By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Most state and national offices will be closed for Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4. Fort Larned National Historic Site will remain open with free programming for the public. Parker Ranger Ben Long said the fun begins at 10 a.m. with a blacksmith demonstration and builds to several firings of a howitzer cannon.

"At 1:00, we're going to have a hands-on program where folks can learn the different steps to load and fire a cannon," he said. "They can actually handle the sponge rammer, the primer wire, and things like that. We won't be able to fire then, but they'll be able to learn the various steps to load a cannon."

Howitzers were used as an infantry support weapon during the Civil War. On the plains, they helped defend wagon trains as they traveled east and west. There were orders for four howitzers to be on-site in the late 1860s. Per Army orders of 1861, the cannon will be fired at noon on July 4 as part of a salute to the flag.

"We do have a record that there was a post commander who wanted to sort of go above and beyond with that," Long said. "He actually ordered that fire to commence at noon, then every hour, on the hour until retreat. That would normally be at sunset so you're looking at 9-10 firings that they would have done to salute the flag."

Ft. Larned programming begins at 10 a.m. on Independence Day, with a howitzer demonstration at 11 a.m., the flag salute at noon, and another firing at 2 p.m. following the hands-on program. A Buffalo Soldiers talk will take place at three, and the cannon will be fired one final time for the 4:30 p.m. retreat as the flag is lowered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269532908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMost state and national offices will be closed for Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4. Fort Larned National Historic Site will remain open with free programming for the public. Parker Ranger Ben Long said the fun begins at 10 a.m. with a blacksmith demonstration and builds to several firings of a howitzer cannon."At 1:00, we're going to have a hands-on program where folks can learn the different steps to load and fire a cannon," he said. "They can actually handle the sponge rammer, the primer wire, and things like that. We won't be able to fire then, but they'll be able to learn the various steps to load a cannon."Howitzers were used as an infantry support weapon during the Civil War. On the plains, they helped defend wagon trains as they traveled east and west. There were orders for four howitzers to be on-site in the late 1860s. Per Army orders of 1861, the cannon will be fired at noon on July 4 as part of a salute to the flag."We do have a record that there was a post commander who wanted to sort of go above and beyond with that," Long said. "He actually ordered that fire to commence at noon, then every hour, on the hour until retreat. That would normally be at sunset so you're looking at 9-10 firings that they would have done to salute the flag."Ft. Larned programming begins at 10 a.m. on Independence Day, with a howitzer demonstration at 11 a.m., the flag salute at noon, and another firing at 2 p.m. following the hands-on program. A Buffalo Soldiers talk will take place at three, and the cannon will be fired one final time for the 4:30 p.m. retreat as the flag is lowered.

Ft. Larned firing up the cannons as part of July 4 celebration

Hearing the words “what a kind, compassionate child you’ve raised” is often one of the greatest compliments a parent can receive as they turn their young person out into the world.

The foundation for this empathy, says Kansas State University child development specialist Bradford Wiles, happens early in life.

“Children start to figure out that other people have different beliefs, thoughts and desires other than their own at about the age of three,” Wiles said. “This is a crucial time to teach them to appreciate and enjoy other people’s perspectives.”

Before that, he said children can recognize differences in the way people dress or skin color, but they don’t have any opinions — positive or negative — about that.

“As children grow up, they are exposed to our family, regional and local community cultures, and if your family culture is one of acceptance and embracing others, children will pick up on that,” Wiles said.

Embracing others ties to the skill of empathy, Wiles said.

“Empathy is being able to appreciate and understand someone else’s perspective; it’s putting yourself in their place, which is different than sympathy where you feel bad for others,” Wiles said. “Empathy is also different than tolerating something unpalatable.”

He cited the example of how when sitting in a waiting room a person might tolerate overhearing a cell phone conversation, but those who can empathize have an appreciation for what is being discussed in that conversation even if it is something that they personally don’t have an experience with.

And children who learn empathy at a young age often grow into adults who can navigate social situations and perform well as members of a team, Wiles said.

“Research has shown that people who express empathy are able to better work with other people to solve problems in the workforce,” he said.

“It starts with family modeling; if you have friends from diverse backgrounds, make sure your children interact with them and it isn’t just people of different cultures,” Wiles said. “In the U.S.

there tends to be a lack of empathy for people who are low income. For some, the perception is that poor people don’t work hard, and while that may be true for a small subset, the vast majority are working hard to maintain a level of poverty.”

To help children cross those cultures Wiles encourages parents to demonstrate empathy by volunteering in the community or in school where children can see them engaging with others and modeling that all people have worth, even if they are different.

“Through volunteer work, parents can demonstrate to children that all people have value, and they are richer for those interactions,” Wiles said.

Another way to model empathy is to expose children to a wide range of books and have family discussions about the story, Wiles said. He explains that through books, children can be exposed to characters who are developmentally delayed or physically challenged, come from another culture or are from a different social class, among other differences.

“One of the best things about books is that the characters provide early opportunities for a parent to facilitate a discussion with the child by asking ‘What do you think that character is thinking about?’ and that forces the child to engage in the process of empathy,” Wiles said.

More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hearing the words “what a kind, compassionate child you’ve raised” is often one of the greatest compliments a parent can receive as they turn their young person out into the world.The foundation for this empathy, says Kansas State University child development specialist Bradford Wiles, happens early in life.“Children start to figure out that other people have different beliefs, thoughts and desires other than their own at about the age of three,” Wiles said. “This is a crucial time to teach them to appreciate and enjoy other people’s perspectives.”Before that, he said children can recognize differences in the way people dress or skin color, but they don’t have any opinions — positive or negative — about that.“As children grow up, they are exposed to our family, regional and local community cultures, and if your family culture is one of acceptance and embracing others, children will pick up on that,” Wiles said.Embracing others ties to the skill of empathy, Wiles said.“Empathy is being able to appreciate and understand someone else’s perspective; it’s putting yourself in their place, which is different than sympathy where you feel bad for others,” Wiles said. “Empathy is also different than tolerating something unpalatable.”He cited the example of how when sitting in a waiting room a person might tolerate overhearing a cell phone conversation, but those who can empathize have an appreciation for what is being discussed in that conversation even if it is something that they personally don’t have an experience with.And children who learn empathy at a young age often grow into adults who can navigate social situations and perform well as members of a team, Wiles said.“Research has shown that people who express empathy are able to better work with other people to solve problems in the workforce,” he said.So how is empathy developed?“It starts with family modeling; if you have friends from diverse backgrounds, make sure your children interact with them and it isn’t just people of different cultures,” Wiles said. “In the U.S.there tends to be a lack of empathy for people who are low income. For some, the perception is that poor people don’t work hard, and while that may be true for a small subset, the vast majority are working hard to maintain a level of poverty.”To help children cross those cultures Wiles encourages parents to demonstrate empathy by volunteering in the community or in school where children can see them engaging with others and modeling that all people have worth, even if they are different.“Through volunteer work, parents can demonstrate to children that all people have value, and they are richer for those interactions,” Wiles said.Another way to model empathy is to expose children to a wide range of books and have family discussions about the story, Wiles said. He explains that through books, children can be exposed to characters who are developmentally delayed or physically challenged, come from another culture or are from a different social class, among other differences.“One of the best things about books is that the characters provide early opportunities for a parent to facilitate a discussion with the child by asking ‘What do you think that character is thinking about?’ and that forces the child to engage in the process of empathy,” Wiles said.More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Help young children develop empathy

The goal of Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC) is to provide affordable daycare to working parents in the county. The goal of the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator is to help counties meet childcare needs. Those goals have merged well for local residents. Wednesday morning, Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger announced that ABCC had received $2.23 million from the trust to use toward childcare in Barton County.

"It is one of the top-five awards in the state so we are extremely proud of it, and very thankful that the Children's Cabinet and Trust saw that our project was deemed worthy enough to get that much money," Arnberger said. "The funding will finish our funding for the Great Bend facility, and also the funding for one more."

Groundbreaking for the new 6,500-square-foot facility is set for Tuesday, July 11 at Farmer's Plaza, located at 10th Street and K-96 Highway in Great Bend. That facility will accommodate up to 59 children and had an initial price tag of $1.6 million. The grant will make the construction of another similar but smaller facility possible, and Arnberger said ABCC will release the location of that facility during the July 11 groundbreaking ceremony.

"Our plan was always to take childcare into the county, so it was never going to be just one center," she said. "But it always had a lengthy timeline with it. This certainly speeds things up quite a bit more than we ever anticipated. It really did exactly what the grant wanted. It's the Capacity Accelerator Grant, so this is expanding the capacity of childcare in Barton County, and it's accelerating this progress a lot more than we could have hoped for."

Arnberger credits JR Robl, a grant writer for GMLV Architecture, with writing the grant. And she credits the many donors that have already stepped forward to help make the first daycare facility a possibility.

"We've had great partners: Barton County, the Patterson Family Foundation, local donors, etc.," Arnberger said. "There have been plenty of funding partners along the way to help us get this far, and honestly, to help us be competitive for this grant. We had to have a pretty significant match to be able to get this much money."

Groundbreaking on the first facility is set for 9 a.m. on July 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678205588121.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe goal of Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC) is to provide affordable daycare to working parents in the county. The goal of the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator is to help counties meet childcare needs. Those goals have merged well for local residents. Wednesday morning, Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger announced that ABCC had received $2.23 million from the trust to use toward childcare in Barton County."It is one of the top-five awards in the state so we are extremely proud of it, and very thankful that the Children's Cabinet and Trust saw that our project was deemed worthy enough to get that much money," Arnberger said. "The funding will finish our funding for the Great Bend facility, and also the funding for one more."Groundbreaking for the new 6,500-square-foot facility is set for Tuesday, July 11 at Farmer's Plaza, located at 10th Street and K-96 Highway in Great Bend. That facility will accommodate up to 59 children and had an initial price tag of $1.6 million. The grant will make the construction of another similar but smaller facility possible, and Arnberger said ABCC will release the location of that facility during the July 11 groundbreaking ceremony."Our plan was always to take childcare into the county, so it was never going to be just one center," she said. "But it always had a lengthy timeline with it. This certainly speeds things up quite a bit more than we ever anticipated. It really did exactly what the grant wanted. It's the Capacity Accelerator Grant, so this is expanding the capacity of childcare in Barton County, and it's accelerating this progress a lot more than we could have hoped for."Arnberger credits JR Robl, a grant writer for GMLV Architecture, with writing the grant. And she credits the many donors that have already stepped forward to help make the first daycare facility a possibility."We've had great partners: Barton County, the Patterson Family Foundation, local donors, etc.," Arnberger said. "There have been plenty of funding partners along the way to help us get this far, and honestly, to help us be competitive for this grant. We had to have a pretty significant match to be able to get this much money."Groundbreaking on the first facility is set for 9 a.m. on July 11.

ABCC receives $2.23 million for childcare development in Barton Co.

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Through the Barton County Health Department’s maternal program, local
health officials will be offering “Becoming a Mom” classes. The childbirth
education consists of one class per week for six weeks. 

Bev Frizell, with the
Health Department, said the course will include discussion on health pregnancy, labor and
delivery, infant feeding, infant care, postpartum health for mothers and
pregnancy nutrition. "We talk a lot about the 'my plate' and eating appropriate servings of each of the food groups," said Frizell. "There are certain nutrients that are more important for pregnant women. They need more folic acid and iron. We also like to limit caffeine." 
The next “Becoming a Mom” session will begin on July 18. To preregister,
contact the Barton County Health Department at 620-793-1902.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633133027075.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThrough the Barton County Health Department’s maternal program, local
health officials will be offering “Becoming a Mom” classes. The childbirth
education consists of one class per week for six weeks. Bev Frizell, with the
Health Department, said the course will include discussion on health pregnancy, labor and
delivery, infant feeding, infant care, postpartum health for mothers and
pregnancy nutrition. "We talk a lot about the 'my plate' and eating appropriate servings of each of the food groups," said Frizell. "There are certain nutrients that are more important for pregnant women. They need more folic acid and iron. We also like to limit caffeine." 
The next “Becoming a Mom” session will begin on July 18. To preregister,
contact the Barton County Health Department at 620-793-1902.

‘Becoming a Mom’ course offered in Barton County

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/27) 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:17 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2401 Shawnee Dr. 
 
At 11:14 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 330 W. K-4 Highway in Hoisington. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 11:59 a.m. a child in need of care was reported at 91 NW 120 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 6:55 p.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 500 block of N. US 281
Highway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 9:40 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (6/27) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:02 a.m. an accident was reported at 2424 19th Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:51 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 408 Walnut. 
 
Prowler 
 
At 10:53 a.m. a subject thought he saw someone in his house at 3124 28th
Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 1:18 p.m. theft of a Kansas tag 640PXP was reported at 821 Morphy. It was
entered into NCIC. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:54 p.m. a report of an associate bit by a dog in a vehicle was made at
3503 10th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:37 p.m. an accident was reported at 3512 10th Street. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 4:14 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 4919 Lakin. 
 
Sex Offense 
 
At 4:59 p.m. a sex offense was reported at 2516 16th Street. 
 
Threats / Criminal Threats 
 
At 8:28 p.m. threats were reported at 908 Harrison. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 8:29 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5488 16th Street Ter. 
 
Stroke 
 
At 8:40 p.m. a stroke was reported at 2110 Harrison Street. 
 
Falls 
 
At 10:56 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park Pl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/27) 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:17 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2401 Shawnee Dr. 
 
At 11:14 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 330 W. K-4 Highway in Hoisington. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 11:59 a.m. a child in need of care was reported at 91 NW 120 Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 6:55 p.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 500 block of N. US 281
Highway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 9:40 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (6/27) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:02 a.m. an accident was reported at 2424 19th Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:51 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 408 Walnut. 
 
Prowler 
 
At 10:53 a.m. a subject thought he saw someone in his house at 3124 28th
Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 1:18 p.m. theft of a Kansas tag 640PXP was reported at 821 Morphy. It was
entered into NCIC. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 1:54 p.m. a report of an associate bit by a dog in a vehicle was made at
3503 10th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:37 p.m. an accident was reported at 3512 10th Street. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 4:14 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 4919 Lakin. 
 
Sex Offense 
 
At 4:59 p.m. a sex offense was reported at 2516 16th Street. 
 
Threats / Criminal Threats 
 
At 8:28 p.m. threats were reported at 908 Harrison. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 8:29 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5488 16th Street Ter. 
 
Stroke 
 
At 8:40 p.m. a stroke was reported at 2110 Harrison Street. 
 
Falls 
 
At 10:56 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park Pl.

Cop Shop (6/27)

Great Bend's Paige Wagner has been bowling since the age of three. Most of that time, Wagner has utilized Brunswick balls and equipment. She recently made that partnership official by announcing Monday she has joined the Brunswick Pro Staff to represent one of the premiere bowling companies at tournaments.

"We've actually been talking to the guy a little bit and he's also reached out to us," Wagner said. "We've been working with him to get it finalized. Just over this past week or so, we finally got to the point where we were signing contracts and finally made it official. It's something we've been working on for a couple of years."

Wagner capped her junior season at Great Bend High School with a 289-game and a 209 season average, both school records that stand today. She topped that by signing with Wichita State University and winning the Intercollegiate Singles Championships national title in Las Vegas in April. The new partnership is just another step toward the ultimate goal: bowling professionally.

"That is definitely another step to get closer to that part," said Wagner. "That's going to help a lot with getting to that point."

Wagner was one of 24 individual bowlers to qualify for this year's national championships. After bowling six games, she entered bracket competition as the No. 8 seed. She overcame a late foul in one match and a 7-10 split in the eighth frame of the championship match to claim the title.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687977367897.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGreat Bend's Paige Wagner has been bowling since the age of three. Most of that time, Wagner has utilized Brunswick balls and equipment. She recently made that partnership official by announcing Monday she has joined the Brunswick Pro Staff to represent one of the premiere bowling companies at tournaments."We've actually been talking to the guy a little bit and he's also reached out to us," Wagner said. "We've been working with him to get it finalized. Just over this past week or so, we finally got to the point where we were signing contracts and finally made it official. It's something we've been working on for a couple of years."Wagner capped her junior season at Great Bend High School with a 289-game and a 209 season average, both school records that stand today. She topped that by signing with Wichita State University and winning the Intercollegiate Singles Championships national title in Las Vegas in April. The new partnership is just another step toward the ultimate goal: bowling professionally."That is definitely another step to get closer to that part," said Wagner. "That's going to help a lot with getting to that point."Wagner was one of 24 individual bowlers to qualify for this year's national championships. After bowling six games, she entered bracket competition as the No. 8 seed. She overcame a late foul in one match and a 7-10 split in the eighth frame of the championship match to claim the title.

Wagner joins Brunswick Bowling's Pro Staff team

6/28 BOOKED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Araceli Cereceres on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Harassment by Telecommunication Device, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Joshua Kelly on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $813 cash only.

RELEASED: Cory Little on KDOC Arrest and Detain Order for Parole Violation, with warrant being withdrawn back to parole supervision.

RELEASED: Araceli Cereceres on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Harassment by Telecommunication Device, after posting $5,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Joseph Aiello on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after posting $15,000 surety bond through Morey and Crow Bonding Company.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/28 BOOKED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Araceli Cereceres on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Harassment by Telecommunication Device, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Joshua Kelly on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $813 cash only.RELEASED: Cory Little on KDOC Arrest and Detain Order for Parole Violation, with warrant being withdrawn back to parole supervision.RELEASED: Araceli Cereceres on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Harassment by Telecommunication Device, after posting $5,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Joseph Aiello on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after posting $15,000 surety bond through Morey and Crow Bonding Company.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/28)

The Barton County Appraiser’s Office is gearing up for their summer
relist period, or the 17% re-inspection. Kansas state statutes require counties
to review every property in the county at least once every six years to record
a fair market value for each parcel. 

This year, Barton County is focusing on
the townships of Fairview, Wheatland, Union, Beaver and Cleveland. Barton
County Appraiser Wendy Prosser said the relist will include the towns of
Beaver, Susank and Galatia, and each year her office includes a portion of the
City of Great Bend. 
"With the number of parcels, houses and businesses that are in there, the relist is the way they're chucked out," said Prosser. "When we talk about property or parcel counts, it will equal out to about 17%. It's kind of weird for the public to understand why we're jumping to different areas. That is the reason, so we're looking at enough parcels to reach about 17% each year." 
The section of Great Bend included this summer’s relist will be the residential
homes west of Patton Road to the edge of the city limits. Also on the list this
year will be portions between Patton and McKinley Street, from 17th
Street to 2nd Street; then between Harrison Street to McKinley, from
24th Street to 17th; and finally between Washington
Street to Harrison, from the northern city limits to 24th.

While the
Appraiser’s Office will view the exterior of the property, questionnaires are
sent to the public for updates on the interior. 
"We send out the questionnaires to let the public know we'll be in that area," said Prosser. "We're looking at the exteriors to see if anything has happened to the property since we were last there. We're updating photos. We're making sure we haven't lost sheds, added sheds or garages." 
The Appraiser’s Office expects to begin the summer relist on July 10 and is
anticipated to take 60 days to complete. Prosser said staff will knock on the
doors before they search the property, and all staff will be wearing Barton
County apparel with nametags.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687881977368.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Barton County Appraiser’s Office is gearing up for their summer
relist period, or the 17% re-inspection. Kansas state statutes require counties
to review every property in the county at least once every six years to record
a fair market value for each parcel. This year, Barton County is focusing on
the townships of Fairview, Wheatland, Union, Beaver and Cleveland. Barton
County Appraiser Wendy Prosser said the relist will include the towns of
Beaver, Susank and Galatia, and each year her office includes a portion of the
City of Great Bend. 
"With the number of parcels, houses and businesses that are in there, the relist is the way they're chucked out," said Prosser. "When we talk about property or parcel counts, it will equal out to about 17%. It's kind of weird for the public to understand why we're jumping to different areas. That is the reason, so we're looking at enough parcels to reach about 17% each year." 
The section of Great Bend included this summer’s relist will be the residential
homes west of Patton Road to the edge of the city limits. Also on the list this
year will be portions between Patton and McKinley Street, from 17th
Street to 2nd Street; then between Harrison Street to McKinley, from
24th Street to 17th; and finally between Washington
Street to Harrison, from the northern city limits to 24th. While the
Appraiser’s Office will view the exterior of the property, questionnaires are
sent to the public for updates on the interior. 
"We send out the questionnaires to let the public know we'll be in that area," said Prosser. "We're looking at the exteriors to see if anything has happened to the property since we were last there. We're updating photos. We're making sure we haven't lost sheds, added sheds or garages." 
The Appraiser’s Office expects to begin the summer relist on July 10 and is
anticipated to take 60 days to complete. Prosser said staff will knock on the
doors before they search the property, and all staff will be wearing Barton
County apparel with nametags.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Appraiser outlines portion of Barton Co. to be inspected

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 100. South wind 9 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 71. South wind 9 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the evening.

Thursday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 102. South-southwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. South-southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 93. Southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.

Monday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Tuesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 100. South wind 9 to 11 mph becoming west in the afternoon.Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 71. South wind 9 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the evening.Thursday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 102. South-southwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. South-southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 93. Southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Friday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.Monday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.Tuesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3UqIWUz. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting, June 28, 9 a.m. Until Close CONFERENCE ROOM – ROOM 101, COURTHOUSE

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the June 14, 2023, and the June 21, 2023, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY ENGINEER: Construction Costs for Off-System Bridge #202: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. Bids were opened on June 14, 2023, for the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Project 5 C-5205-01, replacement of OffSystem Bridge #202. The bridge crosses Walnut Creek on East Barton County Road. The low bid of $605,663.00 was submitted by L&amp;M Contractors, Inc. KDOT will pay for 85% of the project construction cost with Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) funding. Barton County is responsible for the remaining 15%. Per the KLBIP agreement, the County is to fully fund the contract up front, with KDOT reimbursing the County for 85% of the final construction cost.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT – ROUND I: Grant Deadline Extension: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. In 2021, the Commission authorized a series of Façade Improvement Grants. There are approximately eleven projects that remain unfinished. Generally these projects have been hampered by supply line and contractor issues. The Commission will be asked to extend the grant period to December 31, 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. It is anticipated that offices will be housed in the buildings located at 1520 Main, 1500 Kansas and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Central Kansas Community Corrections Advisory Board and the Behavioral Health Advisory Council will hold a joint meeting at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, June 29, 2023, at the Barton County Office Building, Juvenile Services Entrance, 1800 – 12th, Great Bend, Kansas. Elected officials may attend this meeting.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County business offices, the Health Department, the Sheriff’s Office Records Division and the Solid Waste Landfill will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Emergency services will be in normal operation. As a result of the closing, the next Commission meeting will be Tuesday, July 11, 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Great Bend Economic Development is hosting an ABCC Child Care Center Groundbreaking at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, 2023. The event will be held at Farmer’s Plaza, located on the corner of 10th Street and K-96 Highway, Great Bend, Kansas. It is anticipated that County officials may attend this event. As a result, the July 11, 2023, Commission meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the building located at 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Great Bend Economic Development – Update and Budget Meeting – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Medicalodges Academy: A Pathway to Learning and Earning overview – Brian Griffiths, President, Medicalodges.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – Budget Meeting – Levi Morris, County Attorney.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Juvenile Services staff are scheduled for June 29, 2023.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655397973849.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3UqIWUz. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting, June 28, 9 a.m. Until Close CONFERENCE ROOM – ROOM 101, COURTHOUSEI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the June 14, 2023, and the June 21, 2023, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY ENGINEER: Construction Costs for Off-System Bridge #202: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. Bids were opened on June 14, 2023, for the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Project 5 C-5205-01, replacement of OffSystem Bridge #202. The bridge crosses Walnut Creek on East Barton County Road. The low bid of $605,663.00 was submitted by L&amp;M Contractors, Inc. KDOT will pay for 85% of the project construction cost with Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) funding. Barton County is responsible for the remaining 15%. Per the KLBIP agreement, the County is to fully fund the contract up front, with KDOT reimbursing the County for 85% of the final construction cost.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT – ROUND I: Grant Deadline Extension: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. In 2021, the Commission authorized a series of Façade Improvement Grants. There are approximately eleven projects that remain unfinished. Generally these projects have been hampered by supply line and contractor issues. The Commission will be asked to extend the grant period to December 31, 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. It is anticipated that offices will be housed in the buildings located at 1520 Main, 1500 Kansas and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Central Kansas Community Corrections Advisory Board and the Behavioral Health Advisory Council will hold a joint meeting at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, June 29, 2023, at the Barton County Office Building, Juvenile Services Entrance, 1800 – 12th, Great Bend, Kansas. Elected officials may attend this meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County business offices, the Health Department, the Sheriff’s Office Records Division and the Solid Waste Landfill will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Emergency services will be in normal operation. As a result of the closing, the next Commission meeting will be Tuesday, July 11, 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Great Bend Economic Development is hosting an ABCC Child Care Center Groundbreaking at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, 2023. The event will be held at Farmer’s Plaza, located on the corner of 10th Street and K-96 Highway, Great Bend, Kansas. It is anticipated that County officials may attend this event. As a result, the July 11, 2023, Commission meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the building located at 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Great Bend Economic Development – Update and Budget Meeting – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:30 a.m. – Medicalodges Academy: A Pathway to Learning and Earning overview – Brian Griffiths, President, Medicalodges.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – Budget Meeting – Levi Morris, County Attorney.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Juvenile Services staff are scheduled for June 29, 2023.V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, 2023.VI. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (6/28)

As the new mental-health services provider at Heart of Kansas Family Health Care, Julie Belt “wants to help fill a gap that exists throughout Kansas.”

Belt is a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who brings more than two decades of nursing experience to her new position.

“I have a passion for helping people from all walks of life,” said Belt, a Great Bend native living in Larned. “Since I don’t want to be limited in who I can provide services to, I am pleased with this opportunity at Heart of Kansas to care for anyone, including those who are under-served.

“My career began when I was a certified nursing assistant in long-term care,” she added. “My desire to care for people contributed to seeking advancement in my nursing education.”

Belt noted that another reason for advancing in her career specialty is to “make others more aware of the fact that our mental health is just as important as our physical health.”

On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Belt sees patients all day in the Heart of Kansas Great Bend office, 1905 19th; she also is there from 8 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Belt is available at the Heart of Kansas Larned location, 522 Broadway, all day on Wednesdays.

She received an associate’s degree in science and nursing at Barton Community College and a bachelor’s in nursing at Tabor College of Wichita.

Next came a master’s in nursing, family nurse practitioner at Walden University. Belt earned her PMHNP credentials at Maryville University.

Belt’s most recent position was director of nursing at Diversicare of Larned. Other employers have included Quality Staffing, Rescare Inc., Larned State Hospital, Pawnee

Valley Community Hospital, Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility, Sunrise Inc., St. Joseph Memorial Hospital and HaysMed.

Achievements include a deficiency-free survey at Diversicare and helping with the development of the Licensed Mental Health Technician Program at Larned State Hospital.

“This background guides me in my new position at Heart of Kansas where everyone is friendly and welcoming,” Belt said, noting services there continue to expand.

Belt and her husband, Ryan, have five children, ranging in age from 13 to 23. Her parents live in Larned, where her father recently retired as chief of police; her mother was a registered nurse. Belt has five siblings, three of whom serve in healthcare.

Brett Middleton, Heart of Kansas chief executive officer, said “we are fortunate to have Julie on our staff. She brings a wealth of education to our team and we know our patients will benefit from her expertise and compassion.”

Heart of Kansas Family Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center, which allows it to be a safety net for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Its professional providers also welcome those with insurance at the Great Bend, Larned and Stafford locations. Heart of Kansas is open to everyone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687799874656.jpeg" alt="Julie Belt, PMHNP at Heart of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Julie Belt, PMHNP at Heart of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>As the new mental-health services provider at Heart of Kansas Family Health Care, Julie Belt “wants to help fill a gap that exists throughout Kansas.”Belt is a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who brings more than two decades of nursing experience to her new position.“I have a passion for helping people from all walks of life,” said Belt, a Great Bend native living in Larned. “Since I don’t want to be limited in who I can provide services to, I am pleased with this opportunity at Heart of Kansas to care for anyone, including those who are under-served.“My career began when I was a certified nursing assistant in long-term care,” she added. “My desire to care for people contributed to seeking advancement in my nursing education.”Belt noted that another reason for advancing in her career specialty is to “make others more aware of the fact that our mental health is just as important as our physical health.”On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Belt sees patients all day in the Heart of Kansas Great Bend office, 1905 19th; she also is there from 8 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Belt is available at the Heart of Kansas Larned location, 522 Broadway, all day on Wednesdays.She received an associate’s degree in science and nursing at Barton Community College and a bachelor’s in nursing at Tabor College of Wichita.Next came a master’s in nursing, family nurse practitioner at Walden University. Belt earned her PMHNP credentials at Maryville University.Belt’s most recent position was director of nursing at Diversicare of Larned. Other employers have included Quality Staffing, Rescare Inc., Larned State Hospital, PawneeValley Community Hospital, Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility, Sunrise Inc., St. Joseph Memorial Hospital and HaysMed.Achievements include a deficiency-free survey at Diversicare and helping with the development of the Licensed Mental Health Technician Program at Larned State Hospital.“This background guides me in my new position at Heart of Kansas where everyone is friendly and welcoming,” Belt said, noting services there continue to expand.Belt and her husband, Ryan, have five children, ranging in age from 13 to 23. Her parents live in Larned, where her father recently retired as chief of police; her mother was a registered nurse. Belt has five siblings, three of whom serve in healthcare.Brett Middleton, Heart of Kansas chief executive officer, said “we are fortunate to have Julie on our staff. She brings a wealth of education to our team and we know our patients will benefit from her expertise and compassion.”Heart of Kansas Family Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center, which allows it to be a safety net for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Its professional providers also welcome those with insurance at the Great Bend, Larned and Stafford locations. Heart of Kansas is open to everyone.

Julie Belt offers mental-health services at Heart of Kansas

The Fourth of July will be over but there's still room for some fireworks at the Great Bend Sports Complex on Wednesday, July 5. The Great Bend Recreation Commission will again host its Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit &amp; Run Contest begins that evening at 5:30. A chance to compete at Kansas City's Kauffman Stadium in September is on the line. Rec Director Chris Umphres explains.

"You don't have to show up right at 5:30," he said. "We'll be open all the way up until 7. You basically show up, do your events, and you get to leave. It doesn't take that long to do. Whether you're just there to have fun or you're really trying to compete to get to the next level, it's something to try. It's a nice little skills competition."

The hitting competition is scored on how far and straight players can hit a ball off a tee. The pitch competition includes six throws and is scored on hitting the target or not. Running is a timed event from second base to home plate. The competition is open for ages 7-14, and will be broken into boys' and girls' categories in four age groups.

"Their score is tabulated at the state level," Umphres said. "If they reach a certain amount, they are qualified to go to Royals' Stadium in Kansas City. It's a pretty neat event."

The Great Bend Rec is assisted by the Optimist Club of Great Bend. Pre-registration for the event is suggested. <a href="https://pitchhitrun2023.leagueapps.com/events/3854844-great-bend-recreation-commission">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687204696185.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Fourth of July will be over but there's still room for some fireworks at the Great Bend Sports Complex on Wednesday, July 5. The Great Bend Recreation Commission will again host its Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit &amp; Run Contest begins that evening at 5:30. A chance to compete at Kansas City's Kauffman Stadium in September is on the line. Rec Director Chris Umphres explains."You don't have to show up right at 5:30," he said. "We'll be open all the way up until 7. You basically show up, do your events, and you get to leave. It doesn't take that long to do. Whether you're just there to have fun or you're really trying to compete to get to the next level, it's something to try. It's a nice little skills competition."The hitting competition is scored on how far and straight players can hit a ball off a tee. The pitch competition includes six throws and is scored on hitting the target or not. Running is a timed event from second base to home plate. The competition is open for ages 7-14, and will be broken into boys' and girls' categories in four age groups."Their score is tabulated at the state level," Umphres said. "If they reach a certain amount, they are qualified to go to Royals' Stadium in Kansas City. It's a pretty neat event."The Great Bend Rec is assisted by the Optimist Club of Great Bend. Pre-registration for the event is suggested. <a href="https://pitchhitrun2023.leagueapps.com/events/3854844-great-bend-recreation-commission">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

Pitch, Hit & Run contest returns to Great Bend July 5

Join us in celebrating and honoring our local veterans and active-duty members with this Freedom Salute. Their unwavering dedication and selfless service inspire us all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these heroes in our community.

Sponsored by: &nbsp;Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture, Fireworks for Less, Great Bend KanEquip, Isern &amp; Carpenter Attorneys at Law, JD's Well Service, Miller Plastics, Nex-Tech Wireless, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Spectrum CPAs, Squeak's Club and Mid-Kansas Ag.

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/M5TPBhPi-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Freedom Salutes 1" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Join us in celebrating and honoring our local veterans and active-duty members with this Freedom Salute. Their unwavering dedication and selfless service inspire us all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these heroes in our community.Sponsored by: &nbsp;Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture, Fireworks for Less, Great Bend KanEquip, Isern &amp; Carpenter Attorneys at Law, JD's Well Service, Miller Plastics, Nex-Tech Wireless, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Spectrum CPAs, Squeak's Club and Mid-Kansas Ag.

(SPONSORED) Freedom Salute - Marcia Dietz

On this episode of the Post Podcast, 1590 AM / 95.5 FM KVGB Eagle Radio's Steve Webster speaks with Barton Community College Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes about the upcoming exhibit "Sayaka" that comes to the gallery July 7. (Show aired on June 26, 2023).

The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<div><iframe title="Cougar Pause: Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i4tmu-14417eb-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, 1590 AM / 95.5 FM KVGB Eagle Radio's Steve Webster speaks with Barton Community College Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes about the upcoming exhibit "Sayaka" that comes to the gallery July 7. (Show aired on June 26, 2023).The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Cougar Pause with Shafer Gallery Director

This is day 5 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.

The Kansas wheat harvest is 21 percent complete, well behind 54 percent last year and 38 percent for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 25, 2023. Maturity was rated at 58 percent, also behind 84 percent last year and the 77 percent five-year average.&nbsp;

Winter wheat conditions were rated at 53 percent very poor to poor, 31 percent fair and 16 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;

After several delays, Kansas farmers are finally seeing harvest weather. With this week’s hot temperatures, harvest is ramping up.

In Rice County in south-central Kansas, Brian Sieker has been cutting a sparse wheat crop a few miles west of Chase.&nbsp;

“I am pretty fortunate we even have wheat to cut this year,” Sieker said.&nbsp;

In the fall, the wheat was off to what looked like a great start, but as the year progressed, snows and rain events seemed a thing of the past, and the wheat used up any residual moisture. Now, with harvest in full swing around the area, some neighbors did not even bother to bring out their combines, opting to abandon their wheat and move on to a different crop.&nbsp;

For Sieker, yields have ranged as high as mid-thirties down into the teens. Moisture was normal at 11 percent and the test weights in some of his nearby fields were doing fairly well at 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;

“You go further west, they have it worse,” Sieker said. “We are just thankful to have some fields worth cutting.”&nbsp;

On top of the usual hustle and bustle of wheat harvest, it has been extra busy with Sieker switching between a combine cab with a swather cab depending on the current state of dew points and humidity as he also produces alfalfa hay, corn, soybeans and sorghum.&nbsp;

Eastern Kansas farmers who escaped the extreme drought conditions are seeing different yield results. In Montgomery County, sixth-generation farmer Jesse Muller started cutting his hard red winter wheat on June 13 but also had delays due to rain. Farming the land that has been in his family for multiple generations makes farming significantly more meaningful for Muller. This year’s crop, unlike other parts of the state, has Muller needing to calibrate his combine more often.&nbsp;

Muller is seeing a wide variety of yields across his fields, ranging anywhere from 20 bushels per acre in some spots up above 70 to 80 bushels per acre in others. Test weights are averaging above 60 pounds per bushel in his fields, which were planted to a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety with excellent head scab tolerance.&nbsp;

“Yields are better than expected on most fields, especially following corn due to the excess nitrogen from last year,” Muller said, explaining that his family was lucky to be in the pocket that received rains when they needed them.&nbsp;

“We’re seeing a wide array of variability, with some bright spots and some expected frustrations of lower-than-average yields, and some disastrous yields,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “Overall, reported yields range from ten to 70 bushels per acre, with the averages in the 30s from what I’ve seen. I’ve also heard a lot of reports of proteins above 12%.”

Keep track of the Kansas Wheat crew as they continue their harvest tour. Look for a special edition harvest report on the soft red winter wheat crop on June 27.

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=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CV8KAbPP415-j-9xfEYB7-gx8w2KHIELWz2baMQ9J2-WyZtfjdKB4QJu4rXfRr4aR7Rst_9c7TLBIUQCXZICQD7i9dQVTcse7z_3U5WvhnFz&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CVisq5f4wsRWuhmvxNNEXrhztg2z08V7rUlzy8m93KM7lbnPm17iKS8LC6DvqGSkY1Mdw6nkueojZjrPJm9ofAoJ3vF7MEoX_dDbDagEj1f1&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CfCB4W7w9VDr7E4SBeDPFeKewYjvjpnorUuYjNFPwc4jOva1X-SzvgEAlol910Xi_zEV3zI8Ct5fqJ_RpqODUZGpzoakeJIEEKzdBSVyO53E&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687874769941.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 5 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.The Kansas wheat harvest is 21 percent complete, well behind 54 percent last year and 38 percent for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 25, 2023. Maturity was rated at 58 percent, also behind 84 percent last year and the 77 percent five-year average.&nbsp;Winter wheat conditions were rated at 53 percent very poor to poor, 31 percent fair and 16 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;After several delays, Kansas farmers are finally seeing harvest weather. With this week’s hot temperatures, harvest is ramping up.In Rice County in south-central Kansas, Brian Sieker has been cutting a sparse wheat crop a few miles west of Chase.&nbsp;“I am pretty fortunate we even have wheat to cut this year,” Sieker said.&nbsp;In the fall, the wheat was off to what looked like a great start, but as the year progressed, snows and rain events seemed a thing of the past, and the wheat used up any residual moisture. Now, with harvest in full swing around the area, some neighbors did not even bother to bring out their combines, opting to abandon their wheat and move on to a different crop.&nbsp;For Sieker, yields have ranged as high as mid-thirties down into the teens. Moisture was normal at 11 percent and the test weights in some of his nearby fields were doing fairly well at 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;“You go further west, they have it worse,” Sieker said. “We are just thankful to have some fields worth cutting.”&nbsp;On top of the usual hustle and bustle of wheat harvest, it has been extra busy with Sieker switching between a combine cab with a swather cab depending on the current state of dew points and humidity as he also produces alfalfa hay, corn, soybeans and sorghum.&nbsp;Eastern Kansas farmers who escaped the extreme drought conditions are seeing different yield results. In Montgomery County, sixth-generation farmer Jesse Muller started cutting his hard red winter wheat on June 13 but also had delays due to rain. Farming the land that has been in his family for multiple generations makes farming significantly more meaningful for Muller. This year’s crop, unlike other parts of the state, has Muller needing to calibrate his combine more often.&nbsp;Muller is seeing a wide variety of yields across his fields, ranging anywhere from 20 bushels per acre in some spots up above 70 to 80 bushels per acre in others. Test weights are averaging above 60 pounds per bushel in his fields, which were planted to a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety with excellent head scab tolerance.&nbsp;“Yields are better than expected on most fields, especially following corn due to the excess nitrogen from last year,” Muller said, explaining that his family was lucky to be in the pocket that received rains when they needed them.&nbsp;“We’re seeing a wide array of variability, with some bright spots and some expected frustrations of lower-than-average yields, and some disastrous yields,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “Overall, reported yields range from ten to 70 bushels per acre, with the averages in the 30s from what I’ve seen. I’ve also heard a lot of reports of proteins above 12%.”Keep track of the Kansas Wheat crew as they continue their harvest tour. Look for a special edition harvest report on the soft red winter wheat crop on June 27.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=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CV8KAbPP415-j-9xfEYB7-gx8w2KHIELWz2baMQ9J2-WyZtfjdKB4QJu4rXfRr4aR7Rst_9c7TLBIUQCXZICQD7i9dQVTcse7z_3U5WvhnFz&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CVisq5f4wsRWuhmvxNNEXrhztg2z08V7rUlzy8m93KM7lbnPm17iKS8LC6DvqGSkY1Mdw6nkueojZjrPJm9ofAoJ3vF7MEoX_dDbDagEj1f1&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CfCB4W7w9VDr7E4SBeDPFeKewYjvjpnorUuYjNFPwc4jOva1X-SzvgEAlol910Xi_zEV3zI8Ct5fqJ_RpqODUZGpzoakeJIEEKzdBSVyO53E&amp;c=Hgd9_wGsQ90bpeRsnbAQWHpYpW_5FXzYVyaQN3Me8ByRWJu88WYDXQ==&amp;ch=2RcmuTj0PtIRg2h7rzyyG4mvdBoLL3NQwzZsMeowM70DMHwS_1Q7WQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Day 5, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

Great Bend Economic Development has launched a new program to inspire
upgrades to older homes throughout Barton County. BC ReNew will provide a
rebate grant up to 10% of material purchases for eligible homeowners within
city limits of Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington and Claflin. 

Economic
Development Communications Director Lee Ann June said the maximum award per
recipient is $10,000. "This is a program where we are really wanting people to shop local," said June. "They need to spend 90% of the material costs in Barton County to get the funds returned. The rebate program is for the materials and can up to $10,000." 
A Housing Rehab Committee will review all program applications. For the year of
2023, $35,000 has been allocated to the program. Eligible upgrades un the BC
ReNew Housing Rehab Program include structural improvements, energy conservation
measures and modernization projects.

Find out more by clicking <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/61c38e7c-df29-44e9-8424-9f5859920acd">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687793392799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostGreat Bend Economic Development has launched a new program to inspire
upgrades to older homes throughout Barton County. BC ReNew will provide a
rebate grant up to 10% of material purchases for eligible homeowners within
city limits of Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington and Claflin. Economic
Development Communications Director Lee Ann June said the maximum award per
recipient is $10,000. "This is a program where we are really wanting people to shop local," said June. "They need to spend 90% of the material costs in Barton County to get the funds returned. The rebate program is for the materials and can up to $10,000." 
A Housing Rehab Committee will review all program applications. For the year of
2023, $35,000 has been allocated to the program. Eligible upgrades un the BC
ReNew Housing Rehab Program include structural improvements, energy conservation
measures and modernization projects. Find out more by clicking <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/61c38e7c-df29-44e9-8424-9f5859920acd">HERE</a>.

Shopping local emphasized on Barton County housing rehab program

Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corp. will develop, own and operate a 20-megawatt solar energy project near Russell. 

In January 2022, Sunflower announced its plans to add a second solar facility to its generation portfolio and has since selected a developer and project structure for the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell project.

Sunflower is a cooperatively operated wholesale generation and transmission utility serving seven member distribution utilities with a fuel-diverse electric generating mix that includes traditional and renewable resources.

Sunflower is the sole off-taker on the 20-megawatt J<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/5ea04a45eb7f1705360329c7">ohnson Corner Solar Project</a> (JCSP), which it co-developed with the National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) prior to the project coming online in April 2020. The JCSP is currently the largest operating commercial solar facility in Kansas. It will be matched in size in January 2025 with the expected commercial operation of the Russell solar facility.

Sunflower is partnering with DEPCOM Power to design and construct the Russell project, which will produce approximately 53,000 megawatt hours annually, a total that constitutes 1% of the Sunflower system’s total energy needs. The facility, which will be located on 140 acres three miles east of Russell, will have approximately 45,000 solar panels on a single-axis solar tracking system.

Solar energy is desirable because it is available during peak energy use, which aids in ensuring affordability and reliability. The project near Russell will also reduce or eliminate the cost of expensive transmission upgrades due to its interconnection location on the bulk electric grid.

“Each energy generation resource type has benefits, so Sunflower supports an all-of-the-above approach to our generation portfolio,” said Corey Linville, Sunflower vice president, power supply and delivery. “Solar resources produce energy during the hottest days of the year when our system experiences its highest demand. The declining cost of utility-scale solar energy, combined with available tax credits and the opportunity to mitigate transmission costs, will further benefit Sunflower’s members and those they serve.”

Sunflower is again working with NRCO on this project. Sunflower is a founder and member-owner of NRCO, an organization which was formed by electric cooperatives from across the country to develop and deploy renewable energy resources.

“As a member-owned cooperative, we make every decision with the best interest of our members in mind,” said Tom Ruth, general manager of Western Cooperative Electric, which serves in parts of Russell County. “We analyze and consider new technologies to determine if&nbsp;and when they add value to our system and, ultimately, to those we serve. This is definitely the right time and place for the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell project.”

DEPCOM is currently in the design and material procurement phase of the project. Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2023 and last approximately one year.

“DEPCOM Power is proud to partner with Sunflower Electric Power Corporation on the design and construction of this project,” said Robert Wanless, DEPCOM vice president of business development. “This project will be constructed using tier-one solar PV technology, including bi-facial solar panels; single-axis tracker racking; and centralized inverter/transformers platforms. Kansas is an important market for DEPCOM, with our parent company being headquartered in Wichita. Over the next two years, this project will create hundreds of local jobs.”

About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices. Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower. For more information, visit <a href="https://sunflower.net/">sunflower.net</a>.

Electric Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney, Kansas. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas. Together, with our members' help, Western Co-op is committed to building a stronger rural America. For more information about Western, visit <a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/">www.westerncoop.com</a>.

About National Renewables Cooperative Organization

Formed in 2008 by 21 cooperatives, NRCO aims to increase access to cost-effective renewable energy resources for electric cooperatives around the country. NRCO provides full origination and development services for its owner-members and cooperative customers, with nearly one gigawatt of wind and solar projects completed to date including 59 cooperative-run community solar farms. For more information, visit <a href="https://nrco.coop/">nrco.coop</a>.

DEPCOM Power, a Koch Engineered Solutions company, is a leading energy solutions partner for the utility solar and broader energy industries providing project development support, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), energy storage, repowering and operations and maintenance services. DEPCOM Power leverages a highly experienced team of conventional and renewable EPC power industry veterans. Uniquely bankable energy services are designed to deliver the lowest cost of energy and highest rate of return. For more information visit, <a href="https://www.depcompower.com/">depcompower.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687555691086.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower ElectricHays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corp. will develop, own and operate a 20-megawatt solar energy project near Russell. In January 2022, Sunflower announced its plans to add a second solar facility to its generation portfolio and has since selected a developer and project structure for the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell project.Sunflower is a cooperatively operated wholesale generation and transmission utility serving seven member distribution utilities with a fuel-diverse electric generating mix that includes traditional and renewable resources.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687555779367.jpeg" alt="Sunflower&nbsp; Electric Johnson Corner solar project. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower&nbsp; Electric Johnson Corner solar project. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower is the sole off-taker on the 20-megawatt J<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/5ea04a45eb7f1705360329c7">ohnson Corner Solar Project</a> (JCSP), which it co-developed with the National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) prior to the project coming online in April 2020. The JCSP is currently the largest operating commercial solar facility in Kansas. It will be matched in size in January 2025 with the expected commercial operation of the Russell solar facility.Sunflower is partnering with DEPCOM Power to design and construct the Russell project, which will produce approximately 53,000 megawatt hours annually, a total that constitutes 1% of the Sunflower system’s total energy needs. The facility, which will be located on 140 acres three miles east of Russell, will have approximately 45,000 solar panels on a single-axis solar tracking system.Solar energy is desirable because it is available during peak energy use, which aids in ensuring affordability and reliability. The project near Russell will also reduce or eliminate the cost of expensive transmission upgrades due to its interconnection location on the bulk electric grid.“Each energy generation resource type has benefits, so Sunflower supports an all-of-the-above approach to our generation portfolio,” said Corey Linville, Sunflower vice president, power supply and delivery. “Solar resources produce energy during the hottest days of the year when our system experiences its highest demand. The declining cost of utility-scale solar energy, combined with available tax credits and the opportunity to mitigate transmission costs, will further benefit Sunflower’s members and those they serve.”Sunflower is again working with NRCO on this project. Sunflower is a founder and member-owner of NRCO, an organization which was formed by electric cooperatives from across the country to develop and deploy renewable energy resources.“As a member-owned cooperative, we make every decision with the best interest of our members in mind,” said Tom Ruth, general manager of Western Cooperative Electric, which serves in parts of Russell County. “We analyze and consider new technologies to determine if&nbsp;and when they add value to our system and, ultimately, to those we serve. This is definitely the right time and place for the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell project.”DEPCOM is currently in the design and material procurement phase of the project. Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2023 and last approximately one year.“DEPCOM Power is proud to partner with Sunflower Electric Power Corporation on the design and construction of this project,” said Robert Wanless, DEPCOM vice president of business development. “This project will be constructed using tier-one solar PV technology, including bi-facial solar panels; single-axis tracker racking; and centralized inverter/transformers platforms. Kansas is an important market for DEPCOM, with our parent company being headquartered in Wichita. Over the next two years, this project will create hundreds of local jobs.”About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices. Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower. For more information, visit <a href="https://sunflower.net/">sunflower.net</a>.About Western Cooperative Electric Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney, Kansas. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas. Together, with our members' help, Western Co-op is committed to building a stronger rural America. For more information about Western, visit <a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/">www.westerncoop.com</a>.About National Renewables Cooperative OrganizationFormed in 2008 by 21 cooperatives, NRCO aims to increase access to cost-effective renewable energy resources for electric cooperatives around the country. NRCO provides full origination and development services for its owner-members and cooperative customers, with nearly one gigawatt of wind and solar projects completed to date including 59 cooperative-run community solar farms. For more information, visit <a href="https://nrco.coop/">nrco.coop</a>.About DEPCOM Power DEPCOM Power, a Koch Engineered Solutions company, is a leading energy solutions partner for the utility solar and broader energy industries providing project development support, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), energy storage, repowering and operations and maintenance services. DEPCOM Power leverages a highly experienced team of conventional and renewable EPC power industry veterans. Uniquely bankable energy services are designed to deliver the lowest cost of energy and highest rate of return. For more information visit, <a href="https://www.depcompower.com/">depcompower.com</a>.

Russell area to be site of Sunflower Electric solar project

Last week marked the unofficial great geese roundup for plenty of Kansas
Department of Wildlife and Parks staff members. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife
Manager Jason Wagner said crews started near Pratt and worked their way north
to the Great Bend area to band Canadian geese. 
Wagner said the process to capture the geese to place the bands on their legs is
easier than you think. After geese hatch their goslings, they go through a
roughly two-week period where they cannot fly. The geese molt their flight
feathers to have a brand-new set for migration. For wildlife staff, this period
of time is perfect to capture and band the flightless birds. "We'll get out to the lakes or ponds and kayak around," said Wagner. "We have a portable corral system for geese that we set up on the banks. Guys go out on the kayaks and work the birds back and forth. The geese go up on land and go through our funnel corral system. We handle them and put the bands on them." 
Wagner said wildlife officials glean valuable data from the geese bands
throughout the years. Staff receives a look at the male and female ratios and
the birds’ survivability rate from hunters. "Hunters will shoot a goose that has a band," said Wagner. "They turn it in and we can get the information back, the day it was banded, how old we think they are and if they're male or female. We get some survivability info too. It helps us with our season setting and our bag limit." 
Wagner said the goal is to band 1,000 geese in Kansas each year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687467619264.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast week marked the unofficial great geese roundup for plenty of Kansas
Department of Wildlife and Parks staff members. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife
Manager Jason Wagner said crews started near Pratt and worked their way north
to the Great Bend area to band Canadian geese. 
Wagner said the process to capture the geese to place the bands on their legs is
easier than you think. After geese hatch their goslings, they go through a
roughly two-week period where they cannot fly. The geese molt their flight
feathers to have a brand-new set for migration. For wildlife staff, this period
of time is perfect to capture and band the flightless birds. "We'll get out to the lakes or ponds and kayak around," said Wagner. "We have a portable corral system for geese that we set up on the banks. Guys go out on the kayaks and work the birds back and forth. The geese go up on land and go through our funnel corral system. We handle them and put the bands on them." 
Wagner said wildlife officials glean valuable data from the geese bands
throughout the years. Staff receives a look at the male and female ratios and
the birds’ survivability rate from hunters. "Hunters will shoot a goose that has a band," said Wagner. "They turn it in and we can get the information back, the day it was banded, how old we think they are and if they're male or female. We get some survivability info too. It helps us with our season setting and our bag limit." 
Wagner said the goal is to band 1,000 geese in Kansas each year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687802536962.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687802556393.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687802571161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687802584432.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Process of banding geese in the Great Bend area

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/26) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:23 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 1800 block of Odell Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 8:50 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 384 N. Washington. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 2:51 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue. 
 
Assault 
 
At 7:45 p.m. an assault was reported at NE K-156 Highway at MM 135. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:02 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1220 Truman. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10 p.m. an accident was reported at 3 NW 90 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (6/26) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:23 a.m. officers assisted BTSO with a traffic arrest in the 1800 block of
Odell. 
 
Falls 
 
At 6:41 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1212 Grant. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:10 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9:27 a.m. a theft was reported at 1310 Hubbard Street. She was advised to
contact her local agency. 
 
Overdose / Poisoning 
 
At 10:42 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1205 Holland. Subject took too
much medicine. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 3:40 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3806 Broadway. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 6:35 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1208 Jefferson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/26) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:23 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 1800 block of Odell Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 8:50 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 384 N. Washington. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 2:51 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue. 
 
Assault 
 
At 7:45 p.m. an assault was reported at NE K-156 Highway at MM 135. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:02 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1220 Truman. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10 p.m. an accident was reported at 3 NW 90 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (6/26) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:23 a.m. officers assisted BTSO with a traffic arrest in the 1800 block of
Odell. 
 
Falls 
 
At 6:41 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1212 Grant. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:10 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9:27 a.m. a theft was reported at 1310 Hubbard Street. She was advised to
contact her local agency. 
 
Overdose / Poisoning 
 
At 10:42 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1205 Holland. Subject took too
much medicine. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 3:40 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3806 Broadway. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 6:35 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1208 Jefferson.

Cop Shop (6/26)

6/27 BOOKED: Trystan Welch on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Dallas Mills on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transport of Alcohol, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Annette Britton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Eliseo Velasco on Saline County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

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

BOOKED: Joseph Aiello on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $15,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Dallas Mills on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transport of Alcohol, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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

RELEASED: Jeremy Northcutt on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Annette Britton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Patrick Moody-Standlee on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, transferred to Pawnee County.

RELEASED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

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 </figure>6/27 BOOKED: Trystan Welch on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Dallas Mills on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transport of Alcohol, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Annette Britton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Eliseo Velasco on Saline County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Zachary Horyna on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Joseph Aiello on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $15,000 C/S.RELEASED: Dallas Mills on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transport of Alcohol, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Trystan Welch on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jeremy Northcutt on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Annette Britton on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Patrick Moody-Standlee on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, transferred to Pawnee County.RELEASED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/27)

It's not your average pancake. Hoisington's Jennifer Kennon drove three-plus hours to St. Francis to pick up a food cart. The goal: to start a small, one-woman food business she could maintain herself. That idea turned into something else. Jennifer's husband, Keith, helped her build her own food cart, and JK's Jennanigans was born. The mobile mini pancake stand is now open for business.

"People think of breakfast when they think of pancakes," Jennifer explained. "This is topped with Oreo cookies. We have one called 'Monkey Business' with crushed vanilla wafers, vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and then the mini pancakes, then topped with whip cream and whatever syrups they like, caramel or chocolate."

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687353406829.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt's not your average pancake. Hoisington's Jennifer Kennon drove three-plus hours to St. Francis to pick up a food cart. The goal: to start a small, one-woman food business she could maintain herself. That idea turned into something else. Jennifer's husband, Keith, helped her build her own food cart, and JK's Jennanigans was born. The mobile mini pancake stand is now open for business."People think of breakfast when they think of pancakes," Jennifer explained. "This is topped with Oreo cookies. We have one called 'Monkey Business' with crushed vanilla wafers, vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and then the mini pancakes, then topped with whip cream and whatever syrups they like, caramel or chocolate."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687353190455.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Kennon hopes to utilize the stand at local events, including fairs, chamber events, birthday parties, and other small gatherings. The pink and blue pancakes are ideal for gender reveals. The mini pancakes start at a small order of seven for $5, and go up to 15 pancakes for $10. Various sweet and fruity toppings are available, and even those can be topped with whip cream and various syrups. A scoop of ice cream can be added for an additional dollar."I'm excited to see where it will go," Kennon said. "We'll pop up here and there at different places, birthday parties, gender reveals. I'm excited to see where this goes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687353346002.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Different batter choices and toppings leave Kennon and customers with plenty of options as the business grows. Kennon does still have the food cart she purchased in St. Francis. She hopes to turn it into a mobile breakfast cart in the near future.