Free health screenings at Great Bend Senior Center

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired July 6, 2023.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired July 6, 2023.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Sheriff Brian Bellendir" 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=3us7h-144e4c3-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: County Edition - Sheriff Brian Bellendir

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is excited to once again be able to offer our members another option for health insurance through our affiliation with the Chambers of Commerce Executives of Kansas and Blue Cross Blue Shield. We had 20 businesses with 138 employees take part in the first year's plan that went live on 1/1/2023. If your business is interested in reviewing group insurance rates for 2024 plan year of the Chamber Blue of Kansas health insurance option, the interest survey is now&nbsp;<a href="https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO" target="_blank">LIVE</a>. What You Need to Know

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647833273339.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is excited to once again be able to offer our members another option for health insurance through our affiliation with the Chambers of Commerce Executives of Kansas and Blue Cross Blue Shield. We had 20 businesses with 138 employees take part in the first year's plan that went live on 1/1/2023. If your business is interested in reviewing group insurance rates for 2024 plan year of the Chamber Blue of Kansas health insurance option, the interest survey is now&nbsp;<a href="https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO" target="_blank">LIVE</a>. What You Need to Know<ul>
 <li>The business must complete the survey to be eligible to see the rates and enroll for a 1/1/24 enrollment.</li><li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO" target="_blank">interest survey</a>&nbsp;will close at the end of the business day on&nbsp;Friday, August 18th.&nbsp;The end date will not change in order to keep on track for the timeline that has been established.&nbsp;Within the survey you will be asked&nbsp;to provide business name, contact name, phone number and email address to be able to identify businesses.&nbsp;The survey will also not allow duplicates.&nbsp;Businesses that complete the survey will receive a message when successfully completed notifying them that a BCBS Rep will be in contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Within the survey you will be asked&nbsp;to provide business name, contact name, phone number and email address to be able to identify businesses.&nbsp;The survey will also not allow duplicates.&nbsp;</li><li>Businesses that complete the survey will receive a message when successfully completed notifying them that a BCBS Rep will be in contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Businesses&nbsp;currently&nbsp;enrolled in Chamber Blue&nbsp;do not need to complete&nbsp;the survey.&nbsp; Once renewal rates are released in October, a BCBSKS representative will reach out to review the renewal.</li><li>This plan is for businesses with employee counts 2-50. In some instances, sole proprietorships can be eligible. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://bcbsks.com/chamberblueks" target="_blank">bcbsks.com/chamberblueks</a>&nbsp;for more information and to request a BCBS rep to contact you.</li><li>Businesses must be chamber members in good standing prior to enrollment.</li>
 </ul>TIMELINE<ul>
 <li>July 5th - August 17th: Interest Survey is LiveComplete Survey Here:&nbsp;<a href="https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO" target="_blank">https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO</a></li><li>Complete Survey Here:&nbsp;<a href="https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO" target="_blank">https://bcbskansas.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7rD8y6ZM21itgO</a></li><li>October: Rate will be released</li><li>November 1-15: Enrollment</li><li>December 22: ID cards mailed</li>
 </ul>Additional Information<ul>
 <li><a href="http://bcbsks.com/chamberblueks" target="_blank">Chamber Blue Website</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bcbsks.com/documents/mc446-ahp-employer-brochure" target="_blank">Employer Guide</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bcbsks.com/documents/mc449b-chamber-blue-benefits-brochure" target="_blank">Benefits Brochure</a></li>
 </ul>

GB Chamber: Interest survey for Chamber Blue health insurance

Kansas wheat harvest is 46% complete, well behind 80% last year, and behind 63% for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 2, 2023. Winter wheat conditions rated 51% very poor to poor, 33% fair and 16% good to excellent.&nbsp;

“This wheat crop will be remembered for facing challenges from start to finish with the final Kansas total production being the lowest in decades,” Kansas Wheat CEO, Justin Gilpin said. “After two years of drought, it is good to finally get some relief, it just came at the wrong time in many places for this year’s wheat crop. These challenges that have been plaguing the 2023 wheat crop highlight the need for access to advanced technologies in wheat production and management.”

Hot temperatures through July 4th meant farmers were in the fields ahead of the widespread showers that moved in on the evening of the July 4th&nbsp;holiday.&nbsp;

In Ness County at the D.E. Bondurant Grain Company, Gary Gantz said during the 4th of July weekend, several producers were cutting wheat. Friday and Saturday were particularly busy days, especially for the Riverside location. Gantz predicted harvest will continue into late July.

Gantz stated farmers in the area who had not terminated their wheat were seeing slightly better yields than what they had initially thought. Yields ranged from 25 to 35 bushels per acre, with decent test weights and high proteins in the 12.5 to 14 percent range.&nbsp;

Last year, during the 2022 wheat harvest, which was another dry year for the Kansas wheat crop, Gantz recalled they only received about 50% of their normal amount of wheat. With the already dry conditions following 2022, the 2023 crop was off to less than ideal conditions that continued into harvest. This harvest, the elevator is seeing a mere 25% of normal wheat quantity. About 40-50% of the planted 2023 wheat crop in the area was abandoned. Although this wheat crop was very disappointing, with these late rains, Gantz noted the elevator remains optimistic for currently growing fall crops. One such rain event brought as much as three inches of rain.

Derek Sawyer, a Kansas Wheat Commission board member located in McPherson County, reports that he wrapped up his 2023 wheat harvest on July 1st, having started on June 15th. He adds that 85-90% of his county has also finished their harvest for this year.&nbsp;

“I had some really bad double crop that averaged 20 bushels per acre,” Sawyer said, noting his overall crop average was 48 bushels per acre.

An outstanding variety for Sawyer was WestBred 4699. His protein was 14 percent, with test weights in the 58-60 pound range, just slightly below average. There was very little abandonment in the area, about 5-10%, due to the challenges of the spring freeze and hail. In addition to freeze damage and hail being an issue, thin wheat stands caused weed pressure to be more prevalent.&nbsp;

Kendall Poland, of the Sublette Co-op in Haskell County, said harvest has just really gotten started. Only one of his farmers has been able to get into the fields after these recent rains. The wheat crop is shaping up to be very minimal so far - almost 95% of dryland wheat acres were abandoned in the area. With wheat harvest only having just begun on Tuesday, June 27, and more rain in the forecast, wheat harvest might extend much further into the calendar than what anyone is used to.

Despite the slow start to harvest, Poland remarked how much of a blessing these rains have been to this parched area of Kansas. Hailstorms have torn through the area causing damage to corn and cotton acres. Although the hail wasn’t large, there was a lot of it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688666506736.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas wheat harvest is 46% complete, well behind 80% last year, and behind 63% for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 2, 2023. Winter wheat conditions rated 51% very poor to poor, 33% fair and 16% good to excellent.&nbsp;“This wheat crop will be remembered for facing challenges from start to finish with the final Kansas total production being the lowest in decades,” Kansas Wheat CEO, Justin Gilpin said. “After two years of drought, it is good to finally get some relief, it just came at the wrong time in many places for this year’s wheat crop. These challenges that have been plaguing the 2023 wheat crop highlight the need for access to advanced technologies in wheat production and management.”Hot temperatures through July 4th meant farmers were in the fields ahead of the widespread showers that moved in on the evening of the July 4th&nbsp;holiday.&nbsp;In Ness County at the D.E. Bondurant Grain Company, Gary Gantz said during the 4th of July weekend, several producers were cutting wheat. Friday and Saturday were particularly busy days, especially for the Riverside location. Gantz predicted harvest will continue into late July.Gantz stated farmers in the area who had not terminated their wheat were seeing slightly better yields than what they had initially thought. Yields ranged from 25 to 35 bushels per acre, with decent test weights and high proteins in the 12.5 to 14 percent range.&nbsp;Last year, during the 2022 wheat harvest, which was another dry year for the Kansas wheat crop, Gantz recalled they only received about 50% of their normal amount of wheat. With the already dry conditions following 2022, the 2023 crop was off to less than ideal conditions that continued into harvest. This harvest, the elevator is seeing a mere 25% of normal wheat quantity. About 40-50% of the planted 2023 wheat crop in the area was abandoned. Although this wheat crop was very disappointing, with these late rains, Gantz noted the elevator remains optimistic for currently growing fall crops. One such rain event brought as much as three inches of rain.Derek Sawyer, a Kansas Wheat Commission board member located in McPherson County, reports that he wrapped up his 2023 wheat harvest on July 1st, having started on June 15th. He adds that 85-90% of his county has also finished their harvest for this year.&nbsp;“I had some really bad double crop that averaged 20 bushels per acre,” Sawyer said, noting his overall crop average was 48 bushels per acre.An outstanding variety for Sawyer was WestBred 4699. His protein was 14 percent, with test weights in the 58-60 pound range, just slightly below average. There was very little abandonment in the area, about 5-10%, due to the challenges of the spring freeze and hail. In addition to freeze damage and hail being an issue, thin wheat stands caused weed pressure to be more prevalent.&nbsp;Kendall Poland, of the Sublette Co-op in Haskell County, said harvest has just really gotten started. Only one of his farmers has been able to get into the fields after these recent rains. The wheat crop is shaping up to be very minimal so far - almost 95% of dryland wheat acres were abandoned in the area. With wheat harvest only having just begun on Tuesday, June 27, and more rain in the forecast, wheat harvest might extend much further into the calendar than what anyone is used to.Despite the slow start to harvest, Poland remarked how much of a blessing these rains have been to this parched area of Kansas. Hailstorms have torn through the area causing damage to corn and cotton acres. Although the hail wasn’t large, there was a lot of it.

Wheat Scoop: Wheat harvest progresses despite delays and late start

This summer Smoky Hills PBS is working with public libraries throughout central and western Kansas to conduct summer reading programs through the Share a Story project.

Share a Story is a 45-60 minute program geared toward children ages 2-7. Each program consists of the following format:

2. Watch it – View a show related to the book

Each participant receives his or her own book and related materials. Share a Story helps children become better readers by inspiring adults to read to children every day. Research shows that activities like these do make a difference. Children who are read to every day, from birth on, do better in school, become good listeners and writers, and have better language, critical and imaginative skills.

Simple, fun daily activities like reading aloud, storytelling, rhyming, singing, exercise, drawing, and acting, teach young children language and literacy skills – and that’s what Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story is all about.

A complete schedule of Share a Story events can be found at SmokyHillsPBS.org.

July 14 - 2 p.m. Hoisington - Hoisington Public Library

July 18 - 10 a.m. St. John - Ida Long Goodman Memorial Library

July 25 - 10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Great Bend - Great Bend Public Library

July 25 - 11 a.m. St. Francis - St. Francis Public Library

July 26 - 10 a.m.&nbsp; Glasco - Glasco City Library

July 26 - 1 p.m.&nbsp; Concordia - Frank Carlson Library

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684875923559.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This summer Smoky Hills PBS is working with public libraries throughout central and western Kansas to conduct summer reading programs through the Share a Story project.Share a Story is a 45-60 minute program geared toward children ages 2-7. Each program consists of the following format:1. Read it – Read a PBS KIDS book2. Watch it – View a show related to the book3. Do it – Have fun making a craftEach participant receives his or her own book and related materials. Share a Story helps children become better readers by inspiring adults to read to children every day. Research shows that activities like these do make a difference. Children who are read to every day, from birth on, do better in school, become good listeners and writers, and have better language, critical and imaginative skills.Simple, fun daily activities like reading aloud, storytelling, rhyming, singing, exercise, drawing, and acting, teach young children language and literacy skills – and that’s what Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story is all about.A complete schedule of Share a Story events can be found at SmokyHillsPBS.org.2023 Share a Story scheduleJuly 14 - 2 p.m. Hoisington - Hoisington Public LibraryJuly 18 - 10 a.m. St. John - Ida Long Goodman Memorial LibraryJuly 25 - 10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Great Bend - Great Bend Public LibraryJuly 25 - 11 a.m. St. Francis - St. Francis Public LibraryJuly 26 - 10 a.m.&nbsp; Glasco - Glasco City LibraryJuly 26 - 1 p.m.&nbsp; Concordia - Frank Carlson Library

PBS reading program coming to Great Bend, Hoisington, St. John

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/7e1d6e88-6c97-4759-831c-1d1d32678379">Great Bend councilmembers adamant on abatement changes</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/0dd40506-ccd7-4340-b305-721d7dbb4aa5">Great Bend Fire Dept. responds to 14 fire call on July 4</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/21c4f442-5a0f-49aa-8339-6cd058c4af0d">Mi Tierra cuts ribbon on new restaurant in Larned</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688434236681.jpeg" alt="1515 Tyler Street was referenced in the Great Bend City Council's discussion on the abatement process on Monday, July 3, 2023." />
 <figcaption>1515 Tyler Street was referenced in the Great Bend City Council's discussion on the abatement process on Monday, July 3, 2023.</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/5311stxv/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7e1d6e88-6c97-4759-831c-1d1d32678379">Great Bend councilmembers adamant on abatement changes</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/0dd40506-ccd7-4340-b305-721d7dbb4aa5">Great Bend Fire Dept. responds to 14 fire call on July 4</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/21c4f442-5a0f-49aa-8339-6cd058c4af0d">Mi Tierra cuts ribbon on new restaurant in Larned</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In July 2021, the Great Bend City Council voted to shift $1 million of the
city’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds into a downtown loft project. The
federal money, given to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, assisted the loft
grants to reimburse owners of multi-story buildings for the cost of
renovations, including the addition of fire sprinklers. 

The city divided the $1
million allotment into two tranches of $500,000. Since the launch of the
program two years ago, Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger
said two checks have been issued to property owners totaling roughly $350,000. &nbsp; "Of the $500,000 that we have, we've spent a little over $300,000," said Arnberger. "People need to hurry. If you want to do those loft expansions or renovations, we'd love to talk to you."&nbsp;

The loft grants provide a forgivable loan with 0% interest for businesses to renovate unused upper levels of downtown buildings. Property owners have until the end of 2024 to complete the renovations.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Arnberger said there are three more loft grant projects in the works that have yet to be announced. 
In March 2022, B&amp;H Development was awarded an $85,250 loft project grant to
create an events space on the second floor of the old Masonic Lodge at 2015
Lakin Avenue.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b7946b27-9383-4a80-a442-139b598d54ee"> RELATED STORY: Owners of downtown Great Bend building have plans for 'events space'</a> 
This past June, MyTown LP was given $265,650 to renovate the upper floors of
the old Zarah Hotel into 24 apartments.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b08bb502-9414-4383-82bd-c9c9709fed17">RELATED STORY: Downtown Great Bend apartment project receives $265K loft grant</a>

For more information on the loft grant project, visit <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/downtowndevelopment">gbedinc.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688659237354.jpeg" alt="Owners of 2015 Lakin in Great Bend received a loft grant in March 2022 to renovate the second floor." />
 <figcaption>Owners of 2015 Lakin in Great Bend received a loft grant in March 2022 to renovate the second floor.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn July 2021, the Great Bend City Council voted to shift $1 million of the
city’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds into a downtown loft project. The
federal money, given to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, assisted the loft
grants to reimburse owners of multi-story buildings for the cost of
renovations, including the addition of fire sprinklers. The city divided the $1
million allotment into two tranches of $500,000. Since the launch of the
program two years ago, Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger
said two checks have been issued to property owners totaling roughly $350,000. &nbsp; "Of the $500,000 that we have, we've spent a little over $300,000," said Arnberger. "People need to hurry. If you want to do those loft expansions or renovations, we'd love to talk to you."&nbsp; The loft grants provide a forgivable loan with 0% interest for businesses to renovate unused upper levels of downtown buildings. Property owners have until the end of 2024 to complete the renovations.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Arnberger said there are three more loft grant projects in the works that have yet to be announced. 
In March 2022, B&amp;H Development was awarded an $85,250 loft project grant to
create an events space on the second floor of the old Masonic Lodge at 2015
Lakin Avenue.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b7946b27-9383-4a80-a442-139b598d54ee"> RELATED STORY: Owners of downtown Great Bend building have plans for 'events space'</a> 
This past June, MyTown LP was given $265,650 to renovate the upper floors of
the old Zarah Hotel into 24 apartments.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b08bb502-9414-4383-82bd-c9c9709fed17">RELATED STORY: Downtown Great Bend apartment project receives $265K loft grant</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687370002978.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For more information on the loft grant project, visit <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/downtowndevelopment">gbedinc.com</a>.

$600K+ available for downtown Great Bend loft grants

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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MDcuNzkzNTA4MjEifQ.b6p9G0VhuzLyNRi1ZnBgEH42IPKCiYykKikCbhn-ULs/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzA3Ljc5MzUwODIxIn0._7biv91l9soHpfDeuZjjilojYyDFjd41eH73NPIZwTM/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzA3Ljc5MzUwODIxIn0.UPMHqzAkvPN_n-7ykSBLNvpbgV2FPNoweAVbA3rfNm8/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MDcuNzkzNTA4MjEifQ.b6p9G0VhuzLyNRi1ZnBgEH42IPKCiYykKikCbhn-ULs/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-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 (Elevated July 7)</li><li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County</li><li>Webster Lake (Reservoir), Rooks County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Watch<ul>
 <li>Augusta Santa Fe Lake, Butler County</li><li>Dorner Park Lake, Sedgwick County&nbsp;</li><li>Strowbridge Reservoir (Carbondale East Lake), Osage County</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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzA3Ljc5MzUwODIxIn0._7biv91l9soHpfDeuZjjilojYyDFjd41eH73NPIZwTM/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzA3Ljc5MzUwODIxIn0.UPMHqzAkvPN_n-7ykSBLNvpbgV2FPNoweAVbA3rfNm8/s/1305943094/br/222351348573-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

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

When thinking about weed control in wheat stubble, there are two priorities – controlling already emerged weeds and preventing later flushes. Making applications before weeds exceed 4 to 6 inches is necessary for good control of already emerged weeds, in an idea situation, which is hard to come by. Residual herbicides are needed to reduce the number of herbicide applications needed to control multiple flushes of weeds.

Gramoxone (paraquat) is a non-selective, contact herbicide that can be used in fallow fields. It should be applied at 0.5 to 1.0 pounds of paraquat/A, which is equal to 2 to 4 pints of GramoxoneSL 2.0 or 1.3 to 2.7 pints of GramoxoneSL 3.0. Thorough spray coverage is important for good control, which means medium to coarse droplet sizes and greater spray volumes (20 GPA or more). Gramoxone should be applied with NIS, COC, or MSO. Because paraquat is a contact herbicide regrowth is common, especially of large weeds. Adding a Group 5 herbicide, such as atrazine or metribuzin can enhance control of larger weeds and add some residual activity. Atrazine will also help control volunteer wheat. It’s also important to remember that paraquat is a restricted use pesticide that requires additional training for handling.

Sharpen (saflufenacil) is a Group 14 herbicide that is a primarily a contact herbicide but also provides some residual activity. Use 2 to 3 oz/A for larger weeds and residual activity. Sharpen works best with the addition of methylated seed oil. Sharpen requires complete coverage so using 15 to 20 gallons/acre spray solution is important.

Valor (flumioxazin) can provide contact and residual activity of key species like pigweeds. Valor EZ can be applied at 2 to 4 fl oz/A. Crop rotation should be considered when selecting the application rate. The 4 fl oz rate has a 4-month rotation interval for corn, cotton, sorghum, soybean, sunflower, and wheat; but lower rates have fewer restrictions. If targeting emerged weeds, NIS or COC should be included in the application.

All herbicides are most effective when applied to weeds that are actively growing. This means it is necessary to wait for a at least 2-3 inches of regrowth if weeds were cut off by the combine. It may be tempting to wait further delay applications to wait for later weed flushes; however, consider including a product with residual activity, rather than waiting, in order to prevent poor control of large weeds. Additional information can be found in the 2021 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland, K-State publication SRP-1162.

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>When thinking about weed control in wheat stubble, there are two priorities – controlling already emerged weeds and preventing later flushes. Making applications before weeds exceed 4 to 6 inches is necessary for good control of already emerged weeds, in an idea situation, which is hard to come by. Residual herbicides are needed to reduce the number of herbicide applications needed to control multiple flushes of weeds.Gramoxone (paraquat) is a non-selective, contact herbicide that can be used in fallow fields. It should be applied at 0.5 to 1.0 pounds of paraquat/A, which is equal to 2 to 4 pints of GramoxoneSL 2.0 or 1.3 to 2.7 pints of GramoxoneSL 3.0. Thorough spray coverage is important for good control, which means medium to coarse droplet sizes and greater spray volumes (20 GPA or more). Gramoxone should be applied with NIS, COC, or MSO. Because paraquat is a contact herbicide regrowth is common, especially of large weeds. Adding a Group 5 herbicide, such as atrazine or metribuzin can enhance control of larger weeds and add some residual activity. Atrazine will also help control volunteer wheat. It’s also important to remember that paraquat is a restricted use pesticide that requires additional training for handling.Sharpen (saflufenacil) is a Group 14 herbicide that is a primarily a contact herbicide but also provides some residual activity. Use 2 to 3 oz/A for larger weeds and residual activity. Sharpen works best with the addition of methylated seed oil. Sharpen requires complete coverage so using 15 to 20 gallons/acre spray solution is important.Valor (flumioxazin) can provide contact and residual activity of key species like pigweeds. Valor EZ can be applied at 2 to 4 fl oz/A. Crop rotation should be considered when selecting the application rate. The 4 fl oz rate has a 4-month rotation interval for corn, cotton, sorghum, soybean, sunflower, and wheat; but lower rates have fewer restrictions. If targeting emerged weeds, NIS or COC should be included in the application.All herbicides are most effective when applied to weeds that are actively growing. This means it is necessary to wait for a at least 2-3 inches of regrowth if weeds were cut off by the combine. It may be tempting to wait further delay applications to wait for later weed flushes; however, consider including a product with residual activity, rather than waiting, in order to prevent poor control of large weeds. Additional information can be found in the 2021 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland, K-State publication SRP-1162.The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Considerations for weed control following wheat harvest

Story by Joe Vinduska Students from Barton’s chapter of HOSA (Future Health Professionals) joined almost 11,000 students in Dallas, Texas earlier this summer at the 2023 International Leadership Conference (ILC), where they competed against students from all 50 states as well as students from Korea, China, Canada, Puerto Rico, and America Samoa.

In addition to the competition, participants could attend many leadership and healthcare-related symposiums, and visit the EXPO with over 300 different booths representing products, equipment, universities, and other student resources. They also enjoyed a presentation from keynote speaker Admiral Brett Giroir, the United States Assistant Secretary of Health from 2018-2021.

Barton Director of Medical Laboratory Technology Karen Gunther said of the six Barton students who qualified for the ILC, Kaden Baird, Callie Zink, and Valeria Gallardo were able to attend and compete. She said all three students made it to the finals round. Baird finished second place overall in the medical assisting competition, Zink finished in the top five in cultural diversity and disparities, and Gallardo placed second overall in the clinical laboratory science competition.

Gunther is part of the ILC Competitive Event Committee, and along with the 29 other members of the committee, arranged and organized all the events including the written exams, skills, teamwork, and leadership competitive events offered at this year's conference. She said this event helps the students learn far beyond the reach of what is possible in any classroom or lab and that the group was able to go on this trip thanks to very generous donations.

“On behalf of HOSA, I would like to thank everyone who helped us get to Dallas and compete,” she said. “We are so proud of all our students for how well they represented Kansas and Barton Community College during their week in Dallas and how hard they competed. The networking opportunities they experienced, coupled with the exposure they had to various workshops and equipment demonstrations will help them be even more knowledgeable as they navigate their education and careers.”

HOSA is a global, student-led organization recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services. The group’s mission is to empower members to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and experience. HOSA actively promotes career opportunities in the health industry and aims to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.

To learn more, please contact Gunther at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:guntherka@bartonccc.edu">guntherka@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 786-1133.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688653040813.png" alt="Barton HOSA members (From left) Valeria Gallardo, Callie Zink, and Kaden Baird pose for a photo at 2023 International Leadership Conference and Competition in Dallas, Texas in June. The students represented several healthcare programs at Barton including Emergency Medical Services, Nursing, Medical Lab Technician, and Pharmacy Technician." />
 <figcaption>Barton HOSA members (From left) Valeria Gallardo, Callie Zink, and Kaden Baird pose for a photo at 2023 International Leadership Conference and Competition in Dallas, Texas in June. The students represented several healthcare programs at Barton including Emergency Medical Services, Nursing, Medical Lab Technician, and Pharmacy Technician.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe Vinduska Students from Barton’s chapter of HOSA (Future Health Professionals) joined almost 11,000 students in Dallas, Texas earlier this summer at the 2023 International Leadership Conference (ILC), where they competed against students from all 50 states as well as students from Korea, China, Canada, Puerto Rico, and America Samoa.In addition to the competition, participants could attend many leadership and healthcare-related symposiums, and visit the EXPO with over 300 different booths representing products, equipment, universities, and other student resources. They also enjoyed a presentation from keynote speaker Admiral Brett Giroir, the United States Assistant Secretary of Health from 2018-2021.Barton Director of Medical Laboratory Technology Karen Gunther said of the six Barton students who qualified for the ILC, Kaden Baird, Callie Zink, and Valeria Gallardo were able to attend and compete. She said all three students made it to the finals round. Baird finished second place overall in the medical assisting competition, Zink finished in the top five in cultural diversity and disparities, and Gallardo placed second overall in the clinical laboratory science competition.Gunther is part of the ILC Competitive Event Committee, and along with the 29 other members of the committee, arranged and organized all the events including the written exams, skills, teamwork, and leadership competitive events offered at this year's conference. She said this event helps the students learn far beyond the reach of what is possible in any classroom or lab and that the group was able to go on this trip thanks to very generous donations.“On behalf of HOSA, I would like to thank everyone who helped us get to Dallas and compete,” she said. “We are so proud of all our students for how well they represented Kansas and Barton Community College during their week in Dallas and how hard they competed. The networking opportunities they experienced, coupled with the exposure they had to various workshops and equipment demonstrations will help them be even more knowledgeable as they navigate their education and careers.”HOSA is a global, student-led organization recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services. The group’s mission is to empower members to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and experience. HOSA actively promotes career opportunities in the health industry and aims to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.To learn more, please contact Gunther at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:guntherka@bartonccc.edu">guntherka@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 786-1133.

Barton healthcare students place in international competition

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Seth Kastle, assistant professor of Leadership Studies and Military Program Innovation director at Fort Hays State University, about his background and the ways FHSU works to connect with members of the U.S. Miltary.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qcrm085RnVc" 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 Seth Kastle, assistant professor of Leadership Studies and Military Program Innovation director at Fort Hays State University, about his background and the ways FHSU works to connect with members of the U.S. Miltary.

Forward Ever: FHSU Military Program Innovation director Seth Kastle

Great Bend Public Library events: July 2023&nbsp;

All library events are free to the public and do not require a library card to attend. There are even more events available for you to see at our website: <a href="https://greatbendpl.info/" target="_blank">https://greatbendpl.info</a>&nbsp;

Dan Dan the Magic Man&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday, July 12 at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;

Celebrating over 20 years of sharing magic, our favorite magician and crew are back to take us on another mesmerizing adventure. Get ready to be amazed by magical feats, comedy, and fun!&nbsp;

Lakeside Trivia Night at Dry Lake Brewing&nbsp;&nbsp; Thursday, July 13 at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Do you know what the deepest lake in the world is? How about who the star player of the Lakers is? How well do you know your watercraft? If it's got lake in the name or even if it's just related to lakes get ready to test your knowledge of it at our next trivia night Lakeside Trivia on Thursday, July 13! Grab a team or go it solo at the aptly named Dry Lake Brewery. Sign up now at greatbendpl.info to add your team to the roster (limit of&nbsp; 4 per team).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rolling Hills Zoo&nbsp; Thursday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;

This "What’s In My Backyard? Zoo to You" presentation is jam-packed with fun! The interactive lessons will include hands-on activities with bio-facts and an introduction to three live animals.&nbsp;

Teen Manga &amp; Anime Club&nbsp; Thursday, July 20 at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

New and seasoned Japanese visual culture fans are invited to join our club! For the summer, we’ll be meeting once to enjoy popcorn and the anime movie Your Name.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Teen Café&nbsp; Friday, July 21 at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Stop by the Teen Spot for a cup of joe and to make buttons.&nbsp; Make your own pieces of flair to show&nbsp;&nbsp;off on your clothing or bag (limit 2 per teen).&nbsp;

How a Guitar Works&nbsp;&nbsp; Monday, July 17 at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Join us and special guest, Robert Kaplafka as he teaches us about how guitars make those wonderful sounds. From the earliest guitars to today's screaming electric monsters, this illustrated lecture explains in simple terms how these works of art, create art. The program will also cover the creation of one of the world's strangest custom guitars. If you’re a music buff, a guitar aficionado, or maybe just a fan of learning the inner workings of the things around you this is sure to be a presentation you won't want to miss. This presentation will be made live at the Great Bend Public Library via Zoom for those wishing to attend but unable to make it to the library for any reason the Zoom link will be available upon request.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harry Potter House Party&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Friday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. (4th grade to Adult)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Which Hogwarts house do you belong to? Experience a magical night of fun, where you will get sorted into your house, participate in a game of live-action Clue, test your knowledge with some Hogwarts trivia, make crafts, and decorate your own cupcake. There will be plenty of friendly competition at our big house party!&nbsp;

***Reserve your spot at greatbendpl.info by July 14

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657069429840.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Public Library events: July 2023&nbsp;All library events are free to the public and do not require a library card to attend. There are even more events available for you to see at our website: <a href="https://greatbendpl.info/" target="_blank">https://greatbendpl.info</a>&nbsp;Dan Dan the Magic Man&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday, July 12 at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;Celebrating over 20 years of sharing magic, our favorite magician and crew are back to take us on another mesmerizing adventure. Get ready to be amazed by magical feats, comedy, and fun!&nbsp;Lakeside Trivia Night at Dry Lake Brewing&nbsp;&nbsp; Thursday, July 13 at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;Do you know what the deepest lake in the world is? How about who the star player of the Lakers is? How well do you know your watercraft? If it's got lake in the name or even if it's just related to lakes get ready to test your knowledge of it at our next trivia night Lakeside Trivia on Thursday, July 13! Grab a team or go it solo at the aptly named Dry Lake Brewery. Sign up now at greatbendpl.info to add your team to the roster (limit of&nbsp; 4 per team).&nbsp;&nbsp;Rolling Hills Zoo&nbsp; Thursday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;This "What’s In My Backyard? Zoo to You" presentation is jam-packed with fun! The interactive lessons will include hands-on activities with bio-facts and an introduction to three live animals.&nbsp;Teen Manga &amp; Anime Club&nbsp; Thursday, July 20 at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;New and seasoned Japanese visual culture fans are invited to join our club! For the summer, we’ll be meeting once to enjoy popcorn and the anime movie Your Name.&nbsp;&nbsp;Teen Café&nbsp; Friday, July 21 at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;Stop by the Teen Spot for a cup of joe and to make buttons.&nbsp; Make your own pieces of flair to show&nbsp;&nbsp;off on your clothing or bag (limit 2 per teen).&nbsp;How a Guitar Works&nbsp;&nbsp; Monday, July 17 at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;Join us and special guest, Robert Kaplafka as he teaches us about how guitars make those wonderful sounds. From the earliest guitars to today's screaming electric monsters, this illustrated lecture explains in simple terms how these works of art, create art. The program will also cover the creation of one of the world's strangest custom guitars. If you’re a music buff, a guitar aficionado, or maybe just a fan of learning the inner workings of the things around you this is sure to be a presentation you won't want to miss. This presentation will be made live at the Great Bend Public Library via Zoom for those wishing to attend but unable to make it to the library for any reason the Zoom link will be available upon request.&nbsp;&nbsp;Harry Potter House Party&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Friday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. (4th grade to Adult)&nbsp;&nbsp;Which Hogwarts house do you belong to? Experience a magical night of fun, where you will get sorted into your house, participate in a game of live-action Clue, test your knowledge with some Hogwarts trivia, make crafts, and decorate your own cupcake. There will be plenty of friendly competition at our big house party!&nbsp;***Reserve your spot at greatbendpl.info by July 14

Great Bend Public Library events in July

The Barton Arts Movement announced that Hoisington student Chance Mitchell was voted the People's Choice Award Winner on Friday, June 30 during the group's 2nd Annual Art Alley Pop-Up Gallery and Competition. 

Over a dozen local artists displayed 16"x 20" canvas artwork for the public to enjoy in conjunction with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreatBendisAlive/" target="_blank">Final Fridays on Forest</a> activities. Guests at the pop-up gallery voted on their favorites, and Chance Mitchell's painting received the most votes from the crowd. Mitchell received a "BAMMY" award as well as public recognition.

Mitchell is the son of Jonathan Mitchell and Lindsey Reif, DVM in Hoisington. He will be entering the eighth grade at Hoisington Middle School this fall. 

"I've been doing art since preschool, and my favorite type of art is painting with acrylic paints," Mitchell said. "I found a picture online of this sunset and knew I wanted to paint it. I often look online for inspiration."

Chance plans to pursue a career as an exotic animal veterinarian when he grows up. Outside of school, he also dances at Alys Dance Studio on their competition team, and enjoys all types of art. Mitchell participated in the Art Alley in 2022, but did not win an award until 2023. 

"If you are not sure if you should show your art, you should do it anyways," Mitchell said. "It doesn't matter what other people think of you, but only what you think of yourself. Don't give up."

The Art Alley pop-up gallery and competition is just one of many projects being led by the Barton Arts Movement this year. The group has completed two murals in 2023, with plans for at least two more before the summer is over. Anyone interested in following the group's events and projects can follow BAM on their Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement</a>.

The Barton Arts Movement is driven by volunteers and operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the <a href="http://www.goldenbeltcf.org/" target="_blank">Golden Belt Community Foundation</a>, a 501c3 not-for-profit organization. The group has already completed two murals in 2023, with plans for at least two more before the season is over. Anyone interested in following the group's events and projects can follow BAM on their Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement</a>. Or, learn more at <a href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/" target="_blank">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688663956285.jpeg" alt="Pictured with Chance Mitchell is BAM volunteer Sergio Ramirez, an art teacher for USD 428, who coordinated this year's Art Alley." />
 <figcaption>Pictured with Chance Mitchell is BAM volunteer Sergio Ramirez, an art teacher for USD 428, who coordinated this year's Art Alley.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Arts Movement announced that Hoisington student Chance Mitchell was voted the People's Choice Award Winner on Friday, June 30 during the group's 2nd Annual Art Alley Pop-Up Gallery and Competition. Over a dozen local artists displayed 16"x 20" canvas artwork for the public to enjoy in conjunction with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreatBendisAlive/" target="_blank">Final Fridays on Forest</a> activities. Guests at the pop-up gallery voted on their favorites, and Chance Mitchell's painting received the most votes from the crowd. Mitchell received a "BAMMY" award as well as public recognition.<figure>
 <img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/866064_fa1a23ae6e664fa49fa795bb6ff111b0~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_328,h_416,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/866064_fa1a23ae6e664fa49fa795bb6ff111b0~mv2.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mitchell is the son of Jonathan Mitchell and Lindsey Reif, DVM in Hoisington. He will be entering the eighth grade at Hoisington Middle School this fall. "I've been doing art since preschool, and my favorite type of art is painting with acrylic paints," Mitchell said. "I found a picture online of this sunset and knew I wanted to paint it. I often look online for inspiration."Chance plans to pursue a career as an exotic animal veterinarian when he grows up. Outside of school, he also dances at Alys Dance Studio on their competition team, and enjoys all types of art. Mitchell participated in the Art Alley in 2022, but did not win an award until 2023. "If you are not sure if you should show your art, you should do it anyways," Mitchell said. "It doesn't matter what other people think of you, but only what you think of yourself. Don't give up."The Art Alley pop-up gallery and competition is just one of many projects being led by the Barton Arts Movement this year. The group has completed two murals in 2023, with plans for at least two more before the summer is over. Anyone interested in following the group's events and projects can follow BAM on their Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement</a>.The Barton Arts Movement is driven by volunteers and operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the <a href="http://www.goldenbeltcf.org/" target="_blank">Golden Belt Community Foundation</a>, a 501c3 not-for-profit organization. The group has already completed two murals in 2023, with plans for at least two more before the season is over. Anyone interested in following the group's events and projects can follow BAM on their Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement</a>. Or, learn more at <a href="http://www.bartonartsmovement.com/" target="_blank">www.BartonArtsMovement.com</a>.

Hoisington student wins Art Alley competition

The deadline to sign up for Great Bend Economic Development’s
entrepreneur competition has passed, and 31 individuals signed up to pitch
their idea for a new business or invention in Barton County. A local
entrepreneurship board will narrow down the entries to 20 to compete in the
next round. 

Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger was pleased with the turnout
with the first competition. "It's a very diverse base of businesses," said Arnberger. "They're all very different. We have four contestants from outside of Barton County. If they compete in the final show and win, they are bringing their business and moving to Barton County."

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ae433532-6755-433a-8ada-3e08cd8c3299">RELATED STORY: Great Bend Economic Development launches entrepreneurship competition</a> 
The next phase of the competition will pair the contestants with a local
business mentor and a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) representative
that can help them hone in on their business plan more. 
Eventually, chosen contestants will present before the IGNITE Rural Business
team. Finalists will present their business plan at the Crest Theater in Great
Bend on Oct. 5 where the winner receives $50,000 to assist
their business startup, followed by $30,000 for second place and $10,000 for
third place.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669042239159.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe deadline to sign up for Great Bend Economic Development’s
entrepreneur competition has passed, and 31 individuals signed up to pitch
their idea for a new business or invention in Barton County. A local
entrepreneurship board will narrow down the entries to 20 to compete in the
next round. Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger was pleased with the turnout
with the first competition. "It's a very diverse base of businesses," said Arnberger. "They're all very different. We have four contestants from outside of Barton County. If they compete in the final show and win, they are bringing their business and moving to Barton County."<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ae433532-6755-433a-8ada-3e08cd8c3299">RELATED STORY: Great Bend Economic Development launches entrepreneurship competition</a> 
The next phase of the competition will pair the contestants with a local
business mentor and a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) representative
that can help them hone in on their business plan more. 
Eventually, chosen contestants will present before the IGNITE Rural Business
team. Finalists will present their business plan at the Crest Theater in Great
Bend on Oct. 5 where the winner receives $50,000 to assist
their business startup, followed by $30,000 for second place and $10,000 for
third place.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

31 entrepreneurs sign up for Barton Co. business competition

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Independence Day is a celebration of all things freedom. The timing was just right for a new gun store in Russell. On July 1, Alpha 7 Outdoors Pro Shop held its grand opening. Owner Chuck Martin operates a plumbing business in the Kansas City area and wanted to start something new in an area he knows well.

"I was in the oilfield out here off and on since 2016," he said. "I hunted out here every year. The building I used to lease a portion of came up for sale. I decided to take a chance, and I turned it into lodging and a training facility."

The gun shop is attached to a 2,400-square-foot simunition shoot house located at 24 S. Lincoln St. in Russell. 	The business also includes a live-fire shooting range six miles north of Russell. The ex-military police officer Martin and other trained individuals want to teach everything from how to properly store firearms in the home to full-on tactical training.

The gun shop currently has about 120 guns for sale, ranging from $150 small-caliber pistols to high-end rifles. With 12 gun sales at the grand opening alone, Martin plans to grow the inventory.

"In a perfect world, in a larger city, I'd probably want to ramp it up about 300 percent, but we're going to 20 percent for now," he said. "Keep learning the community, let the foot traffic find us."

Alpha 7 Outdoors Pro Shop is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments can be made outside of those hours by emailing sales@alpha7outdoors.com. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688571383483.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIndependence Day is a celebration of all things freedom. The timing was just right for a new gun store in Russell. On July 1, Alpha 7 Outdoors Pro Shop held its grand opening. Owner Chuck Martin operates a plumbing business in the Kansas City area and wanted to start something new in an area he knows well."I was in the oilfield out here off and on since 2016," he said. "I hunted out here every year. The building I used to lease a portion of came up for sale. I decided to take a chance, and I turned it into lodging and a training facility."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688571413806.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The gun shop is attached to a 2,400-square-foot simunition shoot house located at 24 S. Lincoln St. in Russell. 	The business also includes a live-fire shooting range six miles north of Russell. The ex-military police officer Martin and other trained individuals want to teach everything from how to properly store firearms in the home to full-on tactical training.The gun shop currently has about 120 guns for sale, ranging from $150 small-caliber pistols to high-end rifles. With 12 gun sales at the grand opening alone, Martin plans to grow the inventory."In a perfect world, in a larger city, I'd probably want to ramp it up about 300 percent, but we're going to 20 percent for now," he said. "Keep learning the community, let the foot traffic find us."Alpha 7 Outdoors Pro Shop is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments can be made outside of those hours by emailing sales@alpha7outdoors.com.

New training facility, gun shop opens in Russell

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/6) 
 
Gas Leak / Spill 
 
At 4:11 a.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at A. Street &amp; E. K-4 Highway in
Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:18 a.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of W. Barton County
Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:19 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road &amp; N.
Washington Avenue. 
 
Cardiac / Respiratory 
 
At 11:22 a.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 244 SE 10 Road in
Ellinwood. 
 
Theft 
 
At 12:50 p.m. a theft was reported at 656 W. Barton County Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; NE 160
Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 3 p.m. a fire was reported at 364 NW 80 Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/6) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 4 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp; Holland. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 7:30 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 6000 block of Broadway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:19 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road &amp; N.
Washington Avenue. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:25 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th &amp; 281
Bypass. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:58 p.m. a dog call was reported at 1721 12th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 4:21 p.m. theft of a single-wheel trailer was reported at 2119 281 Bypass. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 9:39 p.m. an accident was reported at 3929 10th Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 11:24 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at 10th &amp; Hubbard. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:41 p.m. a white truck driving around the area was reported in the 1200
block of Roosevelt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/6) 
 
Gas Leak / Spill 
 
At 4:11 a.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at A. Street &amp; E. K-4 Highway in
Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:18 a.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of W. Barton County
Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:19 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road &amp; N.
Washington Avenue. 
 
Cardiac / Respiratory 
 
At 11:22 a.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 244 SE 10 Road in
Ellinwood. 
 
Theft 
 
At 12:50 p.m. a theft was reported at 656 W. Barton County Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:15 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; NE 160
Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 3 p.m. a fire was reported at 364 NW 80 Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (7/6) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 4 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp; Holland. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 7:30 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 6000 block of Broadway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:19 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road &amp; N.
Washington Avenue. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:25 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th &amp; 281
Bypass. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:58 p.m. a dog call was reported at 1721 12th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 4:21 p.m. theft of a single-wheel trailer was reported at 2119 281 Bypass. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 9:39 p.m. an accident was reported at 3929 10th Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 11:24 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at 10th &amp; Hubbard. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 11:41 p.m. a white truck driving around the area was reported in the 1200
block of Roosevelt.

Cop Shop (7/6)

7/6 BOOKED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Dawn Davis on Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Sheldon Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $1,148 cash only.

BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Sr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear and Unlawfully Obtain Prescription Drugs, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Paraphernalia, with time served to Community Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/6 BOOKED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Dawn Davis on Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Sheldon Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $1,148 cash only.BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Sr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear and Unlawfully Obtain Prescription Drugs, by order of the court.RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Paraphernalia, with time served to Community Corrections.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/6)

The city of Great Bend's transition to automated water meter readers has not been without its glitches. Public Works Director Jason Cauley announced at the June 19 city council meeting that 237 retrofits had been ordered to complete the project. His department also continues to work on leaks. So far, the city has reduced the number of leaks from around 70 to approximately 40.

"Part of it is old infrastructure," Cauley said. "Part of it was a gasket that the vendor suggested to be used. We found that the gasket does not seal well so we switched to a different type of gasket. That's what some of those are from, but a lot of it is from aging infrastructure."

City crews are using a pair of solutions to address the leaks. Parts are on order for the easier of the two solutions. Crews will revert to the other solution until those parts arrive.

"We've used up all the parts for a basic repair," said Cauley. "Now we are getting into where we will have to dig up the service and replace the whole service because those are the parts we have because we are waiting for the parts for those simple repairs."

Cauley said that makes a timeline for the repair of all leaks tricky. The city will continue to prioritize leaks that cause the greatest amount of stress. "Just know that we are continually working on it until we get it done," he said. "I foresee it taking at least another month or so to get through what we have." 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688652530911.jpeg" alt="Sandbags were placed in an easement behind several residences near Great Bend High School to cordon off water from a meter leak. A resident has complained about the issue of standing water and mosquitoes and other issues." />
 <figcaption>Sandbags were placed in an easement behind several residences near Great Bend High School to cordon off water from a meter leak. A resident has complained about the issue of standing water and mosquitoes and other issues.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe city of Great Bend's transition to automated water meter readers has not been without its glitches. Public Works Director Jason Cauley announced at the June 19 city council meeting that 237 retrofits had been ordered to complete the project. His department also continues to work on leaks. So far, the city has reduced the number of leaks from around 70 to approximately 40."Part of it is old infrastructure," Cauley said. "Part of it was a gasket that the vendor suggested to be used. We found that the gasket does not seal well so we switched to a different type of gasket. That's what some of those are from, but a lot of it is from aging infrastructure."City crews are using a pair of solutions to address the leaks. Parts are on order for the easier of the two solutions. Crews will revert to the other solution until those parts arrive."We've used up all the parts for a basic repair," said Cauley. "Now we are getting into where we will have to dig up the service and replace the whole service because those are the parts we have because we are waiting for the parts for those simple repairs."Cauley said that makes a timeline for the repair of all leaks tricky. The city will continue to prioritize leaks that cause the greatest amount of stress. "Just know that we are continually working on it until we get it done," he said. "I foresee it taking at least another month or so to get through what we have."

City of Great Bend continues to work on water leaks

Today Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 10 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 78. South-southeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tonight A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. East-southeast wind 7 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight.

Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North-northeast wind around 11 mph.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 60. East-northeast wind around 9 mph.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 81. Southeast wind 6 to 8 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 88.

Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 93.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 71.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 95.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 68.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 10 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 78. South-southeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Tonight A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. East-southeast wind 7 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight.Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North-northeast wind around 11 mph.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 60. East-northeast wind around 9 mph.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 81. Southeast wind 6 to 8 mph.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.Monday Sunny, with a high near 88.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 93.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 71.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 95.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 68.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Summer fun has officially arrived. The Fourth of July Holiday is in the books, and the Barton County Fair follows from July 5-9. Right after that, the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival begins on Thursday, July 13. AHF Committee Co-Chair Nancy Baird said the festival begins in the water with cardboard boat races at the Ellinwood City Pool that Thursday at 9 a.m.

"The Ellinwood City Pool, they organize and they do all that," she said. "They do such an awesome job. The pool is just a huge gem in our community. We're lucky to have such a wonderful staff and pool in our community."

Fun continues in downtown Ellinwood Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. with the community barbecue that features free barrel train rides, jumbo yard games, face painting, and inflatables. Baird reminds everyone that the After Harvest Festival is a family-friendly event made possible by various sponsors. "We try to offer a lot of things that families can do together, and we try to offer those at basically no cost," she said.

New this year is Family Fun Bingo at the Ellinwood Community Library on Friday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Library Director Sheri Holmes helped organize the event, and Wayne and Terry DeWerff will call the old-fashioned game with bingo slide cards. Area businesses have donated prizes for the game.

"That's fun for all ages," Baird said. "Whether you've got young grandkids that are staying with you, or you're somebody that doesn't really want to be out in the heat and would love to find an air-conditioned activity, or maybe you're a senior citizen and you're looking for something to do with a group of your friends. This will be a perfect activity for that."

Baird also reminded festival fans to get their 50th-anniversary t-shirts ahead of the big event. A limited quantity of shirts are available at Sunflower Bank and Peoples Bank and Trust in Ellinwood during regular business hours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688393167143.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSummer fun has officially arrived. The Fourth of July Holiday is in the books, and the Barton County Fair follows from July 5-9. Right after that, the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival begins on Thursday, July 13. AHF Committee Co-Chair Nancy Baird said the festival begins in the water with cardboard boat races at the Ellinwood City Pool that Thursday at 9 a.m."The Ellinwood City Pool, they organize and they do all that," she said. "They do such an awesome job. The pool is just a huge gem in our community. We're lucky to have such a wonderful staff and pool in our community."Fun continues in downtown Ellinwood Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. with the community barbecue that features free barrel train rides, jumbo yard games, face painting, and inflatables. Baird reminds everyone that the After Harvest Festival is a family-friendly event made possible by various sponsors. "We try to offer a lot of things that families can do together, and we try to offer those at basically no cost," she said.New this year is Family Fun Bingo at the Ellinwood Community Library on Friday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Library Director Sheri Holmes helped organize the event, and Wayne and Terry DeWerff will call the old-fashioned game with bingo slide cards. Area businesses have donated prizes for the game."That's fun for all ages," Baird said. "Whether you've got young grandkids that are staying with you, or you're somebody that doesn't really want to be out in the heat and would love to find an air-conditioned activity, or maybe you're a senior citizen and you're looking for something to do with a group of your friends. This will be a perfect activity for that."Baird also reminded festival fans to get their 50th-anniversary t-shirts ahead of the big event. A limited quantity of shirts are available at Sunflower Bank and Peoples Bank and Trust in Ellinwood during regular business hours.

Families welcome at 50th After Harvest Festival with boat races, bingo

On June 14, Maurices, a women’s fashion brand, celebrated 15 years at their current location on 10th Street in Great Bend.

With a mission to empower women to be themselves, the company has created an inviting, caring and enjoyable environment that resonates with everyone who walks through its doors. Store Manager Bailey Zink spoke to customers, employees, and Chamber Ambassadors reiterating Maurice’s commitment to the local community and its dedication to fostering meaningful connections. 

Maurices extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community of Great Bend for their unwavering support over the past 15 years and looks forward to many more years of shared success and growth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688651259088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...On June 14, Maurices, a women’s fashion brand, celebrated 15 years at their current location on 10th Street in Great Bend.With a mission to empower women to be themselves, the company has created an inviting, caring and enjoyable environment that resonates with everyone who walks through its doors. Store Manager Bailey Zink spoke to customers, employees, and Chamber Ambassadors reiterating Maurice’s commitment to the local community and its dedication to fostering meaningful connections. Maurices extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community of Great Bend for their unwavering support over the past 15 years and looks forward to many more years of shared success and growth.

Great Bend's Maurices celebrates 15 years on 10th Street

Fire prevention experts typically advise the public to soak their discharged fireworks in water before placing them in the trash. Mother nature, with rains expected through the weekend, may help take care of that this year. Still, Great Bend Code Enforcement Supervisor Art Keffer reminds citizens that fireworks need to be cleaned up in a timely manner.

"We're going to give them this week to clean it up," he said. "Come Monday, we'll go around. If they've still got stuff just sitting on the ground we'll probably send them a reminder to pick it up a dispose of it properly. We're going to try to be reasonable, but at the same time, you shot it up, let's clean it up."

Do not place discarded fireworks in recycling or yard waste containers. Unused fireworks should be stored in a cool, dry place away from electrical appliances.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688586199164.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFire prevention experts typically advise the public to soak their discharged fireworks in water before placing them in the trash. Mother nature, with rains expected through the weekend, may help take care of that this year. Still, Great Bend Code Enforcement Supervisor Art Keffer reminds citizens that fireworks need to be cleaned up in a timely manner."We're going to give them this week to clean it up," he said. "Come Monday, we'll go around. If they've still got stuff just sitting on the ground we'll probably send them a reminder to pick it up a dispose of it properly. We're going to try to be reasonable, but at the same time, you shot it up, let's clean it up."Do not place discarded fireworks in recycling or yard waste containers. Unused fireworks should be stored in a cool, dry place away from electrical appliances.

Great Bend Code Enforcement: Pick up used fireworks in timely manner

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark that aired July 5, 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/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark that aired July 5, 2023.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Police Chief Haulmark" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ei5su-144cc39-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: City Edition - Police Chief Haulmark

The Kansas Army National Guard Armory is looking to expand its
location near the Great Bend Municipal Airport, just east of Great Bend Expo
Complex. The armory will be working on larger vehicles and adding to their
fleet maintenance service. 

As plans developed, BG Consultants was notified to
develop a plan to improve water service to the armory's facilities to allow for the
addition of the current building. Thaniel Monaco, BG’s Head of Environmental
Engineering, said the project will upgrade part of the waterline from an 8" to
12" pipe. "To meet the demand for what we need for water flow and pressure, we're going to upgrade the city's wells out there with a control system," said Monaco. "It will be tagged into the new building's fire control system. If there is a call, it will turn on both wells at the same time." 
The City of Great Bend will incur no cost for the improvement with the federal
government paying for the upgrade to the armory. Once the waterline upgrades
are finished, it will be handed over to the city and become part of Great Bend’s
system. 
"This will push that water out to other users," said Monaco. "The largest user is north of 8th Street. We're going to push the water towards there so they'll be able to facility that easier. This shouldn't create any issues for anyone, but it will certainly create a better scenario out at the Expo and armory area." 
Monaco said out of the four submitted bids, the low bid was received at
approximately $837,000 for the waterline upgrade. In a separate project, the
National Guard is also making upgrades to the interior of the Great Bend
armory.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688154293671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Kansas Army National Guard Armory is looking to expand its
location near the Great Bend Municipal Airport, just east of Great Bend Expo
Complex. The armory will be working on larger vehicles and adding to their
fleet maintenance service. As plans developed, BG Consultants was notified to
develop a plan to improve water service to the armory's facilities to allow for the
addition of the current building. Thaniel Monaco, BG’s Head of Environmental
Engineering, said the project will upgrade part of the waterline from an 8" to
12" pipe. "To meet the demand for what we need for water flow and pressure, we're going to upgrade the city's wells out there with a control system," said Monaco. "It will be tagged into the new building's fire control system. If there is a call, it will turn on both wells at the same time." 
The City of Great Bend will incur no cost for the improvement with the federal
government paying for the upgrade to the armory. Once the waterline upgrades
are finished, it will be handed over to the city and become part of Great Bend’s
system. 
"This will push that water out to other users," said Monaco. "The largest user is north of 8th Street. We're going to push the water towards there so they'll be able to facility that easier. This shouldn't create any issues for anyone, but it will certainly create a better scenario out at the Expo and armory area." 
Monaco said out of the four submitted bids, the low bid was received at
approximately $837,000 for the waterline upgrade. In a separate project, the
National Guard is also making upgrades to the interior of the Great Bend
armory.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

National Guard Armory expansion to upgrade waterline near Great Bend airport

The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) has already completed two murals this season (one in Claflin and one in Great Bend on Dilly &amp; Doc), with two more "big ones" coming in August. 

A sunflower themed mural with a live edge will wrap around the front and side of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce office at 1125 Williams. 

Another mural will be placed on the east side of 2602 10th Street, facing 10th &amp; Washington. This big one at 10th &amp; Washington is mid-fundraising and BAM has a fun and interactive fundraising contest on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement">Facebook</a> page right now.&nbsp;

The size of the 10th &amp; Washington mural will be 30' x 14',&nbsp; approximately 420 square feet. Whitney Hayden, out of Houston, TX, has been contracted to complete the mural. The cost of the project is $14,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688661782010.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Arts Movement (BAM) has already completed two murals this season (one in Claflin and one in Great Bend on Dilly &amp; Doc), with two more "big ones" coming in August. A sunflower themed mural with a live edge will wrap around the front and side of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce office at 1125 Williams. Another mural will be placed on the east side of 2602 10th Street, facing 10th &amp; Washington. This big one at 10th &amp; Washington is mid-fundraising and BAM has a fun and interactive fundraising contest on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bartonartsmovement">Facebook</a> page right now.&nbsp;The size of the 10th &amp; Washington mural will be 30' x 14',&nbsp; approximately 420 square feet. Whitney Hayden, out of Houston, TX, has been contracted to complete the mural. The cost of the project is $14,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688661923008.jpeg" alt="Christina Hayes with the City of Great Bend and Matt Hiss with the Great Bend Foundation present a combined $5,000 in grant funding to Rachel Mawhirter with the Barton Arts Movement to help fund the new mural being installed at 10th &amp; Washington in Great Bend later this summer." />
 <figcaption>Christina Hayes with the City of Great Bend and Matt Hiss with the Great Bend Foundation present a combined $5,000 in grant funding to Rachel Mawhirter with the Barton Arts Movement to help fund the new mural being installed at 10th &amp; Washington in Great Bend later this summer.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688661953944.jpeg" alt="Chet Cale and Karen Kline-Martin with the Barton Arts Council present $3,000 grant funding to Regan Reif with the Barton Arts Movement to help fund the new mural being installed at 10th &amp; Washington in Great Bend later this summer." />
 <figcaption>Chet Cale and Karen Kline-Martin with the Barton Arts Council present $3,000 grant funding to Regan Reif with the Barton Arts Movement to help fund the new mural being installed at 10th &amp; Washington in Great Bend later this summer.</figcaption>
 </figure>

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