Weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Hot, dry summers increase the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season. Cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival, but if the following spring is warm and wet, egg hatching will increase, and more nymphs survive. So, several years of hot, dry summers followed by warm, wet springs can eventually lead to large populations of grasshoppers in some regions.

Weather patterns, along with abundant grassy and broad-leaf weeds, have supported the presence of large grasshopper populations in western and central Kansas this year. Most crops are likely mature enough to withstand some defoliation as summer continues. However, 5 to 8 grasshoppers per square yard in corn or sorghum fields may warrant treatment.

Fall-planted crops: Alfalfa and wheat

Later this season, fall-planted crops could be at risk, especially as alternate food sources are controlled or go dormant. In areas with larger grasshopper populations, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.

Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.

Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted 10 days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, 3 or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat will need to be protected.

In either crop, multiple applications might be necessary depending on the products used and the severity of the season’s grasshopper buildup. Please refer to the most recent Insect Management Guides for specific control information or search corn, sorghum, alfalfa, or wheat KSU insect management guide on your internet browser.

Information provided by Anthony Zukoff, Extension Entomology Associate – Garden City.

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>Weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Hot, dry summers increase the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season. Cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival, but if the following spring is warm and wet, egg hatching will increase, and more nymphs survive. So, several years of hot, dry summers followed by warm, wet springs can eventually lead to large populations of grasshoppers in some regions.Weather patterns, along with abundant grassy and broad-leaf weeds, have supported the presence of large grasshopper populations in western and central Kansas this year. Most crops are likely mature enough to withstand some defoliation as summer continues. However, 5 to 8 grasshoppers per square yard in corn or sorghum fields may warrant treatment.Fall-planted crops: Alfalfa and wheatLater this season, fall-planted crops could be at risk, especially as alternate food sources are controlled or go dormant. In areas with larger grasshopper populations, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted 10 days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, 3 or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat will need to be protected.In either crop, multiple applications might be necessary depending on the products used and the severity of the season’s grasshopper buildup. Please refer to the most recent Insect Management Guides for specific control information or search corn, sorghum, alfalfa, or wheat KSU insect management guide on your internet browser.Information provided by Anthony Zukoff, Extension Entomology Associate – Garden City.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: Grasshopper populations in Kansas remain elevated

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

For the Great Bend City Council, there is one contested race that will
be decided in the election this fall. Incumbents Kevyn Soupiset, Davis Jimenez
and Tina Mingenback are all running uncontested races. In Ward 1, incumbent
Lindsey Krom-Craven has a challenger in Gary Parr. 


Parr virtually attended last week’s Candidate Forum hosted at the Great Bend Senior
Center by the local League of Women Voters. Parr said as a lifelong citizen of Great
Bend, he felt it was his duty to keep his finger on the pulse on what is going
on in the community.


"The top priorities for our city should be our streets, infrastructure, our school district and most of all our tax-paying citizens," said Parr. "With the money being spent, a large number of us are asking the questions why, where and how."

Krom-Craven did not attend the forum but did have written statements read that
evening. She has served on the council since being appointed to the board in
March 2020.

"I want to see a priority to balance the efforts to grow our town and making what we have better," Krom-Craven said in a statement read at the forum. "People chose smaller towns knowing there may not be the newest and greatest, but they expect to have a great feeling about where they live."

You can watch the entire candidate forum below, livestreamed by Great Bend Post.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398039055.jpeg" alt="Gary Parr participated in last week's Candidate Forum hosted in Great Bend. Parr is running for a seat on the Great Bend City Council." />
 <figcaption>Gary Parr participated in last week's Candidate Forum hosted in Great Bend. Parr is running for a seat on the Great Bend City Council.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor the Great Bend City Council, there is one contested race that will
be decided in the election this fall. Incumbents Kevyn Soupiset, Davis Jimenez
and Tina Mingenback are all running uncontested races. In Ward 1, incumbent
Lindsey Krom-Craven has a challenger in Gary Parr. 
Parr virtually attended last week’s Candidate Forum hosted at the Great Bend Senior
Center by the local League of Women Voters. Parr said as a lifelong citizen of Great
Bend, he felt it was his duty to keep his finger on the pulse on what is going
on in the community.
"The top priorities for our city should be our streets, infrastructure, our school district and most of all our tax-paying citizens," said Parr. "With the money being spent, a large number of us are asking the questions why, where and how."Krom-Craven did not attend the forum but did have written statements read that
evening. She has served on the council since being appointed to the board in
March 2020."I want to see a priority to balance the efforts to grow our town and making what we have better," Krom-Craven said in a statement read at the forum. "People chose smaller towns knowing there may not be the newest and greatest, but they expect to have a great feeling about where they live."You can watch the entire candidate forum below, livestreamed by Great Bend Post.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGreatBendPost%2Fvideos%2F1210107689928196%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Parr challenging Krom-Craven in contested Great Bend council race

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.1% in June. This is an increase from 2.9% in May and an increase from 2.6% in June 2023.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 7,600 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 2,200 over the month, while government increased by 5,400.

The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 3 percent in May to 3.7 in June. The rate in Pawnee County jumped from 3 to 3. 4 percent. The rate in Rush County fell from 3.9 percent to 3.8 percent in June.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since June 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 17,900. This change is due to an increase of 15,300 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,600 government jobs.

“In June 2024, the average hourly pay for private sector workers increased by 5.2% over the year reaching $30.61,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “With inflation slowing down, the actual purchasing power of wages in Kansas increased by 2.6% over the year, while the average number of hours worked stayed the same.”

<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here</a>&nbsp;for the complete Kansas labor market information for June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721743842674.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.1% in June. This is an increase from 2.9% in May and an increase from 2.6% in June 2023.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 7,600 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 2,200 over the month, while government increased by 5,400.The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 3 percent in May to 3.7 in June. The rate in Pawnee County jumped from 3 to 3. 4 percent. The rate in Rush County fell from 3.9 percent to 3.8 percent in June.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since June 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 17,900. This change is due to an increase of 15,300 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,600 government jobs.“In June 2024, the average hourly pay for private sector workers increased by 5.2% over the year reaching $30.61,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “With inflation slowing down, the actual purchasing power of wages in Kansas increased by 2.6% over the year, while the average number of hours worked stayed the same.”<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here</a>&nbsp;for the complete Kansas labor market information for June.

Jobless rate up in Barton County, down slightly in Rush County

In 2017, a pair of female lions were brought to the Great Bend Brit
Spaugh Zoo to be companions for Luke, the male lion. For years, zookeepers
tried to peacefully introduce the lions to each other to share the exhibit. In
2021, an aggressive interaction led the zoo staff to keep them separated and
take turns on which animals were out in the yard. 

A second exhibit was created next
to the existing lion yard this past winter so all the lions can be out at the
same time. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick still monitors the large cats’
interaction.


"Somedays they will be lying by each other and other days they'll be a little grumpy toward each other," said Burdick. "It depends on the day."

The Great Bend Zoological Society purchased the second lion exhibit. Through the
city’s quality-of-life sales tax funds, the zoo is also adding sidewalk and new
fencing around the lion exhibit.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We built the exhibit that way in case we ever did decide they could coexist in one yard," said Burdick. "The middle wall could come down and it would be one big yard. Also for future planning, if we get a different group of lions then we could have one big yard if we needed it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659622312843.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 2017, a pair of female lions were brought to the Great Bend Brit
Spaugh Zoo to be companions for Luke, the male lion. For years, zookeepers
tried to peacefully introduce the lions to each other to share the exhibit. In
2021, an aggressive interaction led the zoo staff to keep them separated and
take turns on which animals were out in the yard. A second exhibit was created next
to the existing lion yard this past winter so all the lions can be out at the
same time. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick still monitors the large cats’
interaction.
"Somedays they will be lying by each other and other days they'll be a little grumpy toward each other," said Burdick. "It depends on the day."The Great Bend Zoological Society purchased the second lion exhibit. Through the
city’s quality-of-life sales tax funds, the zoo is also adding sidewalk and new
fencing around the lion exhibit.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"We built the exhibit that way in case we ever did decide they could coexist in one yard," said Burdick. "The middle wall could come down and it would be one big yard. Also for future planning, if we get a different group of lions then we could have one big yard if we needed it."

New fencing, sidewalks around lion exhibit at Great Bend zoo

You have a long to-do list and not enough time in the day to get everything done. Most Americans would agree that this is a regular dilemma. So, we often try to solve this problem by multitasking. Whether it’s eating lunch while replying to emails or making a grocery list while talking on the phone, we are all guilty of multitasking whether we realize it or not.

If you’ve ever noticed that you’re ineffective while multitasking, that’s probably because the human brain is unable to do it. In fact, MIT professor, Dr. Earl Miller, explains, “The brain is incapable of simultaneously processing separate streams of information from multiple tasks.” When we try to multitask, what we are actually doing is inefficiently “task-switching.”

As you can see, productivity suffers when we multitask, but this is not the only consequence of it. Another short-term effect includes overindulgence, and in the long run, this can wreak havoc on health.

It might seem strange to think that multitasking can lead to overindulgence, but research indicates that distraction causes a person to crave more of what they miss out on. For example, if a person plays sudoku while eating lunch, they aren’t fully satisfied by solving the puzzle or their meal. In fact, people who multitask while eating tend to overindulge in food throughout the day. Or, people who scroll through social media while watching TV tend to engage in both activities more frequently.

This concept can also apply to gambling, gaming, and drinking alcohol, so it’s crucial to be mindful when we take part in activities that release “feel good” hormones such as dopamine. Or else we may have the urge to overindulge later on.

To combat this, being mindful can help us to savor the moment and anything we may be doing. While mindfulness is a simple concept, it’s difficult to practice in the midst of a busy day. Here are two tips to stay focused on the present moment.

Start the day off right. First thing in the morning, focus on body sensations for a few minutes. This can include tingling, sleepiness, thirst, and more. You can also tune into sensory stimulations like smell, sight, and sound. These practices are intended to help you notice what is happening to you and around you.

Walking meditation is another structured activity that can help to build a greater sense of mindfulness. Focus on the movement of walking and take in the environment. For example, listen to the chirping birds and notice the warmth of sunshine. Redirect any wandering thoughts to your current experience.

In today’s world of constant distraction, mindfulness is no easy task. But, if we slowed down to savor the things we enjoy, maybe we would be more satisfied and healthier overall.

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>You have a long to-do list and not enough time in the day to get everything done. Most Americans would agree that this is a regular dilemma. So, we often try to solve this problem by multitasking. Whether it’s eating lunch while replying to emails or making a grocery list while talking on the phone, we are all guilty of multitasking whether we realize it or not.If you’ve ever noticed that you’re ineffective while multitasking, that’s probably because the human brain is unable to do it. In fact, MIT professor, Dr. Earl Miller, explains, “The brain is incapable of simultaneously processing separate streams of information from multiple tasks.” When we try to multitask, what we are actually doing is inefficiently “task-switching.”As you can see, productivity suffers when we multitask, but this is not the only consequence of it. Another short-term effect includes overindulgence, and in the long run, this can wreak havoc on health.It might seem strange to think that multitasking can lead to overindulgence, but research indicates that distraction causes a person to crave more of what they miss out on. For example, if a person plays sudoku while eating lunch, they aren’t fully satisfied by solving the puzzle or their meal. In fact, people who multitask while eating tend to overindulge in food throughout the day. Or, people who scroll through social media while watching TV tend to engage in both activities more frequently.This concept can also apply to gambling, gaming, and drinking alcohol, so it’s crucial to be mindful when we take part in activities that release “feel good” hormones such as dopamine. Or else we may have the urge to overindulge later on.To combat this, being mindful can help us to savor the moment and anything we may be doing. While mindfulness is a simple concept, it’s difficult to practice in the midst of a busy day. Here are two tips to stay focused on the present moment.Start the day off right. First thing in the morning, focus on body sensations for a few minutes. This can include tingling, sleepiness, thirst, and more. You can also tune into sensory stimulations like smell, sight, and sound. These practices are intended to help you notice what is happening to you and around you.Walking meditation is another structured activity that can help to build a greater sense of mindfulness. Focus on the movement of walking and take in the environment. For example, listen to the chirping birds and notice the warmth of sunshine. Redirect any wandering thoughts to your current experience.In today’s world of constant distraction, mindfulness is no easy task. But, if we slowed down to savor the things we enjoy, maybe we would be more satisfied and healthier overall.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: Multitasking to mindfulness

The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission (Commission) met for its 2024 summer board meeting July 16-17 in Garden City. The Commission meets quarterly to discuss funding opportunities, program development and strategy for advancing domestic and international sorghum markets.

These public meetings allow attendees to hear updates from state and national staff members, as well as industry leaders including Norma Ritz-Johnson, executive director of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program; Dr. Raj Khosla, head of the Agronomy Department at Kansas State University; and others, including Guy Allen, senior economist for the International Grains Program Institute at K-State; Ellen Zimmerman, industry relations director for the U.S. Grains Council; Kansas Department of Agriculture Ex-Officio Russell Plashcka; Matt Unruh, assistant director for the Kansas Water Office; and many others.

The Commission also considered leadership re-organization and re-elected its current slate of officers for the upcoming year:

● Chairman: Brant Peterson, Johnson (District 3 Southwest) ● Vice Chairman: Kevin Kniebel, White City (District 7 East Central) ● Secretary-Treasurer: Kevin Harris, Abilene (District 5 Central)

“The past year has been challenging and rewarding for Team Sorghum. Planted acres are down, but hopefully, the yield and price will improve upon harvest and as we look towards 2025. Nonetheless, I am very proud of Kansas Sorghum and the industry we represent,” said Peterson.

“It is an exciting time for the sorghum industry in many ways, with water and resource management included in most discussions.”

Peterson continued: “I have also begun my journey representing the Commission on one of the U.S. Grains Council’s Advisory A-Teams. Seeing how the Council works to promote U.S. agriculture, and being a part of that discussion is an advantage I hope to bring to Kansas farmers. I thank the Commission for their continued support.”

Chairman Peterson begins his second term as Chairman of the Commission for Fiscal Year 2025, which begins on October 1, 2024.

“The Commission benefits greatly from having a strong leadership team in these officers and we sincerely appreciate the time and service all commissioners lend to steward and invest checkoff dollars in our state on behalf of growers and for growers,” said Adam York, administrator to the Commission. “I am excited for the continued focus on the organization’s ongoing pursuit of excellence with the current Executive Committee as elected by their peers returning for a second year in their officer roles. ”

The Commission will next hold its annual budget meeting for Fiscal Year 2025 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, in Manhattan, Kansas, to consider funding allocations in research, education, outreach and more. Additionally, the process for growers to be eligible for election to all Kansas commodity commissions in USDA Crop Reporting Districts 7, 8, and 9 in Eastern Kansas begins with petitions to be on the ballot due to the Kansas Department of Agriculture by November 30, 2024.

For more information, contact the Kansas Grain Sorghum office at www.ksgrainsorghum.org.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643728765778.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission (Commission) met for its 2024 summer board meeting July 16-17 in Garden City. The Commission meets quarterly to discuss funding opportunities, program development and strategy for advancing domestic and international sorghum markets.These public meetings allow attendees to hear updates from state and national staff members, as well as industry leaders including Norma Ritz-Johnson, executive director of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program; Dr. Raj Khosla, head of the Agronomy Department at Kansas State University; and others, including Guy Allen, senior economist for the International Grains Program Institute at K-State; Ellen Zimmerman, industry relations director for the U.S. Grains Council; Kansas Department of Agriculture Ex-Officio Russell Plashcka; Matt Unruh, assistant director for the Kansas Water Office; and many others.The Commission also considered leadership re-organization and re-elected its current slate of officers for the upcoming year:● Chairman: Brant Peterson, Johnson (District 3 Southwest) ● Vice Chairman: Kevin Kniebel, White City (District 7 East Central) ● Secretary-Treasurer: Kevin Harris, Abilene (District 5 Central)“The past year has been challenging and rewarding for Team Sorghum. Planted acres are down, but hopefully, the yield and price will improve upon harvest and as we look towards 2025. Nonetheless, I am very proud of Kansas Sorghum and the industry we represent,” said Peterson.“It is an exciting time for the sorghum industry in many ways, with water and resource management included in most discussions.”Peterson continued: “I have also begun my journey representing the Commission on one of the U.S. Grains Council’s Advisory A-Teams. Seeing how the Council works to promote U.S. agriculture, and being a part of that discussion is an advantage I hope to bring to Kansas farmers. I thank the Commission for their continued support.”Chairman Peterson begins his second term as Chairman of the Commission for Fiscal Year 2025, which begins on October 1, 2024.“The Commission benefits greatly from having a strong leadership team in these officers and we sincerely appreciate the time and service all commissioners lend to steward and invest checkoff dollars in our state on behalf of growers and for growers,” said Adam York, administrator to the Commission. “I am excited for the continued focus on the organization’s ongoing pursuit of excellence with the current Executive Committee as elected by their peers returning for a second year in their officer roles. ”The Commission will next hold its annual budget meeting for Fiscal Year 2025 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, in Manhattan, Kansas, to consider funding allocations in research, education, outreach and more. Additionally, the process for growers to be eligible for election to all Kansas commodity commissions in USDA Crop Reporting Districts 7, 8, and 9 in Eastern Kansas begins with petitions to be on the ballot due to the Kansas Department of Agriculture by November 30, 2024.For more information, contact the Kansas Grain Sorghum office at www.ksgrainsorghum.org.###The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission is committed to sorghum promotion, research, and information designed to strengthen, expand and develop new foreign and domestic markets for sorghum.

Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission re-elects officers; reviews budget

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Three years ago, the Kansas legislature passed its revenue-neutral laws to increase transparency regarding property taxes and tax rates. Unfortunately, the legislation has carried a price tag. Each taxing entity that announces an intent to exceed revenue neutral, or collect more tax dollars than it did the year before, must notify the public. At Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting, County Clerk Bev Schmeidler sought approval on a bid to mail out those notices at a cost exceeding $17,000.

"We received three bids," she said. "Two of them were not complete. They only sent partial information. Postalocity was the only one who sent a complete bid, and they have done it the last two years for us and it's been seamless. We've never had a problem."

The bid, which includes 15-16,000 pieces of mail, was approved at $17,488 and authorized up to $18,500 for the bulk mailing. Commissioner Duane Reif reminded everyone that using a bulk mailing company is cheaper for the county than doing the work in-house. The state reimbursed counties for the mailings for the first two years. Schmeidler said counties were notified last Friday the state would again reimburse the costs this year. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the legislation is still far from ideal.

"Up until Friday, this is what I call an unfunded mandate," he said. "Even though our governing body did not file a notice to exceed revenue neutral, we're on the hook to mail out 15-16,000 notices county-wide, even though we did not file to exceed revenue neutral."

Under the passed statute, counties were to be reimbursed by the state for any mailing costs for calendar years 2022 and 2023. Schmeidler said the reimbursements will now be on a year-to-year basis. Counties may seek reimbursement from all taxing entities required to send the notice in the future if not reimbursed by the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721746480460.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThree years ago, the Kansas legislature passed its revenue-neutral laws to increase transparency regarding property taxes and tax rates. Unfortunately, the legislation has carried a price tag. Each taxing entity that announces an intent to exceed revenue neutral, or collect more tax dollars than it did the year before, must notify the public. At Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting, County Clerk Bev Schmeidler sought approval on a bid to mail out those notices at a cost exceeding $17,000."We received three bids," she said. "Two of them were not complete. They only sent partial information. Postalocity was the only one who sent a complete bid, and they have done it the last two years for us and it's been seamless. We've never had a problem."The bid, which includes 15-16,000 pieces of mail, was approved at $17,488 and authorized up to $18,500 for the bulk mailing. Commissioner Duane Reif reminded everyone that using a bulk mailing company is cheaper for the county than doing the work in-house. The state reimbursed counties for the mailings for the first two years. Schmeidler said counties were notified last Friday the state would again reimburse the costs this year. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the legislation is still far from ideal."Up until Friday, this is what I call an unfunded mandate," he said. "Even though our governing body did not file a notice to exceed revenue neutral, we're on the hook to mail out 15-16,000 notices county-wide, even though we did not file to exceed revenue neutral."Under the passed statute, counties were to be reimbursed by the state for any mailing costs for calendar years 2022 and 2023. Schmeidler said the reimbursements will now be on a year-to-year basis. Counties may seek reimbursement from all taxing entities required to send the notice in the future if not reimbursed by the state.

Barton Co. approves $18K for bulk mailing of revenue neutral notices

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/22)

At 8:25 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1200
block of NE 60 Avenue in Claflin.

At 1:40 p.m. a theft was reported at 387 NW 70 Avenue.

At 3:02 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4
Highway &amp; NW 140 Avenue.

At 11:23 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at S. Main
Street &amp; NW 100 Road in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/22)

At 1:44 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4101 17th
Street Ter.

At 2:01 p.m. a camera missing was reported at 10th
&amp; Kiowa Road. It was moved.

At 4:05 p.m. a trailer parked in the area was reported at
2933 27th Street. 

At 6:33 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 6010 Parrish
Ct.

At 9:04 p.m. a subject in the area was reported at 1200
Jefferson.

At 11:23 p.m. an outside agency assistance was reported at
S. Main Street &amp; NW 100 Road in Hoisington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/22)Cattle OutAt 8:25 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1200
block of NE 60 Avenue in Claflin.TheftAt 1:40 p.m. a theft was reported at 387 NW 70 Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3:02 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4
Highway &amp; NW 140 Avenue.Traffic ArrestAt 11:23 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at S. Main
Street &amp; NW 100 Road in Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/22)Traumatic InjuriesAt 1:44 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4101 17th
Street Ter.TheftAt 2:01 p.m. a camera missing was reported at 10th
&amp; Kiowa Road. It was moved.Parking ComplaintAt 4:05 p.m. a trailer parked in the area was reported at
2933 27th Street. Abdominal Pain / ProblemsAt 6:33 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 6010 Parrish
Ct.Trespassing / CriminalAt 9:04 p.m. a subject in the area was reported at 1200
Jefferson.Traffic ArrestAt 11:23 p.m. an outside agency assistance was reported at
S. Main Street &amp; NW 100 Road in Hoisington.

Cop Shop (7/22)

One goal of the Barton County Health Department is determining the needs of county residents. Mental health remains one of the largest problem areas. Katelyn Sigler, public health educator at the health department, said that's less about resources and more about the public not knowing about those resources. A new suicide prevention survey is aimed at raising awareness about those resources.

"We would like to hear from as many people as we can just to get the different populations in Barton County, and to reach everybody that's struggling," Sigler said. "Whatever you have going on, it's important, so we want to make sure you're being well taken care of."

The survey takes only about a minute to complete and all the information will remain anonymous.

"The only thing we ask for is your zip code," said Sigler. "We really like to stick with Barton County, so just the zip codes throughout Barton County. We don't ask for any personal information besides that; no name, no address, nothing like that. That's how we're keeping it anonymous."

<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsyaRLWLJo_CHMtd3Ak_Gp9TTnAJMpLSTCMlNzRrD7vJkavA/viewform">CLICK HERE</a> to take the survey. The survey may also be accessed via the Barton County Health Department's Facebook page, or by clicking the health department's website at bartoncounty.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711484423037.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOne goal of the Barton County Health Department is determining the needs of county residents. Mental health remains one of the largest problem areas. Katelyn Sigler, public health educator at the health department, said that's less about resources and more about the public not knowing about those resources. A new suicide prevention survey is aimed at raising awareness about those resources."We would like to hear from as many people as we can just to get the different populations in Barton County, and to reach everybody that's struggling," Sigler said. "Whatever you have going on, it's important, so we want to make sure you're being well taken care of."The survey takes only about a minute to complete and all the information will remain anonymous."The only thing we ask for is your zip code," said Sigler. "We really like to stick with Barton County, so just the zip codes throughout Barton County. We don't ask for any personal information besides that; no name, no address, nothing like that. That's how we're keeping it anonymous."<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsyaRLWLJo_CHMtd3Ak_Gp9TTnAJMpLSTCMlNzRrD7vJkavA/viewform">CLICK HERE</a> to take the survey. The survey may also be accessed via the Barton County Health Department's Facebook page, or by clicking the health department's website at bartoncounty.org.

Barton Co. Health Dept. asking public to complete mental health survey

7/22 BOOKED: Judy Goodman on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Violence-Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Derrick Pitzer on Barton County District Court case for Child Abuse, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Leonard Demel on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $200 cash only or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Raymond Chapman on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Violation of Offender Registration Act, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Judy Goodman on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Violence-Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Leonard Demel on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $200 cash bond.

RELEASED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/22 BOOKED: Judy Goodman on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Violence-Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Derrick Pitzer on Barton County District Court case for Child Abuse, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Leonard Demel on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $200 cash only or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Raymond Chapman on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Violation of Offender Registration Act, bond set at $100,000 C/S.RELEASED: Judy Goodman on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Violence-Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Leonard Demel on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $200 cash bond.RELEASED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/22)

Today Patchy fog before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming south-southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 65. South-southeast wind 3 to 6 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. Southwest wind around 6 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 67. South-southeast wind around 6 mph.

Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Southwest wind 6 to 9 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 94.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.

Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74.

Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Patchy fog before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming south-southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 65. South-southeast wind 3 to 6 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. Southwest wind around 6 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 67. South-southeast wind around 6 mph.Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Southwest wind 6 to 9 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 69.Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 94.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74.Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

When last year’s attendance numbers were down for Great Bend’s June
Jaunt festival, the rain and storms had an impact on the outdoor event at Jack
Kilby Square. When numbers were again down this year with good weather forecasts,
city officials began reconsidering the efforts to host the festival.


For 13 years, June Jaunt has provided downtown Great Bend with live music,
games, food vendors and entertainment on the firs weekend in June. Community Coordinator Christina Hayes
talked with a member of the fire-breathing performers after the shows about the
declining attendance.
&nbsp;

"The performer said his crews noticed that our decline was significant," said Hayes. "He said it's not just us. Across the nation, festivals right now are dying. People are starting to merge them with other festivals or trying new things. I'm not sure what to do about that, and I don't feel like I should solely be the one that makes that decision."

June Jaunt started as a tourism plan for citizens to stop at several towns
along K-96 Highway. The number of cities still participating this year were
down to three, Great Bend, Scott City and Tribune.


Hayes said other nearby communities have success with their festivals by
combining them with the known weekend for high school class reunions, something
Great Bend has not been able to organize.


"What's different about Great Bend is we have not got our school reunions behind our festivals," said Hayes. "I have tried. With the Convention and Visitors Bureau, I have offered tents and offered to pay for a portion of their meal for their class."

Hayes also added staying within budget to execute the festivals is a challenge
with rising costs. Smaller aspects of June Jaunt could possibly be added to other events, like Party in the Park which is held in August.

The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board was in favor of no longer hosting June Jaunt, gauge the public’s reaction and potentially
bolstering Party in the Park. Hayes will approach the
Great Bend City Council in the future about discontinuing June Jaunt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681828901199.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen last year’s attendance numbers were down for Great Bend’s June
Jaunt festival, the rain and storms had an impact on the outdoor event at Jack
Kilby Square. When numbers were again down this year with good weather forecasts,
city officials began reconsidering the efforts to host the festival.
For 13 years, June Jaunt has provided downtown Great Bend with live music,
games, food vendors and entertainment on the firs weekend in June. Community Coordinator Christina Hayes
talked with a member of the fire-breathing performers after the shows about the
declining attendance.
&nbsp;"The performer said his crews noticed that our decline was significant," said Hayes. "He said it's not just us. Across the nation, festivals right now are dying. People are starting to merge them with other festivals or trying new things. I'm not sure what to do about that, and I don't feel like I should solely be the one that makes that decision."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654196489294.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>June Jaunt started as a tourism plan for citizens to stop at several towns
along K-96 Highway. The number of cities still participating this year were
down to three, Great Bend, Scott City and Tribune.
Hayes said other nearby communities have success with their festivals by
combining them with the known weekend for high school class reunions, something
Great Bend has not been able to organize.
"What's different about Great Bend is we have not got our school reunions behind our festivals," said Hayes. "I have tried. With the Convention and Visitors Bureau, I have offered tents and offered to pay for a portion of their meal for their class."Hayes also added staying within budget to execute the festivals is a challenge
with rising costs. Smaller aspects of June Jaunt could possibly be added to other events, like Party in the Park which is held in August.The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board was in favor of no longer hosting June Jaunt, gauge the public’s reaction and potentially
bolstering Party in the Park. Hayes will approach the
Great Bend City Council in the future about discontinuing June Jaunt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Numbers down, Great Bend considering ending June Jaunt

The University of Kansas Health System, in collaboration with USD 428, will offer free school sports physicals for the 2024-2025 school year for area middle and high school students. Free sports physicals for middle and high school students will be provided at a single event on a walk-in basis only.

7-11 a.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024 St. Rose Medical Pavilion, Family Medicine (Floor 3) 3515 Broadway Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530

Please complete the Kansas State High School Activities Association preparticipation physical evaluation form prior to coming in to minimize wait time. Students who wear glasses or contacts should bring them to their exam.

Sports physicals also available all summer

If you are not able to make it to the free event August 3, school sports physicals are available throughout the summer at the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic and by appointment with the family medicine team at St. Rose Medical Pavilion.

Sports physicals are available without an appointment only at the walk-in clinic during regular hours, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Students age 17 and younger will need a parent to accompany them.

If you prefer to see your primary care provider, sports physicals are available only by appointment with the family medicine team. Sports physicals are available for students of all ages, from elementary school through college.

The cash cost of a sports physical if no insurance is involved is $35. With insurance, the cost of the exam will depend on your deductible.

If you have questions about school sports physicals or would like to schedule an appointment with the family medicine care team, call 620-792-2511. St. Rose Medical Pavilion is located at 3515 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend.

BUSINESS NEWSThe University of Kansas Health System, in collaboration with USD 428, will offer free school sports physicals for the 2024-2025 school year for area middle and high school students. Free sports physicals for middle and high school students will be provided at a single event on a walk-in basis only.7-11 a.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024 St. Rose Medical Pavilion, Family Medicine (Floor 3) 3515 Broadway Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530Please complete the Kansas State High School Activities Association preparticipation physical evaluation form prior to coming in to minimize wait time. Students who wear glasses or contacts should bring them to their exam.Sports physicals also available all summerIf you are not able to make it to the free event August 3, school sports physicals are available throughout the summer at the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic and by appointment with the family medicine team at St. Rose Medical Pavilion.Sports physicals are available without an appointment only at the walk-in clinic during regular hours, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Students age 17 and younger will need a parent to accompany them.If you prefer to see your primary care provider, sports physicals are available only by appointment with the family medicine team. Sports physicals are available for students of all ages, from elementary school through college.The cash cost of a sports physical if no insurance is involved is $35. With insurance, the cost of the exam will depend on your deductible.If you have questions about school sports physicals or would like to schedule an appointment with the family medicine care team, call 620-792-2511. St. Rose Medical Pavilion is located at 3515 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend.

One-day event for free school sports physicals in Great Bend

EDWARDS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Monday in Edwards County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ronald R&nbsp;Crabb, 41, Raton, New Mexico, was eastbound on U.S. 50 five miles east of the U.S. 183 Junction.

The car traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2022 Peterbilt semi driven by Trenton C.&nbsp;Winter, 36, Mount Hope.

Crabb was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;McKillip Funeral Home. Winter was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

EDWARDS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Monday in Edwards County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ronald R&nbsp;Crabb, 41, Raton, New Mexico, was eastbound on U.S. 50 five miles east of the U.S. 183 Junction.The car traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2022 Peterbilt semi driven by Trenton C.&nbsp;Winter, 36, Mount Hope.Crabb was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;McKillip Funeral Home. Winter was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man dies after car, semi crash with Kansas driver

As discussed at this month’s study session, the Barton Community College
Board of Trustees approved an operational budget and published budget for the
2025 fiscal year at Monday’s regular meeting. The budget remains revenue
neutral, keeping collected tax dollars the same as the year prior, estimated to
garner $9,574,623 in taxes. 

In order to collect the same amount of tax dollars,
Barton’s mill levy will drop just over a mill to 28.634. While valuations
fluctuate, allowing taxing entities to collect more dollars with lower mill
levies, Barton’s 2025 mill levy is the lowest it has been since 2005.


"Valuations have gone up too, so we receive more money," said Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean. "But as we receive more money, the cost of running these facilities and insurance have gone up too. We try to keep the mill levy somewhat stable over the years."

The budget plans for a $394,823 deficit at the end of the fiscal year, but Dean
said he does not expect to see the deficit with enrollment growth and
responsible spending throughout the year.


"From looking at our credit hours this summer and numbers for fall, we've had tremendous growth this summer," said Dean. "Our growth for this fall is way ahead for what we expected. I need that crystal ball, but I don't think that deficit will happen."

The operational budget approved includes a 5% increase to the salary budget to
keep up with the market value and the reduction of 12 fulltime positions that
were unfilled.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681226867078.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAs discussed at this month’s study session, the Barton Community College
Board of Trustees approved an operational budget and published budget for the
2025 fiscal year at Monday’s regular meeting. The budget remains revenue
neutral, keeping collected tax dollars the same as the year prior, estimated to
garner $9,574,623 in taxes. In order to collect the same amount of tax dollars,
Barton’s mill levy will drop just over a mill to 28.634. While valuations
fluctuate, allowing taxing entities to collect more dollars with lower mill
levies, Barton’s 2025 mill levy is the lowest it has been since 2005.
"Valuations have gone up too, so we receive more money," said Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean. "But as we receive more money, the cost of running these facilities and insurance have gone up too. We try to keep the mill levy somewhat stable over the years."The budget plans for a $394,823 deficit at the end of the fiscal year, but Dean
said he does not expect to see the deficit with enrollment growth and
responsible spending throughout the year.
"From looking at our credit hours this summer and numbers for fall, we've had tremendous growth this summer," said Dean. "Our growth for this fall is way ahead for what we expected. I need that crystal ball, but I don't think that deficit will happen."The operational budget approved includes a 5% increase to the salary budget to
keep up with the market value and the reduction of 12 fulltime positions that
were unfilled.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton college approves 5% increase to salary budget for 2025

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/47VSHPY. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting July 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the July 16, 2024, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: RFP – Bulk Mailer for Revenue Neutral Rate Notices: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Schmeidler will provide details. The “revenue neutral rate” is the property tax rate in mills that would generate the same property tax revenue in dollars as levied during the previous tax year using the current tax year’s total assessed valuation. All Kansas counties are required to mail every property owner an estimated tax notice with information relative to each specific property’s taxes and the revenue neutral rate (RNR) compared to the proposed rate for each taxing subdivision. The Clerk’s Office solicited proposals for the bulk mailing of the notices as prepared in cooperation with area taxing entities. The approximately 15,000 – 16,000 notices, as prepared through the CIC program, must be mailed by August 10, 2024.

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

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

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Maintenance contracts and 911 Advisory Board membership – Dena Popp, 911 Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Equipment purchases – Darren Williams, County Works Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Department Visit with Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. – Update from Freedom Claims – Brenda Kaiser, Human Resource Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. – Regular Business and Budget Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, is scheduled for July 25, 2024.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720201812175.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/47VSHPY. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting July 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the July 16, 2024, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: RFP – Bulk Mailer for Revenue Neutral Rate Notices: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Schmeidler will provide details. The “revenue neutral rate” is the property tax rate in mills that would generate the same property tax revenue in dollars as levied during the previous tax year using the current tax year’s total assessed valuation. All Kansas counties are required to mail every property owner an estimated tax notice with information relative to each specific property’s taxes and the revenue neutral rate (RNR) compared to the proposed rate for each taxing subdivision. The Clerk’s Office solicited proposals for the bulk mailing of the notices as prepared in cooperation with area taxing entities. The approximately 15,000 – 16,000 notices, as prepared through the CIC program, must be mailed by August 10, 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Maintenance contracts and 911 Advisory Board membership – Dena Popp, 911 Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Equipment purchases – Darren Williams, County Works Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Department Visit with Sheriff Brian Bellendir.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. – Update from Freedom Claims – Brenda Kaiser, Human Resource Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. – Regular Business and Budget Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, is scheduled for July 25, 2024.V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, 2024.VI. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (7/23)

Early voting has already started for the Aug. 6 primary election. Thursday evening, several local candidates attended a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters - Barton County at the Great Bend Senior Center. Two candidates are vying for the Barton County Clerk position. Candidates were given two questions ahead of the forum. The second question for clerk candidates pertained to how their office reaches out to new voters. Incumbent Bev Schmeidler listed the various locations in Barton County where citizens can register to vote and said Great Bend High School classes and the DMV can also be helpful.

"We try to reach out and put a lot of dates on social media," said Schmeidler. "We did about registration closing so people, if they weren't registered or weren't registered correctly, knew the other day was the deadline to get registered for this August primary. The media has always been very helpful."

Alicia Straub is Schmeidler's opponent in the Republican primary. She was in Milwaukee Thursday representing Barton County at the Republican National Convention. In a written statement, Straub said she prefers to require photo identification to register to vote though federal law does not require that. She said social media is the best way to reach new voters.

Thursday's forum also included candidates for Barton County Register of Deeds, Great Bend City Council Ward 1, and Ellinwood District Hospital. A similar forum at 7 p.m. on July 25 will feature candidates in federal and state races.

Watch the entire forum from Thursday, July 18 below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721397977040.jpeg" alt="Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler answers questions during Thursday's forum hosted by the League of Women Voters - Barton County." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler answers questions during Thursday's forum hosted by the League of Women Voters - Barton County.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEarly voting has already started for the Aug. 6 primary election. Thursday evening, several local candidates attended a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters - Barton County at the Great Bend Senior Center. Two candidates are vying for the Barton County Clerk position. Candidates were given two questions ahead of the forum. The second question for clerk candidates pertained to how their office reaches out to new voters. Incumbent Bev Schmeidler listed the various locations in Barton County where citizens can register to vote and said Great Bend High School classes and the DMV can also be helpful."We try to reach out and put a lot of dates on social media," said Schmeidler. "We did about registration closing so people, if they weren't registered or weren't registered correctly, knew the other day was the deadline to get registered for this August primary. The media has always been very helpful."Alicia Straub is Schmeidler's opponent in the Republican primary. She was in Milwaukee Thursday representing Barton County at the Republican National Convention. In a written statement, Straub said she prefers to require photo identification to register to vote though federal law does not require that. She said social media is the best way to reach new voters.Thursday's forum also included candidates for Barton County Register of Deeds, Great Bend City Council Ward 1, and Ellinwood District Hospital. A similar forum at 7 p.m. on July 25 will feature candidates in federal and state races.Watch the entire forum from Thursday, July 18 below. <div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGreatBendPost%2Fvideos%2F1210107689928196%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Barton County Clerk candidates answer questions at political forum

News from the Oil Patch, July 22 John P. Tretbar

Statewide crude production in Kansas rebounded in February, but dropped in March. The Kansas Geological Survey reports average crude production dropped statewide in January, joining a national decline attributed largely to severe winter weather. Output rebounded the following month, but dropped again in March, the latest numbers available from KGS. County breakouts also show declines. Statewide production dipped to just under 73,000 daily barrels in March. The quarterly average, January through March, is 69,746 barrels per day, compared to 76,756 barrels per day in Q1 2023.

County production figures followed the statewide lead, dropping in January, ramping up dramatically in February, then falling back in March.

*Ellis County dips to 5,524 barrels per day on production of 502-thousand barrels for the first quarter. That's down from 543-thousand barrels at 6.040 barrels per day during the first quarter of last year. *Barton County drops from 4,100 barrels per day last year to 3,700 through March this year, and drops to fourth in the county rankings behind Haskell and Finney counties. *Russell County pumped 3,400 barrels per day, compared to 3,666 barrels per day in the first three months of last year. *Stafford County weighs in with 2,200 barrels per day, down from 2,466 barrels per day a year ago.

The Energy Information Administration reports crude production last week increased 38,000 barrels a day in Alaska, and held steady in the lower 48 states, for a total of 13,322,000 barrels per day. EIA says cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent from a year ago.

EIA reports a big drawdown in US commercial crude supplies. Inventories dropped by nearly five million barrels to just over 440 million. Commercial stockpiles are down nearly four percent from a year ago and five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

Weekly inventory reporting shows the government added another 700,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Price markdowns in refilling the SPR have saved the US Treasury $132 million since April.

Rig Counts are dropping despite steady production. The latest Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 586 active rigs nationwide.&nbsp; The tally has steadily declined each week since reaching the high point for the year of 629 active rigs on March 15. Crude production in the United States has held steady for six weeks at just over 13.2 million barrels per day, despite the rig count declining 12 rigs over the same six weeks.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was down 13% from last week, dropping two rigs to eleven in eastern Kansas, and down two rigs west of Wichita to 15 active rigs. The tally is down seven percent from a month ago and 32% lower than last year at this time. Drilling continued this week on a lease in Barton County.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 19 newly-completed wells in the week through July 18. That's 713 new well-completions this year, compared to 959 a year ago. Operators completed 11 new wells in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County.

Kansas regulators okayed 18 permits for drilling at new locations, with seven in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. That's 537 new drilling locations approved so far this year, compared to 720 by this time last year.

Crude-oil imports outpaced crude exports by more than three million barrels a day last week. Petroleum product exports exceeded imports by more than four million barrels a day. At nearly four million barrels a day, crude exports were down 35-thousand barrels a day from a week earlier, but are up from a year ago, and up from two years ago. Four-week average exports are up seven percent from a year ago.&nbsp; US crude imports increased to seven million barrels per day, up 277-thousand barrels per day. Average imports over the last four weeks are up just over one percent from the same four weeks last year.

Government regulators are asking for more information about ConocoPhillips' pursuit of Marathon Oil. Company officials were hoping to close the $22 BILLION deal by the end of this year, but this request could push that back. The merger would increase production to 2.26 million barrels per day and raise ConocoPhillips' proved reserves to 6.8 billion barrels.&nbsp; Reuters reports both companies received the requests on July 11th and are collaborating with the FTC to review the merger.

Dozens of wildfires continued to plague the oil sands region of Alberta, Canada. The Alberta-Wildfire Web site shows 161 active wildfires in the province Monday, including eight listed as "Out of Control" encircling Fort McMurray in northeastern Alberta in what is roughly the center of Canada's oil sands operations. Firefighters have already put out 764 wildfires across Alberta so far this year.&nbsp; An industry analyst suggests that just one of those fires is already curtailing production of nearly 200,000 barrels per day at a Suncor operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, July 22 John P. TretbarStatewide crude production in Kansas rebounded in February, but dropped in March. The Kansas Geological Survey reports average crude production dropped statewide in January, joining a national decline attributed largely to severe winter weather. Output rebounded the following month, but dropped again in March, the latest numbers available from KGS. County breakouts also show declines. Statewide production dipped to just under 73,000 daily barrels in March. The quarterly average, January through March, is 69,746 barrels per day, compared to 76,756 barrels per day in Q1 2023.County production figures followed the statewide lead, dropping in January, ramping up dramatically in February, then falling back in March.*Ellis County dips to 5,524 barrels per day on production of 502-thousand barrels for the first quarter. That's down from 543-thousand barrels at 6.040 barrels per day during the first quarter of last year. *Barton County drops from 4,100 barrels per day last year to 3,700 through March this year, and drops to fourth in the county rankings behind Haskell and Finney counties. *Russell County pumped 3,400 barrels per day, compared to 3,666 barrels per day in the first three months of last year. *Stafford County weighs in with 2,200 barrels per day, down from 2,466 barrels per day a year ago.The Energy Information Administration reports crude production last week increased 38,000 barrels a day in Alaska, and held steady in the lower 48 states, for a total of 13,322,000 barrels per day. EIA says cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent from a year ago.EIA reports a big drawdown in US commercial crude supplies. Inventories dropped by nearly five million barrels to just over 440 million. Commercial stockpiles are down nearly four percent from a year ago and five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.Weekly inventory reporting shows the government added another 700,000 barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Price markdowns in refilling the SPR have saved the US Treasury $132 million since April.Rig Counts are dropping despite steady production. The latest Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 586 active rigs nationwide.&nbsp; The tally has steadily declined each week since reaching the high point for the year of 629 active rigs on March 15. Crude production in the United States has held steady for six weeks at just over 13.2 million barrels per day, despite the rig count declining 12 rigs over the same six weeks.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was down 13% from last week, dropping two rigs to eleven in eastern Kansas, and down two rigs west of Wichita to 15 active rigs. The tally is down seven percent from a month ago and 32% lower than last year at this time. Drilling continued this week on a lease in Barton County.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 19 newly-completed wells in the week through July 18. That's 713 new well-completions this year, compared to 959 a year ago. Operators completed 11 new wells in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County.Kansas regulators okayed 18 permits for drilling at new locations, with seven in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. That's 537 new drilling locations approved so far this year, compared to 720 by this time last year.Crude-oil imports outpaced crude exports by more than three million barrels a day last week. Petroleum product exports exceeded imports by more than four million barrels a day. At nearly four million barrels a day, crude exports were down 35-thousand barrels a day from a week earlier, but are up from a year ago, and up from two years ago. Four-week average exports are up seven percent from a year ago.&nbsp; US crude imports increased to seven million barrels per day, up 277-thousand barrels per day. Average imports over the last four weeks are up just over one percent from the same four weeks last year.Government regulators are asking for more information about ConocoPhillips' pursuit of Marathon Oil. Company officials were hoping to close the $22 BILLION deal by the end of this year, but this request could push that back. The merger would increase production to 2.26 million barrels per day and raise ConocoPhillips' proved reserves to 6.8 billion barrels.&nbsp; Reuters reports both companies received the requests on July 11th and are collaborating with the FTC to review the merger.Dozens of wildfires continued to plague the oil sands region of Alberta, Canada. The Alberta-Wildfire Web site shows 161 active wildfires in the province Monday, including eight listed as "Out of Control" encircling Fort McMurray in northeastern Alberta in what is roughly the center of Canada's oil sands operations. Firefighters have already put out 764 wildfires across Alberta so far this year.&nbsp; An industry analyst suggests that just one of those fires is already curtailing production of nearly 200,000 barrels per day at a Suncor operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Kansas Q1 production lags last year 

Those of you who were at Discovery Days had the opportunity to hear Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, discuss the other 4 H’s. While I will not do as good of a job as Mr. Holthus did, I want to recap the 4 H’s as I feel they are important for us to remember throughout the year, but especially during this wonderful time of year when we can connect with our 4-H members and their families, and our 4-H volunteers.

The first H addressed was Humble, the power of the “mangy mutt”. Mr. Holthus shared the success of the Chiefs with their 8 consecutive AFC West titles, the 4 of the last 5 seasons they were in the Super Bowl as the AFC Champions, AND being winners of the Lamar Hunt Trophy with 3 Super Bowl wins. He went on to share the importance of the “mutt” to stay humble and hungry – to never blink or flinch; fear nothing and attack everything; and eliminate distractions and create energy. The hungry dog hunts the best. What are you hungry for? What is your program hungry for?

This leads us to the second H, Hungry, the power of listening. Mitch said that you can teach a new dog old tricks, but you can also teach an old dog new tricks. I’d encourage you to read that again and think about where you are in your career (new or old-er). Mr. Holthus continued to emphasize listening has a linear intention and it is important to listen to absorb, ascertain, then act. How many of us listen and while doing so are thinking of how we will respond vs. listening to absorb what is being said, make sure you understand what was being said to you, then act and respond?

The third H Mr. Holthus identified for the Discovery Days delegation was Hard, the power of perseverance. He asked us the question, Who will do the task when it is hard? We should not ask others to do work we would not do ourselves. Sometimes we have to get down in the dirt and get dirty with everyone else to get the job done. Sometimes we have successes

and sometimes we have challenges. Mitch indicates that after three strikes, we are not out! Instead, we should continue to work towards the goal and persevere! Once we get to our goal, we need to celebrate those milestones. In Extension, we do not always celebrate our accomplishments, but we need to make a point to do so. Yet, it is important that we not “stay” in the celebration mode.

The fourth and final H is History, the power of a footprint. Mr. Holthus asked several questions around this H which all focused on purpose. What is our purpose? Where do we fit? What will we leave behind? And will we be a free agent or a footprint maker? I really loved this last question and how he identified a legacy or impact as a footprint.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Those of you who were at Discovery Days had the opportunity to hear Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, discuss the other 4 H’s. While I will not do as good of a job as Mr. Holthus did, I want to recap the 4 H’s as I feel they are important for us to remember throughout the year, but especially during this wonderful time of year when we can connect with our 4-H members and their families, and our 4-H volunteers.The first H addressed was Humble, the power of the “mangy mutt”. Mr. Holthus shared the success of the Chiefs with their 8 consecutive AFC West titles, the 4 of the last 5 seasons they were in the Super Bowl as the AFC Champions, AND being winners of the Lamar Hunt Trophy with 3 Super Bowl wins. He went on to share the importance of the “mutt” to stay humble and hungry – to never blink or flinch; fear nothing and attack everything; and eliminate distractions and create energy. The hungry dog hunts the best. What are you hungry for? What is your program hungry for?This leads us to the second H, Hungry, the power of listening. Mitch said that you can teach a new dog old tricks, but you can also teach an old dog new tricks. I’d encourage you to read that again and think about where you are in your career (new or old-er). Mr. Holthus continued to emphasize listening has a linear intention and it is important to listen to absorb, ascertain, then act. How many of us listen and while doing so are thinking of how we will respond vs. listening to absorb what is being said, make sure you understand what was being said to you, then act and respond?The third H Mr. Holthus identified for the Discovery Days delegation was Hard, the power of perseverance. He asked us the question, Who will do the task when it is hard? We should not ask others to do work we would not do ourselves. Sometimes we have to get down in the dirt and get dirty with everyone else to get the job done. Sometimes we have successesand sometimes we have challenges. Mitch indicates that after three strikes, we are not out! Instead, we should continue to work towards the goal and persevere! Once we get to our goal, we need to celebrate those milestones. In Extension, we do not always celebrate our accomplishments, but we need to make a point to do so. Yet, it is important that we not “stay” in the celebration mode.The fourth and final H is History, the power of a footprint. Mr. Holthus asked several questions around this H which all focused on purpose. What is our purpose? Where do we fit? What will we leave behind? And will we be a free agent or a footprint maker? I really loved this last question and how he identified a legacy or impact as a footprint.As you go through this busy summer season, I want you to think about these questions:· What does this mean for you and your work?· How do you stay humble and hungry?· How do you listen to understand, then be understood?· Do you celebrate the successes in your program?· What legacy or footprint are you leaving in your program and on the lives of the Kansans you serve?Summers can be stressful and exciting simultaneously. Let’s continue to ask these questions of ourselves, stay humble in our work, stay hungry and listen to others, be willing to do the hard things, and remember the power of the footprint you are leaving through your work.Many thanks to Dr. Maass for sharing her reflection on this impactful presentation.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability

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