By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A pilot and mechanic that works at the Great Bend Municipal Airport on a
daily basis addressed the Great Bend City Council Monday night out of concern about
trash and debris that exists around the airport grounds. 
Sunflower Diversified Services owns a property in the Industrial Park, just
south of the airport, where they store recyclable materials that will be
shipped out to recycling mills in different cities. The recycling program
stores the materials in open-top containers outside, which causes problems of
blowing out on windy days. 
Cameron Sweitzer told the city council he has filed complaints with
code enforcement about the problem for the past two years with little results
in fixing the problem. 
"It's disgusting," said Sweitzer. "The right-of-ways, farm fields, the ditches that flow to the Arkansas River...they're all filled with milk jugs, pop cans and shredded paper. Common sense says we shouldn't store these things outside in open-top containers in Kansas. The wind blows and blows it all over."

Sweitzer said he has picked up tax documents, accounting information from the Great Bend Public Library and other various forms that were intended to be recycled.

"The trash that ends up on airport runway lighting concerns me, as far as my life, my property and anyone that flies in and out of the airport," said Sweitzer. "It's a big thing to me. Their recklessness could potentially injure me." 
Great Bend Code Enforcement employee Hoyt Kinsinger echoed Sweitzer’s concern
that the situation is a mess. 
Sunflower Executive Director Shelby Zuniga told the council the company is very aware of the situation and are currently attacking the issue. During the last week of December, Sunflower ended their working relationship with their former director of production and recycling. Mandy Grizzell stepped into the position in January to get the facility caught up.

"We were getting behind with recycling," said Zuniga. "For the last two years, our facility has been backing up during COVID when we were really short staffed. We have 4'-x-4' boxes we store the materials in, and we typically cover them with pallets to keep the material down."

Zuniga said a Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) inspector came out to the facility last Friday and did not cite any concerns. 
"One, we know that reactively we have to pick up when the winds blow like they did last week," said Zuniga. "Proactively, we are getting ahead of the issue so that it doesn't become an issue anymore. I do we feel have staff in place that is going to make that happen." 
Zuniga informed the council that Sunflower crews typically go out to the site once
a week to clean up debris that blew away. Sunflower is also applying for a
grant through KDHE for better storage options for materials to help keep the
product more secure.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679368389888.jpeg" alt="Picture of trash around the Great Bend Municipal Airport grounds" />
 <figcaption>Picture of trash around the Great Bend Municipal Airport grounds</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA pilot and mechanic that works at the Great Bend Municipal Airport on a
daily basis addressed the Great Bend City Council Monday night out of concern about
trash and debris that exists around the airport grounds. 
Sunflower Diversified Services owns a property in the Industrial Park, just
south of the airport, where they store recyclable materials that will be
shipped out to recycling mills in different cities. The recycling program
stores the materials in open-top containers outside, which causes problems of
blowing out on windy days. 
Cameron Sweitzer told the city council he has filed complaints with
code enforcement about the problem for the past two years with little results
in fixing the problem. 
"It's disgusting," said Sweitzer. "The right-of-ways, farm fields, the ditches that flow to the Arkansas River...they're all filled with milk jugs, pop cans and shredded paper. Common sense says we shouldn't store these things outside in open-top containers in Kansas. The wind blows and blows it all over."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679369820964.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sweitzer said he has picked up tax documents, accounting information from the Great Bend Public Library and other various forms that were intended to be recycled."The trash that ends up on airport runway lighting concerns me, as far as my life, my property and anyone that flies in and out of the airport," said Sweitzer. "It's a big thing to me. Their recklessness could potentially injure me." 
Great Bend Code Enforcement employee Hoyt Kinsinger echoed Sweitzer’s concern
that the situation is a mess. 
Sunflower Executive Director Shelby Zuniga told the council the company is very aware of the situation and are currently attacking the issue. During the last week of December, Sunflower ended their working relationship with their former director of production and recycling. Mandy Grizzell stepped into the position in January to get the facility caught up."We were getting behind with recycling," said Zuniga. "For the last two years, our facility has been backing up during COVID when we were really short staffed. We have 4'-x-4' boxes we store the materials in, and we typically cover them with pallets to keep the material down."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679369850476.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Zuniga said a Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) inspector came out to the facility last Friday and did not cite any concerns. 
"One, we know that reactively we have to pick up when the winds blow like they did last week," said Zuniga. "Proactively, we are getting ahead of the issue so that it doesn't become an issue anymore. I do we feel have staff in place that is going to make that happen." 
Zuniga informed the council that Sunflower crews typically go out to the site once
a week to clean up debris that blew away. Sunflower is also applying for a
grant through KDHE for better storage options for materials to help keep the
product more secure.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

How recycling is turning into litter at Great Bend airport

Great Bend Police
Department Incident Log (3/20) 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 6:09 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the county was reported at
MM 111 on N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Stroke 
 
At 7:53 a.m. a stroke was reported at 1612 Heizer. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:23 a.m. dogs at large was reported at 4th &amp; Dogwood. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 10:21 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3118 25th Street. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 10:36 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3907 Broadway. 
 
Theft 
 
At 10:53 a.m. Cindy Carson reported possible theft of a vehicle at 1649 K-96
Highway. Vehicle was located on the property. 
 
Overdose / Poisoning 
 
At 11:54 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park Pl. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 1:43 p.m. a report of a vehicle cutting her off in the construction zone was
made at 2716 10th. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 9:34 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at Lakin &amp; Stone. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 11:37 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 2907 24th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Police
Department Incident Log (3/20) 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 6:09 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the county was reported at
MM 111 on N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Stroke 
 
At 7:53 a.m. a stroke was reported at 1612 Heizer. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 9:23 a.m. dogs at large was reported at 4th &amp; Dogwood. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 10:21 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3118 25th Street. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 10:36 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3907 Broadway. 
 
Theft 
 
At 10:53 a.m. Cindy Carson reported possible theft of a vehicle at 1649 K-96
Highway. Vehicle was located on the property. 
 
Overdose / Poisoning 
 
At 11:54 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3910 Cedar Park Pl. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 1:43 p.m. a report of a vehicle cutting her off in the construction zone was
made at 2716 10th. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 9:34 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at Lakin &amp; Stone. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 11:37 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 2907 24th Street.

Cop Shop (3/20)

Alan Clark grew up around Barton Community College basketball, whether
it has been as a coach, player, referee or working in nearby Jayhawk Conference
towns. 
When Clark took over the Barton women’s basketball program in 2016, the team
was coming off a 14-17 season, only the seventh losing record in the program’s
46 years of competition. After spending the previous four years as the
assistant for the Cougars, Clark’s mission was to return the program back to
the top of the Jayhawk Conference and compete for Region VI titles. 
“I was excited to get the job,” said Clark. “I felt like I was ready. I had
seen what Tony Hobson did here. I saw what Lane Lord did. I was hoping to get
the program back to where they had it. It took longer than I thought, but we
finally got there.” 
Now in his seventh year as head coach, Clark, along with assistant coach Bridgette
Griffin, have guided the women’s basketball team back to the NJCAA National
Tournament for the first time since 2008. The Cougars received the #16-seed, of
the 24-team tournament, and will play Moberly Area Community College on
Wednesday, March 22 in Lubbock, Texas.

A 1978 graduate from Barton Community College, Clark played point guard for the
Cougar basketball team. He was a member of the 1976-1977 team that won the
school’s first ever Jayhawk West Conference title with a 27-3 overall record. 
“Playing at Barton was one of the best times of my life,” said Clark. “Coming
in here and playing for Lorin Miller. It was a great experience. We lost in the
Region VI Championship that year. I’m glad these girls are able to live some of
what I was able to do back in that time.” 
Following his playing career at Midland Lutheran College (now known as Midland
University) in Fremont, Nebraska, Clark became a successful businessman while
becoming a sports official. Serving as a referee, Clark officiated numerous
Jayhawk Conference and Region VI playoff games.

He spent three years coaching
Otis-Bison High School boys basketball prior to arriving to Barton in 2012. While at Otis-Bison, Clark’s teams went to the state tournament twice,
including a runner-up finish in 2011. 
“Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs told me a young coach, Carter Kruger,
was going to be promoted as head coach,” said Clark. “He wanted to know if I
wanted to become an assistant to provide some experience.” 
Clark learned a lot as an assistant the next four years. The biggest change was
learning how to coach women. 
“Carter taught me some nuances that women do in basketball,” said Clark. “Mostly
about coaching in the post.”

After compiling a record of 33-30 after his first two seasons at Barton, Clark’s
team broke through with a 23-10 campaign in 2019 and made it to the Region VI
semifinals. 
“Even before that, I felt like a turning point was the 2018 season when we beat
Seward County here at home,” said Clark. “We then beat Butler on a last-second
shot a couple games later. Those were some of the schools that we were chasing.
Winning those two games at home was kind of the start of hey, we can do this.” 
In 2020, thanks to a buzzer-beating three-pointer against Hutchinson in the
semifinals, the Cougars reached their first Region VI Championship game in 12
years. 
“Vanessa Oduah’s basket to beat Hutch was another big step,” said Clark. “Breaking
that losing streak against Hutch was nice. Even though we lost badly to Butler
in the finals that year, we were able to take another step.” 
That would be the beginning of four straight appearances in the Region VI title
game for the Cougars. After suffering defeat the previous three, Barton picked
up a 60-56 win over Coffeyville on March 11 to win their first Region VI
Championship in 15 years. 
“I got text messages from former players and parents of former players,” said
Clark. “They know how hard their kids worked at it. A lot of four-year coaches
have been watching us for years, and they reached out to us and told us good
job. It’s pretty neat.” The 2021 Jayhawk Conference West Coach of the Year, Clark is 143-79 in seven years and ranks second for most wins in Barton
history. 
“Each year has just been a little bit better,” said Clark. “With the talent
coming back this year, we felt like it was finally time for us to take that
last step and win the Region.” 
The Cougars’ game against Moberly Wednesday will tipoff at 10 a.m. in Lubbock.
The broadcast will begin at 9:45 a.m. on 104.3 FM and online at
<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=kvgbfm2">greatbendpost.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679339148591.jpeg" alt="Alan Clark, Barton Community College women's basketball coach, was able to cut down the nets this year after winning the Region VI Championship on March 11. The Cougars will play in the NJCAA National Tournament on Wednesday, March 22. (photo by Ed Bailey)" />
 <figcaption>Alan Clark, Barton Community College women's basketball coach, was able to cut down the nets this year after winning the Region VI Championship on March 11. The Cougars will play in the NJCAA National Tournament on Wednesday, March 22. (photo by Ed Bailey)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAlan Clark grew up around Barton Community College basketball, whether
it has been as a coach, player, referee or working in nearby Jayhawk Conference
towns. 
When Clark took over the Barton women’s basketball program in 2016, the team
was coming off a 14-17 season, only the seventh losing record in the program’s
46 years of competition. After spending the previous four years as the
assistant for the Cougars, Clark’s mission was to return the program back to
the top of the Jayhawk Conference and compete for Region VI titles. 
“I was excited to get the job,” said Clark. “I felt like I was ready. I had
seen what Tony Hobson did here. I saw what Lane Lord did. I was hoping to get
the program back to where they had it. It took longer than I thought, but we
finally got there.” 
Now in his seventh year as head coach, Clark, along with assistant coach Bridgette
Griffin, have guided the women’s basketball team back to the NJCAA National
Tournament for the first time since 2008. The Cougars received the #16-seed, of
the 24-team tournament, and will play Moberly Area Community College on
Wednesday, March 22 in Lubbock, Texas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679339452269.jpeg" alt="photo by Ed Bailey" />
 <figcaption>photo by Ed Bailey</figcaption>
 </figure>A 1978 graduate from Barton Community College, Clark played point guard for the
Cougar basketball team. He was a member of the 1976-1977 team that won the
school’s first ever Jayhawk West Conference title with a 27-3 overall record. 
“Playing at Barton was one of the best times of my life,” said Clark. “Coming
in here and playing for Lorin Miller. It was a great experience. We lost in the
Region VI Championship that year. I’m glad these girls are able to live some of
what I was able to do back in that time.” 
Following his playing career at Midland Lutheran College (now known as Midland
University) in Fremont, Nebraska, Clark became a successful businessman while
becoming a sports official. Serving as a referee, Clark officiated numerous
Jayhawk Conference and Region VI playoff games. He spent three years coaching
Otis-Bison High School boys basketball prior to arriving to Barton in 2012. While at Otis-Bison, Clark’s teams went to the state tournament twice,
including a runner-up finish in 2011. 
“Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs told me a young coach, Carter Kruger,
was going to be promoted as head coach,” said Clark. “He wanted to know if I
wanted to become an assistant to provide some experience.” 
Clark learned a lot as an assistant the next four years. The biggest change was
learning how to coach women. 
“Carter taught me some nuances that women do in basketball,” said Clark. “Mostly
about coaching in the post.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679339546756.jpeg" alt="photo by Ed Bailey" />
 <figcaption>photo by Ed Bailey</figcaption>
 </figure>After compiling a record of 33-30 after his first two seasons at Barton, Clark’s
team broke through with a 23-10 campaign in 2019 and made it to the Region VI
semifinals. 
“Even before that, I felt like a turning point was the 2018 season when we beat
Seward County here at home,” said Clark. “We then beat Butler on a last-second
shot a couple games later. Those were some of the schools that we were chasing.
Winning those two games at home was kind of the start of hey, we can do this.” 
In 2020, thanks to a buzzer-beating three-pointer against Hutchinson in the
semifinals, the Cougars reached their first Region VI Championship game in 12
years. 
“Vanessa Oduah’s basket to beat Hutch was another big step,” said Clark. “Breaking
that losing streak against Hutch was nice. Even though we lost badly to Butler
in the finals that year, we were able to take another step.” 
That would be the beginning of four straight appearances in the Region VI title
game for the Cougars. After suffering defeat the previous three, Barton picked
up a 60-56 win over Coffeyville on March 11 to win their first Region VI
Championship in 15 years. 
“I got text messages from former players and parents of former players,” said
Clark. “They know how hard their kids worked at it. A lot of four-year coaches
have been watching us for years, and they reached out to us and told us good
job. It’s pretty neat.” The 2021 Jayhawk Conference West Coach of the Year, Clark is 143-79 in seven years and ranks second for most wins in Barton
history. 
“Each year has just been a little bit better,” said Clark. “With the talent
coming back this year, we felt like it was finally time for us to take that
last step and win the Region.” 
The Cougars’ game against Moberly Wednesday will tipoff at 10 a.m. in Lubbock.
The broadcast will begin at 9:45 a.m. on 104.3 FM and online at
<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=kvgbfm2">greatbendpost.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679339638245.jpeg" alt="photo by Ed Bailey" />
 <figcaption>photo by Ed Bailey</figcaption>
 </figure>

Coach Clark: Putting Barton basketball on a 'national' level again

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 14 to 20 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 40. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.

Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy, with an east wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.

Wednesday Night Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 38. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 25 mph becoming northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 38 mph.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 58. North wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Thursday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Friday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 51.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28.

Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 14 to 20 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 40. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy, with an east wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.Wednesday Night Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 38. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 18 to 25 mph becoming northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 38 mph.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 58. North wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Thursday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.Friday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 51.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51.Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28.Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

KIOWA COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol a 1997 Chrysler Cirrus driven by Cordell L.&nbsp;Jeffcoat, 28, Wood Lake, Nebraska was northbound on U.S. 183 one mile west of Greensburg.

The driver&nbsp; failed to yield at the stop sign at U.S. 54. A westbound&nbsp; 2020 Freightliner semi driven by David C. Cox, 71, Cedar City, Utah, struck the car.

EMS transported&nbsp;Jeffcoat and a passenger in the Chrysler Tacie&nbsp;Hawkins, 52, Wood Lake, Nebraska to Wesley Medical Center and Audrey R.&nbsp;Brawner, 21, Newport, Nebraska, to the hospital in Greensburg. Cox was not injured. Jeffcoat and Hawkins were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

KIOWA COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol a 1997 Chrysler Cirrus driven by Cordell L.&nbsp;Jeffcoat, 28, Wood Lake, Nebraska was northbound on U.S. 183 one mile west of Greensburg.The driver&nbsp; failed to yield at the stop sign at U.S. 54. A westbound&nbsp; 2020 Freightliner semi driven by David C. Cox, 71, Cedar City, Utah, struck the car.EMS transported&nbsp;Jeffcoat and a passenger in the Chrysler Tacie&nbsp;Hawkins, 52, Wood Lake, Nebraska to Wesley Medical Center and Audrey R.&nbsp;Brawner, 21, Newport, Nebraska, to the hospital in Greensburg. Cox was not injured. Jeffcoat and Hawkins were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

3 hospitalized after semi, car crash in Kiowa Co.

Not only did the Great Bend City Council turn down the latest request
for specialized business parking, the governing body voted 5-2 Monday night to
remove all existing 15-minute parking stalls designated for businesses around
town. 
In February, the Great Bend Tribune requested a 15-minute parking stall in
front of their building on Forest Avenue to assist elderly citizens accessing
their business. After a month of research, the council was informed there are
currently nine, 15-minute parking spots throughout town. Councilmember Cory Urban
made the motion to eliminate all special parking for businesses. "I just think you can't play favorites with businesses," said Urban. "If we're going to continue to grow, people are going to have to get used to walking a couple of spots or half a block. It's just the way it works in larger, busier areas. We're eventually going to have lofts downtown. We're going to have other parking issues. It's one step in starting to clean that process up." 
The Tribune requested a parking stall be reserved in front of their business
between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Councilmember Jolene Biggs
noted there might need to be communication amongst the business owners
downtown. 
"I think it comes down to businesses telling their staff that they cannot park in front of another business," said Biggs. "That's where the dilemma seems to be. It sounds like there is an individual at one of the businesses that always parks at the Tribune spot. The business owners downtown need to address that." 
The nine existing 15-minute parking stalls will be removed which includes two
stalls in front of City Hall on Williams, three for Equity Bank on Main Street,
two for Hejny Liquor on Main, one for That One Groomer on Williams and one for
Lumpy’s Bar and Grill behind their restaurant on Forest Avenue.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677084295742.jpeg" alt="The Great Bend City Council voted to remove all 15-minute parking stalls for businesses throughout town on Monday, March 20, 2023." />
 <figcaption>The Great Bend City Council voted to remove all 15-minute parking stalls for businesses throughout town on Monday, March 20, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostNot only did the Great Bend City Council turn down the latest request
for specialized business parking, the governing body voted 5-2 Monday night to
remove all existing 15-minute parking stalls designated for businesses around
town. 
In February, the Great Bend Tribune requested a 15-minute parking stall in
front of their building on Forest Avenue to assist elderly citizens accessing
their business. After a month of research, the council was informed there are
currently nine, 15-minute parking spots throughout town. Councilmember Cory Urban
made the motion to eliminate all special parking for businesses. "I just think you can't play favorites with businesses," said Urban. "If we're going to continue to grow, people are going to have to get used to walking a couple of spots or half a block. It's just the way it works in larger, busier areas. We're eventually going to have lofts downtown. We're going to have other parking issues. It's one step in starting to clean that process up." 
The Tribune requested a parking stall be reserved in front of their business
between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Councilmember Jolene Biggs
noted there might need to be communication amongst the business owners
downtown. 
"I think it comes down to businesses telling their staff that they cannot park in front of another business," said Biggs. "That's where the dilemma seems to be. It sounds like there is an individual at one of the businesses that always parks at the Tribune spot. The business owners downtown need to address that." 
The nine existing 15-minute parking stalls will be removed which includes two
stalls in front of City Hall on Williams, three for Equity Bank on Main Street,
two for Hejny Liquor on Main, one for That One Groomer on Williams and one for
Lumpy’s Bar and Grill behind their restaurant on Forest Avenue.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend to remove all 15-minute parking stalls for businesses

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a proclamation to kick off National Poison Prevention Week.&nbsp;The Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind Kansans that Poison Centers are ready 24/7 with fast, free advice.

The theme for this year’s National Poison Prevention Week is Poison Centers – When Poison happens, we’re here for you.

Not everyone realizes that Poison Centers are for everyone. While poison centers get more calls about children, calls about teens, adults and older adults tend to be more serious. Over half of the calls to the Kansas Poison Center in 2022 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide, and many other nonpharmaceutical substances.

“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home. This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or simply have questions,”&nbsp;said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Control Center.

Here are the ways Poison Centers save time, worry, lives and money:

Time When seconds count, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.

Worry Nurses, pharmacists and doctors answer calls. We can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to us for help every day.

Lives Whether it is a question or an emergency, Poison Centers provide life-saving information when you need it the most.

Money All calls are free. More than 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.

“It is also important to know Poison Centers are not just for emergencies. You can call anytime from anywhere in the nation for information or advice from local experts,”&nbsp;said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.

If you think someone has been poisoned, call 800-222-1222 right away. Fast and free expert help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2NTY3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAxLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz9kYXRhPTAyJTdDMDElN0NDaGVyaWUuU2FnZSU0MGtzLmdvdiU3Q2FmMmI5YTYxOWU5MjRkM2FiYjgyMDhkN2M5ZThiZmMxJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzNzE5OTg3Mzc4OTgyMzcwMiZyZXNlcnZlZD0wJnNkYXRhPXM4dEI1YUZ6a0pFRnZZMmxia0oyMHVMQ1JYZ0pCMGdpRGMzV01CSzJJb1ElM0QmdXJsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cua2Fuc2FzaGVhbHRoc3lzdGVtLmNvbSUyRnBvaXNvbiUzRnV0bV9tZWRpdW0lM0RlbWFpbCUyNnV0bV9zb3VyY2UlM0Rnb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.JJDek3a50arwARKrB0DiYNMvC2yWmrbzmKRwoPSZLqg/s/1305943097/br/156418973846-l" target="_blank">kansashealthsystem.com/poison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2NTY3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRza2Fuc2FzLm9yZy9wb2lzb25fcHJldmVudGlvbi5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.ZlhVhpliRoiXjN56NdgcRYZw7xjoahFhIjCb_iWwUHo/s/1305943097/br/156418973846-l" target="_blank">safekidskansas.org/poison_prevention.htm</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581098275300.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a proclamation to kick off National Poison Prevention Week.&nbsp;The Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind Kansans that Poison Centers are ready 24/7 with fast, free advice.The theme for this year’s National Poison Prevention Week is Poison Centers – When Poison happens, we’re here for you.Not everyone realizes that Poison Centers are for everyone. While poison centers get more calls about children, calls about teens, adults and older adults tend to be more serious. Over half of the calls to the Kansas Poison Center in 2022 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide, and many other nonpharmaceutical substances.“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home. This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or simply have questions,”&nbsp;said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Control Center.Here are the ways Poison Centers save time, worry, lives and money:Time When seconds count, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.Worry Nurses, pharmacists and doctors answer calls. We can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to us for help every day.Lives Whether it is a question or an emergency, Poison Centers provide life-saving information when you need it the most.Money All calls are free. More than 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.“It is also important to know Poison Centers are not just for emergencies. You can call anytime from anywhere in the nation for information or advice from local experts,”&nbsp;said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.If you think someone has been poisoned, call 800-222-1222 right away. Fast and free expert help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.JJDek3a50arwARKrB0DiYNMvC2yWmrbzmKRwoPSZLqg/s/1305943097/br/156418973846-l" target="_blank">kansashealthsystem.com/poison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2NTY3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRza2Fuc2FzLm9yZy9wb2lzb25fcHJldmVudGlvbi5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.ZlhVhpliRoiXjN56NdgcRYZw7xjoahFhIjCb_iWwUHo/s/1305943097/br/156418973846-l" target="_blank">safekidskansas.org/poison_prevention.htm</a>.

March 19-25 is National Poison Prevention Week

News From The Oil Patch, 3/20/2023 John P. Tretbar

Drilling for natural gas spiked last week despite prices at two-year lows. Baker Hughes reported an increase of nine active natural-gas rigs as of March 17. Oil rigs were down one. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday reported increases in drilling activity in the Permian and Marcellus shale plays. The closely-watched Henry Hub natural gas spot price in February averaged a dollar lower than the month before and three dollars lower than in December. Monday's futures prices are the lowest since September of 2020. Crude prices in New York remain at 15-month lows Monday, trading below $67 after dropping more than a dollar and a half on Friday. At CHS in McPherson prices were own $1.50 to $57 per barrel. Kansas operators have spudded 216 wells so far this year, down 20% from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports an estimated total depth of 667-thousand feet, which is down 26.4% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was up one rig statewide, with 12 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, down two, and 27 west of Wichita, which is up three rigs. Kansas regulators approved 34 new drilling locations in Kansas, with 20 in Western Kansas, including one new permit in Barton County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 439 newly-completed wells statewide. Fifteen of those were in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Ellis County. The Energy Information Administration reported a spike in US crude inventories for the week, up 1.6 million barrels to 480.1 million as of March 10th. US crude stockpiles are about seven percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reports a slight increase in US crude production last week, up more than 150-thousand barrels to 12.244 million per day. Output is up more than 600-thousand barrels per day from a year ago. EIA said US crude imports last week dropped by 55,000 barrels per day.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, imports are down 1.1% from the same four weeks a year ago. Production in the number-three crude-producing state rebounded from a big blizzard downturn. Output in North Dakota reached 1.06 million barrels per day in January, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. That's up 11% from the month before, when winter weather shut down about one-third of the state's oil patch. The last time statewide output dipped below a million barrels per day in North Dakota was after a pair of spring blizzards back in April of last year. Gasoline prices across the USA Thursday were down slightly from a week earlier, up four cents from a month earlier, and down 54 cents year over year. The auto club AAA said diesel prices are down more than 77 cents a gallon from a year ago.&nbsp; Prices in Kansas average just over $3.46 per gallon. Several Kansas counties were below $3 on Monday. Crude-oil exports set a record last year at 3.6 million barrels per day, a 22% increase from the year before. The Energy Information Administration says growth was driven by increased U.S. production, strategic petroleum releases, and increased global demand for alternatives to Russia’s crude. EIA says our top customers were South Korea, the Netherlands and the UK.&nbsp; According to the report, exports to India and China declined dramatically last year but were more than offset by increases to Europe and elsewhere.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News From The Oil Patch, 3/20/2023 John P. TretbarDrilling for natural gas spiked last week despite prices at two-year lows. Baker Hughes reported an increase of nine active natural-gas rigs as of March 17. Oil rigs were down one. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday reported increases in drilling activity in the Permian and Marcellus shale plays. The closely-watched Henry Hub natural gas spot price in February averaged a dollar lower than the month before and three dollars lower than in December. Monday's futures prices are the lowest since September of 2020. Crude prices in New York remain at 15-month lows Monday, trading below $67 after dropping more than a dollar and a half on Friday. At CHS in McPherson prices were own $1.50 to $57 per barrel. Kansas operators have spudded 216 wells so far this year, down 20% from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports an estimated total depth of 667-thousand feet, which is down 26.4% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was up one rig statewide, with 12 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, down two, and 27 west of Wichita, which is up three rigs. Kansas regulators approved 34 new drilling locations in Kansas, with 20 in Western Kansas, including one new permit in Barton County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 439 newly-completed wells statewide. Fifteen of those were in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Ellis County. The Energy Information Administration reported a spike in US crude inventories for the week, up 1.6 million barrels to 480.1 million as of March 10th. US crude stockpiles are about seven percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reports a slight increase in US crude production last week, up more than 150-thousand barrels to 12.244 million per day. Output is up more than 600-thousand barrels per day from a year ago. EIA said US crude imports last week dropped by 55,000 barrels per day.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, imports are down 1.1% from the same four weeks a year ago. Production in the number-three crude-producing state rebounded from a big blizzard downturn. Output in North Dakota reached 1.06 million barrels per day in January, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. That's up 11% from the month before, when winter weather shut down about one-third of the state's oil patch. The last time statewide output dipped below a million barrels per day in North Dakota was after a pair of spring blizzards back in April of last year. Gasoline prices across the USA Thursday were down slightly from a week earlier, up four cents from a month earlier, and down 54 cents year over year. The auto club AAA said diesel prices are down more than 77 cents a gallon from a year ago.&nbsp; Prices in Kansas average just over $3.46 per gallon. Several Kansas counties were below $3 on Monday. Crude-oil exports set a record last year at 3.6 million barrels per day, a 22% increase from the year before. The Energy Information Administration says growth was driven by increased U.S. production, strategic petroleum releases, and increased global demand for alternatives to Russia’s crude. EIA says our top customers were South Korea, the Netherlands and the UK.&nbsp; According to the report, exports to India and China declined dramatically last year but were more than offset by increases to Europe and elsewhere.

News from the Oil Patch: Prices sink, but drilling spikes

Shamrocks, leprechauns, and pots o’ gold create St. Patrick’s Day legends. As a child, I expected tales Mom told must be true and anyone lucky enough to stumble upon a rainbow’s end would find a leprechauns’ pot of gold. That said, I can’t name a single human who actually found the end of the rainbow with its container filled with precious metal.

As a storyteller’s offspring should, I perpetuated this myth for my children. Naturally, I brought little green folk jigging to life so that our children might envision wee beings at work and play.

After creating a magical world and sending our fair lassies in search of four-leaf clovers, I found a serious problem confronting me when a spring downpour delivered a stunning rainbow. Our eldest was no fool; nor was the youngest. Based on my stories, they knew we had only to follow this colorful bridge to its end to find shiny coins spilling from a black kettle.

Nothing would do til I loaded tots into our green boat, an old Mercury Marquis, buckled seatbelts, and began searching for the rainbow’s end somewhere between Ellis and Hays. Once on Old 40, we pursued that beacon like bloodhounds on a scent trail.

With a one-and-a-half-year-old echoing everything she heard, a sharp-eyed five-year-old navigator, plus a visiting friend and her child, we set off to find fortune. Everything’s more fun when shared—especially foolishness.

High spirits and laughter filled our car as we jaunted east. Crossing fingers that the rainbow wouldn’t fade before we found its end, we imagined spending the loot. Girls wanted candy and toys. I wished for something more practical, along the line of a car with a roof-liner that remained glued in place instead of drooping onto the driver’s head.

As we neared Yocemento, the rainbow’s r-o-y-g-b-i-v colors intensified. Rounding the bend, we noted the bright arch ended just north and west of Yocemento where Old 40 angled. I turned onto a sandy road to a chorus of, “It’s closer! Look, Mom, it’s just over there!”

Just over there meant I must follow a lane paralleling the north side of Big Creek. I felt nearly as excited as the kids, not because I thought I’d find gold, but because I never expected to see where a rainbow ended.

Our navigators nailed it! The search stopped with us parked at the entrance to a muddy drive. We looked in amazement at the exact place where refracted light contacted earth.

Of course, the kids immediately noticed no pot of gold lay on this magical spot. My friend and I rolled down our windows and breathed in a perfect watercolor day intensifying, defining, perfecting hues of rainbow, sky, trees, grass, and soil. It felt like something hand-placed our adventuresome band into a masterpiece.

The story ended perfectly. No gold. No leprechauns. But…a goose--a story book goose, white and prissy—stood where rainbow met grass. It nibbled greens while we gazed. That bird had no idea of its role in forming a lifetime memory for mothers and daughters on a rainy-day lark.

Decades later, when I see a rainbow over Yocemento way, I wonder if a white goose stands at its end.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679322678175.jpeg" alt="written by: Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Shamrocks, leprechauns, and pots o’ gold create St. Patrick’s Day legends. As a child, I expected tales Mom told must be true and anyone lucky enough to stumble upon a rainbow’s end would find a leprechauns’ pot of gold. That said, I can’t name a single human who actually found the end of the rainbow with its container filled with precious metal.As a storyteller’s offspring should, I perpetuated this myth for my children. Naturally, I brought little green folk jigging to life so that our children might envision wee beings at work and play.After creating a magical world and sending our fair lassies in search of four-leaf clovers, I found a serious problem confronting me when a spring downpour delivered a stunning rainbow. Our eldest was no fool; nor was the youngest. Based on my stories, they knew we had only to follow this colorful bridge to its end to find shiny coins spilling from a black kettle.Nothing would do til I loaded tots into our green boat, an old Mercury Marquis, buckled seatbelts, and began searching for the rainbow’s end somewhere between Ellis and Hays. Once on Old 40, we pursued that beacon like bloodhounds on a scent trail.With a one-and-a-half-year-old echoing everything she heard, a sharp-eyed five-year-old navigator, plus a visiting friend and her child, we set off to find fortune. Everything’s more fun when shared—especially foolishness.High spirits and laughter filled our car as we jaunted east. Crossing fingers that the rainbow wouldn’t fade before we found its end, we imagined spending the loot. Girls wanted candy and toys. I wished for something more practical, along the line of a car with a roof-liner that remained glued in place instead of drooping onto the driver’s head.As we neared Yocemento, the rainbow’s r-o-y-g-b-i-v colors intensified. Rounding the bend, we noted the bright arch ended just north and west of Yocemento where Old 40 angled. I turned onto a sandy road to a chorus of, “It’s closer! Look, Mom, it’s just over there!”Just over there meant I must follow a lane paralleling the north side of Big Creek. I felt nearly as excited as the kids, not because I thought I’d find gold, but because I never expected to see where a rainbow ended.Our navigators nailed it! The search stopped with us parked at the entrance to a muddy drive. We looked in amazement at the exact place where refracted light contacted earth.Of course, the kids immediately noticed no pot of gold lay on this magical spot. My friend and I rolled down our windows and breathed in a perfect watercolor day intensifying, defining, perfecting hues of rainbow, sky, trees, grass, and soil. It felt like something hand-placed our adventuresome band into a masterpiece.The story ended perfectly. No gold. No leprechauns. But…a goose--a story book goose, white and prissy—stood where rainbow met grass. It nibbled greens while we gazed. That bird had no idea of its role in forming a lifetime memory for mothers and daughters on a rainy-day lark.Decades later, when I see a rainbow over Yocemento way, I wonder if a white goose stands at its end.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: The goose at the end of the rainbow

House Agriculture Committee Hosts Texas Listening Session, Producers Express Need for Strengthened Farm Safety Net in Next Farm Bill

House Agriculture Committee Chairman, Congressman G.T. Thompson (R-PA), hosted a Farm Bill Listening Session in Waco, Texas, on Wednesday alongside Representatives Pete Sessions (R-TX), Austin Scott (R-GA), Jim Baird (R-IN), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Tracey Mann (R-KS), and Jasmine Crockett (D-TX). Farmers, ranchers, and representatives from agriculture businesses from across the region used the listening session to call for increases to reference prices, expanded crop insurance options, and a greater investment in order to strengthen the farm safety net. National Sorghum Producers Past Chairman Kody Carson echoed these priorities, testifying on behalf of NSP. A full recording of the listening session may be viewed&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=63d31f8e2b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a9aae029a1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Commodity Group Leaders Discuss Farm Bill Priorities at Annual Commodity Classic Meeting, Highlight Crop Insurance as a Top Priority

National Sorghum Producers Chairman Craig Meeker participated on a panel of commodity group leaders also including Tom Haag, President of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), Nicole Berg, former President of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), Daryl Cates, President of the American Soybean Association, and Bill Hurley, Chairman of the Board of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which convened to discuss each groups’ priorities in the upcoming Farm Bill. Speaking to the need of sufficient budgetary resources, Meeker remarked, “How do we have a relevant [Farm] Bill without new money?” The panelists also agreed that maintaining crop insurance was a top priority. “We always have individuals that want to take [crop insurance] away from us,” stated Haag. Berg stated, “What we need is a farm with a safety net without the gaping holes we have now.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b7b2cd7e2e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

USDA Secretary Vilsack Testifies Before Senate Agriculture Committee, Ranking Member Boozman Calls for “Reinforced” Farm Safety Net

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0545678e1b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">testified</a>&nbsp;before the Senate Agriculture Committee on Thursday morning. Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) took the opportunity to emphasize the need for a reinforced safety net stating, “When I meet with farmers, they tell me the safety net is badly frayed and needs to be reinforced. The 2014 Farm Bill was successful in moving agriculture away from direct payments to need-based support during times of low prices or low revenue. That was nearly a decade ago. Farm programs have not kept up pace with the needs of modern agriculture and are not responsive in the face of pandemics or geopolitical pressures. The current safety net does not reflect the current levels of risk taken on each year by those that provide the food, fiber, and fuel we depend on.” Senator John Thune (R-SD) also addressed the $250 billion plus up of SNAP programs that occurred in August 2021, stating, “The changes that were made administratively in the SNAP program to the tune of a quarter of a trillion dollars – that’s not a rounding error…To think about…the implications that has for the Farm Bill, we are now talking about a Farm Bill baseline of $1.5 trillion. This is territory we’ve never come close to hitting. He added, “If changes are going to be made in some of those programs, they should be made by Congress, and not by the&nbsp;Administration.” Chairwoman, Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), added, “Spending on nutrition programs does not rob resources from other Farm Bill programs, just as crop insurance doesn’t rob resources from other programs when disaster strikes and spending goes up. [T]hreats we are hearing from some in the House in favor of reckless and indiscriminate mandatory budget cuts will result in cuts to all Farm Bill programs.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8cb7338855&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

400 Agriculture Groups Send Letter to Budget Committee Leadership Requesting Sufficient Budgetary Resources for a “More Meaningful, Predictable Farm Safety Net”

In a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4e28a6557d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;sent Tuesday to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of both the Senate and House Budget Committees, over 400 agriculture groups, including National Sorghum Producers, made the case for “sufficient budgetary resources to write a new bipartisan, multi-year, comprehensive, and meaningful [Farm Bill].” The letter highlights the need for a “more meaningful, predictable farm safety net,” citing the 2018 trade war with China that “hardly triggered the farm safety net provided in the current Farm Bill”. The letter also urges that the Budget Committees provide budgetary resources to assist in facilitating a move away from ad-hoc disaster assistance, declaring, “Ad hoc assistance is necessary in times of need but is not a timely, reliable, or predictable safety net for farmers and ranchers. The upcoming farm bill reauthorization provides an opportunity to address very real needs in agriculture and rely less on off-budget ad hoc assistance.” The letter also encourages the protection and enhancement of crop insurance. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4e2198dc9d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Bipartisan, Bicameral Year-Round E15 Legislation Introduced, Industry Leaders Applaud Move

Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) on Tuesday reintroduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023. The bill would enable the “year-round, nationwide sale of ethanol blends higher than 10 percent, helping to lower fuel prices and provide certainty in fuel markets for farmers and consumers,” according to a release from Senator Klobuchar. Companion&nbsp;legislation in the House was introduced this week following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent announcement that it would delay implementation of year-round E15 until 2024, a move that was widely criticized by industry leaders. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0961be9efb&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1ec231d25c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Senate to Vote to Block WOTUS Rule Next Week, Senator Cramer Expresses Concerns Over WOTUS Overreach

Following House passage of a Congressional Review Act (CRA) measure to block the Biden Administration’s WOTUS Rule, the Senate next week may well follow suit although President Biden has already signaled that he would veto the measure if it reaches his desk. At a hearing held by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on Wednesday, Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) remarked, “Since the [Environmental Protection Agency] unveiled the [WOTUS] rule, I've heard from a lot of those stakeholders, constituents, and others who are concerned the new rule really embodies some of the same government overreach of the 2015 rule. Also concerning was the rule’s shift in applying the burden of proof, and this is a very specific issue – the burden of proof on the landowners for proving that their land is non-jurisdictional.” Senator Cramer and Senate colleagues issued the formal challenge to WOTUS through a CRA measure last month. The WOTUS rule, as it stands, will go into effect next Monday, March 20. The Supreme Court has yet to render a ruling on the breath of EPA’s authority to regulate waters under the Clean Water Act. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=dc101cd624&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Senators Marshall, Grassley Request Clarification on Secretary Vilsack’s Claim That USDA Was Not Consulted by Justice Department Over Glyphosate Use

USDA Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee on Thursday morning. In advance of the hearing, Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to Secretary Vilsack, requesting clarification over testimony from the Secretary’s May 26, 2022 appearance before the Committee. According to a release from Senator Marshall, “During that hearing, Secretary Vilsack claimed that the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) was not consulted by the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding a matter before the Supreme Court concerning the safe use of glyphosate. Ultimately, the U.S. Solicitor General reversed the federal government’s long-held view on federal preemption and decided to side with the Plaintiffs Bar instead of the agricultural industry. However, on February 2, 2023, DOJ informed Senator Marshall that USDA was invited to share its views in the&nbsp;Monsanto&nbsp;case.” Added the Senators, “If USDA failed to provide any views when requested to do so by the DOJ, have you as Secretary taken any corrective action to discipline those who failed to communicate the interests of American agriculture? American agriculture must have confidence that the Department of Agriculture understands the concerns that agricultural producers face and can effectively communicate those concerns to Departments in Washington, DC, that do not know the difference between a corn and soybean field.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6bfd9b1924&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Precision Agriculture Gets Bipartisan, Bicameral Focus in Multiple Pieces of Legislation Aimed at Improving Access to Technology

A recent flurry of legislation has shown the importance that precision agriculture technology may have in the upcoming Farm Bill. Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA), both Members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently introduced the Promoting Precision Agriculture Act. According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5f1aae15c2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">release</a>&nbsp;from Senator Thune, “The bill would establish a partnership between the government and the private sector to develop voluntary interconnectivity standards and prioritize the cybersecurity needs for precision agriculture technologies.” Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Deb Fischer (R-NE), also Members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, introduced two separate bills aimed at expanding access to precision agriculture equipment. The first piece of legislation, The Precision Agriculture Loan Act (PAL) Act, “would create a program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide loan financing to farmers and ranchers interested in purchasing precision agriculture equipment,” according to a release from Senator Fischer. Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced companion legislation to the PAL Act in the House. The second piece of legislation introduced by Senators Klobuchar and Fischer is the Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment (PRECISE) Act, which would “provide a suite of financial tools to help farmers and ranchers of all sizes increase their adoption of precision ag technologies through existing USDA conservation programs.” Companion legislation to the PRECISE Act was introduced in the House by Representatives Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and Angie Craig (D-MN). Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=63823861aa&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

Save-the-Date and Register for the Third Annual Sorghum PAC Golf Tournament

The 2023 Sorghum PAC Series will conclude with the Third Annual Sorghum PAC Golf Tournament, co-sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0bad453f87&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Alta Seeds</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c0085efc5e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">UPL</a>. The event will take place April 29, 2023, at the Mariah Hills Golf Course in Dodge City, Kansas, and feature a four-person scramble. Mark your calendars for a day of fun, networking and friendly competition. For sponsor, donation and registration information, contact Sorghum PAC Series coordinator Jamaca Battin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com" target="_blank">jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-421-8927. Interested in a hole sponsorship? Register&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b28a233a43&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b7b820d03d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Register Team</a>.

Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff Releases Weekly&nbsp; Sorghum&nbsp;Basis Snapshot

The&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff, with Southwest Agribusiness Consulting, released its weekly&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;basis snapshot, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6b677bbfa5&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumCheckoff.com</a>.

To view this week’s Gulf export grain report, click&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8597b3ae80&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

About Sorghum Notes Sorghum&nbsp;Notes&nbsp;is a publication of the National&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Producers. NSP represents U.S.&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;producers and serves as the voice of the&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;industry from coast to coast through education and legislative and regulatory representation. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=57dbbfed1e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">www.SorghumGrowers.com</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure><h2>House Agriculture Committee Hosts Texas Listening Session, Producers Express Need for Strengthened Farm Safety Net in Next Farm Bill</h2>House Agriculture Committee Chairman, Congressman G.T. Thompson (R-PA), hosted a Farm Bill Listening Session in Waco, Texas, on Wednesday alongside Representatives Pete Sessions (R-TX), Austin Scott (R-GA), Jim Baird (R-IN), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Tracey Mann (R-KS), and Jasmine Crockett (D-TX). Farmers, ranchers, and representatives from agriculture businesses from across the region used the listening session to call for increases to reference prices, expanded crop insurance options, and a greater investment in order to strengthen the farm safety net. National Sorghum Producers Past Chairman Kody Carson echoed these priorities, testifying on behalf of NSP. A full recording of the listening session may be viewed&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=63d31f8e2b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a9aae029a1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. <h2>Commodity Group Leaders Discuss Farm Bill Priorities at Annual Commodity Classic Meeting, Highlight Crop Insurance as a Top Priority</h2>National Sorghum Producers Chairman Craig Meeker participated on a panel of commodity group leaders also including Tom Haag, President of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), Nicole Berg, former President of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), Daryl Cates, President of the American Soybean Association, and Bill Hurley, Chairman of the Board of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which convened to discuss each groups’ priorities in the upcoming Farm Bill. Speaking to the need of sufficient budgetary resources, Meeker remarked, “How do we have a relevant [Farm] Bill without new money?” The panelists also agreed that maintaining crop insurance was a top priority. “We always have individuals that want to take [crop insurance] away from us,” stated Haag. Berg stated, “What we need is a farm with a safety net without the gaping holes we have now.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b7b2cd7e2e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>USDA Secretary Vilsack Testifies Before Senate Agriculture Committee, Ranking Member Boozman Calls for “Reinforced” Farm Safety Net</h2>Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0545678e1b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">testified</a>&nbsp;before the Senate Agriculture Committee on Thursday morning. Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) took the opportunity to emphasize the need for a reinforced safety net stating, “When I meet with farmers, they tell me the safety net is badly frayed and needs to be reinforced. The 2014 Farm Bill was successful in moving agriculture away from direct payments to need-based support during times of low prices or low revenue. That was nearly a decade ago. Farm programs have not kept up pace with the needs of modern agriculture and are not responsive in the face of pandemics or geopolitical pressures. The current safety net does not reflect the current levels of risk taken on each year by those that provide the food, fiber, and fuel we depend on.” Senator John Thune (R-SD) also addressed the $250 billion plus up of SNAP programs that occurred in August 2021, stating, “The changes that were made administratively in the SNAP program to the tune of a quarter of a trillion dollars – that’s not a rounding error…To think about…the implications that has for the Farm Bill, we are now talking about a Farm Bill baseline of $1.5 trillion. This is territory we’ve never come close to hitting. He added, “If changes are going to be made in some of those programs, they should be made by Congress, and not by the&nbsp;Administration.” Chairwoman, Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), added, “Spending on nutrition programs does not rob resources from other Farm Bill programs, just as crop insurance doesn’t rob resources from other programs when disaster strikes and spending goes up. [T]hreats we are hearing from some in the House in favor of reckless and indiscriminate mandatory budget cuts will result in cuts to all Farm Bill programs.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8cb7338855&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;<h2>400 Agriculture Groups Send Letter to Budget Committee Leadership Requesting Sufficient Budgetary Resources for a “More Meaningful, Predictable Farm Safety Net”</h2>In a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4e28a6557d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;sent Tuesday to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of both the Senate and House Budget Committees, over 400 agriculture groups, including National Sorghum Producers, made the case for “sufficient budgetary resources to write a new bipartisan, multi-year, comprehensive, and meaningful [Farm Bill].” The letter highlights the need for a “more meaningful, predictable farm safety net,” citing the 2018 trade war with China that “hardly triggered the farm safety net provided in the current Farm Bill”. The letter also urges that the Budget Committees provide budgetary resources to assist in facilitating a move away from ad-hoc disaster assistance, declaring, “Ad hoc assistance is necessary in times of need but is not a timely, reliable, or predictable safety net for farmers and ranchers. The upcoming farm bill reauthorization provides an opportunity to address very real needs in agriculture and rely less on off-budget ad hoc assistance.” The letter also encourages the protection and enhancement of crop insurance. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4e2198dc9d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>Bipartisan, Bicameral Year-Round E15 Legislation Introduced, Industry Leaders Applaud Move</h2>Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) on Tuesday reintroduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023. The bill would enable the “year-round, nationwide sale of ethanol blends higher than 10 percent, helping to lower fuel prices and provide certainty in fuel markets for farmers and consumers,” according to a release from Senator Klobuchar. Companion&nbsp;legislation in the House was introduced this week following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent announcement that it would delay implementation of year-round E15 until 2024, a move that was widely criticized by industry leaders. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0961be9efb&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1ec231d25c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>Senate to Vote to Block WOTUS Rule Next Week, Senator Cramer Expresses Concerns Over WOTUS Overreach</h2>Following House passage of a Congressional Review Act (CRA) measure to block the Biden Administration’s WOTUS Rule, the Senate next week may well follow suit although President Biden has already signaled that he would veto the measure if it reaches his desk. At a hearing held by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on Wednesday, Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) remarked, “Since the [Environmental Protection Agency] unveiled the [WOTUS] rule, I've heard from a lot of those stakeholders, constituents, and others who are concerned the new rule really embodies some of the same government overreach of the 2015 rule. Also concerning was the rule’s shift in applying the burden of proof, and this is a very specific issue – the burden of proof on the landowners for proving that their land is non-jurisdictional.” Senator Cramer and Senate colleagues issued the formal challenge to WOTUS through a CRA measure last month. The WOTUS rule, as it stands, will go into effect next Monday, March 20. The Supreme Court has yet to render a ruling on the breath of EPA’s authority to regulate waters under the Clean Water Act. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=dc101cd624&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>Senators Marshall, Grassley Request Clarification on Secretary Vilsack’s Claim That USDA Was Not Consulted by Justice Department Over Glyphosate Use</h2>USDA Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee on Thursday morning. In advance of the hearing, Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to Secretary Vilsack, requesting clarification over testimony from the Secretary’s May 26, 2022 appearance before the Committee. According to a release from Senator Marshall, “During that hearing, Secretary Vilsack claimed that the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) was not consulted by the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding a matter before the Supreme Court concerning the safe use of glyphosate. Ultimately, the U.S. Solicitor General reversed the federal government’s long-held view on federal preemption and decided to side with the Plaintiffs Bar instead of the agricultural industry. However, on February 2, 2023, DOJ informed Senator Marshall that USDA was invited to share its views in the&nbsp;Monsanto&nbsp;case.” Added the Senators, “If USDA failed to provide any views when requested to do so by the DOJ, have you as Secretary taken any corrective action to discipline those who failed to communicate the interests of American agriculture? American agriculture must have confidence that the Department of Agriculture understands the concerns that agricultural producers face and can effectively communicate those concerns to Departments in Washington, DC, that do not know the difference between a corn and soybean field.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6bfd9b1924&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>Precision Agriculture Gets Bipartisan, Bicameral Focus in Multiple Pieces of Legislation Aimed at Improving Access to Technology</h2>A recent flurry of legislation has shown the importance that precision agriculture technology may have in the upcoming Farm Bill. Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA), both Members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently introduced the Promoting Precision Agriculture Act. According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5f1aae15c2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">release</a>&nbsp;from Senator Thune, “The bill would establish a partnership between the government and the private sector to develop voluntary interconnectivity standards and prioritize the cybersecurity needs for precision agriculture technologies.” Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Deb Fischer (R-NE), also Members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, introduced two separate bills aimed at expanding access to precision agriculture equipment. The first piece of legislation, The Precision Agriculture Loan Act (PAL) Act, “would create a program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide loan financing to farmers and ranchers interested in purchasing precision agriculture equipment,” according to a release from Senator Fischer. Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced companion legislation to the PAL Act in the House. The second piece of legislation introduced by Senators Klobuchar and Fischer is the Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment (PRECISE) Act, which would “provide a suite of financial tools to help farmers and ranchers of all sizes increase their adoption of precision ag technologies through existing USDA conservation programs.” Companion legislation to the PRECISE Act was introduced in the House by Representatives Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and Angie Craig (D-MN). Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=63823861aa&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;<h2>Save-the-Date and Register for the Third Annual Sorghum PAC Golf Tournament</h2>The 2023 Sorghum PAC Series will conclude with the Third Annual Sorghum PAC Golf Tournament, co-sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0bad453f87&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Alta Seeds</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c0085efc5e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">UPL</a>. The event will take place April 29, 2023, at the Mariah Hills Golf Course in Dodge City, Kansas, and feature a four-person scramble. Mark your calendars for a day of fun, networking and friendly competition. For sponsor, donation and registration information, contact Sorghum PAC Series coordinator Jamaca Battin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com" target="_blank">jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-421-8927. Interested in a hole sponsorship? Register&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b28a233a43&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b7b820d03d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Register Team</a>.<h2>Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff Releases Weekly&nbsp; Sorghum&nbsp;Basis Snapshot</h2>The&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff, with Southwest Agribusiness Consulting, released its weekly&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;basis snapshot, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6b677bbfa5&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumCheckoff.com</a>. <h2>Market News</h2>To view this week’s Gulf export grain report, click&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8597b3ae80&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. About Sorghum Notes Sorghum&nbsp;Notes&nbsp;is a publication of the National&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Producers. NSP represents U.S.&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;producers and serves as the voice of the&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;industry from coast to coast through education and legislative and regulatory representation. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=57dbbfed1e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">www.SorghumGrowers.com</a>.

National Sorghum Producers - Sorghum Notes

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of the zoo’s beloved Bald Eagle, Mrs. B. About two weeks ago, staff noticed she was not behaving herself, so she was moved inside, and diagnostic testing was run. Results showed some of her blood levels were elevated which could indicate infection, or something more serious, like cancer. Staff treated her through the weekend and tried to keep her eating, but her health continued to decline, so we made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her Monday morning.

Visitors and any staff who’ve cared for her, can take solace in knowing that she was provided an extremely long and enriched life, as she’s one of the oldest, if not the oldest bald eagle. She lived here at the zoo for 44 years and it is believed she was an adult when she arrived, which would likely make her at least 49 years old.

Mrs. B came to the zoo through the Raptor Rehabilitation program in 1979. She had an injury to her left foot that made it difficult for her to be able to hunt properly, so she was given a permanent home here at the zoo. She has educated thousands in our community and visitors who’ve come from across the world about Bald Eagles. Those who’ve worked with her loved her spunky personality and she always had a greeting for you when you came down the sidewalk.

Unfortunately, due to federal regulations we are unable to submit her for necropsy, so we won’t have definitive answers as to her decline. Per federal regulations, she will be submitted to the National Eagle Repository. The repository’s “main purpose is to receive, evaluate, store and distribute dead golden and bald eagles, parts and feathers to Native Americans and Alaska Natives who are enrolled members of federally recognized tribes throughout the United States.&nbsp; Also, to develop and provide educational programs regarding wildlife trade, wildlife laws, raptors and the Native American eagle feather program.”&nbsp; Mrs. B will be greatly missed in our community, and we encourage all to share any photos or memories you may have with zoo staff on the Zoo’s Facebook page ‘Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo’

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 </figure>From the City of Great Bend...It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of the zoo’s beloved Bald Eagle, Mrs. B. About two weeks ago, staff noticed she was not behaving herself, so she was moved inside, and diagnostic testing was run. Results showed some of her blood levels were elevated which could indicate infection, or something more serious, like cancer. Staff treated her through the weekend and tried to keep her eating, but her health continued to decline, so we made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her Monday morning.Visitors and any staff who’ve cared for her, can take solace in knowing that she was provided an extremely long and enriched life, as she’s one of the oldest, if not the oldest bald eagle. She lived here at the zoo for 44 years and it is believed she was an adult when she arrived, which would likely make her at least 49 years old.Mrs. B came to the zoo through the Raptor Rehabilitation program in 1979. She had an injury to her left foot that made it difficult for her to be able to hunt properly, so she was given a permanent home here at the zoo. She has educated thousands in our community and visitors who’ve come from across the world about Bald Eagles. Those who’ve worked with her loved her spunky personality and she always had a greeting for you when you came down the sidewalk.Unfortunately, due to federal regulations we are unable to submit her for necropsy, so we won’t have definitive answers as to her decline. Per federal regulations, she will be submitted to the National Eagle Repository. The repository’s “main purpose is to receive, evaluate, store and distribute dead golden and bald eagles, parts and feathers to Native Americans and Alaska Natives who are enrolled members of federally recognized tribes throughout the United States.&nbsp; Also, to develop and provide educational programs regarding wildlife trade, wildlife laws, raptors and the Native American eagle feather program.”&nbsp; Mrs. B will be greatly missed in our community, and we encourage all to share any photos or memories you may have with zoo staff on the Zoo’s Facebook page ‘Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo’

Great Bend zoo announces death of bald eagle

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

The Great Bend Chamber is excited to announce our next Shop Talk in 60 event titled "SWOT and Your Business". This event is designed to help business owners learn about the importance of conducting a SWOT analysis and how it can benefit their business.

If you're not familiar with SWOT, it stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. By conducting a SWOT analysis, business owners can identify what their company does well, where they can improve, what opportunities are available in the market, and what potential threats could harm their business.

Understanding these factors can help business owners make informed decisions, develop strategic plans, and improve their overall performance in the marketplace. Whether you're a startup or an established business, a SWOT analysis is an essential tool that should be utilized regularly.

The best part? This event is free to attend! All we ask is that you bring your own lunch (BYOL). So come join us and network with other business owners, and learn about how a SWOT analysis can take your business to the next level.

Who should attend? Business owners, Supervisors, Managers, Entrepreneurs, and just anyone looking to learn from others or share their experiences.

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=781421&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1816782&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2Fshop-talk-in-60-swot-and-your-business-11620%3FcalendarMonth%3D2023-03-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=36a5acc3898f8af8ab040ed09ad206c74ab4c42d7c1df7885ea072a8dcbf02eb" target="_blank">Click here to register!</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679060601263.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...The Great Bend Chamber is excited to announce our next Shop Talk in 60 event titled "SWOT and Your Business". This event is designed to help business owners learn about the importance of conducting a SWOT analysis and how it can benefit their business.If you're not familiar with SWOT, it stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. By conducting a SWOT analysis, business owners can identify what their company does well, where they can improve, what opportunities are available in the market, and what potential threats could harm their business.Understanding these factors can help business owners make informed decisions, develop strategic plans, and improve their overall performance in the marketplace. Whether you're a startup or an established business, a SWOT analysis is an essential tool that should be utilized regularly.The best part? This event is free to attend! All we ask is that you bring your own lunch (BYOL). So come join us and network with other business owners, and learn about how a SWOT analysis can take your business to the next level.Who should attend? Business owners, Supervisors, Managers, Entrepreneurs, and just anyone looking to learn from others or share their experiences.<h2>March 21, 2023</h2><a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=781421&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1816782&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2Fshop-talk-in-60-swot-and-your-business-11620%3FcalendarMonth%3D2023-03-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=36a5acc3898f8af8ab040ed09ad206c74ab4c42d7c1df7885ea072a8dcbf02eb" target="_blank">Click here to register!</a>

'Shop Talk in 60' with the Great Bend Chamber

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

College is all about building connections. That's paying off for Barton Community College Head Dance Coach Sabrina Boyd. Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleader Ashton Thomas was a Classy Cat dancer alongside Boyd at Kansas State University. Thomas will be hosting the 2023 Spring Clinic at BCC on April 22 for high school and college-aged dancers who want to know what it's like to prepare for game day.

"Pretty much how the day will go is she's going to do some warm-ups with them, go across the floor, then she'll be teaching a sideline, as well as a 45-second routine," Boyd said.

Cost for the clinic is $10 at the door, though pre-registration is required. Attendees need to arrive at BCC's Kirkman Building between 9:15 and 9:45 a.m. that Saturday morning. The clinic will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a snack provided. Attendees are asked to bring their own water bottles. 

The clinic is open for all high school and college-aged dancers. Attire is anything comfortable. <a href="https://form.jotform.com/230678040653051?fbclid=IwAR0CyH81lrIVIJKrHF4SVl9OAzL71-pCZVL6ZXHLIz2Le6W819Q-sKXyL7g">CLICK HERE</a> to pre-register for the clinic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679079602381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCollege is all about building connections. That's paying off for Barton Community College Head Dance Coach Sabrina Boyd. Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleader Ashton Thomas was a Classy Cat dancer alongside Boyd at Kansas State University. Thomas will be hosting the 2023 Spring Clinic at BCC on April 22 for high school and college-aged dancers who want to know what it's like to prepare for game day."Pretty much how the day will go is she's going to do some warm-ups with them, go across the floor, then she'll be teaching a sideline, as well as a 45-second routine," Boyd said.Cost for the clinic is $10 at the door, though pre-registration is required. Attendees need to arrive at BCC's Kirkman Building between 9:15 and 9:45 a.m. that Saturday morning. The clinic will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a snack provided. Attendees are asked to bring their own water bottles. The clinic is open for all high school and college-aged dancers. Attire is anything comfortable. <a href="https://form.jotform.com/230678040653051?fbclid=IwAR0CyH81lrIVIJKrHF4SVl9OAzL71-pCZVL6ZXHLIz2Le6W819Q-sKXyL7g">CLICK HERE</a> to pre-register for the clinic.

NFL cheerleader hosting game-day dance clinic at BCC

This week’s 4-H project highlight is Everything STEM! Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math cross over to so many day-to-day areas!

When we think of STEM, we usually think of robotics or Unmanned Aerial Systems but 4-H STEM project learning includes AG Mechanics (welding), Architectural Block Construction (ABC), Computer Science, Electricity/Electronics, Renewable Energy, Rocketry/Aerospace, and Small Engines!

Ag mechanics, small engines, electricity, and ABC all have the potential for pursuing jobs in welding, mechanic work, electricians, drafting, and construction! Additionally, those same interests can lead youth to pursue careers in vo-ag/vo-tech education, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture or architectural engineering.

The rocketry part of the STEM project has been around the longest and helps youth explore all the pieces of aerospace.

You never know what youth with an interest in renewable energy or unmanned aerial systems will develop the next technology to solve issues for all of us! An important part of the STEM project areas is to develop with scientific skills of hypothesis, experimentation, recording of results and the always important, patience and perseverance.

When I think of the wealth of STEM-related jobs in our area, I am amazed at the opportunities. Many manufacturing jobs require STEM skills or understanding to progress. Crop and livestock companies are increasingly using unmanned aerial systems to check watersheds, irrigation systems, and pest or weed management issues without needing to disturb the soil. There is always a need for good electricians and builders!

In particular, the Ag Mechanics/Welding area has really grown in the last year and I’m excited to continue to see that growth. ABC continues to challenge youth to think spatially and sets them up for construction work, architecture, or construction science. Rocketry will continue to be one of our bigger STEM project areas as it includes the fun of building and then launching your creation!

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>This week’s 4-H project highlight is Everything STEM! Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math cross over to so many day-to-day areas!When we think of STEM, we usually think of robotics or Unmanned Aerial Systems but 4-H STEM project learning includes AG Mechanics (welding), Architectural Block Construction (ABC), Computer Science, Electricity/Electronics, Renewable Energy, Rocketry/Aerospace, and Small Engines!Ag mechanics, small engines, electricity, and ABC all have the potential for pursuing jobs in welding, mechanic work, electricians, drafting, and construction! Additionally, those same interests can lead youth to pursue careers in vo-ag/vo-tech education, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture or architectural engineering.The rocketry part of the STEM project has been around the longest and helps youth explore all the pieces of aerospace.You never know what youth with an interest in renewable energy or unmanned aerial systems will develop the next technology to solve issues for all of us! An important part of the STEM project areas is to develop with scientific skills of hypothesis, experimentation, recording of results and the always important, patience and perseverance.When I think of the wealth of STEM-related jobs in our area, I am amazed at the opportunities. Many manufacturing jobs require STEM skills or understanding to progress. Crop and livestock companies are increasingly using unmanned aerial systems to check watersheds, irrigation systems, and pest or weed management issues without needing to disturb the soil. There is always a need for good electricians and builders!In particular, the Ag Mechanics/Welding area has really grown in the last year and I’m excited to continue to see that growth. ABC continues to challenge youth to think spatially and sets them up for construction work, architecture, or construction science. Rocketry will continue to be one of our bigger STEM project areas as it includes the fun of building and then launching your creation!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: 4-H project highlight - Everything STEM

No worries. Golden Belt Beef's close on Monday and Tuesday, March 20-21, is just a temporary one. In the long run, the closure will benefit the company and customers as a new, bigger store is constructed at the current location of 1105 N. U.S. Highway 281 in St. John. Tessa Lickiss with Golden Belt Beef said the store will otherwise remain open during construction.

"What we have now, honestly, we call it the Little Red Shed," she said. "It's kind of a glorified garden shed. We're going to move that across the driveway on Sunday, then we'll be constructing an actual building that will sit there that is about three times the size of what we have now."

Golden Belt Beef operates two stores in St. John and Overland Park. Even with the bigger facility, Lickiss said the plan is to stick to beef-only products, but the store does offer virtually every cut of beef for sale to the public.

"We have no storage space at the store we're at now, so everything is stored here in our main office and freezers in the basement," she said. "By doing this, we'll be able to have a walk-in freezer to keep more storage on hand out there. We're processing 14 head a week right now between our store here and in Kansas City, so we've got a lot of excess we've got to store."

After Tuesday, the St. John location will resume regular business hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Crews plan to have the new store constructed by July 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679070318459.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNo worries. Golden Belt Beef's close on Monday and Tuesday, March 20-21, is just a temporary one. In the long run, the closure will benefit the company and customers as a new, bigger store is constructed at the current location of 1105 N. U.S. Highway 281 in St. John. Tessa Lickiss with Golden Belt Beef said the store will otherwise remain open during construction."What we have now, honestly, we call it the Little Red Shed," she said. "It's kind of a glorified garden shed. We're going to move that across the driveway on Sunday, then we'll be constructing an actual building that will sit there that is about three times the size of what we have now."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679070340749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Golden Belt Beef operates two stores in St. John and Overland Park. Even with the bigger facility, Lickiss said the plan is to stick to beef-only products, but the store does offer virtually every cut of beef for sale to the public."We have no storage space at the store we're at now, so everything is stored here in our main office and freezers in the basement," she said. "By doing this, we'll be able to have a walk-in freezer to keep more storage on hand out there. We're processing 14 head a week right now between our store here and in Kansas City, so we've got a lot of excess we've got to store."After Tuesday, the St. John location will resume regular business hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Crews plan to have the new store constructed by July 4.

Golden Belt Beef building bigger store in St. John

3/17 BOOKED: Ryan Aumiller on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Kyle Riggs on Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Garrett Buckbee on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $310,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Eric Schneider on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Treala Merrill on Curry County Sheriff's Office warrant, on hold for outside agency.

BOOKED: Alberto Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Matthew Jones on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, and Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Elias Vasquez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Joshua Mathern on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Virginia Lang on two Barton County District Court warrants, and warrants from Rice and Stafford Counties, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Flynt Hendricks on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Robert Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Jason Levingston on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Tyler Witten on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Alberto Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Elias Vasquez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Matthew Jones on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Joshua Mathern on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

3/18 BOOKED: Christian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Joshua Hensley on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hour OR.

BOOKED: Mark Ray on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Alexandro Serna on Great Bend Municipal Court case for assault, bond set at $250 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Christian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Joshua Hensley on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic battery, on 18-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Clayton Hines on three Barton County warrants, after time served.

RELEASED: Alexandro Serna on Great Bend Municipal Court case for assault, after posting $250 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

3/19 BOOKED: Olivia Petrik on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

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

RELEASED: Ryan Aumiller on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

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

RELEASED: Flynt Hendricks on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Kyle Riggs on two Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.

RELEASED: Daylan Sherwood on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Virginia Lang on four warrants, after time served.

RELEASED: Jason Levingston on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Robert Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/17 BOOKED: Ryan Aumiller on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Kyle Riggs on Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Garrett Buckbee on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $310,000 C/S.BOOKED: Eric Schneider on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Treala Merrill on Curry County Sheriff's Office warrant, on hold for outside agency.BOOKED: Alberto Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Matthew Jones on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, and Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Elias Vasquez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Joshua Mathern on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Virginia Lang on two Barton County District Court warrants, and warrants from Rice and Stafford Counties, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Flynt Hendricks on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Robert Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Jason Levingston on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Tyler Witten on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Alberto Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Elias Vasquez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Matthew Jones on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Joshua Mathern on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.3/18 BOOKED: Christian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Joshua Hensley on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hour OR.BOOKED: Mark Ray on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Alexandro Serna on Great Bend Municipal Court case for assault, bond set at $250 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Christian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Joshua Hensley on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic battery, on 18-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Clayton Hines on three Barton County warrants, after time served.RELEASED: Alexandro Serna on Great Bend Municipal Court case for assault, after posting $250 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.3/19 BOOKED: Olivia Petrik on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Christopher Scheck on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Ryan Aumiller on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Olivia Petrik on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Flynt Hendricks on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Kyle Riggs on two Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.RELEASED: Daylan Sherwood on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Virginia Lang on four warrants, after time served.RELEASED: Jason Levingston on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Robert Williams on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (3/17 - 3/19)

At last week’s Barton Community College Board of Trustees study session,
Chief Communications Officer Maggie Harris gave board members an outline of the
college’s marketing plan. The presentation highlighted how Barton is targeting
potential students with advertising and how the college is promoting their
events and what they have to offer. Harris noted digital media is increasing as
a platform to advertise on with applications like Facebook, YouTube and even
TikTok. 
Trustee Don Learned questioned the college’s use of TikTok, a social media, short-form
video hosting service owned by a Chinese company. TikTok has received criticism
over user privacy. The majority of the states have banned the application on
government-issued devices. Harris said Barton will continue to monitor
regulations regarding the usage of the app. "All of our competitors and peers are using it," said Harris. "We're just reaching our students where they're at. That is our goal...to find where they are and to reach them. I know there is a lot of controversy with it, and we're keeping track of all of those conversations." 
Learned was concerned from stories in the news regarding TikTok’s connections
to the Chinese government. While United States agencies continue to investigate the
security and use of TikTok, Barton Trustee Chairman Mike Johnson said the app is
still effective in marketing the college’s message to the younger population. "I think we all know of the stories that are in the news daily," said Johnson. "Honestly, I think we're going to see it take care of itself in the next year or two through regulation. Don, I agree with you. I think it's an issue, but I think we can't hamper our recruitment process when everyone else is still doing it." 
Along with digital advertising, Barton diversifies its marketing through
traditional media such as print, television and radio. The communications
department also looks at advertising opportunities through sponsorships and
high school yearbooks and publications.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679065552021.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt last week’s Barton Community College Board of Trustees study session,
Chief Communications Officer Maggie Harris gave board members an outline of the
college’s marketing plan. The presentation highlighted how Barton is targeting
potential students with advertising and how the college is promoting their
events and what they have to offer. Harris noted digital media is increasing as
a platform to advertise on with applications like Facebook, YouTube and even
TikTok. 
Trustee Don Learned questioned the college’s use of TikTok, a social media, short-form
video hosting service owned by a Chinese company. TikTok has received criticism
over user privacy. The majority of the states have banned the application on
government-issued devices. Harris said Barton will continue to monitor
regulations regarding the usage of the app. "All of our competitors and peers are using it," said Harris. "We're just reaching our students where they're at. That is our goal...to find where they are and to reach them. I know there is a lot of controversy with it, and we're keeping track of all of those conversations." 
Learned was concerned from stories in the news regarding TikTok’s connections
to the Chinese government. While United States agencies continue to investigate the
security and use of TikTok, Barton Trustee Chairman Mike Johnson said the app is
still effective in marketing the college’s message to the younger population. "I think we all know of the stories that are in the news daily," said Johnson. "Honestly, I think we're going to see it take care of itself in the next year or two through regulation. Don, I agree with you. I think it's an issue, but I think we can't hamper our recruitment process when everyone else is still doing it." 
Along with digital advertising, Barton diversifies its marketing through
traditional media such as print, television and radio. The communications
department also looks at advertising opportunities through sponsorships and
high school yearbooks and publications.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Trustee questions college’s use of TikTok advertising

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 22 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph.

Tonight A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 24 to 29 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 25 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. West-northwest wind around 10 mph becoming east southeast after midnight.

Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming south 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 59.

Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32.

Friday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 62.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 55. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 22 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph.Tonight A 20-percent chance of showers after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 24 to 29 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a south wind 16 to 25 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. West-northwest wind around 10 mph becoming east southeast after midnight.Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming south 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 59.Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32.Friday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 62.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 55. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's Weather

Great Bend City Council meeting March 20&nbsp; -&nbsp; 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers The council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/. Opening: Pledge of Allegiance A. Consent Agenda

C. Recognition of Visitors and Announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;1. CDBG Close Out &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Faye Trent with Great Plains Development will report.

&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Councilmember Reports

&nbsp; &nbsp;3. Interim Administrator's Update

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585774044357.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Council meeting March 20&nbsp; -&nbsp; 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers The council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/. Opening: Pledge of Allegiance A. Consent AgendaB. Old BusinessC. Recognition of Visitors and Announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.D. New Business&nbsp; &nbsp;1. CDBG Close Out &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Faye Trent with Great Plains Development will report.&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Councilmember Reports&nbsp; &nbsp;3. Interim Administrator's Update&nbsp; &nbsp;4. CVB / Community Coordinator Report&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Abatements&nbsp; &nbsp;6. 15-Minute Parking &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; On Feb. 21, the council was approached regarding the implementation of a 15-minute parking stall in front of the Great Bend Tribune. Council asked to continue the discussion at a later date and asked for the locations of the current 15-minute parking spots in the city. There are nine, 15-minute parking spots identified by city staff. Public Works Director Jason Cauley will report.&nbsp; &nbsp;7. Purchase of New Walking Bridge for Veterans Lake &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The current bridge was installed around 2000. The lumber and the floats are deteriorating. Estimates from EZ Dock for the purchase of the 230' bridge/ramps for $132,055 and an estimate for turnkey installation for $158,555.&nbsp; &nbsp;8. 2023 Pumper / Tanker &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The motion will be presented to approve the purchase of a 2023 Pumper / Tanker truck from Deep South Fire Trucks for $436,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;9. Executive Session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion to recess to executive session to discuss personnel matters concerning non-elected personnel for the preliminary review of applicants for the City Administrator position.&nbsp; &nbsp;10. Executive Session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion to recess into executive session to seek legal advice for pending legal matters, consultation with an attorney for the body which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;11. Executive Session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion to recess into executive session to seek legal advice concerning contract matters, consultation with an attorney for the body which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship.AdjournmentFollowing the close of the meeting, the council will conduct a work session to discuss the lead and copper rule.

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