The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, May 9 indicates exceptional drought in
our area with really no change from last week.&nbsp;
The storm/rains from Tuesday on aren’t reflected in this report.&nbsp; Some parts of Western Kansas will likely show
improved conditions but being in exceptional drought aren’t out of the woods or
anywhere near it.&nbsp; As of Thursday, when
this was written our area has received rains along with hail and wind but
rainfall totals are all over. &nbsp;The six to
ten-day outlook (May 16 to 20) indicates a normal to slightly below normal temperature
outlook and a normal to a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (May 18 to 24)
indicates a similar temperature outlook and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to
above normal precipitation.&nbsp; Normal
precipitation would be approximately an inch for the period.&nbsp; Normal temperatures will allow newly emerged
crops a chance to establish a root system with available moisture.

For the past while, insurance
adjusters have been out evaluating the area’s winter wheat crop.&nbsp; Many fields had estimated yields of five
bushels per acre or less.&nbsp; Some fields
will have enough yield to harvest but fair at best.&nbsp; Even irrigated wheat suffered.&nbsp; So, what are the options with these
“abandoned” acres.&nbsp; Part of this depends
on how a producer evaluates the precipitation for the 2023 growing.&nbsp; Another part is examining herbicide protocols
and any possible herbicide carryover concerns.&nbsp;
There are options so let’s briefly examine these.&nbsp; First, under most circumstances with as thin
as the wheat stands are, try to do everything to avoid tillage.&nbsp; To destroy what little wheat is there and any
potential weed concerns, herbicides are a better option.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some
will try to bale what wheat is there for hay.&nbsp;
It won’t be much for most fields and the quality will be fair at best
but feed is in very short supply.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If
moisture conditions improve, grain sorghum is probably the best option.&nbsp; Probably an early-medium to medium maturity
sorghum is the best bet as they need less water.&nbsp; It’s growing late for corn and dryland corn
is riskier than milo.&nbsp; Plus, unless
planting a very short season corn, the crop will be flowering and trying to
fill grain during the worst part of summer.&nbsp;
If the crop even has enough water to stand a chance to produce a viable
ear.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soybeans
are also an option if you have enough soil moisture to get them out of the
ground.&nbsp; Their peak moisture usage is
later than corn and a bit later than milo but still pretty risky.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Probably
the best option, especially if the producer is set up for it or needs feed, is
producing feed.&nbsp; With the hay/decent
pasture shortage there is a strong market even if the producer doesn’t have
cattle.&nbsp; The advantage is you aren’t
concerned about grain or beans.&nbsp; You
should be aware of possible elevated nitrate levels and have it tested.&nbsp; Sudan grass, sorghum X sudan crosses and even
hybrid pearl millet (it’s more drought tolerant and while production is lower
than other options, it also has a much better leaf to stem ration).&nbsp; 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We
should also add sunflowers here, however, input costs, especially insecticides
are there and transporting/marketing can be a challenge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596995818491.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, May 9 indicates exceptional drought in
our area with really no change from last week.&nbsp;
The storm/rains from Tuesday on aren’t reflected in this report.&nbsp; Some parts of Western Kansas will likely show
improved conditions but being in exceptional drought aren’t out of the woods or
anywhere near it.&nbsp; As of Thursday, when
this was written our area has received rains along with hail and wind but
rainfall totals are all over. &nbsp;The six to
ten-day outlook (May 16 to 20) indicates a normal to slightly below normal temperature
outlook and a normal to a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (May 18 to 24)
indicates a similar temperature outlook and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to
above normal precipitation.&nbsp; Normal
precipitation would be approximately an inch for the period.&nbsp; Normal temperatures will allow newly emerged
crops a chance to establish a root system with available moisture.For the past while, insurance
adjusters have been out evaluating the area’s winter wheat crop.&nbsp; Many fields had estimated yields of five
bushels per acre or less.&nbsp; Some fields
will have enough yield to harvest but fair at best.&nbsp; Even irrigated wheat suffered.&nbsp; So, what are the options with these
“abandoned” acres.&nbsp; Part of this depends
on how a producer evaluates the precipitation for the 2023 growing.&nbsp; Another part is examining herbicide protocols
and any possible herbicide carryover concerns.&nbsp;
There are options so let’s briefly examine these.&nbsp; First, under most circumstances with as thin
as the wheat stands are, try to do everything to avoid tillage.&nbsp; To destroy what little wheat is there and any
potential weed concerns, herbicides are a better option.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some
will try to bale what wheat is there for hay.&nbsp;
It won’t be much for most fields and the quality will be fair at best
but feed is in very short supply.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If
moisture conditions improve, grain sorghum is probably the best option.&nbsp; Probably an early-medium to medium maturity
sorghum is the best bet as they need less water.&nbsp; It’s growing late for corn and dryland corn
is riskier than milo.&nbsp; Plus, unless
planting a very short season corn, the crop will be flowering and trying to
fill grain during the worst part of summer.&nbsp;
If the crop even has enough water to stand a chance to produce a viable
ear.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soybeans
are also an option if you have enough soil moisture to get them out of the
ground.&nbsp; Their peak moisture usage is
later than corn and a bit later than milo but still pretty risky.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Probably
the best option, especially if the producer is set up for it or needs feed, is
producing feed.&nbsp; With the hay/decent
pasture shortage there is a strong market even if the producer doesn’t have
cattle.&nbsp; The advantage is you aren’t
concerned about grain or beans.&nbsp; You
should be aware of possible elevated nitrate levels and have it tested.&nbsp; Sudan grass, sorghum X sudan crosses and even
hybrid pearl millet (it’s more drought tolerant and while production is lower
than other options, it also has a much better leaf to stem ration).&nbsp; ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We
should also add sunflowers here, however, input costs, especially insecticides
are there and transporting/marketing can be a challenge.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Planting Decisions for Abandoned Wheat 

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

On&nbsp;May 17, Great Bend Economic Development is hosting a fun, interactive networking event for Barton County Young Professionals from&nbsp;5 pm to 7 pm&nbsp;at&nbsp;Dry Lake Brewing (1305 Main Street, GBK).&nbsp;Barton County Young Professionals connect those who work, live, and play in Barton County with our business and non-profit community through networking, volunteer, and leadership opportunities.&nbsp;

At this event,&nbsp;BCYP&nbsp;members and guests will learn more about the&nbsp;IGNITE Rural Business competition&nbsp;through an entertaining, interactive presentation by Great Bend Economic Development. Dry Lake is providing the space that&nbsp;BCYP-ers will have a chance to meet and connect with other like-minded professionals in their field and from across Barton County.&nbsp;Enjoy refreshments including mini-snacks from Joe’s redneck Grill food truck, a drink ticket to the first 100, and door prizes throughout the event including two VIP Experience Prizes. The first VIP prize is a reserved table (for four) at Fridays on Forest, 8 drink tickets, and a few surprises. The other VIP prize is 5 tickets for the IGNITE Rural Business finale (Oct. 5th) in our special&nbsp;BCYP&nbsp;Balcony section. The IGNITE prize includes drinks and waitstaff to assist you during the preshow reception.

Bring your friends because you don’t want to miss this one. By bringing a friend, you’ll be eligible for an extra ticket in the drawings. So hit them up, and send those emails, texts, DMs, Snaps, and messages to encourage your&nbsp;friends to attend! If they show up and give your&nbsp;name, you&nbsp;will be given bonus entries for our prize drawings. Thank you to our partners and sponsors, The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton County Young Professionals, and Dry Lake Brewing.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683817882236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...On&nbsp;May 17, Great Bend Economic Development is hosting a fun, interactive networking event for Barton County Young Professionals from&nbsp;5 pm to 7 pm&nbsp;at&nbsp;Dry Lake Brewing (1305 Main Street, GBK).&nbsp;Barton County Young Professionals connect those who work, live, and play in Barton County with our business and non-profit community through networking, volunteer, and leadership opportunities.&nbsp;At this event,&nbsp;BCYP&nbsp;members and guests will learn more about the&nbsp;IGNITE Rural Business competition&nbsp;through an entertaining, interactive presentation by Great Bend Economic Development. Dry Lake is providing the space that&nbsp;BCYP-ers will have a chance to meet and connect with other like-minded professionals in their field and from across Barton County.&nbsp;Enjoy refreshments including mini-snacks from Joe’s redneck Grill food truck, a drink ticket to the first 100, and door prizes throughout the event including two VIP Experience Prizes. The first VIP prize is a reserved table (for four) at Fridays on Forest, 8 drink tickets, and a few surprises. The other VIP prize is 5 tickets for the IGNITE Rural Business finale (Oct. 5th) in our special&nbsp;BCYP&nbsp;Balcony section. The IGNITE prize includes drinks and waitstaff to assist you during the preshow reception.Bring your friends because you don’t want to miss this one. By bringing a friend, you’ll be eligible for an extra ticket in the drawings. So hit them up, and send those emails, texts, DMs, Snaps, and messages to encourage your&nbsp;friends to attend! If they show up and give your&nbsp;name, you&nbsp;will be given bonus entries for our prize drawings. Thank you to our partners and sponsors, The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton County Young Professionals, and Dry Lake Brewing.&nbsp;

BCYP networking mixer hosted by Great Bend Economic

Holly Bowyer and her colleagues at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation are in high gear, planning for the 10th annual Mental Health Awareness Day.

The event is set for 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 23 at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend.

“Mental health affects so many aspects of our lives but some people are unaware of the numerous resources in our community,” said Bowyer, who is heading up the planning committee. “Virtually everyone here at The Center is pitching in so that we can share information with participants.”

The Center will offer several booths that focus on Community Based Services, #Zero Reasons Why (#ZRW), Community Support Services, and the clinical and medical departments.

In addition, approximately 20 other local and area agencies have reserved space for their booths at no cost to them.

“We appreciate the support of all of these agencies,” Bowyer commented. “Because of their commitment to mental-health issues, we have more booths this year than ever before.”

A new feature at the #ZRW booth this year is the opportunity for young people to tell their stories about why mental health has been so important in their lives. #ZRW is a teen-led suicide-prevention program.

This annual event got its start when “the people in our adult programs wanted to show the community what they experienced at The Center,” Bowyer recalled. “We set up exhibits in our parking lot at 5815 Broadway, which was fine for a while. But it got too

big for that venue. And, I am pleased to say, it continues to grow in popularity every year.”

Since Mental Health Awareness Day is for the whole family, the event caters to all ages. This includes large tricycles, a bounce house, yard games and arts and crafts.

In addition, hot dogs, chips and popcorn are available at no cost, while supplies last.

“Yes, we want to share information about local mental-health resources but we also want everyone to have a good time,” Bowyer said. “This is a great opportunity for all of us to come together to support one another and enjoy a few hours outside.”

Julie Kramp, The Center executive director, said the “community should commend the agency’s staff for organizing and participating in Mental Health Awareness Day. They realize how important mental-health resources are to our entire community. The staff deserve all the credit and I appreciate their commitment.”

Sponsors of the event are UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, Sunflower Health Plan and Aetna Better Health of Kansas.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683830991648.jpeg" alt="Holly Bowyer is leading the planning committee for the upcoming Mental Health Awareness Day in downtown Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Holly Bowyer is leading the planning committee for the upcoming Mental Health Awareness Day in downtown Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>Holly Bowyer and her colleagues at The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation are in high gear, planning for the 10th annual Mental Health Awareness Day.The event is set for 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 23 at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend.“Mental health affects so many aspects of our lives but some people are unaware of the numerous resources in our community,” said Bowyer, who is heading up the planning committee. “Virtually everyone here at The Center is pitching in so that we can share information with participants.”The Center will offer several booths that focus on Community Based Services, #Zero Reasons Why (#ZRW), Community Support Services, and the clinical and medical departments.In addition, approximately 20 other local and area agencies have reserved space for their booths at no cost to them.“We appreciate the support of all of these agencies,” Bowyer commented. “Because of their commitment to mental-health issues, we have more booths this year than ever before.”A new feature at the #ZRW booth this year is the opportunity for young people to tell their stories about why mental health has been so important in their lives. #ZRW is a teen-led suicide-prevention program.This annual event got its start when “the people in our adult programs wanted to show the community what they experienced at The Center,” Bowyer recalled. “We set up exhibits in our parking lot at 5815 Broadway, which was fine for a while. But it got toobig for that venue. And, I am pleased to say, it continues to grow in popularity every year.”Since Mental Health Awareness Day is for the whole family, the event caters to all ages. This includes large tricycles, a bounce house, yard games and arts and crafts.In addition, hot dogs, chips and popcorn are available at no cost, while supplies last.“Yes, we want to share information about local mental-health resources but we also want everyone to have a good time,” Bowyer said. “This is a great opportunity for all of us to come together to support one another and enjoy a few hours outside.”Julie Kramp, The Center executive director, said the “community should commend the agency’s staff for organizing and participating in Mental Health Awareness Day. They realize how important mental-health resources are to our entire community. The staff deserve all the credit and I appreciate their commitment.”Sponsors of the event are UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, Sunflower Health Plan and Aetna Better Health of Kansas.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

The Center plans 10th annual Mental Health Awareness Day

Ellinwood's After Harvest Festival music lineup

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

While the City of Hoisington is working toward demolishing the vacant
Windgate apartment complex, the removal does not include burning the structures
down. Residents may see smoke coming from the apartments on Tuesday, May 16,
but the smoke will be visible for a training exercise only. 

Hoisington City
Manager Jonathan Mitchell said several area fire departments will conduct a
smoke training at the apartment complex Tuesday evening. "If you see smoke pouring out of one of those apartment buildings next Tuesday, please know it is a training exercise," said Mitchell. "Don't call 911. It's a training exercise to help our folks learn more on how to handle smoke and react to that." 
The city acquired the Windgate apartments in January 2022 for $200,000 with the
intent to raze the structures to create housing lots. Asbestos mitigation began
in March and the city council will next receive bids for the demolition.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678397985338.jpeg" alt="Area fire departments will conduct a smoke training at the vacant Windgate apartments in Hoisington on Tuesday, May 16." />
 <figcaption>Area fire departments will conduct a smoke training at the vacant Windgate apartments in Hoisington on Tuesday, May 16.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile the City of Hoisington is working toward demolishing the vacant
Windgate apartment complex, the removal does not include burning the structures
down. Residents may see smoke coming from the apartments on Tuesday, May 16,
but the smoke will be visible for a training exercise only. Hoisington City
Manager Jonathan Mitchell said several area fire departments will conduct a
smoke training at the apartment complex Tuesday evening. "If you see smoke pouring out of one of those apartment buildings next Tuesday, please know it is a training exercise," said Mitchell. "Don't call 911. It's a training exercise to help our folks learn more on how to handle smoke and react to that." 
The city acquired the Windgate apartments in January 2022 for $200,000 with the
intent to raze the structures to create housing lots. Asbestos mitigation began
in March and the city council will next receive bids for the demolition.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

No emergency, smoke at vacant Hoisington apartments for training

May is the month in Kansas when the state typically sees its most severe weather, including tornadoes. Kansas Gas Service wants to remind all customers to keep safety in mind before and after a storm.

“Taking steps to protect your natural gas meter is often an afterthought, but it’s important to keep in mind for the safety of yourself and your community, especially during severe weather season,” said Sean Postlethwait, vice president of operations for Kansas Gas Service. “Preparedness is key, and we encourage our customers to join us in taking a few simple steps to plan for any storm.”

Here are some helpful steps to take in preparation for severe weather:

• Check around your natural gas meter and remove any objects that could be blown into the meter by strong winds or pushed into the meter by heavy rain and flooding. • Remove any branches or other objects above the meter that could fall onto and damage the meter.

Safety should always be a priority, even after severe weather. Here are some important things to remember once the storm passes.

• If you smell natural gas, usually described as a “rotten egg” odor, leave the area immediately, then call 911 and Kansas Gas Service at 888-482-4950. Be sure not to operate any electrical appliances, including light switches. • If you don’t smell natural gas, still do a maintenance check around your home by checking all gas appliances for damage and chimneys and flues for any fallen objects. • If you need to remove any fallen tree limbs or uncovered debris, contact 811 to locate underground natural gas pipelines and other utility lines if this requires digging. • If your natural gas meter was turned off or your service was interrupted during the storm, call the Kansas Gas Service customer service line at 800-794-4780 to restore your service. DO NOT attempt to turn your natural gas meter back on.

Customers can visit KansasGasService.com/safety for year-round safety tips.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683836504669.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Kansas Gas Service...May is the month in Kansas when the state typically sees its most severe weather, including tornadoes. Kansas Gas Service wants to remind all customers to keep safety in mind before and after a storm.“Taking steps to protect your natural gas meter is often an afterthought, but it’s important to keep in mind for the safety of yourself and your community, especially during severe weather season,” said Sean Postlethwait, vice president of operations for Kansas Gas Service. “Preparedness is key, and we encourage our customers to join us in taking a few simple steps to plan for any storm.”Here are some helpful steps to take in preparation for severe weather:• Check around your natural gas meter and remove any objects that could be blown into the meter by strong winds or pushed into the meter by heavy rain and flooding. • Remove any branches or other objects above the meter that could fall onto and damage the meter.Safety should always be a priority, even after severe weather. Here are some important things to remember once the storm passes.• If you smell natural gas, usually described as a “rotten egg” odor, leave the area immediately, then call 911 and Kansas Gas Service at 888-482-4950. Be sure not to operate any electrical appliances, including light switches. • If you don’t smell natural gas, still do a maintenance check around your home by checking all gas appliances for damage and chimneys and flues for any fallen objects. • If you need to remove any fallen tree limbs or uncovered debris, contact 811 to locate underground natural gas pipelines and other utility lines if this requires digging. • If your natural gas meter was turned off or your service was interrupted during the storm, call the Kansas Gas Service customer service line at 800-794-4780 to restore your service. DO NOT attempt to turn your natural gas meter back on.Customers can visit KansasGasService.com/safety for year-round safety tips.

Prepare for severe weather with simple tips

From the Barton County Conservation District...

This is one of the busiest months of the year!&nbsp; We all have holidays, graduations, planting, and end of school things happening, as well as the start of summer sports, and upcoming vacations and more. &nbsp;

So, down to business!&nbsp; Just a few things to make note of this month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620306273203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Barton County Conservation District...This is one of the busiest months of the year!&nbsp; We all have holidays, graduations, planting, and end of school things happening, as well as the start of summer sports, and upcoming vacations and more. &nbsp;So, down to business!&nbsp; Just a few things to make note of this month.<ul>
 <li>We are taking applications now for the Water Resources and Non Point Source state cost share programs.&nbsp; We will take applications for the first group of funding for FY 2024 up until May 31.&nbsp; This ranking pool is usually our biggest, and when the most contract awards are made. &nbsp;</li><li>We are hiring a Conservation Technician.&nbsp; This is a great first step to a satisfying career for those who want to transition to the NRCS.&nbsp; Requirements are a high school diploma or equivalent GED, a farm or conservation background, and good communication skills.&nbsp; It’s a full time position with a nice benefit package and a real future!&nbsp; In addition, this is a day time, weekday position and designated federal holidays paid and off, so great work-life balance.&nbsp; We are accepting applications until May 24, here at the Conservation District office.&nbsp; Call if you have questions! &nbsp;</li><li>The Victory Garden of Barton County has raised bed gardens available now- ready to plant.&nbsp; Contact the Conservation District or stop in at the Barton County Historical Society Museum and sign up now to be part of our community garden!&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683831426309.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683831444811.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton County Conservation District newsletter

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Department's Katelyn Sigler and Deb Higgins that aired May 11, 2023.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Department's Katelyn Sigler and Deb Higgins that aired May 11, 2023.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/kdwxhywm/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙County Edition: Barton Co. Health Department

Jack Bowman had agreed to whip up a meal for a small group of colleagues and thought he could use an extra pair of hands in the kitchen.

As program advocate at Juvenile Services (JS), Bowman approached a student at the JS Day School about the idea. The teenager agreed to help.

“This was kind of the catalyst” for a new program at JS, Bowman said. It is called Adulting Academy and focuses on a variety of life skills, financial know-how and employment advice.

“Since cooking is one of the life skills, I asked the student if he wanted to help prepare the meal,” Bowman recalled. “We shopped for the ingredients and, even though his kitchen skills were limited, he was enthusiastic.

“Actually, I told him ‘if you continue cutting those green onions while holding the knife like that, they will turn into red onions,” he laughed. “But we made it through and the event was a success.”

The word “adulting” is used in the name of the academy because young people use it to describe behaving like an adult while performing mundane, but necessary, tasks.

Volunteers needed If the program is to succeed, volunteers are needed to teach, and/or donate supplies and locations for certain classes. For example, a mechanic’s shop would come in handy for instructions on how to change the oil or check the fluids in a car.

“It’s one thing to watch a video on YouTube but another to actually perform the task,” Bowman explained. “For many of us, it is much easier to learn by doing.”

One of the first volunteers was Justin Brown, English instructor at Barton Community College. He will present four classes in May and June on Survival English: Writing for the Workplace.

“Justin contacted me, saying he was interested in giving back to his community,” Bowman said. “This meant a lot to all of us.”

Class schedules depend on the number of students, the topic, and equally important, the volunteer’s availability.

“We will work with volunteers about scheduling,” Bowman said. “If they are kind enough to share their time and expertise, that is the least we can do.”

Priority is given to JS clients. But, when possible, others can join in – whether it’s a classroom or community setting. Classes are designed for ages 16 through 19.

“A lot of us probably remember looking back to early adulthood and the questions that arise,” Bowman commented. “I could call my parents for help and advice but some kids don’t have that connection.”

For now, Adulting Academy is offered only in Barton County. However, if this pilot program is successful, Bowman hopes to expand it into other counties in the 20th Judicial District. These are Russell, Stafford, Rice and Ellsworth.

Marissa Woodmansee, JS director, noted the objective of the state grant that supports this program “is to connect young people to post-high-school opportunities. We want to partner with community stakeholders on a wide variety of topics to guide teenagers into the next stage of their lives.

“We have a community with vast resources,” she continued. “However, if you are not aware of these resources, a little guidance will be helpful. We appreciate Jack’s initiative and are grateful to anyone who volunteers to make this happen.”

Class topics focus on skills in many categories. These include domestic, automotive, financial, relationship, job, citizenship, time management, problem solving, self-care and miscellaneous.

For more information or to volunteer, call 620-793-1930.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683830866178.jpeg" alt="Jack Bowman is program advocate for the new Juvenile Services Adulting Academy." />
 <figcaption>Jack Bowman is program advocate for the new Juvenile Services Adulting Academy.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jack Bowman had agreed to whip up a meal for a small group of colleagues and thought he could use an extra pair of hands in the kitchen.As program advocate at Juvenile Services (JS), Bowman approached a student at the JS Day School about the idea. The teenager agreed to help.“This was kind of the catalyst” for a new program at JS, Bowman said. It is called Adulting Academy and focuses on a variety of life skills, financial know-how and employment advice.“Since cooking is one of the life skills, I asked the student if he wanted to help prepare the meal,” Bowman recalled. “We shopped for the ingredients and, even though his kitchen skills were limited, he was enthusiastic.“Actually, I told him ‘if you continue cutting those green onions while holding the knife like that, they will turn into red onions,” he laughed. “But we made it through and the event was a success.”The word “adulting” is used in the name of the academy because young people use it to describe behaving like an adult while performing mundane, but necessary, tasks.Volunteers needed If the program is to succeed, volunteers are needed to teach, and/or donate supplies and locations for certain classes. For example, a mechanic’s shop would come in handy for instructions on how to change the oil or check the fluids in a car.“It’s one thing to watch a video on YouTube but another to actually perform the task,” Bowman explained. “For many of us, it is much easier to learn by doing.”One of the first volunteers was Justin Brown, English instructor at Barton Community College. He will present four classes in May and June on Survival English: Writing for the Workplace.“Justin contacted me, saying he was interested in giving back to his community,” Bowman said. “This meant a lot to all of us.”Class schedules depend on the number of students, the topic, and equally important, the volunteer’s availability.“We will work with volunteers about scheduling,” Bowman said. “If they are kind enough to share their time and expertise, that is the least we can do.”Priority is given to JS clients. But, when possible, others can join in – whether it’s a classroom or community setting. Classes are designed for ages 16 through 19.“A lot of us probably remember looking back to early adulthood and the questions that arise,” Bowman commented. “I could call my parents for help and advice but some kids don’t have that connection.”For now, Adulting Academy is offered only in Barton County. However, if this pilot program is successful, Bowman hopes to expand it into other counties in the 20th Judicial District. These are Russell, Stafford, Rice and Ellsworth.Marissa Woodmansee, JS director, noted the objective of the state grant that supports this program “is to connect young people to post-high-school opportunities. We want to partner with community stakeholders on a wide variety of topics to guide teenagers into the next stage of their lives.“We have a community with vast resources,” she continued. “However, if you are not aware of these resources, a little guidance will be helpful. We appreciate Jack’s initiative and are grateful to anyone who volunteers to make this happen.”Class topics focus on skills in many categories. These include domestic, automotive, financial, relationship, job, citizenship, time management, problem solving, self-care and miscellaneous.For more information or to volunteer, call 620-793-1930.

Volunteers needed for new Juvenile Services Adulting Academy

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Seventeen years ago, the Barton County Planning Commission had to write a zoning policy regarding wind energy in the county. The subject has now turned to solar energy. Wednesday morning, the Barton County Board of Commissioners approved a moratorium on any solar development in the county through Dec. 31. Thursday morning, the planning commission began working to update the county's solar energy policies. Commissioner Mary Ann Stoskopf is hopeful solar policy can reflect that of wind policy.

"We have never had the wind energy conversion system regulations challenged in 17 years," she said. "That's what we want is something that's understandable and applicable, and that the people are affected are willing, at least for the most part, to compromise on it."

The commission has already looked to several other counties in Kansas with updated solar energy conversion policies. The commission determined a probable path of putting solar conversion systems into three categories: small-scale non-commercial, large-scale non-commercial, and commercial. The difference, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham said, is a private entity like Kansas Brick and Tile putting up several solar panels to power a business, and a homeowner using panels to cut electric bills.

"You think about Barton Hills, which is extremely close to Cheyenne Bottoms," she said. "There are going to be a lot of people in the future that are going to want their own solar, and why shouldn't they be able to? It's to help with their energy costs. If you want to put it in your yard, or you want to put it on your house, go for it."

It will be up to the planning commission to set policy regarding all three categories. Part of that will be determining what size is safe for the area, both in terms of both geographic coverage and generating capabilities. Goreham plans to reach out to several solar energy and electrical experts for the next meeting scheduled for 9 a.m., June 8, at the Barton County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683835352525.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSeventeen years ago, the Barton County Planning Commission had to write a zoning policy regarding wind energy in the county. The subject has now turned to solar energy. Wednesday morning, the Barton County Board of Commissioners approved a moratorium on any solar development in the county through Dec. 31. Thursday morning, the planning commission began working to update the county's solar energy policies. Commissioner Mary Ann Stoskopf is hopeful solar policy can reflect that of wind policy."We have never had the wind energy conversion system regulations challenged in 17 years," she said. "That's what we want is something that's understandable and applicable, and that the people are affected are willing, at least for the most part, to compromise on it."The commission has already looked to several other counties in Kansas with updated solar energy conversion policies. The commission determined a probable path of putting solar conversion systems into three categories: small-scale non-commercial, large-scale non-commercial, and commercial. The difference, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham said, is a private entity like Kansas Brick and Tile putting up several solar panels to power a business, and a homeowner using panels to cut electric bills."You think about Barton Hills, which is extremely close to Cheyenne Bottoms," she said. "There are going to be a lot of people in the future that are going to want their own solar, and why shouldn't they be able to? It's to help with their energy costs. If you want to put it in your yard, or you want to put it on your house, go for it."It will be up to the planning commission to set policy regarding all three categories. Part of that will be determining what size is safe for the area, both in terms of both geographic coverage and generating capabilities. Goreham plans to reach out to several solar energy and electrical experts for the next meeting scheduled for 9 a.m., June 8, at the Barton County Courthouse.

Barton Planning Commission begins work on solar energy policy

Watch the video below and hear from investor Rick Ball as he determines what to do with the closed golf course in Great Bend.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d9c1aaf1-ea78-4e35-9b84-1216e0f5582a">RELATED STORY: 'New' ownership deciding what's next for closed Great Bend golf course</a>

Watch the video below and hear from investor Rick Ball as he determines what to do with the closed golf course in Great Bend.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/QRBPS3Xa-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Gb Post Stone Ridge With Audio" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d9c1aaf1-ea78-4e35-9b84-1216e0f5582a">RELATED STORY: 'New' ownership deciding what's next for closed Great Bend golf course</a>

(SPONSORED) 🎥 What's next for the Great Bend golf course?

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

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c5811af9-eee3-41a0-a1b2-9bb21117f4b4">Six local Vietnam vets honored at opening of The Wall That Heals</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7d0f88dc-7b41-4cde-8a32-68e664e9c0ca">Barton County implements moratorium on commercial solar farms</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ee644688-1939-4b19-85e9-fbb182d26291">New USD 428 preschool to accommodate 450 students</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683594949692.png" alt="A rendering of the USD 428 property located at 1809 24th Street shows 15 preschool classrooms." />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the USD 428 property located at 1809 24th Street shows 15 preschool classrooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/shsklgnh/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c5811af9-eee3-41a0-a1b2-9bb21117f4b4">Six local Vietnam vets honored at opening of The Wall That Heals</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7d0f88dc-7b41-4cde-8a32-68e664e9c0ca">Barton County implements moratorium on commercial solar farms</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/ee644688-1939-4b19-85e9-fbb182d26291">New USD 428 preschool to accommodate 450 students</a>

Eagle Radio's News Week in Review

At the Great Bend City Council meeting on May 1, councilmember Cory Urban requested that gym memberships for employees be brought back for discussion. Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling will report to the board on the upcoming meeting on May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

For the past couple of years, the City of Great Bend has paid for a single membership to Club 1 Fitness for all their employees. All new hires have to sign an acknowledgment that the city pays for a single membership because the benefit is a taxable fringe benefit through the IRS, meaning all employees must pay the tax on the membership. All existing employees see the approximately $128 gym-membership tax come out of their checks in July.

As of now, the gym membership program with Club 1 is scheduled to expire at the end of June.&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d6fb4b32-dc78-4e0a-9436-fd8af6e4a7b2">RELATED STORY: Gym manager looking to renew City of Great Bend memberships</a>

The city sent a request for information on pricing from area fitness centers such as Anytime Fitness, Club 1, The Fieldhouse, Great Bend Recreation Commission, Image Total Fitness, Inspire Fitness and Willpower F.A.T.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683837827101.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>At the Great Bend City Council meeting on May 1, councilmember Cory Urban requested that gym memberships for employees be brought back for discussion. Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling will report to the board on the upcoming meeting on May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.For the past couple of years, the City of Great Bend has paid for a single membership to Club 1 Fitness for all their employees. All new hires have to sign an acknowledgment that the city pays for a single membership because the benefit is a taxable fringe benefit through the IRS, meaning all employees must pay the tax on the membership. All existing employees see the approximately $128 gym-membership tax come out of their checks in July.As of now, the gym membership program with Club 1 is scheduled to expire at the end of June.&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d6fb4b32-dc78-4e0a-9436-fd8af6e4a7b2">RELATED STORY: Gym manager looking to renew City of Great Bend memberships</a>The city sent a request for information on pricing from area fitness centers such as Anytime Fitness, Club 1, The Fieldhouse, Great Bend Recreation Commission, Image Total Fitness, Inspire Fitness and Willpower F.A.T.

Great Bend to discuss gym memberships for employees again

Content Warning: This column contains discussion of gun violence and gun related homicide and suicide.

Medicaid expansion has been a hot topic over the past decade. Despite many states across the country expanding their Medicaid programs under the Affordable Care Act, Kansas has yet to do so.

According to the 2022 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey distributed by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, nearly 76% of Kansans support KanCare expansion — KanCare is the name of the state’s Medicaid program.

Despite extremely high levels of public support, the state legislature has failed to expand KanCare. The reason is most often attributed to partisan politics.

However, opponents of KanCare expansion may want to take a second look at some specific benefits of extending the program — 90% of which would be paid for by the federal government.

The RAND Corporation, a non-partisan policy think tank, has published new data about state-level firearm related deaths.

According to their findings, Kansas’ firearm death rates are 24% higher than the national average. This high percentage is driven mostly by the state’s firearm death by suicide rate, which is 46% higher than the national average.

Firearm homicides are 7% lower in Kansas than the national average.

Contrary to popular belief, gun violence is not unique to urban areas.

New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) last month finds that gun violence is not even predominantly an urban issue — an argument that is generally used as justification for loosening gun laws. Rather, all areas of Kansas are impacted by gun violence. Especially self-harm via firearms.

In Kansas’ rural areas, firearm deaths are 14% higher than the national average, firearm deaths by suicide are 25% higher, and rural firearm homicides are 9% lower.

What does this have to do with KanCare expansion?

Research from the Kaiser Foundation finds that Medicaid expansion increases access to care for adults with mental health conditions, such as depression.

Medicaid expansion is associated with an increase in the number of mental health facilities accepting Medicaid patients and an increase in the number of visits individual patients make to mental health providers.

Medicaid expansion is especially beneficial in providing much needed mental healthcare to rural residents, as nearly half of all mental health professional shortage areas nationally are located in rural areas.

Furthermore, a report from the Kansas Health Institute and the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas found that an estimated 24,154 Kansans are likely to use extended mental and behavioral health services under KanCare expansion.

Another research study published in JAMA, this one in June 2022, finds that an average of 1818 deaths by suicide were averted in Medicaid expansion states after the expansions — mostly among 20-29 year olds.

Expanding KanCare could — and based on the research likely would — prevent firearms deaths, especially those by suicide, in our state.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Content Warning: This column contains discussion of gun violence and gun related homicide and suicide.Medicaid expansion has been a hot topic over the past decade. Despite many states across the country expanding their Medicaid programs under the Affordable Care Act, Kansas has yet to do so.According to the 2022 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey distributed by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, nearly 76% of Kansans support KanCare expansion — KanCare is the name of the state’s Medicaid program.Despite extremely high levels of public support, the state legislature has failed to expand KanCare. The reason is most often attributed to partisan politics.However, opponents of KanCare expansion may want to take a second look at some specific benefits of extending the program — 90% of which would be paid for by the federal government.The RAND Corporation, a non-partisan policy think tank, has published new data about state-level firearm related deaths.According to their findings, Kansas’ firearm death rates are 24% higher than the national average. This high percentage is driven mostly by the state’s firearm death by suicide rate, which is 46% higher than the national average.Firearm homicides are 7% lower in Kansas than the national average.Contrary to popular belief, gun violence is not unique to urban areas.New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) last month finds that gun violence is not even predominantly an urban issue — an argument that is generally used as justification for loosening gun laws. Rather, all areas of Kansas are impacted by gun violence. Especially self-harm via firearms.In Kansas’ rural areas, firearm deaths are 14% higher than the national average, firearm deaths by suicide are 25% higher, and rural firearm homicides are 9% lower.What does this have to do with KanCare expansion?<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Research from the Kaiser Foundation finds that Medicaid expansion increases access to care for adults with mental health conditions, such as depression.Medicaid expansion is associated with an increase in the number of mental health facilities accepting Medicaid patients and an increase in the number of visits individual patients make to mental health providers.Medicaid expansion is especially beneficial in providing much needed mental healthcare to rural residents, as nearly half of all mental health professional shortage areas nationally are located in rural areas.Furthermore, a report from the Kansas Health Institute and the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas found that an estimated 24,154 Kansans are likely to use extended mental and behavioral health services under KanCare expansion.Another research study published in JAMA, this one in June 2022, finds that an average of 1818 deaths by suicide were averted in Medicaid expansion states after the expansions — mostly among 20-29 year olds.Expanding KanCare could — and based on the research likely would — prevent firearms deaths, especially those by suicide, in our state.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Firearms related deaths are high in Kansas, KanCare expansion could help

Against a backdrop of American flags suspended from multihued combines, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) sat down with U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn 'GT' Thompson (PA-15) on May 2 to gather input on Farm Bill priorities during a food and agriculture listening session.&nbsp;

The session marks the first official Farm Bill listening session since a Senate field hearing in 2017 and follows a late April roundtable discussion with Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Senator John Boozman, the ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. The current version of the Farm Bill expires on September 30, 2023, so these sessions are part of many others happening across the country as lawmakers negotiate the future of the Farm Bill.&nbsp;

“We are all here because we care about agriculture, with getting ag policy right,” Rep. Mann said. “And we want to see Kansas and American farmers, ranchers and producers thrive. That's why we planned this session to listen, share and make this Farm Bill the strongest one in American history. For that to happen, we must come together with our diverse perspectives and find points of unity.”&nbsp;

Conducting this listening session within the Big First congressional district was a barometer of the needs of U.S. agriculture. Inside the Saline County machine shed of Justin Knopf - immediate past president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers - farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, and leaders in Kansas agriculture gathered to emphasize the importance of Farm Bill programs from crop insurance to food aid and everything in between.&nbsp;

“I’m just incredibly grateful that they took the time to come out and spend time listening in our community, in front of a wheat field, in front of harvesters,” Knopf said. “What was important for me was for them to experience the sense of community here, the good people that I partner with on a daily basis in our operation - my neighbors, bankers, crop insurance agents, USDA staff and other business people in the community. I wanted them to have a sense of how this legislation impacts all those individuals and our ability to get our job done and done well.”&nbsp;

Extreme Drought Illustrates Importance of Crop Insurance

With a wheat field just behind the flatbed trailer serving as the stage, Knopf used his welcome to walk the lawmakers and attendees through the current growth stage of his wheat crop and his expectations for a below-average yield. He recognized his wheat is in better shape than many and pointed out that thousands of Kansas wheat acres have been abandoned or will not be harvested this year due to extreme drought conditions. The persistent drought also emphasizes the importance for crop insurance, which was repeated by several commentators throughout the morning session.&nbsp;

“Farmers deal with a lot of risk; it’s an inherent part of our business and what our families deal with,” Knopf said. “Crop insurance is probably the most important and most fundamental way that we have to manage some of that risk in extreme weather events, be it drought like we’re experiencing currently or floods like they recently experienced in California.”

“We heard a lot of that message today from the farmers who spoke up and made comments on crop insurance. In the wake of a disaster, crop insurance is what allows us to have the means to put in next year’s crop.”&nbsp;

Session Highlights Kansas Ties to Food Aid

Attendees also expressed support for other Farm Bill programs, including food aid assistance programs like USAID Food for Peace, which can trace their origins to the ideas of a young Kansas farmer. In September 1953, Peter O’Brien, a farmer and rancher from Cheyenne County, suggested at his county Farm Bureau meeting that Kansas farmers could give some surplus grain to countries in dire need -- saving lives and building goodwill all at once. A resolution was drafted at the county level and was adopted by the Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation.&nbsp;

In 1954, U.S. Senator Andy Schoeppel, also from Kansas, sponsored the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act, a bill based on the grassroots resolution. The act was then signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The law became the basis for today’s modern food aid programs. The United States now sends more food aid to countries in need than any other nation and more wheat is used in the United States as in-kind aid than any other commodity.&nbsp;

Wheat is not only donated for direct use but is also a popular commodity for monetization, a development program where donated commodities are sold within the recipient country, and the proceeds support agricultural development projects. In his comments, Ken Wood, board member for the National Wheat Foundation and retired farmer from nearby Chapman, emphasized the need to keep wheat as a commodity donation, rather than switching the programs to relying on monetary assistance.&nbsp;

Rep. Mann and Chairman Thompson each echoed their support for food aid programs in the Farm Bill during their remarks.&nbsp;

“This is having a positive impact on families around the world,” Chairman Thompson said. “As I like to say, people with full bellies are less likely to engage in war and terrorism. And so that makes all of you and that makes the American farmer a champion for world peace.”&nbsp;

Lawmakers Commit to Strengthening Export Market Development Programs

Both lawmakers also expressed their commitment to increased funding for the Farm Bill-authorized export market development programs - the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development (FMD) program. Both programs need more investment to strengthen their effectiveness as MAP’s authorized funding has not changed since 2006 and FMD funding has remained the same since 2002.&nbsp;

“When you look at the return on investment for taxpayer dollars on those programs, that covers the swath of all agricultural products,” Rep. Mann said. “We have got to keep investing there. I strongly support increasing our investments for MAP and FMD.”

Rep. Mann is helping lead the effort to double the funding for this pair of agricultural export market development programs administered by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). He is a lead sponsor for the Agriculture Export Promotion Act (H.R. 648), which is currently making its way through the U.S. political process, along with the Senate equivalent - the Expanding Agricultural Exports Act (S. 176).&nbsp;

“Congressman Mann has led strongly and sponsored legislation to double MAP and FMD funding,” Knopf said. “I applaud his efforts on that front and Chairman Thompson following suit in supporting that push because the return on investment is very high.”

Rural Input Helps Shape Farm Bill Priorities

The stated and submitted comments on export market development, food aid, crop insurance and many other topics will travel from the machine shed in Saline County to the marble halls of Washington, DC. There, they’ll be combined with the comments from other listening sessions across the country to help shape the next Farm Bill. While timing and details are still being determined, one fact is certain - lawmakers are listening to what U.S. producers need to continue doing what they do best - providing food, fuel and fiber for the world.&nbsp;

“Agriculture inspires us to look back at our shared heritage, engage in the present and plan for the future,” Rep. Mann said. “That's what today is about – planning for the future. Producers do everything they can to pass the tradition of agriculture on to their children. And we have conversations like this one today to make sure that we're able to do that.”

﻿Following the listening session, Rep. Mann, Chairman Thompson, and the Farm Journal Foundation held a panel discussion titled, "The Role of Innovation in Global Food Systems" at Kansas State University. Additional panelists included Dr. J. Ernest Minton, Dean of K-State College of Agriculture; Gregg Doud, Vice President of Global Situational Awareness &amp; Chief Economist of Aimpoint Research; and Tyler Lund, Farm Journal Foundation Farmer Ambassador.

Watch the full panel discussion at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001x9aX9q-kEutHpVVTNrqEum0kWBSXKWUkaxSypWaFu1S86OWlHEnv5i-SNc59oqGEaymi_MhTQedpy3uib-C88ePUkWD1zs_pcKxmvb5MJCn3OzTgJOUyTyoJLbNT8plwAFL-06fySPZ1evyZp6K4dfM2TH_h8FC942TmgFf0U7A=&amp;c=Hf41r8_orjgSZ_CIZhQVjGF2JbIWhX_KSso8NfYt7s61Wg6oCra7RQ==&amp;ch=HrKIhNVZzDwpWrZUGjusPSWBACwXT3dKSyf1xq1RljHSSjQs7HySsQ==" target="_blank">https://www.k-state.edu/media/farmbill/</a>&nbsp;and keep track of Farm Bill progress and other legislation impacting Kansas wheat farmers at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001x9aX9q-kEutHpVVTNrqEum0kWBSXKWUkaxSypWaFu1S86OWlHEnv5i-SNc59oqGEryS2uSAwg9hOOQdpkn472pfiv9a5V53MYuFZGcfyDzoBlTdkqYL9cslaajNf-PIQ3i0eH5ocLjzqw1ARrRUs1Q==&amp;c=Hf41r8_orjgSZ_CIZhQVjGF2JbIWhX_KSso8NfYt7s61Wg6oCra7RQ==&amp;ch=HrKIhNVZzDwpWrZUGjusPSWBACwXT3dKSyf1xq1RljHSSjQs7HySsQ==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/advocacy</a>.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628192871161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Against a backdrop of American flags suspended from multihued combines, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) sat down with U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn 'GT' Thompson (PA-15) on May 2 to gather input on Farm Bill priorities during a food and agriculture listening session.&nbsp;The session marks the first official Farm Bill listening session since a Senate field hearing in 2017 and follows a late April roundtable discussion with Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Senator John Boozman, the ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. The current version of the Farm Bill expires on September 30, 2023, so these sessions are part of many others happening across the country as lawmakers negotiate the future of the Farm Bill.&nbsp;“We are all here because we care about agriculture, with getting ag policy right,” Rep. Mann said. “And we want to see Kansas and American farmers, ranchers and producers thrive. That's why we planned this session to listen, share and make this Farm Bill the strongest one in American history. For that to happen, we must come together with our diverse perspectives and find points of unity.”&nbsp;Conducting this listening session within the Big First congressional district was a barometer of the needs of U.S. agriculture. Inside the Saline County machine shed of Justin Knopf - immediate past president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers - farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, and leaders in Kansas agriculture gathered to emphasize the importance of Farm Bill programs from crop insurance to food aid and everything in between.&nbsp;“I’m just incredibly grateful that they took the time to come out and spend time listening in our community, in front of a wheat field, in front of harvesters,” Knopf said. “What was important for me was for them to experience the sense of community here, the good people that I partner with on a daily basis in our operation - my neighbors, bankers, crop insurance agents, USDA staff and other business people in the community. I wanted them to have a sense of how this legislation impacts all those individuals and our ability to get our job done and done well.”&nbsp;Extreme Drought Illustrates Importance of Crop InsuranceWith a wheat field just behind the flatbed trailer serving as the stage, Knopf used his welcome to walk the lawmakers and attendees through the current growth stage of his wheat crop and his expectations for a below-average yield. He recognized his wheat is in better shape than many and pointed out that thousands of Kansas wheat acres have been abandoned or will not be harvested this year due to extreme drought conditions. The persistent drought also emphasizes the importance for crop insurance, which was repeated by several commentators throughout the morning session.&nbsp;“Farmers deal with a lot of risk; it’s an inherent part of our business and what our families deal with,” Knopf said. “Crop insurance is probably the most important and most fundamental way that we have to manage some of that risk in extreme weather events, be it drought like we’re experiencing currently or floods like they recently experienced in California.”“We heard a lot of that message today from the farmers who spoke up and made comments on crop insurance. In the wake of a disaster, crop insurance is what allows us to have the means to put in next year’s crop.”&nbsp;Session Highlights Kansas Ties to Food AidAttendees also expressed support for other Farm Bill programs, including food aid assistance programs like USAID Food for Peace, which can trace their origins to the ideas of a young Kansas farmer. In September 1953, Peter O’Brien, a farmer and rancher from Cheyenne County, suggested at his county Farm Bureau meeting that Kansas farmers could give some surplus grain to countries in dire need -- saving lives and building goodwill all at once. A resolution was drafted at the county level and was adopted by the Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation.&nbsp;In 1954, U.S. Senator Andy Schoeppel, also from Kansas, sponsored the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act, a bill based on the grassroots resolution. The act was then signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The law became the basis for today’s modern food aid programs. The United States now sends more food aid to countries in need than any other nation and more wheat is used in the United States as in-kind aid than any other commodity.&nbsp;Wheat is not only donated for direct use but is also a popular commodity for monetization, a development program where donated commodities are sold within the recipient country, and the proceeds support agricultural development projects. In his comments, Ken Wood, board member for the National Wheat Foundation and retired farmer from nearby Chapman, emphasized the need to keep wheat as a commodity donation, rather than switching the programs to relying on monetary assistance.&nbsp;Rep. Mann and Chairman Thompson each echoed their support for food aid programs in the Farm Bill during their remarks.&nbsp;“This is having a positive impact on families around the world,” Chairman Thompson said. “As I like to say, people with full bellies are less likely to engage in war and terrorism. And so that makes all of you and that makes the American farmer a champion for world peace.”&nbsp;Lawmakers Commit to Strengthening Export Market Development ProgramsBoth lawmakers also expressed their commitment to increased funding for the Farm Bill-authorized export market development programs - the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development (FMD) program. Both programs need more investment to strengthen their effectiveness as MAP’s authorized funding has not changed since 2006 and FMD funding has remained the same since 2002.&nbsp;“When you look at the return on investment for taxpayer dollars on those programs, that covers the swath of all agricultural products,” Rep. Mann said. “We have got to keep investing there. I strongly support increasing our investments for MAP and FMD.”Rep. Mann is helping lead the effort to double the funding for this pair of agricultural export market development programs administered by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). He is a lead sponsor for the Agriculture Export Promotion Act (H.R. 648), which is currently making its way through the U.S. political process, along with the Senate equivalent - the Expanding Agricultural Exports Act (S. 176).&nbsp;“Congressman Mann has led strongly and sponsored legislation to double MAP and FMD funding,” Knopf said. “I applaud his efforts on that front and Chairman Thompson following suit in supporting that push because the return on investment is very high.”Rural Input Helps Shape Farm Bill PrioritiesThe stated and submitted comments on export market development, food aid, crop insurance and many other topics will travel from the machine shed in Saline County to the marble halls of Washington, DC. There, they’ll be combined with the comments from other listening sessions across the country to help shape the next Farm Bill. While timing and details are still being determined, one fact is certain - lawmakers are listening to what U.S. producers need to continue doing what they do best - providing food, fuel and fiber for the world.&nbsp;“Agriculture inspires us to look back at our shared heritage, engage in the present and plan for the future,” Rep. Mann said. “That's what today is about – planning for the future. Producers do everything they can to pass the tradition of agriculture on to their children. And we have conversations like this one today to make sure that we're able to do that.”﻿Following the listening session, Rep. Mann, Chairman Thompson, and the Farm Journal Foundation held a panel discussion titled, "The Role of Innovation in Global Food Systems" at Kansas State University. Additional panelists included Dr. J. Ernest Minton, Dean of K-State College of Agriculture; Gregg Doud, Vice President of Global Situational Awareness &amp; Chief Economist of Aimpoint Research; and Tyler Lund, Farm Journal Foundation Farmer Ambassador.Watch the full panel discussion at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001x9aX9q-kEutHpVVTNrqEum0kWBSXKWUkaxSypWaFu1S86OWlHEnv5i-SNc59oqGEaymi_MhTQedpy3uib-C88ePUkWD1zs_pcKxmvb5MJCn3OzTgJOUyTyoJLbNT8plwAFL-06fySPZ1evyZp6K4dfM2TH_h8FC942TmgFf0U7A=&amp;c=Hf41r8_orjgSZ_CIZhQVjGF2JbIWhX_KSso8NfYt7s61Wg6oCra7RQ==&amp;ch=HrKIhNVZzDwpWrZUGjusPSWBACwXT3dKSyf1xq1RljHSSjQs7HySsQ==" target="_blank">https://www.k-state.edu/media/farmbill/</a>&nbsp;and keep track of Farm Bill progress and other legislation impacting Kansas wheat farmers at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001x9aX9q-kEutHpVVTNrqEum0kWBSXKWUkaxSypWaFu1S86OWlHEnv5i-SNc59oqGEryS2uSAwg9hOOQdpkn472pfiv9a5V53MYuFZGcfyDzoBlTdkqYL9cslaajNf-PIQ3i0eH5ocLjzqw1ARrRUs1Q==&amp;c=Hf41r8_orjgSZ_CIZhQVjGF2JbIWhX_KSso8NfYt7s61Wg6oCra7RQ==&amp;ch=HrKIhNVZzDwpWrZUGjusPSWBACwXT3dKSyf1xq1RljHSSjQs7HySsQ==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/advocacy</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Kansas wheat farmer hosts Farm Bill listening session

Hear this month's Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and Sunflower Diversified Services' Shelby Zuniga and Mandy Grizzell. The show aired May 10, 2023.

The Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Sunflower Show with Eagle Radio's Scott Donovan and Sunflower Diversified Services' Shelby Zuniga and Mandy Grizzell. The show aired May 10, 2023.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/b52z5rld/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Sunflower Show airs the second Wednesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎧Sunflower Show: Shelby Zuniga & Mandy Grizzell

Barton Community College has announced its 2022-23 Brant J. Ballhorst Student Ambassadors of the Year. Named in memory of Brant J. Ballhorst, the award recognizes two outstanding Student Ambassadors each year. The winners this year were Dakota Aumiller of Great Bend and Addison Smith of Hoisington.

This year marked the 19th anniversary of the award. The Admissions office also named Bradley Beck of Great Bend as the recipient of this year’s “The Rock” award, which is presented to students who go above and beyond the call of duty in assisting the Admissions office. The award recipients were chosen by their peers and Barton’s Admissions staff.

Ambassador of the Year: Dakota Aumiller Aumiller is a freshman and is a member of the varsity cheer team. He will return to Barton next year, and after that, he plans to attend Kansas State University (KSU) and be on their cheer team. He plans to get his bachelor’s degree in communications. He is the son of Takowa and Arturo Ramirez.

Ambassador of the Year: Addison Smith Smith has been involved in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor society, Community Service Organization, and Barton Spark. She is a sophomore and will transfer to Fort Hays State University in the fall to study elementary education. She is the daughter of Dee Ann Smith and the late Gary Smith.

The Rock Award: Bradley Beck Beck is a freshman and is a member of the sports medicine team at Barton and is an athletic trainer for the baseball team. He will return to Barton next year, and after that, he plans to attend KSU and get his master’s degree in athletic training. He is the son of Randy and Daphne Beck.&nbsp;

About Brant J. Ballhorst and the award From Smith Center, Ballhorst was a 2002 Barton graduate and former Student Ambassador. Despite health concerns throughout his time at Barton, he was the model Ambassador. He balanced a challenging course schedule and golf team commitment while remaining dedicated to his role as a Student Ambassador. Ballhorst was a respected peer and cherished friend of many on campus, especially the Admissions Office. His determination and dedication touched the lives of everyone he met.

He graduated from Barton with a degree in pre-pharmacy and attended the School of Pharmacy at the University of Kansas. He was a student at KU until his death on Aug. 5, 2004. He always had a good attitude about his illness and joked that it was good education for his major. He was the son of John and Gayle Ballhorst of Smith Center.

Barton will continue to honor Ballhorst’s achievements, character, personality, and work ethic by awarding future Ambassadors of the Year in his memory. A permanent plaque dedicated in his honor is displayed in the corridor of the Kirkman Activity Center on Barton’s campus.

For more information, contact Director of Admissions Tana Cooper at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:coopert@bartonccc.edu">coopert@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9241.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683915510994.jpeg" alt="(From Left) Ambassadors of the Year award winners Dakota Aumiller, Addison Smith, and "The Rock" Award winner Bradley Beck." />
 <figcaption>(From Left) Ambassadors of the Year award winners Dakota Aumiller, Addison Smith, and "The Rock" Award winner Bradley Beck.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaBarton Community College has announced its 2022-23 Brant J. Ballhorst Student Ambassadors of the Year. Named in memory of Brant J. Ballhorst, the award recognizes two outstanding Student Ambassadors each year. The winners this year were Dakota Aumiller of Great Bend and Addison Smith of Hoisington.This year marked the 19th anniversary of the award. The Admissions office also named Bradley Beck of Great Bend as the recipient of this year’s “The Rock” award, which is presented to students who go above and beyond the call of duty in assisting the Admissions office. The award recipients were chosen by their peers and Barton’s Admissions staff.Ambassador of the Year: Dakota Aumiller Aumiller is a freshman and is a member of the varsity cheer team. He will return to Barton next year, and after that, he plans to attend Kansas State University (KSU) and be on their cheer team. He plans to get his bachelor’s degree in communications. He is the son of Takowa and Arturo Ramirez.Ambassador of the Year: Addison Smith Smith has been involved in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor society, Community Service Organization, and Barton Spark. She is a sophomore and will transfer to Fort Hays State University in the fall to study elementary education. She is the daughter of Dee Ann Smith and the late Gary Smith.The Rock Award: Bradley Beck Beck is a freshman and is a member of the sports medicine team at Barton and is an athletic trainer for the baseball team. He will return to Barton next year, and after that, he plans to attend KSU and get his master’s degree in athletic training. He is the son of Randy and Daphne Beck.&nbsp;About Brant J. Ballhorst and the award From Smith Center, Ballhorst was a 2002 Barton graduate and former Student Ambassador. Despite health concerns throughout his time at Barton, he was the model Ambassador. He balanced a challenging course schedule and golf team commitment while remaining dedicated to his role as a Student Ambassador. Ballhorst was a respected peer and cherished friend of many on campus, especially the Admissions Office. His determination and dedication touched the lives of everyone he met.He graduated from Barton with a degree in pre-pharmacy and attended the School of Pharmacy at the University of Kansas. He was a student at KU until his death on Aug. 5, 2004. He always had a good attitude about his illness and joked that it was good education for his major. He was the son of John and Gayle Ballhorst of Smith Center.Barton will continue to honor Ballhorst’s achievements, character, personality, and work ethic by awarding future Ambassadors of the Year in his memory. A permanent plaque dedicated in his honor is displayed in the corridor of the Kirkman Activity Center on Barton’s campus.For more information, contact Director of Admissions Tana Cooper at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:coopert@bartonccc.edu">coopert@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9241.

Barton recognizes Student Ambassadors of the Year

I hope that you are enjoying learning about the wide variety of 4-H projects available to our youth! In 4-H, we look for a SPARK that inspires a young person to learn, grow, explore, and potentially lead to a career or lifetime hobby. Any of these project areas may just be the spark that inspires someone in your world.

This week we are looking at some very different projects.

Many of us have had a dog at some point in our life and learning to care for and train a dog is a big responsibility! Youth in the Dog Care and Training project learn about different breeds and their characteristics and why some dogs are better suited for different families. Youth explore dog behavior and body language as well as grooming and nutrition. In this unique partnership, youth and their dog work on obedience training with a goal of showmanship and agility training.

Another interesting project area with the potential for a career is Home Environment. This project explores decorating a room, and experimenting with colors and patterns. While I had no goal of interior design, I did participate in this project in 4-H and, with the help of my dad, designed and decorated my bedroom. This is a project I look back fondly on as it challenged me to coordinate my personal style with a budget, colors, furniture, and fabrics.

An active and extensive area of 4-H is Shooting Sports! This project area covers a variety of disciplines from Archery to Muzzleloading. Important aspects include safety first then learning the skills of a specific discipline. We have a great group of youth across the district who are representing themselves, their clubs, and our program at local, regional, and state matches. Shooting Sports is represented during the fair by poster displays so be sure to check those out!

If you are interested in learning more about these or other 4-H projects, check out kansas4-h.org in the Projects section! All projects include communications skills, record keeping, career connections, and opportunities for leadership and community service!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910. Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>I hope that you are enjoying learning about the wide variety of 4-H projects available to our youth! In 4-H, we look for a SPARK that inspires a young person to learn, grow, explore, and potentially lead to a career or lifetime hobby. Any of these project areas may just be the spark that inspires someone in your world.This week we are looking at some very different projects.Many of us have had a dog at some point in our life and learning to care for and train a dog is a big responsibility! Youth in the Dog Care and Training project learn about different breeds and their characteristics and why some dogs are better suited for different families. Youth explore dog behavior and body language as well as grooming and nutrition. In this unique partnership, youth and their dog work on obedience training with a goal of showmanship and agility training.Another interesting project area with the potential for a career is Home Environment. This project explores decorating a room, and experimenting with colors and patterns. While I had no goal of interior design, I did participate in this project in 4-H and, with the help of my dad, designed and decorated my bedroom. This is a project I look back fondly on as it challenged me to coordinate my personal style with a budget, colors, furniture, and fabrics.An active and extensive area of 4-H is Shooting Sports! This project area covers a variety of disciplines from Archery to Muzzleloading. Important aspects include safety first then learning the skills of a specific discipline. We have a great group of youth across the district who are representing themselves, their clubs, and our program at local, regional, and state matches. Shooting Sports is represented during the fair by poster displays so be sure to check those out!If you are interested in learning more about these or other 4-H projects, check out kansas4-h.org in the Projects section! All projects include communications skills, record keeping, career connections, and opportunities for leadership and community service!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910. Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: Some 'very different' 4-H projects

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory update for Lake Melvern, Osage County, due to blue-green algae. There have been no additional health advisories issued for Kansas lakes.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA1MTEuNzY2MTAyODEifQ.znP7XffeCHtbcyCjcQEZatpbmAk420lUbxABlDoxn7o/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTExLjc2NjEwMjgxIn0.lD1lwGzUKhJ5Qf19fgMLvLlp7e2Slv98UNQf_oHDDec/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTExLjc2NjEwMjgxIn0.Htyb5_GD6VD7bKiR-VocmfwhJr9B_L8L1pkmeicbOkM/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory update for Lake Melvern, Osage County, due to blue-green algae. There have been no additional health advisories issued for Kansas lakes.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA1MTEuNzY2MTAyODEifQ.znP7XffeCHtbcyCjcQEZatpbmAk420lUbxABlDoxn7o/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active Advisories&nbsp;Watch<ul>
 <li>Melvern Lake, Osage County (Lowered on May 11)</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist. &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. &nbsp;Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. &nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. &nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided. &nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded. &nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae. &nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible. &nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.&nbsp;</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions. &nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTExLjc2NjEwMjgxIn0.lD1lwGzUKhJ5Qf19fgMLvLlp7e2Slv98UNQf_oHDDec/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTExLjc2NjEwMjgxIn0.Htyb5_GD6VD7bKiR-VocmfwhJr9B_L8L1pkmeicbOkM/s/1305943097/br/187810692541-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

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

Russell's Original Art Review (ROAR) commissioned a new mural in Russell to pay tribute to Derril Castor. Buck Arnold, from Olathe, painted the mural at the intersection of 9th Street and Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683823088212.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell's Original Art Review (ROAR) commissioned a new mural in Russell to pay tribute to Derril Castor. Buck Arnold, from Olathe, painted the mural at the intersection of 9th Street and Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683823126739.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

A new mural completed in Russell

The Barton County Planning Commission has many rules and regulations to follow. At a recent planning commission meeting, Planning Commissioner JC Bosch made a motion that could impact solar energy conversion development in the county. Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham explained the issue to the Barton County Commission Wednesday morning.

"When it was his turn to address the planning commission, he made a motion to exclude commercial solar facilities within six miles of Cheyenne Bottoms," Goreham said. "There were five of the nine planning commissioners that approved that."

Goreham's recommendation, however, was for the board of commissioners to return the proposed changes to the planning commission with the request of inviting interested parties into the discussion, notifying any affected landowners, and specifying exact boundaries for the excluded area.

"For example, a random six miles will probably not hit property lines, roads," said Goreham. "It could crossover on many things, which would be very difficult to enforce, so delineating the map is important. Most important is to hold a public hearing."

County Counselor Patrick Hoffman agreed the matter needed to go back before the planning commission. "To do a zoning amendment properly, it needs to go before a public hearing so affected landowners have the opportunity to be heard," he said. "That's what Judy and I are recommending you guys follow today."

The board of commissioners voted 5-0 to send the proposal back to the planning commission, and later voted 4-1 to implement a moratorium on any solar developments in the county until Dec. 31, 2023. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645553719617.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Planning Commission has many rules and regulations to follow. At a recent planning commission meeting, Planning Commissioner JC Bosch made a motion that could impact solar energy conversion development in the county. Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham explained the issue to the Barton County Commission Wednesday morning."When it was his turn to address the planning commission, he made a motion to exclude commercial solar facilities within six miles of Cheyenne Bottoms," Goreham said. "There were five of the nine planning commissioners that approved that."Goreham's recommendation, however, was for the board of commissioners to return the proposed changes to the planning commission with the request of inviting interested parties into the discussion, notifying any affected landowners, and specifying exact boundaries for the excluded area."For example, a random six miles will probably not hit property lines, roads," said Goreham. "It could crossover on many things, which would be very difficult to enforce, so delineating the map is important. Most important is to hold a public hearing."County Counselor Patrick Hoffman agreed the matter needed to go back before the planning commission. "To do a zoning amendment properly, it needs to go before a public hearing so affected landowners have the opportunity to be heard," he said. "That's what Judy and I are recommending you guys follow today."The board of commissioners voted 5-0 to send the proposal back to the planning commission, and later voted 4-1 to implement a moratorium on any solar developments in the county until Dec. 31, 2023.

Barton Commission sends proposed solar amendment back to planning board

The start of summer is not officially until June 21, but
the Great Bend Recreation Commission has their summer already scheduled out,
especially when it comes to baseball and softball tournaments coming to town.
The Great Bend Sports Complex is booked for a USA Softball tournament this
weekend, USSSA Baseball next weekend, then the Class 2-1A State Baseball
Tournament and plenty of Hap Dumont tournaments on the horizon. 

Great Bend Rec
Sports Director Paul Zamarripa said all those tournaments do not even include
the rec leagues for youth and adults. "We also have adult softball signup going on right now," said Zamarripa. "Adult softball isn't as big as it used to be, but we still have teams that want to play. We make it work so they can play two or three times a week."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683731669535.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe start of summer is not officially until June 21, but
the Great Bend Recreation Commission has their summer already scheduled out,
especially when it comes to baseball and softball tournaments coming to town.
The Great Bend Sports Complex is booked for a USA Softball tournament this
weekend, USSSA Baseball next weekend, then the Class 2-1A State Baseball
Tournament and plenty of Hap Dumont tournaments on the horizon. Great Bend Rec
Sports Director Paul Zamarripa said all those tournaments do not even include
the rec leagues for youth and adults. "We also have adult softball signup going on right now," said Zamarripa. "Adult softball isn't as big as it used to be, but we still have teams that want to play. We make it work so they can play two or three times a week."<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/3ce8444f-65e9-4063-919b-aa85850b1c84">RELATED STORY: Need more ballfields; idea to transform Harms Field in Great Bend</a> 
The Great Bend Rec will have 24 youth baseball teams and 21 softball teams this
year. Coach’s meetings will be held this week with practices starting next
week. Enrollment for other summer activities is open. View the summer activity guide by visiting <a href="https://greatbendrec.com/activity-guide/">greatbendrec.com</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683731939251.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

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