As kids head back to the classroom, the American Red Cross offers this checklist you can follow to help make sure your student is safe.

If your student is younger or going to school for the first time, teach them:

If your child walks to school, teach them to:

If your student takes the bus to school, teach them to:

If your student rides their bike to school, teach them to:

If you drive your child to school, teach them to:

If you have a teenager driving to school, make sure they:

If you are considering getting your student a cell phone:

If your student is joining a sports team, make sure they:

DRIVERS, SLOW DOWN!Drivers should slow down as children head back to school. Know that yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is getting ready to stop ─ motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off.

Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This includes two and four-lane highways. If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723568613398.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As kids head back to the classroom, the American Red Cross offers this checklist you can follow to help make sure your student is safe.If your student is younger or going to school for the first time, teach them:<ul>
 <li>Their phone number, address, how to get in touch with their parents at work, how to get in touch with another trusted adult and how to dial 911.</li><li>Not to talk to strangers or accept rides from someone they don’t know.</li>
 </ul>If your child walks to school, teach them to:<ul>
 <li>Walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.</li><li>Stop and look left, right and left again to see if cars are coming.</li><li>Cross the street at the corner, obey traffic signals and stay in the crosswalk.</li><li>Never run out into the street or cross between parked cars.</li>
 </ul>If your student takes the bus to school, teach them to:<ul>
 <li>Get to their bus stop early and stand away from the curb while waiting for the bus to arrive.</li><li>Board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has instructed them to get on. And only board their bus, never an alternate one.</li><li>Stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.</li>
 </ul>If your student rides their bike to school, teach them to:<ul>
 <li>Always wear a helmet.</li><li>Ride on the right in the same direction as the traffic is going.</li>
 </ul>If you drive your child to school, teach them to:<ul>
 <li>Always wear a seat belt. Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly (typically for children ages 8-12 and over 4’9”), and ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old.</li>
 </ul>If you have a teenager driving to school, make sure they:<ul>
 <li>Use seat belts.</li><li>Don’t use their cell phone to text or make calls and avoid eating or drinking while driving.</li>
 </ul>If you are considering getting your student a cell phone:<ul>
 <li>Download the free Red Cross First Aid and Emergency apps to give them access to first aid tips for common emergencies and real-time weather alerts. Find the apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUw2unPH0BgTRXhzM0BAoutj4OcaHS3nfRnW3eR9DrPs8g-3D-3DtvB8_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvc-2FCuZe36gfrFOKTM3X8N2Q5VLTM8IVpaQAv4fM-2B5R6a7y89vGP3sGqV55-2BxV9y8n9pnKdVVsoRQ5Mm9cMFwu9ie-2FLRvBDidOm-2B3amPAkr4KUuqJTEEIblYFtdgp7pn60YI5pEiIR9r647OFFMLHAgyrjCnq4-2FCm0phmYhOF0ytzGv8k2UwD-2B9Vm-2BxSoCxwyQ0eEAP436LLWGVhQyG8199Q-3D-3D">redcross.org/apps.</a></li>
 </ul>If your student is joining a sports team, make sure they:<ul>
 <li>Wear protective gear, such as helmets, protective pads, etc.</li><li>Warm up and cool down.</li><li>Watch out for others.</li><li>Know the location of the closest first aid kit and AED.</li>
 </ul>DRIVERS, SLOW DOWN!Drivers should slow down as children head back to school. Know that yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is getting ready to stop ─ motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off.Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This includes two and four-lane highways. If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.

Safety checklist to follow as kids head back to school

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/13)

At 8:55 a.m. a report of an electrocution was made at 9026 6th
Street.

At 2:09 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 90 Avenue.

At 3:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at S. US 281
Highway &amp; SE 20 Road.

At 3:48 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 700 block of
Morphy Street.

At 5:29 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 140 Avenue
&amp; NW 110 Road.

At 8 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 31 NE 30 Road.

Great Bend Police Department incident log (8/13)

At 8:50 a.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported Charlotte Blundell skipped scanning items in the self checkout. NTA signed.

At 8:51 a.m. theft of keys from his vehicle was reported at 4107 10th Street. He located the keys.

At 2:42 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1724 Main Street.

At 3:26 p.m. theft of KS tag 255LZX was reported at 4217 10th Street. Tag was entered into NCIC.

At 3:40 p.m. an officer arrested Isaias Gonzalez for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia and driving while suspended in the 700 block of Morphy Street.

At 3:48 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 700 block of Morphy.

At 4:10 p.m. the odor of gas in the area was reported at 1724 Main Street.

At 5:29 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 140 Avenue &amp; NW 110 Road.

At 6:27 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2920 10th Street.

At 8:51 p.m. an officer made an arrest at 4714 17th Street Ter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/13)Electrocution / LightningAt 8:55 a.m. a report of an electrocution was made at 9026 6th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 2:09 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 90 Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at S. US 281
Highway &amp; SE 20 Road.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:48 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 700 block of
Morphy Street.Traffic ArrestAt 5:29 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 140 Avenue
&amp; NW 110 Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 31 NE 30 Road.Great Bend Police Department incident log (8/13)TheftAt 8:50 a.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported Charlotte Blundell skipped scanning items in the self checkout. NTA signed.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 8:51 a.m. theft of keys from his vehicle was reported at 4107 10th Street. He located the keys.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 2:42 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1724 Main Street.TheftAt 3:26 p.m. theft of KS tag 255LZX was reported at 4217 10th Street. Tag was entered into NCIC.Narcotics ViolationAt 3:40 p.m. an officer arrested Isaias Gonzalez for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia and driving while suspended in the 700 block of Morphy Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:48 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 700 block of Morphy.Gas Leak / SpillAt 4:10 p.m. the odor of gas in the area was reported at 1724 Main Street.Traffic ArrestAt 5:29 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 140 Avenue &amp; NW 110 Road.Medical AlarmAt 6:27 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2920 10th Street.Traffic ArrestAt 8:51 p.m. an officer made an arrest at 4714 17th Street Ter.

Cop Shop (8/13)

8/13 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Isaias Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, Driving Without Interlock, and Transporting an Open Container, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Laif Kern on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to JIA.

RELEASED: Peter Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault on LEO and Interference with LEO, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Victoria Hobson on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Kyle Wiley on two Rush County District Court warrants for Contempt of Court, on OR bonds.

RELEASED: Isaias Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, Driving Without Interlock, and Transporting an Open Container, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Laif Kern on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/13 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Isaias Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, Driving Without Interlock, and Transporting an Open Container, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Laif Kern on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to JIA.RELEASED: Peter Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault on LEO and Interference with LEO, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Victoria Hobson on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Kyle Wiley on two Rush County District Court warrants for Contempt of Court, on OR bonds.RELEASED: Isaias Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, Driving Without Interlock, and Transporting an Open Container, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Laif Kern on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/13)

On July 31, Forest Avenue Antiques celebrated a new chapter with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the store's new ownership under Todd and Amanda Vanskike, as well as its membership in the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.

During the event, Amanda Vanskike shared her enthusiasm for the smooth transition into ownership, noting how much she has enjoyed her time at the store. “It’s never felt like a chore,” she said. “My daughter and I can easily spend hours here, working and cherishing every moment.”

“I’ve shopped at antique stores for years, always on the hunt for that perfect piece for my home or a thoughtful gift for someone special. Forest Avenue Antiques was always a favorite of mine.”

The shop offers a collection of one-of-a-kind finds from various decades, alongside brand-new items that cater to all tastes. With multiple vendors, there’s truly something for everyone.&nbsp;

In addition to antiques, Forest Avenue Antiques also carries high-quality faux greenery, florals, and a selection of locally crafted products, including seasonal fresh cut flower arrangements, cheeses, summer sausages, and candles. The store is proud to support local artisans, including its own artist in residence.

Forest Avenue Antiques invites everyone to stop by and explore their beautiful and relaxing space. The store is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Amanda Vanskike shared, “Whether you’re a seasoned antique hunter or looking for that special something that speaks to you, our store is a must-visit place in town to experience.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723564604031.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSOn July 31, Forest Avenue Antiques celebrated a new chapter with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the store's new ownership under Todd and Amanda Vanskike, as well as its membership in the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.During the event, Amanda Vanskike shared her enthusiasm for the smooth transition into ownership, noting how much she has enjoyed her time at the store. “It’s never felt like a chore,” she said. “My daughter and I can easily spend hours here, working and cherishing every moment.”“I’ve shopped at antique stores for years, always on the hunt for that perfect piece for my home or a thoughtful gift for someone special. Forest Avenue Antiques was always a favorite of mine.”The shop offers a collection of one-of-a-kind finds from various decades, alongside brand-new items that cater to all tastes. With multiple vendors, there’s truly something for everyone.&nbsp;In addition to antiques, Forest Avenue Antiques also carries high-quality faux greenery, florals, and a selection of locally crafted products, including seasonal fresh cut flower arrangements, cheeses, summer sausages, and candles. The store is proud to support local artisans, including its own artist in residence.Forest Avenue Antiques invites everyone to stop by and explore their beautiful and relaxing space. The store is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Amanda Vanskike shared, “Whether you’re a seasoned antique hunter or looking for that special something that speaks to you, our store is a must-visit place in town to experience.”

Great Bend Chamber celebrates Forest Avenue Antiques

By TYLER ELLYSON UNK Communications

KEARNEY – Alex Hammeke was the best male tennis player at Ellinwood Middle School.

That’s a nugget he often shares while talking about his athletic background.

“There were six of us on the team. One guy. I just ignore the fact that the rest were girls,” he said with a laugh.

Hammeke refers to himself as “not athletically gifted.” He didn’t play sports in high school. Instead, he found another way to pursue his passion.

“I was not given the smarts of the family. That was given to my sister. I was given my aunt’s inability to shut up,” he joked. “And I couldn’t have found a better way to put that to good use.”

With a knack for telling stories and connecting with people, Hammeke decided to enter the world of sports communication.

The central Kansas native started broadcasting games in high school, first through the NFHS Network, an online platform similar to Striv, then as a color commentator for a local radio station. At nearby Barton Community College, where he earned an associate degree in sports management, Hammeke was the full-time voice for the Cougar baseball team.

“After my sophomore year of college, I was pretty much convinced that sports broadcasting is what I wanted to do,” he explained.

Before he could take the next step toward that career, Hammeke needed to find a school that offered a four-year degree in this field. Naturally, he simply Googled “sports broadcasting majors near me.”

“Kearney popped up. Oklahoma State popped up. If I hated both schools, I’d say screw it and just go to Wichita State. They were my fail-safe,” Hammeke said.

He visited the University of Nebraska at Kearney on a cold and blustery day in January 2021. It was J term, so very few students and faculty were on campus. However, Ford Clark agreed to meet with Hammeke and his father and show them around the Department of Communication.

Four days later, following a tour at Oklahoma State University with roughly 60 other students, Hammeke made his decision.

“I wasn’t going to go south. I was going to go north and be a Loper,” he said. “After Ford met with me and showed me what I could do here, I was convinced this was the place to go.”

Clark was a senior lecturer at UNK and general manager of the campus radio station, KLPR 91.1 FM, when Hammeke enrolled in fall 2021.

He was excited to have an accomplished writer and broadcaster and “very cool guy” join the program.

“Alex is a hilarious, hardworking, extremely intelligent person. He is also someone I would describe as having an ‘old soul,’” Clark said. “He is a throwback to a person you might think grew up in my generation. He has a love for AM radio, he loves reading paper versions of newspapers and he can talk to virtually anyone of any age. He also loves to travel and garner knowledge, and he retains knowledge like no one I have ever met.

“He is truly someone unlike anyone I have ever known.”

Obviously, the former UNK faculty member and his advisee immediately clicked. Within his first semester on campus, Hammeke was calling UNK Athletics events for KLPR. He was also hired by NRG Media as a board operator and color commentator for Kearney High School football games.

“The experience that I was able to gain here basically fast-tracked where I am professionally within radio,” Hammeke said. “Being in a smaller environment where I was able to hone my skills and get that hands-on experience really accelerated my career.”

Hammeke was part of the KLPR sports staff throughout his time at UNK, co-hosting the weekly “Throwin’ Lopes” talk show and calling games for several UNK teams. One of his favorite moments was the historic Volleyball Day in Nebraska, when 92,003 people packed Memorial Stadium in Lincoln to watch matches featuring the Lopers, Huskers, Wayne State College and University of Nebraska at Omaha, setting a record for the most-attended women’s sports event ever.

Along with his involvement on the athletics side, Hammeke served as the KLPR news director for two years and music director for one year. He launched and hosted programs such as “KLPR Daybreak,” a morning news show; “Mitchell Center Live,” a weekly talk show featuring prominent alumni, NU and UNK administrators and other guests; and “Final Thoughts with Hammer,” a news editorial that allowed him to share his opinions.

On top of all that, he covered a variety of campus news and events, including Faculty Senate and student government.

“If there was breaking news on campus, more than likely I was covering it here on KLPR,” said Hammeke, who also served as a sports writer and news editor for The Antelope student newspaper.

He earned awards from the Nebraska Broadcasters Association and was a national finalist in the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Media Awards competition.

“Alex has tremendous skill in everything as it pertains to broadcasting,” said Clark, who recently accepted a faculty position at Briar Cliff University. “He has incredible knowledge of the profession and tremendous on-air skill, he is a wonderful interviewer and he is easy to work with. I could go on and on. He will be successful for a long, long time.”

He’s the general manager of NRG Media in central Nebraska, overseeing three radio stations in Kearney and two in Grand Island, plus a news site and other digital assets.

Nau calls Hammeke a “do what needs to be done” guy with a great attitude.

“Alex is a very talented, personable, team player who is a joy to work with,” Nau said. “He is very much a utility player, as they say in baseball.”

After two years in a part-time role, Hammeke was offered a full-time position with the media company in December 2023. Currently, he’s a midday host on Hits 106, afternoon personality on Y102 and play-by-play announcer on KGFW while also serving as interim sports director for all five NRG stations.

“Basically, if you were to turn on any radio station in town, wait five minutes and you might hear me,” Hammeke said with a smile.

That’s still pretty hard for him to believe.

“If you were to tell me three years ago when I first stepped foot on this campus that I would have a full-time job before getting a diploma, I think I’d slap you and call you crazy,” he said.

Hammeke’s “wild ride” at UNK came to an end last week, when he graduated honorable mention with a bachelor’s degree in sports communication and a minor in sound recording technology. He represented the College of Arts and Sciences as a gonfalonier during the commencement ceremony.

Nau and Clark both believe he has the passion and skills to do whatever he wants in the industry, and everyone is thankful that the former middle school tennis player ended up on the radio in Kearney.

“I’m really happy where I am right now,” Hammeke said. “I couldn’t have found a better community than Kearney to start off in. I don’t really think I want to go anyplace else.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723571000770.jpeg" alt="Alex Hammeke works for NRG Media in central Nebraska as a midday host, afternoon personality and play-by-play announcer. “Basically, if you were to turn on any radio station in town, wait five minutes and you might hear me.” (Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)" />
 <figcaption>Alex Hammeke works for NRG Media in central Nebraska as a midday host, afternoon personality and play-by-play announcer. “Basically, if you were to turn on any radio station in town, wait five minutes and you might hear me.” (Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER ELLYSON UNK CommunicationsKEARNEY – Alex Hammeke was the best male tennis player at Ellinwood Middle School.That’s a nugget he often shares while talking about his athletic background.“There were six of us on the team. One guy. I just ignore the fact that the rest were girls,” he said with a laugh.Hammeke refers to himself as “not athletically gifted.” He didn’t play sports in high school. Instead, he found another way to pursue his passion.“I was not given the smarts of the family. That was given to my sister. I was given my aunt’s inability to shut up,” he joked. “And I couldn’t have found a better way to put that to good use.”With a knack for telling stories and connecting with people, Hammeke decided to enter the world of sports communication.The central Kansas native started broadcasting games in high school, first through the NFHS Network, an online platform similar to Striv, then as a color commentator for a local radio station. At nearby Barton Community College, where he earned an associate degree in sports management, Hammeke was the full-time voice for the Cougar baseball team.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723571039081.jpeg" alt="Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>“After my sophomore year of college, I was pretty much convinced that sports broadcasting is what I wanted to do,” he explained.Before he could take the next step toward that career, Hammeke needed to find a school that offered a four-year degree in this field. Naturally, he simply Googled “sports broadcasting majors near me.”“Kearney popped up. Oklahoma State popped up. If I hated both schools, I’d say screw it and just go to Wichita State. They were my fail-safe,” Hammeke said.He visited the University of Nebraska at Kearney on a cold and blustery day in January 2021. It was J term, so very few students and faculty were on campus. However, Ford Clark agreed to meet with Hammeke and his father and show them around the Department of Communication.Four days later, following a tour at Oklahoma State University with roughly 60 other students, Hammeke made his decision.“I wasn’t going to go south. I was going to go north and be a Loper,” he said. “After Ford met with me and showed me what I could do here, I was convinced this was the place to go.”HONING HIS SKILLSClark was a senior lecturer at UNK and general manager of the campus radio station, KLPR 91.1 FM, when Hammeke enrolled in fall 2021.He was excited to have an accomplished writer and broadcaster and “very cool guy” join the program.“Alex is a hilarious, hardworking, extremely intelligent person. He is also someone I would describe as having an ‘old soul,’” Clark said. “He is a throwback to a person you might think grew up in my generation. He has a love for AM radio, he loves reading paper versions of newspapers and he can talk to virtually anyone of any age. He also loves to travel and garner knowledge, and he retains knowledge like no one I have ever met.“He is truly someone unlike anyone I have ever known.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723571064449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Obviously, the former UNK faculty member and his advisee immediately clicked. Within his first semester on campus, Hammeke was calling UNK Athletics events for KLPR. He was also hired by NRG Media as a board operator and color commentator for Kearney High School football games.“The experience that I was able to gain here basically fast-tracked where I am professionally within radio,” Hammeke said. “Being in a smaller environment where I was able to hone my skills and get that hands-on experience really accelerated my career.”Hammeke was part of the KLPR sports staff throughout his time at UNK, co-hosting the weekly “Throwin’ Lopes” talk show and calling games for several UNK teams. One of his favorite moments was the historic Volleyball Day in Nebraska, when 92,003 people packed Memorial Stadium in Lincoln to watch matches featuring the Lopers, Huskers, Wayne State College and University of Nebraska at Omaha, setting a record for the most-attended women’s sports event ever.Along with his involvement on the athletics side, Hammeke served as the KLPR news director for two years and music director for one year. He launched and hosted programs such as “KLPR Daybreak,” a morning news show; “Mitchell Center Live,” a weekly talk show featuring prominent alumni, NU and UNK administrators and other guests; and “Final Thoughts with Hammer,” a news editorial that allowed him to share his opinions.On top of all that, he covered a variety of campus news and events, including Faculty Senate and student government.“If there was breaking news on campus, more than likely I was covering it here on KLPR,” said Hammeke, who also served as a sports writer and news editor for The Antelope student newspaper.He earned awards from the Nebraska Broadcasters Association and was a national finalist in the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Media Awards competition.“Alex has tremendous skill in everything as it pertains to broadcasting,” said Clark, who recently accepted a faculty position at Briar Cliff University. “He has incredible knowledge of the profession and tremendous on-air skill, he is a wonderful interviewer and he is easy to work with. I could go on and on. He will be successful for a long, long time.”VOICE OF KEARNEYDallas Nau agrees.He’s the general manager of NRG Media in central Nebraska, overseeing three radio stations in Kearney and two in Grand Island, plus a news site and other digital assets.Nau calls Hammeke a “do what needs to be done” guy with a great attitude.“Alex is a very talented, personable, team player who is a joy to work with,” Nau said. “He is very much a utility player, as they say in baseball.”After two years in a part-time role, Hammeke was offered a full-time position with the media company in December 2023. Currently, he’s a midday host on Hits 106, afternoon personality on Y102 and play-by-play announcer on KGFW while also serving as interim sports director for all five NRG stations.“Basically, if you were to turn on any radio station in town, wait five minutes and you might hear me,” Hammeke said with a smile.That’s still pretty hard for him to believe.“If you were to tell me three years ago when I first stepped foot on this campus that I would have a full-time job before getting a diploma, I think I’d slap you and call you crazy,” he said.Hammeke’s “wild ride” at UNK came to an end last week, when he graduated honorable mention with a bachelor’s degree in sports communication and a minor in sound recording technology. He represented the College of Arts and Sciences as a gonfalonier during the commencement ceremony.Nau and Clark both believe he has the passion and skills to do whatever he wants in the industry, and everyone is thankful that the former middle school tennis player ended up on the radio in Kearney.“I’m really happy where I am right now,” Hammeke said. “I couldn’t have found a better community than Kearney to start off in. I don’t really think I want to go anyplace else.”

Ellinwood's Hammeke launches broadcasting career while attending UNK

Today A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Southwest wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 91. West wind around 7 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 90. East wind 5 to 8 mph.

Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 65.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 94.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 92.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Southwest wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 91. West wind around 7 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 90. East wind 5 to 8 mph.Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 65.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 94.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 92.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Getting some property back on the county tax rolls. USD 428 announced Monday night that two of its properties are up for bid with a third to be on the market later this fall. Kevin Sundahl with Sundahl Appraisal Services appraised the former district building at 201 S. Patton Road in Great Bend and the former central kitchen building at 2201 Broadway Ave. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the surplus property can now be sold.

"One thing we thought was fair and equal for everybody to have access to was through a sealed bid process," he said. "We thought, with this information, we could set our reserve at the value offered by Kevin, then leave this open for a month, and have an opportunity for people to walk through the properties, take a look at, and place a bid on these properties if they're still interested."

The former district building on Patton Road sits on nearly eight acres of land and has a new roof. Sundahl appraised that property at $535,000. The 28,000-square-foot property on Broadway Ave. was valued at $275,000. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said the sealed bids are now being accepted on the two properties.

"Anybody who is interested, or if they have any questions, they can contact myself or Cathie (McManaman)," he said. "If they want to submit a bid, they can submit it to myself at the district office before Sept. 4 at 1 p.m. We will open those all up at the same time."

The district is also selling the former bus barn, or maintenance facility, at 2019 12th Street in Great Bend, which was valued at $130,000. With district property still inside the facility, the district plans to open that property up for bids sometime this fall.

District staff moved from the Patton location to the new District Education Center at 1809 24th Street in May. Central Kitchen and maintenance staff moved to its new location on East 10th Street in late 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594825194804.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGetting some property back on the county tax rolls. USD 428 announced Monday night that two of its properties are up for bid with a third to be on the market later this fall. Kevin Sundahl with Sundahl Appraisal Services appraised the former district building at 201 S. Patton Road in Great Bend and the former central kitchen building at 2201 Broadway Ave. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the surplus property can now be sold."One thing we thought was fair and equal for everybody to have access to was through a sealed bid process," he said. "We thought, with this information, we could set our reserve at the value offered by Kevin, then leave this open for a month, and have an opportunity for people to walk through the properties, take a look at, and place a bid on these properties if they're still interested."The former district building on Patton Road sits on nearly eight acres of land and has a new roof. Sundahl appraised that property at $535,000. The 28,000-square-foot property on Broadway Ave. was valued at $275,000. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said the sealed bids are now being accepted on the two properties."Anybody who is interested, or if they have any questions, they can contact myself or Cathie (McManaman)," he said. "If they want to submit a bid, they can submit it to myself at the district office before Sept. 4 at 1 p.m. We will open those all up at the same time."The district is also selling the former bus barn, or maintenance facility, at 2019 12th Street in Great Bend, which was valued at $130,000. With district property still inside the facility, the district plans to open that property up for bids sometime this fall.District staff moved from the Patton location to the new District Education Center at 1809 24th Street in May. Central Kitchen and maintenance staff moved to its new location on East 10th Street in late 2023.

USD 428 putting two Great Bend properties up for bid

When someone suffers a personal trauma and cannot cope with the situation, they may not know where to turn for help.

Since administrators at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation understand this dilemma, they now offer a new option for people in crisis.

Laura Patzner, a Great Bend native, is filling the new position of crisis case manager at The Center, a non-profit agency at 5815 Broadway.

“My priority every day is to help folks in crisis,” Patzner said. “I can help people identify their strengths, learn coping strategies and find their center. This enables them to engage or re-engage with their therapists and case managers.

“I am here for current and potential clients at The Center where I work in consultation with my colleagues.”

A crisis can include anything that disrupts somebody’s ability to cope. For example, it could relate to the death of a loved one, a serious injury or illness, or any other traumatic event.

Coping skills and their benefits include:

· Deep breathing calms the person and reduces the flight response;

· Grounding techniques bring the focus back to the present; and

· Striking the “warrior pose” demonstrates strength and confidence.

“These techniques and others are part of what is usually a short-term intervention that gives someone the ability to move forward,” Patzner explained. “I will use anything at my disposal that is evidence-based to support someone in crisis.”

Patzner’s goals include providing services as efficiently as possible and “engaging with community partners to understand how we can support one another.”

One of the main reasons she is glad to join The Center is the expansion of its services in the past couple of years. This expansion has led to full licensure as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC).

A CCBHC provides integrated, client-centered care; it is a multi-disciplinary program.

“This demonstrates The Center is focused on the whole person,” Patzner explained. “A CCBHC offers many therapies, as well as guidance with housing, employment, veterans’ issues and medication-assisted treatment. It is really gratifying to be part of this great team.”

Patzner has a varied background that includes training in many areas such as trauma response, criminal-justice response, community advocacy, prevention strategies and organizational leadership.

After earning a Barton Community College associate’s degree in liberal studies later this year, Patzner will begin a three-year program in January at Fort Hays State University for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work.

Her goals are to secure a license to counsel people with substance-use disorder and ultimately become a licensed clinical social worker, with a focus on crisis therapy.

“Continuing education is just part of my life, part of my journey,” commented Patzner, a 1984 Great Bend High School graduate.

Her professional background includes 10 years as executive director of the Family Crisis Center, one-stop operator at Kansas WorkforceONE and program director at Safehope in Newton.

Patzner also is part of the Central Kansas Critical Incident Team, which includes first responders, clinicians and interventionists who support people after a traumatic event.

Julie Kramp, The Center’s executive director, said the new position of crisis case manager “provides the flexibility to respond to needs throughout the day. While all our case managers can assist with a crisis, they are typically seeing clients during the workday and may not be able to respond as quickly as we would like.

“Laura has a calming demeanor, tons of experience and is adept at helping individuals work through situations toward a positive outcome,” Kramp added. “She is a great collaborator and works well with a treatment team to address crisis situations and follow up on them. I don’t think you could have a conversation with Laura and not walk away feeling better.”

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723478803061.jpeg" alt="Laura Patzner joins The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation staff as the first-ever crisis case manager." />
 <figcaption>Laura Patzner joins The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation staff as the first-ever crisis case manager.</figcaption>
 </figure>When someone suffers a personal trauma and cannot cope with the situation, they may not know where to turn for help.Since administrators at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation understand this dilemma, they now offer a new option for people in crisis.Laura Patzner, a Great Bend native, is filling the new position of crisis case manager at The Center, a non-profit agency at 5815 Broadway.“My priority every day is to help folks in crisis,” Patzner said. “I can help people identify their strengths, learn coping strategies and find their center. This enables them to engage or re-engage with their therapists and case managers.“I am here for current and potential clients at The Center where I work in consultation with my colleagues.”A crisis can include anything that disrupts somebody’s ability to cope. For example, it could relate to the death of a loved one, a serious injury or illness, or any other traumatic event.Coping skills and their benefits include:· Deep breathing calms the person and reduces the flight response;· Grounding techniques bring the focus back to the present; and· Striking the “warrior pose” demonstrates strength and confidence.“These techniques and others are part of what is usually a short-term intervention that gives someone the ability to move forward,” Patzner explained. “I will use anything at my disposal that is evidence-based to support someone in crisis.”Patzner’s goals include providing services as efficiently as possible and “engaging with community partners to understand how we can support one another.”One of the main reasons she is glad to join The Center is the expansion of its services in the past couple of years. This expansion has led to full licensure as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC).A CCBHC provides integrated, client-centered care; it is a multi-disciplinary program.“This demonstrates The Center is focused on the whole person,” Patzner explained. “A CCBHC offers many therapies, as well as guidance with housing, employment, veterans’ issues and medication-assisted treatment. It is really gratifying to be part of this great team.”Patzner has a varied background that includes training in many areas such as trauma response, criminal-justice response, community advocacy, prevention strategies and organizational leadership.After earning a Barton Community College associate’s degree in liberal studies later this year, Patzner will begin a three-year program in January at Fort Hays State University for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work.Her goals are to secure a license to counsel people with substance-use disorder and ultimately become a licensed clinical social worker, with a focus on crisis therapy.“Continuing education is just part of my life, part of my journey,” commented Patzner, a 1984 Great Bend High School graduate.Her professional background includes 10 years as executive director of the Family Crisis Center, one-stop operator at Kansas WorkforceONE and program director at Safehope in Newton.Patzner also is part of the Central Kansas Critical Incident Team, which includes first responders, clinicians and interventionists who support people after a traumatic event.Julie Kramp, The Center’s executive director, said the new position of crisis case manager “provides the flexibility to respond to needs throughout the day. While all our case managers can assist with a crisis, they are typically seeing clients during the workday and may not be able to respond as quickly as we would like.“Laura has a calming demeanor, tons of experience and is adept at helping individuals work through situations toward a positive outcome,” Kramp added. “She is a great collaborator and works well with a treatment team to address crisis situations and follow up on them. I don’t think you could have a conversation with Laura and not walk away feeling better.”The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

Patzner fills new crisis case manager position at The Center

Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.

The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2024 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.

Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.

A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection is the Kansas Wheat Variety Performance Tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at www.cottonwood.ksu.edu click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.

The Colorado Wheat Trials Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2024 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection is the Kansas Wheat Variety Performance Tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at www.cottonwood.ksu.edu click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.The Colorado Wheat Trials Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2024 is now available

News From the Oil Patch, Aug. 12 John P. Tretbar

The Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association, KIOGA, holds its annual convention and Expo August 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency and Century Two in downtown Wichita. The yearly get-together features a trade show, industry seminars and all manner of social gatherings, including golf, sporting clays, and bingo. Find out more online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>.

After a week of slow gains, crude prices spiked on Monday. The NYMEX settlement price for WTI (Sep'24) on Friday (8/9) was $76.84 per barrel, up $3.32 on the week. Prices were four percent higher Monday afternoon at $79.71 per barrel, topping $79 for the first time since mid July.US crude production increased to 13,415,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the week through August 2. That's the highest weekly production average ever reported by the US Energy Information Administration. Four-week average production is up more than eight percent from last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent.

Crude production through May of this year averaged 13.18 million bpd nationwide. The latest numbers from the Energy Information Administration show Kansas pumping 75,480 bpd in May, placing the Sunflower State 12th in the state rankings.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up three oil rigs but down one seeking natural gas for a total of 588 rigs. The count in Texas was up two. New Mexico was down one rig. Colorado was up one and Wyoming was up two rigs from a week ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged east of Wichita at 12 rigs, and up one at 18 rigs in Western Kansas. The statewide tally is down 29% from a year ago. Drilling was underway or about to start on a lease in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth on the second Ellis County well in as many weeks.

Operators completed 46 wells across Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 in eastern Kansas and 33 west of Wichita, including one in Butler County, one in Ellis County and two in Russell County. That's 791 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 1,063 a year ago at this time.

Kansas regulators okayed 13 permits for drilling at new locations statewide in the week through August 8, with six in Western Kansas. That's 604 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 762 by this time last year.

The US Imported more crude oil than we exported last week by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd). Petroleum product exports outpaced imports by 4.7 million bpd. US crude imports averaged 6.2 million bpd, dropping 729,000 daily barrels from a week ago. Four week average imports are up 49,000 daily barrels to just under 6.8 million. Domestic exports are down 1.3 million barrels from a week ago at 3.6 million bpd. The four-week average is up 165,000 bpd from a year ago.

Commercial crude oil inventories dropped by 3.7 million barrels (bbl) from the previous week to just over 429 million bbl. This is the sixth consecutive weekly decline in crude stockpiles, which are down more than 31 million bbl since June. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The weekly government dip-stick at the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows 375.8 million bbl of crude. That's 28 million bbl in refills in the last year and 700,000 bbl in the last week.&nbsp; At recent prices, the government is, by selling high and buying low, reaping a net profit of more than $20 per barrel. That's more than $14 million for the week, and more than $200 million since April.

The Association of American Railroads reports an eight percent spike in US oil-by-rail shipments in July, despite a two percent drop in total carload originations. AAR reports 12 of the 20 commodity categories they track saw carload gains compared with last year. That includes petroleum and petroleum products, which rose by more than four-thousand carloads for an increase of eight-and-a-half percent over a year ago. Weekly US oil-by-rail traffic is up more than 17% from a year ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News From the Oil Patch, Aug. 12 John P. TretbarThe Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association, KIOGA, holds its annual convention and Expo August 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency and Century Two in downtown Wichita. The yearly get-together features a trade show, industry seminars and all manner of social gatherings, including golf, sporting clays, and bingo. Find out more online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>.After a week of slow gains, crude prices spiked on Monday. The NYMEX settlement price for WTI (Sep'24) on Friday (8/9) was $76.84 per barrel, up $3.32 on the week. Prices were four percent higher Monday afternoon at $79.71 per barrel, topping $79 for the first time since mid July.US crude production increased to 13,415,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the week through August 2. That's the highest weekly production average ever reported by the US Energy Information Administration. Four-week average production is up more than eight percent from last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent.Crude production through May of this year averaged 13.18 million bpd nationwide. The latest numbers from the Energy Information Administration show Kansas pumping 75,480 bpd in May, placing the Sunflower State 12th in the state rankings.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up three oil rigs but down one seeking natural gas for a total of 588 rigs. The count in Texas was up two. New Mexico was down one rig. Colorado was up one and Wyoming was up two rigs from a week ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged east of Wichita at 12 rigs, and up one at 18 rigs in Western Kansas. The statewide tally is down 29% from a year ago. Drilling was underway or about to start on a lease in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth on the second Ellis County well in as many weeks.Operators completed 46 wells across Kansas last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 in eastern Kansas and 33 west of Wichita, including one in Butler County, one in Ellis County and two in Russell County. That's 791 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 1,063 a year ago at this time.Kansas regulators okayed 13 permits for drilling at new locations statewide in the week through August 8, with six in Western Kansas. That's 604 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 762 by this time last year.The US Imported more crude oil than we exported last week by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd). Petroleum product exports outpaced imports by 4.7 million bpd. US crude imports averaged 6.2 million bpd, dropping 729,000 daily barrels from a week ago. Four week average imports are up 49,000 daily barrels to just under 6.8 million. Domestic exports are down 1.3 million barrels from a week ago at 3.6 million bpd. The four-week average is up 165,000 bpd from a year ago.Commercial crude oil inventories dropped by 3.7 million barrels (bbl) from the previous week to just over 429 million bbl. This is the sixth consecutive weekly decline in crude stockpiles, which are down more than 31 million bbl since June. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The weekly government dip-stick at the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows 375.8 million bbl of crude. That's 28 million bbl in refills in the last year and 700,000 bbl in the last week.&nbsp; At recent prices, the government is, by selling high and buying low, reaping a net profit of more than $20 per barrel. That's more than $14 million for the week, and more than $200 million since April.The Association of American Railroads reports an eight percent spike in US oil-by-rail shipments in July, despite a two percent drop in total carload originations. AAR reports 12 of the 20 commodity categories they track saw carload gains compared with last year. That includes petroleum and petroleum products, which rose by more than four-thousand carloads for an increase of eight-and-a-half percent over a year ago. Weekly US oil-by-rail traffic is up more than 17% from a year ago.

News from the Oil Patch: Stockpiles drop, production jumps

On Tuesday, Aug. 13, at about 8:15 a.m., emergency personnel were dispatched to the Great Bend Municipal Airport. 911 Dispatch received calls about an accidental electrocution in that area.

A roofing company was working on the main hangar near the terminal building. Upon arrival, crews discovered two victims. Investigation indicates the two men were in a bucket on an aerial boom when they came into contact with high-voltage power lines. One of the individuals managed to get onto the roof and was able to reach the ground. The second victim was still in the bucket on the boom and was nonresponsive.

By 8:48 a.m., power was shut off and rescue personnel were able to reach the second victim. Both victims were transported to The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus.

The first victim, identified as Allistar Jose Sanchez, age 24 of Wichita, received serious burns in the incident. He was later transported by aircraft to a Wichita area hospital. The second victim, identified as Ivan Joel Mollins, age 16, also of Wichita, was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Because the accident occurred on city property and involved a city building, the Great Bend Police Department requested that the Sheriff’s Office handle the investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Great Bend Police Department, Great Bend Fire Department and EMS and Midwest Energy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723575054890.jpeg" alt="photo by Cameron Sweitzer" />
 <figcaption>photo by Cameron Sweitzer</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Aug. 13, at about 8:15 a.m., emergency personnel were dispatched to the Great Bend Municipal Airport. 911 Dispatch received calls about an accidental electrocution in that area.A roofing company was working on the main hangar near the terminal building. Upon arrival, crews discovered two victims. Investigation indicates the two men were in a bucket on an aerial boom when they came into contact with high-voltage power lines. One of the individuals managed to get onto the roof and was able to reach the ground. The second victim was still in the bucket on the boom and was nonresponsive.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723575115607.jpeg" alt="photo by Cameron Sweitzer" />
 <figcaption>photo by Cameron Sweitzer</figcaption>
 </figure>By 8:48 a.m., power was shut off and rescue personnel were able to reach the second victim. Both victims were transported to The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus.The first victim, identified as Allistar Jose Sanchez, age 24 of Wichita, received serious burns in the incident. He was later transported by aircraft to a Wichita area hospital. The second victim, identified as Ivan Joel Mollins, age 16, also of Wichita, was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.Because the accident occurred on city property and involved a city building, the Great Bend Police Department requested that the Sheriff’s Office handle the investigation.The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Great Bend Police Department, Great Bend Fire Department and EMS and Midwest Energy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723575185846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

One death from electrocution incident at Great Bend airport

Residents of Barton County began receiving their revenue-neutral tax notices over the weekend. While Barton County is listed among the taxing entities at the top of the document, the board of commissioners has insisted on its goal of remaining revenue neutral in 2025 - or collecting fewer tax dollars than the year before. Tuesday morning, the board did just that by approving the 2025 budget at $39,071 less than the 2024 budget. County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the new budget in a special hearing before the regular meeting.

"It is my privilege to present the proposed 2025 Barton County Operating Budget to the commission today," he said. "This budget is the organizational blueprint to maintain delivery of quality public services at an affordable cost to the taxpayer."

The county used an assessed value of $320,986,564 for its mill levy for 2025, compared to $292,490,734 last year. The budget dropped the mill levy from 37.146 mills last year to 35.767 mills for 2025. Since 2021, that means Barton County has lowered its mill levy 10.551 mills and collected $265,905 fewer in ad-valorem taxes in that span.

"In summary, the 2025 budget is funded by a mill levy that is 1.379 mills less than the previous year and consistent with our prescribed revenue-neutral rate which generates $11,959,821," Patzner said. "This was made possible with careful planning and the foresight to begin 2024 with a sufficient level of cash carryforward to deal with project costs, inflation, and ever-increasing contract and commodity prices while still making a healthy transfer into reserves for the future."

Of the $25,199,650 in expenditure authority of budgeted funds, 59 percent is either public safety, public works, or public health. Depending on where a resident lives in the county, 18-23 percent of property taxes paid this year will go to Barton County. That is down two percent from last year. Overall, the county needs 51 percent of its funding to balance its 2025 budget, also down two percent from a year ago. If the trend continues in 2026, the county would require less than half of its budget to come from property taxes for the first time in recent memory, if ever.

Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson asked if policies enacted by the commission in recent years are a driving force behind the changes.

"Absolutely," Patzner said. "Going through this process, you talk about those things in the abstract as you're coming up with them. Going through this process, laying it out, and creating the charts, you're actually starting to see the fruits of our labor."

Those projects include the Façade Improvement Grants, with which the county invested more than $1 million into downtown businesses, generating more than $2 million in total investment. The county has also cut nine positions due to attrition while being able to pay current employees more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723570028159.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostResidents of Barton County began receiving their revenue-neutral tax notices over the weekend. While Barton County is listed among the taxing entities at the top of the document, the board of commissioners has insisted on its goal of remaining revenue neutral in 2025 - or collecting fewer tax dollars than the year before. Tuesday morning, the board did just that by approving the 2025 budget at $39,071 less than the 2024 budget. County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the new budget in a special hearing before the regular meeting."It is my privilege to present the proposed 2025 Barton County Operating Budget to the commission today," he said. "This budget is the organizational blueprint to maintain delivery of quality public services at an affordable cost to the taxpayer."The county used an assessed value of $320,986,564 for its mill levy for 2025, compared to $292,490,734 last year. The budget dropped the mill levy from 37.146 mills last year to 35.767 mills for 2025. Since 2021, that means Barton County has lowered its mill levy 10.551 mills and collected $265,905 fewer in ad-valorem taxes in that span."In summary, the 2025 budget is funded by a mill levy that is 1.379 mills less than the previous year and consistent with our prescribed revenue-neutral rate which generates $11,959,821," Patzner said. "This was made possible with careful planning and the foresight to begin 2024 with a sufficient level of cash carryforward to deal with project costs, inflation, and ever-increasing contract and commodity prices while still making a healthy transfer into reserves for the future."Of the $25,199,650 in expenditure authority of budgeted funds, 59 percent is either public safety, public works, or public health. Depending on where a resident lives in the county, 18-23 percent of property taxes paid this year will go to Barton County. That is down two percent from last year. Overall, the county needs 51 percent of its funding to balance its 2025 budget, also down two percent from a year ago. If the trend continues in 2026, the county would require less than half of its budget to come from property taxes for the first time in recent memory, if ever.Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson asked if policies enacted by the commission in recent years are a driving force behind the changes."Absolutely," Patzner said. "Going through this process, you talk about those things in the abstract as you're coming up with them. Going through this process, laying it out, and creating the charts, you're actually starting to see the fruits of our labor."Those projects include the Façade Improvement Grants, with which the county invested more than $1 million into downtown businesses, generating more than $2 million in total investment. The county has also cut nine positions due to attrition while being able to pay current employees more.

Barton County approves 2025 budget at $39K less than 2024 budget

Barton County has completed various projects or has several in the works to improve roadway safety and the quality of driving through the county. In April, County Engineer Barry McManaman announced a Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) High-Risk Rural Roads Project that will include analysis of no-passing zones and signing improvement on 77 miles of county roads.

"It's nice to get these no-passing zones pinned down to where they actually should begin and end," he said. "It's a safety thing. Another thing is, if we were to apply for a project on one of our asphalt roads - for example, if we wanted to do a sign-replacement project that included replacing the existing no-passing pennants - one of their requirements has become you have to have a no-passing zone study that's documented. You have to have an engineering study."

The Barton County Road and Bridge Department does overlay and seal work on approximately one-fourth of the county roads each year. That work will take place in the southwest quadrant of the county in 2025, and that's where McManaman chose to have the study completed. No-passing zone studies are based on several variables, including speed. On a county blacktop with a 55-mile-per-hour speed limit, the study used to be completed by two vehicles separated by 900 feet of rope. The front car had a target three and a half feet off the ground.

"When the lead vehicle went over the crest of a hill, and when that target disappeared, that's when your no-passing zone starts," McManaman said. "You'd keep driving until the following vehicle got to the top of the hill enough to where they could once again see the target on the lead vehicle. That's where the no-passing zone ends."

The rope method has been replaced with more advanced technology to make roads even safer. Ellsworth's Kirkham Michael won the bid to do the study in Barton County next year. Once complete, KDOT will advertise the project and a contractor will complete the work next summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714501971078.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBarton County has completed various projects or has several in the works to improve roadway safety and the quality of driving through the county. In April, County Engineer Barry McManaman announced a Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) High-Risk Rural Roads Project that will include analysis of no-passing zones and signing improvement on 77 miles of county roads."It's nice to get these no-passing zones pinned down to where they actually should begin and end," he said. "It's a safety thing. Another thing is, if we were to apply for a project on one of our asphalt roads - for example, if we wanted to do a sign-replacement project that included replacing the existing no-passing pennants - one of their requirements has become you have to have a no-passing zone study that's documented. You have to have an engineering study."The Barton County Road and Bridge Department does overlay and seal work on approximately one-fourth of the county roads each year. That work will take place in the southwest quadrant of the county in 2025, and that's where McManaman chose to have the study completed. No-passing zone studies are based on several variables, including speed. On a county blacktop with a 55-mile-per-hour speed limit, the study used to be completed by two vehicles separated by 900 feet of rope. The front car had a target three and a half feet off the ground."When the lead vehicle went over the crest of a hill, and when that target disappeared, that's when your no-passing zone starts," McManaman said. "You'd keep driving until the following vehicle got to the top of the hill enough to where they could once again see the target on the lead vehicle. That's where the no-passing zone ends."The rope method has been replaced with more advanced technology to make roads even safer. Ellsworth's Kirkham Michael won the bid to do the study in Barton County next year. Once complete, KDOT will advertise the project and a contractor will complete the work next summer.

Barton County utilizing KDOT's High-Risk Rural Roads Program

BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Aug. 13 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOM

1. July Financial Statement – Mark Dean

2. FY25 Budget Update – Mark Dean

3. Health Insurance Update – Mark Dean

4. HOSA (Future Health Professionals) – Karen Gunther

5. Fall Semester Report – Angie Maddy

6. Review Trustee Applications &amp; Candidate Introductions/Interview – Mike Johnson

7. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Agreements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Articulation Agreement/2 + 2 with Upper Iowa University-Extended University; Fayette, IA campus or Online and Center Locations &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Student Support Services &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Acceptance under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Creative Arts &amp; Industries Commission: Specific Arts &amp; Culture Projects &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Board of Regents – Kansas Nursing Initiative: for professional development, pediatric simulator and lab supplies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Board of Regents – Perkins Local: to support Perkins approved Workforce Training Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • STEM – GEOPaths grant subaward; Kansas State University - amendment &nbsp; &nbsp; Nursing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Ellinwood Hospital; Ellinwood, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Grand Plains Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fresenius Kidney Care; Great Bend, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; EMS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • McPherson Hospital, Inc.; McPherson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Norton County Hospital; Norton, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT &amp; Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Geisinger Medical Center; Danville PA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Davis County Hospital and Clinics; Bloomfield, IA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Pratt Regional Medical Center; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • LabOne, LLC Quest Diagnostics, Great Midwest Region; Lenexa, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Yuma District Hospital and Clinics; Yuma, CO &nbsp; &nbsp; Adult Healthcare &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community; Manhattan, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; Military Academics, Technical Education and Outreach Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • National Partnership for Environmental Technical Education (NPETE) – for Hazardous Waste Worker Training (HWWT) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • National Partnership for Environmental Technical Education (NPETE) – for Hazmat Disaster Preparedness Training Program (HDPTP Training) &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • PRMC Bone and Joint; Pratt, KS

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 </figure>BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Aug. 13 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOMDiscussion Topics1. July Financial Statement – Mark Dean2. FY25 Budget Update – Mark Dean3. Health Insurance Update – Mark Dean4. HOSA (Future Health Professionals) – Karen Gunther5. Fall Semester Report – Angie Maddy6. Review Trustee Applications &amp; Candidate Introductions/Interview – Mike Johnson7. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Agreements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Articulation Agreement/2 + 2 with Upper Iowa University-Extended University; Fayette, IA campus or Online and Center Locations &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Student Support Services &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Acceptance under $50,000 Institutional Obligation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Creative Arts &amp; Industries Commission: Specific Arts &amp; Culture Projects &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Board of Regents – Kansas Nursing Initiative: for professional development, pediatric simulator and lab supplies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Board of Regents – Perkins Local: to support Perkins approved Workforce Training Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • STEM – GEOPaths grant subaward; Kansas State University - amendment &nbsp; &nbsp; Nursing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Ellinwood Hospital; Ellinwood, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Grand Plains Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fresenius Kidney Care; Great Bend, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; EMS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • McPherson Hospital, Inc.; McPherson, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Norton County Hospital; Norton, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT &amp; Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Geisinger Medical Center; Danville PA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Davis County Hospital and Clinics; Bloomfield, IA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Pratt Regional Medical Center; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • LabOne, LLC Quest Diagnostics, Great Midwest Region; Lenexa, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Yuma District Hospital and Clinics; Yuma, CO &nbsp; &nbsp; Adult Healthcare &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community; Manhattan, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; Military Academics, Technical Education and Outreach Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • National Partnership for Environmental Technical Education (NPETE) – for Hazardous Waste Worker Training (HWWT) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • National Partnership for Environmental Technical Education (NPETE) – for Hazmat Disaster Preparedness Training Program (HDPTP Training) &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • PRMC Bone and Joint; Pratt, KS

Barton Community College Trustees study session agenda (8/13)

Twenty-six hours of driving and a pair of tornado warnings. That sums up most of the first two days of Barton County Youth Crew's trip to the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America Conference (CADCA) in Chicago last month. Youth Crew members presented details about the trip to the Barton County Commission last Tuesday. Holly Bowyer, a Youth Crew parent and board member for Central Kansas Partnership, was pleased with how the kids represented Barton County.

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 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTwenty-six hours of driving and a pair of tornado warnings. That sums up most of the first two days of Barton County Youth Crew's trip to the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America Conference (CADCA) in Chicago last month. Youth Crew members presented details about the trip to the Barton County Commission last Tuesday. Holly Bowyer, a Youth Crew parent and board member for Central Kansas Partnership, was pleased with how the kids represented Barton County."I just want to tell you that you guys should be extremely proud of these kids," she said. "Even Nichelle (Holinde) said, our first-timers, so many compliments. They were so well prepared. Barton County does an awesome job with the training aspects of Youth Crew and what it's all about. A lot of those groups had never done some of the things they did at the conference. Our youth were well-prepared."The conference was held July 15-18. The group left at 4 a.m. and arrived in Chicago at 5 p.m., only to find themselves in a tornado warning. The next day, the group had to wait out another tornado warning while attending a performance by Blue Man Group.<figure>
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 </figure>Juvenile Services Prevention Advocate Tyler Morton shared with the commission a letter from another attendee at the conference. The woman had traveled to Chicago alone from Minnesota and was having a difficult time until running into the Barton County group."When you see these students who are in Chicago, without their parents, talking to people around them - not just their peers but locals and other travelers with such confidence - when you get to be silly with them, when you get the chance to see them before you leave and they ask you for a group photo and tell you they have adopted you into your family."Eight Youth Crew members attended the conference, including five first-timers who spent time in the key essentials track. Two second-time members attended breakout or progressive prevention sessions, and Morton and three-time attendee Jasmine Figueroa attended the National Youth Advisory track.Figueroa and Hoisington freshman MaKiah Weber were selected to attend meetings about Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLINK), and CADCA will pay for Figueroa to travel to Washington, D.C. in October to speak at a conference.Other attendees in Chicago were: GBHS senior Damian Palma, Ellinwood junior Alvin Bowyer, GBHS sophomore Jamesray Short, GBHS freshman Brooklyn Cooley, Great Bend eighth grader Branson Holinde, and Hoisington seventh grader Mya Brewer.