9/12 BOOKED: William Jordan on Clark County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $259.35 cash only.

BOOKED: Damien Findley on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, bonds set at $1,077.50 and $1,002.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Shadd Wondra on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Tessa Hoft, on hold for Phillips County Sheriff's Office.

BOOKED: Christopher Rust on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Criminal Use of a Weapon, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, bond set at $40,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Duty Upon Striking Property, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: William Jordan on Clark County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $259.35 cash bond.

RELEASED: Roy Magnuson on Barton County District Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Bobbi Jo Sowell on barton County District Court case, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Shadd Wondra on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Gefferey Palacio on four Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/12 BOOKED: William Jordan on Clark County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $259.35 cash only.BOOKED: Damien Findley on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, bonds set at $1,077.50 and $1,002.50 cash only.BOOKED: Shadd Wondra on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Tessa Hoft, on hold for Phillips County Sheriff's Office.BOOKED: Christopher Rust on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Criminal Use of a Weapon, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, bond set at $40,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Duty Upon Striking Property, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: William Jordan on Clark County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $259.35 cash bond.RELEASED: Christopher Stamm, to KDOC.RELEASED: Freddie Thomas, to KDOC.RELEASED: Roy Magnuson on Barton County District Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Bobbi Jo Sowell on barton County District Court case, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Shadd Wondra on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Gefferey Palacio on four Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (9/12)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The longest disc golf ace on record was thrown more than 500 feet. Many players, however, especially new ones, would be pleased to throw a disc half that distance. That's why changes have been made to the Great Bend Disc Golf Course, shortening holes for more competitive rounds between average and beginning golfers. The redesign will be the first since professional disc golfer Eric McCabe helped reset the course in 2018.

"The original design was very family-friendly," said Shane Sandberg, co-founder of the Great Bend Flyers Disc Golf Club. "They had to change several holes when the dog park was added. That kind of made it impossible for us to have tournaments there because there were holes sharing fairways. That's why we brought (McCabe) down to add our new tournament layout, the harder course. Over the last four years, we've realized we don't see as many new players or families out there playing. We thought it might be nice just to add some more family-friend pin placements out there."

Prior to the change, several of the holes on the course were par threes at more than 400 feet. Short pin positions have been added on 17 of the 18 holes, and the other already had a short position. Most holes are now between 200 and 250 feet. Holes near the lake on the back nine have also been adjusted to minimize the water hazard.

"If a new player goes out and the only option they have is a pro-level course design, especially with water involved where they might be losing their discs, it might be discouraging, and they might decide maybe the game is not for them," Sandberg said. "We added the short placement so they have a chance to get some birdies, to encourage them, and make it more fun for new players."

But the McCabe-designed course is not lost. Dummy posts have been installed where each of those baskets was, and the baskets can be switched out. Sandberg said for the big invitational in the spring, one round will likely use the new positions and another round the old positions.

Chris Umphres and the Great Bend Recreation Commission funded the new sleeves, and Chuck Pike paid for the installation. Jerry Staab, one of the sport's biggest promoters in the area, did much of the installation work on his own.

"Even with a power auger, we weren't able to punch those holes deep enough, so we actually had to hire someone with a Bobcat to go out there and do that," said Sandberg. "Chuck paid for all of it."

For more information on weekly competitions at the course, usually held each Monday evening with cash prizes involved, find the Great Bend Disc Golf page on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658023192376.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe longest disc golf ace on record was thrown more than 500 feet. Many players, however, especially new ones, would be pleased to throw a disc half that distance. That's why changes have been made to the Great Bend Disc Golf Course, shortening holes for more competitive rounds between average and beginning golfers. The redesign will be the first since professional disc golfer Eric McCabe helped reset the course in 2018."The original design was very family-friendly," said Shane Sandberg, co-founder of the Great Bend Flyers Disc Golf Club. "They had to change several holes when the dog park was added. That kind of made it impossible for us to have tournaments there because there were holes sharing fairways. That's why we brought (McCabe) down to add our new tournament layout, the harder course. Over the last four years, we've realized we don't see as many new players or families out there playing. We thought it might be nice just to add some more family-friend pin placements out there."Prior to the change, several of the holes on the course were par threes at more than 400 feet. Short pin positions have been added on 17 of the 18 holes, and the other already had a short position. Most holes are now between 200 and 250 feet. Holes near the lake on the back nine have also been adjusted to minimize the water hazard."If a new player goes out and the only option they have is a pro-level course design, especially with water involved where they might be losing their discs, it might be discouraging, and they might decide maybe the game is not for them," Sandberg said. "We added the short placement so they have a chance to get some birdies, to encourage them, and make it more fun for new players."But the McCabe-designed course is not lost. Dummy posts have been installed where each of those baskets was, and the baskets can be switched out. Sandberg said for the big invitational in the spring, one round will likely use the new positions and another round the old positions.Chris Umphres and the Great Bend Recreation Commission funded the new sleeves, and Chuck Pike paid for the installation. Jerry Staab, one of the sport's biggest promoters in the area, did much of the installation work on his own."Even with a power auger, we weren't able to punch those holes deep enough, so we actually had to hire someone with a Bobcat to go out there and do that," said Sandberg. "Chuck paid for all of it."For more information on weekly competitions at the course, usually held each Monday evening with cash prizes involved, find the Great Bend Disc Golf page on Facebook.

Holes shortened at Great Bend Disc Golf Course

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Grain bins. As you look at them and think of their purpose, you don’t
always associate a danger with the large containers. Accidents and emergencies
happen with grain bins more frequently than you think. 

That’s a big reason why
staff from the Oklahoma State University Fire Service Training were in Great
Bend last Friday to show local firefighters the proper steps in rescuing anyone
that gets trapped in a grain bin. 
Shane Campbell, with OSU Fire Service Training in Stillwater, Oklahoma,
mentioned a lot agricultural families will send their children inside the grain
bins to clean off the top. "The best thing we can teach them is to not go in the grain bin unless you absolutely have to," said Campbell. "If you do, make sure you don't do it by yourself and have the proper gear and equipment to do it."

The local Farm Bureau sponsored the training at Great Bend Fire Department
Station #2 this past weekend. 

Fire Chief Luke McCormick was among several
firefighters that went into the grain bin modular, filled with pellets representing
grain, and practiced the steps of safely removing a victim. "That grain is very heavy," said McCormick. "As a person gets buried, even down to your knees or waist, the average person is not going to be able to get themselves out of that situation. The deeper they go and more they fight, the more the grain is going to get them entrapped. That makes it harder to breathe and harder to get out." 
Both Campbell and McCormick encouraged anyone going into a grain bin to make
use of a harness system. If the grain does collapse beneath your feet, the
harness will keep you suspended above the grain until help arrives.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hear the full interviews with McCormick and Campbell below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663009455448.jpeg" alt="Members of the Great Bend Fire Department, and other area fire departments, participated in grain bin safety training on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022." />
 <figcaption>Members of the Great Bend Fire Department, and other area fire departments, participated in grain bin safety training on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGrain bins. As you look at them and think of their purpose, you don’t
always associate a danger with the large containers. Accidents and emergencies
happen with grain bins more frequently than you think. That’s a big reason why
staff from the Oklahoma State University Fire Service Training were in Great
Bend last Friday to show local firefighters the proper steps in rescuing anyone
that gets trapped in a grain bin. 
Shane Campbell, with OSU Fire Service Training in Stillwater, Oklahoma,
mentioned a lot agricultural families will send their children inside the grain
bins to clean off the top. "The best thing we can teach them is to not go in the grain bin unless you absolutely have to," said Campbell. "If you do, make sure you don't do it by yourself and have the proper gear and equipment to do it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663009524287.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The local Farm Bureau sponsored the training at Great Bend Fire Department
Station #2 this past weekend. Fire Chief Luke McCormick was among several
firefighters that went into the grain bin modular, filled with pellets representing
grain, and practiced the steps of safely removing a victim. "That grain is very heavy," said McCormick. "As a person gets buried, even down to your knees or waist, the average person is not going to be able to get themselves out of that situation. The deeper they go and more they fight, the more the grain is going to get them entrapped. That makes it harder to breathe and harder to get out." 
Both Campbell and McCormick encouraged anyone going into a grain bin to make
use of a harness system. If the grain does collapse beneath your feet, the
harness will keep you suspended above the grain until help arrives.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hear the full interviews with McCormick and Campbell below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/3wxvh1vm/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

🎧Great Bend Fire Dept. learns the dangers of grain bin accidents

Today Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 8 to 11 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 65. South southeast wind 11 to 13 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Thursday A slight chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 89.

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

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 69.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 95. Breezy.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 70.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 8 to 11 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 65. South southeast wind 11 to 13 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Thursday A slight chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.Friday Sunny, with a high near 89.Friday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 69.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 95. Breezy.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 70.Monday Sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

“Kon'nichiwa.” That is hello in Japanese. Today, a shipment from the United States is arriving in Japan. It’s some samples of specialty, high quality pork produced by a family halfway around the globe in rural Kansas.

Kaden and Emily Roush are the owners of R Family Farms and a local grocery store in Lebanon, Kan. Kaden grew up in Lebanon on a crop and livestock farm. Five generations of his family have been involved in agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hog production was a major part of the Roush family operation until the hog market crash of the 1990s. As described by the family’s website: “However, out of the ashes sprang an opportunity for an energetic little boy, a few sows, and a 4-H project.”&nbsp;

Young Kaden Roush was that little boy.&nbsp;

Roush enrolled in the swine project in 4-H, raised pigs and showed them successfully at the county fair. Soon he was selling extra pigs to fellow 4-H members.&nbsp;

In the process, Roush developed a knack for livestock evaluation. He would develop and use those skills on the livestock judging teams at Allen Community College in Iola and then Kansas State University. The national judging team tours gave Roush the opportunity to observe diversity in agriculture and potential opportunities for marketing pork.&nbsp;

Roush soon met Emily. She was raised on a three-generation wheat, corn and soybean farm near the rural community of Iola, population 5,396 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Emily was active in FFA. After studying at Allen Community College, she finished her degree in agronomy at K-State and married Kaden. He earned a degree in agribusiness with a major in animal science.&nbsp;

Together, Kaden and Emily’s families embody more than two centuries of history of caring for the land and animals.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kaden and Emily thought about the opportunities for niche marketing of pork and decided to move back to his home area to launch a specialty hog enterprise. They named it R Family Farms. The Roush website states about Emily: “Although pigs were not her first love (or second, for that matter), she quickly grew to love them and joyfully welcomed them as a part of her future.”&nbsp;

The Roush’s vision was to educate consumers about where their food comes from while providing a world-class culinary experience. To do so, they chose to raise the Berkshire breed of hogs.&nbsp;

In 2015, R Family Farms broke ground on a new hog facility. The first Berkshire pigs arrived in January 2016. Today, R Family Farms is home to 75 sows that farrow all year long. The resulting litters are raised to market weight.&nbsp;About half of the meat is sold by private label and half to vendors in Missouri. In 2019, they shipped samples to Japan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kaden works as a loan officer at a local bank and Emily serves as Lebanon city clerk.&nbsp;

The family needed a specific outlet for their specialty Berkshire pork. They were supplying pork to a national chain of organic whole food stores when the chain cancelled their contract. It appeared to be a disaster.&nbsp;

Then they were contacted by Paradise Locker Meats in Paradise, Mo. That company was selling Berkshire pork to high-end restaurants and suddenly found that their source could not supply it.&nbsp;

“It was divine intervention,” Emily said. “We lost our contract and he’d lost his supplier.&nbsp;&nbsp;He needed the number of hogs that we had.”&nbsp;

The Roush’s farm supplied the pork and Paradise Locker Meats filled the order. The two businesses have worked together ever since.&nbsp;

Today, R Family Farms is using old-style outdoor production practices combined with modern day technology to bring superior quality pork to market.&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rfamilyfarmsks.com/">www.rfamilyfarmsks.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s time to leave Japan, which was the recipient of these Berkshire pork samples produced halfway around the world in Kansas. We salute Kaden and Emily Roush of R Family Farms for making a difference with innovative marketing of their products.&nbsp;

It’s time to say goodbye – or as they say in Japan, “Sayonara.”&nbsp;

And there’s more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember that the Roush family owns a grocery store?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662555942364.png" alt="Screen Shot 2022-09-07 at 8.05.22 AM.png" />
 <figcaption>Screen Shot 2022-09-07 at 8.05.22 AM.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“Kon'nichiwa.” That is hello in Japanese. Today, a shipment from the United States is arriving in Japan. It’s some samples of specialty, high quality pork produced by a family halfway around the globe in rural Kansas.Kaden and Emily Roush are the owners of R Family Farms and a local grocery store in Lebanon, Kan. Kaden grew up in Lebanon on a crop and livestock farm. Five generations of his family have been involved in agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hog production was a major part of the Roush family operation until the hog market crash of the 1990s. As described by the family’s website: “However, out of the ashes sprang an opportunity for an energetic little boy, a few sows, and a 4-H project.”&nbsp;Young Kaden Roush was that little boy.&nbsp;Roush enrolled in the swine project in 4-H, raised pigs and showed them successfully at the county fair. Soon he was selling extra pigs to fellow 4-H members.&nbsp;In the process, Roush developed a knack for livestock evaluation. He would develop and use those skills on the livestock judging teams at Allen Community College in Iola and then Kansas State University. The national judging team tours gave Roush the opportunity to observe diversity in agriculture and potential opportunities for marketing pork.&nbsp;Roush soon met Emily. She was raised on a three-generation wheat, corn and soybean farm near the rural community of Iola, population 5,396 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Emily was active in FFA. After studying at Allen Community College, she finished her degree in agronomy at K-State and married Kaden. He earned a degree in agribusiness with a major in animal science.&nbsp;Together, Kaden and Emily’s families embody more than two centuries of history of caring for the land and animals.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kaden and Emily thought about the opportunities for niche marketing of pork and decided to move back to his home area to launch a specialty hog enterprise. They named it R Family Farms. The Roush website states about Emily: “Although pigs were not her first love (or second, for that matter), she quickly grew to love them and joyfully welcomed them as a part of her future.”&nbsp;The Roush’s vision was to educate consumers about where their food comes from while providing a world-class culinary experience. To do so, they chose to raise the Berkshire breed of hogs.&nbsp;In 2015, R Family Farms broke ground on a new hog facility. The first Berkshire pigs arrived in January 2016. Today, R Family Farms is home to 75 sows that farrow all year long. The resulting litters are raised to market weight.&nbsp;About half of the meat is sold by private label and half to vendors in Missouri. In 2019, they shipped samples to Japan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kaden works as a loan officer at a local bank and Emily serves as Lebanon city clerk.&nbsp;The family needed a specific outlet for their specialty Berkshire pork. They were supplying pork to a national chain of organic whole food stores when the chain cancelled their contract. It appeared to be a disaster.&nbsp;Then they were contacted by Paradise Locker Meats in Paradise, Mo. That company was selling Berkshire pork to high-end restaurants and suddenly found that their source could not supply it.&nbsp;“It was divine intervention,” Emily said. “We lost our contract and he’d lost his supplier.&nbsp;&nbsp;He needed the number of hogs that we had.”&nbsp;The Roush’s farm supplied the pork and Paradise Locker Meats filled the order. The two businesses have worked together ever since.&nbsp;Today, R Family Farms is using old-style outdoor production practices combined with modern day technology to bring superior quality pork to market.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rfamilyfarmsks.com/">www.rfamilyfarmsks.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s time to leave Japan, which was the recipient of these Berkshire pork samples produced halfway around the world in Kansas. We salute Kaden and Emily Roush of R Family Farms for making a difference with innovative marketing of their products.&nbsp;It’s time to say goodbye – or as they say in Japan, “Sayonara.”&nbsp;And there’s more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember that the Roush family owns a grocery store?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Kaden and Emily Roush, R Family Farms 

Early childhood education continues to be a growing concern for parents and educators in Central Kansas alike. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education took a big step towards addressing those concerns, unanimously agreeing on the purchase of the CUNA Mutual property located just off the 281 Bypass at 1809 24th Street in Great Bend.

"We're looking at that as an early childhood center," said USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton. "That's the start. There's plenty of space in there for more than that. We may consolidate some other buildings and move into that facility. We can take a few other buildings and put into that."

USD 428 plans to take possession of the property in December. The property was valuated at more than $4 million. CUNA Mutual agreed to donate $2.7 million of that price, selling the property to the district for the remaining $1.3 million.

"It's one of those, you can't really put a dollar figure on it of what it's actually worth, or what it would cost to build," Thexton said. "But for us, it gives us space to expand our early childhood programs at a fraction of the cost it would be to build brand new. That's a big help for us."

&nbsp;Surveying incoming students, the district discovered that 30 percent of students enter kindergarten without attending a high-quality preschool. Over the last half-decade, the district has explored ways to meet local needs for preschool programs for children 3-4 years of age.

CUNA Mutual Group Executive Vice President and Chief Enterprise Services Officer Cedric Ellis said in a press release, "At CUNA Mutual Group we are committed to supporting the communities in which we serve. Saying we’re committed doesn’t mean much without action. By offering this property at a greatly reduced cost to the Great Bend school district, we are leaning into our values and providing the community with a much-needed resource—the opportunity and space for early childhood education.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663029821577.jpeg" alt="Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education agreed on the purchase of the CUNA Mutual property for $1.3 million." />
 <figcaption>Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education agreed on the purchase of the CUNA Mutual property for $1.3 million.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEarly childhood education continues to be a growing concern for parents and educators in Central Kansas alike. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education took a big step towards addressing those concerns, unanimously agreeing on the purchase of the CUNA Mutual property located just off the 281 Bypass at 1809 24th Street in Great Bend."We're looking at that as an early childhood center," said USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton. "That's the start. There's plenty of space in there for more than that. We may consolidate some other buildings and move into that facility. We can take a few other buildings and put into that."USD 428 plans to take possession of the property in December. The property was valuated at more than $4 million. CUNA Mutual agreed to donate $2.7 million of that price, selling the property to the district for the remaining $1.3 million."It's one of those, you can't really put a dollar figure on it of what it's actually worth, or what it would cost to build," Thexton said. "But for us, it gives us space to expand our early childhood programs at a fraction of the cost it would be to build brand new. That's a big help for us."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663029946916.jpeg" alt="Little Panthers Preschoolers enjoy a mentor-reading program from Great Bend Middle School students. Even with Little Panthers, all USD preschool programs are full and have waiting lists." />
 <figcaption>Little Panthers Preschoolers enjoy a mentor-reading program from Great Bend Middle School students. Even with Little Panthers, all USD preschool programs are full and have waiting lists.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Surveying incoming students, the district discovered that 30 percent of students enter kindergarten without attending a high-quality preschool. Over the last half-decade, the district has explored ways to meet local needs for preschool programs for children 3-4 years of age.CUNA Mutual Group Executive Vice President and Chief Enterprise Services Officer Cedric Ellis said in a press release, "At CUNA Mutual Group we are committed to supporting the communities in which we serve. Saying we’re committed doesn’t mean much without action. By offering this property at a greatly reduced cost to the Great Bend school district, we are leaning into our values and providing the community with a much-needed resource—the opportunity and space for early childhood education.”

USD 428 acquires CUNA Mutual property at reduced price

The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services while navigating back to school costs, help is available to stay connected.

During Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission encourages Kansans in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP). Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access healthcare, attend classes, keep up with homework, find jobs and call for help in an emergency.

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in both programs. Due to higher income maximums, ACP also has the potential to help many families with internet costs that may not qualify for other types of assistance. For example, the maximum income for a family of four on the ACP program is $55,500 per year. The maximum annual income for a family of four on the Lifeline program is $37,463.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. The Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP) provides a service discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet purchased through a participating provider. Both programs offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline or at or below 200% for ACP) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

Regardless of&nbsp;Lifeline&nbsp;eligibility, Kansans may still qualify for&nbsp;ACP&nbsp;if they meet any of the following criteria:

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTIuNjM1NjQ4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.zAmb7_mzfI6NL9GTJa62Swsuqb5C9sRJGrzKBlsKcpY/s/2166754189/br/143846354794-l" target="_blank">KCC website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661182427053.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services while navigating back to school costs, help is available to stay connected.During Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission encourages Kansans in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP). Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access healthcare, attend classes, keep up with homework, find jobs and call for help in an emergency.Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in both programs. Due to higher income maximums, ACP also has the potential to help many families with internet costs that may not qualify for other types of assistance. For example, the maximum income for a family of four on the ACP program is $55,500 per year. The maximum annual income for a family of four on the Lifeline program is $37,463.Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. The Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP) provides a service discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet purchased through a participating provider. Both programs offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline or at or below 200% for ACP) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:<ul>
 <li>Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)</li><li>Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)</li><li>Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)</li><li>Veterans Pension &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit</li><li>Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance</li><li>Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families</li><li>Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)</li><li>The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands.</li>
 </ul>Regardless of&nbsp;Lifeline&nbsp;eligibility, Kansans may still qualify for&nbsp;ACP&nbsp;if they meet any of the following criteria:<ul>
 <li>Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.</li><li>Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.</li><li>Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.</li><li>Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.</li>
 </ul>More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA5MTIuNjM1NjQ4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.zAmb7_mzfI6NL9GTJa62Swsuqb5C9sRJGrzKBlsKcpY/s/2166754189/br/143846354794-l" target="_blank">KCC website</a>.

Broadband, phone discounts are available for students and families

Thanks to scholarships from the Barton Foundation, five Barton Business students are getting a huge financial boost of $10,000 towards paying for college so they can pursue career goals after school with as little debt as possible. The scholarship program also includes a mentorship program and is funded by a generous gift from the Schmidt Foundation of Hays.

The students awarded scholarships include Jenna Dean and Andrea Orona Favela of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood, Matthew Donecker of Claflin and Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse.

Dean said this scholarship not only helps her achieve her goals but helps her entire family.

“This is amazing because my mom is a single mom, and I really want her to save up and be able to send my sister to school,” she said. “Knowing that I have this and a few other scholarships really means the world to me, so I know that she can provide for my sister.”

Donecker said the scholarship has helped him transition his educational path after an injury made him rethink the tech career he was pursuing.

“For me personally, it's definitely a blessing,” he said. “Last year, I went to tech school and kind of figured out that it wasn't really the route that I wanted to go with having another knee surgery and the impact on the body of that career … switching to go the business route at Barton and just getting that opportunity means a lot to me and I’m thankful for it.”

To qualify, applicants must be a full-time student majoring in business or marketing and attend Barton for two years. Preference is given to students in Barton County, but applications are accepted from Barton’s entire service area, which includes Ellsworth, Pawnee, Rice, Rush, Russell and Stafford Counties. Other students are given consideration after that.

Barton Foundation Director Lindsey Bogner said the students are fortunate not only for the financial benefit but for the mentorship program that is built into the scholarship. “This program is so beneficial for these young entrepreneurs because it includes time with local businesses based on the student's interest and a local nonprofit as well to give the students real-world experience in different business models,” she said. “We are just so grateful to the Schmidt Foundation for this generous gift that will help educate future business leaders.”

The Schmidt Foundation was created by Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays to contribute to the success and well-being of the communities served by Eagle Communications, which Bob owned and turned into an employee-

owned company. The Schmidt Foundation has also committed to funding these five scholarships next year to another round of five students. For more information, contact Bogner at bognerl@bartonccc.edu (620) 786-1141.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663006193829.jpeg" alt="(From left) Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse, Jenna Dean of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood Andrea Orona Favela, of Great Bend and Matthew Donecker of Claflin pose for a photo on the Barton campus." />
 <figcaption>(From left) Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse, Jenna Dean of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood Andrea Orona Favela, of Great Bend and Matthew Donecker of Claflin pose for a photo on the Barton campus.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photos by Joe VinduskaThanks to scholarships from the Barton Foundation, five Barton Business students are getting a huge financial boost of $10,000 towards paying for college so they can pursue career goals after school with as little debt as possible. The scholarship program also includes a mentorship program and is funded by a generous gift from the Schmidt Foundation of Hays.The students awarded scholarships include Jenna Dean and Andrea Orona Favela of Great Bend, Mary Dimmitt of Ellinwood, Matthew Donecker of Claflin and Ashton Waggoner of La Crosse.Dean said this scholarship not only helps her achieve her goals but helps her entire family.“This is amazing because my mom is a single mom, and I really want her to save up and be able to send my sister to school,” she said. “Knowing that I have this and a few other scholarships really means the world to me, so I know that she can provide for my sister.”Donecker said the scholarship has helped him transition his educational path after an injury made him rethink the tech career he was pursuing.“For me personally, it's definitely a blessing,” he said. “Last year, I went to tech school and kind of figured out that it wasn't really the route that I wanted to go with having another knee surgery and the impact on the body of that career … switching to go the business route at Barton and just getting that opportunity means a lot to me and I’m thankful for it.”To qualify, applicants must be a full-time student majoring in business or marketing and attend Barton for two years. Preference is given to students in Barton County, but applications are accepted from Barton’s entire service area, which includes Ellsworth, Pawnee, Rice, Rush, Russell and Stafford Counties. Other students are given consideration after that.Barton Foundation Director Lindsey Bogner said the students are fortunate not only for the financial benefit but for the mentorship program that is built into the scholarship. “This program is so beneficial for these young entrepreneurs because it includes time with local businesses based on the student's interest and a local nonprofit as well to give the students real-world experience in different business models,” she said. “We are just so grateful to the Schmidt Foundation for this generous gift that will help educate future business leaders.”The Schmidt Foundation was created by Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays to contribute to the success and well-being of the communities served by Eagle Communications, which Bob owned and turned into an employee-owned company. The Schmidt Foundation has also committed to funding these five scholarships next year to another round of five students. For more information, contact Bogner at bognerl@bartonccc.edu (620) 786-1141.

Barton Foundation awards five $10,000 scholarships to local students

At Monday's meeting, the Great Bend Recreation Commission Board approved a contract offer for Chris Umphres to become the next Executive Director of the Recreation Commission.

The three-year contract will begin Nov. 1, 2022.

Diann Henderson is retiring from the director position Oct. 31 after 40 years in the park and recreation industry.

"Chris has been in several positions with the Recreation Commission for 16 years," said Henderson. "Through that progression of skills and leadership, he's an excellent candidate for this position. We can expect big things from him. He takes his role very seriously and he's flexible. Most importantly, he enjoys recreation. He's very concerned of what recreation is in Great Bend."

Umphres currently serves as the GBRC Assistant Superintendent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663020117697.jpeg" alt="Chris Umphres (from USD 428)" />
 <figcaption>Chris Umphres (from USD 428)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt Monday's meeting, the Great Bend Recreation Commission Board approved a contract offer for Chris Umphres to become the next Executive Director of the Recreation Commission.The three-year contract will begin Nov. 1, 2022.Diann Henderson is retiring from the director position Oct. 31 after 40 years in the park and recreation industry."Chris has been in several positions with the Recreation Commission for 16 years," said Henderson. "Through that progression of skills and leadership, he's an excellent candidate for this position. We can expect big things from him. He takes his role very seriously and he's flexible. Most importantly, he enjoys recreation. He's very concerned of what recreation is in Great Bend."Umphres currently serves as the GBRC Assistant Superintendent.

Umphres named next director of Great Bend Rec

Announcement that the Conservation Awards Program will again be held in this county was received by Alicia Boor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent representing Barton County, who has been asked to serve as chairman of a committee to select candidates for awards. 

"This program is being sponsored", said Alicia, "by the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA). This year the KBA, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism are excited to announce six award categories including Energy Conservation, Water Quality, Water Conservation, Soil Conservation, Windbreaks, and Wildlife Habitat.” 

The purpose of this program is to stimulate a greater interest in the conservation of the agricultural and natural resources of Kansas by giving recognition to those farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. Last year 197 awards were made to Kansas producers and landowners for their efforts. 

Nominations can be made by any person in the county. They should be sent to the Alicia Boor, Cottonwood District at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu by October 7, 2021. Please visit the following K-State Research and Extension website for more information: http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension

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>Announcement that the Conservation Awards Program will again be held in this county was received by Alicia Boor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent representing Barton County, who has been asked to serve as chairman of a committee to select candidates for awards. "This program is being sponsored", said Alicia, "by the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA). This year the KBA, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism are excited to announce six award categories including Energy Conservation, Water Quality, Water Conservation, Soil Conservation, Windbreaks, and Wildlife Habitat.” The purpose of this program is to stimulate a greater interest in the conservation of the agricultural and natural resources of Kansas by giving recognition to those farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. Last year 197 awards were made to Kansas producers and landowners for their efforts. Nominations can be made by any person in the county. They should be sent to the Alicia Boor, Cottonwood District at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu by October 7, 2021. Please visit the following K-State Research and Extension website for more information: http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extensionAlicia 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.

BOOR: Conservation Awards Program to be held in Barton Co.

For nearly three decades, the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation has carried on the tradition of hosting an Annual Benefit – Golf Tournament, Dinner, and Auction in support of Clara Barton Medical Center. Although the last few years have been challenging navigating COVID, this event continues to be a vital form of support for Clara Barton and their various projects. This year, Clara Barton supporters and the surrounding communities rallied together, “Making a Real Impact” and raising $79,750 in support of the MRI Square Foot Campaign.

On Friday, June 17th the event kicked off at 7 AM with the golf tournament at Lake Barton Golf Course. A record turnout of 36 teams participated in this year’s tournament, golfing in three flights for the four-man scramble. The golfers also participated in many competitions throughout the day, including a hole-in-one contest, sponsored by Ehler Chevrolet Co., as well as eight-hole contests sponsored by Cardinal Pharmacy.

The benefit event then continued on Saturday, June 18th at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Hoisington with a dinner, sponsored by Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless, and both a live and silent online auction – allowing those in attendance to have exclusive access to bid on certain special packages, while allowing anyone, anywhere to participate and bid on online silent auction items. Last year’s auction had to be entirely online, raising $24,901 to expand the pharmacy and increase safety and efficiency for all involved. Whereas this year, a good-sized crowd gathered for a night full of food, drinks, and fun, raising $35,525 for the MRI Square Foot campaign.

“It was such a relief to finally be able to celebrate with everyone in person this year, as well as continuing with an online auction option,” said Michelle Moshier, Foundation Director. “We are so thankful for all who supported and joined the Foundation, making a real impact and providing much-needed funding to bring MRI in-house and centralize all imaging services in one convenient location at Clara Barton Medical Center.”

Over the last several years, Clara Barton Medical Center has acquired several state-of-the-art diagnostic machines – such as DEXA, 3D Mammography, a new CT, ultrasound, mobile x-ray, and the latest acquisition, MRI - to provide their patients with a top-notch imaging center close to home. To offset the financial burden of the current expansion, the foundation launched the MRI Square Foot Campaign earlier this year, turning to Clara Barton supporters to help fund the space needed to adequately house this equipment and create the best imaging center in its service area.

The 29th Annual Benefit event played a crucial role in funding the space to house MRI. The $79,750 in proceeds put the foundation at 91% ($255,363 raised) of their Square Foot Campaign – with a goal of $279,250. In this campaign, as a symbolic representation of the costs associated with building the MRI space (1,117 sq. ft.), 1 square foot = $250, meaning another $24,000 (or 96 sq. ft.) is needed to complete the goal.

“Now, 29 years later, we understand more than ever just how important this event is for our organization," said Moshier. "The amount of participation and financial support we’ve received is truly touching and we are very thankful we are able to continue our vision of quality patient care.”

MRI services will be available in-house after the expansion is complete and patients can look forward to several benefits including:

· Patient Privacy - secure and private locker space for patients to get ready and store belongings

· Shorter Scan Times - advanced software increases image quality and reduces scan time

· Larger Opening - 70 cm bore – the opening is 4 inches wider, increasing patient comfort

· Feet-first Imaging - many images can be performed with the patient going into the MRI fee-first

· Central Location - imaging services will be in one central location next to ancillary services, improving patient flow

· Enhanced Space - MRI space will nearly triple to 1,117 square feet, compared to the cramped MRI truck

· Free Breathing Techniques - many of the exams can be performed without the need for patients to hold their breath

With your help, expanding and enhancing Clara Barton’s diagnostic services will allow their organization to better meet the ever-growing needs of the community. After the expansion, the imaging center will cover a total of 5,680 square feet and offer CT, digital radiography, 3D mammography, MRI, interventional radiography, DEXA, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine.

To learn more, view the YouTube video about the project at https://youtu.be/XJVxGnJfygE, or if you would like to support the Foundation and contribute to the MRI Square Foot Campaign visit www.clarabartonhospital.com/donate. Donors who contribute $500 or more will be recognized on a new donor plaque that will be located near the imaging wing. If you have questions about this campaign, call the foundation office at 620-292-0814.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662993635052.jpeg" alt="Clara Barton Foundation continues to Make a Real Impact with benefit event proceeds of $79,750 closing the gap in the MRI Square Foot Campaign. Now needing $24,000 for goal completion, this campaign is helping fund the space to house MRI in the newly constructed imaging wing patients started using after Labor Day." />
 <figcaption>Clara Barton Foundation continues to Make a Real Impact with benefit event proceeds of $79,750 closing the gap in the MRI Square Foot Campaign. Now needing $24,000 for goal completion, this campaign is helping fund the space to house MRI in the newly constructed imaging wing patients started using after Labor Day.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFor nearly three decades, the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation has carried on the tradition of hosting an Annual Benefit – Golf Tournament, Dinner, and Auction in support of Clara Barton Medical Center. Although the last few years have been challenging navigating COVID, this event continues to be a vital form of support for Clara Barton and their various projects. This year, Clara Barton supporters and the surrounding communities rallied together, “Making a Real Impact” and raising $79,750 in support of the MRI Square Foot Campaign.On Friday, June 17th the event kicked off at 7 AM with the golf tournament at Lake Barton Golf Course. A record turnout of 36 teams participated in this year’s tournament, golfing in three flights for the four-man scramble. The golfers also participated in many competitions throughout the day, including a hole-in-one contest, sponsored by Ehler Chevrolet Co., as well as eight-hole contests sponsored by Cardinal Pharmacy.The benefit event then continued on Saturday, June 18th at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Hoisington with a dinner, sponsored by Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless, and both a live and silent online auction – allowing those in attendance to have exclusive access to bid on certain special packages, while allowing anyone, anywhere to participate and bid on online silent auction items. Last year’s auction had to be entirely online, raising $24,901 to expand the pharmacy and increase safety and efficiency for all involved. Whereas this year, a good-sized crowd gathered for a night full of food, drinks, and fun, raising $35,525 for the MRI Square Foot campaign.“It was such a relief to finally be able to celebrate with everyone in person this year, as well as continuing with an online auction option,” said Michelle Moshier, Foundation Director. “We are so thankful for all who supported and joined the Foundation, making a real impact and providing much-needed funding to bring MRI in-house and centralize all imaging services in one convenient location at Clara Barton Medical Center.”Over the last several years, Clara Barton Medical Center has acquired several state-of-the-art diagnostic machines – such as DEXA, 3D Mammography, a new CT, ultrasound, mobile x-ray, and the latest acquisition, MRI - to provide their patients with a top-notch imaging center close to home. To offset the financial burden of the current expansion, the foundation launched the MRI Square Foot Campaign earlier this year, turning to Clara Barton supporters to help fund the space needed to adequately house this equipment and create the best imaging center in its service area.The 29th Annual Benefit event played a crucial role in funding the space to house MRI. The $79,750 in proceeds put the foundation at 91% ($255,363 raised) of their Square Foot Campaign – with a goal of $279,250. In this campaign, as a symbolic representation of the costs associated with building the MRI space (1,117 sq. ft.), 1 square foot = $250, meaning another $24,000 (or 96 sq. ft.) is needed to complete the goal.“Now, 29 years later, we understand more than ever just how important this event is for our organization," said Moshier. "The amount of participation and financial support we’ve received is truly touching and we are very thankful we are able to continue our vision of quality patient care.”MRI services will be available in-house after the expansion is complete and patients can look forward to several benefits including:· Patient Privacy - secure and private locker space for patients to get ready and store belongings· Shorter Scan Times - advanced software increases image quality and reduces scan time· Larger Opening - 70 cm bore – the opening is 4 inches wider, increasing patient comfort· Feet-first Imaging - many images can be performed with the patient going into the MRI fee-first· Central Location - imaging services will be in one central location next to ancillary services, improving patient flow· Enhanced Space - MRI space will nearly triple to 1,117 square feet, compared to the cramped MRI truck· Free Breathing Techniques - many of the exams can be performed without the need for patients to hold their breathWith your help, expanding and enhancing Clara Barton’s diagnostic services will allow their organization to better meet the ever-growing needs of the community. After the expansion, the imaging center will cover a total of 5,680 square feet and offer CT, digital radiography, 3D mammography, MRI, interventional radiography, DEXA, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine.To learn more, view the YouTube video about the project at https://youtu.be/XJVxGnJfygE, or if you would like to support the Foundation and contribute to the MRI Square Foot Campaign visit www.clarabartonhospital.com/donate. Donors who contribute $500 or more will be recognized on a new donor plaque that will be located near the imaging wing. If you have questions about this campaign, call the foundation office at 620-292-0814.

Clara Barton benefit events help close gap of MRI campaign goal

USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday, Sept. 12 - 5 p.m. District Education Center, 201 S. Patton Road

1. Call to Order of RNR Hearing / Roll Call

2. Recognition of Visitors at the Hearing

3. Approval of Revenue Neutral Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp;The local Board of Education must approve by resolution to exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for financing the annual budget for 2022-2023. Mr. Thexton will provide details of the RNR and recommend approval.

BUDGET HEARING &nbsp; &nbsp;Immediately following the Revenue Neutral Hearing

1. Call to Order of Budget Hearing

2. Recognition of Visitors at the Budget Hearing

3. Review of District Needs Assessment

4. Budget Hearing &nbsp; &nbsp;There will be a summative review of USD 428’s 2022-2023 budget, as published in the Tribune on 8/17/22. The administration recommends approval/adoption of the FY 2022-2023 budget.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING &nbsp; &nbsp;September 12, 2022 Immediately following the Budget Hearing

1.4 Request to Speak Reminder &nbsp; &nbsp;• Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent on citizen participation.

2. RECOGNITIONS / ACHIEVEMENTS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• R.O.S.E. Award &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Board of Education’s continuing efforts to recognize individuals or groups for their services to the school district, the R.O.S.E. (Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education) Award was created. The most current R.O.S.E. award recipients are Charlie Bentley, Rosalinda Loera, and Shelby Kern.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In July, USD 428 was honored to provide lodging for a world champion drum and bugle corp, the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corp from Concord, California as they were en route to Broken Arrow, OK, for an international competition. During an overnight pit stop in Great Bend, they stayed in the GBHS Panther Athletic Center gym and practiced on football field. This event could not have happened without the dedication of multiple people. Two individuals, however, were repeatedly mentioned as employees who planned, answered questions, and helped with whatever was needed to ensure the corp had what they needed. Charlie Bentley, GBHS Head Custodian, and custodian Linda Loera showed commitment and thoughtfulness for this event as they do in their daily work throughout the year. The Board of Education applauds Charlie and Linda for their positive attitudes and hard work ethic. Thank you for representing USD 428 so well.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Recently, Shelby Kern, a Teacher Assistant at Jefferson Elementary, was at the right place at the right time visiting a classroom when she noticed a student having difficulty breathing. Shelby quickly sprung into action to administer the Heimlich maneuver and quickly dislodged an obstruction in the students' airway so that the student could breathe easily again. When asked about the incident, Kern said, "I was just doing my job. My natural instincts kicked in, and I was able to help out. We are just thankful that the student is alright." Thank you, Shelby, for your quick response and service to our students!

3. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Members’ Comments &nbsp; &nbsp;• USD 428 Education Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp;• Written Communications / Correspondence

4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of 2022-2023 LPP Family Handbook &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The proposed 2022-2023 Little Panthers Preschool Family handbook was presented as a first reading in July for review. The administration requests approval of the proposed LPP handbook.

5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Recruit/Hire and Employee Management Software &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Tonya Miller, Director of HR, will present information on the consideration of a change from the district’s current recruiting software to Frontline Recruit and Hire, as well as the addition of Frontline Central, an employee management software. The two interfaced systems would allow seamless recruiting, hiring, and onboarding of new employees to reduce workflow redundancy in the HR department.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff salaries is required. The 2022-2023 application amounts to $1,073,286 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($24,041 higher than the prior-year) and $40,174 for ECH ($840 lower than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Approval of Workers Compensation Audited Adjustmen &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The annual gross Workers' Compensation premium through KASB is based on estimated payroll. Numbers are then audited and adjusted at the end of each year according to the actual payroll. The audited numbers for July 2021 through June 2022 reflect a balance due of $9,074.00; therefore, the administration recommends approval to pay the balance due.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Approval of Site Council Members &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Learning center principals submitted names of their schools' recommended 2022-2023 Site Council members. The administration recommends approval. Questions regarding members on any of the Site Councils should be directed to Mr. Thexton prior to the meeting.&nbsp;

6. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT / CURRICULUM REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Student Immunizations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Student immunizations are required to be updated by October 1. School nurses will monitor student immunization records and relay information to the principals to enforce the policy. Parents always have the right to exempt their children from immunizations. At this point, COVID is not a required immunization, similar to the flu or other such vaccines.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. New Teacher Mentor Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USD 428 has been mentoring new teachers for two years over the past several years. First-year teachers and their assigned mentors meet weekly. Second-year teachers have the same mentor and meet every two weeks. Experienced teachers new to the district are assigned to an Ambassador who will help them adjust to a new building at the beginning of the school year.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Professional Development classes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; New teachers must complete Instructional Model each year within the first two years of their teaching contract with USD 428.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Capturing Kids Hearts &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; New USD 428 teachers received Capturing Kids Hearts inservice training in August. The Capturing Kids Hearts program builds better relationships between teachers and students. Stronger relationships help teachers help students who have experienced or are experiencing trauma. Mrs. Reiser will provide an update on the progress of the program implemented in all buildings since 2021.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. MTSS Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USD 428 MultiTiered System of Supports (MTSS) continues to be a fundamental way to identify student needs and the appropriate interventions for these needs. Many potential problems are found early because of the benchmarking at each grade level three times a year. MTSS in Math, Reading, and Behavior gives our teachers and buildings strategies to meet the needs of our students.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Personnel Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; All teaching positions have been filled in some manner. The administration continues to provide teachers with tools and resources to help them become stronger, more effective educators. Substitute teachers are still needed and appreciated.

&nbsp; &nbsp;G. Curriculum Meetings &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Curriculum Steering Committee: 9/6/22 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Professional Development Council (PDC): 8/15/22, next meeting 9/12/22

7. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Legislative Post Audit / IT &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Enrollment Numbers Update &nbsp; &nbsp;C. School Open Houses &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Suicide Prevention Month and Week- September 4-10, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Kansas Teacher of the Year Banquet- September 24, 2022, in Wichita, KS &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Fire Safety and Awareness Week, October 9-15, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape!” &nbsp; &nbsp;G. FEMA Update regarding the 12/15/21 wind storm &nbsp; &nbsp;H. Approval of Grants / Contributions (Attachment 7,H)

9. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes [August 8, 2022] (Attachment 9,A) &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report

10. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. No action is expected after the session. “Madam President, I move that the Board go into executive session to discuss potential district properties with the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA.

11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;•BOE Luncheon Meeting: at noon on September 29, 2022 (Park Elementary School) &nbsp; &nbsp;•Fall Homecoming: on October 7, 2022, with Liberal, parade at 3:00 p.m &nbsp; &nbsp;•Annual KASB Convention: on November 11-13, 2022, in Wichita, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594824975671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday, Sept. 12 - 5 p.m. District Education Center, 201 S. Patton RoadREVENUE NEUTRAL HEARING1. Call to Order of RNR Hearing / Roll Call2. Recognition of Visitors at the Hearing3. Approval of Revenue Neutral Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp;The local Board of Education must approve by resolution to exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for financing the annual budget for 2022-2023. Mr. Thexton will provide details of the RNR and recommend approval.4. Adjournment of Budget HearingBUDGET HEARING &nbsp; &nbsp;Immediately following the Revenue Neutral Hearing1. Call to Order of Budget Hearing2. Recognition of Visitors at the Budget Hearing3. Review of District Needs Assessment4. Budget Hearing &nbsp; &nbsp;There will be a summative review of USD 428’s 2022-2023 budget, as published in the Tribune on 8/17/22. The administration recommends approval/adoption of the FY 2022-2023 budget.5. Adjournment of Budget HearingBOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING &nbsp; &nbsp;September 12, 2022 Immediately following the Budget Hearing1. CALL TO ORDER1.1 Roll Call1.2 Adoption of Agenda1.3 Recognition of Visitors1.4 Request to Speak Reminder &nbsp; &nbsp;• Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent on citizen participation.1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum2. RECOGNITIONS / ACHIEVEMENTS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• R.O.S.E. Award &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Board of Education’s continuing efforts to recognize individuals or groups for their services to the school district, the R.O.S.E. (Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education) Award was created. The most current R.O.S.E. award recipients are Charlie Bentley, Rosalinda Loera, and Shelby Kern. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In July, USD 428 was honored to provide lodging for a world champion drum and bugle corp, the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corp from Concord, California as they were en route to Broken Arrow, OK, for an international competition. During an overnight pit stop in Great Bend, they stayed in the GBHS Panther Athletic Center gym and practiced on football field. This event could not have happened without the dedication of multiple people. Two individuals, however, were repeatedly mentioned as employees who planned, answered questions, and helped with whatever was needed to ensure the corp had what they needed. Charlie Bentley, GBHS Head Custodian, and custodian Linda Loera showed commitment and thoughtfulness for this event as they do in their daily work throughout the year. The Board of Education applauds Charlie and Linda for their positive attitudes and hard work ethic. Thank you for representing USD 428 so well.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Recently, Shelby Kern, a Teacher Assistant at Jefferson Elementary, was at the right place at the right time visiting a classroom when she noticed a student having difficulty breathing. Shelby quickly sprung into action to administer the Heimlich maneuver and quickly dislodged an obstruction in the students' airway so that the student could breathe easily again. When asked about the incident, Kern said, "I was just doing my job. My natural instincts kicked in, and I was able to help out. We are just thankful that the student is alright." Thank you, Shelby, for your quick response and service to our students!3. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Members’ Comments &nbsp; &nbsp;• USD 428 Education Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp;• Written Communications / Correspondence4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of 2022-2023 LPP Family Handbook &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The proposed 2022-2023 Little Panthers Preschool Family handbook was presented as a first reading in July for review. The administration requests approval of the proposed LPP handbook.5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Recruit/Hire and Employee Management Software &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Tonya Miller, Director of HR, will present information on the consideration of a change from the district’s current recruiting software to Frontline Recruit and Hire, as well as the addition of Frontline Central, an employee management software. The two interfaced systems would allow seamless recruiting, hiring, and onboarding of new employees to reduce workflow redundancy in the HR department.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff salaries is required. The 2022-2023 application amounts to $1,073,286 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($24,041 higher than the prior-year) and $40,174 for ECH ($840 lower than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Approval of Workers Compensation Audited Adjustmen &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The annual gross Workers' Compensation premium through KASB is based on estimated payroll. Numbers are then audited and adjusted at the end of each year according to the actual payroll. The audited numbers for July 2021 through June 2022 reflect a balance due of $9,074.00; therefore, the administration recommends approval to pay the balance due.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Approval of Site Council Members &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Learning center principals submitted names of their schools' recommended 2022-2023 Site Council members. The administration recommends approval. Questions regarding members on any of the Site Councils should be directed to Mr. Thexton prior to the meeting.&nbsp;6. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT / CURRICULUM REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Student Immunizations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Student immunizations are required to be updated by October 1. School nurses will monitor student immunization records and relay information to the principals to enforce the policy. Parents always have the right to exempt their children from immunizations. At this point, COVID is not a required immunization, similar to the flu or other such vaccines.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. New Teacher Mentor Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USD 428 has been mentoring new teachers for two years over the past several years. First-year teachers and their assigned mentors meet weekly. Second-year teachers have the same mentor and meet every two weeks. Experienced teachers new to the district are assigned to an Ambassador who will help them adjust to a new building at the beginning of the school year.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Professional Development classes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; New teachers must complete Instructional Model each year within the first two years of their teaching contract with USD 428.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Capturing Kids Hearts &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; New USD 428 teachers received Capturing Kids Hearts inservice training in August. The Capturing Kids Hearts program builds better relationships between teachers and students. Stronger relationships help teachers help students who have experienced or are experiencing trauma. Mrs. Reiser will provide an update on the progress of the program implemented in all buildings since 2021.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. MTSS Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USD 428 MultiTiered System of Supports (MTSS) continues to be a fundamental way to identify student needs and the appropriate interventions for these needs. Many potential problems are found early because of the benchmarking at each grade level three times a year. MTSS in Math, Reading, and Behavior gives our teachers and buildings strategies to meet the needs of our students.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Personnel Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; All teaching positions have been filled in some manner. The administration continues to provide teachers with tools and resources to help them become stronger, more effective educators. Substitute teachers are still needed and appreciated.&nbsp; &nbsp;G. Curriculum Meetings &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Curriculum Steering Committee: 9/6/22 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Professional Development Council (PDC): 8/15/22, next meeting 9/12/227. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Legislative Post Audit / IT &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Enrollment Numbers Update &nbsp; &nbsp;C. School Open Houses &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Suicide Prevention Month and Week- September 4-10, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Kansas Teacher of the Year Banquet- September 24, 2022, in Wichita, KS &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Fire Safety and Awareness Week, October 9-15, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape!” &nbsp; &nbsp;G. FEMA Update regarding the 12/15/21 wind storm &nbsp; &nbsp;H. Approval of Grants / Contributions (Attachment 7,H)8. FINANCIAL PRESENTATION9. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes [August 8, 2022] (Attachment 9,A) &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report10. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. No action is expected after the session. “Madam President, I move that the Board go into executive session to discuss potential district properties with the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA.11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;•BOE Luncheon Meeting: at noon on September 29, 2022 (Park Elementary School) &nbsp; &nbsp;•Fall Homecoming: on October 7, 2022, with Liberal, parade at 3:00 p.m &nbsp; &nbsp;•Annual KASB Convention: on November 11-13, 2022, in Wichita, KS12. ADJOURNMENT

USD 428 school board meeting agenda (9/12)

A gathering at the intersection of 12th Street and Baker Avenue Monday morning heard remarks from city officials and contractors as the
ceremonial groundbreaking took place for the nearly $8.9 million Great Bend
police station to be constructed.

"To me it's a dream come true," said Great Bend Mayor Cody Schmidt. "The men and women in blue, that serve us everyday, thank you and this is for you." 
 
City council members, city staff, architects and construction representatives
participated in the groundbreaking for the 20,100 square-foot facility that is
scheduled to be finished by next August. 
 
The Great Bend Municipal Court will also be housed at the new facility, and
Judge Chuck Pike thanked those involved that created the progress. 
 
"If you really want to do something, you'll find a way," said Pike. "If you don't, you'll find an excuse. I want to recognize all of those people, in a time where excuses could have abounded everywhere, chose to make this happen."

A .10% sales tax increase approved by voters last November will go toward bond
debt for the police station with a 20-year sunset. Through the sales tax
revenue and savings, the city exceeded the budget by $902,667. Through SPARKS
funds, insurance proceeds and ARPA interest, the city will make up the difference.

One of the suggestions for a cost savings was to leave the municipal courtroom at its current location on Williams Street. Eliminating the courtroom from the design would have saved $1.2 million.

"The city council understood we have one opportunity to do this project right," said Francis. "I'd like to say thank you to them for having the courage to make a vote like that, understanding the long-term ramifications and trusting myself and my team that we're providing them with good information."

The current police station was built in 1938. GLMV Architecture
Managing Vice President Paul Michell said the new structure will nearly triple
the size of the department building. 
 
"It's really no secret the existing building, just a couple of blocks away, has been a hindrance to public safety, municipal court operations over the years," said Michell. "It's short on space, function, it has safety concerns and the building is deteriorating. These buildings are one of the most complex and most expensive tools available to public safety professionals." 
 
There were 96 bids received to work on the construction of the justice center,
and eight local contractors are included in the project. Construction is
expected to start this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663004502375.jpeg" alt="City council members, city officials, architects and contractor representatives took part in the groundbreaking ceremony Monday, Sept. 12, 2022 for the new justice center in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>City council members, city officials, architects and contractor representatives took part in the groundbreaking ceremony Monday, Sept. 12, 2022 for the new justice center in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA gathering at the intersection of 12th Street and Baker Avenue Monday morning heard remarks from city officials and contractors as the
ceremonial groundbreaking took place for the nearly $8.9 million Great Bend
police station to be constructed. "To me it's a dream come true," said Great Bend Mayor Cody Schmidt. "The men and women in blue, that serve us everyday, thank you and this is for you." 
 
City council members, city staff, architects and construction representatives
participated in the groundbreaking for the 20,100 square-foot facility that is
scheduled to be finished by next August. 
 
The Great Bend Municipal Court will also be housed at the new facility, and
Judge Chuck Pike thanked those involved that created the progress. 
 
"If you really want to do something, you'll find a way," said Pike. "If you don't, you'll find an excuse. I want to recognize all of those people, in a time where excuses could have abounded everywhere, chose to make this happen."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendpd%2Fvideos%2F2090756454464236%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>A .10% sales tax increase approved by voters last November will go toward bond
debt for the police station with a 20-year sunset. Through the sales tax
revenue and savings, the city exceeded the budget by $902,667. Through SPARKS
funds, insurance proceeds and ARPA interest, the city will make up the difference.One of the suggestions for a cost savings was to leave the municipal courtroom at its current location on Williams Street. Eliminating the courtroom from the design would have saved $1.2 million."The city council understood we have one opportunity to do this project right," said Francis. "I'd like to say thank you to them for having the courage to make a vote like that, understanding the long-term ramifications and trusting myself and my team that we're providing them with good information."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663005495652.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The current police station was built in 1938. GLMV Architecture
Managing Vice President Paul Michell said the new structure will nearly triple
the size of the department building. 
 
"It's really no secret the existing building, just a couple of blocks away, has been a hindrance to public safety, municipal court operations over the years," said Michell. "It's short on space, function, it has safety concerns and the building is deteriorating. These buildings are one of the most complex and most expensive tools available to public safety professionals." 
 
There were 96 bids received to work on the construction of the justice center,
and eight local contractors are included in the project. Construction is
expected to start this week.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/92lfGJJy-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Img 4343" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>

🎥Ground broken…construction to start on new Great Bend police station

We're Less Than 30 Days Out from Deadline! Comment to&nbsp;Protect Your Access to Atrazine 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=800cecb536&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. Join us in the fight.&nbsp; Time is Running Out! Apply Now for Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum The United&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff Program is accepting applications for&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=088c74d3d1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum</a>&nbsp;Class VI, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;leaders. During the 14-month leadership program, class members will have the opportunity to experience various aspects of the&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;industry in addition to personal development and networking opportunities.&nbsp;Applications are available&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ed72160065&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and are due by 5:00 pm CST on September 23.&nbsp;To learn more about Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c6b37b832b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Enter the Sorghum Yield Contest Today The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest entry deadline is approaching. Through the contest, sorghum farmers have the opportunity to showcase their sorghum crop and compete with growers across the U.S. Winners have the opportunity to be recognized at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida. The deadline to enter is Oct. 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5f87fddd6c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Learn more at SorghumGrowers.com/yieldcontest</a>. Sorghum Grower&nbsp;Spotlight:&nbsp;Sustainability Metrics Provide An Opportunity For Sorghum Growth In Food Products Sustainability field-level data collection is leading to the increased introduction of sorghum in food products and marketability. Learn how one company is using the natural, sustainable advantages of sorghum to market data that sells.&nbsp;Read more from the Summer issue of&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7c9017530f&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">S</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=26c7c88d02&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">orghum Grower</a>&nbsp;magazine&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e0425ab257&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">online</a>. POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE UPDATES

Congressional Leaders Working on Stopgap Funding Bill&nbsp; With fiscal year 2022 appropriations funding set to expire after September 30, lawmakers are crafting a stopgap funding bill, known as a Continuing Resolution (CR), to keep government running until Dec. 16 after which Congress will either complete an omnibus appropriations bill or punt the matter into the new year with another short-term CR. The House may vote on the CR as early as next week. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=91f15dd521&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. WH CR Request Includes $1.5 Billion for Agriculture Disaster Aid, But Lawmakers Eye End of Year Omnibus for Larger Agriculture Package The Biden Administration made public its&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5fb85c2677&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">emergency funding request</a>&nbsp;to Congress as the latter crafts&nbsp;a&nbsp;CR to fund the government into mid-December. In addition to aid to Ukraine and further COVID relief funding, the request includes $1.5 billion to provide direct payments to farmers and ranchers who have lost crops and livestock. In August, Reps. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation to generally extend the current Emergency Relief Program to cover calendar year 2022 losses.&nbsp;Extending ERP to 2022 has generally met with a favorable response from policymakers but key lawmakers prefer to address agriculture disaster in the context of an end of the year omnibus appropriations bill rather than in the CR and the general reaction to the Administration’s request is that $1.5 billion is probably insufficient to meet the needs, especially given that $10 billion was provided to cover calendar years 2020 and 2021.&nbsp;Some lawmakers also view an end of the year approach as a potential opportunity to strengthen the farm safety net on a more permanent basis as was accomplished in the appropriations bill preceding the 2018 Farm Bill where the shortcomings in the safety net for cotton and dairy was addressed, making it easier for Congress to pass what would otherwise be a flat-budget Farm Bill. Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6ed11ac209&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; Farm Groups Want to Be Heard at White House Hunger Conference&nbsp; Agricultural groups are lobbying for a “seat at the table” at the upcoming White House Hunger and Nutrition Conference, citing the vital role that farmers play in the food supply chain. “Agriculture was a key partner in the 1969 White House Conference on Food, Nutrition, and Health — we again stand ready to work with government and private sector partners to identify and act on steps that can lead to a healthier America in 2030,” a dozen groups, including National Sorghum Producers, said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a53e150317&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;Thursday to President Joe Biden.&nbsp; Senate Finance Committee Advances McKalip Nomination as USTR Chief Agriculture Negotiator The Senate Finance Committee voted on Wednesday to approve the nomination of Mr. Doug McKalip as the Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Following the vote Ambassador Katharine Tai released the following statement, “Given the importance of this position, I urge the United States Senate to confirm Doug as soon as possible so he can get to work on behalf of American agricultural producers, workers, and businesses.” Read Tai’s full statement&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fdf09583e6&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Rail Unions, Carriers Race Deadline Several rail unions and carriers will be meeting with the National Mediation Board this week to discuss recommendations issued by a Presidential Emergency Board last month to resolve a contract dispute. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh attended a meeting with both sides Wednesday, as seven of the 12 unions have not reached a tentative agreement based on the recommendations. Rail unions and carriers will have until September 16 to accept or reject the plan from the emergency board. Meanwhile, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) urged Congress to intervene, if necessary, to prevent any interruptions of rail service that could occur if negotiations fail between rail carriers and labor groups. A train strike could involve 115,000 rail workers and stall as many as 7,000 trains in the midst of harvest. Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=3ab52efd39&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Biofuels Industry Pushes Back Against False Anti-Ethanol Claims&nbsp; Following the Thursday publication of a Reuters&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=11cd3b5f7b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;claiming “ethanol plants produce more than double the climate-damaging pollution, per gallon of fuel production capacity, than the nation’s oil refineries”, the Renewable Fuels Association responded stating, “To truly understand the climate impacts of transportation fuels, you have to look at the emissions associated with every step in the production process. Narrowly focusing on just one piece of the carbon lifecycle is inappropriate, misleading, and misses the forest for the trees. When all of the energy inputs and emissions related to producing corn ethanol are properly considered from beginning to end, it is clear that the fuel has a lifecycle carbon intensity that is 40-50% lower than gasoline. The science is clear that ethanol offers a significant and immediate carbon savings compared to petroleum.” Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ce5b4ef019&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House Subcommittee Mulls Need to Regulate Kids Working on the Farm&nbsp; Farmworker advocates argued that Congress needs to tighten labor standards to protect young farmworkers from accidents and exposure to harmful chemicals during a Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=60f5721902&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">House Education and Labor Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing</a>. Ms. Kristi Boswell, a witness and adviser to former Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue on labor issues, pushed back against calls for increased regulation saying learning how to work on a farm is good for kids. Boswell warned against giving the Labor Department new authority to regulate farms. &nbsp; ERP Payments Reach $6.59B&nbsp; Emergency Relief Program (ERP) payments have moved up to $6.59 billion as of September 5, with $5.68 billion in payments to non-specialty crop producers and $904 million to specialty crop farmers that suffered losses in 2020 or 2021. Access USDA’s dashboard&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=150397e1a2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. USDA Unveils Nutrient Management Initiative USDA will direct additional funds toward voluntary nutrient management projects on the farm and streamline the process of applying for funding. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said nutrient management would "help farmers address local resource concerns and global food security issues while also improving their bottom line." The Natural Resources Conservation Service also announced a streamlined funding opportunity for up to $40 million in nutrient management grants through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. In addition, USDA announced an outreach campaign focused on the benefits of nutrient management. It said farmers could save an average of $30 per acre through steps such as reducing nitrogen loss and minimizing nutrient runoff. Read the press release&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fe45fa3510&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

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=fabe34390d&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 Crop Update By September 4, ninety-two percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, 6 percentage points behind last year and 5 points behind the 5-year average. Sixty-two percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was at or beyond the coloring stage, nine percentage points behind last year and 5 points behind average. By September 4, twenty-eight percent of the sorghum acreage was mature, 3 percentage points behind last year and 1 point behind average. Eighty percent of Texas’ sorghum acreage was mature by September 4, three percentage points ahead of last year and 4 points ahead of average. Twenty percent of the 2022 sorghum acreage had been harvested by September 4, one percentage point ahead of last year but 1 point behind average. Twenty-one percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but 36 percentage points below the same time last year. 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=776ddfc978&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=8e62caa605&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Drought in the Lone Star State: An update on sorghum and cotton crops</a>&nbsp;- RFD-TV <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9f6596a6c0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Farm groups want to be heard at White House hunger conference</a>&nbsp;- Agri-Pulse

Upcoming Events September 13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=13634e1735&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Akron USDA-ARS Station - Akron, Colorado September 14&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d1f28fa4e1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">West Texas Agricultural Chemicals Institute Annual Meeting</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Lubbock, Texas September 15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=701215be08&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Plainsman Research Center - Walsh, Colorado September 20&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4c99fc6d8c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Field Site north of Brandon - Sheridan Lake, Colorado October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7950096a57&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=eddde68027&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=4b802ee3b7&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=38e336138e&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=e42237e9b6&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 (Updated!)&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=7dcefdcf77&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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579197583316.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>We're Less Than 30 Days Out from Deadline! Comment to&nbsp;Protect Your Access to Atrazine 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=800cecb536&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. Join us in the fight.&nbsp; Time is Running Out! Apply Now for Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum The United&nbsp;Sorghum&nbsp;Checkoff Program is accepting applications for&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=088c74d3d1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum</a>&nbsp;Class VI, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;leaders. During the 14-month leadership program, class members will have the opportunity to experience various aspects of the&nbsp;sorghum&nbsp;industry in addition to personal development and networking opportunities.&nbsp;Applications are available&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ed72160065&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and are due by 5:00 pm CST on September 23.&nbsp;To learn more about Leadership&nbsp;Sorghum, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c6b37b832b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Enter the Sorghum Yield Contest Today The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest entry deadline is approaching. Through the contest, sorghum farmers have the opportunity to showcase their sorghum crop and compete with growers across the U.S. Winners have the opportunity to be recognized at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida. The deadline to enter is Oct. 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5f87fddd6c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Learn more at SorghumGrowers.com/yieldcontest</a>. Sorghum Grower&nbsp;Spotlight:&nbsp;Sustainability Metrics Provide An Opportunity For Sorghum Growth In Food Products Sustainability field-level data collection is leading to the increased introduction of sorghum in food products and marketability. Learn how one company is using the natural, sustainable advantages of sorghum to market data that sells.&nbsp;Read more from the Summer issue of&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7c9017530f&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">S</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=26c7c88d02&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">orghum Grower</a>&nbsp;magazine&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e0425ab257&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">online</a>. POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE UPDATESCongressional Leaders Working on Stopgap Funding Bill&nbsp; With fiscal year 2022 appropriations funding set to expire after September 30, lawmakers are crafting a stopgap funding bill, known as a Continuing Resolution (CR), to keep government running until Dec. 16 after which Congress will either complete an omnibus appropriations bill or punt the matter into the new year with another short-term CR. The House may vote on the CR as early as next week. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=91f15dd521&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. WH CR Request Includes $1.5 Billion for Agriculture Disaster Aid, But Lawmakers Eye End of Year Omnibus for Larger Agriculture Package The Biden Administration made public its&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5fb85c2677&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">emergency funding request</a>&nbsp;to Congress as the latter crafts&nbsp;a&nbsp;CR to fund the government into mid-December. In addition to aid to Ukraine and further COVID relief funding, the request includes $1.5 billion to provide direct payments to farmers and ranchers who have lost crops and livestock. In August, Reps. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation to generally extend the current Emergency Relief Program to cover calendar year 2022 losses.&nbsp;Extending ERP to 2022 has generally met with a favorable response from policymakers but key lawmakers prefer to address agriculture disaster in the context of an end of the year omnibus appropriations bill rather than in the CR and the general reaction to the Administration’s request is that $1.5 billion is probably insufficient to meet the needs, especially given that $10 billion was provided to cover calendar years 2020 and 2021.&nbsp;Some lawmakers also view an end of the year approach as a potential opportunity to strengthen the farm safety net on a more permanent basis as was accomplished in the appropriations bill preceding the 2018 Farm Bill where the shortcomings in the safety net for cotton and dairy was addressed, making it easier for Congress to pass what would otherwise be a flat-budget Farm Bill. Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6ed11ac209&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp; Farm Groups Want to Be Heard at White House Hunger Conference&nbsp; Agricultural groups are lobbying for a “seat at the table” at the upcoming White House Hunger and Nutrition Conference, citing the vital role that farmers play in the food supply chain. “Agriculture was a key partner in the 1969 White House Conference on Food, Nutrition, and Health — we again stand ready to work with government and private sector partners to identify and act on steps that can lead to a healthier America in 2030,” a dozen groups, including National Sorghum Producers, said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a53e150317&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;Thursday to President Joe Biden.&nbsp; Senate Finance Committee Advances McKalip Nomination as USTR Chief Agriculture Negotiator The Senate Finance Committee voted on Wednesday to approve the nomination of Mr. Doug McKalip as the Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Following the vote Ambassador Katharine Tai released the following statement, “Given the importance of this position, I urge the United States Senate to confirm Doug as soon as possible so he can get to work on behalf of American agricultural producers, workers, and businesses.” Read Tai’s full statement&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fdf09583e6&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Rail Unions, Carriers Race Deadline Several rail unions and carriers will be meeting with the National Mediation Board this week to discuss recommendations issued by a Presidential Emergency Board last month to resolve a contract dispute. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh attended a meeting with both sides Wednesday, as seven of the 12 unions have not reached a tentative agreement based on the recommendations. Rail unions and carriers will have until September 16 to accept or reject the plan from the emergency board. Meanwhile, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) urged Congress to intervene, if necessary, to prevent any interruptions of rail service that could occur if negotiations fail between rail carriers and labor groups. A train strike could involve 115,000 rail workers and stall as many as 7,000 trains in the midst of harvest. Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=3ab52efd39&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Biofuels Industry Pushes Back Against False Anti-Ethanol Claims&nbsp; Following the Thursday publication of a Reuters&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=11cd3b5f7b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;claiming “ethanol plants produce more than double the climate-damaging pollution, per gallon of fuel production capacity, than the nation’s oil refineries”, the Renewable Fuels Association responded stating, “To truly understand the climate impacts of transportation fuels, you have to look at the emissions associated with every step in the production process. Narrowly focusing on just one piece of the carbon lifecycle is inappropriate, misleading, and misses the forest for the trees. When all of the energy inputs and emissions related to producing corn ethanol are properly considered from beginning to end, it is clear that the fuel has a lifecycle carbon intensity that is 40-50% lower than gasoline. The science is clear that ethanol offers a significant and immediate carbon savings compared to petroleum.” Read more from ProFarmer&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ce5b4ef019&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House Subcommittee Mulls Need to Regulate Kids Working on the Farm&nbsp; Farmworker advocates argued that Congress needs to tighten labor standards to protect young farmworkers from accidents and exposure to harmful chemicals during a Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=60f5721902&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">House Education and Labor Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing</a>. Ms. Kristi Boswell, a witness and adviser to former Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue on labor issues, pushed back against calls for increased regulation saying learning how to work on a farm is good for kids. Boswell warned against giving the Labor Department new authority to regulate farms. &nbsp; ERP Payments Reach $6.59B&nbsp; Emergency Relief Program (ERP) payments have moved up to $6.59 billion as of September 5, with $5.68 billion in payments to non-specialty crop producers and $904 million to specialty crop farmers that suffered losses in 2020 or 2021. Access USDA’s dashboard&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=150397e1a2&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. USDA Unveils Nutrient Management Initiative USDA will direct additional funds toward voluntary nutrient management projects on the farm and streamline the process of applying for funding. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said nutrient management would "help farmers address local resource concerns and global food security issues while also improving their bottom line." The Natural Resources Conservation Service also announced a streamlined funding opportunity for up to $40 million in nutrient management grants through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. In addition, USDA announced an outreach campaign focused on the benefits of nutrient management. It said farmers could save an average of $30 per acre through steps such as reducing nitrogen loss and minimizing nutrient runoff. Read the press release&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=fe45fa3510&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;ORGANIZATION UPDATESFall 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=fabe34390d&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 Crop Update By September 4, ninety-two percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, 6 percentage points behind last year and 5 points behind the 5-year average. Sixty-two percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was at or beyond the coloring stage, nine percentage points behind last year and 5 points behind average. By September 4, twenty-eight percent of the sorghum acreage was mature, 3 percentage points behind last year and 1 point behind average. Eighty percent of Texas’ sorghum acreage was mature by September 4, three percentage points ahead of last year and 4 points ahead of average. Twenty percent of the 2022 sorghum acreage had been harvested by September 4, one percentage point ahead of last year but 1 point behind average. Twenty-one percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but 36 percentage points below the same time last year. 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=776ddfc978&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=8e62caa605&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Drought in the Lone Star State: An update on sorghum and cotton crops</a>&nbsp;- RFD-TV <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9f6596a6c0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Farm groups want to be heard at White House hunger conference</a>&nbsp;- Agri-PulseUpcoming Events September 13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=13634e1735&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Akron USDA-ARS Station - Akron, Colorado September 14&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d1f28fa4e1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">West Texas Agricultural Chemicals Institute Annual Meeting</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Lubbock, Texas September 15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=701215be08&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Plainsman Research Center - Walsh, Colorado September 20&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4c99fc6d8c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">CSU Sorghum Field Day</a>, Field Site north of Brandon - Sheridan Lake, Colorado October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7950096a57&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=eddde68027&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=4b802ee3b7&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=38e336138e&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=e42237e9b6&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 (Updated!)&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=7dcefdcf77&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

GREAT BEND RECREATION COMMISSION Sept. 12 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center

VI. Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend

VII. Old Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Reports &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1. Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. Fitness-Health-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. August Attendance &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5. Brit Spaugh South Park Project

VIII. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Request for Approval: Youth Team T-Shirts Bid: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Executive Session: Personnel Matters of Non-Elected Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In compliance with KSA 75-4319, the board will recess to executive session, if needed, in compliance with Kansas Open Meetings Act.

X. Commissioners Time and Questions

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 </figure>GREAT BEND RECREATION COMMISSION Sept. 12 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation CenterAGENDAI. Call to OrderII. Introduction of GuestsIII. Reading of MinutesIV. Bills PayableV. Financial ReportsVI. Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great BendVII. Old Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Reports &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1. Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. Fitness-Health-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. August Attendance &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5. Brit Spaugh South Park ProjectVIII. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Request for Approval: Youth Team T-Shirts Bid: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Executive Session: Personnel Matters of Non-Elected Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In compliance with KSA 75-4319, the board will recess to executive session, if needed, in compliance with Kansas Open Meetings Act.IX. Other BusinessX. Commissioners Time and QuestionsXI. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec board meeting agenda (9/12)

While the City of Great Bend will initiate a city-wide cleanup Sept. 24 - Oct. 2, the City of Hoisington will
continue annual fall cleanup with dates set for Sept. 22 and Sept. 23. 


Hoisington allows residents to set trash or even large items near their curbs
to be picked up. 


Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper said items should appear on the curbs
no earlier than a week before the pickup date.


"I've received phone calls to put stuff out already," said Kipper. "One, it doesn't look good. Secondly, all it takes is a little rain and that mattress or sofa you set out weighs half a ton. It needs to be lifted into the truck. The truck's arm might break and everything comes to a halt."

Stutzman Refuse Disposal will not pick up hazardous waste.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

"We just ask citizens to be considerate and follow the rules of setting stuff out a week prior," said Kipper.

For questions regarding the annual fall cleanup, you can call Stutzman Refuse at 620-662-2559 or the City of Hoisington at 620-653-4125.

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 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile the City of Great Bend will initiate a city-wide cleanup Sept. 24 - Oct. 2, the City of Hoisington will
continue annual fall cleanup with dates set for Sept. 22 and Sept. 23. 
Hoisington allows residents to set trash or even large items near their curbs
to be picked up. 
Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper said items should appear on the curbs
no earlier than a week before the pickup date.
"I've received phone calls to put stuff out already," said Kipper. "One, it doesn't look good. Secondly, all it takes is a little rain and that mattress or sofa you set out weighs half a ton. It needs to be lifted into the truck. The truck's arm might break and everything comes to a halt."Stutzman Refuse Disposal will not pick up hazardous waste.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"We just ask citizens to be considerate and follow the rules of setting stuff out a week prior," said Kipper.For questions regarding the annual fall cleanup, you can call Stutzman Refuse at 620-662-2559 or the City of Hoisington at 620-653-4125.

Dates set for Hoisington’s annual fall cleanup 

9/9 BOOKED: Mary Barry on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Taylor Koett on two Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Geffrey Palacio on Barton County District Court warrant for Stalking, Violation of a Protection Order, and Criminal Trespass, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Armando Venzor-Marquez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christopher Buckley on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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 </figure>9/9 BOOKED: Mary Barry on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Taylor Koett on two Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Geffrey Palacio on Barton County District Court warrant for Stalking, Violation of a Protection Order, and Criminal Trespass, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Karie McBride on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Armando Venzor-Marquez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher Buckley on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Cirus Feil on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Virginia Lang on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $250 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $565 cash only; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Michelle Cavender on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: David Hester on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Gefferey Palacio on four Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.&nbsp;BOOKED: Zackary Jacobs on two Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.BOOKED: James Creamer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Kenneth Reed on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: David Sims on Hoisington Municipal Court case, after 18-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Geffrey Palacio on Barton County District Court warrant for Stalking, Violation of a Protection Order, and Criminal Trespass, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Armando Venzor-Marquez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Michelle Cavender on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: James Creamer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.9/10 BOOKED: Roy Magnuson on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $200 cash only.BOOKED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended - third conviction, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $200 cash bond.RELEASED: Matthew Cooley on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation and another for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: Brendon Dry on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Randy Chambers on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Melissa Sanders on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended - third conviction, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.9/11 RELEASED: Craig Redden on Barton County District Court case, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Zackery Jacobs on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Brian Jonas on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

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