Hear this month's Focus on Hoisington show with Hoisington Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper and Eagle Radio's Mike Hesher that aired June 13, 2024.

The Focus on Hoisington program airs the second Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Focus on Hoisington show with Hoisington Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper and Eagle Radio's Mike Hesher that aired June 13, 2024.<div><iframe title="Focus on Hoisington show" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=cykr2-163f868-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Focus on Hoisington program airs the second Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Focus on Hoisington show

Last semester, I asked my sustainable city planning class to close their eyes and visualize the typologies of five cradle-to-grave residences: birth residence, high school residence, current residence, parent’s residence, and oldest family member’s residence.

About 80% visualized at least two of the four basic residential typologies – single-family detached, single-family attached, small multi-family, and large multi-family (20+ units).

Yet, local zoning laws are almost exclusively tilted towards only one type - single-family detached. It’s common to find 80-90% of residential zoning dedicated to the most expensive and land-consumptive typology.

Unsuspectingly, my students demonstrated two profound points: equitable housing choices are a basic need in life, and ignoring zoning reform will be done at the peril of your community’s prosperity.

Just ask The Fonz! The iconic leather-jacketed uber-cool greaser of ABC’s Happy Days sitcom from my 70s childhood. Long before today’s demographic and economic shifts necessitated rethinking our love affair with single-family zoning – delayed marriages, lower birth rates, elderly adults soon outnumbering children, rising single-person households – Fonzie was making zoning reform cool.

He lived in a small accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the Cunningham family’s garage subordinate to their primary residence. Lending to his coolness, it was illegal. But it offset Mr. and Mrs. C’s mortgage costs and gave suburbia a housing choice for working-class mechanics it didn’t have otherwise. The property not only posed theatrically as a quintessential 1950s suburb but as a bellwether for today’s zoning reform front lines.

The fact that it is still illegal in most of America should come as no surprise. What may surprise you is the juice this idea is gaining in city halls and capitals to address critical shortfalls in housing. California, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut, and Maine have led state-enabling acts for ADUs and prohibit local bans. Others as big as Texas are very close. Some cities like Minneapolis and Alexandria, Virginia have monumentally done away with single-family zoning altogether.

While ADU zoning is decidedly a local matter, housing supply is of mutual interest to states and locals. Cooperative state legislation has shown it can provide political cover to local governments prone to the weight of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) proselytizing. As Cincinnati’s Mayor, Aftab Pureval puts it, “The third rail of local politics is zoning”.

In Kansas, legislators and mayors should be aware that easing up on zoning to allow small and multi-family units garnered astonishing support in the statewide Kansas Speaks survey last year – 44% favored vs. 14% against. This is not true everywhere like Prairie Village. However, Topeka is the latest of a few municipalities to go down the zoning reform path with ADUs. As they mull a proposal to open 100% of their residential zoning to ADUs under certain conditions, its significance should not be understated; if only 5% of the newly opened areas contained ADUs, around 2,500 units would be created or 30% of their 20-year multi-family demand. Other benefits – aging in place, multigenerational living, and passive income for homeowners – are no less significant.

ADUs are not a silver bullet. Addressing other zoning barriers for live-work units, “missing middle” typologies (duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, small apartments), transit-oriented development, minimum lot sizes, density caps, and parking mandates are complimentary.

But wouldn’t it be cool if openness to naturally occurring affordable housing is closer in reach with the stroke of a pen and some new map colors than a tax dollar?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708024541249.jpeg" alt="written by: Bill Fiander - Teacher of university courses specializing in public administration and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University." />
 <figcaption>written by: Bill Fiander - Teacher of university courses specializing in public administration and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last semester, I asked my sustainable city planning class to close their eyes and visualize the typologies of five cradle-to-grave residences: birth residence, high school residence, current residence, parent’s residence, and oldest family member’s residence.About 80% visualized at least two of the four basic residential typologies – single-family detached, single-family attached, small multi-family, and large multi-family (20+ units).Yet, local zoning laws are almost exclusively tilted towards only one type - single-family detached. It’s common to find 80-90% of residential zoning dedicated to the most expensive and land-consumptive typology.Unsuspectingly, my students demonstrated two profound points: equitable housing choices are a basic need in life, and ignoring zoning reform will be done at the peril of your community’s prosperity.Just ask The Fonz! The iconic leather-jacketed uber-cool greaser of ABC’s Happy Days sitcom from my 70s childhood. Long before today’s demographic and economic shifts necessitated rethinking our love affair with single-family zoning – delayed marriages, lower birth rates, elderly adults soon outnumbering children, rising single-person households – Fonzie was making zoning reform cool.He lived in a small accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the Cunningham family’s garage subordinate to their primary residence. Lending to his coolness, it was illegal. But it offset Mr. and Mrs. C’s mortgage costs and gave suburbia a housing choice for working-class mechanics it didn’t have otherwise. The property not only posed theatrically as a quintessential 1950s suburb but as a bellwether for today’s zoning reform front lines.The fact that it is still illegal in most of America should come as no surprise. What may surprise you is the juice this idea is gaining in city halls and capitals to address critical shortfalls in housing. California, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut, and Maine have led state-enabling acts for ADUs and prohibit local bans. Others as big as Texas are very close. Some cities like Minneapolis and Alexandria, Virginia have monumentally done away with single-family zoning altogether.While ADU zoning is decidedly a local matter, housing supply is of mutual interest to states and locals. Cooperative state legislation has shown it can provide political cover to local governments prone to the weight of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) proselytizing. As Cincinnati’s Mayor, Aftab Pureval puts it, “The third rail of local politics is zoning”.In Kansas, legislators and mayors should be aware that easing up on zoning to allow small and multi-family units garnered astonishing support in the statewide Kansas Speaks survey last year – 44% favored vs. 14% against. This is not true everywhere like Prairie Village. However, Topeka is the latest of a few municipalities to go down the zoning reform path with ADUs. As they mull a proposal to open 100% of their residential zoning to ADUs under certain conditions, its significance should not be understated; if only 5% of the newly opened areas contained ADUs, around 2,500 units would be created or 30% of their 20-year multi-family demand. Other benefits – aging in place, multigenerational living, and passive income for homeowners – are no less significant.ADUs are not a silver bullet. Addressing other zoning barriers for live-work units, “missing middle” typologies (duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, small apartments), transit-oriented development, minimum lot sizes, density caps, and parking mandates are complimentary.But wouldn’t it be cool if openness to naturally occurring affordable housing is closer in reach with the stroke of a pen and some new map colors than a tax dollar?Heeey!

INSIGHT KANSAS: Happy days of housing supply

The Great Bend Recreation Commission is coordinating a Facebook contest. Post your sidewalk chalk creations in the comment section of the GBRC Facebook post for your chance to win a prize pack from the Great Bend Rec. 

Three winners will be randomly selected. Contest will close on Monday, June 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718376826592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission is coordinating a Facebook contest. Post your sidewalk chalk creations in the comment section of the GBRC Facebook post for your chance to win a prize pack from the Great Bend Rec. Three winners will be randomly selected. Contest will close on Monday, June 17.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTheRecGB%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02Z39ShJC9JKyxfLFzzwSaZZjxh1sjEUg4AHE4M19TnRYkpQcZPHYvWBJL7ye5Hgczl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="568" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Great Bend Rec's chalk contest ends Monday

Stafford County Economic Development is sponsoring its annual photography contest for images that may be used on promotional materials and/or its website. A $25 prize will be given to the winner in each of the three categories listed below, and an unlimited number of honorable mention winners will receive a $5 prize. The categories are as follows:

- PEOPLE: depicting individuals interacting by conversation or work.

- PLACES: the areas and businesses we utilize, as well as unique locations of Stafford County.

- COMMERCE: business interactions within our cities or beyond city limits, but within Stafford County.

In all categories, consideration will be given to the clarity of the image, visual appeal, and artistic quality. Photos that include people and portray everyday life are encouraged. Images are valued for their ability to portray a vibrant, progressive culture.

2024 Contest Rules: 1. All exhibits must be entered by 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at the Stafford Recreation Building.

2. Exhibitor must be the person who took the photo.

3. Exhibitors are only allowed two photos per category (six photos maximum for the contest).

4. All photos are to be 5 x 7 inches and mounted on an 11 x 12.5 studio mount that can be purchased at the Stafford County Extension Office. The mounting board must be vertically oriented.

5. Photos must be taken in Stafford County, Kansas.

6. Exhibitors must complete the Release Form and attach it to the back of the studio mount.

7. Photos should be full color (no black and white).

8. Winners will be selected by representatives of Stafford County Economic Development, Wednesday evening, July 14.

9. A digital file in .jpg format must be provided before prize money will be paid.

Only photos receiving a price will be used for promotional materials.

<a href="https://staffordecodevo.com/2024/06/2024-photo-contest/">CLICK HERE</a> for more details or email ryan@staffordecodevo.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718109833194.jpeg" alt="One of the winning photos from last year's Stafford County Economic Development Photo Contest." />
 <figcaption>One of the winning photos from last year's Stafford County Economic Development Photo Contest.</figcaption>
 </figure>Stafford County Economic Development is sponsoring its annual photography contest for images that may be used on promotional materials and/or its website. A $25 prize will be given to the winner in each of the three categories listed below, and an unlimited number of honorable mention winners will receive a $5 prize. The categories are as follows:- PEOPLE: depicting individuals interacting by conversation or work.- PLACES: the areas and businesses we utilize, as well as unique locations of Stafford County.- COMMERCE: business interactions within our cities or beyond city limits, but within Stafford County.In all categories, consideration will be given to the clarity of the image, visual appeal, and artistic quality. Photos that include people and portray everyday life are encouraged. Images are valued for their ability to portray a vibrant, progressive culture.2024 Contest Rules: 1. All exhibits must be entered by 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at the Stafford Recreation Building.2. Exhibitor must be the person who took the photo.3. Exhibitors are only allowed two photos per category (six photos maximum for the contest).4. All photos are to be 5 x 7 inches and mounted on an 11 x 12.5 studio mount that can be purchased at the Stafford County Extension Office. The mounting board must be vertically oriented.5. Photos must be taken in Stafford County, Kansas.6. Exhibitors must complete the Release Form and attach it to the back of the studio mount.7. Photos should be full color (no black and white).8. Winners will be selected by representatives of Stafford County Economic Development, Wednesday evening, July 14.9. A digital file in .jpg format must be provided before prize money will be paid.Only photos receiving a price will be used for promotional materials.<a href="https://staffordecodevo.com/2024/06/2024-photo-contest/">CLICK HERE</a> for more details or email ryan@staffordecodevo.com.

Stafford County Economic Development Photo Contest is back

Our years of marriage have required serious budget stretching strategies. The first year, we discovered garage sales offered opportunities to buy anything from yard and garden tools, kitchen essentials, décor, and other crazy stuff folks who start out with nothing need. The fact we never knew what we’d find added adventure to those quests. It was like a perpetual Forrest Gump box of chocolates.

For pennies, we multiplied sparse kitchen inventory into cupboards full of vintage bowls, Bakelite choppers, pans, and wire potato mashers just like gramma’s. She still used her stuff, so when I’d find something similar for the right price, I added to my stash. Not only did people sell vintage items, they’d put unused or barely used towels, mitts, curtains, griddles, blenders, and such on their sale. For pennies on the dollar, I bought a sturdy blender and new in the box waffle iron to develop culinary skills. Once I realized I didn’t like cleaning waffle irons, I traded it for something I really needed.

Similar bargains filled our mostly empty family tool box. We found everything from hoes, rakes, and tomato cages to multitudinous screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, saws, and more. Over time, our collection grew so that when we could comfortably share tools and hardly miss them.

Once our family expanded, such bargains furnished and decorated a nursery. We found a barely used cherry wood crib for infant daughters to sleep in. My mom embroidered an heirloom baby quilt, but garage sales added sheets, hooded towels, and adorable sleepers. Those who shop regularly know they’ll eventually find exactly what they want in great condition. That may mean hitting sales for weeks in a row and not bringing anything home, but eureka moments await.

Over time, we went through Mickey Mouse tables and chairs, art supplies, balls, bats, gloves, and lots of cute clothes. If I found an adorable something the girls would wear only a time or two, I’d buy it and later pass it to a friend with smaller kids. Same with toys. If what I brought home entertained the girls only a moment, it soon found a new home.

Once grandkids came along, the search for kid clothes, games, and toys began again. Discovering a boxed, beautiful Barbie brightened one grands’ day. Another eagerly awaits art and craft supply deliveries to refill her stash. Every kid has their choice of baseball mitts. All our grands eagerly anticipate fishing gear finds. They love new bobbers, lures, and nets.

One of the curses of being a lifelong bargain hunter is that space limits treasure you can bring home. We reached capacity long ago, so when new comes in—book, kitchenware, décor, tool, toy—something goes into the donation box in the trunk, delivered 2x monthly. I refuse to unpack a cupboard, closet, or drawer to find what I’m looking for. This rule makes that doable. It also guarantees thrift store employees recognize us.

Some folks don’t have time to garage sale; some don’t enjoy it. If you have time and you don’t mind waiting til you find what you want at a sale, this offers a less expensive means to entertain yourself, especially since you never know what you’ll find.

By KAREN MADORINOur years of marriage have required serious budget stretching strategies. The first year, we discovered garage sales offered opportunities to buy anything from yard and garden tools, kitchen essentials, décor, and other crazy stuff folks who start out with nothing need. The fact we never knew what we’d find added adventure to those quests. It was like a perpetual Forrest Gump box of chocolates.For pennies, we multiplied sparse kitchen inventory into cupboards full of vintage bowls, Bakelite choppers, pans, and wire potato mashers just like gramma’s. She still used her stuff, so when I’d find something similar for the right price, I added to my stash. Not only did people sell vintage items, they’d put unused or barely used towels, mitts, curtains, griddles, blenders, and such on their sale. For pennies on the dollar, I bought a sturdy blender and new in the box waffle iron to develop culinary skills. Once I realized I didn’t like cleaning waffle irons, I traded it for something I really needed.Similar bargains filled our mostly empty family tool box. We found everything from hoes, rakes, and tomato cages to multitudinous screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, saws, and more. Over time, our collection grew so that when we could comfortably share tools and hardly miss them.Once our family expanded, such bargains furnished and decorated a nursery. We found a barely used cherry wood crib for infant daughters to sleep in. My mom embroidered an heirloom baby quilt, but garage sales added sheets, hooded towels, and adorable sleepers. Those who shop regularly know they’ll eventually find exactly what they want in great condition. That may mean hitting sales for weeks in a row and not bringing anything home, but eureka moments await.Over time, we went through Mickey Mouse tables and chairs, art supplies, balls, bats, gloves, and lots of cute clothes. If I found an adorable something the girls would wear only a time or two, I’d buy it and later pass it to a friend with smaller kids. Same with toys. If what I brought home entertained the girls only a moment, it soon found a new home.Once grandkids came along, the search for kid clothes, games, and toys began again. Discovering a boxed, beautiful Barbie brightened one grands’ day. Another eagerly awaits art and craft supply deliveries to refill her stash. Every kid has their choice of baseball mitts. All our grands eagerly anticipate fishing gear finds. They love new bobbers, lures, and nets.One of the curses of being a lifelong bargain hunter is that space limits treasure you can bring home. We reached capacity long ago, so when new comes in—book, kitchenware, décor, tool, toy—something goes into the donation box in the trunk, delivered 2x monthly. I refuse to unpack a cupboard, closet, or drawer to find what I’m looking for. This rule makes that doable. It also guarantees thrift store employees recognize us.Some folks don’t have time to garage sale; some don’t enjoy it. If you have time and you don’t mind waiting til you find what you want at a sale, this offers a less expensive means to entertain yourself, especially since you never know what you’ll find.

MADORIN: Budget fun

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c8216711-a5fa-4de5-9fc7-1159d697a100">USD 428 board approves increase for lunches at Great Bend schools</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/349bcdf3-ef3b-4bee-99dd-e74512b223e4">The Odin Store hosting grand re-opening on June 21</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e71e8453-c519-4a16-86c3-1c1c441555a5">Great Bend considering raising prices at city pool/waterpark</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718393280326.jpeg" alt="The City of Great Bend is considering raising prices at the city pool/waterpark." />
 <figcaption>The City of Great Bend is considering raising prices at the city pool/waterpark.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/o1o32gn1/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c8216711-a5fa-4de5-9fc7-1159d697a100">USD 428 board approves increase for lunches at Great Bend schools</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/349bcdf3-ef3b-4bee-99dd-e74512b223e4">The Odin Store hosting grand re-opening on June 21</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e71e8453-c519-4a16-86c3-1c1c441555a5">Great Bend considering raising prices at city pool/waterpark</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

When conversation began this past Monday at the USD 428 Board of Education meeting about providing meals to the new Bright Beginnings childcare facility in Great Bend, concerns of setting a precedent and fairness to other daycares were discussed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b9b90e4f-e786-4a83-b4d7-a3bddc259068">Read the full story here: Great Bend BOE not ready to enter into lunch agreement with new daycare</a>

Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger published a video responding to citizens’ concerns and questions. View the video below.

Great Bend PostWhen conversation began this past Monday at the USD 428 Board of Education meeting about providing meals to the new Bright Beginnings childcare facility in Great Bend, concerns of setting a precedent and fairness to other daycares were discussed.&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b9b90e4f-e786-4a83-b4d7-a3bddc259068">Read the full story here: Great Bend BOE not ready to enter into lunch agreement with new daycare</a>Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger published a video responding to citizens’ concerns and questions. View the video below.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGBEconomicDevelopment%2Fvideos%2F1669763666895022%2F%3Fref%3Dembed_video&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" 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>

Great Bend Eco Devo responds to childcare food services questions

TOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;As part of continuing efforts to protect the senior community, the Internal Revenue Service today issued a warning about the rising threat of impersonation scams.

These scams are targeting older adults in Kansas and elsewhere across the country by pretending to be government officials, aiming to steal sensitive personal information and money. By posing as representatives from agencies such as the IRS, or other government agencies,&nbsp;these fraudsters use fear and deceit to exploit their victims.

“Scammers often target seniors, attempting to steal personal information through phone calls, emails or text messages by pretending to be from the IRS or other agencies or businesses,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Preventing these types of scams requires assistance from many different places. By partnering with other federal agencies and others in the tax community, we can reach more seniors and other taxpayers to help protect them against these terrible scams.”

This is part of a wider effort taking place this week leading up to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on Saturday, June 15. WEAAD, observed since June 15, 2006, aims to foster a better understanding of the neglect and abuse faced by millions of older adults, focusing attention on the contributing cultural, social, economic and demographic factors.

The IRS also has been engaged in long-term efforts to protect against scams and other related schemes, including identity theft. This has been an ongoing focus of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>&nbsp;partnership between the IRS, state tax agencies and the nation’s tax professional community since 2015.

The IRS has identified a concerning trend where fraudulent actors are increasingly targeting unsuspecting individuals, particularly senior citizens, by masquerading as IRS agents. Victims are pressured into making immediate payments through unorthodox methods such as gift cards or wire transfers under the pretense of resolving fictitious tax liabilities or securing false refunds.

These scammers deploy advanced techniques to fabricate a veneer of credibility, including the manipulation of caller IDs to appear legitimate. Here are just a few examples of their schemes:

If an individual receives an unexpected call from someone alleging to be from the IRS, but they have not been notified by mail about any issues with their IRS account, they should hang up immediately. The call is likely from a scammer.

Do not return the call using the number provided by the caller or the one displayed on their caller ID. If taxpayers are uncertain about the legitimacy of IRS communications, they can contact IRS customer service for verification at&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-829-1040">800-829-1040</a>, or for the hearing impaired, TTY/TDD&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-829-4059">800-829-4059</a>.

To view details about an individual’s tax account, they can set up or check their IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-individual-online-account">individual online account</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.

Electronic scams are also on the rise, with scammers sending malicious emails and texts posing as IRS representatives to steal personal information. The IRS reminds taxpayers that it does not&nbsp;initiate&nbsp;contact via email, text, or social media regarding tax bills or refunds.

Report the call or electronic scam by visiting the Hotline page of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and using an&nbsp;IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form&nbsp;or by calling&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-366-4484">800-366-4484</a>. Forms to report different types of fraud are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/reportcrime-misconduct">Hotline page of Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration website</a>. Taxpayers can click the appropriate option under "IRS Scams and Fraud" and follow the instructions.

Individuals should understand how and when the IRS contacts taxpayers to help them verify whether any communication they receive is genuinely from an IRS employee.

Most IRS communications are initiated through regular mail delivered by the United States Postal Service. However, in certain situations, the IRS may make phone calls or visit homes or businesses. These situations include having an overdue tax bill, an unfiled tax return or missing employment tax deposit.

Additionally, an IRS employee might review assets or inspect a business as part of a collection investigation, audit or ongoing criminal investigation.

Remaining vigilant and informed about these scams can help protect taxpayers from financial loss and identity theft. The IRS and partnering federal agencies urge everyone to be cautious, especially when dealing with unsolicited communications concerning taxes.

In March 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice introduced the National Elder Fraud Hotline to address fraud targeting elderly Americans and support affected individuals. If an individual has fallen victim to elder fraud, they can contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).

The hotline operates Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, and services are available in English, Spanish, and other languages.

IRSTOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;As part of continuing efforts to protect the senior community, the Internal Revenue Service today issued a warning about the rising threat of impersonation scams.These scams are targeting older adults in Kansas and elsewhere across the country by pretending to be government officials, aiming to steal sensitive personal information and money. By posing as representatives from agencies such as the IRS, or other government agencies,&nbsp;these fraudsters use fear and deceit to exploit their victims.“Scammers often target seniors, attempting to steal personal information through phone calls, emails or text messages by pretending to be from the IRS or other agencies or businesses,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Preventing these types of scams requires assistance from many different places. By partnering with other federal agencies and others in the tax community, we can reach more seniors and other taxpayers to help protect them against these terrible scams.”This is part of a wider effort taking place this week leading up to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on Saturday, June 15. WEAAD, observed since June 15, 2006, aims to foster a better understanding of the neglect and abuse faced by millions of older adults, focusing attention on the contributing cultural, social, economic and demographic factors.The IRS also has been engaged in long-term efforts to protect against scams and other related schemes, including identity theft. This has been an ongoing focus of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>&nbsp;partnership between the IRS, state tax agencies and the nation’s tax professional community since 2015.Understanding the threatsThe IRS has identified a concerning trend where fraudulent actors are increasingly targeting unsuspecting individuals, particularly senior citizens, by masquerading as IRS agents. Victims are pressured into making immediate payments through unorthodox methods such as gift cards or wire transfers under the pretense of resolving fictitious tax liabilities or securing false refunds.These scammers deploy advanced techniques to fabricate a veneer of credibility, including the manipulation of caller IDs to appear legitimate. Here are just a few examples of their schemes:<ul>
 <li>Impersonation of known entities: Fraudsters often pose as representatives from government agencies — including the IRS, Social Security Administration and Medicare — others in the tax community or familiar businesses and charities. By spoofing caller IDs, scammers can deceive victims into believing they are receiving legitimate communications.</li><li>Claims of problems or prizes: Scammers frequently fabricate urgent scenarios, such as outstanding debts or promises of significant prize winnings. Victims may be falsely informed that they owe the IRS money, are owed a tax refund, need to verify accounts or must pay fees to claim non-existent lottery winnings.</li><li>Pressure for immediate action: These deceitful actors create a sense of urgency, demanding that victims take immediate action without allowing time for reflection. Common tactics include threats of arrest, deportation, license suspension or computer viruses to coerce quick compliance.</li><li>Specified payment methods: To complicate traceability, scammers insist on unconventional payment methods, including cryptocurrency, wire transfers, payment apps or gift cards, and often require victims to provide sensitive information like gift card numbers.</li>
 </ul>Scam precautions and reportingIf an individual receives an unexpected call from someone alleging to be from the IRS, but they have not been notified by mail about any issues with their IRS account, they should hang up immediately. The call is likely from a scammer.Do not return the call using the number provided by the caller or the one displayed on their caller ID. If taxpayers are uncertain about the legitimacy of IRS communications, they can contact IRS customer service for verification at&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-829-1040">800-829-1040</a>, or for the hearing impaired, TTY/TDD&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-829-4059">800-829-4059</a>.To view details about an individual’s tax account, they can set up or check their IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-individual-online-account">individual online account</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.Electronic scams are also on the rise, with scammers sending malicious emails and texts posing as IRS representatives to steal personal information. The IRS reminds taxpayers that it does not&nbsp;initiate&nbsp;contact via email, text, or social media regarding tax bills or refunds.Report the call or electronic scam by visiting the Hotline page of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and using an&nbsp;IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form&nbsp;or by calling&nbsp;<a href="tel:800-366-4484">800-366-4484</a>. Forms to report different types of fraud are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/reportcrime-misconduct">Hotline page of Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration website</a>. Taxpayers can click the appropriate option under "IRS Scams and Fraud" and follow the instructions.Key points to remember:Individuals should understand how and when the IRS contacts taxpayers to help them verify whether any communication they receive is genuinely from an IRS employee.Most IRS communications are initiated through regular mail delivered by the United States Postal Service. However, in certain situations, the IRS may make phone calls or visit homes or businesses. These situations include having an overdue tax bill, an unfiled tax return or missing employment tax deposit.Additionally, an IRS employee might review assets or inspect a business as part of a collection investigation, audit or ongoing criminal investigation.Remember the following:<ul>
 <li>The IRS will&nbsp;never&nbsp;demand immediate payment via prepaid debit cards, gift cards or wire transfers. Typically, if taxes are owed, the IRS will send a bill by mail first.</li><li>The IRS will&nbsp;never&nbsp;threaten to involve local police or other law enforcement agencies.</li><li>The IRS will&nbsp;never&nbsp;demand payment without allowing opportunities to dispute or appeal the amount owed.</li><li>The IRS will&nbsp;never&nbsp;request credit, debit or gift card numbers over the phone.</li>
 </ul>Remaining vigilant and informed about these scams can help protect taxpayers from financial loss and identity theft. The IRS and partnering federal agencies urge everyone to be cautious, especially when dealing with unsolicited communications concerning taxes.In March 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice introduced the National Elder Fraud Hotline to address fraud targeting elderly Americans and support affected individuals. If an individual has fallen victim to elder fraud, they can contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).The hotline operates Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, and services are available in English, Spanish, and other languages.More information<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scamsconsumer-alerts">Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/report-phishing">Report Phishing and Online Scams</a></li><li><a href="https://outlook.office.com/local/path/file:///C:/Users/1twsb/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/1F08LAHN/Dirty%20Dozen%20lists%20a%20variety%20of%20common%20scams%20that%20taxpayers%20may%20encounter%20anytim">The IRS Dirty Dozen: Annual list of scams affecting taxpayers</a></li><li><a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-government-impersonation-scam#IRS">Federal Trade Commission- How to avoid a government impersonation scam</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit partnership</a></li>
 </ul>

IRS warns against scams targeting Kansas seniors

I received a phone call from a local farmer in Ellis County on Wednesday, June 12th. He asked if I could come look at his and some other farmers fields. They were seeing sorghum plants with some reddish/purple leaves and some leaves having a whitish coloring or light streaks on the upper leaf surface.

Accompanied by J.P. Michaud, K-State Entomologist at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays, we went and looked at the fields. Upon close inspection we found thrips.

Our wheat hosts many different insects and once it matures and dries down, those insects start looking for another home. So, it is probably not uncommon for our grain sorghum to have some thrips each year. But this year looks to be an anomaly with more thrips feeding on the sorghum than usual.

Thrips are less than 2 millimeters long (.079”) and vary in color from yellow to brown, gray or black. The ones we observed were dark. These tiny, barely visible, splinter-like insects rasp leaf surfaces with their sharp mouthparts and then feed on the juices released.

We had to peel back the leaves on the plant to find the thrips. The good news is that they should not cause any yield loss and therefore spraying an insecticide is not recommended. As a matter of fact, if your grain sorghum had an insecticide seed treatment applied to it and most if not, all do, it should give your young plants enough protection from the thrips for at least 3 weeks after planting. Plus, the feeding they do is more cosmetic than anything, and should not lead to any yield loss.

Now for chinch bugs, I just received word today from a farmer in Barton County that an agronomist there said he has never seen chinch bug pressure that bad. Farmers will need to be scouting grain sorghum and sorghum/sudan hay fields close to harvested wheat fields for chinch bugs. They will move out of mature wheat and high numbers feeding on young sorghum plants can kill them. Damage begins along the field edge bordering the wheat, but can progress into the field as rows of plants die and the bugs move to new plants. Eventually, plants will get big enough to withstand the feeding pressure, but chinch bug migrations may last up to 2 weeks.

If you have any questions, please give me a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430 or email me at scampbel@ksu.edu J.P. Michaud, Entomologist at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays can be reached at 785-625-3425 or email jpmi@ksu.edu

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>I received a phone call from a local farmer in Ellis County on Wednesday, June 12th. He asked if I could come look at his and some other farmers fields. They were seeing sorghum plants with some reddish/purple leaves and some leaves having a whitish coloring or light streaks on the upper leaf surface.Accompanied by J.P. Michaud, K-State Entomologist at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays, we went and looked at the fields. Upon close inspection we found thrips.Our wheat hosts many different insects and once it matures and dries down, those insects start looking for another home. So, it is probably not uncommon for our grain sorghum to have some thrips each year. But this year looks to be an anomaly with more thrips feeding on the sorghum than usual.Thrips are less than 2 millimeters long (.079”) and vary in color from yellow to brown, gray or black. The ones we observed were dark. These tiny, barely visible, splinter-like insects rasp leaf surfaces with their sharp mouthparts and then feed on the juices released.We had to peel back the leaves on the plant to find the thrips. The good news is that they should not cause any yield loss and therefore spraying an insecticide is not recommended. As a matter of fact, if your grain sorghum had an insecticide seed treatment applied to it and most if not, all do, it should give your young plants enough protection from the thrips for at least 3 weeks after planting. Plus, the feeding they do is more cosmetic than anything, and should not lead to any yield loss.Now for chinch bugs, I just received word today from a farmer in Barton County that an agronomist there said he has never seen chinch bug pressure that bad. Farmers will need to be scouting grain sorghum and sorghum/sudan hay fields close to harvested wheat fields for chinch bugs. They will move out of mature wheat and high numbers feeding on young sorghum plants can kill them. Damage begins along the field edge bordering the wheat, but can progress into the field as rows of plants die and the bugs move to new plants. Eventually, plants will get big enough to withstand the feeding pressure, but chinch bug migrations may last up to 2 weeks.If you have any questions, please give me a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430 or email me at scampbel@ksu.edu J.P. Michaud, Entomologist at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays can be reached at 785-625-3425 or email jpmi@ksu.eduStacy 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: Thrips in grain sorghum

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Mike Hesher and Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Brooke Haulmark that aired June 13, 2024.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Mike Hesher and Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Brooke Haulmark that aired June 13, 2024.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Haulmark" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=dg2a8-163d81f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Central KS Community Corrections Director Haulmark

Burdett Fire Department, sponsored by the American Legion, is having a BBQ and raffle and Saturday, June 15, from 5-7 p.m. at the Burdett American Legion,  206 Elm, Burdett, KS. 

 Tickets are available at BFD BBQ, Prairie Welding &amp; Fabrication, Fusion Bank, SJN Bank in Burdett and BFD Chief Keenan Rasmussen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718375354381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Burdett Fire Department, sponsored by the American Legion, is having a BBQ and raffle and Saturday, June 15, from 5-7 p.m. at the Burdett American Legion, 206 Elm, Burdett, KS. Tickets are available at BFD BBQ, Prairie Welding &amp; Fabrication, Fusion Bank, SJN Bank in Burdett and BFD Chief Keenan Rasmussen.

Burdett Fire Dept. BBQ & raffle is Saturday

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting ceremony for KanEquip, Inc. on May 30, commemorating their 5th anniversary in the Great Bend community. This milestone marks five successful years since KanEquip acquired Straub International in 2019.

Scott Dewerff, Store Manager of KanEquip's Great Bend location, expressed his gratitude and excitement for the celebration, highlighting the company's growth and strong community ties over the past five years.

"Since joining the Great Bend community in 2019, KanEquip has been committed to providing quality products and exceptional service to our customers. We are grateful for the support we have received and look forward to many more successful years ahead," said Dewerff.

KanEquip has not only contributed to the agribusiness community but has also played a role in supporting the Chamber's Annual Kids Ag Day. This September marks the 30th anniversary of Kids Ag Day, an event dedicated to agricultural education for youth. Scott Dewerff serves as this year's Committee Chairperson, ensuring the event's continued success and impact on the community.

Founded in 1967, KanEquip has established itself as a partner in the Midwest, providing a wide range of agricultural, construction, lawn maintenance and utility vehicle equipment. With 14 locations across Kansas and Nebraska, the company features brands such as New Holland Ag and Construction, Case IH, AGCO, Bobcat, JCB, Kinze, Grasshopper, and more.&nbsp;

For more information about KanEquip, Inc., visit www.kanequip.com, or call 620-792-5256.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718302042052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting ceremony for KanEquip, Inc. on May 30, commemorating their 5th anniversary in the Great Bend community. This milestone marks five successful years since KanEquip acquired Straub International in 2019.Scott Dewerff, Store Manager of KanEquip's Great Bend location, expressed his gratitude and excitement for the celebration, highlighting the company's growth and strong community ties over the past five years."Since joining the Great Bend community in 2019, KanEquip has been committed to providing quality products and exceptional service to our customers. We are grateful for the support we have received and look forward to many more successful years ahead," said Dewerff.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718302071507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KanEquip has not only contributed to the agribusiness community but has also played a role in supporting the Chamber's Annual Kids Ag Day. This September marks the 30th anniversary of Kids Ag Day, an event dedicated to agricultural education for youth. Scott Dewerff serves as this year's Committee Chairperson, ensuring the event's continued success and impact on the community.Founded in 1967, KanEquip has established itself as a partner in the Midwest, providing a wide range of agricultural, construction, lawn maintenance and utility vehicle equipment. With 14 locations across Kansas and Nebraska, the company features brands such as New Holland Ag and Construction, Case IH, AGCO, Bobcat, JCB, Kinze, Grasshopper, and more.&nbsp;For more information about KanEquip, Inc., visit www.kanequip.com, or call 620-792-5256.

KanEquip celebrates 5 years in Great Bend

This is day 3 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.

Kansas wheat farmers are relieved to have a crop to harvest this year, remaining optimistic and pleasantly surprised with the good-yielding, good-quality crop, even as harvest progresses into areas where fields were impacted by an inconsistent mix of&nbsp;freeze damage, stripe rust pressure, rain and hail.&nbsp;

Harvest delivery is in full swing at Ardent Mills, which unloaded 150 trucks at its facility in Newton on Tuesday, June 11. Harvest is roughly 10 percent complete and Pam Bowles, assistant administrative manager, expects another week of peak harvest.&nbsp;

Farmers delivering wheat to the mill are reporting yields ranging from 40 bushels per acre up to 70 bushels per acre. At the mill, test weights are steady around 62 pounds per bushel and the protein average is 11.3 percent.&nbsp;

“Everyone seems to be in a good mood,” Bowles said. “We are planning for an above-average year this year.”&nbsp;

Troy Smith, who farms near Walton in Harvey County, is also pleasantly surprised with this year’s harvest, having started cutting his KS Zenda earlier this week — on track with normal pace. He attributes using cow manure as his primary fertilizer and heavy moisture over Thanksgiving weekend as keys to this year’s success.

“What made this year so good was the snow that came during the Iowa State/K-State football game, honestly!” he said.&nbsp;

His average yield is 67 bushels per acre with average test weight of 60.8 pounds per bushel and average protein at 13.13 percent.&nbsp;

Also in Harvey County, James Mosiman described this year’s harvest as a “night and day difference” compared to last year, speaking volumes about what good weather, sound farming practices and resilient varieties can produce when everything comes together.&nbsp;

The Mosiman family started harvesting on Thursday, June 6, about a week ahead of schedule. Beyond a delay from an inch of rain over last weekend, they have not encountered many challenges this year. He reported seeing small amounts of stripe rust, a common obstacle for many farmers this year.&nbsp;

Mosiman happily mentioned fields are yielding a promising 60 bushels per acre. Reflecting on the culmination of months of hard work, he summed this year’s harvest up by saying, “It’s just nice to cut a crop.”&nbsp;

In neighboring Reno County, Brandon Frederick is helping his grandfather VJ Blubaugh harvest wheat near Burrton. Storms the week before Memorial Day weekend blew over pivots on their irrigated wheat. On Thursday, June 13, they were cutting in a pocket where one side of the road got an inch of rain, but the other side had nothing more than sprinkle.&nbsp;

The operation grazes a lot of their wheat, which is in crop rotation with sudan. This year, they put out 105 head on the ground for 120 days, ending the grazing season with an average daily gain of 3.0 pounds.&nbsp;

Both grandfather and grandson are thrilled to harvest a crop this year, after having to swath the entirety of their wheat crop last year. Fields planted to WestBred varieties are yielding between 40 and 70 bushels per acre, with test weights of 61-62 pounds per bushel and proteins ranging from 12 to 12.3 percent.&nbsp;

“As much as I love having food for my cows, I love seeing a cash crop come up and go all the way to harvest,” Frederick said.&nbsp;

The harvest crew was hustling to repair combines and keep cutting ahead of forecasted thunderstorms in Barton County, according to Dean Stoskopf, who farms near Hoisington. His first two fields — both planted to PlainsGold Whistler — had yields of 45 and 50 bushels per acre. Moisture is between 11.5 and 14.5 percent with test weights ranging from 59.5 to 61.5 pounds per bushel and protein hitting 11.5 to 14 percent.&nbsp;

Yields are better than expected, but Stoskopf noted he is cutting some of his best fields first and expects yields to go down as harvest progresses. Within fields, he remarked that prolonged drought conditions and freeze damage caused a lot of inconsistency with stands, noting he feels like he’s cutting 60-bushel wheat or five-bushel wheat with nothing in between. Still, he feels optimistic after consecutive years of near-total crop failures and expects to be done cutting within two weeks — hopefully just in time to watch the grandkids show at the county fair the last week of June.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have cut more wheat in the last day and a half than we did all last year,” Stoskopf said. “So far we’ve been pleasantly surprised with yields, but fields are highly variable.”&nbsp;

Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, June 17.&nbsp;

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=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO07kjlGoGgrPkY9E_vsEQSZA2WedMqeiROjRce43uOSYxe6ctiJJR056TbUNtKxFEXGYpqj_4lhojwKefXWXtCkFwo09EWy8oJ6d3GfD8Z-y0G_Dhz0FKVIrxNdRL-20_VE3wGKN2LhW-hF0qVm12sGdpPn8drZNoJZYwhZlCMF9HssctFDzDeQ=&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO8eKkJcDtXbeWV7K70IhlrBhrm00qFMPxhvgyZRIspN6dhgIOm2PytEEChVt9dYY_Zlb5DlctXkOoRJIV5k9Xn-F6LA5yUdNksij_u3qJtL6aQh358pEVf4=&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO1F4z-H_3Jxy7sfSBhqxngqMkC7vjqtNc8HBZnWV5rSSB9Rpq4lRttT1QjaHzpLBja9fO3kVeCXjLnsnp7UGe0w-wgkxoTpcm5nhhUujXD5T&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO_8-7QojyfWbTx1ntYZJf9yw5i9XZ6e37M0Rgif2vxFGJLISkHcP8JDhxn4yGeIVCpMqyJO1mqb2l468VqS7EcLy3UmNbH949q1D-MmCD0UJ&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718319188642.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 3 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.Kansas wheat farmers are relieved to have a crop to harvest this year, remaining optimistic and pleasantly surprised with the good-yielding, good-quality crop, even as harvest progresses into areas where fields were impacted by an inconsistent mix of&nbsp;freeze damage, stripe rust pressure, rain and hail.&nbsp;Harvest delivery is in full swing at Ardent Mills, which unloaded 150 trucks at its facility in Newton on Tuesday, June 11. Harvest is roughly 10 percent complete and Pam Bowles, assistant administrative manager, expects another week of peak harvest.&nbsp;Farmers delivering wheat to the mill are reporting yields ranging from 40 bushels per acre up to 70 bushels per acre. At the mill, test weights are steady around 62 pounds per bushel and the protein average is 11.3 percent.&nbsp;“Everyone seems to be in a good mood,” Bowles said. “We are planning for an above-average year this year.”&nbsp;Troy Smith, who farms near Walton in Harvey County, is also pleasantly surprised with this year’s harvest, having started cutting his KS Zenda earlier this week — on track with normal pace. He attributes using cow manure as his primary fertilizer and heavy moisture over Thanksgiving weekend as keys to this year’s success.“What made this year so good was the snow that came during the Iowa State/K-State football game, honestly!” he said.&nbsp;His average yield is 67 bushels per acre with average test weight of 60.8 pounds per bushel and average protein at 13.13 percent.&nbsp;Also in Harvey County, James Mosiman described this year’s harvest as a “night and day difference” compared to last year, speaking volumes about what good weather, sound farming practices and resilient varieties can produce when everything comes together.&nbsp;The Mosiman family started harvesting on Thursday, June 6, about a week ahead of schedule. Beyond a delay from an inch of rain over last weekend, they have not encountered many challenges this year. He reported seeing small amounts of stripe rust, a common obstacle for many farmers this year.&nbsp;Mosiman happily mentioned fields are yielding a promising 60 bushels per acre. Reflecting on the culmination of months of hard work, he summed this year’s harvest up by saying, “It’s just nice to cut a crop.”&nbsp;In neighboring Reno County, Brandon Frederick is helping his grandfather VJ Blubaugh harvest wheat near Burrton. Storms the week before Memorial Day weekend blew over pivots on their irrigated wheat. On Thursday, June 13, they were cutting in a pocket where one side of the road got an inch of rain, but the other side had nothing more than sprinkle.&nbsp;The operation grazes a lot of their wheat, which is in crop rotation with sudan. This year, they put out 105 head on the ground for 120 days, ending the grazing season with an average daily gain of 3.0 pounds.&nbsp;Both grandfather and grandson are thrilled to harvest a crop this year, after having to swath the entirety of their wheat crop last year. Fields planted to WestBred varieties are yielding between 40 and 70 bushels per acre, with test weights of 61-62 pounds per bushel and proteins ranging from 12 to 12.3 percent.&nbsp;“As much as I love having food for my cows, I love seeing a cash crop come up and go all the way to harvest,” Frederick said.&nbsp;The harvest crew was hustling to repair combines and keep cutting ahead of forecasted thunderstorms in Barton County, according to Dean Stoskopf, who farms near Hoisington. His first two fields — both planted to PlainsGold Whistler — had yields of 45 and 50 bushels per acre. Moisture is between 11.5 and 14.5 percent with test weights ranging from 59.5 to 61.5 pounds per bushel and protein hitting 11.5 to 14 percent.&nbsp;Yields are better than expected, but Stoskopf noted he is cutting some of his best fields first and expects yields to go down as harvest progresses. Within fields, he remarked that prolonged drought conditions and freeze damage caused a lot of inconsistency with stands, noting he feels like he’s cutting 60-bushel wheat or five-bushel wheat with nothing in between. Still, he feels optimistic after consecutive years of near-total crop failures and expects to be done cutting within two weeks — hopefully just in time to watch the grandkids show at the county fair the last week of June.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have cut more wheat in the last day and a half than we did all last year,” Stoskopf said. “So far we’ve been pleasantly surprised with yields, but fields are highly variable.”&nbsp;Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, June 17.&nbsp;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=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO07kjlGoGgrPkY9E_vsEQSZA2WedMqeiROjRce43uOSYxe6ctiJJR056TbUNtKxFEXGYpqj_4lhojwKefXWXtCkFwo09EWy8oJ6d3GfD8Z-y0G_Dhz0FKVIrxNdRL-20_VE3wGKN2LhW-hF0qVm12sGdpPn8drZNoJZYwhZlCMF9HssctFDzDeQ=&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO8eKkJcDtXbeWV7K70IhlrBhrm00qFMPxhvgyZRIspN6dhgIOm2PytEEChVt9dYY_Zlb5DlctXkOoRJIV5k9Xn-F6LA5yUdNksij_u3qJtL6aQh358pEVf4=&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO1F4z-H_3Jxy7sfSBhqxngqMkC7vjqtNc8HBZnWV5rSSB9Rpq4lRttT1QjaHzpLBja9fO3kVeCXjLnsnp7UGe0w-wgkxoTpcm5nhhUujXD5T&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO_8-7QojyfWbTx1ntYZJf9yw5i9XZ6e37M0Rgif2vxFGJLISkHcP8JDhxn4yGeIVCpMqyJO1mqb2l468VqS7EcLy3UmNbH949q1D-MmCD0UJ&amp;c=jkuTRfIY4IlFKTV9dx2PdZavVS8hXv3mihcPF5z0ALRzZPZvoJ41DA==&amp;ch=ektNctV9TmyM3glJe90srb7efDFx0Viez1fIxh_gAG_Lj8R2VoDmHA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Day 3, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Claflin Fire District No. 1 serves the city of Claflin and northeast Barton County. Following the close of the Barton County Commission meeting Tuesday morning, the fire district appeared before the body to transfer the remaining funds from 2023 to 2024. County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the issue to the commission.

"After looking at where they ended in fund balance, $45,000 for a transfer would put us in a good position to remain revenue-neutral for 2025," said Patzner. "There was some unanticipated revenue. If you remember, we amended the budget for that additional revenue. They ended up being quite a bit under budget in 2023."

Captain Chris Steiner, filling in for Chief Kyle Smith, said not so fast. The district usually transfers approximately $20,000 each year. The district received a grant in 2022, but those funds were not received until 2023, resulting in the unanticipated revenue. Tuesday's transfer brings the district's reserve balance to approximately $145,000, but the purchase of new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) is on the horizon.

"That 145,000 sounds really great right now," Steiner said. "Unfortunately, we have struck out four years in a row on our SCBA grant. We're trying to get new SCBAs. Our SCBAs are actually out of date as of last year."

The district continues to seek small grants to help offset those costs. The firefighters are raising money with a gun raffle in September. With the help of Cheyenne Bottoms Armory, Fire District No. 1 will give away a gun every day in September. Tickets are $50 each and only 1,000 tickets will be sold. Call (620) 587-3498 or email claflinfiredept@gmail.com for more information about the raffle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718200840627.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostClaflin Fire District No. 1 serves the city of Claflin and northeast Barton County. Following the close of the Barton County Commission meeting Tuesday morning, the fire district appeared before the body to transfer the remaining funds from 2023 to 2024. County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the issue to the commission."After looking at where they ended in fund balance, $45,000 for a transfer would put us in a good position to remain revenue-neutral for 2025," said Patzner. "There was some unanticipated revenue. If you remember, we amended the budget for that additional revenue. They ended up being quite a bit under budget in 2023."Captain Chris Steiner, filling in for Chief Kyle Smith, said not so fast. The district usually transfers approximately $20,000 each year. The district received a grant in 2022, but those funds were not received until 2023, resulting in the unanticipated revenue. Tuesday's transfer brings the district's reserve balance to approximately $145,000, but the purchase of new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) is on the horizon."That 145,000 sounds really great right now," Steiner said. "Unfortunately, we have struck out four years in a row on our SCBA grant. We're trying to get new SCBAs. Our SCBAs are actually out of date as of last year."The district continues to seek small grants to help offset those costs. The firefighters are raising money with a gun raffle in September. With the help of Cheyenne Bottoms Armory, Fire District No. 1 will give away a gun every day in September. Tickets are $50 each and only 1,000 tickets will be sold. Call (620) 587-3498 or email claflinfiredept@gmail.com for more information about the raffle.

Claflin Fire District using gun raffle to raise funds for new SCBAs

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/13)

At 11:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 200 block of
NE 30 Road.

At 12:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 601 N. US
281 Highway.

At 2:06 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 308 C
Street in Claflin.

At 4:40 p.m. a fire was reported at NW 220 Road &amp; Susank
Road in Hoisington.

At 8:52 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NW 150 Road in Hoisington.

At 9:43 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 90 Avenue &amp;
NE 230 Road.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/13)

At 3:04 a.m. Katherine Warner reported threats at 2615
Lakin.

At 4:11 a.m. Dakotah Green reported a possible prowler at
2615 Lakin.

At 5:20 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 300 Maple Street.

At 6:39 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 4th
&amp; Frey.

At 9:59 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2303 Main .

At 12:05 p.m. a vehicle driving slowly on the highway was
reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway.

At 2:56 p.m. a report had questions about her
daughter-in-law being on her property at 5703 Hemlock Dr.

At 3:09 p.m. a report of having questions in reference to a
neighbor dispute over barking dogs was made in the 1400 block of Wilson Street.

At 4:27 p.m. an accident was reported at 4209 10th
Street.

At 4:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 1508 Main.

At 7:52 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 2006 Main
Street.

At 8:59 p.m. Hannah Potter reported a possible structure
fire at 2006 Main.

At 10:12 p.m. Vernon Stephens reported a possible burglary
in progress at 2624 24th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/13)Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 200 block of
NE 30 Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 12:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 601 N. US
281 Highway.Child in Need of CareAt 2:06 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 308 C
Street in Claflin.FireAt 4:40 p.m. a fire was reported at NW 220 Road &amp; Susank
Road in Hoisington.Cattle OutAt 8:52 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NW 150 Road in Hoisington.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:43 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 90 Avenue &amp;
NE 230 Road.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/13)Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 3:04 a.m. Katherine Warner reported threats at 2615
Lakin.ProwlerAt 4:11 a.m. Dakotah Green reported a possible prowler at
2615 Lakin.Breathing ProblemsAt 5:20 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 300 Maple Street.Animal ComplaintAt 6:39 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 4th
&amp; Frey.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 9:59 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2303 Main .Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 12:05 p.m. a vehicle driving slowly on the highway was
reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway.Trespassing / CriminalAt 2:56 p.m. a report had questions about her
daughter-in-law being on her property at 5703 Hemlock Dr.Animal Complaint At 3:09 p.m. a report of having questions in reference to a
neighbor dispute over barking dogs was made in the 1400 block of Wilson Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:27 p.m. an accident was reported at 4209 10th
Street.At 4:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 1508 Main.Criminal DamageAt 7:52 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 2006 Main
Street.Structure FireAt 8:59 p.m. Hannah Potter reported a possible structure
fire at 2006 Main.Burglary / In ProgressAt 10:12 p.m. Vernon Stephens reported a possible burglary
in progress at 2624 24th Street.

Cop Shop (6/13)

6/13 BOOKED: Phillip Markum on Barton County District Court case for Non-Residential Burglary, bond set at $20,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Colton Farmer on Stafford County District Court case for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jonathan Whisnant on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $967.50 cash only.

RELEASED: Garrett Barnett on KDOC Warrant, after warrant withdrawn.

RELEASED: Jacob Larocque on KDOC arrest and detain warrant for Parole Violation, after warrant withdrawn.

RELEASED: Jonathan Whisnant on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $967.50 cash bond.

RELEASED: Sheyenne McNett on Barton County District Court case for Burglary and Interference with LEO, on $20,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Clayton Mattox on Stafford County District Court warrant for Rape, Domestic Aggravated Battery, Kidnapping, and Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, on $500,000 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/13 BOOKED: Phillip Markum on Barton County District Court case for Non-Residential Burglary, bond set at $20,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Colton Farmer on Stafford County District Court case for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Jonathan Whisnant on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $967.50 cash only.RELEASED: Garrett Barnett on KDOC Warrant, after warrant withdrawn.RELEASED: Jacob Larocque on KDOC arrest and detain warrant for Parole Violation, after warrant withdrawn.RELEASED: Jonathan Whisnant on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $967.50 cash bond.RELEASED: Sheyenne McNett on Barton County District Court case for Burglary and Interference with LEO, on $20,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Clayton Mattox on Stafford County District Court warrant for Rape, Domestic Aggravated Battery, Kidnapping, and Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, on $500,000 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/13)

Health Occupations Students of America, now HOSA-Future Health Professionals, is an international organization that empowers future healthcare workers through education, collaboration, and experience. Founded in 1976, the organization will be entering just its fourth year at Great Bend High School. Still, several GBHS students qualified to attend this year's international conference in Houston from June 26-29. Sponsor Joseph Bliven went before the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night to seek approval for the trip.

"It's a global group run by students and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education," he said. "It's just trying to help students become leaders in the world of health. It's all about exploration in health careers, building those skills, building a network, and everything you need to be successful in a health career."

HOSA Board President Jasmine Figueroa, an incoming junior at GBHS, and sophomore Jackson Trudeau won first place in community awareness at a state competition to qualify. Figueroa also placed third in extemporaneous writing. Sophomore Bella Long placed third in a biology test at state. Junior Eliana Teri worked with Cailyn and Cara Murphy to qualify in the medical innovation category with their device to help epilepsy patients: a wristband that contains medicine and a QR code that can be scanned to release that medicine when a patient is suffering a seizure.

"Everything is taken care of using our HOSA funds, so I'm not asking for money from you guys at all," Bliven told the board. "HOSA is an expensive group. It takes a lot to keep it going, so we rely heavily on donations from businesses - a lot of the medical places, veterinary places donate to the cause."

The board approved the trip. The keynote speaker at this year's conference is Dr. Rayne Rouce, a pediatric oncologist and physican scientist professor at Baylor College of Medicine. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718204705917.jpeg" alt="Members of HOSA at Great Bend High School spoke at the USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday night. Pictured, from left: Eliani Teri, Bella Long, Jasmine Figueroa, Jackson Trudeau, and Sponsor Joseph Bliven. Not pictured: Cailyn and Cara Murphy." />
 <figcaption>Members of HOSA at Great Bend High School spoke at the USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday night. Pictured, from left: Eliani Teri, Bella Long, Jasmine Figueroa, Jackson Trudeau, and Sponsor Joseph Bliven. Not pictured: Cailyn and Cara Murphy.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostHealth Occupations Students of America, now HOSA-Future Health Professionals, is an international organization that empowers future healthcare workers through education, collaboration, and experience. Founded in 1976, the organization will be entering just its fourth year at Great Bend High School. Still, several GBHS students qualified to attend this year's international conference in Houston from June 26-29. Sponsor Joseph Bliven went before the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night to seek approval for the trip."It's a global group run by students and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education," he said. "It's just trying to help students become leaders in the world of health. It's all about exploration in health careers, building those skills, building a network, and everything you need to be successful in a health career."HOSA Board President Jasmine Figueroa, an incoming junior at GBHS, and sophomore Jackson Trudeau won first place in community awareness at a state competition to qualify. Figueroa also placed third in extemporaneous writing. Sophomore Bella Long placed third in a biology test at state. Junior Eliana Teri worked with Cailyn and Cara Murphy to qualify in the medical innovation category with their device to help epilepsy patients: a wristband that contains medicine and a QR code that can be scanned to release that medicine when a patient is suffering a seizure."Everything is taken care of using our HOSA funds, so I'm not asking for money from you guys at all," Bliven told the board. "HOSA is an expensive group. It takes a lot to keep it going, so we rely heavily on donations from businesses - a lot of the medical places, veterinary places donate to the cause."The board approved the trip. The keynote speaker at this year's conference is Dr. Rayne Rouce, a pediatric oncologist and physican scientist professor at Baylor College of Medicine.

Great Bend school board approves HOSA international conference in Houston

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Since the beginning of the year, the Great Bend Fire Department has been
monitoring their increased call volume. As of early May, the department had
seen a 22% increase in incident calls. 

With the majority of the calls related
to medical or EMS incidents, Fire Chief Brent Smith said staff does work with
citizens to better help themselves going forward.


"We have a semi-paramedicine program working with Clara Barton Hospital," said Smith. "Clara Barton has nurses and social workers. We gather information when we go to calls if it's a repeat. Sometimes it might be somebody that just needs help, not necessarily our help, but just help. We gather that information then Clara Barton will go out and do a site visit."

The medical staff at Clara Barton Hospital can then assess if the resident
needs grab-handles around the house or other safety precautions.


Smith said city staff has assisted one citizen that used to call first
responders 10 times a week. Since introducing the citizen to church groups and Medicare/Medicaid, Smith and his staff have not received a call from the individual.


"We have a meeting with Clara Barton about once a month," said Smith. "They will generally give some follow-up. We generally take it as good news when we don't go there as much. Once we turn it over to them, if we don't go near as often, then we assume it's a win for the citizen and us."

In May, Smith noted many calls include elderly people falling and needing help
getting back to their feet.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663009455448.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostSince the beginning of the year, the Great Bend Fire Department has been
monitoring their increased call volume. As of early May, the department had
seen a 22% increase in incident calls. With the majority of the calls related
to medical or EMS incidents, Fire Chief Brent Smith said staff does work with
citizens to better help themselves going forward.
"We have a semi-paramedicine program working with Clara Barton Hospital," said Smith. "Clara Barton has nurses and social workers. We gather information when we go to calls if it's a repeat. Sometimes it might be somebody that just needs help, not necessarily our help, but just help. We gather that information then Clara Barton will go out and do a site visit."The medical staff at Clara Barton Hospital can then assess if the resident
needs grab-handles around the house or other safety precautions.
Smith said city staff has assisted one citizen that used to call first
responders 10 times a week. Since introducing the citizen to church groups and Medicare/Medicaid, Smith and his staff have not received a call from the individual.
"We have a meeting with Clara Barton about once a month," said Smith. "They will generally give some follow-up. We generally take it as good news when we don't go there as much. Once we turn it over to them, if we don't go near as often, then we assume it's a win for the citizen and us."In May, Smith noted many calls include elderly people falling and needing help
getting back to their feet.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Fire & EMS working to lower call load

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Northeast wind 8 to 14 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday A slight chance of thunderstorms before 7 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 96. Windy.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy.

Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Breezy.

Juneteenth A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

Wednesday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Northeast wind 8 to 14 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Saturday A slight chance of thunderstorms before 7 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.Monday Sunny, with a high near 96. Windy.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy.Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Breezy.Juneteenth A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 84.Wednesday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;