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

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/60633e6d-1e8a-4c74-89e6-f76a6f1bded5">No more cell phones in Great Bend High School classrooms</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/87997cef-c1a5-4bd5-93c1-db17f937828d">Barton CC seeking to soften budget deficit with 2024 mill levy</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c14f427a-f4a8-443c-b8ed-b11615e3127e">Sunflower Recycling again accepting books and shiny corrugated cardboard</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576243404692.png" alt="USD 428 Great Bend revealed new policies on cell phone use during school." />
 <figcaption>USD 428 Great Bend revealed new policies on cell phone use during school.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/slxmaygj/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/60633e6d-1e8a-4c74-89e6-f76a6f1bded5">No more cell phones in Great Bend High School classrooms</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/87997cef-c1a5-4bd5-93c1-db17f937828d">Barton CC seeking to soften budget deficit with 2024 mill levy</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c14f427a-f4a8-443c-b8ed-b11615e3127e">Sunflower Recycling again accepting books and shiny corrugated cardboard</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The concrete crew has done the majority of their work already, and now
the turf crew has arrived to install new artificial turf at Hoisington High
School’s football field. The project is part of the $1.597 million replacement
of both the turf and track in Hoisington. USD 431 Superintendent Patrick Crowdis
said the asphalt team is expected to begin the track resurface the first week
of August. 
"It should take them two or three days to put the asphalt down," said Crowdis. "Whether or not they put the rubber down for the track at the exact same time will be up in the air. We should know as we get closer to the first week of August. If they are not able to complete the rubber at that time, that should not keep us from hosting events." 
ATG Sports Industries is the contractor for the Hoisington project and has told
the school district the entire project will be finished by the middle of
August. 
"We are also bringing in a crew to lay our asphalt out of Kansas City," said Crowdis. "It's a crew that ATG works with on a regular basis. We should be in pretty good shape in terms of having all of our surfaces ready for football games and activities that take place at the high school." 
USD 431 had to order new goal posts, which are on backorder, but Crowdis
said the posts should arrive before Hoisington’s first home football game on
Sept. 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689386240822.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe concrete crew has done the majority of their work already, and now
the turf crew has arrived to install new artificial turf at Hoisington High
School’s football field. The project is part of the $1.597 million replacement
of both the turf and track in Hoisington. USD 431 Superintendent Patrick Crowdis
said the asphalt team is expected to begin the track resurface the first week
of August. 
"It should take them two or three days to put the asphalt down," said Crowdis. "Whether or not they put the rubber down for the track at the exact same time will be up in the air. We should know as we get closer to the first week of August. If they are not able to complete the rubber at that time, that should not keep us from hosting events." 
ATG Sports Industries is the contractor for the Hoisington project and has told
the school district the entire project will be finished by the middle of
August. 
"We are also bringing in a crew to lay our asphalt out of Kansas City," said Crowdis. "It's a crew that ATG works with on a regular basis. We should be in pretty good shape in terms of having all of our surfaces ready for football games and activities that take place at the high school." 
USD 431 had to order new goal posts, which are on backorder, but Crowdis
said the posts should arrive before Hoisington’s first home football game on
Sept. 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

New turf install underway at Hoisington HS

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

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 dogs 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 dog, 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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MTQuNzk2NzkwMzEifQ.jhYhvcVomcAiqbbGr-SNUdvC0_XnFythNpRDl0CG4mg/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;

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

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

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

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:&nbsp;

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

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE0Ljc5Njc5MDMxIn0.OGPcPwRqnYnoRFAzbxROcKBetHB7jLH9VXX_AbtGqoQ/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE0Ljc5Njc5MDMxIn0.0lDLeQ3Jyw_A4uVv2jTBA-LMmEJv4PxzgPocBQLMGYw/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">interactive story</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 update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;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 dogs 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 dog, 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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MTQuNzk2NzkwMzEifQ.jhYhvcVomcAiqbbGr-SNUdvC0_XnFythNpRDl0CG4mg/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active Advisories&nbsp;Warning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County&nbsp;</li><li>Lovewell Lake (Reservoir), Jewell County&nbsp;</li><li>South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County (Added July 14)</li>
 </ul>Watch<ul>
 <li>Augusta Santa Fe Lake, Butler County</li><li>Hidden Woods Park Pond (Lenexa), Johnson County (Added July 14)</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County (Added July 14)</li><li>North Park Lake (Bonner Springs), Wyandotte County (Added July 14)</li><li>Strowbridge Reservoir (Carbondale East Lake), Osage County</li>
 </ul>Lifted<ul>
 <li>Dorner Park Lake, Sedgwick County (Lifted July 14)</li><li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County (Lifted July 14)</li><li>Webster Lake (Reservoir), Rooks County (Lifted July 14)</li>
 </ul>The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist. &nbsp;<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. &nbsp;Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<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:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.&nbsp;</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels&nbsp;below&nbsp;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.&nbsp;For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE0Ljc5Njc5MDMxIn0.OGPcPwRqnYnoRFAzbxROcKBetHB7jLH9VXX_AbtGqoQ/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE0Ljc5Njc5MDMxIn0.0lDLeQ3Jyw_A4uVv2jTBA-LMmEJv4PxzgPocBQLMGYw/s/1305943094/br/222698116338-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

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

Hear this month's Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and Sunflower Diversified Services' early education representatives. The show aired July 12, 2023.

The Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each 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 Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and Sunflower Diversified Services' early education representatives. The show aired July 12, 2023.<div><iframe title="Sunflower Diversified Services 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=pqepm-1456287-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 Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Sunflower Diversified early education reps

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In July 2022, Barton County Health Department Director Karen Winkelman asked the Kansas Department of Health Environment (KDHE) if her office could use $50,000 from an Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) grant toward a remodel. The KDHE provided an additional $10,000 in grant money for the remodel, but that still left the health department roughly $11,000 short on the project. Winkelman presented some good news to the Barton County Commission Tuesday morning.

"(KDHE) agreed to fund the additional $10,928," she said. "So at this time, I would like to say that the full project was supported by grant funds, and would like to ask for your approval to pay that all with grant funds."

The remodel included combining two bathrooms into one larger bathroom that includes a shower and washer and dryer for decontamination. The project also adjusted a hallway to allow for more private meetings. Winkelman said the decontamination room has been quite useful.

"This last situation we had, we had other entities," she told the commission. "We had the city of Great Bend, we had the city administrator there, we had several people. Someone from the police department came and used the decon area to shower and also do their laundry there so they did not have to take it home. I feel very fortunate we can open that space up to our partners, also."

Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the county would be getting $71,000 of work for $11,000 when the commission approved using county dollars to cover the remainder last November. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689103221323.jpeg" alt="Two bathrooms were converted to one, and a shower and washer and dryer were added to allow Barton County Health Department staff to decontaminate before going home or resuming work." />
 <figcaption>Two bathrooms were converted to one, and a shower and washer and dryer were added to allow Barton County Health Department staff to decontaminate before going home or resuming work.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn July 2022, Barton County Health Department Director Karen Winkelman asked the Kansas Department of Health Environment (KDHE) if her office could use $50,000 from an Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) grant toward a remodel. The KDHE provided an additional $10,000 in grant money for the remodel, but that still left the health department roughly $11,000 short on the project. Winkelman presented some good news to the Barton County Commission Tuesday morning."(KDHE) agreed to fund the additional $10,928," she said. "So at this time, I would like to say that the full project was supported by grant funds, and would like to ask for your approval to pay that all with grant funds."The remodel included combining two bathrooms into one larger bathroom that includes a shower and washer and dryer for decontamination. The project also adjusted a hallway to allow for more private meetings. Winkelman said the decontamination room has been quite useful."This last situation we had, we had other entities," she told the commission. "We had the city of Great Bend, we had the city administrator there, we had several people. Someone from the police department came and used the decon area to shower and also do their laundry there so they did not have to take it home. I feel very fortunate we can open that space up to our partners, also."Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson emphasized the county would be getting $71,000 of work for $11,000 when the commission approved using county dollars to cover the remainder last November.

KDHE covers remainder of cost on Barton Co. Health Dept. remodel

Risers are a big part of musical education. Especially for parents of kids in the back row. Monday evening, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the purchase of six sets of risers for each Great Bend elementary school, as well as for Great Bend High School. Assistant Superintendent John Popp explained the need.

"I believe the current risers we use are in the order of 14 or 15 years old," he said. "They lay down, then you pull them up and they latch in place. If that latch comes loose, it would crash down and hurt a lot of little children. We're starting to have concerns about them being safe."

The district purchased 30 three-step, six-foot risers and back rails from Wenger Corporation for $47,929.80, and the high school risers carry a price tag of $15,278.60, for a total cost of $63,208.40. Popp and Assistant Superintendent JoAnn Blevins discussed a move of elementary concerts to Great Bend High School due to space concerns and the pandemic.

"Especially through the COVID time we were moving everything to the high school," Popp said. "We're starting to explore potentially having more at the elementary, but there's still the need to practice on risers for the kiddos even if we do have the program at the high school."

Enrollment for the upcoming school year is Aug. 2-3, and grades K-6 begin school on Aug. 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639088924341.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostRisers are a big part of musical education. Especially for parents of kids in the back row. Monday evening, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the purchase of six sets of risers for each Great Bend elementary school, as well as for Great Bend High School. Assistant Superintendent John Popp explained the need."I believe the current risers we use are in the order of 14 or 15 years old," he said. "They lay down, then you pull them up and they latch in place. If that latch comes loose, it would crash down and hurt a lot of little children. We're starting to have concerns about them being safe."The district purchased 30 three-step, six-foot risers and back rails from Wenger Corporation for $47,929.80, and the high school risers carry a price tag of $15,278.60, for a total cost of $63,208.40. Popp and Assistant Superintendent JoAnn Blevins discussed a move of elementary concerts to Great Bend High School due to space concerns and the pandemic."Especially through the COVID time we were moving everything to the high school," Popp said. "We're starting to explore potentially having more at the elementary, but there's still the need to practice on risers for the kiddos even if we do have the program at the high school."Enrollment for the upcoming school year is Aug. 2-3, and grades K-6 begin school on Aug. 23.

New risers on the way for Great Bend elementary schools, GBHS

Sunflower Diversified Service's Recycling Center took a hit earlier this year when the Sonoco mill in Hutchinson was unexpectedly closed down. The shutdown impacted various recycling centers in the area, which could no longer take non-corrugated cardboard. Sunflower Director of Recycling and Production Mandy Grizzell said the facility can once again accept books and slick corrugated cardboard.

"Slick corrugated is like your diaper boxes, your box chip boxes," she said. "Anything that's shiny with the corrugated that has the bubble ripples inside your cardboard."

Sunflower ships its recyclable materials to Illinois-based Quincy Recycling, which handles materials from Colorado to the Appalachian Mountains. There is still no timeline when that facility will once again accept non-corrugated cardboard like cereal boxes and beverage containers.

"We are actually with the same vendor," said Grizzell. "We just made some more communications and some more clarifications on items to make it more convenient for our customers."

A full list of acceptable items for recycling can be found <a href="https://ac7f4bd5-8bb7-4d2f-9e19-b1205db0ade9.filesusr.com/ugd/854ce0_d4288c278f4745408cd545848b811061.pdf">HERE</a>.. The facility is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682005002829.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Mandy Grizzell and Harold Alexander prepare recyclables for baling at Sunflower Recycling. Grizzell is the director of production and recycling; Alexander is a client at Sunflower. " />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Mandy Grizzell and Harold Alexander prepare recyclables for baling at Sunflower Recycling. Grizzell is the director of production and recycling; Alexander is a client at Sunflower. </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSunflower Diversified Service's Recycling Center took a hit earlier this year when the Sonoco mill in Hutchinson was unexpectedly closed down. The shutdown impacted various recycling centers in the area, which could no longer take non-corrugated cardboard. Sunflower Director of Recycling and Production Mandy Grizzell said the facility can once again accept books and slick corrugated cardboard."Slick corrugated is like your diaper boxes, your box chip boxes," she said. "Anything that's shiny with the corrugated that has the bubble ripples inside your cardboard."Sunflower ships its recyclable materials to Illinois-based Quincy Recycling, which handles materials from Colorado to the Appalachian Mountains. There is still no timeline when that facility will once again accept non-corrugated cardboard like cereal boxes and beverage containers."We are actually with the same vendor," said Grizzell. "We just made some more communications and some more clarifications on items to make it more convenient for our customers."A full list of acceptable items for recycling can be found <a href="https://ac7f4bd5-8bb7-4d2f-9e19-b1205db0ade9.filesusr.com/ugd/854ce0_d4288c278f4745408cd545848b811061.pdf">HERE</a>.. The facility is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Sunflower Recycling again accepting books and shiny corrugated cardboard

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Melinda Merrill on&nbsp;Wilson's Czech Festival.

For more information about the 2023 Czech Fest, including a full calendar of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://wilsonczechfest.com/">wilsonczechfest.com.</a>

-The original version of this identified Melinda Merrill as Director of the Czech Festival.&nbsp; The festival has wonderful volunteer committee that is co-chaired by Susan Kriley and Kate Schiermeyer. 

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1JfYJm30qLA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Melinda Merrill on&nbsp;Wilson's Czech Festival.For more information about the 2023 Czech Fest, including a full calendar of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://wilsonczechfest.com/">wilsonczechfest.com.</a>-The original version of this identified Melinda Merrill as Director of the Czech Festival.&nbsp; The festival has wonderful volunteer committee that is co-chaired by Susan Kriley and Kate Schiermeyer.

Correction: Forward Ever: Melinda Merrill on Wilson's Czech Fest 

T &amp; L Fireworks, a provider of fireworks in central Kansas, marked the commencement of their fireworks season with a ribbon cutting ceremony in collaboration with the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. This event took place on June 27, marking the beginning of their 53rd year in business.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by family members, friends and employees of T &amp; L Fireworks, who all gathered to celebrate the milestone achievement. Independence Day has just concluded, and T &amp; L Fireworks experienced yet another successful season, offering a range of fireworks products to their customers.&nbsp;

Co-Managers Christy Kuhn and Kathy Kaiser expressed their excitement about the season's launch, stating, "We are thrilled to commemorate our 53rd year serving Central Kansas with three generations of the Barnes family. Our mission remains steadfast in providing good quality fireworks at affordable prices, catering to everyone's needs. We are immensely proud of the reputation we have built and the enduring support from our dedicated staff and customers. We are here today and will be here tomorrow, continuing to serve our beloved communities."

T &amp; L Fireworks operates three air-conditioned locations, open from June 27 to July 4. The main location, spanning 7,500 square feet, can be found at 159 North 281 HWY, just 1/2 mile North of 24th &amp; Main St. in Great Bend. Additionally, customers can visit the West 10th location at 5215 West 10th St. Great Bend, located just West of the old Playa Azul. T &amp; L Fireworks also serves Larned and surrounding counties at 718 Fort Larned Ave., with the assistance of members of First Christian Church.&nbsp;

About T &amp; L Fireworks: T &amp; L Fireworks is a locally owned and operated business serving Central Kansas for over 53 years. T &amp; L Fireworks remains a destination for fireworks in Great Bend and Larned areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689275121119.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>T &amp; L Fireworks, a provider of fireworks in central Kansas, marked the commencement of their fireworks season with a ribbon cutting ceremony in collaboration with the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. This event took place on June 27, marking the beginning of their 53rd year in business.The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by family members, friends and employees of T &amp; L Fireworks, who all gathered to celebrate the milestone achievement. Independence Day has just concluded, and T &amp; L Fireworks experienced yet another successful season, offering a range of fireworks products to their customers.&nbsp;Co-Managers Christy Kuhn and Kathy Kaiser expressed their excitement about the season's launch, stating, "We are thrilled to commemorate our 53rd year serving Central Kansas with three generations of the Barnes family. Our mission remains steadfast in providing good quality fireworks at affordable prices, catering to everyone's needs. We are immensely proud of the reputation we have built and the enduring support from our dedicated staff and customers. We are here today and will be here tomorrow, continuing to serve our beloved communities."T &amp; L Fireworks operates three air-conditioned locations, open from June 27 to July 4. The main location, spanning 7,500 square feet, can be found at 159 North 281 HWY, just 1/2 mile North of 24th &amp; Main St. in Great Bend. Additionally, customers can visit the West 10th location at 5215 West 10th St. Great Bend, located just West of the old Playa Azul. T &amp; L Fireworks also serves Larned and surrounding counties at 718 Fort Larned Ave., with the assistance of members of First Christian Church.&nbsp;About T &amp; L Fireworks: T &amp; L Fireworks is a locally owned and operated business serving Central Kansas for over 53 years. T &amp; L Fireworks remains a destination for fireworks in Great Bend and Larned areas.

T & L Fireworks celebrated 53rd year in Great Bend area

This is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Northwest Kansas has been struggling to get into a harvest rhythm. With high humidity and scattered showers, combines can’t begin rolling until mid-afternoon in most cases. Overall, harvest is getting started about 10 days to two weeks later than normal. Multiple thunderstorms have come through the area, bringing with them large hail and causing significant losses in wheat fields that are just teetering on being dry enough to harvest.

Lisa Schemm from Sharon Springs reports that their harvest started on July 4, about 10 days later than normal. They still have about six days of harvest left when fields dry out, but they’ve been struggling with high moisture and finding fields that are ready.&nbsp;

“This has been one of the latest harvests to get started,” Schemm said, noting it will be, by far, the latest to finish.

Yields have ranged from 30 bushels per acre on fields with hail damage to 55 bushels per acre on dryland to 87 bushels per acre on irrigated land. Test weights have held steady at 60 to 61 pounds, for now. Protein is 12 percent and better.

The Schemm family is fighting weeds and suckerheads, which have been continuing to stall their harvest. Their harvest crew is test cutting several fields but finding moisture is still too high. While annual rainfall averages 18 to 20 inches in their area, they have received all of that average rainfall since mid-May. However, when it comes as quickly as it has, the soils can’t absorb it and benefit as much as they would if it came a little at a time.

Schemm says they planted a little later than others in the area, which may be contributing to their late harvest, but mostly it is caused by the late suckerheads, which are now even taller than the rest of the field, and the high humidity in the area. Their custom harvest crew is strung out across Kansas, with some in Ulysses and others in Sharon Springs. But both crews are struggling to find wheat that’s dry enough to cut. They are scheduled to move on to Montana at the end of next week.

“Why would harvesters want to stay here and wait for it to dry out when there’s good wheat to cut in Montana?” Schemm asked. Even their best wheat has five-foot tall kochia to go along with it. Farmers are having a hard time getting the weeds under control.

In Dodge City, Mike Schmidt, operations manager for Pride Ag Resources, reports harvest started a week late on June 20, but the first big day of cutting was June 26. They received a rain on July 4 and ever since then, harvest has been slow to pick up the pace.&nbsp;

Proteins have been all over the board, reaching as low as 7 to 11 percent, and as high as 14 percent. Test weights started out strong, reaching as high as 63 to 64 pounds per bushel; however, as harvest progresses, the test weights have gone down and they are now seeing test weights around 59 to 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;

Back in April around Easter, the area received rain in the northern portion of their territory. This saved some fields and got the crop over the hump to potentially be harvested. The southern half was not as fortunate and missed those rain events.&nbsp;

Some farmers in the area have had to control weeds, which not only pushes off harvest, but is yet another costly input to apply to a very short crop.&nbsp;

Although they have not reached Schmidt’s projection yet, he anticipates seeing a third of the wheat they usually bring in. It is still early yet, however, since there are lots of acres left to be cut.&nbsp;

Wheat that comes into the Dodge City facility usually goes to the gulf for export, but not currently. Instead, this wheat will be loaded onto trains to either go to Wichita mills, terminals or off to California.&nbsp;

In North Central Kansas, Mike Jordan from Mitchell County reports that they finished up their harvest on July 4.

“We were some of the last to finish; everybody around us was done around the 4 and 5 of July,” he explained. Jordan says that about one-third of all the fields in his area were abandoned due to thin and weedy wheat. They did not see any hail damage on their crop.&nbsp;

Jordan reports that he was getting good proteins on his wheat, ranging from 13 to 16 percent. They sacrificed yields for this high protein; however, those being just about 12 bushels per acre. His whole farm average landed in the teens this year, unable to pull through the abnormal weather and the effects of these changing patterns.&nbsp;

All of Jordan’s fields are no-till, and he said that some in the area have had continuous wheat yielding in the 30’s, with some even breaking 40 bushels per acre.

“If you wanted to walk across the fields stepping on the wheat plants along the way, you would be doing a lot of jumping,” Jordan notes. In Jordan’s years of farming, he says that he hasn’t experienced a wheat crop this bad since 1989.

“We are really just living rain to rain at this point,” he laments. He continues to say that, although their wheat crop struggled, there is corn in the area that could turn out well. Jordan is quick to acknowledge that, despite this discouraging wheat crop, there is hope for this year for surrounding farmers.

The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gCMxpSLsI3KM8StiA8-l9PZM_ugNNiUJaIss_NU1PoPPABF2r8xPoO7_Oa7vHDQztLM7D__UAOzeREBVKEfew9j2kJ34xLA4ZQXRO_toAlAV&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gAiN2xqCmdyzpMr0gVDXTVOiAcmej9_1G0G3XG942Ps4nXnrQ30CAQXY5KmZvRzyL5Gtesttc45h1Y9Hr8a-deEwOyXtAgEEEObc4Y8VJMay&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gADsKq_abayykAwss3G3qW5d10yE1GCaadcHFhAAijMULJBpq0x1h8l01zKAdxaugrLySHtT0-SZaxcFsm4_yKw1xkldnv17twxdQkirdDCa&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689326498563.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Northwest Kansas has been struggling to get into a harvest rhythm. With high humidity and scattered showers, combines can’t begin rolling until mid-afternoon in most cases. Overall, harvest is getting started about 10 days to two weeks later than normal. Multiple thunderstorms have come through the area, bringing with them large hail and causing significant losses in wheat fields that are just teetering on being dry enough to harvest.Lisa Schemm from Sharon Springs reports that their harvest started on July 4, about 10 days later than normal. They still have about six days of harvest left when fields dry out, but they’ve been struggling with high moisture and finding fields that are ready.&nbsp;“This has been one of the latest harvests to get started,” Schemm said, noting it will be, by far, the latest to finish.Yields have ranged from 30 bushels per acre on fields with hail damage to 55 bushels per acre on dryland to 87 bushels per acre on irrigated land. Test weights have held steady at 60 to 61 pounds, for now. Protein is 12 percent and better.The Schemm family is fighting weeds and suckerheads, which have been continuing to stall their harvest. Their harvest crew is test cutting several fields but finding moisture is still too high. While annual rainfall averages 18 to 20 inches in their area, they have received all of that average rainfall since mid-May. However, when it comes as quickly as it has, the soils can’t absorb it and benefit as much as they would if it came a little at a time.Schemm says they planted a little later than others in the area, which may be contributing to their late harvest, but mostly it is caused by the late suckerheads, which are now even taller than the rest of the field, and the high humidity in the area. Their custom harvest crew is strung out across Kansas, with some in Ulysses and others in Sharon Springs. But both crews are struggling to find wheat that’s dry enough to cut. They are scheduled to move on to Montana at the end of next week.“Why would harvesters want to stay here and wait for it to dry out when there’s good wheat to cut in Montana?” Schemm asked. Even their best wheat has five-foot tall kochia to go along with it. Farmers are having a hard time getting the weeds under control.In Dodge City, Mike Schmidt, operations manager for Pride Ag Resources, reports harvest started a week late on June 20, but the first big day of cutting was June 26. They received a rain on July 4 and ever since then, harvest has been slow to pick up the pace.&nbsp;Proteins have been all over the board, reaching as low as 7 to 11 percent, and as high as 14 percent. Test weights started out strong, reaching as high as 63 to 64 pounds per bushel; however, as harvest progresses, the test weights have gone down and they are now seeing test weights around 59 to 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;Back in April around Easter, the area received rain in the northern portion of their territory. This saved some fields and got the crop over the hump to potentially be harvested. The southern half was not as fortunate and missed those rain events.&nbsp;Some farmers in the area have had to control weeds, which not only pushes off harvest, but is yet another costly input to apply to a very short crop.&nbsp;Although they have not reached Schmidt’s projection yet, he anticipates seeing a third of the wheat they usually bring in. It is still early yet, however, since there are lots of acres left to be cut.&nbsp;Wheat that comes into the Dodge City facility usually goes to the gulf for export, but not currently. Instead, this wheat will be loaded onto trains to either go to Wichita mills, terminals or off to California.&nbsp;In North Central Kansas, Mike Jordan from Mitchell County reports that they finished up their harvest on July 4.“We were some of the last to finish; everybody around us was done around the 4 and 5 of July,” he explained. Jordan says that about one-third of all the fields in his area were abandoned due to thin and weedy wheat. They did not see any hail damage on their crop.&nbsp;Jordan reports that he was getting good proteins on his wheat, ranging from 13 to 16 percent. They sacrificed yields for this high protein; however, those being just about 12 bushels per acre. His whole farm average landed in the teens this year, unable to pull through the abnormal weather and the effects of these changing patterns.&nbsp;All of Jordan’s fields are no-till, and he said that some in the area have had continuous wheat yielding in the 30’s, with some even breaking 40 bushels per acre.“If you wanted to walk across the fields stepping on the wheat plants along the way, you would be doing a lot of jumping,” Jordan notes. In Jordan’s years of farming, he says that he hasn’t experienced a wheat crop this bad since 1989.“We are really just living rain to rain at this point,” he laments. He continues to say that, although their wheat crop struggled, there is corn in the area that could turn out well. Jordan is quick to acknowledge that, despite this discouraging wheat crop, there is hope for this year for surrounding farmers.The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gCMxpSLsI3KM8StiA8-l9PZM_ugNNiUJaIss_NU1PoPPABF2r8xPoO7_Oa7vHDQztLM7D__UAOzeREBVKEfew9j2kJ34xLA4ZQXRO_toAlAV&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gAiN2xqCmdyzpMr0gVDXTVOiAcmej9_1G0G3XG942Ps4nXnrQ30CAQXY5KmZvRzyL5Gtesttc45h1Y9Hr8a-deEwOyXtAgEEEObc4Y8VJMay&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gADsKq_abayykAwss3G3qW5d10yE1GCaadcHFhAAijMULJBpq0x1h8l01zKAdxaugrLySHtT0-SZaxcFsm4_yKw1xkldnv17twxdQkirdDCa&amp;c=smcp3ZgqdV2EvbyIZwkQjwTQGzYsWN6KXuwJ5UkTS4MaBiFVyAZiEQ==&amp;ch=GRDztaB0vzRehv5lIRYDzyfC8b8nc-rrUkzzE1DqR6zFmlX38CVkhQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 11, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

Armed with a quarter-cent sales tax, the City of Great Bend has plans
established for their 2024 fiscal year street repairs. The designated sales tax
finances the costs of construction, reconstruction and maintaining public
streets. This year’s balance is $1.3 million and includes chip and seal
projects with $950,000 for residential streets. 

Public Works Director Jason
Cauley said one of the focuses for the 2024 repairs includes the 281 Bypass. "After five years of the Bypass being done, it never got capped," said Cauley. "We're going to look at that before it completely falls apart. I don't know if you've been down the Bypass lately but it's in pretty bad shape. That's like $600,000 just to do that by itself." 
Cauley added other 2024 repairs will include a section of Harrison Street and 24th
Street, in front of the closed Stoneridge Country Club. 
This year’s projects were the reconstruction of McKinley as well as edge mill
and overlay in the southeast part of town.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689099130706.jpeg" alt="The 281 Bypass is scheduled to receive repairs in Great Bend's 2024 fiscal year budget." />
 <figcaption>The 281 Bypass is scheduled to receive repairs in Great Bend's 2024 fiscal year budget.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostArmed with a quarter-cent sales tax, the City of Great Bend has plans
established for their 2024 fiscal year street repairs. The designated sales tax
finances the costs of construction, reconstruction and maintaining public
streets. This year’s balance is $1.3 million and includes chip and seal
projects with $950,000 for residential streets. Public Works Director Jason
Cauley said one of the focuses for the 2024 repairs includes the 281 Bypass. "After five years of the Bypass being done, it never got capped," said Cauley. "We're going to look at that before it completely falls apart. I don't know if you've been down the Bypass lately but it's in pretty bad shape. That's like $600,000 just to do that by itself." 
Cauley added other 2024 repairs will include a section of Harrison Street and 24th
Street, in front of the closed Stoneridge Country Club. 
This year’s projects were the reconstruction of McKinley as well as edge mill
and overlay in the southeast part of town.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bypass included in 2024 Great Bend street repairs

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/13) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 1544 SE 50 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/13) 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 10:20 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2108 26th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:30 a.m. Jill Bauer reported a parking complaint at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Battery 
 
At 11:37 a.m. a report of batter was made at 8823 4th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:33 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th &amp; McKinley. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 1:52 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at the old JC Penney building. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:54 p.m. John Grauer reported a hit-and-run accident at 5225 Eisenhower. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 7:42 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at Lakin &amp; Morphy. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 7:48 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Stalking 
 
At 8:18 p.m. a report of stalking was made at 2717 28th Street. 
 
Domestic 
 
At 9 p.m. a domestic disturbance was reported at 3713 22nd Street.
Ethan Johnson was arrested for battery DV. Phillip Markum served NTA for
battery DV. 
 
Fire 
 
At 11:08 p.m. a burn pit still on fire was reported at 1438 24th
Street. 
 
Prowler 
 
At 11:29 p.m. a prowler was reported at 806 Holland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/13) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 1544 SE 50 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/13) 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 10:20 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2108 26th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:30 a.m. Jill Bauer reported a parking complaint at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Battery 
 
At 11:37 a.m. a report of batter was made at 8823 4th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:33 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th &amp; McKinley. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 1:52 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at the old JC Penney building. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:54 p.m. John Grauer reported a hit-and-run accident at 5225 Eisenhower. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 7:42 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at Lakin &amp; Morphy. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 7:48 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Stalking 
 
At 8:18 p.m. a report of stalking was made at 2717 28th Street. 
 
Domestic 
 
At 9 p.m. a domestic disturbance was reported at 3713 22nd Street.
Ethan Johnson was arrested for battery DV. Phillip Markum served NTA for
battery DV. 
 
Fire 
 
At 11:08 p.m. a burn pit still on fire was reported at 1438 24th
Street. 
 
Prowler 
 
At 11:29 p.m. a prowler was reported at 806 Holland.

Cop Shop (7/13)

7/13 BOOKED: Luis Cerna-Gonzalez on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hour OR.

BOOKED: Dayon Koett on Great Bend District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, No Drug Tax Stamp, Domestic Battery, and Criminal Damage, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Ethan Johnson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S, or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: James Skinner on Sedgwick County District Court warrant.

RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Dayon Koett on Great Bend District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, No Drug Tax Stamp, Domestic Battery, and Criminal Damage, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/13 BOOKED: Luis Cerna-Gonzalez on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hour OR.BOOKED: Dayon Koett on Great Bend District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, No Drug Tax Stamp, Domestic Battery, and Criminal Damage, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Ethan Johnson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S, or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: James Skinner on Sedgwick County District Court warrant.RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Dayon Koett on Great Bend District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, No Drug Tax Stamp, Domestic Battery, and Criminal Damage, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/13)

The City of Great Bend has a list of quality of life projects they want
to pursue in the 2024 fiscal year. The Great Bend City Council already approved
a $677,222 splash pad to be installed at Veterans Memorial Park by next May and
Eldridge Fencing should finish the fencing around the revamped skate park
within a week. 

Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said design services
for improvements at Brit Spaugh Park will be presented to the council at next
Monday’s meeting. "Right now, the design services are coming in just over $84,000," said Burns. "Those bids were all over the board. I think our high bid was $190,000, so I think we're getting a pretty good price for where we're at currently. The low bid was BG Consultants...I'm pretty excited about them." 
BG Consultants is handling the more than $830,000 water service improvement to
the Kansas Army National Guard Armory at the airport. 
The nearly $2 million project at Brit Spaugh Park will include an outdoor
basketball court, pickleball courts, mini soccer pitches, playground and a
restroom facility on the south side of the park.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ce97a77d-badd-4d20-883c-d37796bf27d3">RELATED STORY: Great Bend reveals design of Brit Spaugh Park overhaul </a> 
The city will also try to finish the lighting improvement around the walking
path at Vets Park for $75,000 and an additional area for small dogs at the dog
park. 
The .15% quality of life sales tax is expected to generate $635,000 in the 2024
budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677044296626.jpeg" alt="Rendering of improvements for the south side of Brit Spaugh Park in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Rendering of improvements for the south side of Brit Spaugh Park in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend has a list of quality of life projects they want
to pursue in the 2024 fiscal year. The Great Bend City Council already approved
a $677,222 splash pad to be installed at Veterans Memorial Park by next May and
Eldridge Fencing should finish the fencing around the revamped skate park
within a week. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said design services
for improvements at Brit Spaugh Park will be presented to the council at next
Monday’s meeting. "Right now, the design services are coming in just over $84,000," said Burns. "Those bids were all over the board. I think our high bid was $190,000, so I think we're getting a pretty good price for where we're at currently. The low bid was BG Consultants...I'm pretty excited about them." 
BG Consultants is handling the more than $830,000 water service improvement to
the Kansas Army National Guard Armory at the airport. 
The nearly $2 million project at Brit Spaugh Park will include an outdoor
basketball court, pickleball courts, mini soccer pitches, playground and a
restroom facility on the south side of the park.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ce97a77d-badd-4d20-883c-d37796bf27d3">RELATED STORY: Great Bend reveals design of Brit Spaugh Park overhaul </a> 
The city will also try to finish the lighting improvement around the walking
path at Vets Park for $75,000 and an additional area for small dogs at the dog
park. 
The .15% quality of life sales tax is expected to generate $635,000 in the 2024
budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Progress on Great Bend’s quality of life projects for 2024

Today A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly after 3 p.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. East-southeast wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Tonight A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly before 9 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. North wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 90. North-northwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. East wind 6 to 8 mph becoming southwest after midnight.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 8 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Monday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 96.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Tuesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.

Wednesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689333767839.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Today A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly after 3 p.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. East-southeast wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Tonight A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly before 9 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. North wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 90. North-northwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. East wind 6 to 8 mph becoming southwest after midnight.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 8 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.Monday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 96.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.Tuesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.Wednesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Clerk Shawna Schafer that aired July 12, 2023.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday 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 week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Clerk Shawna Schafer that aired July 12, 2023.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend City Clerk Shawna Schafer" 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=cgfy2-1456266-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 City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend City Clerk Shawna Schafer

The Barton Community College Booster Club 11th Annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for Aug. 4 at Lake Barton Golf Club.

The day will begin with announcements at 12:45 p.m. and a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The tournament will include hole prizes, silent auction, raffle and barbeque. The cost is $125 per person with a four-person team. The Booster Club is also seeking $100 hole sponsorships.

The proceeds will benefit Cougar student athletes.

Find out more at <a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/information/boosterclub/2324/2023_Cougar_Open.pdf">bartonsports.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689196690347.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College Booster Club 11th Annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for Aug. 4 at Lake Barton Golf Club.The day will begin with announcements at 12:45 p.m. and a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The tournament will include hole prizes, silent auction, raffle and barbeque. The cost is $125 per person with a four-person team. The Booster Club is also seeking $100 hole sponsorships.The proceeds will benefit Cougar student athletes.Find out more at <a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/information/boosterclub/2324/2023_Cougar_Open.pdf">bartonsports.com</a>.

Sign up for Cougar Booster Club golf tournament

Probably the last thing most gardeners are thinking of now is planting vegetables. However, fall gardens will often produce higher quality, tastier cool-season crops as the vegetables mature during cooler, less stressful temperatures.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Plant slightly deeper than you would in the spring so the seed stays cooler and the soil around the seed stays moist longer. Plant more thickly and thin later. The plants may need to be protected from rabbits through the use of fencing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Don't worry about fertilizing before planting as there will be enough left over from the spring crops to provide for those grown in the fall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Following is a "calendar" of what to do when.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mid-July:&nbsp;Plant potatoes if you can find seed stock or have saved back seed potatoes.&nbsp; Do not use freshly dug potatoes as they have a built-in dormancy that will prevent growth.&nbsp; Also, grocery store potatoes are often treated so they don't sprout.

Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can be started from seed at this time.&nbsp; Choose a protected place where the soil can be kept moist and rabbits will not bother them.&nbsp; This will not be where they will grow the entire season but these crops will be transplanted about mid-August.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Late July:&nbsp;Seed beets, carrots and beans.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Late July to Early August:&nbsp;Seed spinach and long-season maturing lettuce.&nbsp; Leaf lettuce will be seeded later.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Second Week of August:&nbsp;Transplant cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower to their final location.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mid to Late August:&nbsp;Seed radishes and leaf lettuce.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No need to fertilize before planting.&nbsp; Sidedress two weeks after transplanting or four weeks after sowing seed by applying 2 tablespoons of a 16-0-0 or 1 tablespoon of a 27-3-3, 30-3-4 fertilizer, or something similar per plant.&nbsp; You may also use a liquid fertilizer such as Schultz, Peters, Miracle-Gro or Rapid Gro according to label directions.&nbsp; It would be a good idea to wash off the leaves with clean water to prevent burn from the fertilizer.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Watering must occur more frequently because seed should not be allowed to dry out. Overhead watering often causes soil to crust, making it more difficult for young, tender plants to emerge.&nbsp; Prevent this by applying a light sprinkling of peat moss, vermiculite or compost directly over the row after seeding. Even better, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation right next to the row to allow water to slowly seep into the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Probably the last thing most gardeners are thinking of now is planting vegetables. However, fall gardens will often produce higher quality, tastier cool-season crops as the vegetables mature during cooler, less stressful temperatures.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Plant slightly deeper than you would in the spring so the seed stays cooler and the soil around the seed stays moist longer. Plant more thickly and thin later. The plants may need to be protected from rabbits through the use of fencing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Don't worry about fertilizing before planting as there will be enough left over from the spring crops to provide for those grown in the fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Following is a "calendar" of what to do when.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mid-July:&nbsp;Plant potatoes if you can find seed stock or have saved back seed potatoes.&nbsp; Do not use freshly dug potatoes as they have a built-in dormancy that will prevent growth.&nbsp; Also, grocery store potatoes are often treated so they don't sprout.Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can be started from seed at this time.&nbsp; Choose a protected place where the soil can be kept moist and rabbits will not bother them.&nbsp; This will not be where they will grow the entire season but these crops will be transplanted about mid-August.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Late July:&nbsp;Seed beets, carrots and beans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Late July to Early August:&nbsp;Seed spinach and long-season maturing lettuce.&nbsp; Leaf lettuce will be seeded later.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Second Week of August:&nbsp;Transplant cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower to their final location.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mid to Late August:&nbsp;Seed radishes and leaf lettuce.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No need to fertilize before planting.&nbsp; Sidedress two weeks after transplanting or four weeks after sowing seed by applying 2 tablespoons of a 16-0-0 or 1 tablespoon of a 27-3-3, 30-3-4 fertilizer, or something similar per plant.&nbsp; You may also use a liquid fertilizer such as Schultz, Peters, Miracle-Gro or Rapid Gro according to label directions.&nbsp; It would be a good idea to wash off the leaves with clean water to prevent burn from the fertilizer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Watering must occur more frequently because seed should not be allowed to dry out. Overhead watering often causes soil to crust, making it more difficult for young, tender plants to emerge.&nbsp; Prevent this by applying a light sprinkling of peat moss, vermiculite or compost directly over the row after seeding. Even better, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation right next to the row to allow water to slowly seep into the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;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

BOOR: Fall gardens

School boards across the state are making many decisions with annual appointments and other housekeeping duties. Monday night, the USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education voted against a state recommendation to increase lunch prices and keep them the same for all students. Superintendent Patrick Crowdis said the district has approximately $182,000 in its food service account with current pricing.

"That is over three months worth of expenses," he said. "We averaged around $55,000 that we pay to Opaa! each month. The state actually doesn't want us to carry any more than that. If you would want to keep those prices the same, I think that would be justifiable."

Reduced lunches are set by the state with breakfast costing $0.30 and lunch at $0.40. The current breakfast price for all students is $2.00, and the board voted to lower that to $1.95. Student lunch prices range from $2.60 to $2.85, and the proposal was to raise that price by as much as $0.10. Board President Dean Stoskopf was against the increase.

"In the past, we've tried to keep that price fairly low because we're 50-60 percent free and reduced lunches," he said. "This price increase really doesn't affect them. It's the other 40-50 percent of families that aren't in there that maintain the brunt of that increase in the cost."

Board Member Becky Mooney also spoke against the increase, and Board Member Sara Tarlton said families already complain about portion size. Raising the price and not increasing portion size could cause more students to bring their own lunch. The board voted 6-0 for the breakfast reduction, to keep lunches the same price, and to increase adult lunches to $4.50.  

"The danger is if we don't increase it some this year, then next year or the year after we may have to take a substantial jump," Stoskopf said. "It's darned if you do, darned if you don't on those things."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619205387108.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSchool boards across the state are making many decisions with annual appointments and other housekeeping duties. Monday night, the USD 431 Hoisington Board of Education voted against a state recommendation to increase lunch prices and keep them the same for all students. Superintendent Patrick Crowdis said the district has approximately $182,000 in its food service account with current pricing."That is over three months worth of expenses," he said. "We averaged around $55,000 that we pay to Opaa! each month. The state actually doesn't want us to carry any more than that. If you would want to keep those prices the same, I think that would be justifiable."Reduced lunches are set by the state with breakfast costing $0.30 and lunch at $0.40. The current breakfast price for all students is $2.00, and the board voted to lower that to $1.95. Student lunch prices range from $2.60 to $2.85, and the proposal was to raise that price by as much as $0.10. Board President Dean Stoskopf was against the increase."In the past, we've tried to keep that price fairly low because we're 50-60 percent free and reduced lunches," he said. "This price increase really doesn't affect them. It's the other 40-50 percent of families that aren't in there that maintain the brunt of that increase in the cost."Board Member Becky Mooney also spoke against the increase, and Board Member Sara Tarlton said families already complain about portion size. Raising the price and not increasing portion size could cause more students to bring their own lunch. The board voted 6-0 for the breakfast reduction, to keep lunches the same price, and to increase adult lunches to $4.50. "The danger is if we don't increase it some this year, then next year or the year after we may have to take a substantial jump," Stoskopf said. "It's darned if you do, darned if you don't on those things."

Hoisington school board votes to keep lunch prices the same

With heat warnings and advisories in effect across the region and more hot days ahead, the Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma is offering tips for residents to stay safe during extreme heat.

The combination of heat and humidity will result in it feeling like it’s 110 degrees or higher. Nighttime temperatures will offer little escape from the extremely warm conditions. Experts report there could be power outages, adding that heat-related illnesses could increase in the region. To find a cooling center, contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9uVu9yMLdsagfAEqWunWbOc-3DAtiA_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWR-2BQcw3H4TDT3WgyCvOeK-2BN9mnixrviipFlKVPiVAtLqkTE9vU4oW8YDSESkBivcm44SFRZl7U-2BfUCFv4B0NrAK-2Fbv-2BDkJa-2FzqWVqQzqma9JL5cC7ZugNddJ7D4dP7HMCUIFnTS7yaFRC1YU8nDetRs-3D" target="_blank">local Red Cross chapter</a>&nbsp;or monitor local news outlets.

WHO’S AT RISK?&nbsp;More than 600 people in this country die every year from heat-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults over 65, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children, and athletes. Some may take medications that make the effects of extreme heat worse. People with heart disease, poor blood circulation, obesity and mental illness are also at risk for getting sick if the temperatures climb.

Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness and exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911.

HEAT STROKE LIFE-THREATENING&nbsp;Heat stroke usually occurs by ignoring the signals of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke develops when the body systems are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning. Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting and high body temperature. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS&nbsp;Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and other Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8cGFRKXyJbM1vK9CAowRNVSsNC_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWQtd5gw1OEUG6sbp1EWsLy0LCT24JZrO0DEng3dL8piR-2BXtoAwUV0xxofVpuD46soCrD2X-2BJBDGITLKwX6CZcbGL-2FKC4lFUpBl8mNHx7Xhfwe49f1kP7ty153WqQVNupIkK2s1klGln8tJoCJRNF67I-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/apps</a>.

CLIMATE CRISIS&nbsp;Some experts attribute the heat to the climate crisis, with extreme heat shattering temperature records all over the globe. Heatwaves in the U.S. are happening more often, lasting longer, and bringing more intense heat. As these conditions and other extreme weather disasters increase, more people need help from the Red Cross.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeI2xL96E3GAg4VxVNOs3bQ09BZ72Iryk0zhV1XJfYS8bQgV4AQr2KQeVa9qTXLrtpc-3DF7dn_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWT-2BQkputnql-2Fa0OW-2Byrw-2F2l2pS61J3UZiZKtKHId9o2qx4gb8K2uj9xP-2Blxn7m2gqKeUSSHOSo-2Fbxu-2BHWGXUO3gYO-2FFZBMadqsR6o-2BZ-2By-2BP-2BP7QCOd451yhwNe5z4DwU7uwxGSpM2wq5ExqYPrODSHM-3D" target="_blank">Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660230054984.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With heat warnings and advisories in effect across the region and more hot days ahead, the Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma is offering tips for residents to stay safe during extreme heat.The combination of heat and humidity will result in it feeling like it’s 110 degrees or higher. Nighttime temperatures will offer little escape from the extremely warm conditions. Experts report there could be power outages, adding that heat-related illnesses could increase in the region. To find a cooling center, contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9uVu9yMLdsagfAEqWunWbOc-3DAtiA_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWR-2BQcw3H4TDT3WgyCvOeK-2BN9mnixrviipFlKVPiVAtLqkTE9vU4oW8YDSESkBivcm44SFRZl7U-2BfUCFv4B0NrAK-2Fbv-2BDkJa-2FzqWVqQzqma9JL5cC7ZugNddJ7D4dP7HMCUIFnTS7yaFRC1YU8nDetRs-3D" target="_blank">local Red Cross chapter</a>&nbsp;or monitor local news outlets.WHO’S AT RISK?&nbsp;More than 600 people in this country die every year from heat-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults over 65, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children, and athletes. Some may take medications that make the effects of extreme heat worse. People with heart disease, poor blood circulation, obesity and mental illness are also at risk for getting sick if the temperatures climb.HEAT SAFETY TIPS&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.</li><li>Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.</li><li>Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.</li><li>If you don’t have air conditioning, seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.</li><li>Avoid extreme temperature changes.</li><li>Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.</li><li>Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.</li><li>Postpone outdoor games and activities.</li><li>Take frequent breaks and use a buddy system when working outdoors.</li><li>Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.</li>
 </ol>Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness and exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911.HEAT STROKE LIFE-THREATENING&nbsp;Heat stroke usually occurs by ignoring the signals of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke develops when the body systems are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning. Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting and high body temperature. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS&nbsp;Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and other Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8cGFRKXyJbM1vK9CAowRNVSsNC_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWQtd5gw1OEUG6sbp1EWsLy0LCT24JZrO0DEng3dL8piR-2BXtoAwUV0xxofVpuD46soCrD2X-2BJBDGITLKwX6CZcbGL-2FKC4lFUpBl8mNHx7Xhfwe49f1kP7ty153WqQVNupIkK2s1klGln8tJoCJRNF67I-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/apps</a>.CLIMATE CRISIS&nbsp;Some experts attribute the heat to the climate crisis, with extreme heat shattering temperature records all over the globe. Heatwaves in the U.S. are happening more often, lasting longer, and bringing more intense heat. As these conditions and other extreme weather disasters increase, more people need help from the Red Cross.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeI2xL96E3GAg4VxVNOs3bQ09BZ72Iryk0zhV1XJfYS8bQgV4AQr2KQeVa9qTXLrtpc-3DF7dn_mPaxMEIWsWWyTTE8eBn9FaG8-2B7NE2uSEUoWGibQ8yMtdDpIQAHL96yR7h5CDV-2B-2FcVerFUocrxO1GhBmaMTn8ngGj1UTMSAzQIBveNI9iME-2FKTl5kh6S0TUOQPPHbrSnNOmPH4a0-2Bpj-2BbOjBP-2FXsgbGDdB-2BFbpvfmCzRVlhduuz5d7sEReUEpwcodPJyZaKzAGP7V-2FxshilmsVbOvugmIWT-2BQkputnql-2Fa0OW-2Byrw-2F2l2pS61J3UZiZKtKHId9o2qx4gb8K2uj9xP-2Blxn7m2gqKeUSSHOSo-2Fbxu-2BHWGXUO3gYO-2FFZBMadqsR6o-2BZ-2By-2BP-2BP7QCOd451yhwNe5z4DwU7uwxGSpM2wq5ExqYPrODSHM-3D" target="_blank">Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis here</a>.

Red Cross offers safety tips during extreme heat

The Quivira Heights High School football field was once the site of some classic games. Now, football is returning to Bushton. Monday evening, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted 6-0 to move junior high football and volleyball practices to the former QHHS, now owned by the city as Bushton Plaza. The board heard from four junior high coaches, including head volleyball coach Kyrstyn Price.

"Our athletes wouldn't be where they are if it wasn't for the support behind them," she said. "That comes from their families, teachers, peers, coaches, and the community. I believe going through with this proposal shows community and being able to support each other. Why not allow a community that is part of our district to feel a part of it again?"

Price, and Jessie Habiger, a Bushton resident and the assistant volleyball coach, spoke with Bushton Rec officials and city council members. All supported the idea.

"The football field, gym, locker rooms, and commons area are exceptional," Habiger said. "Why not help a community in our school district feel a part of the district again? I think it is a positive thing for everyone involved. With everything going on now, we need to find ways to come together and keep our communities feeling included as best as we can."

Football coach Jeff Donecker and basketball coach Allen Hurley shared those sentiments, saying practice schedules can be difficult to maneuver. Donecker said using the Bushton football facilities would give his athletes a place to call their own. Volleyball and football practices and games will move to Bushton in the fall, and the junior high boys' basketball team will practice in Bushton during the winter. The junior high girls will continue to practice in Holyrood. Both junior high basketball teams will play home games in Bushton.

"For basketball purposes, there are so many teams practicing when there are boys and girls, then you're looking at the high school having boys and girls practice," Habiger said. "In order to have a gym for everyone to have their own practice after school, it would need to be that the junior high boys would practice in Bushton, the girls' junior high would practice in Holyrood, and that would allow the boys' and girls' high school teams to practice in Claflin at the rec gym and the high school gym."

Superintendent Bill Lowry pointed out a paragraph in the proposal that stated the Bushton Rec Commission would continue to provide janitorial services, maintenance, upkeep, and markings on the football field. The board agreed the move would help stabilize practice and game schedules and save the district money.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689177737760.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Quivira Heights High School football field was once the site of some classic games. Now, football is returning to Bushton. Monday evening, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted 6-0 to move junior high football and volleyball practices to the former QHHS, now owned by the city as Bushton Plaza. The board heard from four junior high coaches, including head volleyball coach Kyrstyn Price."Our athletes wouldn't be where they are if it wasn't for the support behind them," she said. "That comes from their families, teachers, peers, coaches, and the community. I believe going through with this proposal shows community and being able to support each other. Why not allow a community that is part of our district to feel a part of it again?"Price, and Jessie Habiger, a Bushton resident and the assistant volleyball coach, spoke with Bushton Rec officials and city council members. All supported the idea."The football field, gym, locker rooms, and commons area are exceptional," Habiger said. "Why not help a community in our school district feel a part of the district again? I think it is a positive thing for everyone involved. With everything going on now, we need to find ways to come together and keep our communities feeling included as best as we can."Football coach Jeff Donecker and basketball coach Allen Hurley shared those sentiments, saying practice schedules can be difficult to maneuver. Donecker said using the Bushton football facilities would give his athletes a place to call their own. Volleyball and football practices and games will move to Bushton in the fall, and the junior high boys' basketball team will practice in Bushton during the winter. The junior high girls will continue to practice in Holyrood. Both junior high basketball teams will play home games in Bushton."For basketball purposes, there are so many teams practicing when there are boys and girls, then you're looking at the high school having boys and girls practice," Habiger said. "In order to have a gym for everyone to have their own practice after school, it would need to be that the junior high boys would practice in Bushton, the girls' junior high would practice in Holyrood, and that would allow the boys' and girls' high school teams to practice in Claflin at the rec gym and the high school gym."Superintendent Bill Lowry pointed out a paragraph in the proposal that stated the Bushton Rec Commission would continue to provide janitorial services, maintenance, upkeep, and markings on the football field. The board agreed the move would help stabilize practice and game schedules and save the district money.

Central Plains junior high teams to utilize Bushton facilities

This is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Based on July 1 conditions, Kansas' winter wheat production is forecast at 208 million bushels, down 15 percent from last year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Average yield is forecast at 32 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from 2022. Area to be harvested for grain is estimated at 6.5 million acres, down 2 percent from a year ago.

This week wheat coming in looks to be all over the board, according to Jim Bob Lewton, senior Vice President of Grain Operations with the Konza Coop in Pratt.&nbsp;

Harvest in and surrounding Pratt began June 20, about seven to ten days later than when they usually start. Yields have been averaging about 25 bushels per acre, but some fields have been better than others. Proteins have been high, reaching up into 12-13 percent. These recent rains have been causing test weights to dip, remaining in the 58-60 pounds per bushel region. Moisture has been varying with these recent rains, although the grain has remained dry enough for harvesting. Now all that is left is to wait for conditions to dry enough for farmers to get combines in the field.&nbsp;

Lewton predicts harvest will be complete next week. They anticipate that they will only receive 30-40 percent of their usual amount of wheat.&nbsp;

Chris Tanner from Norton reports his harvest began on July 4 and will last about another week, barring rain delays. He said harvest is far later than normal and he is fighting weed pressure.

“I’m amazed at the resiliency of wheat, given what it looked like through the winter,” he said, noting that the Westbred variety Grainfield has been doing well for him.

This year’s harvest is much better than last year for Tanner, who said this is going to be a “highly average year” for the acres he is able to harvest. Even so, about 30 percent of his wheat was zeroed out due to the drought.

Tanner reports that his test weights have been averaging 61 to 62 pounds per bushel, except for the wheat that was hailed on, which was only in the low 50s. Yields are ranging from 15 to 70 bushels per acre, with an overall farm average anticipated to be 25. Protein is about 13 percent.

﻿It was truly a family wheat harvest with four generations in the field. He was fortunate this year that his son, daughter, son-in-law and 6-month-old granddaughter were able to join him, his brother and his father for this year’s harvest.

Evan Lesser, who farms near Palco in Graham County, reports that harvest began on June 26 and he has about 2 days left.

Test weights are ranging from 60 to 64 pounds per bushel and protein measured 15 percent. May rains came a little too late to positively affect yield, but they did help with improving grain fill and test weights. Yields are ranging from 22 to 50 bushels per acre, depending on which fields caught the rain.

Lesser says yields were much better last year, with his 2022 farm average better than even his highest yields this year. Overall, this has been a disappointing year for his wheat, one of the worst since he started farming in 2010.&nbsp; He does, however, have high hopes for corn and grain sorghum.

He reported that Kansas Wheat Alliance’s KS Territory has been an excellent variety for him this year.

The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CqgUN6zt8VxCTkeqRgZL8UjPTg3fMK30q33IQCfmIab9S4vPVS2Vb1_ahR0wtaP929qeh-yN1X_X6bwnwCIHttnTq0JpMPq0uo8_UZEYcOT-&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6Cslpts-mkPoqgJb50EqE6lCWLhp9bWa7T7aLclWuLb9-Ewhv9zveVMK9H7O0ZLZysYYRd2-60_FkdUU7fn3Tg_LlCeawzLHE2773fUdClAGM&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CpV0N8SJAo1ZTmYbsThoiTFH04yPAZCU35KNXa8zGkLxx_ElQQfxsZZUYxeCqg5u-A61fwPqmt0TFvxsQBJmHK02R_h3gX3t4XQydj5PNpKV&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Jenna Fiscus with Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689254357028.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Based on July 1 conditions, Kansas' winter wheat production is forecast at 208 million bushels, down 15 percent from last year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Average yield is forecast at 32 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from 2022. Area to be harvested for grain is estimated at 6.5 million acres, down 2 percent from a year ago.This week wheat coming in looks to be all over the board, according to Jim Bob Lewton, senior Vice President of Grain Operations with the Konza Coop in Pratt.&nbsp;Harvest in and surrounding Pratt began June 20, about seven to ten days later than when they usually start. Yields have been averaging about 25 bushels per acre, but some fields have been better than others. Proteins have been high, reaching up into 12-13 percent. These recent rains have been causing test weights to dip, remaining in the 58-60 pounds per bushel region. Moisture has been varying with these recent rains, although the grain has remained dry enough for harvesting. Now all that is left is to wait for conditions to dry enough for farmers to get combines in the field.&nbsp;Lewton predicts harvest will be complete next week. They anticipate that they will only receive 30-40 percent of their usual amount of wheat.&nbsp;Chris Tanner from Norton reports his harvest began on July 4 and will last about another week, barring rain delays. He said harvest is far later than normal and he is fighting weed pressure.“I’m amazed at the resiliency of wheat, given what it looked like through the winter,” he said, noting that the Westbred variety Grainfield has been doing well for him.This year’s harvest is much better than last year for Tanner, who said this is going to be a “highly average year” for the acres he is able to harvest. Even so, about 30 percent of his wheat was zeroed out due to the drought.Tanner reports that his test weights have been averaging 61 to 62 pounds per bushel, except for the wheat that was hailed on, which was only in the low 50s. Yields are ranging from 15 to 70 bushels per acre, with an overall farm average anticipated to be 25. Protein is about 13 percent.﻿It was truly a family wheat harvest with four generations in the field. He was fortunate this year that his son, daughter, son-in-law and 6-month-old granddaughter were able to join him, his brother and his father for this year’s harvest.Evan Lesser, who farms near Palco in Graham County, reports that harvest began on June 26 and he has about 2 days left.Test weights are ranging from 60 to 64 pounds per bushel and protein measured 15 percent. May rains came a little too late to positively affect yield, but they did help with improving grain fill and test weights. Yields are ranging from 22 to 50 bushels per acre, depending on which fields caught the rain.Lesser says yields were much better last year, with his 2022 farm average better than even his highest yields this year. Overall, this has been a disappointing year for his wheat, one of the worst since he started farming in 2010.&nbsp; He does, however, have high hopes for corn and grain sorghum.He reported that Kansas Wheat Alliance’s KS Territory has been an excellent variety for him this year.The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CqgUN6zt8VxCTkeqRgZL8UjPTg3fMK30q33IQCfmIab9S4vPVS2Vb1_ahR0wtaP929qeh-yN1X_X6bwnwCIHttnTq0JpMPq0uo8_UZEYcOT-&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6Cslpts-mkPoqgJb50EqE6lCWLhp9bWa7T7aLclWuLb9-Ewhv9zveVMK9H7O0ZLZysYYRd2-60_FkdUU7fn3Tg_LlCeawzLHE2773fUdClAGM&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CpV0N8SJAo1ZTmYbsThoiTFH04yPAZCU35KNXa8zGkLxx_ElQQfxsZZUYxeCqg5u-A61fwPqmt0TFvxsQBJmHK02R_h3gX3t4XQydj5PNpKV&amp;c=5M_jijJSurl2Gn38bmO6qUpozUXuVEFIcG4Cv5NBlRVOmmC3nyQsmg==&amp;ch=IpN9CnYkNE_fpjUHWFX2WRFCLAUbUWMfrSLYvHK6lXp8tTvBvJDzkw==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.Written by Jenna Fiscus with Kansas Wheat

Day 10, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

Barton Community College plans to drop their mill levy for
the 2023-2024 school year, but will be seeking more property tax money than
last year to help with a $1.1 million deficit for the upcoming year. 

Barton
pulled a 30.081 mill levy this past school year, generating more than $9
million in taxes levied from the public. With increases in real estate and oil
and gas valuation, Barton County’s estimated valuation increased this year by
nearly $32 million, meaning each mill is worth more in the 2024 fiscal year.
The college needed a mill levy of 27.959 in 2024 to raise the same amount of
tax dollars as last year, or to keep the Revenue Neutral Rate. The Board of
Trustees agreed to position the mill levy at 29.380 to garner approximately
$434,000 extra in taxes this year. 

Scheduled to collect $10,373,627 in taxes,
Barton’s Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said the college’s deficit for 2024 will
drop to $1.1 million. 
 "Hopefully, we won't spend the entire $1.1 million next year," said Dean. "You always have positions that are unfilled and some areas don't spend everything they were allotted. Tuition and fees are unknown. Summer enrollment so far looks very good, but we don't know what's going to happen in the fall or spring." 
 
The 2024 fiscal year budget includes an additional $1.9 million in expenses, with the
majority of the bump coming from a 3% pay increase for employees to maintain
market value salaries. 
 
Barton finished this year with a $1.1 million deficit and will again operate
2024 anticipating a loss of $1.1 million. President Dr. Carl Heilman said the
deficit was taken from the college’s cash reserves, which is a fund that
consisted of more than $20 million last year. 
 "We're looking at a budget in terms of using the reserve fund, and how much the reserve fund the trustees would feel comfortable using," said Heilman. "This gives a good example that we reserved budget funds and to be careful with the track record in terms of using them. Sometimes we have not used it, but times are different now and circumstances have changed." 
 
Barton outlined the 2023 deficit was caused by unfilled positions that were
filled, new programs, construction, lower enrollment and inflation costs. 
 
With the jump in valuations, the upcoming 29.380 mill levy for Barton Community
College will be the lowest rate since 2005.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689188556338.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton Community College plans to drop their mill levy for
the 2023-2024 school year, but will be seeking more property tax money than
last year to help with a $1.1 million deficit for the upcoming year. Barton
pulled a 30.081 mill levy this past school year, generating more than $9
million in taxes levied from the public. With increases in real estate and oil
and gas valuation, Barton County’s estimated valuation increased this year by
nearly $32 million, meaning each mill is worth more in the 2024 fiscal year.
The college needed a mill levy of 27.959 in 2024 to raise the same amount of
tax dollars as last year, or to keep the Revenue Neutral Rate. The Board of
Trustees agreed to position the mill levy at 29.380 to garner approximately
$434,000 extra in taxes this year. Scheduled to collect $10,373,627 in taxes,
Barton’s Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said the college’s deficit for 2024 will
drop to $1.1 million. 
 "Hopefully, we won't spend the entire $1.1 million next year," said Dean. "You always have positions that are unfilled and some areas don't spend everything they were allotted. Tuition and fees are unknown. Summer enrollment so far looks very good, but we don't know what's going to happen in the fall or spring." 
 
The 2024 fiscal year budget includes an additional $1.9 million in expenses, with the
majority of the bump coming from a 3% pay increase for employees to maintain
market value salaries. 
 
Barton finished this year with a $1.1 million deficit and will again operate
2024 anticipating a loss of $1.1 million. President Dr. Carl Heilman said the
deficit was taken from the college’s cash reserves, which is a fund that
consisted of more than $20 million last year. 
 "We're looking at a budget in terms of using the reserve fund, and how much the reserve fund the trustees would feel comfortable using," said Heilman. "This gives a good example that we reserved budget funds and to be careful with the track record in terms of using them. Sometimes we have not used it, but times are different now and circumstances have changed." 
 
Barton outlined the 2023 deficit was caused by unfilled positions that were
filled, new programs, construction, lower enrollment and inflation costs. 
 
With the jump in valuations, the upcoming 29.380 mill levy for Barton Community
College will be the lowest rate since 2005.

Barton CC seeking to soften budget deficit with 2024 mill levy

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/12) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:48 a.m. a report was made in the 1100 block of NE 20 Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
At 1:22 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 500 W. Barton County Rd. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 197 at W. US 56 Highway. 
 
At 2:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 36 NE K-156 Highway. 
 
At 4:34 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; SE 160
Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:25 p.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway at MM 209. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/12) 
 
At 12:28 a.m. a report of a truck almost running him off the road was made at
1000 Main Street. 
 
Hemorrhage / Lacerations 
 
At 2:14 a.m. a report of hemorrhage/lacerations case was made at 1109 Main
Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:50 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 29th &amp; Morton. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9 a.m. theft of mail was reported at 2207 28th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 10:40 a.m. a parked vehicle blocking an alley was reported at 2110 Kansas
Avenue. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 1:16 p.m. an officer arrested Hailey Lewis for possession of marijuana,
possession of paraphernalia, no DL and obstruction at 21st &amp; Van
Buren Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:51 p.m. a report of a neighbor’s dog attacking her dog was made at 1601 8th
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the county was reported at
MM 197 on W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:21 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 811 Grant Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:16 p.m. a theft of $8,500 from the residence was made at 2812 25th
Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:23 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop a ¼ mile east of town on
US 56 Highway. 
 
Noise Complaint 
 
At 11:05 p.m. loud music coming from a business was reported at 5220 10th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/12) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:48 a.m. a report was made in the 1100 block of NE 20 Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
At 1:22 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 500 W. Barton County Rd. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 197 at W. US 56 Highway. 
 
At 2:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 36 NE K-156 Highway. 
 
At 4:34 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; SE 160
Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:25 p.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway at MM 209. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/12) 
 
At 12:28 a.m. a report of a truck almost running him off the road was made at
1000 Main Street. 
 
Hemorrhage / Lacerations 
 
At 2:14 a.m. a report of hemorrhage/lacerations case was made at 1109 Main
Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:50 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 29th &amp; Morton. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9 a.m. theft of mail was reported at 2207 28th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 10:40 a.m. a parked vehicle blocking an alley was reported at 2110 Kansas
Avenue. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 1:16 p.m. an officer arrested Hailey Lewis for possession of marijuana,
possession of paraphernalia, no DL and obstruction at 21st &amp; Van
Buren Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:51 p.m. a report of a neighbor’s dog attacking her dog was made at 1601 8th
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the county was reported at
MM 197 on W. US 56 Highway. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:21 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 811 Grant Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:16 p.m. a theft of $8,500 from the residence was made at 2812 25th
Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:23 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop a ¼ mile east of town on
US 56 Highway. 
 
Noise Complaint 
 
At 11:05 p.m. loud music coming from a business was reported at 5220 10th
Street.

Cop Shop (7/12)

7/12 BOOKED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Driver's License, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Hunter Ward on six Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $102,500.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/12 BOOKED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Driver's License, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Hunter Ward on six Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $102,500.&nbsp;RELEASED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Driver's License, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

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