Hear this month's Kansas Wetlands Education Center show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and KWEC staff Curtis Wolf and Mandy Kern that aired April 1, 2024.

The KWEC Show airs the first Monday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Kansas Wetlands Education Center show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and KWEC staff Curtis Wolf and Mandy Kern that aired April 1, 2024.<div><iframe title="Kansas Wetlands Education Center 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=pdega-15d0e20-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 KWEC Show airs the first Monday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Kansas Wetlands Education Center show

The plant with the little purple flowers that have been showing up in home lawns is called henbit. If you are not sure this is what you have, check the stems. If they are square rather than round, you have henbit. A plant that also is low growing but has round stems and tiny white flowers is chickweed.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both these plants are winter annuals and start to grow in the fall. They spend the winter as small plants and so most people do not pay much attention to them until they start to flower in the spring. Trying to kill either one at this late stage with a herbicide usually is a waste of time and money. Though plants may be burned back, they will rarely be killed. So what should you do? Remember, these are winter annuals that will die as soon as the weather turns hot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Keep the lawn mowed until nature takes its course.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, you can do something next fall that will help the following spring. There are two possible courses of action, as far as chemical controls go. The first is to apply a preemergence herbicide in early to mid-September.&nbsp; This will prevent henbit and other winter annuals from germinating. Preemergence herbicides labeled for both henbit and chickweed include prodiamine (Barricade), dithiopyr (Dimension),&nbsp; isoxaben (Gallery), pendimethalin (Halts and others), oryzalin (Surflan and Weed Impede) and XL. All but Surflan, Weed Impede and XL are also labeled for speedwell. The second course of action is to wait until late October or early November (after most henbit has germinated) and use a postemergence broadleaf herbicide, such as those mentioned above. With this approach, most of the henbit will be killed but, because small numbers of henbit continue to germinate through the late fall and winter, some plants will be missed. This approach works well because henbit is relatively easy to kill in the fall and many people want to treat for dandelions at that time (i.e., October) anyway. Just remember you will have to do some spot-spraying in the spring if you want to get all the henbit. As a final note, henbit will not be very competitive in dense, healthy lawns, so good cultural management will reduce the need for herbicides.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The plant with the little purple flowers that have been showing up in home lawns is called henbit. If you are not sure this is what you have, check the stems. If they are square rather than round, you have henbit. A plant that also is low growing but has round stems and tiny white flowers is chickweed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both these plants are winter annuals and start to grow in the fall. They spend the winter as small plants and so most people do not pay much attention to them until they start to flower in the spring. Trying to kill either one at this late stage with a herbicide usually is a waste of time and money. Though plants may be burned back, they will rarely be killed. So what should you do? Remember, these are winter annuals that will die as soon as the weather turns hot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Keep the lawn mowed until nature takes its course.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, you can do something next fall that will help the following spring. There are two possible courses of action, as far as chemical controls go. The first is to apply a preemergence herbicide in early to mid-September.&nbsp; This will prevent henbit and other winter annuals from germinating. Preemergence herbicides labeled for both henbit and chickweed include prodiamine (Barricade), dithiopyr (Dimension),&nbsp; isoxaben (Gallery), pendimethalin (Halts and others), oryzalin (Surflan and Weed Impede) and XL. All but Surflan, Weed Impede and XL are also labeled for speedwell. The second course of action is to wait until late October or early November (after most henbit has germinated) and use a postemergence broadleaf herbicide, such as those mentioned above. With this approach, most of the henbit will be killed but, because small numbers of henbit continue to germinate through the late fall and winter, some plants will be missed. This approach works well because henbit is relatively easy to kill in the fall and many people want to treat for dandelions at that time (i.e., October) anyway. Just remember you will have to do some spot-spraying in the spring if you want to get all the henbit. As a final note, henbit will not be very competitive in dense, healthy lawns, so good cultural management will reduce the need for herbicides.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Henbit and chickweed in lawns

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The USD 431 Board of Education had a pair of options for renovations of the press box at Elton Brown Field outside Hoisington High School. Adding a second level to the box would cost the district approximately $90,000. Option two included cosmetic improvements to the existing box and extending the guard rail on the roof for roughly half that price. At Monday's meeting, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis put the matter to a vote.

"Looking at the money side of it, I think going ahead and expanding the rail at the top, I think our best bet is to just go with option two," he said. "That would be a cost of $46,675. With the donations from the Herres Family Foundation of approximately $13,000, that would bring our cost to about $33,675."

Dr. Blake Herres called Cardinal football games on the radio for more than 20 years before he passed away in March 2023. Donations from his foundation will offset some costs, and Crowdis said there are options to cover the remaining amount. The balance can be paid outright from capital outlay or even offset by delaying carpet replacement in three rooms as part of a regular schedule.

"The three rooms we would actually be looking at doing next summer have no issues in their carpet right now," said Crowdis. "We're not delaying an issue. Their carpet is fine. It's just in the rotation that we've set up that we're moving forward with."

The approved renovation will include nearly tripling the rooftop space with the expanded guard rail, wrapping the press box with metal panels, and replacing the windows. Bartz Construction submitted the lone bid for the work and expects to have the renovations completed before the 2024 football season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696439329752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe USD 431 Board of Education had a pair of options for renovations of the press box at Elton Brown Field outside Hoisington High School. Adding a second level to the box would cost the district approximately $90,000. Option two included cosmetic improvements to the existing box and extending the guard rail on the roof for roughly half that price. At Monday's meeting, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis put the matter to a vote."Looking at the money side of it, I think going ahead and expanding the rail at the top, I think our best bet is to just go with option two," he said. "That would be a cost of $46,675. With the donations from the Herres Family Foundation of approximately $13,000, that would bring our cost to about $33,675."Dr. Blake Herres called Cardinal football games on the radio for more than 20 years before he passed away in March 2023. Donations from his foundation will offset some costs, and Crowdis said there are options to cover the remaining amount. The balance can be paid outright from capital outlay or even offset by delaying carpet replacement in three rooms as part of a regular schedule."The three rooms we would actually be looking at doing next summer have no issues in their carpet right now," said Crowdis. "We're not delaying an issue. Their carpet is fine. It's just in the rotation that we've set up that we're moving forward with."The approved renovation will include nearly tripling the rooftop space with the expanded guard rail, wrapping the press box with metal panels, and replacing the windows. Bartz Construction submitted the lone bid for the work and expects to have the renovations completed before the 2024 football season.

Hoisington school board moves ahead with press box upgrade

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Pawnee Rock public water supply system located in Barton County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on April 4 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 620-982-4386, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjE3MDEifQ.344H4oMoEIAYW_9qQcHpLix27OYZSWTQCBKd9gPvJZ4/s/1305943094/br/240150878780-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Pawnee Rock public water supply system located in Barton County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on April 4 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 620-982-4386, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjE3MDEifQ.344H4oMoEIAYW_9qQcHpLix27OYZSWTQCBKd9gPvJZ4/s/1305943094/br/240150878780-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Boil water advisory issued for Pawnee Rock in Barton County

Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that Clifford The Big Red Dog will be at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo during the Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20th from 11 AM to 2 PM.

Those in attendance will have a chance to meet Clifford The Big Red Dog in person and take pictures with him. The first 500 kids that come to meet Clifford will receive a FREE gift from Smoky Hills PBS.

“This will be our second year attending the Earth Day Celebration,” said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS. “We are thrilled to be back in Great Bend again and Clifford is wagging his tail with excitement to meet you, so don’t miss this FREE, fun event on April 20!”

The Great Bend Earth Day Celebration is presented by Rosewood ECycle, Great Bend Dairy Queen and the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Booths will be set-up throughout the zoo with activities.

Family Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712236237769.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that Clifford The Big Red Dog will be at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo during the Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20th from 11 AM to 2 PM.Those in attendance will have a chance to meet Clifford The Big Red Dog in person and take pictures with him. The first 500 kids that come to meet Clifford will receive a FREE gift from Smoky Hills PBS.“This will be our second year attending the Earth Day Celebration,” said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS. “We are thrilled to be back in Great Bend again and Clifford is wagging his tail with excitement to meet you, so don’t miss this FREE, fun event on April 20!”The Great Bend Earth Day Celebration is presented by Rosewood ECycle, Great Bend Dairy Queen and the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Booths will be set-up throughout the zoo with activities.Family Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.

Clifford The Big Red Dog coming to Great Bend

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

While spring temperatures are just becoming the normal now in Central
Kansas, it will not be too long before summer days are here. With the turn in weather,
mosquitos start to make their return. 

Like many cities, Great Bend has a
combative approach to keep the mosquito population in check with spraying routines.
Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson said it is time to prepare for
the upcoming mosquito season.


"The mosquito foggers are off getting calibrated," said Anderson. "We'll have mosquitos again so we're getting those calibrated and ready to go for the season."

Last year, Great Bend used two different chemicals. One chemical kills the
mosquitos and the other sterilizes. One side of town gets the sterilizing
chemical and the other gets the one that kills the insects. The following week,
the city switches.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692972579733.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile spring temperatures are just becoming the normal now in Central
Kansas, it will not be too long before summer days are here. With the turn in weather,
mosquitos start to make their return. Like many cities, Great Bend has a
combative approach to keep the mosquito population in check with spraying routines.
Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson said it is time to prepare for
the upcoming mosquito season.
"The mosquito foggers are off getting calibrated," said Anderson. "We'll have mosquitos again so we're getting those calibrated and ready to go for the season."Last year, Great Bend used two different chemicals. One chemical kills the
mosquitos and the other sterilizes. One side of town gets the sterilizing
chemical and the other gets the one that kills the insects. The following week,
the city switches.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend preparing for upcoming mosquito season

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/3)

At 9:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 3600 block of
Railroad Avenue.

At 1:32 p.m. a theft was reported at 10 NE 20 Road.

At 3:30 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1171 NE 130
Avenue in Claflin.

At 9:17 p.m. the K-9 was called out to MM 218 on E. US 56
Highway.

At 9:23 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 160 Avenue in Claflin.

At 11:22 p.m. the K-9 was called out at W. 2nd
&amp; N. Center Street.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/3)

At 3:03 a.m. falls were reported at 2605 20th
Street.

At 8:06 a.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton.

At 8:36 a.m. an officer handled an overdose/poisoning call
at 1508 Main Street.

At 3:21 p.m. a Tesla plugged into the building without the
owners permission was reported at 204 Cleveland.

At 4:14 p.m. a cat bite was reported at 1212 Baker.

At 4:39 p.m. a cow out was reported at 24th &amp;
McKinley.

At 5:30 p.m. questions about a vehicle with loud exhaust was
reported at 2006 Jackson.

At 5:52 p.m. a passenger car speeding was reported at 3503
10th Street.

At 7:33 p.m. a burglary was reported at 5226 Eisenhower
Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/3)Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 3600 block of
Railroad Avenue.TheftAt 1:32 p.m. a theft was reported at 10 NE 20 Road.Animal ComplaintAt 3:30 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1171 NE 130
Avenue in Claflin.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 9:17 p.m. the K-9 was called out to MM 218 on E. US 56
Highway.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 9:23 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 160 Avenue in Claflin.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:22 p.m. the K-9 was called out at W. 2nd
&amp; N. Center Street.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/3)FallsAt 3:03 a.m. falls were reported at 2605 20th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:06 a.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton.Overdose/ PoisoningAt 8:36 a.m. an officer handled an overdose/poisoning call
at 1508 Main Street.TheftAt 3:21 p.m. a Tesla plugged into the building without the
owners permission was reported at 204 Cleveland.Animal ComplaintAt 4:14 p.m. a cat bite was reported at 1212 Baker.Cattle OutAt 4:39 p.m. a cow out was reported at 24th &amp;
McKinley.Noise ComplaintAt 5:30 p.m. questions about a vehicle with loud exhaust was
reported at 2006 Jackson.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:52 p.m. a passenger car speeding was reported at 3503
10th Street.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 7:33 p.m. a burglary was reported at 5226 Eisenhower
Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 9:23 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway &amp; NE 160 Avenue in Claflin.

Cop Shop (4/3)

4/3 BOOKED: Stephen Moore on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Mercedes Mater on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $348 cash only.

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

RELEASED: Mercedes Mater on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $348 cash bond.

RELEASED: Tristan Rader 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; and on Sedgwick County District Court warrant for Aggravated Weapons Violation by a Felon and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, on $2,500 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/3 BOOKED: Stephen Moore on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Mercedes Mater on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $348 cash only.BOOKED: Emilio Sheets on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Mercedes Mater on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $348 cash bond.RELEASED: Tristan Rader 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; and on Sedgwick County District Court warrant for Aggravated Weapons Violation by a Felon and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, on $2,500 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/3)

The building at 2917 10th Street in Great Bend, formerly the KFC, has sat vacant since the fast-food fried chicken joint closed in December 2022. That is about to change. Nick Plava, manager at Amore Italian Restaurant, hopes his new restaurant will be open by mid-May.

"It's going to be a sit-down restaurant, a full-service restaurant," he said. Everything from pasta, chicken, shrimp, seafood, all that."

Plava and family have more than 20 years of restaurant experience. He is originally from Mississippi but has been running similar businesses in Kansas for the past year, with Amore restaurants opening in Hutchinson and Wichita in the fall of 2023, and a new store in Derby opening earlier this year. Amore restaurants offer a wide variety of made-from-scratch Italian cuisine.

Plava expects Amore to be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant will begin hiring help soon. Anyone interested in applying can contact Plava at (228) 819-5461.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712165152131.jpeg" alt="Amore Italian Restaurant has selected the former KFC building in Great Bend as its next location. The business has sister stores in Wichita, Hutchinson, and Derby." />
 <figcaption>Amore Italian Restaurant has selected the former KFC building in Great Bend as its next location. The business has sister stores in Wichita, Hutchinson, and Derby.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe building at 2917 10th Street in Great Bend, formerly the KFC, has sat vacant since the fast-food fried chicken joint closed in December 2022. That is about to change. Nick Plava, manager at Amore Italian Restaurant, hopes his new restaurant will be open by mid-May."It's going to be a sit-down restaurant, a full-service restaurant," he said. Everything from pasta, chicken, shrimp, seafood, all that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712229932571.jpeg" alt="Amore's Tour of Italy dish." />
 <figcaption>Amore's Tour of Italy dish.</figcaption>
 </figure>Plava and family have more than 20 years of restaurant experience. He is originally from Mississippi but has been running similar businesses in Kansas for the past year, with Amore restaurants opening in Hutchinson and Wichita in the fall of 2023, and a new store in Derby opening earlier this year. Amore restaurants offer a wide variety of made-from-scratch Italian cuisine.Plava expects Amore to be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant will begin hiring help soon. Anyone interested in applying can contact Plava at (228) 819-5461.

New Italian restaurant coming soon to Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 67. North-northeast wind 6 to 9 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 36. Southeast wind 6 to 10 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy, with a southeast wind 21 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.

Saturday A chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Windy, with a south-southeast wind 22 to 27 mph increasing to 32 to 37 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Saturday Night A slight chance of thunderstorms before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 10%.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 37. Breezy.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 65.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 62.

Tuesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 65.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 67. North-northeast wind 6 to 9 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 36. Southeast wind 6 to 10 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy, with a southeast wind 21 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.Saturday A chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Windy, with a south-southeast wind 22 to 27 mph increasing to 32 to 37 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Saturday Night A slight chance of thunderstorms before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 10%.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 37. Breezy.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 65.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 62.Tuesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 65.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

ABBAFAB will pay tribute to the legendary supergroup ABBA, one of the most popular and successful music groups of all time, for the Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s second to last concert of the 2023-2024 season. The concert is set for 7 p.m. Monday, April 8, in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

This GBCCA event is open to association members. No single concert tickets are available. Because the association encourages young people’s interest and education in music and the performing arts, full-time students are admitted for a $5 donation at the door.

ABBAFAB has played to sold-out crowds across the United States and abroad delivering a stunning tribute to ABBA’s musical hits that have stood the test of time and continue to thrill audiences of all ages.

Kelly-Anne Gower, as Anni-Frid, has graced London’s West End and international stages, with stars including Brian May and Hugh Jackman. Her credits include lead singer in “Leading Ladies of Broadway” in Las Vegas; Eponine in “Les Miserables” and Scaramouche in “We Will Rock You,” both in London.

Julia Davies, as Agnetha, grew up as a multi-instrumentalist performing in award-winning jazz bands, concert bands and drum lines. She went on to earn a degree in Music Industry Arts and Audio Engineering and Production. She has worked with many world-renowned artists including Neil Young, Santana, Alice Cooper, Johnny Depp and Brad Paisley.

Cullen Law, as Benny/piano, is a multi-instrumentalist, actor and singer, who has performed internationally on cruise ships, musical tours and countless regional theaters across America. He directed the music and performed in “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story,” marking his seventh production of the Buddy Holly Musical. He has worked with Tony award-winning directors, the London Symphony Orchestra, and numerous artists throughout his career.

Scotty Pearson, as Bjorn/guitar, at age 15 began learning, playing and performing music as soon and as often as he could. He says, “Any opportunity to put smiles on people’s faces is what makes my job as a performer so fulfilling.”

Fans of all ages already know the many ABBA songs this group will perform on the GBCCA stage, including “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,” Knowing Me Knowing You,” “SOS,” “Chiquitita,” “Mamma Mia,” and many more. For more information about the concert association, visit www.goldenbeltcca.org or “Like” Golden Belt Community Concert Association on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712155356232.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ABBAFAB will pay tribute to the legendary supergroup ABBA, one of the most popular and successful music groups of all time, for the Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s second to last concert of the 2023-2024 season. The concert is set for 7 p.m. Monday, April 8, in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.This GBCCA event is open to association members. No single concert tickets are available. Because the association encourages young people’s interest and education in music and the performing arts, full-time students are admitted for a $5 donation at the door.ABBAFAB has played to sold-out crowds across the United States and abroad delivering a stunning tribute to ABBA’s musical hits that have stood the test of time and continue to thrill audiences of all ages.Kelly-Anne Gower, as Anni-Frid, has graced London’s West End and international stages, with stars including Brian May and Hugh Jackman. Her credits include lead singer in “Leading Ladies of Broadway” in Las Vegas; Eponine in “Les Miserables” and Scaramouche in “We Will Rock You,” both in London.Julia Davies, as Agnetha, grew up as a multi-instrumentalist performing in award-winning jazz bands, concert bands and drum lines. She went on to earn a degree in Music Industry Arts and Audio Engineering and Production. She has worked with many world-renowned artists including Neil Young, Santana, Alice Cooper, Johnny Depp and Brad Paisley.Cullen Law, as Benny/piano, is a multi-instrumentalist, actor and singer, who has performed internationally on cruise ships, musical tours and countless regional theaters across America. He directed the music and performed in “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story,” marking his seventh production of the Buddy Holly Musical. He has worked with Tony award-winning directors, the London Symphony Orchestra, and numerous artists throughout his career.Scotty Pearson, as Bjorn/guitar, at age 15 began learning, playing and performing music as soon and as often as he could. He says, “Any opportunity to put smiles on people’s faces is what makes my job as a performer so fulfilling.”Fans of all ages already know the many ABBA songs this group will perform on the GBCCA stage, including “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,” Knowing Me Knowing You,” “SOS,” “Chiquitita,” “Mamma Mia,” and many more. For more information about the concert association, visit www.goldenbeltcca.org or “Like” Golden Belt Community Concert Association on Facebook.

ABBAFAB to give tribute to music of ABBA in Great Bend

This a follow-up to the Pawnee County Attorney’s Press Release of March 31, 2024

Larned, KS – Michael EG Reynolds, 67 of Larned, made his first appearance Wednesday morning before Pawnee County Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell on a three (3) counts of Felony Criminal Complaint. The defendant is charged with one count of Intentional Murder in the Second Degree, one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm. 

The charges stem from a joint investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Coroner Dr. Lyle Noordhoek. 

Just after 5 p.m., on Saturday, March 30, 2024, emergency dispatch was notified of a shooting that had just occurred at 1219 Kansas Highway 19 South, in rural Pawnee County.  Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered that Dr. Tomas Garza, 52 of Larned, had been shot multiple times during an argument with Reynolds. Garza was transported to an area hospital but died of his injuries. 

An individual that was with Garza at the time of the incident indicated the firearm in question had also been aimed at them.  Reynolds was taken into custody at the scene without incident.  It is the State’s position that Reynolds was not legally entitled to possess a firearm on the date in question due to an incident in 2015 involving a firearm.

At the first appearance, Judge Cowell advised the defendant of the charges, the possible penalties if convicted and his constitutional rights, including his right to counsel. 

 If convicted of the murder charge, under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines the defendant faces between 147 months and 653 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history. Counsel was appointed to represent the defendant and a preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 16, 2024 at 1 p.m. 

The Court granted the State’s request that the defendant be held without bond due to community safety concerns.  Reynolds remains in custody at the Pawnee County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712173361646.jpeg" alt="Michael Reynolds" />
 <figcaption>Michael Reynolds</figcaption>
 </figure>This a follow-up to the Pawnee County Attorney’s Press Release of March 31, 2024Larned, KS – Michael EG Reynolds, 67 of Larned, made his first appearance Wednesday morning before Pawnee County Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell on a three (3) counts of Felony Criminal Complaint. The defendant is charged with one count of Intentional Murder in the Second Degree, one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm. The charges stem from a joint investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Coroner Dr. Lyle Noordhoek. Just after 5 p.m., on Saturday, March 30, 2024, emergency dispatch was notified of a shooting that had just occurred at 1219 Kansas Highway 19 South, in rural Pawnee County. Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered that Dr. Tomas Garza, 52 of Larned, had been shot multiple times during an argument with Reynolds. Garza was transported to an area hospital but died of his injuries. An individual that was with Garza at the time of the incident indicated the firearm in question had also been aimed at them. Reynolds was taken into custody at the scene without incident. It is the State’s position that Reynolds was not legally entitled to possess a firearm on the date in question due to an incident in 2015 involving a firearm.At the first appearance, Judge Cowell advised the defendant of the charges, the possible penalties if convicted and his constitutional rights, including his right to counsel. If convicted of the murder charge, under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines the defendant faces between 147 months and 653 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history. Counsel was appointed to represent the defendant and a preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 16, 2024 at 1 p.m. The Court granted the State’s request that the defendant be held without bond due to community safety concerns. Reynolds remains in custody at the Pawnee County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Larned man makes first court appearance for murder charge

Sexual violence is an issue that never goes away. April has been designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month to raise awareness about the issue. Aimee Norris, director of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Center Program for the Family Crisis Center, presented the Barton County Commission a proclamation Tuesday morning to help raise awareness locally.

"Over half of women and nearly one in three men experience some form of contact of sexual violence in their lifetimes, and one incident of rape is reported to Kansas law enforcement every seven hours, 44 minutes, 44 seconds," Norris said. "More than 5,300 people receive services for sexual assault from Kansas victim advocacy organizations each year."

The Family Crisis Center has several events planned throughout April. The "What Were You Wearing" displays return to the Great Bend Public Library and Barton Community College to illustrate that sexual assaults happen no matter what the victim was wearing. Area banks are helping create or purchase SANE bags, or sexual assault nurse exam bags.

"At these banks, they are locations to either drop off items for the bag or one bag costs $30," said Norris. "So, as you're doing your banking throughout the month, just be aware we are collecting those bags to be given to the hospital here in town."

April is also Child Abuse Awareness Month. Saylem Ryff, director of the Child Advocacy Center Program, presented another proclamation to the commission. As part of raising awareness, a fun and educational event is scheduled at the Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend for Sunday, April 28. Ryff said there will be various booths and fun activities like a scavenger hunt.

"Our theme is 'Child Abuse Prevention Heroes' because there are so many people in this wonderful community who are working very hard to prevent and educate about child abuse," she said. "We'd really just like to make it known that it's simple. Some of the simplest things you can do to help prevent child abuse is teaching children proper names for body parts, teaching your children it's okay to say 'no,' things like that. We have a lot of resources and information available, and it will just be a fun day at the zoo."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680551962565.jpeg" alt="'What Were You Wearing' displays return to the Great Bend Public Library and Barton Community College this April as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month." />
 <figcaption>'What Were You Wearing' displays return to the Great Bend Public Library and Barton Community College this April as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSexual violence is an issue that never goes away. April has been designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month to raise awareness about the issue. Aimee Norris, director of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Center Program for the Family Crisis Center, presented the Barton County Commission a proclamation Tuesday morning to help raise awareness locally."Over half of women and nearly one in three men experience some form of contact of sexual violence in their lifetimes, and one incident of rape is reported to Kansas law enforcement every seven hours, 44 minutes, 44 seconds," Norris said. "More than 5,300 people receive services for sexual assault from Kansas victim advocacy organizations each year."The Family Crisis Center has several events planned throughout April. The "What Were You Wearing" displays return to the Great Bend Public Library and Barton Community College to illustrate that sexual assaults happen no matter what the victim was wearing. Area banks are helping create or purchase SANE bags, or sexual assault nurse exam bags."At these banks, they are locations to either drop off items for the bag or one bag costs $30," said Norris. "So, as you're doing your banking throughout the month, just be aware we are collecting those bags to be given to the hospital here in town."April is also Child Abuse Awareness Month. Saylem Ryff, director of the Child Advocacy Center Program, presented another proclamation to the commission. As part of raising awareness, a fun and educational event is scheduled at the Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend for Sunday, April 28. Ryff said there will be various booths and fun activities like a scavenger hunt."Our theme is 'Child Abuse Prevention Heroes' because there are so many people in this wonderful community who are working very hard to prevent and educate about child abuse," she said. "We'd really just like to make it known that it's simple. Some of the simplest things you can do to help prevent child abuse is teaching children proper names for body parts, teaching your children it's okay to say 'no,' things like that. We have a lot of resources and information available, and it will just be a fun day at the zoo."

Barton Co. proclaims April as Sexual Assault, Child Abuse Awareness Month

Our current winter wheat crop condition for Ellis and Barton County has been pretty favorable due to the precipitation events last fall and this winter. There are always exceptions to this, where the crop did not emerge until later, due to when the crop was planted, when and how much moisture was received.

No surprise to anyone, that our winter has been warmer than average, my wife would argue that fact with me, but the weather data does not lie. Growing degree days (GDD) is a measure used to estimate the growth and development of a certain crop during the growing season. According to Kansas Mesonet weather data the GDD are well ahead of the normal averages for our Kansas wheat crop.

Last week Kansas experienced a cold front that sent temperatures well below freezing. What kind of impact can that have on our wheat crop in this area. Well like so many things, it depends. Factors that influence the potential for freeze injury to wheat include primarily:

Other factors, such as position in the landscape and the presence of residue covering the soil surface, might also impact the extent of freeze damage within a field. “The challenge is integrating all these factors into a reasonable estimate of freeze injury”, according to Romulo Lollato, K-State Wheat Specialist.

Soil temperatures can help buffer freezing air temperatures if the growing point is below ground or near the soil surface. However, its buffering capacity decreases as the crop develops and the growing point moves above the soil surface. Thus, we can expect a positive effect from soil temperatures in the majority of the state since soil temperatures did not reach levels below 35 degrees F, with exception of southeast where the crop is further along and the growing point is well into the canopy.

For fields that have not jointed yet, the crop can generally withstand temperatures of 15-20°F fairly well, especially if the growing point is still below ground. Kansas Mesonet data indicates

that temperatures fell below this threshold, reaching as low as about 10°F in parts of northwest Kansas.

If the growing point is already above ground (first joint visible), wheat can sustain temperatures down to about 24 degrees F for a few hours. Minimum temperatures below 24°F for extended periods of time increase the risk of crop injury. Information from the K-State Mesonet indicates that air temperatures were around this 24°F threshold in most of central and north-central Kansas; however, they dipped below the threshold for as many as 17-21 hours in southwest Kansas, which can cause damage to fields at the first node of development or more advanced stages.

Based on the wheat growth stage, temperature and duration of temperature. Romulo Lollato says “we estimate that parts of southwest Kansas would be more exposed to the potential freeze damage”, given that the crop is relatively advanced (at or past jointing) and was met with many hours of air temperatures below 24°F, with lowest temperatures reaching 13°F.

In the remainder of the state, temperatures needed to cause damage at the observed crop stages were borderline, and therefore, we expect that only more advanced fields could sustain freeze damage.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Our current winter wheat crop condition for Ellis and Barton County has been pretty favorable due to the precipitation events last fall and this winter. There are always exceptions to this, where the crop did not emerge until later, due to when the crop was planted, when and how much moisture was received.No surprise to anyone, that our winter has been warmer than average, my wife would argue that fact with me, but the weather data does not lie. Growing degree days (GDD) is a measure used to estimate the growth and development of a certain crop during the growing season. According to Kansas Mesonet weather data the GDD are well ahead of the normal averages for our Kansas wheat crop.Last week Kansas experienced a cold front that sent temperatures well below freezing. What kind of impact can that have on our wheat crop in this area. Well like so many things, it depends. Factors that influence the potential for freeze injury to wheat include primarily:· Growth stage of the crop· Air temperatures· Duration of cold temperatures· Soil temperatures· Snow coverOther factors, such as position in the landscape and the presence of residue covering the soil surface, might also impact the extent of freeze damage within a field. “The challenge is integrating all these factors into a reasonable estimate of freeze injury”, according to Romulo Lollato, K-State Wheat Specialist.Soil temperatures can help buffer freezing air temperatures if the growing point is below ground or near the soil surface. However, its buffering capacity decreases as the crop develops and the growing point moves above the soil surface. Thus, we can expect a positive effect from soil temperatures in the majority of the state since soil temperatures did not reach levels below 35 degrees F, with exception of southeast where the crop is further along and the growing point is well into the canopy.For fields that have not jointed yet, the crop can generally withstand temperatures of 15-20°F fairly well, especially if the growing point is still below ground. Kansas Mesonet data indicatesthat temperatures fell below this threshold, reaching as low as about 10°F in parts of northwest Kansas.If the growing point is already above ground (first joint visible), wheat can sustain temperatures down to about 24 degrees F for a few hours. Minimum temperatures below 24°F for extended periods of time increase the risk of crop injury. Information from the K-State Mesonet indicates that air temperatures were around this 24°F threshold in most of central and north-central Kansas; however, they dipped below the threshold for as many as 17-21 hours in southwest Kansas, which can cause damage to fields at the first node of development or more advanced stages.Based on the wheat growth stage, temperature and duration of temperature. Romulo Lollato says “we estimate that parts of southwest Kansas would be more exposed to the potential freeze damage”, given that the crop is relatively advanced (at or past jointing) and was met with many hours of air temperatures below 24°F, with lowest temperatures reaching 13°F.In the remainder of the state, temperatures needed to cause damage at the observed crop stages were borderline, and therefore, we expect that only more advanced fields could sustain freeze damage.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: 2024 Kansas wheat crop and the weather

Years ago at the old Great Bend Police Department station on Williams
Street, the city established a safe drop-off zone for residents. With many
online market exchanges, people are selling items to local citizens. Instead of
having a stranger meet you at your house, the Great Bend Police Department
created a couple of parking stalls near the police station where patrons can
meet. 

City Administrator Brandon Anderson said a drop-off zone will be created
at the new police station at the intersection of 12th Street and
Baker Avenue.


"They'll be moving that to the new police station," said Anderson. "That'll be advertised and we'll get the word out on that. It's good to offer those safe drop-off zones for the public."

The drop-off zone will be under police surveillance and right next to the
nearly $9 million Justice Center. The Police Department is in the process of working
with the Public Works and Streets departments to create the drop-off stalls.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostYears ago at the old Great Bend Police Department station on Williams
Street, the city established a safe drop-off zone for residents. With many
online market exchanges, people are selling items to local citizens. Instead of
having a stranger meet you at your house, the Great Bend Police Department
created a couple of parking stalls near the police station where patrons can
meet. City Administrator Brandon Anderson said a drop-off zone will be created
at the new police station at the intersection of 12th Street and
Baker Avenue.
"They'll be moving that to the new police station," said Anderson. "That'll be advertised and we'll get the word out on that. It's good to offer those safe drop-off zones for the public."The drop-off zone will be under police surveillance and right next to the
nearly $9 million Justice Center. The Police Department is in the process of working
with the Public Works and Streets departments to create the drop-off stalls.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend police to create safe drop-off zones at new building

News from the Oil Patch, Apr. 1 John P. Tretbar

Crude prices rise to five-month highs. In lunchtime trading Monday the near-month contract for light sweet NYMEX crude was about a dollar higher, trading over $84 per barrel for the first time since late October. London Brent was also higher, rising over $87 by midday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson ended the month of March at $73.50 per barrel. The monthly average was $70.82 per barrel, which is up more than four dollars from February and more than seven dollars a barrel higher than March of last year.

Operators in Kansas completed 19 wells last week, with 12 in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 278 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 471 reported a year ago.

Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations statewide last week, with five in Western Kansas. That's 210 new drilling permits this year, compared to 296 by the end of March last year.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up two rigs in eastern Kansas at 13 rigs, and up one rig west of Wichita at 19 active rigs. The tally is up 69% from a month ago but down 20% from a year ago.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes Friday drops three oil rigs to 621.&nbsp; The count in New Mexico is up five rigs. Texas is down four, while Louisiana is down three rigs.

Mergers and acquisitions dominated the business landscape in the patch last year, especially in Texas and New Mexico. Buyouts spiked last year, as some of the oil and gas industry's biggest players sought to take over their rivals. The Energy Information Administration says it marks a return to a consolidation trend interrupted three years ago amid extreme volatility in the market.&nbsp; E.I.A. reported a total for last year of more than $234 BILLION, the biggest tally in 12 years. That total is driven by some big-bucks deals in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. ExxonMobil is buying Pioneer Natural Resources, for $64.5 BILLION; Chevron hopes to take over Hess Corporation, for $60 Billion. Chevron is currently the largest U.S. producer, accounting for five percent of the U.S. total. If the Hess deal goes through, that rises to six percent. Exxon Mobil's output would jump to seven percent of the U.S. total if the Pioneer deal goes through. That would make them the biggest operator in the U.S.

The government announced another crude-oil purchase to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. So far they've realized hundreds of millions of dollars in savings.&nbsp; Shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, The Department of Energy sold 180 million barrels of crude from the SPR, for more than $95 a barrel. The latest announcement last week brings the total U.S. purchases to more than 32 million barrels. DOE says the average price was below $77, for savings over 18-dollars a barrel, or more than 581 million dollars total.

The U.S. is a net importer of crude oil, but a net exporter when you add refined petroleum products to the equation.*The Energy Information Administration says domestic crude-oil imports averaged 6.7 million barrels a day (bpd) last week, an increase of 424,000 barrels from the week before.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, domestic crude-oil imports averaged over 6.4 million barrels a day, rising 427,000 barrels a day or seven percent over the same four weeks last year.*The U.S. imported 1.6 million barrels per day of petroleum products last week, up more than 200,000 barrels from the week before. Four-week average product imports are down more than 200,000 barrels from a year ago.*The U.S. exported over four million barrels a day of crude oil last week, and another 6.6 million barrels per day of petroleum products. Total exports are over 10.8 million bpd. That's down more than a million barrels from last week, but up 200,000 bpd from last year.*Four-week average exports are down 73,000 bpd from a year ago.&nbsp; Total petroleum exports exceed total petroleum imports by 2.4 million barrels a day. The difference is down from last week and last year, according weekly government data.

The Energy Information Administration reports a slight dip in U.S. crude-oil production last week. Domestic output averaged 13,132,000 barrels per day in the week through March 22nd.&nbsp; That's down about ten thousand barrels a day from the week before. Output has topped 13 million barrels a day in each week but one since early October. The current four-week production average exceeds 13.1 million barrels a day, beating the same four weeks last year by more than a million barrels a day.

The government reports domestic crude inventories rose by 3.2 million barrels last week. At over 448 million barrels, EIA said U.S. stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles were up more than a million barrels. Inventories of diesel fuel were more than a million barrels lower. Average national gasoline prices are up seven cents a gallon over last week and up a dime over a year ago.&nbsp; National diesel pries are up a fraction of a cent from last week, but down a dime from last year at this time. Across the Midwest, regular gasoline and diesel prices ticked up a few cents last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Apr. 1 John P. TretbarCrude prices rise to five-month highs. In lunchtime trading Monday the near-month contract for light sweet NYMEX crude was about a dollar higher, trading over $84 per barrel for the first time since late October. London Brent was also higher, rising over $87 by midday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson ended the month of March at $73.50 per barrel. The monthly average was $70.82 per barrel, which is up more than four dollars from February and more than seven dollars a barrel higher than March of last year.Operators in Kansas completed 19 wells last week, with 12 in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 278 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 471 reported a year ago.Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations statewide last week, with five in Western Kansas. That's 210 new drilling permits this year, compared to 296 by the end of March last year.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up two rigs in eastern Kansas at 13 rigs, and up one rig west of Wichita at 19 active rigs. The tally is up 69% from a month ago but down 20% from a year ago.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes Friday drops three oil rigs to 621.&nbsp; The count in New Mexico is up five rigs. Texas is down four, while Louisiana is down three rigs.Mergers and acquisitions dominated the business landscape in the patch last year, especially in Texas and New Mexico. Buyouts spiked last year, as some of the oil and gas industry's biggest players sought to take over their rivals. The Energy Information Administration says it marks a return to a consolidation trend interrupted three years ago amid extreme volatility in the market.&nbsp; E.I.A. reported a total for last year of more than $234 BILLION, the biggest tally in 12 years. That total is driven by some big-bucks deals in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. ExxonMobil is buying Pioneer Natural Resources, for $64.5 BILLION; Chevron hopes to take over Hess Corporation, for $60 Billion. Chevron is currently the largest U.S. producer, accounting for five percent of the U.S. total. If the Hess deal goes through, that rises to six percent. Exxon Mobil's output would jump to seven percent of the U.S. total if the Pioneer deal goes through. That would make them the biggest operator in the U.S.The government announced another crude-oil purchase to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. So far they've realized hundreds of millions of dollars in savings.&nbsp; Shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, The Department of Energy sold 180 million barrels of crude from the SPR, for more than $95 a barrel. The latest announcement last week brings the total U.S. purchases to more than 32 million barrels. DOE says the average price was below $77, for savings over 18-dollars a barrel, or more than 581 million dollars total.The U.S. is a net importer of crude oil, but a net exporter when you add refined petroleum products to the equation.*The Energy Information Administration says domestic crude-oil imports averaged 6.7 million barrels a day (bpd) last week, an increase of 424,000 barrels from the week before.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, domestic crude-oil imports averaged over 6.4 million barrels a day, rising 427,000 barrels a day or seven percent over the same four weeks last year.*The U.S. imported 1.6 million barrels per day of petroleum products last week, up more than 200,000 barrels from the week before. Four-week average product imports are down more than 200,000 barrels from a year ago.*The U.S. exported over four million barrels a day of crude oil last week, and another 6.6 million barrels per day of petroleum products. Total exports are over 10.8 million bpd. That's down more than a million barrels from last week, but up 200,000 bpd from last year.*Four-week average exports are down 73,000 bpd from a year ago.&nbsp; Total petroleum exports exceed total petroleum imports by 2.4 million barrels a day. The difference is down from last week and last year, according weekly government data.The Energy Information Administration reports a slight dip in U.S. crude-oil production last week. Domestic output averaged 13,132,000 barrels per day in the week through March 22nd.&nbsp; That's down about ten thousand barrels a day from the week before. Output has topped 13 million barrels a day in each week but one since early October. The current four-week production average exceeds 13.1 million barrels a day, beating the same four weeks last year by more than a million barrels a day.The government reports domestic crude inventories rose by 3.2 million barrels last week. At over 448 million barrels, EIA said U.S. stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles were up more than a million barrels. Inventories of diesel fuel were more than a million barrels lower. Average national gasoline prices are up seven cents a gallon over last week and up a dime over a year ago.&nbsp; National diesel pries are up a fraction of a cent from last week, but down a dime from last year at this time. Across the Midwest, regular gasoline and diesel prices ticked up a few cents last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Government SPR deals save $581 million

In November 2022, the USD 428 Board of Education approved up to $2 million for renovations to the turf and track at Great Bend High School's Memorial Stadium. The Panther football team enjoyed the new turf this past fall. On Monday, the Kansas State High School Activities Association announced the school would host a Class 5A regional track meet on May 16. Track and Field Coach Lyles Lashley said the event could bring more than 1,500 athletes, coaches, and parents to town.

"It's cool to be able to host, especially having an extra lane," he said. "Having eight lanes is really cool. I didn't think that would ever be possible here. I figured we were seven lanes no matter what, and it was kind of amazing we were able to figure that out."

The renovations included the addition of an eighth lane on the track, moving the high jump pit to the north end of the field near the other field events, and replacement of the jumping and vaulting surfaces. Unlike most regionals around the state, the Great Bend meet will start its field events a 2 p.m. and track preliminary races at 5 p.m. to allow for completion of the field events.

"As a coach, and a ton of coaches agree, we just hate our kids running around between the long jump and back and forth, or whatever event they're in," Lashley said. "It's nice for them to be able to focus. For us as a host facility, it's easier for us. We don't have to wrangle a kid to start the final of the long or triple jump. We can just keep rolling with it. It's going to be a little blessing in disguise."

The top four competitors from each event will advance to the KSHSAA State Track and Field Championships in Wichita the following week. Great Bend will be joined in the nine-team regional by the likes of Hays, Hutchinson, and two schools from both Goddard and Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683897283096.jpeg" alt="Lady Panther senior Addy Nicholson runs at a home meet last year. Great Bend will host the Jack Bowman Invitational on April 5, and a Class 5A regional meet on May 16." />
 <figcaption>Lady Panther senior Addy Nicholson runs at a home meet last year. Great Bend will host the Jack Bowman Invitational on April 5, and a Class 5A regional meet on May 16.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn November 2022, the USD 428 Board of Education approved up to $2 million for renovations to the turf and track at Great Bend High School's Memorial Stadium. The Panther football team enjoyed the new turf this past fall. On Monday, the Kansas State High School Activities Association announced the school would host a Class 5A regional track meet on May 16. Track and Field Coach Lyles Lashley said the event could bring more than 1,500 athletes, coaches, and parents to town."It's cool to be able to host, especially having an extra lane," he said. "Having eight lanes is really cool. I didn't think that would ever be possible here. I figured we were seven lanes no matter what, and it was kind of amazing we were able to figure that out."The renovations included the addition of an eighth lane on the track, moving the high jump pit to the north end of the field near the other field events, and replacement of the jumping and vaulting surfaces. Unlike most regionals around the state, the Great Bend meet will start its field events a 2 p.m. and track preliminary races at 5 p.m. to allow for completion of the field events."As a coach, and a ton of coaches agree, we just hate our kids running around between the long jump and back and forth, or whatever event they're in," Lashley said. "It's nice for them to be able to focus. For us as a host facility, it's easier for us. We don't have to wrangle a kid to start the final of the long or triple jump. We can just keep rolling with it. It's going to be a little blessing in disguise."The top four competitors from each event will advance to the KSHSAA State Track and Field Championships in Wichita the following week. Great Bend will be joined in the nine-team regional by the likes of Hays, Hutchinson, and two schools from both Goddard and Salina.

Great Bend High School selected for Class 5A track regional

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/2)

At 10:04 a.m. threats were reported at 561 S. Main Street in
Hoisington.

At 3 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 40 Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/2)

At 1:17 a.m. a report of hearing noises from outside her
residence was made at 2210 25th Street.

At 1:29 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2409 Cheyenne Dr.

At 5:29 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4200 Falcon Dr.

At 7:52 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 815 Maple
Street.

At 8:39 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3713 22nd
Street.

At 10 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 2304 Franklin
Street.

At 10:40 a.m. an accident was reported at 23rd
&amp; Lincoln.

At 2:59 p.m. fire assistance was needed at 3022 Broadway.

At 3:01 p.m. Gary Mick signed an NTA for a noise complaint
against the owners of Sarge’s Saloon at 2801 Main.

At 5:44 p.m. a burglary was reported at 3808 23rd
Street.

At 6:20 p.m. loud music from a vehicle was reported at 5808
16th Street Ter.

At 6:51 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2222 Forest
Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/2)Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 10:04 a.m. threats were reported at 561 S. Main Street in
Hoisington.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 40 Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/2)At 1:17 a.m. a report of hearing noises from outside her
residence was made at 2210 25th Street.Sick PersonAt 1:29 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2409 Cheyenne Dr.Chest PainAt 5:29 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 4200 Falcon Dr.Animal ComplaintAt 7:52 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 815 Maple
Street.Sick PersonAt 8:39 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3713 22nd
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 10 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 2304 Franklin
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:40 a.m. an accident was reported at 23rd
&amp; Lincoln.Structure FireAt 2:59 p.m. fire assistance was needed at 3022 Broadway.Noise ComplaintAt 3:01 p.m. Gary Mick signed an NTA for a noise complaint
against the owners of Sarge’s Saloon at 2801 Main.Burglary / In ProgressAt 5:44 p.m. a burglary was reported at 3808 23rd
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 6:20 p.m. loud music from a vehicle was reported at 5808
16th Street Ter.Structure FireAt 6:51 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2222 Forest
Avenue.

Cop Shop (4/2)

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

RELEASED: Marcus White on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Carrying of a Weapon, Driving Without a License, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/2RELEASED: Edward Bohnert on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Marcus White on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Carrying of a Weapon, Driving Without a License, and Illegal Vehicle Registration, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/2)

Last February, the Great Bend Police Department secured a $132,000
federal grant to purchase license plate recognition technology and cameras. The
Police Department was made aware that they would receive the same grant amount
this year, which will be released in September. 

Police Chief Steve Haulmark said
the technology has been helpful tracking criminals driving through town.


"We've had minor successes and also felony arrests," said Haulmark. "We've recovered about eight stolen vehicles and several stolen tags. It was used to locate wanted persons. It was used in an investigation for two trailers that were stolen in Great Bend and one was recovered in Wichita."

The funds will be used to renew the lease for the existing 12 cameras and add
eight more cameras for a period of 24 months. The Flock Safety technology also allows Great Bend to access cameras throughout the state and beyond.

"In the case of the stolen trailers, we were able to learn the suspect had been in town in the stolen vehicle like seven times," said Haulmark. "It helped pin down some things."

Great Bend positions the cameras at major passages in and out of town to catch
license plates.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663597952147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast February, the Great Bend Police Department secured a $132,000
federal grant to purchase license plate recognition technology and cameras. The
Police Department was made aware that they would receive the same grant amount
this year, which will be released in September. Police Chief Steve Haulmark said
the technology has been helpful tracking criminals driving through town.
"We've had minor successes and also felony arrests," said Haulmark. "We've recovered about eight stolen vehicles and several stolen tags. It was used to locate wanted persons. It was used in an investigation for two trailers that were stolen in Great Bend and one was recovered in Wichita."The funds will be used to renew the lease for the existing 12 cameras and add
eight more cameras for a period of 24 months. The Flock Safety technology also allows Great Bend to access cameras throughout the state and beyond."In the case of the stolen trailers, we were able to learn the suspect had been in town in the stolen vehicle like seven times," said Haulmark. "It helped pin down some things."Great Bend positions the cameras at major passages in and out of town to catch
license plates.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Police to add more license plate cameras

Today Sunny, with a high near 62. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 18 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Tonight Widespread frost after 5 a.m. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 30. North-northwest wind 8 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Thursday Widespread frost before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 65. North wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 36. Northeast wind around 8 mph becoming southeast after midnight.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47. Breezy.

Saturday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Windy.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 65. Breezy.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 38.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 64.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 62. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 18 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Tonight Widespread frost after 5 a.m. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 30. North-northwest wind 8 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Thursday Widespread frost before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 65. North wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 36. Northeast wind around 8 mph becoming southeast after midnight.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47. Breezy.Saturday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Windy.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 65. Breezy.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 38.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 64.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Clara Barton Hospital Foundation received a $5,000 contribution from Wilson State Bank for the 2024 Annual Benefit Event. Presenting the sponsorship check to Michelle Moshier, Executive Director, is Marsha Espinosa, Hoisington’s VP/Branch Manager, joined by Wilson Bank staff and Clara Barton Medical Center CEO/President Jay Tusten. Wilson State Bank’s generous Visionary Level Sponsorship will help upgrade a chemistry analyzer in the hospital’s laboratory.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712084128319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clara Barton Hospital Foundation received a $5,000 contribution from Wilson State Bank for the 2024 Annual Benefit Event. Presenting the sponsorship check to Michelle Moshier, Executive Director, is Marsha Espinosa, Hoisington’s VP/Branch Manager, joined by Wilson Bank staff and Clara Barton Medical Center CEO/President Jay Tusten. Wilson State Bank’s generous Visionary Level Sponsorship will help upgrade a chemistry analyzer in the hospital’s laboratory.”

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