By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A new fishing dock has been installed at Veterans Lake in Great Bend,
but more work still needs to be done. 
The dock, located on the south side of the lake, is not ADA (Americans with
Disabilities Act) accessible at the moment. 
Great Bend Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said the lake is currently
sitting about two and a half feet below normal water level, and probably four
feet below what the average has been over the last five years. "The water will come back up," said Keeler. "We'll continue to pour sidewalk to keep it ADA accessible. The one at Vet's will have to have a few cutbacks to keep the slope." 
The city is also expecting the arrival of a canoe / kayak launcher to be placed
at Stone Lake, south of town. The launcher, attaches to a dock, and makes
getting into and out of the canoe / kayak easier. If the launcher gets good use at Stone, the city will look into placing one at Vet's. 
Keeler said the launcher was backordered and expects it to arrive next week.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664395567630.jpeg" alt="New fishing dock at Veterans Lake in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>New fishing dock at Veterans Lake in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA new fishing dock has been installed at Veterans Lake in Great Bend,
but more work still needs to be done. 
The dock, located on the south side of the lake, is not ADA (Americans with
Disabilities Act) accessible at the moment. 
Great Bend Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said the lake is currently
sitting about two and a half feet below normal water level, and probably four
feet below what the average has been over the last five years. "The water will come back up," said Keeler. "We'll continue to pour sidewalk to keep it ADA accessible. The one at Vet's will have to have a few cutbacks to keep the slope." 
The city is also expecting the arrival of a canoe / kayak launcher to be placed
at Stone Lake, south of town. The launcher, attaches to a dock, and makes
getting into and out of the canoe / kayak easier. If the launcher gets good use at Stone, the city will look into placing one at Vet's. 
Keeler said the launcher was backordered and expects it to arrive next week.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New fishing dock at Vet’s Lake installed, more work to be done

Today Sunny, with a high near 83. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 58. South southeast wind 16 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85. South southeast wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 81.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 76.

Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 74.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 83. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 58. South southeast wind 16 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85. South southeast wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 82.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.Monday Sunny, with a high near 81.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 76.Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 74.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

RUSSELL — Patricia&nbsp;Davids&nbsp;is an internationally published, award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of 50 inspirational and Amish romance novels, primarily published by Harper Collins’ Harlequin imprint. Born and raised in central Kansas, Patricia combines her faith, Midwest values and quirky humor into emotionally rich, sweet romance stories that deal with contemporary issues. She has sold over 3,000,000 books world-wide since her first novel appeared in stores in 2005. A former NICU nurse, Patricia currently resides on a farm near Abilene, with one spoiled dog named Sugar and her special needs cat called&nbsp;Weeble.&nbsp;

Davids&nbsp;will be in Russell to launch her latest novel, “A Match Made at Christmas” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at Russell Specialty Books and Gifts, 626 N Main Street in Russell.&nbsp;The novel is the second in her “Matchmakers of Harts Haven” series, which began earlier this year with “The Inn at Harts Haven.” Both books, along with a selection of her other novels, will be available at the event.

Following her book launch,&nbsp;Davids&nbsp;will address the Russell Writer’s Group, which meets monthly at the bookstore. This meeting is free and open to any published or aspiring author. For information or to reserve a copy of her new novel, contact Linda Crowder at Russell Specialty Books and Gifts, 785-445-8353.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664303963959.jpeg" alt="Davids" />
 <figcaption>Davids</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRUSSELL — Patricia&nbsp;Davids&nbsp;is an internationally published, award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of 50 inspirational and Amish romance novels, primarily published by Harper Collins’ Harlequin imprint. Born and raised in central Kansas, Patricia combines her faith, Midwest values and quirky humor into emotionally rich, sweet romance stories that deal with contemporary issues. She has sold over 3,000,000 books world-wide since her first novel appeared in stores in 2005. A former NICU nurse, Patricia currently resides on a farm near Abilene, with one spoiled dog named Sugar and her special needs cat called&nbsp;Weeble.&nbsp;Davids&nbsp;will be in Russell to launch her latest novel, “A Match Made at Christmas” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at Russell Specialty Books and Gifts, 626 N Main Street in Russell.&nbsp;The novel is the second in her “Matchmakers of Harts Haven” series, which began earlier this year with “The Inn at Harts Haven.” Both books, along with a selection of her other novels, will be available at the event.Following her book launch,&nbsp;Davids&nbsp;will address the Russell Writer’s Group, which meets monthly at the bookstore. This meeting is free and open to any published or aspiring author. For information or to reserve a copy of her new novel, contact Linda Crowder at Russell Specialty Books and Gifts, 785-445-8353.

Best-selling romance author to visit Russell

Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services

Who can resist the fun and excitement of a quality silent auction, especially when there are dozens of deals to be had? If you are interested in a fun opportunity to purchase quality items at well under market-value prices, then come by Rosewood Rodeo this Saturday. The 18th Annual Rodeo is held at Great Bend Expo III Arena, located at the Barton County Fairgrounds, two miles west on 10th and Patton Road.

In conjunction with Rosewood Rodeo’s Grand Entry, the Rosewood Silent Auction will begin at 10 a.m. Then bids will be accepted throughout the day until the Auction closes at 3 p.m. Winning bidders will be contacted following the silent auction, so they don’t have to be present to win.

During the auction, there are more than 70 items to bid on, ranging in retail value from $10 to more than $200. These items are all new products and most likely will sell for under their retail value.

The items were donated by community businesses and individuals as a fundraiser to Rosewood Roots &amp; Wings Foundation. Auction items include a wide variety of items like an acoustic guitar with accessories, a Myra Bags leather purse, a CreekKooler Cooler, a Stow and Go Fire Pit, multiple gift baskets, cards and certificates. For a preview, bidders can access photos of the auction items at https://www.flickr.com/photos/rosewood_services/albums/72177720302309277.

Rosewood’s non-profit Roots &amp; Wings Foundation provides unmet medical and therapeutic needs, legal assistance, along with educational opportunities to people in need who have developmental disabilities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664371105291.jpeg" alt="Attendees check on the many selections of quality silent auction items up for bidding at a previous Rosewood Rodeo. There are more than 70 auction items to bid on at this year’s Rosewood Rodeo. The silent auction annually provides a fun opportunity to purchase quality items at well under market value. Proceeds from the sale of the items, which are donated by community businesses, go directly to Rosewood Roots and Wings Foundation, committed to helping to fund endeavors for people with developmental disabilities." />
 <figcaption>Attendees check on the many selections of quality silent auction items up for bidding at a previous Rosewood Rodeo. There are more than 70 auction items to bid on at this year’s Rosewood Rodeo. The silent auction annually provides a fun opportunity to purchase quality items at well under market value. Proceeds from the sale of the items, which are donated by community businesses, go directly to Rosewood Roots and Wings Foundation, committed to helping to fund endeavors for people with developmental disabilities.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood ServicesWho can resist the fun and excitement of a quality silent auction, especially when there are dozens of deals to be had? If you are interested in a fun opportunity to purchase quality items at well under market-value prices, then come by Rosewood Rodeo this Saturday. The 18th Annual Rodeo is held at Great Bend Expo III Arena, located at the Barton County Fairgrounds, two miles west on 10th and Patton Road.In conjunction with Rosewood Rodeo’s Grand Entry, the Rosewood Silent Auction will begin at 10 a.m. Then bids will be accepted throughout the day until the Auction closes at 3 p.m. Winning bidders will be contacted following the silent auction, so they don’t have to be present to win.During the auction, there are more than 70 items to bid on, ranging in retail value from $10 to more than $200. These items are all new products and most likely will sell for under their retail value.The items were donated by community businesses and individuals as a fundraiser to Rosewood Roots &amp; Wings Foundation. Auction items include a wide variety of items like an acoustic guitar with accessories, a Myra Bags leather purse, a CreekKooler Cooler, a Stow and Go Fire Pit, multiple gift baskets, cards and certificates. For a preview, bidders can access photos of the auction items at https://www.flickr.com/photos/rosewood_services/albums/72177720302309277.Rosewood’s non-profit Roots &amp; Wings Foundation provides unmet medical and therapeutic needs, legal assistance, along with educational opportunities to people in need who have developmental disabilities.

Silent auction deals available Saturday at Rosewood Rodeo

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce After Hours with ﻿Nex-Tech Wireless is Thursday, Sept. 29 from 5 - 7 p.m. at 2827 10th Street.

Enjoy food and beverages exclusively from Kansas (like Dry Lake Brewing beer), hear about their Nex-Tech Wireless' promotions, learn how to get a FREE Apple Watch and register to win door prizes including Bluetooth earbuds and a speaker.

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=780009&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814695&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fevents%2F635674674659141&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=9eea59f6004e231483969a4e2a3ba13262aec03f9998cc1b466869f64d7bd96d" target="_blank">Facebook Event</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664288222860.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Chamber of Commerce After Hours with ﻿Nex-Tech Wireless is Thursday, Sept. 29 from 5 - 7 p.m. at 2827 10th Street.Enjoy food and beverages exclusively from Kansas (like Dry Lake Brewing beer), hear about their Nex-Tech Wireless' promotions, learn how to get a FREE Apple Watch and register to win door prizes including Bluetooth earbuds and a speaker.<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=780009&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814695&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fevents%2F635674674659141&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=9eea59f6004e231483969a4e2a3ba13262aec03f9998cc1b466869f64d7bd96d" target="_blank">Facebook Event</a>

Great Bend Chamber After Hours event Thursday

Great Bend's .15% sales tax increase designated for “quality of life” projects that
was approved last November is expected to generate $567,000 in 2023. A 10-year
capital improvement plan was organized by a committee to outline projects to
tackle. 
In 2023, Great Bend has proposed allocating $10,000 from the tax revenue to
make improvements to the dog park at Veterans Memorial Park. 
City Administrator Kendal Francis said the dog park is well used and there has
been talk of creating separation for small dogs and large dogs. 
"This money would be used to add fencing," said Francis. "This would allow them to cohabitate and protect the smaller dogs from the larger ones." 
Francis and the city council discussed the possibility of extending the fence
for a separate section or partitioning an existing area.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664308122710.jpeg" alt="Creating separation for small and large dogs at the Great Bend dog park is listed as a "quality of life" project to be handled in 2023." />
 <figcaption>Creating separation for small and large dogs at the Great Bend dog park is listed as a "quality of life" project to be handled in 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGreat Bend's .15% sales tax increase designated for “quality of life” projects that
was approved last November is expected to generate $567,000 in 2023. A 10-year
capital improvement plan was organized by a committee to outline projects to
tackle. 
In 2023, Great Bend has proposed allocating $10,000 from the tax revenue to
make improvements to the dog park at Veterans Memorial Park. 
City Administrator Kendal Francis said the dog park is well used and there has
been talk of creating separation for small dogs and large dogs. 
"This money would be used to add fencing," said Francis. "This would allow them to cohabitate and protect the smaller dogs from the larger ones." 
Francis and the city council discussed the possibility of extending the fence
for a separate section or partitioning an existing area.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend looking into separating large and small dogs at dog park

On Tuesday, Sept. 27, at about 5:15 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to 3322 Railroad Avenue in reference to a reported disturbance. Individuals at the scene reported a female had been struck by a vehicle and there had also been a stabbing.

Upon arrival, deputies located the suspect vehicle as it was attempting to flee the scene. The driver was taken into custody. 

Witnesses at the scene stated the driver of the vehicle, identified as Justin Merritt, age 42 of Hays, accelerated toward the victim several times, at one point striking her causing the victim to go over the hood of the vehicle. Further investigation indicated the suspect had several self-inflicted lacerations to an arm. It appears that Merritt and the female victim had been involved in a domestic dispute.

Great Bend Fire Department EMS service was called to the location to examine Merritt. After medical treatment, Merritt was transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. He was booked on charges of aggravated battery and is being held in lieu of a $40,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664395302809.jpeg" alt="Justin Merritt" />
 <figcaption>Justin Merritt</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Sept. 27, at about 5:15 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to 3322 Railroad Avenue in reference to a reported disturbance. Individuals at the scene reported a female had been struck by a vehicle and there had also been a stabbing.Upon arrival, deputies located the suspect vehicle as it was attempting to flee the scene. The driver was taken into custody. Witnesses at the scene stated the driver of the vehicle, identified as Justin Merritt, age 42 of Hays, accelerated toward the victim several times, at one point striking her causing the victim to go over the hood of the vehicle. Further investigation indicated the suspect had several self-inflicted lacerations to an arm. It appears that Merritt and the female victim had been involved in a domestic dispute.Great Bend Fire Department EMS service was called to the location to examine Merritt. After medical treatment, Merritt was transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. He was booked on charges of aggravated battery and is being held in lieu of a $40,000 bond.

Woman struck by vehicle in Great Bend domestic dispute

News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 27 John P. Tretbar&nbsp;

Investigations are underway after the death of a Kansas man in an oilfield explosion in North Dakota.&nbsp; According to his obituary, Oscar Gilberto Gandara, 37, of Liberal, Kansas, died September 15 from injuries he suffered in an explosion and fire at a drilling site. The Web site Inforum.com obtained an accident report from the local Sheriff in which a witness described a "lack of all safety procedures." The witness said fumes were visible all over the site. Gandara was one of three men injured in the blast west of Minot, North Dakota on September 2. The operator Chord Energy says it is cooperating with a government investigation, and is conducting one of its own. Crude prices at CHS in McPherson dropped nearly five dollars Friday (9/23). Kansas Common started the week at $69 a barrel, eight dollars lower than at the first of the month. The benchmark Nymex crude contract settled Friday below $80 a barrel for the first time since January. Prices on Tuesday were over $78 a barrel in New York and over $85 in London. Until last week, gasoline pump prices had gone down every day since June, when rising prices peaked just over $5 a gallon nationwide. But prices have now gone up five days in a row. The auto club AAA now says the average pump price across the U.S. Tuesday was $3.74 per gallon, a nickel higher than a week ago. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes reached 764 active rigs, an increase of three oil rigs. The number or rigs drilling for natural gas was down two. The count in New Mexico was up three rigs, Texas was down two and Oklahoma was up one. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged from last week, with 27 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, and 32 in Western Kansas. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County, and operators were about to spud three more in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was tracking 489 wells in various stages of drilling or completion, up more than 50% from the tally a year ago. Operators completed 35 new wells across the state last week. Ten were in eastern Kansas and 25 west of Wichita including two in Ellis County and one in Russell County. That's 1,186 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 630 by this time last year. &nbsp; Regulators in the Sunflower State approved 22 new drilling permits last week, with eight in eastern Kansas and 14 west of Wichita, including three new drilling locations in Ellis County. The tally so far this year is 1,194 new drilling permits, compared to 763 a year ago. U.S. crude inventories increased by 1.1 million barrels to 430.8 million barrels as of September 16th. That's about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says gasoline stockpiles rose by 1.6 million barrels and are about five percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said crude imports last week averaged 6.9 million barrels per day, up 1.2 million barrels per day from the week before. The four week average is up 4.5% from last year. U.S. operators produced 12.13 million barrels per day during the week through September 16th, marking a slight dip from the week before but more than 1.5 million barrels per day higher than a year ago. Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. last week was up 901 tanker carloads from the week before, but lags behind the tally a year ago by just over two percent. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,252 tankers hauling petroleum and petroleum products in the week through September 17th. Canadian traffic is down nearly two percent week over week, after dropping by more than six hundred tanker carloads. The Department of Energy will offer more crude for sale from strategic reserves ahead of plans by the European Union to ban most Russian oil in December.&nbsp; The U.S. will offer 10 million barrels for supply in November. DOE’s 180-million barrel release was originally scheduled over a six-month period starting in May. To date, 155 million barrels of crude oil have changed hands. Of the 10 million barrels slated for November delivery, one million are being marked for possible export. Operators are increasingly turning their attention to natural gas, thanks to higher prices, better export opportunities, and government edicts. U.S. energy companies are ramping up their search for natural gas at the fastest pace since 1992. Reporting by the Houston Chronicle and Bloomberg shows high prices and renewed attention to flaring are driving the switch. A commodity that not too long ago was flared off at the well head is now fetching six times its equivalent in oil in Europe. So far this year, U.S. natural gas prices have more than doubled and gas drilling here has soared more than 50%. Some huge producers, including Callon Petroleum, Continental Resources and Pioneer Natural Resources have switched more than 10% of their overall output to gas from oil. Shippers are paying a lot more to ship crude oil a lot farther, thanks to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The largest of the crude supertankers will now cost you more than $50-thousand a day, the highest rate since June of 2020.&nbsp; Bloomberg reports Europe’s oil refiners are pulling more crude from farther away, and that is boosting demand for the world’s biggest oil tankers. China is ramping up crude-oil imports from both Russia and Saudi Arabia, even as it's total imports drop. Reuters reports Russian shipments to China increased 28% last month, to 1.96 million barrels per day. Saudi deliveries rose five percent to nearly two million. Earlier this year, Russia replaced Saudi Arabia as China’s largest supplier of crude but the Saudi's retook that honor in August. China's total crude imports fell more than nine percent from a year earlier to about 9.5 million barrels per day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 27 John P. Tretbar&nbsp;Investigations are underway after the death of a Kansas man in an oilfield explosion in North Dakota.&nbsp; According to his obituary, Oscar Gilberto Gandara, 37, of Liberal, Kansas, died September 15 from injuries he suffered in an explosion and fire at a drilling site. The Web site Inforum.com obtained an accident report from the local Sheriff in which a witness described a "lack of all safety procedures." The witness said fumes were visible all over the site. Gandara was one of three men injured in the blast west of Minot, North Dakota on September 2. The operator Chord Energy says it is cooperating with a government investigation, and is conducting one of its own. Crude prices at CHS in McPherson dropped nearly five dollars Friday (9/23). Kansas Common started the week at $69 a barrel, eight dollars lower than at the first of the month. The benchmark Nymex crude contract settled Friday below $80 a barrel for the first time since January. Prices on Tuesday were over $78 a barrel in New York and over $85 in London. Until last week, gasoline pump prices had gone down every day since June, when rising prices peaked just over $5 a gallon nationwide. But prices have now gone up five days in a row. The auto club AAA now says the average pump price across the U.S. Tuesday was $3.74 per gallon, a nickel higher than a week ago. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes reached 764 active rigs, an increase of three oil rigs. The number or rigs drilling for natural gas was down two. The count in New Mexico was up three rigs, Texas was down two and Oklahoma was up one. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged from last week, with 27 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, and 32 in Western Kansas. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County, and operators were about to spud three more in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was tracking 489 wells in various stages of drilling or completion, up more than 50% from the tally a year ago. Operators completed 35 new wells across the state last week. Ten were in eastern Kansas and 25 west of Wichita including two in Ellis County and one in Russell County. That's 1,186 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 630 by this time last year. &nbsp; Regulators in the Sunflower State approved 22 new drilling permits last week, with eight in eastern Kansas and 14 west of Wichita, including three new drilling locations in Ellis County. The tally so far this year is 1,194 new drilling permits, compared to 763 a year ago. U.S. crude inventories increased by 1.1 million barrels to 430.8 million barrels as of September 16th. That's about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says gasoline stockpiles rose by 1.6 million barrels and are about five percent below the five-year seasonal average. EIA said crude imports last week averaged 6.9 million barrels per day, up 1.2 million barrels per day from the week before. The four week average is up 4.5% from last year. U.S. operators produced 12.13 million barrels per day during the week through September 16th, marking a slight dip from the week before but more than 1.5 million barrels per day higher than a year ago. Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. last week was up 901 tanker carloads from the week before, but lags behind the tally a year ago by just over two percent. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,252 tankers hauling petroleum and petroleum products in the week through September 17th. Canadian traffic is down nearly two percent week over week, after dropping by more than six hundred tanker carloads. The Department of Energy will offer more crude for sale from strategic reserves ahead of plans by the European Union to ban most Russian oil in December.&nbsp; The U.S. will offer 10 million barrels for supply in November. DOE’s 180-million barrel release was originally scheduled over a six-month period starting in May. To date, 155 million barrels of crude oil have changed hands. Of the 10 million barrels slated for November delivery, one million are being marked for possible export. Operators are increasingly turning their attention to natural gas, thanks to higher prices, better export opportunities, and government edicts. U.S. energy companies are ramping up their search for natural gas at the fastest pace since 1992. Reporting by the Houston Chronicle and Bloomberg shows high prices and renewed attention to flaring are driving the switch. A commodity that not too long ago was flared off at the well head is now fetching six times its equivalent in oil in Europe. So far this year, U.S. natural gas prices have more than doubled and gas drilling here has soared more than 50%. Some huge producers, including Callon Petroleum, Continental Resources and Pioneer Natural Resources have switched more than 10% of their overall output to gas from oil. Shippers are paying a lot more to ship crude oil a lot farther, thanks to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The largest of the crude supertankers will now cost you more than $50-thousand a day, the highest rate since June of 2020.&nbsp; Bloomberg reports Europe’s oil refiners are pulling more crude from farther away, and that is boosting demand for the world’s biggest oil tankers. China is ramping up crude-oil imports from both Russia and Saudi Arabia, even as it's total imports drop. Reuters reports Russian shipments to China increased 28% last month, to 1.96 million barrels per day. Saudi deliveries rose five percent to nearly two million. Earlier this year, Russia replaced Saudi Arabia as China’s largest supplier of crude but the Saudi's retook that honor in August. China's total crude imports fell more than nine percent from a year earlier to about 9.5 million barrels per day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Oil prices dropping, gas prices rising

Action from the Wednesday, September 28, 2022, Barton County Commission agenda meeting:

APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS:   -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of September 14, 2022, and ending September 28, 2022. 

 OLD BUSINESS - RESOLUTION 2022-22:  A Resolution Concerning the Involvement of Sitting Barton County Commissioners on Area Boards and Committees:  -This item was tabled.

NEW BUSINESS - PROCLAMATION 2022-15: National 4-H Week: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Michelle Beran, Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County, was joined by area youth in presenting the proposed Proclamation. 4-H, as delivered by area Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries. By declaring October 2 – 8, 2022, as National 4-H Week, the Commission encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.

  RESOLUTION 2022-22:  Application for Zoning Amendment for a Described Tract of Land:  -Judy Goreham, Environmental Manager, provided details.  The Barton County Planning Commission received a Zoning Amendment Application from the Alan and Kathleen Hoffman Revocable Trust for an 0.8 acre +/- tract of land to be rezoned.  Being part of a larger tract located in the NE/4, Section 20, Township 17 South, Range 13 West, the ground is currently classified as Agricultural.  The application calls for the tract to be rezoned to Light Manufacturing Service Commercial District so that a shop can be built for V’s Workshop.  With the Resolution, the business will be relocated to this location where the family is also building a new home. 

SOLID WASTE: Repair of the Caterpillar 615C II Scraper: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, provided details. The Barton County Landfill operates a Caterpillar 615C II Scraper that is used to move dirt to various places on site for essential tasks such as waste cover and building roads, berms and evaporation ponds. In June, the crank shaft dampner/pulley came off. Foley Equipment made the necessary repairs. In conjunction with the crank shaft repair, the gasket on the hydraulic tank was replaced. The Commission approved Foley Equipment making such needed repairs at $30,016.33.

SOLID WASTE: Hoisington Gun Club Improvement Project at Cheyenne Bottoms: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Hamby provided details. The Hoisington Gun Club is developing a project at Cheyenne Bottoms. As a part of the project, the club has hired Prosser Dirt to excavate. The Barton County Landfill has agreed to accept dirt from the excavation at the rate of $120.00 per load. Dirt is needed at the Landfill to provide intermediate/final cover and for other construction projects. Continuation of the project is approved. D

ISTRICT CORONER:  Appointment of Deputy Coroner:  -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details.  Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed as District Coroner effective November 1, 2020.   The Commission approved Dr. Logan Shetlar being appointed as a Deputy District Coroner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Action from the Wednesday, September 28, 2022, Barton County Commission agenda meeting:APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of September 14, 2022, and ending September 28, 2022. OLD BUSINESS - RESOLUTION 2022-22: A Resolution Concerning the Involvement of Sitting Barton County Commissioners on Area Boards and Committees: -This item was tabled.NEW BUSINESS - PROCLAMATION 2022-15: National 4-H Week: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Michelle Beran, Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County, was joined by area youth in presenting the proposed Proclamation. 4-H, as delivered by area Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries. By declaring October 2 – 8, 2022, as National 4-H Week, the Commission encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime. RESOLUTION 2022-22: Application for Zoning Amendment for a Described Tract of Land: -Judy Goreham, Environmental Manager, provided details. The Barton County Planning Commission received a Zoning Amendment Application from the Alan and Kathleen Hoffman Revocable Trust for an 0.8 acre +/- tract of land to be rezoned. Being part of a larger tract located in the NE/4, Section 20, Township 17 South, Range 13 West, the ground is currently classified as Agricultural. The application calls for the tract to be rezoned to Light Manufacturing Service Commercial District so that a shop can be built for V’s Workshop. With the Resolution, the business will be relocated to this location where the family is also building a new home. SOLID WASTE: Repair of the Caterpillar 615C II Scraper: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, provided details. The Barton County Landfill operates a Caterpillar 615C II Scraper that is used to move dirt to various places on site for essential tasks such as waste cover and building roads, berms and evaporation ponds. In June, the crank shaft dampner/pulley came off. Foley Equipment made the necessary repairs. In conjunction with the crank shaft repair, the gasket on the hydraulic tank was replaced. The Commission approved Foley Equipment making such needed repairs at $30,016.33. SOLID WASTE: Hoisington Gun Club Improvement Project at Cheyenne Bottoms: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Hamby provided details. The Hoisington Gun Club is developing a project at Cheyenne Bottoms. As a part of the project, the club has hired Prosser Dirt to excavate. The Barton County Landfill has agreed to accept dirt from the excavation at the rate of $120.00 per load. Dirt is needed at the Landfill to provide intermediate/final cover and for other construction projects. Continuation of the project is approved. DISTRICT CORONER: Appointment of Deputy Coroner: -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed as District Coroner effective November 1, 2020. The Commission approved Dr. Logan Shetlar being appointed as a Deputy District Coroner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Action from the Barton County Commission meeting (9/28)

September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.

Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.

Finally, step four is to chill leftovers quickly as possibly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.Finally, step four is to chill leftovers quickly as possibly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: National Food Safety Education Month

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The city of Great Bend is looking to improve the area with its Quality of Life projects. Great Bend Kiwanis Club is eyeing a project of its own. The club would like to help with the installation of new playground equipment and a bathroom in the park located just off 281 Bypass between Broadway and Park streets. Great Bend Kiwanis Board Member Suresh Maharjan said kids on the east side of the city also need a safe place to play.

"We picked that park because that side of the city has a lot of kids, and they don't have a nice, safe place to play," he said. "For them to go downtown or to Vets Park, it's a commute. Having the park existing over there, if we could renovate it and make it more kid-friendly and family-friendly, neighborhood kids could utilize the park for good. Also, having the good park and utilizing it, we thought we could increase the vibe in that part of town."

Kiwanis has talked with the city of Great Bend and Great Bend Public Library about a partnership for improvements in the past. The planning is still in its infancy, but Maharjan wants to make sure the club is headed toward action.

"Rather than talking the talk, we're trying to implement more of an action item," he said. "We want to put in a playground, how much does that cost? We want to put in a swing, how much will that cost? We want to put a bathroom in there. How much is it going to cost? We're trying to basically come in with an item and a cost associated with it. Once we have that, then we can present to the city or our committee."

Maharjan estimates the project could cost up to $200,000, and would include new playground equipment, new swings, and a bathroom. Kiwanis has around $32,000 to spend on the project and is looking for help from the city and other contributors. The local club recently applied for a $25,000 Legacy of Play prize. Legacy, a playground equipment manufacturer, awards one Kiwanis club $25,000 each year to be used for playground equipment to enhance a park. 

The Legacy prize is up for a vote that began Sept. 18 and ends Sept. 30. The winner of the prize will be announced on Oct. 13. To vote on the Great Bend playground, <a href="https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/ki-va/entry-details/3/2/57?fbclid=IwAR1irORfleu5qz5jDvGGqbKFimLr79KEDNFvWcyIBzagzB7Fk_KApge6Iko">CLICK HERE</a> and click the heart button at the bottom of the page. To contact Maharjan about a donation, email maharjansb@hotmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664296941087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe city of Great Bend is looking to improve the area with its Quality of Life projects. Great Bend Kiwanis Club is eyeing a project of its own. The club would like to help with the installation of new playground equipment and a bathroom in the park located just off 281 Bypass between Broadway and Park streets. Great Bend Kiwanis Board Member Suresh Maharjan said kids on the east side of the city also need a safe place to play."We picked that park because that side of the city has a lot of kids, and they don't have a nice, safe place to play," he said. "For them to go downtown or to Vets Park, it's a commute. Having the park existing over there, if we could renovate it and make it more kid-friendly and family-friendly, neighborhood kids could utilize the park for good. Also, having the good park and utilizing it, we thought we could increase the vibe in that part of town."Kiwanis has talked with the city of Great Bend and Great Bend Public Library about a partnership for improvements in the past. The planning is still in its infancy, but Maharjan wants to make sure the club is headed toward action."Rather than talking the talk, we're trying to implement more of an action item," he said. "We want to put in a playground, how much does that cost? We want to put in a swing, how much will that cost? We want to put a bathroom in there. How much is it going to cost? We're trying to basically come in with an item and a cost associated with it. Once we have that, then we can present to the city or our committee."Maharjan estimates the project could cost up to $200,000, and would include new playground equipment, new swings, and a bathroom. Kiwanis has around $32,000 to spend on the project and is looking for help from the city and other contributors. The local club recently applied for a $25,000 Legacy of Play prize. Legacy, a playground equipment manufacturer, awards one Kiwanis club $25,000 each year to be used for playground equipment to enhance a park. The Legacy prize is up for a vote that began Sept. 18 and ends Sept. 30. The winner of the prize will be announced on Oct. 13. To vote on the Great Bend playground, <a href="https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/ki-va/entry-details/3/2/57?fbclid=IwAR1irORfleu5qz5jDvGGqbKFimLr79KEDNFvWcyIBzagzB7Fk_KApge6Iko">CLICK HERE</a> and click the heart button at the bottom of the page. To contact Maharjan about a donation, email maharjansb@hotmail.com.

Local Kiwanis looking to improve park on east side of Great Bend

On Sept. 25 at approximately 12:15 p.m., a Great Bend Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 3900 block of 10th Street for an equipment violation. During the traffic stop, K9 Menta was utilized to conduct a free air sniff, where she alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics. 

During a search of the vehicle, officers found methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The driver of the vehicle, identified as 22-year-old Danyan Battaglear,&nbsp;also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Harvey County for distribution of narcotics.

Two passengers in the vehicle, identified as 26-year-old Jason Battaglear, and a 17-year-old juvenile were arrested as well. Danyan Battaglear and Jason Battaglear were transported to the Barton County Jail where they were booked in lieu of bond. The 17-year-old juvenile was booked into the Barton County Jail, and later released to be transported to Reno County juvenile detention in Hutchinson. 

If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120, or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664379595305.jpeg" alt="Danyan Battaglear" />
 <figcaption>Danyan Battaglear</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sept. 25 at approximately 12:15 p.m., a Great Bend Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 3900 block of 10th Street for an equipment violation. During the traffic stop, K9 Menta was utilized to conduct a free air sniff, where she alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics. During a search of the vehicle, officers found methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The driver of the vehicle, identified as 22-year-old Danyan Battaglear,&nbsp;also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Harvey County for distribution of narcotics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664379654332.jpeg" alt="Jason Battaglear" />
 <figcaption>Jason Battaglear</figcaption>
 </figure>Two passengers in the vehicle, identified as 26-year-old Jason Battaglear, and a 17-year-old juvenile were arrested as well. Danyan Battaglear and Jason Battaglear were transported to the Barton County Jail where they were booked in lieu of bond. The 17-year-old juvenile was booked into the Barton County Jail, and later released to be transported to Reno County juvenile detention in Hutchinson. If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120, or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300.

GBPD traffic stop results in three arrests on drug charges

County officials like efficiency. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris offered an example of that to commissioners during Wednesday's meeting. Morris took over the office in December of 2018, opting to file fewer cases since. He was pleased by recent reports that show his office is getting just as many convictions without the hassle of filing more cases.

"In 2018, we filed 584 adult cases, and out of that we obtained 224 adult felony convictions," Morris said. "In 2021, we're still filing 100 hundred fewer cases, and we're getting the exact same number of felony convictions out of it."

Morris said the county attorney's office filed 584 adult criminal cases in 2018, resulting in 224 adult felony convictions. Under Morris, the office filed just 476 cases in 2019, and it filed 474 cases last year with a result of 227 adult felony convictions.

"More importantly, we're actually improving the quality of convictions," said Morris. "We're tripling the number of people who are getting held to a level of accountability. They have to register on the public offense website, so their neighbors and their community members know where they live and where they're at."

Morris spoke of registration for drug, violent, and sex offenses. Virtually all sex offenses and crimes of violence with a deadly weapon require registration on different lists, as do most drug distribution convictions other than those for marijuana.

"We'll call this a class of high-severity level convictions," Morris said, "meaning the legislature said what you did was so bad we want you on a public website." 

In 2016-18, convictions resulted in 15, 14, and 15 new registrations, respectively. That number increased to 39 in Morris' first full year as county attorney, dipped to 36 in the COVID-19 year of 2020, and surged to 53 in 2021. 

Morris said those registrations not only work to inform the public, but also require accountability. Those required to register must update the state on address changes, job changes, and long-term jobs out of the area. Failure to do so may result in new charges.

Commissioner Barb Esfeld voiced concern that the numbers might indicate a lack of success from the local recovery community. Morris and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir agreed that convictions often come before recovery.

"These numbers are not a reflection of recovery," Morris said. "These numbers reflect accountability. The sheriff rounds them up, I process them, and then after this is when we start talking about recovery. In my opinion, anecdotally, most people do not pursue recovery, treatment, or sobriety, until they get caught."

The office is on pace for 35 registrations in 2022, though Morris said that could change due to a lag in the processing of those cases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601910747930.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCounty officials like efficiency. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris offered an example of that to commissioners during Wednesday's meeting. Morris took over the office in December of 2018, opting to file fewer cases since. He was pleased by recent reports that show his office is getting just as many convictions without the hassle of filing more cases."In 2018, we filed 584 adult cases, and out of that we obtained 224 adult felony convictions," Morris said. "In 2021, we're still filing 100 hundred fewer cases, and we're getting the exact same number of felony convictions out of it."Morris said the county attorney's office filed 584 adult criminal cases in 2018, resulting in 224 adult felony convictions. Under Morris, the office filed just 476 cases in 2019, and it filed 474 cases last year with a result of 227 adult felony convictions."More importantly, we're actually improving the quality of convictions," said Morris. "We're tripling the number of people who are getting held to a level of accountability. They have to register on the public offense website, so their neighbors and their community members know where they live and where they're at."Morris spoke of registration for drug, violent, and sex offenses. Virtually all sex offenses and crimes of violence with a deadly weapon require registration on different lists, as do most drug distribution convictions other than those for marijuana."We'll call this a class of high-severity level convictions," Morris said, "meaning the legislature said what you did was so bad we want you on a public website." In 2016-18, convictions resulted in 15, 14, and 15 new registrations, respectively. That number increased to 39 in Morris' first full year as county attorney, dipped to 36 in the COVID-19 year of 2020, and surged to 53 in 2021. Morris said those registrations not only work to inform the public, but also require accountability. Those required to register must update the state on address changes, job changes, and long-term jobs out of the area. Failure to do so may result in new charges.Commissioner Barb Esfeld voiced concern that the numbers might indicate a lack of success from the local recovery community. Morris and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir agreed that convictions often come before recovery."These numbers are not a reflection of recovery," Morris said. "These numbers reflect accountability. The sheriff rounds them up, I process them, and then after this is when we start talking about recovery. In my opinion, anecdotally, most people do not pursue recovery, treatment, or sobriety, until they get caught."The office is on pace for 35 registrations in 2022, though Morris said that could change due to a lag in the processing of those cases.

Barton County attorney to commission: crime registration numbers up

A formal approval of the master plan is expected at an upcoming Great
Bend City Council meeting, but a 10-year capital improvement plan for “quality
of life” projects is taking shape with many ventures expected in the near
future. One of the proposed projects to get started in the next year or two is
the addition of a public shooting range. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said one idea is to expand the police
department’s shooting range on the Great Bend Expo Complex grounds. "I truly don't know all the costs incurred," said Francis. "If it's dirt, we can build a berm. There's also shelters and tables that fit into this. We're just trying to work our way through it." 
The thought is to extend the berm, or embankment, to the north at the shooting
range for the public. Francis said the city has also considered partnering with
a local provider, or business, to expand their services to include a shooting
range. 
In the master plan, Great Bend plans to set aside $34,000 throughout 2023 and
2024 combined for the project.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664311883769.jpeg" alt="Great Bend's "quality of life" projects include the creation of a public shooting range. One idea is to extend the police department's shooting range, pictured above, at the Great Bend Expo Complex grounds." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend's "quality of life" projects include the creation of a public shooting range. One idea is to extend the police department's shooting range, pictured above, at the Great Bend Expo Complex grounds.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA formal approval of the master plan is expected at an upcoming Great
Bend City Council meeting, but a 10-year capital improvement plan for “quality
of life” projects is taking shape with many ventures expected in the near
future. One of the proposed projects to get started in the next year or two is
the addition of a public shooting range. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said one idea is to expand the police
department’s shooting range on the Great Bend Expo Complex grounds. "I truly don't know all the costs incurred," said Francis. "If it's dirt, we can build a berm. There's also shelters and tables that fit into this. We're just trying to work our way through it." 
The thought is to extend the berm, or embankment, to the north at the shooting
range for the public. Francis said the city has also considered partnering with
a local provider, or business, to expand their services to include a shooting
range. 
In the master plan, Great Bend plans to set aside $34,000 throughout 2023 and
2024 combined for the project.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend reveals plans for a public shooting range

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (9/27) 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 4:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 30 SE 10 Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 7:21 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 320 NE 30 Road. 
 
At 7:52 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at Ave. V &amp; CR 380 in Albert. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:46 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 2100 block of NE 90 Avenue
in Odin. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:09 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1501 NE 150 Avenue in Claflin. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:47 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 60 Avenue &amp; NE 140
Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 12:13 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 573 NW 110 Avenue A in Albert. 
 
Fire 
 
At 1:40 p.m. a fire was reported at 767 N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:26 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 30
Road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (9/27) 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 4:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 30 SE 10 Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 7:21 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 320 NE 30 Road. 
 
At 7:52 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at Ave. V &amp; CR 380 in Albert. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:46 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 2100 block of NE 90 Avenue
in Odin. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:09 a.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1501 NE 150 Avenue in Claflin. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:47 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 60 Avenue &amp; NE 140
Road. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 12:13 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 573 NW 110 Avenue A in Albert. 
 
Fire 
 
At 1:40 p.m. a fire was reported at 767 N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:26 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NE 30
Road.

Cop Shop (9/27)

9/27 BOOKED: Sean Flagg on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, both bonds set at $10,000 C/S; and Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $500 cash only.

BOOKED: Ethan Kilbourn on four Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, bonds totaling $17,500 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Derek Muller on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Use of Weapons, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Roy Hill on Barton County District Court warrant on hold for court, back to KDOC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/27 BOOKED: Sean Flagg on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, both bonds set at $10,000 C/S; and Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $500 cash only.BOOKED: Ethan Kilbourn on four Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, bonds totaling $17,500 C/S.BOOKED: Garret Mallow on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Derek Muller on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Use of Weapons, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Roy Hill on Barton County District Court warrant on hold for court, back to KDOC.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (9/27)

PAWNEE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Kansas were notified this week that John Freeman Colt entered a Guilty plea in the Federal District Court of Utah to a single count of Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. His sentencing in Federal Court is currently scheduled for October 27, according to a statement from Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

On June 30, 2021, Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program located on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Following a nationwide manhunt, he was arrested in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021.

He is currently charged under Kansas Law with Aggravated Escape from Custody, a severity level 8 non-person felony. Additionally, he is still subject to his civil commitment to the Kansas Sexual Predator Treatment Program. Once he completes his sentence on the federal conviction, arrangements will be made for Colt’s extradition back to Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="Colt-photo Wayne County Utah" />
 <figcaption>Colt-photo Wayne County Utah</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Kansas were notified this week that John Freeman Colt entered a Guilty plea in the Federal District Court of Utah to a single count of Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. His sentencing in Federal Court is currently scheduled for October 27, according to a statement from Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="Colt during his escape from the Larned State Hospital-photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Colt during his escape from the Larned State Hospital-photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 30, 2021, Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program located on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Following a nationwide manhunt, he was arrested in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021.He is currently charged under Kansas Law with Aggravated Escape from Custody, a severity level 8 non-person felony. Additionally, he is still subject to his civil commitment to the Kansas Sexual Predator Treatment Program. Once he completes his sentence on the federal conviction, arrangements will be made for Colt’s extradition back to Kansas.

Escapee from Larned sex offender program enters plea to federal charges

Exercise breeding exercise. That's one of the primary goals for the Flatlander Half Marathon and 5K runs coming to Great Bend on Oct. 15. Back for a seventh year, the event not only promotes physical well-being, but also raises money for Be Well Barton County. 

"The initial intent of the race was just to have a race for Great Bend," said Brandon Steinert with the Flatlander Planning Committee. "We wanted Great Bend to have a half-marathon, give people something to work toward a fitness goal because we believe in healthy individuals."

As it turns out, the race has been a success. Proceeds from the event are used to promote other activities around the area via Be Well Barton County. The organization has helped install bike racks in each community in the county, replaced the shade structure at Brit Spaugh Park, and promotes wellness and activity with events like the Friday Night Bike Ride.

The Flatlander will feature a 13.1-mile half marathon and a 5K run. Walkers are welcome in both events as wellness, not winning, is the goal for most.

"It's a very supportive atmosphere, particularly for the half marathon," Steinert said. "There are only a few people who show up to try to win. Most people are out there trying to beat their own personal times, and everybody is very supportive of one another and encouraging. The sense of competition does not outshine the mutual support everyone has for one another chasing their fitness goals."

The event has grown over the past several years, drawing approximately 100 runners from around the area and state, and even a few from out of state. The 10K race has been eliminated from the 2022 event due to low interest in that particular distance.

"The big benefit of our course is that's flat," said Steinert, "so people who are wanting to come out and set a personal record to set their personal time for a half-marathon can do so on our course a little easier because we don't have very many hills."

Steinert is one of six on the Flatlander Planning Committee. He said everyone works together with a common goal of promoting activity. "Everybody pitches in and everybody cares about the mission of this race," he said. "Nobody is making any money off of it. We just give our time and take pride in what we can create, the money we can raise, and the things it can do."

Registration for the race begins at $45. Each participant will receive a T-shirt, a swag bag of goodies from event sponsors, and a complimentary breakfast. The start and finish of each run will be near Jack Kilby Square.

<a href="https://www.unation.com/event/flatlander-half-marathon-flatlander-10k-10986653">CLICK HERE</a> for more information or to register for the Flatlander races.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664304148846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostExercise breeding exercise. That's one of the primary goals for the Flatlander Half Marathon and 5K runs coming to Great Bend on Oct. 15. Back for a seventh year, the event not only promotes physical well-being, but also raises money for Be Well Barton County. "The initial intent of the race was just to have a race for Great Bend," said Brandon Steinert with the Flatlander Planning Committee. "We wanted Great Bend to have a half-marathon, give people something to work toward a fitness goal because we believe in healthy individuals."As it turns out, the race has been a success. Proceeds from the event are used to promote other activities around the area via Be Well Barton County. The organization has helped install bike racks in each community in the county, replaced the shade structure at Brit Spaugh Park, and promotes wellness and activity with events like the Friday Night Bike Ride.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664304006766.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Flatlander will feature a 13.1-mile half marathon and a 5K run. Walkers are welcome in both events as wellness, not winning, is the goal for most."It's a very supportive atmosphere, particularly for the half marathon," Steinert said. "There are only a few people who show up to try to win. Most people are out there trying to beat their own personal times, and everybody is very supportive of one another and encouraging. The sense of competition does not outshine the mutual support everyone has for one another chasing their fitness goals."The event has grown over the past several years, drawing approximately 100 runners from around the area and state, and even a few from out of state. The 10K race has been eliminated from the 2022 event due to low interest in that particular distance."The big benefit of our course is that's flat," said Steinert, "so people who are wanting to come out and set a personal record to set their personal time for a half-marathon can do so on our course a little easier because we don't have very many hills."Steinert is one of six on the Flatlander Planning Committee. He said everyone works together with a common goal of promoting activity. "Everybody pitches in and everybody cares about the mission of this race," he said. "Nobody is making any money off of it. We just give our time and take pride in what we can create, the money we can raise, and the things it can do."Registration for the race begins at $45. Each participant will receive a T-shirt, a swag bag of goodies from event sponsors, and a complimentary breakfast. The start and finish of each run will be near Jack Kilby Square.<a href="https://www.unation.com/event/flatlander-half-marathon-flatlander-10k-10986653">CLICK HERE</a> for more information or to register for the Flatlander races.

Great Bend gearing up for Flatlander Half Marathon, 5K Oct. 15

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. East wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 49. East southeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 85. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56. South southeast wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 13 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 87.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 52.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. East wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 49. East southeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 85. South southeast wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56. South southeast wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 13 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 87.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 50.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 84.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.Monday Sunny, with a high near 84.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 52.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's Weather

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau Osage orange trees are still common throughout much of the United States, though not many people appreciate just how much the thorny, dense trees have shaped our country. Before Christopher Columbus’ arrival, Osage orange had a limited range in the Red River basin in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Like the droves of Europeans who followed, the tree eventually spread to all corners of our country, so long as you don’t count Alaska and Hawaii. The thorny, dense trees go by a number of names, including hedge trees, prairie hedge, hedge apple, horse apple, bowwood or yellow wood for the hue of the heartwood. Whatever moniker you choose, the trees were the original barbed wire. After sprouting, the hedge trees were aggressively pruned to promote thick growth that was woven into a living fence considered to be “horse high, bull strong and hog tight." Even after the widespread adoption of barbed wire, wood from the hedge tree is still highly prized for fence posts based on its ability to withstand the elements. Termites and other insects don’t bother the wood. Water doesn’t penetrate the dense grain either. Today, a post made from Osage orange is likely to outlast the strands of barbed wire attached to it. In fact, the posts can be difficult if not impossible to work with if they’re left to season too long after cutting. Hedge posts don’t decay, rather they almost petrify into something between wood and stone. Osage orange’s qualities extend well beyond corralling cattle and other livestock. Its tight grain makes the wood extraordinarily flexible, enough so that a bow made from the tree was worth a horse and blanket in the 1800s. Osage orange also offers the highest heat value of any species when burned as firewood. Osage orange is probably the most popular and widely distributed plant that isn’t a food source for either humans or animals. Its fruit is a softball-sized green ball with folded contours that surround a cluster of seeds. We called them brain blobs growing up because the outer shell consisted of folded contours. They were dense and would make a satisfying sound when flung into a tree trunk. They’ll start falling off trees any day this time of year. Rumor has it the fruits keep all sorts of creepy-crawlies away, from boxelder bugs and crickets to spiders and other pests, especially when placed in basements or near the foundation of a home. Research has yet to find any evidence to support those claims, yet the legends endure. &nbsp;Steel T-posts and pipe braces are gaining favor, but some still prefer to use hedge posts for fencing. Composite compound bows can launch an arrow with a much greater force than the traditional longbow, yet Osage orange bow staves are still readily available. The living fencerows are long gone, but hedge trees planted during the Great Depression as windbreaks still mark the edges of fields. There’s no one quality that has seeded the Osage orange across the countryside, rather versality is its main attribute. From hedge to post or bow to kindling, mankind has found it useful for centuries. While modern materials will eventually win out, they won’t ever have a history quite like hedge.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau Osage orange trees are still common throughout much of the United States, though not many people appreciate just how much the thorny, dense trees have shaped our country. Before Christopher Columbus’ arrival, Osage orange had a limited range in the Red River basin in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Like the droves of Europeans who followed, the tree eventually spread to all corners of our country, so long as you don’t count Alaska and Hawaii. The thorny, dense trees go by a number of names, including hedge trees, prairie hedge, hedge apple, horse apple, bowwood or yellow wood for the hue of the heartwood. Whatever moniker you choose, the trees were the original barbed wire. After sprouting, the hedge trees were aggressively pruned to promote thick growth that was woven into a living fence considered to be “horse high, bull strong and hog tight." Even after the widespread adoption of barbed wire, wood from the hedge tree is still highly prized for fence posts based on its ability to withstand the elements. Termites and other insects don’t bother the wood. Water doesn’t penetrate the dense grain either. Today, a post made from Osage orange is likely to outlast the strands of barbed wire attached to it. In fact, the posts can be difficult if not impossible to work with if they’re left to season too long after cutting. Hedge posts don’t decay, rather they almost petrify into something between wood and stone. Osage orange’s qualities extend well beyond corralling cattle and other livestock. Its tight grain makes the wood extraordinarily flexible, enough so that a bow made from the tree was worth a horse and blanket in the 1800s. Osage orange also offers the highest heat value of any species when burned as firewood. Osage orange is probably the most popular and widely distributed plant that isn’t a food source for either humans or animals. Its fruit is a softball-sized green ball with folded contours that surround a cluster of seeds. We called them brain blobs growing up because the outer shell consisted of folded contours. They were dense and would make a satisfying sound when flung into a tree trunk. They’ll start falling off trees any day this time of year. Rumor has it the fruits keep all sorts of creepy-crawlies away, from boxelder bugs and crickets to spiders and other pests, especially when placed in basements or near the foundation of a home. Research has yet to find any evidence to support those claims, yet the legends endure. &nbsp;Steel T-posts and pipe braces are gaining favor, but some still prefer to use hedge posts for fencing. Composite compound bows can launch an arrow with a much greater force than the traditional longbow, yet Osage orange bow staves are still readily available. The living fencerows are long gone, but hedge trees planted during the Great Depression as windbreaks still mark the edges of fields. There’s no one quality that has seeded the Osage orange across the countryside, rather versality is its main attribute. From hedge to post or bow to kindling, mankind has found it useful for centuries. While modern materials will eventually win out, they won’t ever have a history quite like hedge."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: History of hedge

It's National Suicide Prevention Month and National Farm Safety and Health Week Let's talk.&nbsp;Good mental and physical health are crucial to the agriculture industry, your families and our rural communities. In the&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=f1ff5a9929&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">summer issue</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;Sorghum Grower, we highlighted a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=db4ef969a9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">project</a>&nbsp;the Southwest Ag Center was working on for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and we're excited to share that completed project with you.&nbsp;Grant Heinrich, a farmer and ag aviator from the Lubbock, Texas, area&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=259a60c266&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">shares his&nbsp;experiences</a>&nbsp;that he and his family have had with suicide and agriculture. It's a compelling story, and we encourage you to&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=bbd3530403&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">watch</a>. If you or someone you know is struggling or in a crisis, help is available.&nbsp;Call or text 988. For resources specifically for agricultural producers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d8c6fd0a5b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">farmlifehelp.com</a>. Time is Running Out! Comment to Protect Atrazine Today The use of atrazine is at stake, a product included in more than 90 herbicide products across the U.S.&nbsp;and one that is utilized on 75 percent of U.S. sorghum acres.&nbsp;You don't have time to wait.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=bbb021c51a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Please take two minutes to fill out the comment form online and join us in stopping EPA</a>&nbsp;from limiting your access to atrazine.&nbsp;The deadline to comment is Oct. 7. Don't Count Yourself Out! Enter the Sorghum Yield Contest Today You may not believe your sorghum crop will be competitive&nbsp;in the National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest, but&nbsp;in a drought year, you might be a national winner contestant!&nbsp;It's anybody's contest, and, don't forget, winners have the opportunity to be recognized at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida.&nbsp;Don't count yourself out!&nbsp;Enter today&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=211727ca5f&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">at SorghumGrowers.com/yieldcontest</a>. Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition - New Episode!&nbsp;Tackling Weeds in Sorghum In this&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6c49f1e6f0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">episode</a>, John Duff hosts Scott Staggenborg, product marketing manager for&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d86b7c78f8&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum Partners</a>, to discuss weed control in sorghum and Sorghum Partners’ product&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0b8cde1c42&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Double Team</a>. Learn more about this herbicide tolerant sorghum technology and the path our industry is taking to provide farmers more weed control options in sorghum.

Lawmakers Tee Up Stopgap Funding Bill&nbsp; Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) took the first step Thursday toward considering stopgap funding legislation needed by September 30 to avoid a government shutdown. Schumer teed up a legislative vehicle that will carry the stopgap bill, the contents of which are still being worked on, while also filing cloture on a motion to proceed. The House is ready to move straight to a stopgap funding bill next week once it comes over from the Senate. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) told reporters the current plan is for the Senate to vote on cloture Tuesday night. Congressional leaders and appropriators are expected to spend the weekend negotiating over the details of the Continuing Resolution (CR) Senator Schumer is aiming to unveil Tuesday, which he would offer as a substitute amendment. Senate Democrats plan to attach energy infrastructure permit streamlining legislation authored by Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), at least in the&nbsp;initial&nbsp;volley, but the provision may be stripped out if the CR with the provision fails to secure 60 votes.&nbsp;The CR would fund the government through mid-December when an omnibus appropriations bill may be approved or another short term CR will bring us into the new year, with the election outcome likely to influence which road Congress goes down to conclude the FY2023 funding process. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a1861fc728&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Court Reinstates Trump Administration Endangered Species Rules&nbsp; The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled Wednesday that a district judge who vacated the Trump-era regulations failed to properly evaluate the regulations on their legal merits. The regulations, among other changes to the Endangered Species Act (ESA), prevent the Fish and Wildlife Service from treating species listed as “threatened” under the law as “endangered” and altered the circumstances under which federal agencies engage in ESA consultation over the effects of their actions on listed species and their habitat. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d9b134490c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; Glyphosate Interim Decision Withdrawn&nbsp; The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has withdrawn an interim decision for glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, and says it will complete its registration review in 2026. The agency announced its latest decision Friday in response to a June opinion from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit that vacated the human health portion of EPA’s interim decision after finding the cancer analysis was flawed. It also remanded, but did not vacate, the agency’s ecological risk assessment after finding that the interim decision should not have been issued without an “effects determination” detailing impacts on threatened and endangered species. EPA had been facing an October 1 deadline to complete its registration, but the withdrawal was expected, Roundup maker Bayer said. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9b9683e771&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House GOP Members Look to Shield Agriculture from SEC Regulation&nbsp; Rep. Frank Lucas (R-OK), the former Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, has introduced a bill in the House to exempt agricultural emissions from the Securities and Exchange Commission regulation to require companies to track and disclose the greenhouse gas emissions in their supply chains, including farms and ranches. "Ultimately, the person in the field or the pasture is going to be the goal in this, and that’s why we can’t have it,” Lucas said. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=43052c05a8&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Rep. Thompson: NRCS’s Technical Service Provider Program is 'Broken’&nbsp; House Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican, Rep. G.T. Thompson (R-PA), said Tuesday that the Natural Resources Conservation Service's (NRCS) Technical Service Provider Program is “broken.” Thompson, speaking at a Conservation and Forestry Subcommittee hearing, said Congress needs to look at ways to improve the program so it has enough technical capacity on the ground. View the hearing&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ae83a53aee&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; USDA, EPA Considering E-RINs under Renewable Fuel Standard&nbsp; Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told a supporter of e-RINs for electricity produced from biomass and biogas to look for action this summer, emails obtained by a media outlet show.&nbsp;“We are engaged in discussions with EPA on E-rins,” Vilsack wrote in the May 7 email to Mr. Thomas C. Peters, President of Gronom Corp. and Angel Energy. "You may be seeing action at long last this summer. Will keep you posted. Not sure it is public knowledge and not a done deal, so you may want to keep this to yourself.”&nbsp;Peters had sent an email to Secretary Vilsack on May 1, stating, “there are many people who would love to know” why an e-RIN program hasn’t been implemented.&nbsp;“If you'd like to increase [anaerobic digester] adoption in the dairy industry, this is the way to do it,” said Mr. Peters, who attached a white paper he wrote on the subject that criticized the Office of Management and Budget for not adopting an e-RIN pathway. “And, it would certainly go a long way toward helping small dairy farmers to adopt AD and become profitable with their waste, even if they can't make a profit with their milk. Then, maybe so many wouldn't be going out of business every year.”&nbsp;Vilsack directed adviser Doug McKalip, now the nominee to be the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator, to find out where EPA was on the issue. “Please find out the reason that this has not been approved and what it would take for the EPA to authorize e-RINS,” he wrote May 1. Read more from Agri-Pulse&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4d652a3a48&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Senators Offer Bipartisan Support for USDA Trade Nominee&nbsp; Senators offered bipartisan support for Ms. Alexis Taylor to be USDA’s next trade undersecretary at a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c20d0a9e1f&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Thursday Senate Agriculture Committee Confirmation hearing</a>. Ms. Taylor was Deputy Undersecretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services at USDA during the Obama Administration before being tapped in 2016 to lead the Oregon Department of Agriculture. She also worked for Rep. Leonard Boswell (D-IA) and Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT). Ms. Taylor was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve and served a deployment in Iraq with the 389th Combat Engineer Battalion. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) said she hopes to have a panel vote next week on Ms. Taylor as well as on the nomination of Mr. Jose Esteban, the Undersecretary for Food Safety Nominee, and Mr. Vincent Logan, who has been nominated to be a member of the Farm Credit Administration Board. View the hearing&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5dd8b2d6da&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Farm Groups Urge Senate Vote on McKalip&nbsp; In a letter to Senate leadership, over 100 agriculture groups, including National Sorghum Producers, urged the confirmation of Mr. Doug McKalip, the Biden Administration’s nominee to be the chief agricultural negotiator for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. “On behalf of the broad and diverse stakeholders in American agriculture we represent, we urge you to work with your colleagues to expeditiously confirm Doug McKalip…” the groups say in the&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fcdfd3b3cb&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">letter</a>. Mr. McKalip was unanimously confirmed by the Senate Finance Committee two weeks ago. Senators Propose Loosening Regulations for Truck Drivers Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), John Hoeven (R-ND), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced a bill that would let small trucking businesses and agricultural employees skip Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) and still obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The bill would create a “Small Business Restricted CDL,” which does not require applicants to complete the ELDT process. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0aaddaac66&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Bill Introduced to Double Funds for Ag Export Promotion Senators Angus King (I-ME), &nbsp;Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced the&nbsp;Cultivating Revitalization by Expanding American Agricultural Trade and Exports Act (CREAATE), a bill that would double mandatory annual funding of the Market Access Program, or MAP, to $400 million and Foreign Market Development Program, or FMD, to $69 million.&nbsp;Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5dff12a904&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. USDA Seeks Input on Ag Labor Initiative USDA’s&nbsp; Farm Service Agency is holding three listening sessions next week on a pilot program to help farmers hire H-2A workers from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Along with addressing labor shortages through the program, FSA plans to “implement robust labor standards to promote a safe, healthy work environment” for both domestic and H-2A workers. The program is being funded with $65 million from the American Rescue Plan. FSA wants to hear from employer groups on how comfortable they are with enhanced labor standards, and from unions and farmworker advocacy groups on how to verify that employers are implementing labor protections.&nbsp;More information can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e003e27941&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. FAS Awards $300,000 for Climate Research USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced Monday it is giving $300,000 to six universities for research into agricultural climate projects in tropical countries. “We are pairing some of the United States’ top research institutions and scientists with their counterparts from countries where agriculture is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change,” said FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “We’re confident that they can collaborate on climate solutions that contribute to food security and agricultural sustainability, both locally and globally.”&nbsp;Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=506a47dd49&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. USDA "Equity Commission" Targets FSA County Committee System&nbsp; The commission charged with furthering equity within the Agriculture Department wants USDA to consider eliminating the Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committee system. The "Equity Commission" voted Thursday to recommend in an interim report to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack that USDA “conduct an analysis and study regarding the termination of the county committee system and design a more equitable alternative for ALL farmers." The analysis “should include the current role of the county committees in creating disparities for minority farmers, both the historical role of the county committee system and the current displacement of minority farmers,” the recommendation says. In addition, the commission is recommending that USDA “immediately implement a program to ensure that County Committee minority advisors have access to the FSA Administrator to bring in real time issues or concerns within the county and an annual report of accounting to the Administrator on how that committee is operating” and “appoint a minority VOTING member in areas of high proportion of minority farmers without representation.” Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e611088f9c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. USDA Announces $502 Million for High-Speed Internet in Rural Communities Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Department is awarding $502 million in loans and grants to provide high-speed internet access for rural residents and businesses in 20 states.&nbsp;The Department will make additional investments for rural high-speed internet in the coming months, including funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.&nbsp;Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a672c6c239&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Nutrien Ag Solutions - Northern High Plains Division Joins NSP Industry Partner Program Nutrien Ag Solutions - Northern High Plains Division&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fd855cf2d2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">recently joined</a>&nbsp;the NSP Industry Partner program as a Partner level sponsor.&nbsp;Nutrien is the world’s largest supplier of crop inputs and and services and its Northern High Plains Division provides growers with unparalleled access to high-performing inputs, innovative technologies and personalized agronomic expertise. For more information about the NSP Industry Partner program, contact Jamaca Battin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com" target="_blank">jamaca@sorghumgrowers.com</a>, or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=83bfa15d99&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com/industry-partners</a>. Sorghum Crop Update Eighty-five percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was at or beyond the coloring stage by September 18, six percentage points behind last year and 3 points behind the 5-year average. By September 18, forty-four percent of the nation’s sorghum was mature, 5 percentage points behind last year but equal to the average. Ninety-three percent of Texas’ sorghum was mature by September 18, ten percentage points ahead of last year and 11 points ahead of average. Twenty-four percent of the 2022 sorghum acreage had been harvested by September 18, equal to last year but 2 percentage points behind the average. Twenty percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on September 18, unchanged from the previous week but 36 percentage points below the same time last year. Fall Sorghum Grower Magazine: Photo Submissions Get your camera (or even phone camera) ready, we want to see your sorghum field! Submit your field photos&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=680116a050&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>, or tag us in your #FromTheField photos on social media for a chance to be featured in the upcoming Fall&nbsp;edition of the sorghum grower magazine! Sorghum Checkoff Releases Weekly Sorghum Basis Snapshot The Sorghum Checkoff, with Southwest Agribusiness Consulting, released its weekly sorghum basis snapshot, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b247ad8420&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumCheckoff.com</a>. Sorghum in the Spotlight: <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6225fbba97&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Grain sorghum can fit in South Carolina</a>&nbsp;- Farm Progress <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0107eb8eaa&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Harvest-aid use in grain sorghum</a>&nbsp;- High Plains Journal <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=67a2f51b5d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">DOE $1.85M grant funds sorghum photosynthesis study at U of I</a>&nbsp;- University of Illinois <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0fd21ef019&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">4 Climate-Smart Commodities Grain Projects to Watch</a>&nbsp;- Feed &amp; Grain <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=648c58378e&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Brand Naming Trends in the Snacks and Confectionery Industry</a>&nbsp;- Lab Brand

Upcoming Events October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=691871e598&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Food &amp; Nutrition Conference &amp; Expo (FNCE)</a> October 12 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ff74863d88&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Export Exchange</a>, Minneapolis, MN October 18 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fb20b4add2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">2022 Sunbelt Ag Expo</a>, Moultrie, GA October 19 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b32e3e1c56&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">KibbleCon</a>, Manhattan, KS November 16 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=3c25e9bf5d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sustainable Agriculture Summit</a>&nbsp;Glendale, AZ November 16-18&nbsp; &nbsp;NAFB Trade Talk -&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri November 24-25&nbsp; &nbsp;NSP Office Closed December 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Texas Crop Protection Conference -&nbsp;College Station, Texas December 12-13&nbsp; &nbsp;NSP Board Meeting - Lubbock, Texas December 14-15&nbsp; &nbsp;USCP Board Meeting - Lubbock, Texas Market News&nbsp;-&nbsp;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=24ddbcdb63&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. About Sorghum Notes Sorghum Notes is a publication of the National Sorghum Producers. NSP represents U.S. sorghum producers and serves as the voice of the sorghum industry from coast to coast through education and legislative and regulatory representation.

National Sorghum Producers - Sorghum e-Notes

Clara Barton Therapy Services includes Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy - often working together to improve a patient’s quality of life by helping them achieve a healthier and more independent lifestyle. They provide services to all ages and work closely with their patients to evaluate their condition and develop an effective, personalized plan of care. Striving to further expand care in therapy services, Clara Barton Medical Center recently added two full-time Speech Therapists, Betsy Snell, M.A., CCC – SLP, and Halle Knigge, M.S., CF – SLP, and a full-time Occupational Therapist, Benton Hrabe, OTD OTR/L, CLT.

Betsy Snell is an Ellinwood, KS native. She attended the University of Kansas and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences and a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. She is also certified in LSVT LOUD (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment), an effective voice treatment approach specifically for persons with Parkinson’s Disease, and the McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program – a systematic exercise-based approach to swallow therapy. Snell specializes in pediatric &amp; adult neurorehabilitation (stroke patients, traumatic brain injuries).

Halle Knigge grew up in Fairbury, NE, and attended Kansas State University for her Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Human Services. She continued her education at Fort Hays State University where she obtained a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and was honored as the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders’ Most Outstanding Graduate Student in 2021. Knigge is also certified in LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment). Ultimately, her goal is to become more specialized in swallowing and swallowing disorders to better serve her patients.

Speech Therapists work with people in a variety of ways to improve their speech, language, social, and cognitive skills. A person’s communication skills are critical at each stage of life—for young children, as a strong foundation for language and literacy; for school-aged children, as a requirement for academic and social success; and for adults, as a crucial part of their career and personal relationships.

Unbeknownst to many, speech therapists also play a role in helping people to swallow and eat safely. Again, problems in these areas can occur across the age span, but at any stage, safe swallowing and eating are essential to a person’s health and quality of life.

“We are so excited for the addition of two full-time speech therapists,” said Natalie Bieberle, Director of Therapy Services. “This benefits our patients and community significantly for the numerous services that speech therapy offers, and I am excited to see the program grow in multiple realms. Betsy and Halle both bring great knowledge and passion for their patients and profession.”

In addition to their new Speech Therapists, Clara Barton is also excited to welcome Occupational Therapist, Benton Hrabe, to their team of skilled therapy professionals. Hrabe is originally from Kensington, KS. He attended Kansas State University, receiving dual bachelor’s degrees in both Human

Development and Family Science and Gerontology. Continuing his education, he then received his Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Drake University in Des Moines, IA.

“Benton is another great addition to Clara Barton and joins our team with certifications in multiple areas that brings diversity to our occupational therapy services,” said Bieberle. “He advocates for his patients and his profession, and I am excited for him to share his profound knowledge with our patients and community.”

In addition to Occupation Therapy, Hrabe is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist with an emphasis on Breast Cancer/Radiation Related Lymphedema and received “Stepping On Leader/Facilitator Certification” – a community fall reduction course for older adults.

Occupational Therapy is needed for a variety of reasons and can help those that have had an injury, illness, disability, or pain that makes it hard to work, go to school, provide self-care, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. This form of treatment teaches patients of all ages, from premature babies to young children, adults in midlife, and seniors, how to adapt and use tools to perform any kind of task at school, at work, or at home. Set goals are designed for an individual’s needs, disability, or limits. Then, they can work on adapting movements, improving motor skills or hand-eye coordination, or doing tasks in new ways.

“Betsy, Halle, and Benton are joining an experienced and passionate Therapy Services team and I am excited to help cultivate the progression of treatments and services offered at Clara Barton Medical Center,” said Bieberle.

All therapy services are available from 7 AM - 5 PM, Monday - Friday at Clara Barton Medical Center. To qualify for these services through insurance a referral is needed. For more information or for a free 15-minute speech therapy consult from Snell or Knigge, call 620-653-5065.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664287602170.jpeg" alt="Betsy Snell" />
 <figcaption>Betsy Snell</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSClara Barton Therapy Services includes Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy - often working together to improve a patient’s quality of life by helping them achieve a healthier and more independent lifestyle. They provide services to all ages and work closely with their patients to evaluate their condition and develop an effective, personalized plan of care. Striving to further expand care in therapy services, Clara Barton Medical Center recently added two full-time Speech Therapists, Betsy Snell, M.A., CCC – SLP, and Halle Knigge, M.S., CF – SLP, and a full-time Occupational Therapist, Benton Hrabe, OTD OTR/L, CLT.Betsy Snell is an Ellinwood, KS native. She attended the University of Kansas and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences and a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. She is also certified in LSVT LOUD (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment), an effective voice treatment approach specifically for persons with Parkinson’s Disease, and the McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program – a systematic exercise-based approach to swallow therapy. Snell specializes in pediatric &amp; adult neurorehabilitation (stroke patients, traumatic brain injuries).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664287664377.jpeg" alt="Halle Knigge" />
 <figcaption>Halle Knigge</figcaption>
 </figure>Halle Knigge grew up in Fairbury, NE, and attended Kansas State University for her Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Human Services. She continued her education at Fort Hays State University where she obtained a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and was honored as the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders’ Most Outstanding Graduate Student in 2021. Knigge is also certified in LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment). Ultimately, her goal is to become more specialized in swallowing and swallowing disorders to better serve her patients.Speech Therapists work with people in a variety of ways to improve their speech, language, social, and cognitive skills. A person’s communication skills are critical at each stage of life—for young children, as a strong foundation for language and literacy; for school-aged children, as a requirement for academic and social success; and for adults, as a crucial part of their career and personal relationships.Unbeknownst to many, speech therapists also play a role in helping people to swallow and eat safely. Again, problems in these areas can occur across the age span, but at any stage, safe swallowing and eating are essential to a person’s health and quality of life.“We are so excited for the addition of two full-time speech therapists,” said Natalie Bieberle, Director of Therapy Services. “This benefits our patients and community significantly for the numerous services that speech therapy offers, and I am excited to see the program grow in multiple realms. Betsy and Halle both bring great knowledge and passion for their patients and profession.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664287630729.jpeg" alt="Benton Hrabe" />
 <figcaption>Benton Hrabe</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to their new Speech Therapists, Clara Barton is also excited to welcome Occupational Therapist, Benton Hrabe, to their team of skilled therapy professionals. Hrabe is originally from Kensington, KS. He attended Kansas State University, receiving dual bachelor’s degrees in both HumanDevelopment and Family Science and Gerontology. Continuing his education, he then received his Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Drake University in Des Moines, IA.“Benton is another great addition to Clara Barton and joins our team with certifications in multiple areas that brings diversity to our occupational therapy services,” said Bieberle. “He advocates for his patients and his profession, and I am excited for him to share his profound knowledge with our patients and community.”In addition to Occupation Therapy, Hrabe is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist with an emphasis on Breast Cancer/Radiation Related Lymphedema and received “Stepping On Leader/Facilitator Certification” – a community fall reduction course for older adults.Occupational Therapy is needed for a variety of reasons and can help those that have had an injury, illness, disability, or pain that makes it hard to work, go to school, provide self-care, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. This form of treatment teaches patients of all ages, from premature babies to young children, adults in midlife, and seniors, how to adapt and use tools to perform any kind of task at school, at work, or at home. Set goals are designed for an individual’s needs, disability, or limits. Then, they can work on adapting movements, improving motor skills or hand-eye coordination, or doing tasks in new ways.“Betsy, Halle, and Benton are joining an experienced and passionate Therapy Services team and I am excited to help cultivate the progression of treatments and services offered at Clara Barton Medical Center,” said Bieberle.All therapy services are available from 7 AM - 5 PM, Monday - Friday at Clara Barton Medical Center. To qualify for these services through insurance a referral is needed. For more information or for a free 15-minute speech therapy consult from Snell or Knigge, call 620-653-5065.

Clara Barton welcomes new additions to therapy department

Great Bend Police: Behind the Badge

Nashville-based Steve Leslie will sing a heart-warming tribute to legendary singer/songwriter James Taylor in “How Sweet It Is,” the first concert of the Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s 2022-2023 season. The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

A singer/songwriter himself, Leslie, who describes Taylor as one of his greatest influences, presents an authentic and spellbinding tribute with his warm baritone and exceptional guitar technique, and he often has audiences singing along to Taylor’s well-known folk rock, pop, blues and country songs. Leslie is accompanied by Kyle Tupper on piano.

Leslie has received accolades for the music he has written and his songs have been recorded by such country greats as Kenny Rogers, Mark Chesnutt, George Strait, Neal McCoy, Darius Rucker and many others. He wrote “That’s the Truth,” for George Strait’s album, “Always Never the Same,” and he won a Grammy award for penning the title song, “Brand New Strings,” for Ricky Skaggs’s 2004 Best Bluegrass Album. He has played at the grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and can be seen regularly at the world-famous Bluebird Café.

Leslie’s background in music is rich in both experience and education. With a bachelor’s degree in guitar and jazz studies from Morehead State University in Ky., Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Boston, Mass. He was an adjunct professor of songwriting at Belmont University in Nashville from 2011-2014.

This GBCCA event is open to association members. No single concert tickets are available. Anyone who is not a member and wishes to purchase a season membership may do so at this concert. Because the concert association encourages music education in the schools, full-time students of any age will be admitted to the concert for a $5 donation at the door.

Season memberships are $50 per adult; $10 for any full-time enrolled student; $110 for a Family Membership (two adults and all dependent children living in the same household); and $110 for a Grandparent Package (two adults and up to four minor grandchildren).

For more information about GBCCA and to see video previews of the new season’s concerts, go to the web site, www.goldenbeltcca.org, or call 620-793-2748.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664287118638.jpeg" alt="Steve Leslie, right, will perform “How Sweet It Is,” a tribute to James Taylor, for members of the Golden Belt Community Concert Association at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. At left, behind the piano is Leslie’s accompanist, Kyle Tupper." />
 <figcaption>Steve Leslie, right, will perform “How Sweet It Is,” a tribute to James Taylor, for members of the Golden Belt Community Concert Association at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. At left, behind the piano is Leslie’s accompanist, Kyle Tupper.</figcaption>
 </figure>Nashville-based Steve Leslie will sing a heart-warming tribute to legendary singer/songwriter James Taylor in “How Sweet It Is,” the first concert of the Golden Belt Community Concert Association’s 2022-2023 season. The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.A singer/songwriter himself, Leslie, who describes Taylor as one of his greatest influences, presents an authentic and spellbinding tribute with his warm baritone and exceptional guitar technique, and he often has audiences singing along to Taylor’s well-known folk rock, pop, blues and country songs. Leslie is accompanied by Kyle Tupper on piano.Leslie has received accolades for the music he has written and his songs have been recorded by such country greats as Kenny Rogers, Mark Chesnutt, George Strait, Neal McCoy, Darius Rucker and many others. He wrote “That’s the Truth,” for George Strait’s album, “Always Never the Same,” and he won a Grammy award for penning the title song, “Brand New Strings,” for Ricky Skaggs’s 2004 Best Bluegrass Album. He has played at the grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and can be seen regularly at the world-famous Bluebird Café.Leslie’s background in music is rich in both experience and education. With a bachelor’s degree in guitar and jazz studies from Morehead State University in Ky., Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Boston, Mass. He was an adjunct professor of songwriting at Belmont University in Nashville from 2011-2014.This GBCCA event is open to association members. No single concert tickets are available. Anyone who is not a member and wishes to purchase a season membership may do so at this concert. Because the concert association encourages music education in the schools, full-time students of any age will be admitted to the concert for a $5 donation at the door.Season memberships are $50 per adult; $10 for any full-time enrolled student; $110 for a Family Membership (two adults and all dependent children living in the same household); and $110 for a Grandparent Package (two adults and up to four minor grandchildren).For more information about GBCCA and to see video previews of the new season’s concerts, go to the web site, www.goldenbeltcca.org, or call 620-793-2748.

Tribute to James Taylor is season’s first Community Concert

Many Kansas cattle operations rely on some type of harvested feed to use in the winter months and common among those sources is forage sorghum, millets, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudan. Forages in the sorghum family are prone to two different problems for feeding cattle, nitrate poisoning and prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid, HCN) poisoning. Millet (proso and pearl) do not contain prussic acid but can have nitrates. Prussic acid and nitrate poisoning are easy to get confused because both result in a lack of oxygen availability to the animal and are more likely to occur when the plant is stressed (fertility, hail, drought).

Table 1. Key characteristics of nitrate and prussic acid poisoning.

In dry areas of the state, cattle may be removed from pasture early. Bringing hungry cattle into pens with weeds can be very dangerous as the nitrate concentration may be elevated throughout the plant and animal intake high. Manure in corrals can contribute to the elevation of nitrates in the weeds. Elevated nitrates may not result in death but could cause abortions.

The current KSU forage fact sheet on prussic acid poisoning indicates that prussic acid potential dissipates as the forage dries. Additionally, hay or silage that likely contained high cyanide concentrations at harvest should be analyzed before it is fed. This second statement is often forgotten and it’s assumed that when the plant dries, all the cells are ruptured and any HCN is released. To confirm this, we measured dhurrin content in sorghum hay. The dhurrin content was stable from 1 to 10 weeks of dry storage. In the plant, dhurrin (the precursor to HCN in sorghum species) and the enzyme that converts it to cyanide, are stored in separate compartments within the cell. When the plant is eaten, the compartments are ruptured, and the cyanide formed and released. While the enzyme that converts dhurrin to cyanide is inactivated with drying, rumen enzymes can make the same conversion after consumption. If hay is made from forages in the sorghum family or other susceptible species, testing for prussic acid in forage that has suffered from drought, hail or fertility issues is advised. The frequency of issues with prussic acid in harvested forages may be relatively low, however, testing is cheap compared to the cost of losing even one animal.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Many Kansas cattle operations rely on some type of harvested feed to use in the winter months and common among those sources is forage sorghum, millets, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudan. Forages in the sorghum family are prone to two different problems for feeding cattle, nitrate poisoning and prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid, HCN) poisoning. Millet (proso and pearl) do not contain prussic acid but can have nitrates. Prussic acid and nitrate poisoning are easy to get confused because both result in a lack of oxygen availability to the animal and are more likely to occur when the plant is stressed (fertility, hail, drought).Table 1. Key characteristics of nitrate and prussic acid poisoning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664286422853.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In dry areas of the state, cattle may be removed from pasture early. Bringing hungry cattle into pens with weeds can be very dangerous as the nitrate concentration may be elevated throughout the plant and animal intake high. Manure in corrals can contribute to the elevation of nitrates in the weeds. Elevated nitrates may not result in death but could cause abortions.The current KSU forage fact sheet on prussic acid poisoning indicates that prussic acid potential dissipates as the forage dries. Additionally, hay or silage that likely contained high cyanide concentrations at harvest should be analyzed before it is fed. This second statement is often forgotten and it’s assumed that when the plant dries, all the cells are ruptured and any HCN is released. To confirm this, we measured dhurrin content in sorghum hay. The dhurrin content was stable from 1 to 10 weeks of dry storage. In the plant, dhurrin (the precursor to HCN in sorghum species) and the enzyme that converts it to cyanide, are stored in separate compartments within the cell. When the plant is eaten, the compartments are ruptured, and the cyanide formed and released. While the enzyme that converts dhurrin to cyanide is inactivated with drying, rumen enzymes can make the same conversion after consumption. If hay is made from forages in the sorghum family or other susceptible species, testing for prussic acid in forage that has suffered from drought, hail or fertility issues is advised. The frequency of issues with prussic acid in harvested forages may be relatively low, however, testing is cheap compared to the cost of losing even one animal.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.