning of the school year.C. Expectations for Activities and Events As fall athletic events approach, good sportsmanship is essential for creating a positive sports environment within our community. Mr. Popp will share a friendly reminder regarding sportsmanship and respect expectations and the district policy for students attending events.D. Project Updates Board members and the administration will discuss updates on the following projects. § Little Panthers Preschool § Phone System § Camera System § Sale of additional properties and surplus itemsE. Safety Committee Update The District Safety Committee meets monthly. Mr. Popp will give an update on the committee’s targets and goals for this year.F. Personnel Update(IO/AI) 8. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT A. Enrollment Numbers Update B. Suicide Prevention Month and Week- September 8-14, 2024 C. Fire Safety and Awareness Week, October 6-12, 2024 “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” D. Approval of Grants / Contributions (Attachment 8D)IO) 9. FINANCIAL PRESENTATION(AI) 10. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes [August 12, 2024, August 28, 2024] B. Bills and Financial Reports C. Personnel Report(IO) 11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES •BOE Luncheon Meeting: at noon on September 24, 2024 (Park Elementary School) •Fall Homecoming: on September 27, 2024, with Wichita North, parade at 3:00 p.m. •BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2024, at the District Education Center. •Annual KASB Convention: on November 15-17, 2024, in Wichita, KS