By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Barton County Appraiser Wendy Prosser will remain in her post for at least another year. She was elevated from interim county appraiser on July 1, 2021, in a contract that was designed to be for four years to align with most other counties in the state. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved an employment agreement that will extend her contract to June 30, 2025. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman explained the issue to the board.

"County appraiser is a unique position in the county in that it is an unelected department head of an important county department, but it also answers or has review by the state of Kansas directly on their valuations and their standards they have to employ," he said. "For that reason, almost every county has a contract with their county appraiser in addition to their typical employment agreement."

Prosser thanked the commission for the extension, but also thanked the Barton County taxpayers for their patience in what has been a turbulent market.

"Barton County has been a really great place to work," she said. "It's challenging, but the taxpayers have been so great about asking questions and coming in and talking to us. Even through the high valuation spike we had through COVID, it's been a great learning opportunity to get to work with the taxpayers of Barton County."

To be in compliance with state regulations, appraised values are supposed to be within 10 percent, or between 90 and 110 percent, of real-market values. Barton County had been sitting in the low 70s and out of compliance but work done by Prosser's office has brought the number back to approximately 101 percent.

"That means that, when properties sell," Prosser said, "they're coming in right around the county's appraised value, which is what my job is to do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719339675431.jpeg" alt="Barton County Appraiser Wendy Prosser" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Appraiser Wendy Prosser</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBarton County Appraiser Wendy Prosser will remain in her post for at least another year. She was elevated from interim county appraiser on July 1, 2021, in a contract that was designed to be for four years to align with most other counties in the state. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved an employment agreement that will extend her contract to June 30, 2025. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman explained the issue to the board."County appraiser is a unique position in the county in that it is an unelected department head of an important county department, but it also answers or has review by the state of Kansas directly on their valuations and their standards they have to employ," he said. "For that reason, almost every county has a contract with their county appraiser in addition to their typical employment agreement."Prosser thanked the commission for the extension, but also thanked the Barton County taxpayers for their patience in what has been a turbulent market."Barton County has been a really great place to work," she said. "It's challenging, but the taxpayers have been so great about asking questions and coming in and talking to us. Even through the high valuation spike we had through COVID, it's been a great learning opportunity to get to work with the taxpayers of Barton County."To be in compliance with state regulations, appraised values are supposed to be within 10 percent, or between 90 and 110 percent, of real-market values. Barton County had been sitting in the low 70s and out of compliance but work done by Prosser's office has brought the number back to approximately 101 percent."That means that, when properties sell," Prosser said, "they're coming in right around the county's appraised value, which is what my job is to do."

Barton Commission extends appraiser contract through 2025

On Saturday, June 22, officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an address in the 2700 block of 28th&nbsp;Street in reference to a domestic disturbance. Officers were advised that a male subject in the residence was threatening family members with a knife. 

After investigation, officers placed Michael Warren, age 20, under arrest for aggravated assault, criminal threat and domestic battery. Warren was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of a $20,000 bond.&nbsp;

If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719375072401.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, June 22, officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an address in the 2700 block of 28th&nbsp;Street in reference to a domestic disturbance. Officers were advised that a male subject in the residence was threatening family members with a knife. After investigation, officers placed Michael Warren, age 20, under arrest for aggravated assault, criminal threat and domestic battery. Warren was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of a $20,000 bond.&nbsp;If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Officers advised subject threatened Great Bend family with knife

Special Board of Education Meeting AGENDA June 26, 2024 7:30 a.m.

AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only

(IO/AI) 4. Food Service Contract Discussion (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4.0) The Board will further discuss a food service contract partnership with Bright Beginnings Daycare food service contract. Options include rejecting the contract, providing a 6-month contract, or providing a 12-month contract.

(AI) 5. Approval of Contributions (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 5.0)

(AI) 6. Approval of Personnel Report (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 6.0)

(AI) 7. Approval of End-of-Year Budget Expenditures and Transfers (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 7.0)

(AI) 8. Approval of 2024-2025 School Calendar change (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 8.0) The 2024-2025 IBB team approved decreasing two student days to use as Curriculum Collaboration/Teacher Grading days. This will change two student contact days to two no student days, still satisfying the required number of student contact days and remaining at 180 days in the teacher contract. The two Curriculum Collaboration/ Teacher Grading dates will be October 4, 2024, and April 21, 2025. The administration recommends approval.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715793479697.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Special Board of Education Meeting AGENDA June 26, 2024 7:30 a.m.AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only(AI) 1. Call to Order / Roll Call(AI) 2. Adoption of Agenda(IO) 3. Recognition of Visitors(IO/AI) 4. Food Service Contract Discussion (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 4.0) The Board will further discuss a food service contract partnership with Bright Beginnings Daycare food service contract. Options include rejecting the contract, providing a 6-month contract, or providing a 12-month contract.(AI) 5. Approval of Contributions (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 5.0)(AI) 6. Approval of Personnel Report (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 6.0)(AI) 7. Approval of End-of-Year Budget Expenditures and Transfers (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 7.0)(AI) 8. Approval of 2024-2025 School Calendar change (Refer to Mr. Thexton) (Attachment 8.0) The 2024-2025 IBB team approved decreasing two student days to use as Curriculum Collaboration/Teacher Grading days. This will change two student contact days to two no student days, still satisfying the required number of student contact days and remaining at 180 days in the teacher contract. The two Curriculum Collaboration/ Teacher Grading dates will be October 4, 2024, and April 21, 2025. The administration recommends approval.(AI) 9. Adjournment

USD 428 school board special meeting agenda (6/26)

Cattle incapable of relieving themselves of high temperatures experience heat stress. Humans alleviate overheating through sweating, but Kansas State University beef extension veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff said cattle do not have that option.

“Heat stress coping behaviors is what we see when cattle are adapting to warmer temperatures,” he said. “Whenever we get hot, we sweat to maintain homeostasis. For livestock species, and especially cattle, they do not have those capabilities.”

Tarpoff added: “They dissipate heat in other ways like increasing their respiratory rate (breathing) by panting.”

Besides panting, producers identify heat stress by their increased standing, large groups of animals bunching up close to water tanks and crowding in shaded areas.

“They're trying to get increased airflow by standing, but they actually end up using each other as shade which is counter-productive,” Tarpoff said.

High temperatures and humidity, slow wind speeds and increased solar radiation comprise the four weather conditions contributing to heat stress.

“When we're comfortable, cattle might not be and vice versa. We really need to consider those four key parameters,” Tarpoff said. “We have an animal comfort index that uses the four of them to get a feel on how cattle are experiencing their environment.”

Monitor the animal comfort index in Kansas through the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">K-State Mesonet</a>.

Correctly managing heat stress has proven to be essential for maximizing animal wellbeing and performance, according to Tarpoff.

“It is one of those critical chores just as important as feeding or making sure the animals have water. Whether we are asking them to be good cows or an animal to produce beef in a feedlot, we need to put them in scenarios where they’re more comfortable because then they are more productive,” he said.

Tarpoff urges operations housing their cattle in dry lots to keep it simple when developing a plan to lessen the consequences of heat stress.

“Whenever it comes to heat stress, it's back to the basics: feed and water. Water intake can nearly double as temperatures rise from 70 to 90 degrees (Fahrenheit). We need more water access, flow and availability for those animals,” he said.

He added: “We might be able to modify our feeding times to alleviate some of these stressors. Whenever we feed cattle, we feed the rumen microbes, and that comes at a cost called the heat of fermentation. We can feed later in the evening, so the digestion happens during the cooler nighttime hours.”

Producers often construct shades to cool off cattle in times of unrelenting heat. A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol9/iss1/3/" target="_blank">study</a>&nbsp;conducted by K-State researchers looking at effects of shade on heat stress revealed that shade structures can impact more than just animal temperature.

“They are a piece of infrastructure,” Tarpoff said. “That two-year trial showed added benefits of investing in shades. We saw increased feed efficiency, increased growth rate and increased average daily gain. We also saw reduced panting rates and water consumption needs by over a gallon per head per day.”

Additionally, bedding pens with straw and fence-line sprinklers help lower ground temperatures and keep cattle cool, according to Tarpoff.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Cattle incapable of relieving themselves of high temperatures experience heat stress. Humans alleviate overheating through sweating, but Kansas State University beef extension veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff said cattle do not have that option.“Heat stress coping behaviors is what we see when cattle are adapting to warmer temperatures,” he said. “Whenever we get hot, we sweat to maintain homeostasis. For livestock species, and especially cattle, they do not have those capabilities.”Tarpoff added: “They dissipate heat in other ways like increasing their respiratory rate (breathing) by panting.”Besides panting, producers identify heat stress by their increased standing, large groups of animals bunching up close to water tanks and crowding in shaded areas.“They're trying to get increased airflow by standing, but they actually end up using each other as shade which is counter-productive,” Tarpoff said.High temperatures and humidity, slow wind speeds and increased solar radiation comprise the four weather conditions contributing to heat stress.“When we're comfortable, cattle might not be and vice versa. We really need to consider those four key parameters,” Tarpoff said. “We have an animal comfort index that uses the four of them to get a feel on how cattle are experiencing their environment.”Monitor the animal comfort index in Kansas through the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">K-State Mesonet</a>.Correctly managing heat stress has proven to be essential for maximizing animal wellbeing and performance, according to Tarpoff.“It is one of those critical chores just as important as feeding or making sure the animals have water. Whether we are asking them to be good cows or an animal to produce beef in a feedlot, we need to put them in scenarios where they’re more comfortable because then they are more productive,” he said.Tarpoff urges operations housing their cattle in dry lots to keep it simple when developing a plan to lessen the consequences of heat stress.“Whenever it comes to heat stress, it's back to the basics: feed and water. Water intake can nearly double as temperatures rise from 70 to 90 degrees (Fahrenheit). We need more water access, flow and availability for those animals,” he said.He added: “We might be able to modify our feeding times to alleviate some of these stressors. Whenever we feed cattle, we feed the rumen microbes, and that comes at a cost called the heat of fermentation. We can feed later in the evening, so the digestion happens during the cooler nighttime hours.”Producers often construct shades to cool off cattle in times of unrelenting heat. A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol9/iss1/3/" target="_blank">study</a>&nbsp;conducted by K-State researchers looking at effects of shade on heat stress revealed that shade structures can impact more than just animal temperature.“They are a piece of infrastructure,” Tarpoff said. “That two-year trial showed added benefits of investing in shades. We saw increased feed efficiency, increased growth rate and increased average daily gain. We also saw reduced panting rates and water consumption needs by over a gallon per head per day.”Additionally, bedding pens with straw and fence-line sprinklers help lower ground temperatures and keep cattle cool, according to Tarpoff.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Cattle experiencing heat stress

Santa Fe Trail Center Historical Society members and Docent Museum Trip is taking place Thursday, June 27, leaving from the Santa Fe Trail Center this Thursday at 9 a.m.  Non-members are welcome, you can call the Santa Fe Trail Center at 620-285-2054 for more details or to sign up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719328831430.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Santa Fe Trail Center Historical Society members and Docent Museum Trip is taking place Thursday, June 27, leaving from the Santa Fe Trail Center this Thursday at 9 a.m. Non-members are welcome, you can call the Santa Fe Trail Center at 620-285-2054 for more details or to sign up.

Museum education excursion Thursday, leaving from Larned

It's Eagle Radio Night on Great Bend Bat Cats Day. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission proclaimed June 25, 2024, as Bat Cats Day ahead of the baseball team's home game against the Kansas Cannons. This year's roster features 27 players from Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Minnesota, and Kansas. Bat Cats Coach and Manager Roger Ward called it his best group yet.

"Out of all the eight teams we've had, I enjoy this group the most," he told the commission. "It's such a good group. Maybe some are still fooling me, but to me, no doubt, 100 percent, it's the best group we've put together; not just as baseball players but as people."

This year's team participated in the June Jaunt Parade, Final Fridays on Forest, spent time with kids at Camp Hope, and will help with some of the setup at the Barton County Fair later this week.

"As we've stated before, when you do something like this, and this is the community I grew up in, you hope good things happen," Ward said. "Each year, we seem to gain a little bit of steam as far as community stuff."

Tonight is an instant finalist night for Eagle Radio's Trax to the Max giveaway, brought to you by the Great Bend Bat Cats courtesy of Moeder Plumbing Heating and Air, your Bryant dealer, whatever it takes. Trax to the Max is sponsored by Sutherland's, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, Eldridge Fencing, and Ehler Chevrolet, together let's drive. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Al Burns Field, and fans can register for Trax to the Max from 6-8 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719336769925.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt's Eagle Radio Night on Great Bend Bat Cats Day. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission proclaimed June 25, 2024, as Bat Cats Day ahead of the baseball team's home game against the Kansas Cannons. This year's roster features 27 players from Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Minnesota, and Kansas. Bat Cats Coach and Manager Roger Ward called it his best group yet."Out of all the eight teams we've had, I enjoy this group the most," he told the commission. "It's such a good group. Maybe some are still fooling me, but to me, no doubt, 100 percent, it's the best group we've put together; not just as baseball players but as people."This year's team participated in the June Jaunt Parade, Final Fridays on Forest, spent time with kids at Camp Hope, and will help with some of the setup at the Barton County Fair later this week."As we've stated before, when you do something like this, and this is the community I grew up in, you hope good things happen," Ward said. "Each year, we seem to gain a little bit of steam as far as community stuff."Tonight is an instant finalist night for Eagle Radio's Trax to the Max giveaway, brought to you by the Great Bend Bat Cats courtesy of Moeder Plumbing Heating and Air, your Bryant dealer, whatever it takes. Trax to the Max is sponsored by Sutherland's, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, Eldridge Fencing, and Ehler Chevrolet, together let's drive. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Al Burns Field, and fans can register for Trax to the Max from 6-8 p.m.

June 25 proclaimed as Great Bend Bat Cats Day ahead of Eagle Radio Night

This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

According to the June 23, 2024 USDA/NASS Kansas Crop Progress and Condition Report, winter wheat harvested was 53%, well ahead of 17% last year and 25% for the five-year average. Winter wheat mature was 94%, well ahead of 53% last year and 65% average. Kansas winter wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 15% poor, 35% fair, 36% good and 6% excellent.

Wheat harvest is just getting started in northwest Kansas, while south central areas are wrapping things up after last week's rains.

The central parts of Kansas — from Dodge City to Great Bend to Hutchinson and beyond — were hit hard with the drought this spring.

After missing rain during most of the growing season, John Hildebrand of Stafford reports rain finally came a couple weeks ago — after the wheat was ripe, which delayed the beginning of harvest. The Hildebrands were able to start harvest on June 13 and were in the home stretch on the afternoon of June 24.

Overall, it was a hard year, due to lack of moisture and weed pressure.

“We have weed pressure in our area,” Hildebrand said. “Thin stands and rain before harvest is the perfect recipe for weeds to come through.”

Hildebrand reports yields to be about the same as last year, which was also below average. Test weights range from 56 pounds per bushel to 59 pounds per bushel.

In Rice County, near Chase, Doug Keesling says this year's crop is three times better than last year; however, last year's yields were only in the single digits.

“In general, this wasn’t a perfect crop, but this was the best crop we’ve been able to harvest in the past three years,” Keesling said, “We need to be thankful for the blessings that we have, and this year we were able to get a decent harvest.” Two-thirds of his acres last year were abandoned due to drought.

Keesling farms in both Rice and Barton counties and his best-performing wheat variety, Bob Dole, yielded an average of 25 bushels per acre, had a test weight of 57 pounds per bushel and had an average of 13.5% protein this year.

Keesling started cutting his wheat on June 7 and only has a mud spot left before he wraps up. While wrapping up wheat harvest, he still has some catching up to do with his double crop sorghum and soybeans.

“We are able to plant a lot faster than we’re able to spray our double crop,” he said. “The wind storms we had last week and the strong winds lately have put a pause on us spraying; otherwise, we’d be done double-cropping.”

Mike Jordan of Beloit in Mitchell County got his combines rolling on June 14 and is about halfway done with harvest. He reported a wide range of yields that will probably result in an overall average harvest for the year. After a year of sparse rain in his area, Jordan was pleasantly surprised as he started cutting.

“The wheat is better than it looks, which is a tribute to the genetics,” Jordan said, “When we finally got the rain this spring, we got the bushels there.”

He is hoping for an average of 50 bushels per acre with conditions of fields on both ends of the spectrum. Some of the lower-yielding fields had a delayed start and did not come up until January; luckily there was some late rain that rescued those fields. He reported proteins ranging from 12 percent to 15 percent and test weights around 61 pounds per bushel. Jordan said his star variety was Westbred’s WB 4401.

Variability continues to be the theme of this year’s wheat harvest across the state. Keep watch for the next Kansas Wheat harvest report on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsnkX6WKWtZd5TOlr1GyNI4HP89dSPhFfjsjAaO5mRHEY7-KWjNlC91yAPD8IEwGTq9T38dR8kl_yjEtX1tg_ZEvQUmI5Or1fW7GMHLPn9IC5lBW0ZIOeB9d7NmS-s5B93xs9bCFLqfOl1JRPcQl3Jvsbv8KS80JIsVx-UUjjn2k4nfMcCYV5Krc=&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsgEN3ARRpJWiiyp61Dk-ocHtQzDBhZpQgJHjSDr6ZOHXs0FT9fJJfVFCfbFAFFuSrhu3417AetC59Ie2HwI-v8oxlwUSVmcshFnR9_7iTOolZbmMRKZpv1E=&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsnqS1SZ9VTgQN1NUmUTcHPYFm_8Fa0YVZTAzn4KvyXtHEK5SbTD4yK-aW0-Gqdk_Vm_B2qpdZmtBFPR81KD_0Uwl5oLLg-Z-vY-OooGIKG5Q&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGssK6Lq0Bnvqze9tWUDEcDPY0ACqPLJSz8dWqHfmaAtneabx6ky28FL0_HlM-qm-NK5Fug9XrQFMDUrLUQhx8cdyGPzZAVneDARohscAUWZz0&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719328539537.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.According to the June 23, 2024 USDA/NASS Kansas Crop Progress and Condition Report, winter wheat harvested was 53%, well ahead of 17% last year and 25% for the five-year average. Winter wheat mature was 94%, well ahead of 53% last year and 65% average. Kansas winter wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 15% poor, 35% fair, 36% good and 6% excellent.Wheat harvest is just getting started in northwest Kansas, while south central areas are wrapping things up after last week's rains.The central parts of Kansas — from Dodge City to Great Bend to Hutchinson and beyond — were hit hard with the drought this spring.After missing rain during most of the growing season, John Hildebrand of Stafford reports rain finally came a couple weeks ago — after the wheat was ripe, which delayed the beginning of harvest. The Hildebrands were able to start harvest on June 13 and were in the home stretch on the afternoon of June 24.Overall, it was a hard year, due to lack of moisture and weed pressure.“We have weed pressure in our area,” Hildebrand said. “Thin stands and rain before harvest is the perfect recipe for weeds to come through.”Hildebrand reports yields to be about the same as last year, which was also below average. Test weights range from 56 pounds per bushel to 59 pounds per bushel.In Rice County, near Chase, Doug Keesling says this year's crop is three times better than last year; however, last year's yields were only in the single digits.“In general, this wasn’t a perfect crop, but this was the best crop we’ve been able to harvest in the past three years,” Keesling said, “We need to be thankful for the blessings that we have, and this year we were able to get a decent harvest.” Two-thirds of his acres last year were abandoned due to drought.Keesling farms in both Rice and Barton counties and his best-performing wheat variety, Bob Dole, yielded an average of 25 bushels per acre, had a test weight of 57 pounds per bushel and had an average of 13.5% protein this year.Keesling started cutting his wheat on June 7 and only has a mud spot left before he wraps up. While wrapping up wheat harvest, he still has some catching up to do with his double crop sorghum and soybeans.“We are able to plant a lot faster than we’re able to spray our double crop,” he said. “The wind storms we had last week and the strong winds lately have put a pause on us spraying; otherwise, we’d be done double-cropping.”Mike Jordan of Beloit in Mitchell County got his combines rolling on June 14 and is about halfway done with harvest. He reported a wide range of yields that will probably result in an overall average harvest for the year. After a year of sparse rain in his area, Jordan was pleasantly surprised as he started cutting.“The wheat is better than it looks, which is a tribute to the genetics,” Jordan said, “When we finally got the rain this spring, we got the bushels there.”He is hoping for an average of 50 bushels per acre with conditions of fields on both ends of the spectrum. Some of the lower-yielding fields had a delayed start and did not come up until January; luckily there was some late rain that rescued those fields. He reported proteins ranging from 12 percent to 15 percent and test weights around 61 pounds per bushel. Jordan said his star variety was Westbred’s WB 4401.Variability continues to be the theme of this year’s wheat harvest across the state. Keep watch for the next Kansas Wheat harvest report on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsnkX6WKWtZd5TOlr1GyNI4HP89dSPhFfjsjAaO5mRHEY7-KWjNlC91yAPD8IEwGTq9T38dR8kl_yjEtX1tg_ZEvQUmI5Or1fW7GMHLPn9IC5lBW0ZIOeB9d7NmS-s5B93xs9bCFLqfOl1JRPcQl3Jvsbv8KS80JIsVx-UUjjn2k4nfMcCYV5Krc=&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsgEN3ARRpJWiiyp61Dk-ocHtQzDBhZpQgJHjSDr6ZOHXs0FT9fJJfVFCfbFAFFuSrhu3417AetC59Ie2HwI-v8oxlwUSVmcshFnR9_7iTOolZbmMRKZpv1E=&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGsnqS1SZ9VTgQN1NUmUTcHPYFm_8Fa0YVZTAzn4KvyXtHEK5SbTD4yK-aW0-Gqdk_Vm_B2qpdZmtBFPR81KD_0Uwl5oLLg-Z-vY-OooGIKG5Q&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tf0WsxRAd7ZK3BCPMLiIwTTUxKCyGjOyBLG9Mls7fc1RJFz42tQGssK6Lq0Bnvqze9tWUDEcDPY0ACqPLJSz8dWqHfmaAtneabx6ky28FL0_HlM-qm-NK5Fug9XrQFMDUrLUQhx8cdyGPzZAVneDARohscAUWZz0&amp;c=VBYtfioTZc747zyuhf3jgLRN12euQVKEX3EiX8ILO1U-K-952Bu7uQ==&amp;ch=La8_1n1C3kOtk_TUEaefws9HLrw_Vf3LirPEfZt5AGjloOZud3HK_A==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Barton, Stafford counties featured in Wheat Harvest Report

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, June 25 - 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts Building

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

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

4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will provide introductions and recognition of personnel.

5. TRIO PROGRAMMING &nbsp; &nbsp;Angie Maddy, Vice President of Student Services will facilitate this discussion.

6. MONITORING REPORT – END 7: STRATEGIC PLANNING &nbsp; &nbsp;Todd Mobray, Director of Institutional Effectiveness will give this report.

7. TRUSTEE REPLACEMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will review for board consideration of approval. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Acceptance of resignation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. Notice of Vacancy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c. Timeline

8. PROPERTY/LIABILITY/WORK COMP INSURANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will review for board consideration of approval.

9. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. BOT Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024

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

11. EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed) &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board will recess, if needed, to executive session in compliance with KSA 75-4319 and with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, June 25 - 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts BuildingAgenda1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will call the meeting to order.2. OFFICIAL BOARD MEETINGS3. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will invite public comments.4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will provide introductions and recognition of personnel.5. TRIO PROGRAMMING &nbsp; &nbsp;Angie Maddy, Vice President of Student Services will facilitate this discussion.6. MONITORING REPORT – END 7: STRATEGIC PLANNING &nbsp; &nbsp;Todd Mobray, Director of Institutional Effectiveness will give this report.7. TRUSTEE REPLACEMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will review for board consideration of approval. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Acceptance of resignation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. Notice of Vacancy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c. Timeline8. PROPERTY/LIABILITY/WORK COMP INSURANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will review for board consideration of approval.9. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; a. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b. BOT Meeting Minutes of May 28, 202410. INCIDENTAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS &nbsp; &nbsp;a. President’s Report of Monthly Activities &nbsp; &nbsp;b. KACC/Board Chair Report by Mike Johnson, Board Chair &nbsp; &nbsp;c. KBOR Update by Carl Heilman, President &nbsp; &nbsp;d. Upcoming Events &nbsp; &nbsp;e. Miscellaneous11. EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed) &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board will recess, if needed, to executive session in compliance with KSA 75-4319 and with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.12. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will again invite public comments.13. ADJOURNMENT

Barton Community College Trustees meeting agenda (6/25)

Food, livestock, 4-H exhibits, and the carnival are usually mainstays at the Barton County Fair each summer. This year, wheels and races will be a big part of a full slate of action on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28 at the fairgrounds. Barton County Fair Association President Charles Atkinson said all street-legal vehicles are welcome for the fourth Cruise Barton County Poker Run Saturday at 4:30 p.m.

"We're going to start at the B-29 Memorial this year at the airport," he said. "We're going to go on a cruise through Barton County to look at the sites, the beauty of our county, make some stops. It's kind of like a poker run - come back to the grounds and cash in your chips."

More wheels are welcome at the Kids Power Wheels race at the Expo I Speedway on Saturday. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and the races begin at 7 p.m.

"We know a lot of these kids have these electric cars that are running around," Atkinson said. "We thought it'd be fun to get those out. We're inviting them to come out, bring out their car.  We're going to give them a pit stall, stage them, having a driver's meeting. We're going run it NASCAR style. Each age group is going to make three laps around the Expo I Speedway, have a little race there, and just have some fun with the kids."

Activities begin at the fairgrounds at 8 a.m. Friday. The Belt Sander Races will get underway at 6 p.m. outside the beer garden, just before the rock concert begins on the Peoples Bank and Trust stage. Saturday's activities begin at 7 a.m. with the Runway Run. Antique tractor pull registration begins at 10 a.m. with competition at 11. Motorcycle drag races begin at 3 p.m. north of Expo III, and the kids tractor pull begins at 4 p.m. inside Expo II. 

The fair will begin its shutdown on Sunday, but not before a sunrise service at 8 a.m. and breakfast at 8:30 a.m. The 4-H BBQ takes place Sunday at 11 a.m. inside Expo I with drive-thru options available. The Celebrity Showmanship contest begins at 1:30 p.m.

<a href="https://www.bartoncountyfair.com/_files/ugd/f23a69_3be527229d34445089df2a19c98e548b.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> to view a full schedule of this year's Barton County Fair.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603813942238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFood, livestock, 4-H exhibits, and the carnival are usually mainstays at the Barton County Fair each summer. This year, wheels and races will be a big part of a full slate of action on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28 at the fairgrounds. Barton County Fair Association President Charles Atkinson said all street-legal vehicles are welcome for the fourth Cruise Barton County Poker Run Saturday at 4:30 p.m."We're going to start at the B-29 Memorial this year at the airport," he said. "We're going to go on a cruise through Barton County to look at the sites, the beauty of our county, make some stops. It's kind of like a poker run - come back to the grounds and cash in your chips."More wheels are welcome at the Kids Power Wheels race at the Expo I Speedway on Saturday. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and the races begin at 7 p.m."We know a lot of these kids have these electric cars that are running around," Atkinson said. "We thought it'd be fun to get those out. We're inviting them to come out, bring out their car. We're going to give them a pit stall, stage them, having a driver's meeting. We're going run it NASCAR style. Each age group is going to make three laps around the Expo I Speedway, have a little race there, and just have some fun with the kids."Activities begin at the fairgrounds at 8 a.m. Friday. The Belt Sander Races will get underway at 6 p.m. outside the beer garden, just before the rock concert begins on the Peoples Bank and Trust stage. Saturday's activities begin at 7 a.m. with the Runway Run. Antique tractor pull registration begins at 10 a.m. with competition at 11. Motorcycle drag races begin at 3 p.m. north of Expo III, and the kids tractor pull begins at 4 p.m. inside Expo II. The fair will begin its shutdown on Sunday, but not before a sunrise service at 8 a.m. and breakfast at 8:30 a.m. The 4-H BBQ takes place Sunday at 11 a.m. inside Expo I with drive-thru options available. The Celebrity Showmanship contest begins at 1:30 p.m.<a href="https://www.bartoncountyfair.com/_files/ugd/f23a69_3be527229d34445089df2a19c98e548b.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> to view a full schedule of this year's Barton County Fair.

Wheels, races prominently featured at 2024 Barton Co. Fair

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/24)

At 7:29 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 3503 10th
Street.

At 11:09 a.m. a theft was reported at 161 SW 10 Avenue.

At 11:31 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.

At 12:02 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
46 NW 48 Road.

At 12:33 p.m. a stroke was reported at 460 Wilson Street in
Galatia.

At 1:58 p.m. a heat exposure case was reported at Lake
Barton.

At 2:31 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 889 SE 50
Road in Ellinwood.

At 3:57 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 20 Road &amp; N.
US 281 Highway.

At 5:16 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 159 S.
US 281 Highway.

At 10:03 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 207 on E. US 56
Highway.

At 11:07 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 192 on
W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/24)

At 12:38 a.m. loud music was reported at 1441 2nd
Street.

At 10:45 a.m. a lost dealer tag was reported at 1200 10th
Street. Incident occurred in Park City.

At 10:54 a.m. a motor home parked on the roadway at Vets was
reported in the 1900 block of McKinley Street.

At 10:57 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3923
Broadway Avenue.

At 12:23 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5807 Aspen
Dr.

At 3:31 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.

At 5:04 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar
Park Pl.

At 7:05 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 6014 Parrish
Ct.

At 7:53 p.m. a report of a suspicious subject in the parking
lot was reported at 3503 10th Street.

At 9:13 p.m. the K-9 was called out at 2920 10th
Street.

At 10:05 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th
Street &amp; Grant Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/24)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 7:29 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 3503 10th
Street.TheftAt 11:09 a.m. a theft was reported at 161 SW 10 Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:31 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.Unconscious / FaintingAt 12:02 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
46 NW 48 Road.StrokeAt 12:33 p.m. a stroke was reported at 460 Wilson Street in
Galatia.Heat / Cold ExposureAt 1:58 p.m. a heat exposure case was reported at Lake
Barton.Animal ComplaintAt 2:31 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 889 SE 50
Road in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:57 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 20 Road &amp; N.
US 281 Highway.Child in Need of CareAt 5:16 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 159 S.
US 281 Highway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:03 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 207 on E. US 56
Highway.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:07 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 192 on
W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/24)Noise ComplaintAt 12:38 a.m. loud music was reported at 1441 2nd
Street.TheftAt 10:45 a.m. a lost dealer tag was reported at 1200 10th
Street. Incident occurred in Park City.Parking ComplaintAt 10:54 a.m. a motor home parked on the roadway at Vets was
reported in the 1900 block of McKinley Street.Heart ProblemsAt 10:57 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3923
Broadway Avenue.Sick PersonAt 12:23 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5807 Aspen
Dr.Unconscious / FaintingAt 3:31 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.Sick PersonAt 5:04 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar
Park Pl.Traumatic InjuriesAt 7:05 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 6014 Parrish
Ct.Sex OffenseAt 7:53 p.m. a report of a suspicious subject in the parking
lot was reported at 3503 10th Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 9:13 p.m. the K-9 was called out at 2920 10th
Street.At 10:05 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th
Street &amp; Grant Street.

Cop Shop (6/24)

Due to an unplanned power outage, KHOK (100.7 FM) is currently off the air. You can stream 100.7 Eagle Country online at <a href="https://khokfm.com/">greatbendpost.com</a>. Click on the Eagle County logo.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this might cause.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630690945242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Eagle Radio - Great Bend...Due to an unplanned power outage, KHOK (100.7 FM) is currently off the air. You can stream 100.7 Eagle Country online at <a href="https://khokfm.com/">greatbendpost.com</a>. Click on the Eagle County logo. We are sorry for any inconvenience this might cause.&nbsp;

KHOK is off the air 

6/24 BOOKED: Jesus Vizcarra-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Brady Holuska-Ringo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Dana Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Disorderly Conduct, no bond set.

BOOKED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Habitual Violator, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Alan Phillips on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Michael Shives on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Dana Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Disorderly Conduct, by order of the county attorney.

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

RELEASED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Habitual Violator, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Shawn Taylor on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: David Lomas on Barton County District Court warrant and three Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/24 BOOKED: Jesus Vizcarra-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Brady Holuska-Ringo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Dana Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Disorderly Conduct, no bond set.BOOKED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Habitual Violator, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Alan Phillips on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.RELEASED: Michael Shives on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Dana Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Disorderly Conduct, by order of the county attorney.RELEASED: Elias Trejo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Habitual Violator, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Shawn Taylor on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: David Lomas on Barton County District Court warrant and three Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/24)

Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 is delighted to invite the community to a special Open House to celebrate the grand opening of the new USD 428 District Education Center and Little Panthers Preschool. The event will be held on Thursday, Aug. 1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the newly renovated location, 1809 24th Street, Great Bend, KS.

The Open House offers an exciting opportunity for the community to tour the facility, meet with school district staff and administrators, and learn more about the free preschool program for 3 &amp; 4-year-old students at Little Panthers Preschool. Attendees will have the chance to see firsthand how the new space is designed to enhance educational experiences and foster a thriving learning environment for our youngest learners.

A brief program and ribbon-cutting ceremony are scheduled to take place at 5:30 p.m., recognizing numerous community donors whose sponsorship helped furnish and equip the 13 preschool classrooms.

“We are thrilled to open the doors of our new district office and preschool,” said USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton. “More than just a building; this facility reflects our district’s dedication to inspiring and empowering students to succeed. We are deeply grateful for the community's support in making this dream a reality, and we are confident that it will establish a strong foundation for learning for generations to come.”

· Date: Thursday, Aug. 1 · Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. (Brief program &amp; ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.) · Location: 1809 24th Street, Great Bend, KS

For more information about the Community Open House, please contact Andrea Bauer, Public Information Director, by calling the District Education Center at 620-793-1500. Little Panthers Preschool is now enrolling for Fall 2024. Parents are invited to inquire about preschool by calling Little Panthers Preschool at 620-793-1662.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719262282449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 is delighted to invite the community to a special Open House to celebrate the grand opening of the new USD 428 District Education Center and Little Panthers Preschool. The event will be held on Thursday, Aug. 1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the newly renovated location, 1809 24th Street, Great Bend, KS.The Open House offers an exciting opportunity for the community to tour the facility, meet with school district staff and administrators, and learn more about the free preschool program for 3 &amp; 4-year-old students at Little Panthers Preschool. Attendees will have the chance to see firsthand how the new space is designed to enhance educational experiences and foster a thriving learning environment for our youngest learners.A brief program and ribbon-cutting ceremony are scheduled to take place at 5:30 p.m., recognizing numerous community donors whose sponsorship helped furnish and equip the 13 preschool classrooms.“We are thrilled to open the doors of our new district office and preschool,” said USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton. “More than just a building; this facility reflects our district’s dedication to inspiring and empowering students to succeed. We are deeply grateful for the community's support in making this dream a reality, and we are confident that it will establish a strong foundation for learning for generations to come.”Event Details:· Date: Thursday, Aug. 1 · Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. (Brief program &amp; ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.) · Location: 1809 24th Street, Great Bend, KSFor more information about the Community Open House, please contact Andrea Bauer, Public Information Director, by calling the District Education Center at 620-793-1500. Little Panthers Preschool is now enrolling for Fall 2024. Parents are invited to inquire about preschool by calling Little Panthers Preschool at 620-793-1662.

Open house for new USD 428 DEC and preschool Aug. 1

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

First opened in 1964, the Geneseo City Museum, offers a good history of
the small town in northern Rice County. The museum also helped get Geneseo the
official title of UFO Capital of Kansas. Founder Dr. E.D. Janzen enjoyed
researching flying-saucer sightings and aliens. 

B&amp;B Metal Arts in
Hoisington, just over 30 miles to the west of Geneseo on K-4 Highway, will help
in the UFO fascination by creating a sculpture of Gort, the fictional robot
that appeared in the 1951 film, The Day the Earth Stood Still. Bruce Bitter,
with B&amp;B Metal Arts, said the connection to create this 8' tall
sculpture started decades ago when his business first started.


"The mercantile in Ellsworth, Jim Gray was running it," said Bitter. "We went in there with our metal art, and Gray just loved it. He asked if we could make an old, rusty, longhorn cow. So we made it and that was big hit. Gray has always thought a lot of us throughout the years, and 30 years later this came up and he knew exactly who to give a call."

The Geneseo City Museum received a Kansas Department of Commerce grant to help
fund the sculpture. The robot will be dedicated during the third annual Kansas
UFO Day at the museum on July 6.


"When I tell people what I'm doing, they just smile," said Bitter. "I don't know what that smile means...if it's kind of cute, are you serious or go right on ahead. In the past, I started off cutting flat silhouettes and then we added color. We've done three dimensional sculptures, but this a three-dimensional, exact duplicate of Gort."

Along with the statue dedication, Kansas UFO Day will include paranormal
speakers, vendors, spacecraft displays, kids games, UFO watch and an outdoor
movie.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Visit the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/406552822030767/?ref=newsfeed">Geneseo City Museum Facebook page</a> for more details on Kansas UFO Day events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719244759565.jpeg" alt="Picture of Gort, the robot featured in the film "The Day the Earth Stood Still." B&amp;B Metal Arts in Hoisington is creating a life-size duplicate of Gort for the Geneseo City Museum." />
 <figcaption>Picture of Gort, the robot featured in the film "The Day the Earth Stood Still." B&amp;B Metal Arts in Hoisington is creating a life-size duplicate of Gort for the Geneseo City Museum.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFirst opened in 1964, the Geneseo City Museum, offers a good history of
the small town in northern Rice County. The museum also helped get Geneseo the
official title of UFO Capital of Kansas. Founder Dr. E.D. Janzen enjoyed
researching flying-saucer sightings and aliens. B&amp;B Metal Arts in
Hoisington, just over 30 miles to the west of Geneseo on K-4 Highway, will help
in the UFO fascination by creating a sculpture of Gort, the fictional robot
that appeared in the 1951 film, The Day the Earth Stood Still. Bruce Bitter,
with B&amp;B Metal Arts, said the connection to create this 8' tall
sculpture started decades ago when his business first started.
"The mercantile in Ellsworth, Jim Gray was running it," said Bitter. "We went in there with our metal art, and Gray just loved it. He asked if we could make an old, rusty, longhorn cow. So we made it and that was big hit. Gray has always thought a lot of us throughout the years, and 30 years later this came up and he knew exactly who to give a call."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719244871619.jpeg" alt="Geneseo City Museum" />
 <figcaption>Geneseo City Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>The Geneseo City Museum received a Kansas Department of Commerce grant to help
fund the sculpture. The robot will be dedicated during the third annual Kansas
UFO Day at the museum on July 6.
"When I tell people what I'm doing, they just smile," said Bitter. "I don't know what that smile means...if it's kind of cute, are you serious or go right on ahead. In the past, I started off cutting flat silhouettes and then we added color. We've done three dimensional sculptures, but this a three-dimensional, exact duplicate of Gort."Along with the statue dedication, Kansas UFO Day will include paranormal
speakers, vendors, spacecraft displays, kids games, UFO watch and an outdoor
movie.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Visit the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/406552822030767/?ref=newsfeed">Geneseo City Museum Facebook page</a> for more details on Kansas UFO Day events.

Hoisington’s B&B Metal Arts’ creation for UFO enthusiasts 

Today A chance of showers before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 100. South wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 9 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 93. North-northwest wind 9 to 15 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 68. East wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Breezy, with a southeast wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.

Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99.

Friday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 90.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.

Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A chance of showers before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 100. South wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 9 mph becoming northwest after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 93. North-northwest wind 9 to 15 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 68. East wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Breezy, with a southeast wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99.Friday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69.Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 90.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

A field survey for proposed K-4 guardrail improvements will begin soon in Rush and Barton counties. The survey for the Kansas Department of Transportation will be 7 miles east of the&nbsp;K-4/U.S.183 junction at La Crosse, in Rush County. The survey also will be almost a quarter of a mile east of the K-4/120th Avenue junction near Claflin, in Barton County. The survey length is about 1,000&nbsp;feet. It will be based on the existing alignment. The field survey will begin around July 2 and be completed by July 31. The survey will gather information needed for the detailed design of the proposed improvements. A member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property if needed. Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. Michael Small, P.S., Survey Project Manager, MKEC, will be in charge of this survey for KDOT. The maps below show the project location, circled.

A field survey for proposed K-4 guardrail improvements will begin soon in Rush and Barton counties. The survey for the Kansas Department of Transportation will be 7 miles east of the&nbsp;K-4/U.S.183 junction at La Crosse, in Rush County. The survey also will be almost a quarter of a mile east of the K-4/120th Avenue junction near Claflin, in Barton County. The survey length is about 1,000&nbsp;feet. It will be based on the existing alignment. The field survey will begin around July 2 and be completed by July 31. The survey will gather information needed for the detailed design of the proposed improvements. A member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property if needed. Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. Michael Small, P.S., Survey Project Manager, MKEC, will be in charge of this survey for KDOT. The maps below show the project location, circled.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719261705614.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719261720413.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Survey for guardrail improvements in Barton, Rush counties

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/3KSJleF. 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 June 25, 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. Consider the minutes of the June 11, 2024. Minutes of the June 18, 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. PROCLAMATION 2024-14: Great Bend Bat Cats Day ~ June 25, 2024: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will provide details. The Great Bend Bat Cats began playing in June, 2017, at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend, Kansas. Managed by Roger Ward, Head Coach, the Bat Cats play from June through the end of season tournaments, with both home and away games. The Commission will be asked to adopt a Proclamation recognizing the players, staff and sponsors for their dedication to the game and their commitment to health, leadership and community.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. SOLID WASTE: Diesel Fuel Quote 2024-2025: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. The Landfill accepted quotes to purchase 25,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The quote requested a price per gallon, with the fuel price extending through July 1, 2025, or the 25,000-gallon mark is exceeded.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COUNTY ENGINEER: Design agreement for the replacement of Off-System Bridge No. 189: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. Requests for qualifications were accepted for the design work associated with replacing Off-System Bridge No. 189. The bridge is located on NE 20 Avenue, a short distance northeast of Great Bend over the Dry Walnut Creek. Kirkham Michael was the only firm to express interest. The firm has submitted a design agreement in the amount of $74,000.00 for design services.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. COUNTY APPRAISER: Continuation of Employment Agreement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will provide details. Per Kansas statute, an Appraiser must be appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1993. Wendy Prosser, currently serving as County Appraiser, was last appointed for a term beginning July 1, 2021. At that time, she was offered an employment agreement that ended in 2024. It is suggested that the employment agreement be extended to June 30, 2025, thus coinciding with the statutory end date of her current four-year term.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. GREAT PLAINS DEVELOPMENT INC: Continuation of Membership: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. Great Plains Development, Inc. (GPDI) boosts job creation, spurs economic development and improves the quality of life in Southwest Kansas. GPDI provides financing, loan packaging and business assistance to individuals, businesses and government agencies to stimulate economic development within their 28-county region. Partners include city and county governments, local banks, Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas SBDC business planning, EDA, SBA, USDA and NetWork Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. 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; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Sheriff’s Office Independence Day luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, June 27, 2024. The luncheon is held at the Sheriff’s Administrative Building, 1416 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

&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 – Program Review – Darren Williams, County Works Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Painting at the Health Department – Karen Winkelman, Health Director.

BUDGET MEETINGS &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. Barton County Fair Association &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. Family Crisis Center &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. RSVP &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. Information Technology &nbsp; &nbsp;11:30 a.m. Golden Belt Humane Society &nbsp; &nbsp;1:15 p.m. The Center &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. Solid Waste &nbsp; &nbsp;1:45 p.m. Treasurer &nbsp; &nbsp;2:00 p.m. Sheriff’s Office &nbsp; &nbsp;2:30 p.m. District Court &nbsp; &nbsp;2:45 p.m. Emergency Management &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. County Appraiser &nbsp; &nbsp;3:15 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, is scheduled for June 27, 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 2, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.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/3KSJleF. 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 June 25, 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. Consider the minutes of the June 11, 2024. Minutes of the June 18, 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. PROCLAMATION 2024-14: Great Bend Bat Cats Day ~ June 25, 2024: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will provide details. The Great Bend Bat Cats began playing in June, 2017, at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend, Kansas. Managed by Roger Ward, Head Coach, the Bat Cats play from June through the end of season tournaments, with both home and away games. The Commission will be asked to adopt a Proclamation recognizing the players, staff and sponsors for their dedication to the game and their commitment to health, leadership and community.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. SOLID WASTE: Diesel Fuel Quote 2024-2025: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. The Landfill accepted quotes to purchase 25,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The quote requested a price per gallon, with the fuel price extending through July 1, 2025, or the 25,000-gallon mark is exceeded.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COUNTY ENGINEER: Design agreement for the replacement of Off-System Bridge No. 189: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. Requests for qualifications were accepted for the design work associated with replacing Off-System Bridge No. 189. The bridge is located on NE 20 Avenue, a short distance northeast of Great Bend over the Dry Walnut Creek. Kirkham Michael was the only firm to express interest. The firm has submitted a design agreement in the amount of $74,000.00 for design services.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. COUNTY APPRAISER: Continuation of Employment Agreement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will provide details. Per Kansas statute, an Appraiser must be appointed for a four-year term every fourth year following July 1, 1993. Wendy Prosser, currently serving as County Appraiser, was last appointed for a term beginning July 1, 2021. At that time, she was offered an employment agreement that ended in 2024. It is suggested that the employment agreement be extended to June 30, 2025, thus coinciding with the statutory end date of her current four-year term.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. GREAT PLAINS DEVELOPMENT INC: Continuation of Membership: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. Great Plains Development, Inc. (GPDI) boosts job creation, spurs economic development and improves the quality of life in Southwest Kansas. GPDI provides financing, loan packaging and business assistance to individuals, businesses and government agencies to stimulate economic development within their 28-county region. Partners include city and county governments, local banks, Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas SBDC business planning, EDA, SBA, USDA and NetWork Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. 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; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Sheriff’s Office Independence Day luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, June 27, 2024. The luncheon is held at the Sheriff’s Administrative Building, 1416 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.&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 – Program Review – Darren Williams, County Works Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Painting at the Health Department – Karen Winkelman, Health Director.BUDGET MEETINGS &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. Barton County Fair Association &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. Family Crisis Center &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. RSVP &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. Information Technology &nbsp; &nbsp;11:30 a.m. Golden Belt Humane Society &nbsp; &nbsp;1:15 p.m. The Center &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. Solid Waste &nbsp; &nbsp;1:45 p.m. Treasurer &nbsp; &nbsp;2:00 p.m. Sheriff’s Office &nbsp; &nbsp;2:30 p.m. District Court &nbsp; &nbsp;2:45 p.m. Emergency Management &nbsp; &nbsp;3:00 p.m. County Appraiser &nbsp; &nbsp;3:15 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, is scheduled for June 27, 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 2, 2024.VI. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (6/25)

If I sound excited, it is because I look forward to interacting with the community and, especially, our 4-H members as they share their year-long project work with judges and all of you!

I love walking through Expo III first thing in the morning to the sound of 4-H members and their families as they begin to feed, water, and clean pens. I love when a 4-H member is so excited to tell me about their judging interaction. I love watching a 4-H youth who struggles to look a judge in the eye and has gained confidence to have that conversation and beam as they walk away. I love to sit quietly with a 4-H member who is facing the finality of a market animal project or their last fair. I love watching family members – sometimes multiple generations – work together to help with livestock projects, learn how to make that angel food cake just right, or to write a thank you note to a buyer or award sponsor.

I am so proud of the patience and perseverance they are developing! Do they get it right every time? Nope, but neither do I. I am so proud of watching skills develop in woodworking or photography or foods – these are lifetime skills that may become hobbies or careers!

4-H is the only Extension program that comes with an inherent level of competition. Competition and good sportsmanship go hand-in-hand and learning how to work hard, be a fair competitor, and humble when you win, or don’t, are life skills that are hard to measure but recognizable when they happen.

This week the weather forecast is HOT! We encourage 4-H families and all participants at the fair to stay cool….in temperature and temperament.

If you see me at the fair, ask me about my favorite thing of the day! If you see a 4-H member at the fair, ask about their favorite thing of the day also. Mostly, come out and support our 4-H members and the community who have entered open class entries. You will be amazed at the Blue Jeans and Big Dreams on display in the Expo buildings.

<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>If I sound excited, it is because I look forward to interacting with the community and, especially, our 4-H members as they share their year-long project work with judges and all of you!I love walking through Expo III first thing in the morning to the sound of 4-H members and their families as they begin to feed, water, and clean pens. I love when a 4-H member is so excited to tell me about their judging interaction. I love watching a 4-H youth who struggles to look a judge in the eye and has gained confidence to have that conversation and beam as they walk away. I love to sit quietly with a 4-H member who is facing the finality of a market animal project or their last fair. I love watching family members – sometimes multiple generations – work together to help with livestock projects, learn how to make that angel food cake just right, or to write a thank you note to a buyer or award sponsor.I am so proud of the patience and perseverance they are developing! Do they get it right every time? Nope, but neither do I. I am so proud of watching skills develop in woodworking or photography or foods – these are lifetime skills that may become hobbies or careers!4-H is the only Extension program that comes with an inherent level of competition. Competition and good sportsmanship go hand-in-hand and learning how to work hard, be a fair competitor, and humble when you win, or don’t, are life skills that are hard to measure but recognizable when they happen.This week the weather forecast is HOT! We encourage 4-H families and all participants at the fair to stay cool….in temperature and temperament.If you see me at the fair, ask me about my favorite thing of the day! If you see a 4-H member at the fair, ask about their favorite thing of the day also. Mostly, come out and support our 4-H members and the community who have entered open class entries. You will be amazed at the Blue Jeans and Big Dreams on display in the Expo buildings.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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