Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northeast 19 to 29 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northeast wind 8 to 13 mph.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Thursday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Windy.

Friday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Breezy.

Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northeast 19 to 29 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northeast wind 8 to 13 mph.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Thursday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Windy.Friday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Breezy.Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy.Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.Monday Sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.zTGmhP8EQK6PID_PNq3M09hxkjp6zjznA-RAz31-bSY/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pxSnirKLyOTIkmcgMPSdg1Wsxd0BynmRbiifwvSxk8M/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.y-bSpDBeYLR37cfzQ7tWMQwiZImTc5B9czo1DhCghac/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.rRf6nzlRla5hshlwpzQ0haZaJ-VFARhIC0m632wiIdw/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">informative video</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.zTGmhP8EQK6PID_PNq3M09hxkjp6zjznA-RAz31-bSY/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active AdvisoriesWarning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County (Added on April 19)</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pxSnirKLyOTIkmcgMPSdg1Wsxd0BynmRbiifwvSxk8M/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.y-bSpDBeYLR37cfzQ7tWMQwiZImTc5B9czo1DhCghac/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.rRf6nzlRla5hshlwpzQ0haZaJ-VFARhIC0m632wiIdw/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">informative video</a>.

Public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae

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/3LT2MF6. 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 April 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the April 2, 2024, the April 9, 2024, and the April 16, 2024, Regular Meetings. &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. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of April 9, 2024, and ending April 23, 2024.

III. 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.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2024-14: A Resolution Transferring and Carrying Over 2023 Unexpended Funds to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. After accounting of all 2023 transactions, monies are suggested for&nbsp;transfer to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. UPDATE: 2024 Authorized Positions Listing: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. It is suggested that the Commission approve the addition of an office assistant position as a part-time employee under Central Kansas Community Corrections. The person in this position will work with the CKCC Director, office assistant and other personnel in performing vital tasks for departmental operations.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will present details. Barton County has been involved with the development of a settlement agreement with two former employees. Those agreements will be considered at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. 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.

V. 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; &nbsp;-County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials are invited to attend a quarterly meeting with the Gove, Graham, Hodgeman, Lane, Rush and Trego County Commissioners. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the Ness County Courthouse, 202 W Sycamore, Ness City, 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 Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Dena Popp, 911 Director, is scheduled for April 25, 2024.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &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, April 30, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693230488223.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/3LT2MF6. 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 April 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the April 2, 2024, the April 9, 2024, and the April 16, 2024, Regular Meetings. &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. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of April 9, 2024, and ending April 23, 2024.III. 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.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2024-14: A Resolution Transferring and Carrying Over 2023 Unexpended Funds to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. After accounting of all 2023 transactions, monies are suggested for&nbsp;transfer to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. UPDATE: 2024 Authorized Positions Listing: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. It is suggested that the Commission approve the addition of an office assistant position as a part-time employee under Central Kansas Community Corrections. The person in this position will work with the CKCC Director, office assistant and other personnel in performing vital tasks for departmental operations.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will present details. Barton County has been involved with the development of a settlement agreement with two former employees. Those agreements will be considered at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;E. 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.V. 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; &nbsp;-County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials are invited to attend a quarterly meeting with the Gove, Graham, Hodgeman, Lane, Rush and Trego County Commissioners. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the Ness County Courthouse, 202 W Sycamore, Ness City, 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 Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Dena Popp, 911 Director, is scheduled for April 25, 2024.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &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, April 30, 2024.VII. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (4/23)

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

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson rose half a dollar on Friday to $73.50 per barrel. That's down half a dollar from the first of the month, but more than ten dollars a barrel higher than at the first of the year, and four dollars higher than a year ago. Futures prices in New York dropped to their lowest level since March last week, but were up slightly on Monday, trading over $83 a barrel by midday. London Brent was fetching $87 a barrel by lunchtime Monday.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up five oil rigs but down three gas rigs. The count in Texas was up two, Oklahoma was up one, and New Mexico was down one. The weekly total is down 136 rigs from a year ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is up two rigs east of Wichita at 14 rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on site. The count in Western Kansas is unchanged at 17 active drilling rigs. The tally is up seven percent from a month ago, but down nine percent from last year at this time.

Operators across Kansas completed 22 wells last week, with two in Barton County out of 15 in Western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 354 completions so far this year across the state, compared to 546 a year ago at this time.

Regulators in Kansas approved 16 new drilling locations. Ten of those are west of Wichita including new permits in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 256 new drilling locations statewide so far this year, compared to 370 a year ago.

The government reported the fourth increase in domestic crude inventories in four weeks.&nbsp; A weekly report from the Energy Information Administration shows commercial inventories of 460 million barrels as of April 12th. Stockpiles remain about one percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Inventories in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve rose an additional 600,000 barrels, according to the EIA report. Commercial supplies are up nearly 15 million barrels since March 15.Domestic crude production averaged 13,131,000 barrels per day last week, down 5,000 barrels per day from the week before, but up 800,000 barrels per day from a year ago. Four-week average production is down about 2,000 barrels per day for the week, but is more than a million barrels a day higher than a year ago.

The Biden Administration has raised royalty rates for oil-and-gas drilling on public lands for the first time in a century. The Interior Department raised royalty rates for oil drilling by more than one third, to 16.67%, in accordance with the sweeping 2022 climate law approved by Congress. The new rule also raises the minimum bond that drillers must pay to $150,000 from $10,000.

Oil patch drilling and business activity has contracted for the fifth straight quarter, and could drop more this year according to respondents to a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Kansas is not alone in lackluster results of late: Oklahoma, Colorado and northern New Mexico showed declines in oil and gas activity. The survey included responses from 33 firms operating in the Midwest, the Rockies and parts of New Mexico. More than 75% of respondents agreed that consolidation will lead to more cautious production growth.

China, the world’s largest buyer of foreign crude, imported 11.3 million barrels per day last year. According to customs data, that’s 10% more than the year before. A new government report notes refiners in China imported record volumes to support rising petrochemical and transportation-fuel needs. Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq were China’s main sources. Russia topped the list last year after offering steep discounts prompted by international sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Apr. 22 John P. TretbarKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson rose half a dollar on Friday to $73.50 per barrel. That's down half a dollar from the first of the month, but more than ten dollars a barrel higher than at the first of the year, and four dollars higher than a year ago. Futures prices in New York dropped to their lowest level since March last week, but were up slightly on Monday, trading over $83 a barrel by midday. London Brent was fetching $87 a barrel by lunchtime Monday.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up five oil rigs but down three gas rigs. The count in Texas was up two, Oklahoma was up one, and New Mexico was down one. The weekly total is down 136 rigs from a year ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is up two rigs east of Wichita at 14 rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on site. The count in Western Kansas is unchanged at 17 active drilling rigs. The tally is up seven percent from a month ago, but down nine percent from last year at this time.Operators across Kansas completed 22 wells last week, with two in Barton County out of 15 in Western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 354 completions so far this year across the state, compared to 546 a year ago at this time.Regulators in Kansas approved 16 new drilling locations. Ten of those are west of Wichita including new permits in Russell and Stafford counties. That's 256 new drilling locations statewide so far this year, compared to 370 a year ago.The government reported the fourth increase in domestic crude inventories in four weeks.&nbsp; A weekly report from the Energy Information Administration shows commercial inventories of 460 million barrels as of April 12th. Stockpiles remain about one percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Inventories in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve rose an additional 600,000 barrels, according to the EIA report. Commercial supplies are up nearly 15 million barrels since March 15.Domestic crude production averaged 13,131,000 barrels per day last week, down 5,000 barrels per day from the week before, but up 800,000 barrels per day from a year ago. Four-week average production is down about 2,000 barrels per day for the week, but is more than a million barrels a day higher than a year ago.The Biden Administration has raised royalty rates for oil-and-gas drilling on public lands for the first time in a century. The Interior Department raised royalty rates for oil drilling by more than one third, to 16.67%, in accordance with the sweeping 2022 climate law approved by Congress. The new rule also raises the minimum bond that drillers must pay to $150,000 from $10,000.Oil patch drilling and business activity has contracted for the fifth straight quarter, and could drop more this year according to respondents to a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Kansas is not alone in lackluster results of late: Oklahoma, Colorado and northern New Mexico showed declines in oil and gas activity. The survey included responses from 33 firms operating in the Midwest, the Rockies and parts of New Mexico. More than 75% of respondents agreed that consolidation will lead to more cautious production growth.China, the world’s largest buyer of foreign crude, imported 11.3 million barrels per day last year. According to customs data, that’s 10% more than the year before. A new government report notes refiners in China imported record volumes to support rising petrochemical and transportation-fuel needs. Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq were China’s main sources. Russia topped the list last year after offering steep discounts prompted by international sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Royalty rates raised for drilling on public lands

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 18, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of The Beauty Bar, located at 1409 Main Street in Great Bend. Chamber ambassadors and salon clients gathered to show their support for this locally owned business, owned by Lexie Schneider.

Schneider, who graduated from the Hays Academy of Hair Design in 2007, turned her lifelong dream into reality when she opened The Beauty Bar Salon in April 2014 in a small commercial property she rented for nine years. During the course of the business's tenure, Lexie expanded by adding the Perfectly Paisley Boutique to the Beauty Bar Salon in partnership with Charise Oelger.

As her business expanded, she took a significant step forward by purchasing a downtown building in 2022. This building underwent a complete renovation, transforming it into the Main Street location that The Beauty Bar now calls home. This renovation not only enhanced the salon's environment but also played a positive role in downtown preservation efforts. Through these efforts, Schneider and her husband have positioned the salon for continued growth as they invest in both the business and the community of Great Bend. This initiative also featured a notably impressive facelift for the building's facade thanks to a program through Barton County.

In August 2023, The Beauty Bar Salon and Perfectly Paisley Boutique celebrated their move to their current Main Street location. Lexie’s team includes two cosmetologists Janet Galan-Holguin and Amy Schwager, and Maria Villanueva, ARNP, each adding their own flair and dedication to the salon's vibrant atmosphere.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713809254906.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSGreat Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 18, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of The Beauty Bar, located at 1409 Main Street in Great Bend. Chamber ambassadors and salon clients gathered to show their support for this locally owned business, owned by Lexie Schneider.Schneider, who graduated from the Hays Academy of Hair Design in 2007, turned her lifelong dream into reality when she opened The Beauty Bar Salon in April 2014 in a small commercial property she rented for nine years. During the course of the business's tenure, Lexie expanded by adding the Perfectly Paisley Boutique to the Beauty Bar Salon in partnership with Charise Oelger.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713809398929.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As her business expanded, she took a significant step forward by purchasing a downtown building in 2022. This building underwent a complete renovation, transforming it into the Main Street location that The Beauty Bar now calls home. This renovation not only enhanced the salon's environment but also played a positive role in downtown preservation efforts. Through these efforts, Schneider and her husband have positioned the salon for continued growth as they invest in both the business and the community of Great Bend. This initiative also featured a notably impressive facelift for the building's facade thanks to a program through Barton County.In August 2023, The Beauty Bar Salon and Perfectly Paisley Boutique celebrated their move to their current Main Street location. Lexie’s team includes two cosmetologists Janet Galan-Holguin and Amy Schwager, and Maria Villanueva, ARNP, each adding their own flair and dedication to the salon's vibrant atmosphere.

The Beauty Bar's 10th anniversary celebration and downtown revival

From Great Bend High School forensics coach Kim Heath...

Last weekend, the Great Bend Forensics team spent two days competing at the West Kansas District national qualifying tournament. In the end, the Panthers were named Speech Sweepstakes champions and three Panthers qualified for the national tournament in two separate events. Milena Carbajal and Darcy Feist won the Duo Interpretation event, and Chrisangel Adame qualified for the Senate in Congressional Debate. A total of fourteen Great Bend students competed at the tournament.

The National Speech and Debate Tournament is being held in Des Moines, Iowa, later this year between June 16 and June 21. The tournament hosts thousands of students per year and allows them to compete in their respective events over the course of multiple days. After several elimination rounds, the top six in each category will perform on the main stage in front of the rest of the competitors and be ranked first through sixth.

Chrisangel Adame, who qualified in Congressional Debate in the Senate, is going to nationals for the first time. Representing West KS in the National Student Senate is a unique kind of debate event. As Adame explained, “It is a mock congress in which you consider legislation and argue for and against different policy proposals using parliamentary procedure.”

Milena Carbajal and Darcy Feist will be performing a Duo Interpretation at nationals cut from the memoir, Girl Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen. Their piece explores the trauma of mental illness and hospitalization during the early 1970s. Forensics coach, Kim Heath, explains that “the story the girls share is grim, but it highlights the strength that can be drawn from a relationship formed in a harrowing environment. Milena and Darcy’s performance is heart wrenching.”

Carbajal and Feist were successful in their other events as well. Milena won 2nd place in Dramatic Interpretation, and Darcy won 2nd place in Program of Oral Interpretation. Both finishes are strong enough to qualify for nationals, but the girls preferred to compete together with their Duo at the national tournament.

Overall, Great Bend Speech and Debate had a successful tournament with eight separate people breaking, or advancing, to the final round.

Junior Anna Bitter was first alternate for a national’s spot in both Humorous Interpretation and Program of Oral Interpretation. Sophomore Ellie Damm was 5th in Dramatic Interpretation, and Sophomore Quinton Heath was 7th in both Dramatic and Humorous Interpretation.

In the speaking events, Sophomore Zachary Hart placed 5th in International Extemporaneous speaking. Junior Reese King was 6th in both Informative and Original Oration.

Other Panthers earning points towards the team sweepstakes championship trophy included Rhys Froetschner, Parker Coleman, Kyra Lewis, Hunter McClanahan, Kendra Scheideman and Dominik Zimmerman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713809018555.jpeg" alt="National Qualifiers: Milena Carbal, Chrisangel Adame, Darcy Feist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>National Qualifiers: Milena Carbal, Chrisangel Adame, Darcy Feist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend High School forensics coach Kim Heath...Last weekend, the Great Bend Forensics team spent two days competing at the West Kansas District national qualifying tournament. In the end, the Panthers were named Speech Sweepstakes champions and three Panthers qualified for the national tournament in two separate events. Milena Carbajal and Darcy Feist won the Duo Interpretation event, and Chrisangel Adame qualified for the Senate in Congressional Debate. A total of fourteen Great Bend students competed at the tournament.The National Speech and Debate Tournament is being held in Des Moines, Iowa, later this year between June 16 and June 21. The tournament hosts thousands of students per year and allows them to compete in their respective events over the course of multiple days. After several elimination rounds, the top six in each category will perform on the main stage in front of the rest of the competitors and be ranked first through sixth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713809054499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chrisangel Adame, who qualified in Congressional Debate in the Senate, is going to nationals for the first time. Representing West KS in the National Student Senate is a unique kind of debate event. As Adame explained, “It is a mock congress in which you consider legislation and argue for and against different policy proposals using parliamentary procedure.”Milena Carbajal and Darcy Feist will be performing a Duo Interpretation at nationals cut from the memoir, Girl Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen. Their piece explores the trauma of mental illness and hospitalization during the early 1970s. Forensics coach, Kim Heath, explains that “the story the girls share is grim, but it highlights the strength that can be drawn from a relationship formed in a harrowing environment. Milena and Darcy’s performance is heart wrenching.”Carbajal and Feist were successful in their other events as well. Milena won 2nd place in Dramatic Interpretation, and Darcy won 2nd place in Program of Oral Interpretation. Both finishes are strong enough to qualify for nationals, but the girls preferred to compete together with their Duo at the national tournament.Overall, Great Bend Speech and Debate had a successful tournament with eight separate people breaking, or advancing, to the final round.Junior Anna Bitter was first alternate for a national’s spot in both Humorous Interpretation and Program of Oral Interpretation. Sophomore Ellie Damm was 5th in Dramatic Interpretation, and Sophomore Quinton Heath was 7th in both Dramatic and Humorous Interpretation.In the speaking events, Sophomore Zachary Hart placed 5th in International Extemporaneous speaking. Junior Reese King was 6th in both Informative and Original Oration.Other Panthers earning points towards the team sweepstakes championship trophy included Rhys Froetschner, Parker Coleman, Kyra Lewis, Hunter McClanahan, Kendra Scheideman and Dominik Zimmerman.

GBHS students qualify for National Speech & Debate Tournament

The environment in which we live, work, and play is more important than we realize. Studies show that the air we breathe, the buildings we reside in, and the neighborhoods we call home can impact physical and mental health. Some examples are glaring. Air pollutants, contaminated water, and chemical by-products can disrupt biological functions. Scientists suspect these can lead to serious health problems such as asthma, cancer, and Parkinson’s Disease.

On the other hand, some environmental factors affect health in less obvious, beneficial ways. If you are familiar with the Blue Zones, you know that people of these regions maintain exceptional health. This is due to lifestyle choices inspired by the physical environment. What do I mean by this? People of the Blue Zones are surrounded by opportunities that make the healthy choice, the easy choice. Walking trails, vegetable gardens, green spaces, and intergenerational living arrangements are not just accessible, they are the norm. People of these regions live in an environment that influences them to walk to work, prepare healthy meals, unwind in nature, and create lasting relationships.

As you can see, health is greatly influenced by the choices we make. And the choices we make depend largely on the environment we live in. For example, a cluttered area encourages people to leave trash behind. In fact, studies show that littering increases at these sites. Whereas, a well-kept area invites people to keep the space clean.

Our physical environment also influences stress levels which impacts the body and how we make decisions. A person who lives in an urban area can experience chronic stress due to continuous noise. However, access to green spaces and quiet areas reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves sleep quality. In turn, this affects how the brain functions. When you have reduced levels of stress and good mental health, you are equipped to problem solve and to make new, healthy choices.

The environment impacts our physical health and psychological well-being. It also influences our subconscious decisions. So, I challenge you to be aware of your ecological footprint and to advocate for a healthy environment. This can be done many ways. It can include the 3 R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle, or it can simply be picking up trash in a parking lot. It can even be through system changes like supporting your community to build more sidewalks, parks, and bike lanes. To find more ideas visit: https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/what-you-can-do

Together we can all make the healthy choice, the easy choice.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The environment in which we live, work, and play is more important than we realize. Studies show that the air we breathe, the buildings we reside in, and the neighborhoods we call home can impact physical and mental health. Some examples are glaring. Air pollutants, contaminated water, and chemical by-products can disrupt biological functions. Scientists suspect these can lead to serious health problems such as asthma, cancer, and Parkinson’s Disease.On the other hand, some environmental factors affect health in less obvious, beneficial ways. If you are familiar with the Blue Zones, you know that people of these regions maintain exceptional health. This is due to lifestyle choices inspired by the physical environment. What do I mean by this? People of the Blue Zones are surrounded by opportunities that make the healthy choice, the easy choice. Walking trails, vegetable gardens, green spaces, and intergenerational living arrangements are not just accessible, they are the norm. People of these regions live in an environment that influences them to walk to work, prepare healthy meals, unwind in nature, and create lasting relationships.As you can see, health is greatly influenced by the choices we make. And the choices we make depend largely on the environment we live in. For example, a cluttered area encourages people to leave trash behind. In fact, studies show that littering increases at these sites. Whereas, a well-kept area invites people to keep the space clean.Our physical environment also influences stress levels which impacts the body and how we make decisions. A person who lives in an urban area can experience chronic stress due to continuous noise. However, access to green spaces and quiet areas reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves sleep quality. In turn, this affects how the brain functions. When you have reduced levels of stress and good mental health, you are equipped to problem solve and to make new, healthy choices.The environment impacts our physical health and psychological well-being. It also influences our subconscious decisions. So, I challenge you to be aware of your ecological footprint and to advocate for a healthy environment. This can be done many ways. It can include the 3 R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle, or it can simply be picking up trash in a parking lot. It can even be through system changes like supporting your community to build more sidewalks, parks, and bike lanes. To find more ideas visit: https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/what-you-can-doTogether we can all make the healthy choice, the easy choice.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Make the healthy choice, the easy choice

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Cheyenne Bottoms offers endless research possibilities. Educators at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center want to share some of their knowledge with a series of summer camps for children of all ages. Educator Mandy Kern said there will be something for everyone.

"The goal is to get kids outside and interested in nature," she said. "They'll have outdoor exploration and animal and plant investigations. The grade school camps will have nature-related crafts and games. The middle school/high school camp will be more of what the day in the life of a field biologist looks like and some of the research they can do at Cheyenne Bottoms."

Registration for all three camps is $20. On June 10, KWEC will host a Field Biology Day Camp for students who have completed grades 7-11. Registration is due by May 20. A Discovery Camp for grades 1-3 will be held July 16 and 18, with registration due June 26. Grades 4-6 will have their Discovery Camp on July 23 and 25, with registration due on June 26. Both Discovery Camps will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"Busy parents and working parents might not be able to get their kids here from 9-3," Kern said. "They can drop them off as early as 7:30 a.m. and pick them up as late as 5:30 p.m. for an additional $10."

Times for the Field Biology Day Camp will be determined at a later time.

"Last year, we did several different things and we started a little bit earlier in the day to beat the heat for some of the outdoor activities," Kern said, "and also, some of the animals we were doing research on, you have to get up early to catch them."

Camp attendees will need to bring a sack lunch but snacks will be provided. Call the KWEC at (877) 243-9268 to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713460489458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCheyenne Bottoms offers endless research possibilities. Educators at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center want to share some of their knowledge with a series of summer camps for children of all ages. Educator Mandy Kern said there will be something for everyone."The goal is to get kids outside and interested in nature," she said. "They'll have outdoor exploration and animal and plant investigations. The grade school camps will have nature-related crafts and games. The middle school/high school camp will be more of what the day in the life of a field biologist looks like and some of the research they can do at Cheyenne Bottoms."Registration for all three camps is $20. On June 10, KWEC will host a Field Biology Day Camp for students who have completed grades 7-11. Registration is due by May 20. A Discovery Camp for grades 1-3 will be held July 16 and 18, with registration due June 26. Grades 4-6 will have their Discovery Camp on July 23 and 25, with registration due on June 26. Both Discovery Camps will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m."Busy parents and working parents might not be able to get their kids here from 9-3," Kern said. "They can drop them off as early as 7:30 a.m. and pick them up as late as 5:30 p.m. for an additional $10."Times for the Field Biology Day Camp will be determined at a later time."Last year, we did several different things and we started a little bit earlier in the day to beat the heat for some of the outdoor activities," Kern said, "and also, some of the animals we were doing research on, you have to get up early to catch them."Camp attendees will need to bring a sack lunch but snacks will be provided. Call the KWEC at (877) 243-9268 to register.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center taking registration for summer camps

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal ATV/RTV accident that occurred over the weekend.

On Saturday, April 20, just after 5 p.m. the Sheriff’s Office was notified of an accident near the diversion dam on the Arkansas River just south of Dundee. Upon arrival, deputies located the male driver who had sustained serious head injuries.

Investigation at the scene indicates that a 2014 Polaris Razor, operated by Wilbert Sanko, age 37 of Great Bend, was eastbound in the riverbed. The vehicle went into a skid causing it to overturn, pinning Sanko underneath. Witnesses at the scene immediately began first aid measures until Great Bend EMS arrived. Sanko was transported to The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus where he later succumbed to his injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Cole Amick age 33 of Great Bend, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene but not transported. Neither occupant had restraints on at the time of the crash. 

The accident remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Great Bend Fire and EMS units and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal ATV/RTV accident that occurred over the weekend.On Saturday, April 20, just after 5 p.m. the Sheriff’s Office was notified of an accident near the diversion dam on the Arkansas River just south of Dundee. Upon arrival, deputies located the male driver who had sustained serious head injuries.Investigation at the scene indicates that a 2014 Polaris Razor, operated by Wilbert Sanko, age 37 of Great Bend, was eastbound in the riverbed. The vehicle went into a skid causing it to overturn, pinning Sanko underneath. Witnesses at the scene immediately began first aid measures until Great Bend EMS arrived. Sanko was transported to The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus where he later succumbed to his injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Cole Amick age 33 of Great Bend, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene but not transported. Neither occupant had restraints on at the time of the crash. The accident remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Great Bend Fire and EMS units and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Investigating fatal ATV accident in Barton County

Barton County's health providers want to provide help. Sometimes they need a little assistance. The Barton County Health Department is currently working with area hospitals to determine the needs of residents. Director Karen Winkelman said they have already worked with The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus on a Community Health Needs Assessment. Staff is now gathering information from Ellinwood Community Hospital, and Clara Barton Hospital is on the schedule for next month.

"It's just what it says," Winkelman said. "It's a needs assessment to assess each community and see what needs are not being met, and also to look at needs that have been met. This helps identify gaps."

Data collection may be done through surveys, focus groups, or town hall meetings. Hospitals are required to do a community needs assessment every three years, and health departments must do an assessment every two years. The data not only helps caregivers meet the needs of the public, but the information can also be used to secure grant funding.

"We have a lot in common: mental health, mental health access, transportation to get to appointments or to get to those special appointments out of town," Winkelman said. "Another one has been access to health foods, farmer's markets, and things like that."

The spring is shaping up to be a busy one at the Barton County Health Department. DEA National Drug Takeback Day is Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the east side of the courthouse. The farmer's market returns to Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays starting in late May. The fourth annual Community Baby Shower is scheduled for Thursday, June 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642101488564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBarton County's health providers want to provide help. Sometimes they need a little assistance. The Barton County Health Department is currently working with area hospitals to determine the needs of residents. Director Karen Winkelman said they have already worked with The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus on a Community Health Needs Assessment. Staff is now gathering information from Ellinwood Community Hospital, and Clara Barton Hospital is on the schedule for next month."It's just what it says," Winkelman said. "It's a needs assessment to assess each community and see what needs are not being met, and also to look at needs that have been met. This helps identify gaps."Data collection may be done through surveys, focus groups, or town hall meetings. Hospitals are required to do a community needs assessment every three years, and health departments must do an assessment every two years. The data not only helps caregivers meet the needs of the public, but the information can also be used to secure grant funding."We have a lot in common: mental health, mental health access, transportation to get to appointments or to get to those special appointments out of town," Winkelman said. "Another one has been access to health foods, farmer's markets, and things like that."The spring is shaping up to be a busy one at the Barton County Health Department. DEA National Drug Takeback Day is Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the east side of the courthouse. The farmer's market returns to Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays starting in late May. The fourth annual Community Baby Shower is scheduled for Thursday, June 13.

Barton Co. Health Department assessing area health needs

4/19 BOOKED: Christian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Allen Ashauer on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine 3.5g &gt; 100g Within 1000 feet of a school, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $300,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant&nbsp;for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine 3.5g &gt; 100g Within 1000 feet of a school, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aric Untereiner-Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Lia Weber by order of the court.

RELEASED: Christian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Allen Ashauer on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Olivia Vargas on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

4/20 BOOKED: Samuel Mertens on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Gabriel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Minor in Possession and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Bryant Davis on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Michael Warren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Samuel Mertens on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Lights, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Gabriel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Minor in Possession and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

4/21 BOOKED: Kyle Wagner on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Sarah Cave on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Kyle Wagner on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Aric Untereiner-Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/19 BOOKED: Christian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Allen Ashauer on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine 3.5g &gt; 100g Within 1000 feet of a school, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $300,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant&nbsp;for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine 3.5g &gt; 100g Within 1000 feet of a school, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aric Untereiner-Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Lia Weber by order of the court.RELEASED: Christian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;RELEASED: Allen Ashauer on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Olivia Vargas on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.4/20 BOOKED: Samuel Mertens on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Gabriel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Minor in Possession and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Bryant Davis on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Michael Warren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Samuel Mertens on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Lights, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Gabriel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Minor in Possession and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.4/21 BOOKED: Kyle Wagner on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Sarah Cave on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Kyle Wagner on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Aric Untereiner-Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Sarah Cave on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/19 - 4/21)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

LaChelle Fitzmorris answered an advertisement in the Rush County News years
ago asking for volunteers to organize an all-school reunion for Otis-Bison High
School. Now, 15 years later, Fitzmorris is the president of the Otis-Bison
Alumni Association and she is gearing up for the reunion this summer that will
bring hundreds of former Otis-Bison graduates back to town.


"In the past we've had over 500 people show up," said Fitzmorris. "We've been able to reach a lot more people this year with social media, acquiring email addresses and contact information. We have a pretty good database now. Running our numbers, we're anticipating about 1,000 people for the weekend."

Started in 2009, the all-class reunion for Otis-Bison occurs every five years.
The 2024 edition will take place July 19-20.


Along with a beer garden, food vendors, cornhole tournament, music and an
alumni museum, there will be a “Cougar Catchup” to visit with former teachers
and coaches.


"It's for the alumni but it's open to the community too," said Fitzmorris. "There's a beer garden, food vendors, silent auction and a DJ both nights. Anybody is welcome."

Babysitting services will be provided for a fee both nights in the high school
gym. Find more information at <a href="https://www.otisbisonalumni.com/">www.otisbisonalumni.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713378207486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLaChelle Fitzmorris answered an advertisement in the Rush County News years
ago asking for volunteers to organize an all-school reunion for Otis-Bison High
School. Now, 15 years later, Fitzmorris is the president of the Otis-Bison
Alumni Association and she is gearing up for the reunion this summer that will
bring hundreds of former Otis-Bison graduates back to town.
"In the past we've had over 500 people show up," said Fitzmorris. "We've been able to reach a lot more people this year with social media, acquiring email addresses and contact information. We have a pretty good database now. Running our numbers, we're anticipating about 1,000 people for the weekend."Started in 2009, the all-class reunion for Otis-Bison occurs every five years.
The 2024 edition will take place July 19-20.
Along with a beer garden, food vendors, cornhole tournament, music and an
alumni museum, there will be a “Cougar Catchup” to visit with former teachers
and coaches.
"It's for the alumni but it's open to the community too," said Fitzmorris. "There's a beer garden, food vendors, silent auction and a DJ both nights. Anybody is welcome."Babysitting services will be provided for a fee both nights in the high school
gym. Find more information at <a href="https://www.otisbisonalumni.com/">www.otisbisonalumni.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713378061175.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Big turnout expected for Otis-Bison school reunion this summer

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Windy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 29 to 34 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 47 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north-northeast wind 11 to 16 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Northeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Thursday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. Breezy.

Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.

Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53. Breezy.

Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Windy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 29 to 34 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 47 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north-northeast wind 11 to 16 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Northeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Thursday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. Breezy.Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53. Breezy.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

KAWG awards Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship to Kaden Weltmer

Kaden Weltmer’s first three words were mom, dad and tractor. That combined passion for agriculture and family has never wavered as he worked on the family operation, took on leadership roles in 4-H and competed in FFA. Now a high school senior, his continued commitment to studying agriculture at Kansas State University and his plans to return to the family operation following college make him an ideal recipient for the 2024 Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers.

“Farming is in my blood, and I’ve loved it from a very young age,” Weltmer said, adding that his first tractor ride planting corn was at three weeks old. “When other people around me are asked what they wanted to be in life, they would say they didn’t know yet. For me, I have always known what I wanted to do; I love to farm.”&nbsp;

“The only thing better to young me than Christmas was getting out of school and getting to go out and ride in the combine with my dad.”&nbsp;

The Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship was established in 2009 to honor Herb Clutter’s influential role in organizing leadership groups on behalf of Kansas wheat producers and is supported by the generosity of the Herb Clutter family.&nbsp;

Herbert W. Clutter was a farmer from Holcomb and the first president of the National Association of Wheat Growers, which was established in 1948. Clutter encouraged Kansas wheat farmers to organize as a strong, unified voice, which led to the formation of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers in 1952. He encouraged research in education and industrial uses of wheat, improved variety development and methods to produce the best product at the lowest cost. Clutter’s efforts led to the formation of the Kansas Wheat Commission by the Kansas legislature in 1957.

Like Clutter, Weltmer grew up working on his family farm. On the family operation in Smith Center, they raise wheat, corn, soybeans and sorghum in addition to a cow-calf herd, a registered Angus cow herd and a registered Boer goat herd. The family also runs a small feed yard. Weltmer is already putting his lifetime of experience to work by cash-renting 93 acres of his own ground from his grandfather.&nbsp;

Weltmer is active in Smith County 4-H Council and FFA. His FFA agriscience project — “Digging Deeper: A Study of Stratification of Nutrients in No-till Soils” earned him a trip to nationals, where he placed second — as a high school freshman. He has also competed at the district, state and national FFA levels in multiple career development events including agronomy, agriculture mechanics, livestock judging and employability skills.&nbsp;

Next year, Weltmer plans to attend Kansas State University and pursue a dual major in agronomy and animal science — a combination of both of his parents’ degrees from K-State.

“I’ve always loved to do what any farm kid loves to do — running combines and tractors. But you can’t get a major in running a combine or a tractor,” Weltmer said. “I first started down the path of agronomy because I really liked projects like ‘Digging Deeper.’ That’s where I thought I would fall in love with agronomy. But then I continually worked with our cattle, and I decided I really like that too. That’s what led me down the path of finding the way I could come out with both.”&nbsp;

Following graduation, he wants to put what he learns to work back in Smith County as the next generation on the family operation.&nbsp;

“I plan to supplement our operation with an agronomy business focusing on custom soil sampling and drone work for people around our county,” he wrote in his application essay. “I found my passion at a young age, and I am excited to gain knowledge, connections and experiences and return to Smith County to do what I love — to maintain a sustainable operation and help strengthen our local community.”&nbsp;

Learn more about the Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pyhMC0nzvna1BpOBoTF3udbQG-xR49BaKThPrcHKpcLNrMbXtHF6-SadA12fUzBTOyptPF4blUexfiGGC7N0Gh-O2haU_xZIP7sgrY5tuce5u2qE2eORBhRQEl1U6QTf3kmjPxYGlXuOv5lcNqYA-84dQayIZQvZ&amp;c=4OKWGtwJr9RbKQUtO14LxtVhsD166TjmKizpE4_7xDQozGtqO5yUwQ==&amp;ch=9rsAPHr_dzjvIY5kk4D00vqyLT6ei96NQk1rz4-ecHYaRke0Lfet_w==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/clutter</a>.&nbsp;

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713457086569.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>KAWG awards Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship to Kaden Weltmer</h2>Kaden Weltmer’s first three words were mom, dad and tractor. That combined passion for agriculture and family has never wavered as he worked on the family operation, took on leadership roles in 4-H and competed in FFA. Now a high school senior, his continued commitment to studying agriculture at Kansas State University and his plans to return to the family operation following college make him an ideal recipient for the 2024 Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers.“Farming is in my blood, and I’ve loved it from a very young age,” Weltmer said, adding that his first tractor ride planting corn was at three weeks old. “When other people around me are asked what they wanted to be in life, they would say they didn’t know yet. For me, I have always known what I wanted to do; I love to farm.”&nbsp;“The only thing better to young me than Christmas was getting out of school and getting to go out and ride in the combine with my dad.”&nbsp;The Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship was established in 2009 to honor Herb Clutter’s influential role in organizing leadership groups on behalf of Kansas wheat producers and is supported by the generosity of the Herb Clutter family.&nbsp;Herbert W. Clutter was a farmer from Holcomb and the first president of the National Association of Wheat Growers, which was established in 1948. Clutter encouraged Kansas wheat farmers to organize as a strong, unified voice, which led to the formation of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers in 1952. He encouraged research in education and industrial uses of wheat, improved variety development and methods to produce the best product at the lowest cost. Clutter’s efforts led to the formation of the Kansas Wheat Commission by the Kansas legislature in 1957.Like Clutter, Weltmer grew up working on his family farm. On the family operation in Smith Center, they raise wheat, corn, soybeans and sorghum in addition to a cow-calf herd, a registered Angus cow herd and a registered Boer goat herd. The family also runs a small feed yard. Weltmer is already putting his lifetime of experience to work by cash-renting 93 acres of his own ground from his grandfather.&nbsp;Weltmer is active in Smith County 4-H Council and FFA. His FFA agriscience project — “Digging Deeper: A Study of Stratification of Nutrients in No-till Soils” earned him a trip to nationals, where he placed second — as a high school freshman. He has also competed at the district, state and national FFA levels in multiple career development events including agronomy, agriculture mechanics, livestock judging and employability skills.&nbsp;Next year, Weltmer plans to attend Kansas State University and pursue a dual major in agronomy and animal science — a combination of both of his parents’ degrees from K-State.“I’ve always loved to do what any farm kid loves to do — running combines and tractors. But you can’t get a major in running a combine or a tractor,” Weltmer said. “I first started down the path of agronomy because I really liked projects like ‘Digging Deeper.’ That’s where I thought I would fall in love with agronomy. But then I continually worked with our cattle, and I decided I really like that too. That’s what led me down the path of finding the way I could come out with both.”&nbsp;Following graduation, he wants to put what he learns to work back in Smith County as the next generation on the family operation.&nbsp;“I plan to supplement our operation with an agronomy business focusing on custom soil sampling and drone work for people around our county,” he wrote in his application essay. “I found my passion at a young age, and I am excited to gain knowledge, connections and experiences and return to Smith County to do what I love — to maintain a sustainable operation and help strengthen our local community.”&nbsp;Learn more about the Herb Clutter Memorial Scholarship at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pyhMC0nzvna1BpOBoTF3udbQG-xR49BaKThPrcHKpcLNrMbXtHF6-SadA12fUzBTOyptPF4blUexfiGGC7N0Gh-O2haU_xZIP7sgrY5tuce5u2qE2eORBhRQEl1U6QTf3kmjPxYGlXuOv5lcNqYA-84dQayIZQvZ&amp;c=4OKWGtwJr9RbKQUtO14LxtVhsD166TjmKizpE4_7xDQozGtqO5yUwQ==&amp;ch=9rsAPHr_dzjvIY5kk4D00vqyLT6ei96NQk1rz4-ecHYaRke0Lfet_w==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/clutter</a>.&nbsp;Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: For family and farm

Hear this month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired April 18, 2024.

The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third 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 Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired April 18, 2024.<div><iframe title="Focus on Ellinwood 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=t4b2m-15ea394-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 Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Focus on Ellinwood show

The City of Hoisington reminded citizens on social media that the fiberoptic buildout is underway.

BrightSpeed (formerly CenturyLink) is building fiber optic services to all of Hoisington's residents. Once the buildout is complete, residents will have the opportunity to purchase fiber internet from BrightSpeed.

The City of Hoisington reminded citizens on social media that the fiberoptic buildout is underway.BrightSpeed (formerly CenturyLink) is building fiber optic services to all of Hoisington's residents. Once the buildout is complete, residents will have the opportunity to purchase fiber internet from BrightSpeed.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FCityofHoisington%2Fposts%2Fpfbid06uiWAu48YYcZkBWdP9zoh4dSeHWVVjpj3gMtpaSPzHHgnMWLZsRaw3Kinw2hUyd3l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="488" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Fiberoptic buildout underway in Hoisington

The drought monitor report as of April
16 is showing conditions continuing to deteriorate.&nbsp; The state went from 19% of the state out of
dry conditions to only 3%.&nbsp; Most of
Western Kansas is now abnormally dry with moderate drought expanding.&nbsp; Severe drought is moving northward into
Stafford County.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (April 23 to 27) indicates a 60 to 70% chance of likely above normal temperatures
and a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (April 25
to May 1) indicates a 70 to 80% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and
a continued 40 to 50% leaning above normal for precipitation.&nbsp; 

It’s hard not to notice, that even
for Kansas, this spring’s weather has been windy.&nbsp; Very windy.&nbsp;
Weather patterns over the last several years have exhibited stronger
wind events, especially late winter to spring.&nbsp;
Combined with the lack of precipitation, this ha resulted in soil
erosion from wind.&nbsp; As this column has
discussed before, topsoil, the soil A horizon, is a very valuable resource and
it can take hundreds of years to generate a single inch of topsoil.&nbsp; There have been several days over the last
month where sky turned a hazy brown and overcast from moving soil.&nbsp; The more productive soil fraction, silt and
clay, is lost leaving sand behind. Losing topsoil combined with climate change
and its more extreme weather presents a challenge not only for crop and
livestock production but many offsite effects.&nbsp;


Wind blown soil can destroy/bury
offsite vegetation, fill in ditches, and end up in surface waters.&nbsp; It can cause serious illness and long-term
negative health effects when inhaled.&nbsp;
It’s even possible for certain lung infections to be caused inhaling
this dust.

Producers are already farming soil
negatively affected by the Dust Bowl.&nbsp; We
had made progress over the last several decades in protecting the soil by
adopting conservation tillage measures, especially no-tillage and
strip-tillage.&nbsp; However, over the last
decade we have seen an increase in tillage as producers cope with herbicide
resistant weeds, especially glyphosate resistance.&nbsp; There are alternative herbicides that help
but they are much more expensive.&nbsp; 

Here in Western Kansas we are in a
unique position.&nbsp; We have to deal with
both wind and water erosion.&nbsp; As you move
east and into the traditional Corn Belt, wind erosion isn’t really a concern.&nbsp; This means we have a double whammy.&nbsp; Wind erosion combined with a lack of soil
cover leads to more severe water erosion, especially with the heavy downpours
we can expect.

We all know the problem and are
living through it.&nbsp; Next week – How to
work towards dealing with the problem.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598717628840.jpeg" alt="Vic Martin, Instructor/Coordinator Agriculture/Weights and Measures at Barton Community College" />
 <figcaption>Vic Martin, Instructor/Coordinator Agriculture/Weights and Measures at Barton Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>The drought monitor report as of April
16 is showing conditions continuing to deteriorate.&nbsp; The state went from 19% of the state out of
dry conditions to only 3%.&nbsp; Most of
Western Kansas is now abnormally dry with moderate drought expanding.&nbsp; Severe drought is moving northward into
Stafford County.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (April 23 to 27) indicates a 60 to 70% chance of likely above normal temperatures
and a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (April 25
to May 1) indicates a 70 to 80% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and
a continued 40 to 50% leaning above normal for precipitation.&nbsp; It’s hard not to notice, that even
for Kansas, this spring’s weather has been windy.&nbsp; Very windy.&nbsp;
Weather patterns over the last several years have exhibited stronger
wind events, especially late winter to spring.&nbsp;
Combined with the lack of precipitation, this ha resulted in soil
erosion from wind.&nbsp; As this column has
discussed before, topsoil, the soil A horizon, is a very valuable resource and
it can take hundreds of years to generate a single inch of topsoil.&nbsp; There have been several days over the last
month where sky turned a hazy brown and overcast from moving soil.&nbsp; The more productive soil fraction, silt and
clay, is lost leaving sand behind. Losing topsoil combined with climate change
and its more extreme weather presents a challenge not only for crop and
livestock production but many offsite effects.&nbsp;
Wind blown soil can destroy/bury
offsite vegetation, fill in ditches, and end up in surface waters.&nbsp; It can cause serious illness and long-term
negative health effects when inhaled.&nbsp;
It’s even possible for certain lung infections to be caused inhaling
this dust.Producers are already farming soil
negatively affected by the Dust Bowl.&nbsp; We
had made progress over the last several decades in protecting the soil by
adopting conservation tillage measures, especially no-tillage and
strip-tillage.&nbsp; However, over the last
decade we have seen an increase in tillage as producers cope with herbicide
resistant weeds, especially glyphosate resistance.&nbsp; There are alternative herbicides that help
but they are much more expensive.&nbsp; Here in Western Kansas we are in a
unique position.&nbsp; We have to deal with
both wind and water erosion.&nbsp; As you move
east and into the traditional Corn Belt, wind erosion isn’t really a concern.&nbsp; This means we have a double whammy.&nbsp; Wind erosion combined with a lack of soil
cover leads to more severe water erosion, especially with the heavy downpours
we can expect.We all know the problem and are
living through it.&nbsp; Next week – How to
work towards dealing with the problem.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Keeping Soil in Place

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Bureau of Waste Management has announced the recipients of waste tire product grants. These annual waste tire grants are awarded to local municipalities and public and private schools K-12 across the state. The grants totaled $529,600.88 and were awarded to 51 organizations to fund projects that include the use of recycled tire products, including playground surfacing and picnic tables. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a $0.25/vehicle tire fee.

• City of Altamont, Labette County, Grant Amount $4,222.00 • City of Belleville, Republic County, Grant Amount $9,360.00 • City of Beloit Parks and Recreation, Mitchell County, Grant Amount $808.50 • City of Bentley, Sedgwick County, Grant Amount $4,294.50 • City of Caney, Montgomery County, Grant Amount $11,922.21 • City of Chetopa, Labette County, Grant Amount $7,842.00 • City of Dodge City Parks &amp; Recreation, Ford County, Grant Amount $37,895.80 • City of Edgerton, Johnson County, Grant Amount $24,791.36 • City of Eudora, Douglas County, Grant Amount $875.00 • City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Grant Amount $15,600.00 • City of Garden Plain, Sedgwick County, Grant Amount $2,072.5 • City of Garnett, Anderson County, Grant Amount $12,675.00 • City of Greensburg, Kiowa County, Grant Amount $3,153.5 • City of Harveyville, Wabaunsee County, Grant Amount $1,677.00 • City of Havensville, Pottawatomie County, Grant Amount $2,747.00 • City of Hays Parks Department, Ellis County, Grant Amount $8,142.00 • City of Howard, Elk County, Grant Amount $11,949.45 • City of Jewell, Jewell County, Grant Amount $3,120.00 • City of Kingman, Kingman County, Grant Amount $7,343.12 • City of Lebo, Coffey County, Grant Amount $14,175.45 • City of Longton, Elk County, Grant Amount $567.00 • City of McCune, Crawford County, Grant Amount $1,428.00 • City of Melvern, Osage County, Grant Amount $7,505.66 • City of Montezuma, Gray County, Grant Amount $3,328.00 • City of Osage, Osage County, Grant Amount $4,416.00 • City of Ottawa, Franklin County, Grant Amount $32,938.90 • City of Overbrook, Osage County, Grant Amount $1,922.50 • City of Prairie Village, Johnson County, Grant Amount $20,715.21 • City of Randall, Jewell County, Grant Amount $880.00 • City of Salina, Saline County, Grant Amount $13,502.50 • City of Stockton, Rooks County, Grant Amount $34,951.00 • City of Valley Falls, Jefferson County, Grant Amount $8,226.00 • City of Washington, Washington County, Grant Amount $2,887.00 • City of Wellington, Sumner County, Grant Amount $19,354.54 • City of Whitting, Jackson County, Grant Amount $14,133.10 • City of Williamsburg, Franklin County, Grant Amount $1,681.00 • Gertrude Walker Elementary, Finney County, Grant Amount $2,188.00 • Lakemary Center, Johnson County, Grant Amount $40,155.00 • Most Pure Heart of Mary School, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $13,847.64 • Shawnee County Parks &amp; Rec, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $12,431.59 • USD #216 Deerfield, Kearney County, Grant Amount $8,048.50 • USD #252, Southern Lyon County, Grant Amount $18,800.47 • USD #327 United School District, Ellsworth County, Grant Amount $20,568.50 • USD #330 Mission Valley School District, Wabaunsee County, Grant Amount $3,960.00 • USD #345 Seaman School District, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $2,735.00 • USD #385 Sunflower Elementary, Butler County, Grant Amount $994.00 • USD #408 Recreation, Marion County, Grant Amount $3,282.00 • USD #462 Central Elementary USD, Cowley County, Grant Amount $14,075.00 • USD #469 Inclusive Playground Committee, Leavenworth County, Grant Amount $32,188.88 • USD #479 Stephanie Edgerton, Anderson County, Grant Amount $766.50 • USD #509 South Haven School, Sumner County, Grant Amount $2,457.00

Please visit the website for information about their projects and dollar amounts awarded.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxNi45MzQyMTAwMSJ9.uRlH4DPI-6qnbZTF_YacSgQbAx5_MHTW3ko6BuGBGLE/s/1305943094/br/240814285174-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/700/Waste-Reduction-Public-Education-Grants</a>

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Bureau of Waste Management has announced the recipients of waste tire product grants. These annual waste tire grants are awarded to local municipalities and public and private schools K-12 across the state. The grants totaled $529,600.88 and were awarded to 51 organizations to fund projects that include the use of recycled tire products, including playground surfacing and picnic tables. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a $0.25/vehicle tire fee.• City of Altamont, Labette County, Grant Amount $4,222.00 • City of Belleville, Republic County, Grant Amount $9,360.00 • City of Beloit Parks and Recreation, Mitchell County, Grant Amount $808.50 • City of Bentley, Sedgwick County, Grant Amount $4,294.50 • City of Caney, Montgomery County, Grant Amount $11,922.21 • City of Chetopa, Labette County, Grant Amount $7,842.00 • City of Dodge City Parks &amp; Recreation, Ford County, Grant Amount $37,895.80 • City of Edgerton, Johnson County, Grant Amount $24,791.36 • City of Eudora, Douglas County, Grant Amount $875.00 • City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Grant Amount $15,600.00 • City of Garden Plain, Sedgwick County, Grant Amount $2,072.5 • City of Garnett, Anderson County, Grant Amount $12,675.00 • City of Greensburg, Kiowa County, Grant Amount $3,153.5 • City of Harveyville, Wabaunsee County, Grant Amount $1,677.00 • City of Havensville, Pottawatomie County, Grant Amount $2,747.00 • City of Hays Parks Department, Ellis County, Grant Amount $8,142.00 • City of Howard, Elk County, Grant Amount $11,949.45 • City of Jewell, Jewell County, Grant Amount $3,120.00 • City of Kingman, Kingman County, Grant Amount $7,343.12 • City of Lebo, Coffey County, Grant Amount $14,175.45 • City of Longton, Elk County, Grant Amount $567.00 • City of McCune, Crawford County, Grant Amount $1,428.00 • City of Melvern, Osage County, Grant Amount $7,505.66 • City of Montezuma, Gray County, Grant Amount $3,328.00 • City of Osage, Osage County, Grant Amount $4,416.00 • City of Ottawa, Franklin County, Grant Amount $32,938.90 • City of Overbrook, Osage County, Grant Amount $1,922.50 • City of Prairie Village, Johnson County, Grant Amount $20,715.21 • City of Randall, Jewell County, Grant Amount $880.00 • City of Salina, Saline County, Grant Amount $13,502.50 • City of Stockton, Rooks County, Grant Amount $34,951.00 • City of Valley Falls, Jefferson County, Grant Amount $8,226.00 • City of Washington, Washington County, Grant Amount $2,887.00 • City of Wellington, Sumner County, Grant Amount $19,354.54 • City of Whitting, Jackson County, Grant Amount $14,133.10 • City of Williamsburg, Franklin County, Grant Amount $1,681.00 • Gertrude Walker Elementary, Finney County, Grant Amount $2,188.00 • Lakemary Center, Johnson County, Grant Amount $40,155.00 • Most Pure Heart of Mary School, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $13,847.64 • Shawnee County Parks &amp; Rec, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $12,431.59 • USD #216 Deerfield, Kearney County, Grant Amount $8,048.50 • USD #252, Southern Lyon County, Grant Amount $18,800.47 • USD #327 United School District, Ellsworth County, Grant Amount $20,568.50 • USD #330 Mission Valley School District, Wabaunsee County, Grant Amount $3,960.00 • USD #345 Seaman School District, Shawnee County, Grant Amount $2,735.00 • USD #385 Sunflower Elementary, Butler County, Grant Amount $994.00 • USD #408 Recreation, Marion County, Grant Amount $3,282.00 • USD #462 Central Elementary USD, Cowley County, Grant Amount $14,075.00 • USD #469 Inclusive Playground Committee, Leavenworth County, Grant Amount $32,188.88 • USD #479 Stephanie Edgerton, Anderson County, Grant Amount $766.50 • USD #509 South Haven School, Sumner County, Grant Amount $2,457.00Please visit the website for information about their projects and dollar amounts awarded.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxNi45MzQyMTAwMSJ9.uRlH4DPI-6qnbZTF_YacSgQbAx5_MHTW3ko6BuGBGLE/s/1305943094/br/240814285174-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/700/Waste-Reduction-Public-Education-Grants</a>

Ellsworth school district receives state waste tire grant

I follow several online birding sites and enjoy seeing birders report area sightings and activity. Lately, a common question appears repeatedly. Are orioles back?

To prepare for their return, we ordered a case of grape jelly and bought a sack of oranges to tempt these pretty birds to hang in our hood. Despite our eagerness to welcome them, we’ve yet to spy this favorite spring arrival. According to those who know, they first appear here between April 15 and May Day.

In case you want to encourage these colorful and animated visitors, check nearby cottonwood and elm trees for their distinctive nests. Think of them as tiny sleeping bags woven from grasses and other fibers that dangle from branches. Nest sightings during winter and spring trips through your neighborhood offer clues regarding potential oriole pairs sharing your locale. Once you note sack-like, swinging nests, think about setting up your own oriole feeding station to encourage their visits.

What we’ve learned from decades of gardening and birding is that these combined interests create a backyard universe that invites these eye-catching guests to stop for meals. While we don’t have proper trees for nesting, these and other insectivores thrive on tasty insects such as spiders, meal worms, wasps, beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. So, cultivating flowers and vegetables encourages them to forage under our watch even if they nest elsewhere. Placing bird baths, perches, and feeders in open areas around the yard increases the success of this natural pest control. In short time, harried bird parents snag insects in flight and off plants to deliver to a nest full of open-beaked young. It entertains me to watch these predators hunt. As a bonus, I pick fewer bugs off plants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713451821329.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINI follow several online birding sites and enjoy seeing birders report area sightings and activity. Lately, a common question appears repeatedly. Are orioles back?To prepare for their return, we ordered a case of grape jelly and bought a sack of oranges to tempt these pretty birds to hang in our hood. Despite our eagerness to welcome them, we’ve yet to spy this favorite spring arrival. According to those who know, they first appear here between April 15 and May Day.In case you want to encourage these colorful and animated visitors, check nearby cottonwood and elm trees for their distinctive nests. Think of them as tiny sleeping bags woven from grasses and other fibers that dangle from branches. Nest sightings during winter and spring trips through your neighborhood offer clues regarding potential oriole pairs sharing your locale. Once you note sack-like, swinging nests, think about setting up your own oriole feeding station to encourage their visits.What we’ve learned from decades of gardening and birding is that these combined interests create a backyard universe that invites these eye-catching guests to stop for meals. While we don’t have proper trees for nesting, these and other insectivores thrive on tasty insects such as spiders, meal worms, wasps, beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. So, cultivating flowers and vegetables encourages them to forage under our watch even if they nest elsewhere. Placing bird baths, perches, and feeders in open areas around the yard increases the success of this natural pest control. In short time, harried bird parents snag insects in flight and off plants to deliver to a nest full of open-beaked young. It entertains me to watch these predators hunt. As a bonus, I pick fewer bugs off plants.Last summer, we observed five pairs of oriole parents harvesting insects to feed perpetually hungry offspring. Once the oriole young fledged, parents guided them to our prairie Eden for advanced schooling. Watching them instruct youngsters to identify and capture meals entertained me more than one morning while I sipped coffee on our deck. Occasionally, I snorted java as lessons turned western as newbies caught grasshoppers or cicadas nearly their size.To invite orioles into your world, hang bright orange feeders containing a grape jelly filled dish. These feeders also include prongs for hanging halved oranges. Several visiting pairs can devour an orange a day and lick the jelly bowl clean when they’re not snarfing protein-packed insects.The detail about oranges gives pause to fruit growers. As summer advances, orioles add fruit to their diet of creepy crawlers. For those making fruit jellies, cobblers, and pies, simply trim bird pecks in peaches, apples or tomatoes. Unfortunately, these invasions alarm fruit sellers so don’t hang feeders near an orchard.For those who’ve noticed fibrous sacks dangling from nearby branches and get a kick out of backyard birdwatching, design a universe that invites orioles. Provide fresh water and hang a feeder or 2. Heads up! It’s cheaper to order jelly and oranges by the case so you won’t worry about empty-shelf syndrome during the peak of oriole feeding season. Grow flowers and vegetables. Then make time to sit outside watching orioles control pesky insects. It’s worth a pecked tomato or two considering how many bugs they eat.Such backyard pleasures encourage me to attend to minute details I’d miss otherwise. This alternate universe near our deck fascinates me and cleans my nostrils during a good coffee snort.

Local