By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Two days after the 20th anniversary of the double-homicide at the Dolly Madison Bakery outlet store in Great Bend, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation held a press conference outside its Great Bend office to announce new evidence had been found in the case. Tuesday afternoon, KBI Special Agent Cory Latham announced male DNA has been identified on a sample taken from one of the victims.

"Over the past year, KBI agents and forensic scientists conducted an exhaustive review of all the physical evidence that was collected in this case," Latham said. "We focused on technologies that have advanced beyond where they were in 2002, and even beyond after that, especially focusing on areas that can help produce results that would be useful today. As a result of that review and additional testing, we have identified a male DNA on a sample that was collected from the body of one of our victims."

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b71f6fd9-f340-4839-bd6a-9eb7b0f92322">RELATED: 20 years later: Memories of life before, after Dolly Madison murders</a>

On Sept. 4, 2002, just before 8 p.m., a delivery truck driver at the bakery notified Great Bend Police about the double-homicide. Inside the shop near the intersection of 10th Street and Harrison were the bodies of 24-year-old Mandi Alexander and 79-year-old Mary Drake.

"A thorough investigation was conducted at the time," Latham said. "We've pored over hundreds of leads, we've interviewed hundreds of individuals, we've spent thousands of person-hours working this investigation, but to date, no individuals have been arrested for this crime. We hope to change that."

The DNA discovered via testing is Y-STR, with the "Y" indicating the genetic material is male, and the "STR" standing for "short tandem repeat." Y-STR samples provide weaker analysis than autosomal STRs. Because the DNA found is only Y-STR, it cannot be entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) most commonly known to the public. 

"Y-STRs are useful to us in terms of a direct comparison," Latham explained. "What I mean by that is, we need to have the name of an individual then we'll go ask that individual to give us a sample of their DNA, then we can compare that. It is not a profile we can place into a national database and search at this time. So, while useful, it doesn't help answer the question as to who that person is today. But it's promising, and we hope it will help us in the future."

Given the limited sample available and improved technology, KBI scientists went forward with testing to see if any DNA could be developed.

"We trust the forensic scientists in our laboratory to tell us when the best and most appropriate time is to conduct certain testing because we only have limited amounts of sample to deal with, and if you consume them now, something that's available in the future may not be available to you to do," Latham said. "That is why we're here 20 years later on that."

He further explained why this particular test was done. "We run Y-STRs in situations in which you expect there to be a mixture of DNA. I told you guys the sample in this particular case came from one of the bodies of our victims. They're female. We were hoping to be able to pull out male DNA from that, and so we opted to run Y-STR testing." 

Latham did not disclose upon which victim the DNA sample was found, nor did he disclose the source of the DNA. He did say that, while the DNA can be traced paternally, there is not enough to use against genetic databases. Joseph DeAngelo, known as the Golden State Killer, was ultimately caught by detectives in 2018 using public genetic databases.

"Genetic genealogy is something that requires substantially more DNA than what we have currently, in this particular instance," said Latham. "Genetic genealogy is looking at the different genealogy databases that are out there and making connections that way. That is a good forensic investigative technique. At this time it's not available to us with what we have."

Given the passage of time, the person responsible for the double homicide in Great Bend in 2002 may have died or had children. Latham said any male from that paternal line would have similar DNA.

"The one advantage Y-STRs offer is it's inherited on the male side," he said. "So if we're not able to collect from that individual, but that individual's son, or that individual's brother, or that individual's dad is around, we can still make that link and put together an investigation from there."

Latham emphasized the point of Tuesday's press conference was to remind anyone with previously unreported information that no detail is too small.

"We're holding this press conference today because we hope we can find that individual out there that may be holding onto just a little bit of information;" he said, "hoping we can find an individual who's willing to share that little detail that maybe they haven't shared in the past, or that suspicion about an individual that we can then utilize in our investigation."

Tips may be reported by calling 1-800-KS-CRIME, by calling Barton County Crimestoppers at (620) 792-1300, or by reporting anonymously online at www.kbi.ks.gov/SAR.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662493042874.jpeg" alt="KBI Special Agent Cory Latham speaks at Tuesday's press conference. Also pictured, from left: Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellinder, KBI Special Agent Brian Carroll, and Great Bend Police Chief&nbsp; Steve Haulmark." />
 <figcaption>KBI Special Agent Cory Latham speaks at Tuesday's press conference. Also pictured, from left: Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellinder, KBI Special Agent Brian Carroll, and Great Bend Police Chief&nbsp; Steve Haulmark.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTwo days after the 20th anniversary of the double-homicide at the Dolly Madison Bakery outlet store in Great Bend, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation held a press conference outside its Great Bend office to announce new evidence had been found in the case. Tuesday afternoon, KBI Special Agent Cory Latham announced male DNA has been identified on a sample taken from one of the victims."Over the past year, KBI agents and forensic scientists conducted an exhaustive review of all the physical evidence that was collected in this case," Latham said. "We focused on technologies that have advanced beyond where they were in 2002, and even beyond after that, especially focusing on areas that can help produce results that would be useful today. As a result of that review and additional testing, we have identified a male DNA on a sample that was collected from the body of one of our victims."<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b71f6fd9-f340-4839-bd6a-9eb7b0f92322">RELATED: 20 years later: Memories of life before, after Dolly Madison murders</a>On Sept. 4, 2002, just before 8 p.m., a delivery truck driver at the bakery notified Great Bend Police about the double-homicide. Inside the shop near the intersection of 10th Street and Harrison were the bodies of 24-year-old Mandi Alexander and 79-year-old Mary Drake."A thorough investigation was conducted at the time," Latham said. "We've pored over hundreds of leads, we've interviewed hundreds of individuals, we've spent thousands of person-hours working this investigation, but to date, no individuals have been arrested for this crime. We hope to change that."The DNA discovered via testing is Y-STR, with the "Y" indicating the genetic material is male, and the "STR" standing for "short tandem repeat." Y-STR samples provide weaker analysis than autosomal STRs. Because the DNA found is only Y-STR, it cannot be entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) most commonly known to the public. "Y-STRs are useful to us in terms of a direct comparison," Latham explained. "What I mean by that is, we need to have the name of an individual then we'll go ask that individual to give us a sample of their DNA, then we can compare that. It is not a profile we can place into a national database and search at this time. So, while useful, it doesn't help answer the question as to who that person is today. But it's promising, and we hope it will help us in the future."Given the limited sample available and improved technology, KBI scientists went forward with testing to see if any DNA could be developed."We trust the forensic scientists in our laboratory to tell us when the best and most appropriate time is to conduct certain testing because we only have limited amounts of sample to deal with, and if you consume them now, something that's available in the future may not be available to you to do," Latham said. "That is why we're here 20 years later on that."He further explained why this particular test was done. "We run Y-STRs in situations in which you expect there to be a mixture of DNA. I told you guys the sample in this particular case came from one of the bodies of our victims. They're female. We were hoping to be able to pull out male DNA from that, and so we opted to run Y-STR testing." Latham did not disclose upon which victim the DNA sample was found, nor did he disclose the source of the DNA. He did say that, while the DNA can be traced paternally, there is not enough to use against genetic databases. Joseph DeAngelo, known as the Golden State Killer, was ultimately caught by detectives in 2018 using public genetic databases."Genetic genealogy is something that requires substantially more DNA than what we have currently, in this particular instance," said Latham. "Genetic genealogy is looking at the different genealogy databases that are out there and making connections that way. That is a good forensic investigative technique. At this time it's not available to us with what we have."Given the passage of time, the person responsible for the double homicide in Great Bend in 2002 may have died or had children. Latham said any male from that paternal line would have similar DNA."The one advantage Y-STRs offer is it's inherited on the male side," he said. "So if we're not able to collect from that individual, but that individual's son, or that individual's brother, or that individual's dad is around, we can still make that link and put together an investigation from there."Latham emphasized the point of Tuesday's press conference was to remind anyone with previously unreported information that no detail is too small."We're holding this press conference today because we hope we can find that individual out there that may be holding onto just a little bit of information;" he said, "hoping we can find an individual who's willing to share that little detail that maybe they haven't shared in the past, or that suspicion about an individual that we can then utilize in our investigation."Tips may be reported by calling 1-800-KS-CRIME, by calling Barton County Crimestoppers at (620) 792-1300, or by reporting anonymously online at www.kbi.ks.gov/SAR.

KBI: Male DNA found on victim of Dolly Madison double homicide

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

Sign Up Your Team for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Tournament on Friday, Sept. 23!

Last Chance to Register is Friday, Sept 9th!&nbsp;Looking for a great way to meet new people or maybe just an excuse to get out of the office early on a Friday? The 17th Annual Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament will be held Friday, September 23rd at Lake Barton Golf Club with a 10:00 AM shotgun start.&nbsp;

Not a golfer? Join us at the Patio Party for fun, raffles, taco bar and see who wins the awards!

﻿Register your team or hole sponsorship online,<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779591&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814008&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F17th-annual-great-bend-chamber-of-commerce-golf-tournament-10269%3FcalendarMonth%3D2022-09-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b1d7d1ea56f695cd26388993db7a6bfe00a15aac49bf7c57b40696790f24ec6c" target="_blank">&nbsp;click here.</a>&nbsp;

Questions?&nbsp;Contact the Chamber, 620-792-2401, or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mbarfield@greatbend.org" target="_blank">marketing@greatbend.org</a>. If you prefer to register by phone, we can take down your players' names and invoice you for the fees to save you time!

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779591&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814008&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F17th-annual-great-bend-chamber-of-commerce-golf-tournament-10269%3FcalendarMonth%3D2022-09-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b1d7d1ea56f695cd26388993db7a6bfe00a15aac49bf7c57b40696790f24ec6c" target="_blank">Register Your Team Today!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662481845164.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...Here's your ticket out of the office...Sign Up Your Team for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Tournament on Friday, Sept. 23!Last Chance to Register is Friday, Sept 9th!&nbsp;Looking for a great way to meet new people or maybe just an excuse to get out of the office early on a Friday? The 17th Annual Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament will be held Friday, September 23rd at Lake Barton Golf Club with a 10:00 AM shotgun start.&nbsp;Not a golfer? Join us at the Patio Party for fun, raffles, taco bar and see who wins the awards!Join us a few ways:<ul>
 <li>Individual Registration:&nbsp;$115.00&nbsp;(Includes Mulligans, Contests, and Patio Party)</li><li>Team Registration:&nbsp;$450.00&nbsp;(Includes Mulligans, Contests, and Patio Party)</li><li>Hole Sponsorship:&nbsp;$100.00&nbsp;</li><li>Patio Party Ticket:&nbsp;$25.00&nbsp;(Includes 2 drink tickets, Taco Bar, and 1 raffle ticket)</li><li>Other Sponsorship Opportunities are available as well (contact the Chamber office for more information)</li>
 </ul>﻿Register your team or hole sponsorship online,<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779591&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814008&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F17th-annual-great-bend-chamber-of-commerce-golf-tournament-10269%3FcalendarMonth%3D2022-09-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b1d7d1ea56f695cd26388993db7a6bfe00a15aac49bf7c57b40696790f24ec6c" target="_blank">&nbsp;click here.</a>&nbsp;Questions?&nbsp;Contact the Chamber, 620-792-2401, or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mbarfield@greatbend.org" target="_blank">marketing@greatbend.org</a>. If you prefer to register by phone, we can take down your players' names and invoice you for the fees to save you time!<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779591&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1814008&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F17th-annual-great-bend-chamber-of-commerce-golf-tournament-10269%3FcalendarMonth%3D2022-09-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b1d7d1ea56f695cd26388993db7a6bfe00a15aac49bf7c57b40696790f24ec6c" target="_blank">Register Your Team Today!</a>

Great Bend Chamber golf tournament Sept. 23

News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 6 John P. Tretbar

Natural gas prices surged more than 35% on Monday, after Russia announced it will keep its main gas pipeline to Europe shut indefinitely. Moscow said service on the Nord Stream Pipeline will not resume until what it called the "collective West" lifts sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine. European gas prices jumped as much as 30% to levels 400% higher than a year ago. Oil prices in August registered a third straight monthly decline, marking the longest losing run in more than two years. West Texas Intermediate lost more than 9% in August, the largest monthly decline since November. The US oil benchmark last week settled below $90 a barrel for the first time in two weeks. In daytime trading Tuesday, prices were over $86 per barrel for the near-month Nymex contract. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels last week, but retail prices continue their two-month cascade. Gasoline inventories are about 7% below the five-year average for this time of year according to weekly data from the government. Pump prices continued to drop, with the national average down to $3.77 per gallon Tuesday, according to the auto club Triple-A. Baker Hughes on Friday announced a big drop in the number of drilling rigs actively seeking oil in the US. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday was 760 rigs. Of those, 596 were exploring for oil, down nine rigs from the week before. The weekly report shows 162 were drilling for natural gas, which is up four rigs. The count in Texas was down nine rigs, while New Mexico and North Dakota were each up two. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was scouting 483 wells in various stages of drilling or completion. So far this year, 211 Kansas operators have spudded 1,014 wells, up 61% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged in the eastern half of the state at 26 active rigs. The count west of Wichita was down one at 33 rigs. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County, and operators were about to spud new wells in Ellis and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators okayed 35 new drilling permits across the state in the week through September 1. There were 20 in eastern Kansas and 15 in the western half of the state. Those include one new drilling location in Barton County and six in Ellis County. That's 1,108 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 677 at this time last year. Operators completed 31 new wells last week in Kansas, 13 of them east of Wichita and 18 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 1,064 new well-completions so far this year, which is nearly double the tally last year at this time. The number of benchmark crude contracts that have not been settled, so called "open interest," recently dropped 26% to a seven-year low. That's drawn the attention of OPEC ministers and conspiracy theorists alike. Most analysts weighing in thus far agree with the government explanation, suggesting the decline reflects a wider drop in hedging activity. The Energy Information Administration reports US crude-oil production last week rose by more than 100,000 barrels per day to 12.118 million barrels per day. Production a year ago was closer to 11.5 million barrels per day. The government reported crude inventories dropped by another three million barrels. The tally as of August 26th was 418.3 million barrels, marking the third consecutive weekly decline. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels last week, but retail prices continue their two-month cascade. Gasoline inventories are about 7% below the five-year average for this time of year according to weekly data from the government. Pump prices continued to drop, with the national average down to $3.84 per gallon, according to the auto club Triple-A. US crude-oil imports dropped to six million barrels per day last week, down more than 200-thousand barrels from the week before. Over the last four weeks crude imports are down about three percent from the same four weeks last year. Shale producers in the United States are on course for their most profitable year on record, with earnings possibly reaching $200 billion this year. An industry consulting firm tells Bloomberg the worldwide oil patch is on target to generate a record $1.4 trillion of free cash flow. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US is down 11% year-over-year. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,642 tanker carloads hauling petroleum in the week through August 27th, down 41 carloads from the week before. Canadian traffic was down more than 300 carloads for the week and more than six percent year-over-year. The war over green investments escalated last week in Texas, where ten financial firms are now barred from doing business because they shun the oil patch. Comptroller Glenn Hegar is a Republican running for reelection. His office targeted banks and investment firms, as well as some funds within large banks such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. They are no longer eligible for most contracts with state and local government entities. Earlier this year, Hegar sent inquiries to hundreds of companies requesting information about whether they were avoiding investments in the oil and gas industry in favor of renewable energy companies. State pension funds and local governments issuing municipal bonds will have to divest from the companies on the list, though there are some exemptions. The state oil and gas regulator in Texas announced a new searchable database which includes all historic oil and gas production records dating back to the 1930s. In an announcement, the Railroad Commission of Texas said more than 1,300 rolls of microfilm containing about 2.2 million images were digitized for the project. Those original records are still available if you want to travel Austin, but the Commission says the digitized records can be searched and downloaded anytime and anywhere you have an internet connection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 6 John P. TretbarNatural gas prices surged more than 35% on Monday, after Russia announced it will keep its main gas pipeline to Europe shut indefinitely. Moscow said service on the Nord Stream Pipeline will not resume until what it called the "collective West" lifts sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine. European gas prices jumped as much as 30% to levels 400% higher than a year ago. Oil prices in August registered a third straight monthly decline, marking the longest losing run in more than two years. West Texas Intermediate lost more than 9% in August, the largest monthly decline since November. The US oil benchmark last week settled below $90 a barrel for the first time in two weeks. In daytime trading Tuesday, prices were over $86 per barrel for the near-month Nymex contract. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels last week, but retail prices continue their two-month cascade. Gasoline inventories are about 7% below the five-year average for this time of year according to weekly data from the government. Pump prices continued to drop, with the national average down to $3.77 per gallon Tuesday, according to the auto club Triple-A. Baker Hughes on Friday announced a big drop in the number of drilling rigs actively seeking oil in the US. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday was 760 rigs. Of those, 596 were exploring for oil, down nine rigs from the week before. The weekly report shows 162 were drilling for natural gas, which is up four rigs. The count in Texas was down nine rigs, while New Mexico and North Dakota were each up two. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was scouting 483 wells in various stages of drilling or completion. So far this year, 211 Kansas operators have spudded 1,014 wells, up 61% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged in the eastern half of the state at 26 active rigs. The count west of Wichita was down one at 33 rigs. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County, and operators were about to spud new wells in Ellis and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators okayed 35 new drilling permits across the state in the week through September 1. There were 20 in eastern Kansas and 15 in the western half of the state. Those include one new drilling location in Barton County and six in Ellis County. That's 1,108 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 677 at this time last year. Operators completed 31 new wells last week in Kansas, 13 of them east of Wichita and 18 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 1,064 new well-completions so far this year, which is nearly double the tally last year at this time. The number of benchmark crude contracts that have not been settled, so called "open interest," recently dropped 26% to a seven-year low. That's drawn the attention of OPEC ministers and conspiracy theorists alike. Most analysts weighing in thus far agree with the government explanation, suggesting the decline reflects a wider drop in hedging activity. The Energy Information Administration reports US crude-oil production last week rose by more than 100,000 barrels per day to 12.118 million barrels per day. Production a year ago was closer to 11.5 million barrels per day. The government reported crude inventories dropped by another three million barrels. The tally as of August 26th was 418.3 million barrels, marking the third consecutive weekly decline. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels last week, but retail prices continue their two-month cascade. Gasoline inventories are about 7% below the five-year average for this time of year according to weekly data from the government. Pump prices continued to drop, with the national average down to $3.84 per gallon, according to the auto club Triple-A. US crude-oil imports dropped to six million barrels per day last week, down more than 200-thousand barrels from the week before. Over the last four weeks crude imports are down about three percent from the same four weeks last year. Shale producers in the United States are on course for their most profitable year on record, with earnings possibly reaching $200 billion this year. An industry consulting firm tells Bloomberg the worldwide oil patch is on target to generate a record $1.4 trillion of free cash flow. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US is down 11% year-over-year. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,642 tanker carloads hauling petroleum in the week through August 27th, down 41 carloads from the week before. Canadian traffic was down more than 300 carloads for the week and more than six percent year-over-year. The war over green investments escalated last week in Texas, where ten financial firms are now barred from doing business because they shun the oil patch. Comptroller Glenn Hegar is a Republican running for reelection. His office targeted banks and investment firms, as well as some funds within large banks such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. They are no longer eligible for most contracts with state and local government entities. Earlier this year, Hegar sent inquiries to hundreds of companies requesting information about whether they were avoiding investments in the oil and gas industry in favor of renewable energy companies. State pension funds and local governments issuing municipal bonds will have to divest from the companies on the list, though there are some exemptions. The state oil and gas regulator in Texas announced a new searchable database which includes all historic oil and gas production records dating back to the 1930s. In an announcement, the Railroad Commission of Texas said more than 1,300 rolls of microfilm containing about 2.2 million images were digitized for the project. Those original records are still available if you want to travel Austin, but the Commission says the digitized records can be searched and downloaded anytime and anywhere you have an internet connection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Russia shuts pipeline

The first legal sports wager in Kansas is in the books. Last Thursday, the same day the state legalized sports betting, Governor Laura Kelly put $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win the Super Bowl on a bet made at Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway.

Thursday's event at noon was just a soft opening for legalized sports betting, which will go full tilt on Sept. 8. With the passage of Senate Bill 84, all state-operated casinos in Kansas will be able to offer in-person and mobile sports betting. 

Per the bill, the first $750,000 generated from wagering must be transferred from the Kansas Lottery to the White Collar Crime Fund. Eighty percent of the remaining money must be transferred to the Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund. The 10 percent tax on sports betting in Kansas is minimal compared to other states that charge between 15 and 51 percent, but is still expected to generate $1.8 million next year and $6 million in 2024.

But with gambling sometimes comes addiction. As of July 1, 2023, two percent of remaining tax dollars raised from betting must be transferred to the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund to help offset some expected treatment costs.

"It seems pretty wide open that you can bet on not just the game outcome but whether somebody is wearing red socks or white socks that day," said Dr. Patrick Stang, psychiatrist with the Center for Counseling in Great Bend. "You can bet on all kinds of aspects of it. It's so available and they're pushing it pretty hard. You see ads on TV every five minutes about how great this is going to be."

Stang said treating gambling addiction can be tough as those who seek treatment often present with other issues.

"I think it's not always at the top of your list to ask about because people usually don't come in for that," he said. "A lot of times they come in for depression or anxiety or something else. They don't always mention their gambling problem until maybe you get to know them better."

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe first legal sports wager in Kansas is in the books. Last Thursday, the same day the state legalized sports betting, Governor Laura Kelly put $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win the Super Bowl on a bet made at Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway.Thursday's event at noon was just a soft opening for legalized sports betting, which will go full tilt on Sept. 8. With the passage of Senate Bill 84, all state-operated casinos in Kansas will be able to offer in-person and mobile sports betting. Per the bill, the first $750,000 generated from wagering must be transferred from the Kansas Lottery to the White Collar Crime Fund. Eighty percent of the remaining money must be transferred to the Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund. The 10 percent tax on sports betting in Kansas is minimal compared to other states that charge between 15 and 51 percent, but is still expected to generate $1.8 million next year and $6 million in 2024.But with gambling sometimes comes addiction. As of July 1, 2023, two percent of remaining tax dollars raised from betting must be transferred to the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund to help offset some expected treatment costs."It seems pretty wide open that you can bet on not just the game outcome but whether somebody is wearing red socks or white socks that day," said Dr. Patrick Stang, psychiatrist with the Center for Counseling in Great Bend. "You can bet on all kinds of aspects of it. It's so available and they're pushing it pretty hard. You see ads on TV every five minutes about how great this is going to be."Stang said treating gambling addiction can be tough as those who seek treatment often present with other issues."I think it's not always at the top of your list to ask about because people usually don't come in for that," he said. "A lot of times they come in for depression or anxiety or something else. They don't always mention their gambling problem until maybe you get to know them better."

Great Bend psychiatrist: Legalized gambling could have unintended costs

This article written by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State Extension Nutrient Management Specialist, gives a great summary on planning the best wheat fertility program through timely soil testing. It addresses the correlation between the amount of fall nitrate-N in the soil profile and wheat yield.

Taking 24-inch soil profile-N samples in the fall has been a recommended practice for making an N recommendation for winter wheat for many years. However, due to the mobility of nitrate-N in the soil, soil test values observed in the fall may be different from values observed in the spring, particularly on soils prone to leaching. Because many producers wait until spring green-up to make their N application, does soil sampling in the fall for nitrate-N, really provide useful information for N management in wheat? That is a legitimate question.

Analysis of yields taken from K-State research plots that received no N fertilizer shows a strong positive relationship with fall soil profile nitrate-N level and wheat yield.

We found that at low soil nitrate levels, wheat yields responded well to applied N fertilizer in the fall. We also found that when fall soil profile nitrate-N levels are greater than 80 to 100 lbs./acre, it is unlikely the site will respond to additional fertilizer N applied in the spring.

In short, a strong relationship was found between wheat yield and fall nitrate-N levels from 24-inch profile soil test analyses when no N fertilizer was applied. Although new practices have been developed to improve N management in winter wheat, soil sampling in the fall for nitrate-N remains an important practice to manage N efficiently and can result in considerable savings for producers.

When soil sampling for N is not done, the K-State fertilizer recommendation formula defaults to a standard value of 30 lbs./acre available N in the soil profile. In this particular dataset, the average profile N level was 39 lbs. N/acre. However, the N level at individual sites ranged from 11 to 197 lbs. N/acre. Most recommendation systems default to a standardized set of N recommendations based on yield goal and/or the cost of N. Without sampling for N or using some alternative method of measuring the soil’s ability to supply N to a crop, such as crop sensing, the recommendations made for N will

be inaccurate, resulting in a reduction in yield or profit per acre and increased environmental impact.

Failure to account for the N present in the soil wastes a valuable resource and can result in excess foliage, increased plant disease, inefficient use of soil water, and reduced yield. Twenty-four-inch profile soil sampling in fall for nitrate-N can have a significant impact on N recommendations and profitability for winter wheat in Kansas soils.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>This article written by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State Extension Nutrient Management Specialist, gives a great summary on planning the best wheat fertility program through timely soil testing. It addresses the correlation between the amount of fall nitrate-N in the soil profile and wheat yield.Taking 24-inch soil profile-N samples in the fall has been a recommended practice for making an N recommendation for winter wheat for many years. However, due to the mobility of nitrate-N in the soil, soil test values observed in the fall may be different from values observed in the spring, particularly on soils prone to leaching. Because many producers wait until spring green-up to make their N application, does soil sampling in the fall for nitrate-N, really provide useful information for N management in wheat? That is a legitimate question.Analysis of yields taken from K-State research plots that received no N fertilizer shows a strong positive relationship with fall soil profile nitrate-N level and wheat yield.We found that at low soil nitrate levels, wheat yields responded well to applied N fertilizer in the fall. We also found that when fall soil profile nitrate-N levels are greater than 80 to 100 lbs./acre, it is unlikely the site will respond to additional fertilizer N applied in the spring.In short, a strong relationship was found between wheat yield and fall nitrate-N levels from 24-inch profile soil test analyses when no N fertilizer was applied. Although new practices have been developed to improve N management in winter wheat, soil sampling in the fall for nitrate-N remains an important practice to manage N efficiently and can result in considerable savings for producers.When soil sampling for N is not done, the K-State fertilizer recommendation formula defaults to a standard value of 30 lbs./acre available N in the soil profile. In this particular dataset, the average profile N level was 39 lbs. N/acre. However, the N level at individual sites ranged from 11 to 197 lbs. N/acre. Most recommendation systems default to a standardized set of N recommendations based on yield goal and/or the cost of N. Without sampling for N or using some alternative method of measuring the soil’s ability to supply N to a crop, such as crop sensing, the recommendations made for N willbe inaccurate, resulting in a reduction in yield or profit per acre and increased environmental impact.Failure to account for the N present in the soil wastes a valuable resource and can result in excess foliage, increased plant disease, inefficient use of soil water, and reduced yield. Twenty-four-inch profile soil sampling in fall for nitrate-N can have a significant impact on N recommendations and profitability for winter wheat in Kansas soils.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Fall profile nitrate-N level and wheat yield

9/2 BOOKED: Cecil Petrie on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,293 cash only.

BOOKED: Remi Ingram on two Barton County District Court cases for Intimidation of a Witness, bonds set at $40,000 C/S.&nbsp;

BOOKED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Bryce Hofmeister on Barton County District Court case for Electronic Solicitation, bond set at $500,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Brian Jonas on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Michael Henderson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Revoked, No Proof of Insurance, and No Eye Protection, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a cash bond of $1,293.

RELEASED: Laveta Elam on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Remi Ingram on two Barton County District Court cases for Intimidation of a Witness, after posting $80,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Michael Henderson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Revoked, No Proof of Insurance, and No Eye Protection, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

9/3 BOOKED: Ethyn Pletcher on Barton County District Court case for DUI 1st, Speeding, and Window Tint, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.

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

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

RELEASED: Ethyn Pletcher on Barton County District Court case for DUI 1st, Speeding, and Window Tint, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

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

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

9/4 BOOKED: Juan Valadez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving without a License, ITOL, Expired Registration, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Emmanuel Ferrel on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Batterly of LEO, Disorderly Conduct, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jacque Martinez on Barton County District Court case for SUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: James Valdovinos on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Minor in Possession, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.

RELEASED: Juan Valadez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving without a License, ITOL, Expired Registration, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Emmanuel Ferrel on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Battery of LEO, Disorderly Conduct, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Brian Jonas on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="Ace Bail Bonding" />
 <figcaption>Ace Bail Bonding</figcaption>
 </figure>9/2 BOOKED: Cecil Petrie on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,293 cash only.BOOKED: Remi Ingram on two Barton County District Court cases for Intimidation of a Witness, bonds set at $40,000 C/S.&nbsp;BOOKED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Bryce Hofmeister on Barton County District Court case for Electronic Solicitation, bond set at $500,000 C/S.BOOKED: Brian Jonas on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Michael Henderson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Revoked, No Proof of Insurance, and No Eye Protection, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a cash bond of $1,293.RELEASED: Laveta Elam on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Remi Ingram on two Barton County District Court cases for Intimidation of a Witness, after posting $80,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;RELEASED: Michael Henderson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Revoked, No Proof of Insurance, and No Eye Protection, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.9/3 BOOKED: Ethyn Pletcher on Barton County District Court case for DUI 1st, Speeding, and Window Tint, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court warrants, to serve sentence.BOOKED: John Carson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Danielle Werth on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Ethyn Pletcher on Barton County District Court case for DUI 1st, Speeding, and Window Tint, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: John Carson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Danielle Werth on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.9/4 BOOKED: Juan Valadez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving without a License, ITOL, Expired Registration, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Emmanuel Ferrel on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Batterly of LEO, Disorderly Conduct, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Jacque Martinez on Barton County District Court case for SUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: James Valdovinos on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Minor in Possession, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.RELEASED: Juan Valadez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving without a License, ITOL, Expired Registration, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Emmanuel Ferrel on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Battery of LEO, Disorderly Conduct, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Brian Jonas on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (9/2-9/5)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

As a new playground set at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo is
constructed, the old playground was ripped out. The equipment installed in the late
2000s was not completely destroyed. Several pieces, including slides and
swings, were given to the animals as enrichment pieces. 
Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said enrichment entertainment pieces are just as
important to the animals as veterinary care and nutrition. "It depends on the animal as far as how often they get enrichment," said Burdick. "Every animal gets it at least once a week. The primates, the lemurs and the gibbons, they get it every day. If we notice an animal is pacing, we'll evaluate if they need more enrichment." 
The zoo posted videos this week of the lemurs interacting with a recycled
playground swing. Burdick said there are roughly 10 pieces of the old
playground staff will distribute to different animals. "Sometimes we'll be at a garage sale, see a kid's toy, and think that would be cool for the animals," said Burdick. "There are also forums and things online, where zookeepers share their ideas. We collaborate ideas. You can get creative with it." 
The new playground is expected to be installed within the next couple of
months.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662055865963.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAs a new playground set at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo is
constructed, the old playground was ripped out. The equipment installed in the late
2000s was not completely destroyed. Several pieces, including slides and
swings, were given to the animals as enrichment pieces. 
Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said enrichment entertainment pieces are just as
important to the animals as veterinary care and nutrition. "It depends on the animal as far as how often they get enrichment," said Burdick. "Every animal gets it at least once a week. The primates, the lemurs and the gibbons, they get it every day. If we notice an animal is pacing, we'll evaluate if they need more enrichment." 
The zoo posted videos this week of the lemurs interacting with a recycled
playground swing. Burdick said there are roughly 10 pieces of the old
playground staff will distribute to different animals. "Sometimes we'll be at a garage sale, see a kid's toy, and think that would be cool for the animals," said Burdick. "There are also forums and things online, where zookeepers share their ideas. We collaborate ideas. You can get creative with it." 
The new playground is expected to be installed within the next couple of
months.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fposts%2Fpfbid031sMM3wP8ZCQTamfeX4AjwCaoPBhii52unS852YUMTE9JNv3d5kAvtWzurta3Vsorl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="684" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Recycled playground enriching the lives of Great Bend zoo animals

Today Sunny, with a high near 94. South wind 7 to 10 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 62. South southwest wind 6 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 63. East wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 95. South wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 64.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 79.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 94. South wind 7 to 10 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 62. South southwest wind 6 to 9 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 63. East wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 95. South wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 64.Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 79.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.Monday Sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly last week announced appointments to state commissions. &nbsp;

Among the appointments was La Crosse's Jeremiah Hobbs.

Kansas Water Authority Purpose:&nbsp;Review plans for the development, management and use of the water resources of the state by any state or local agency.

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly last week announced appointments to state commissions. &nbsp;Among the appointments was La Crosse's Jeremiah Hobbs.Kansas Water Authority Purpose:&nbsp;Review plans for the development, management and use of the water resources of the state by any state or local agency.<ul>
 <li>Jeremiah Hobbs, La Crosse (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>

La Crosse man reappointed to Kan. water board

PAWNEE COUNTY – The Wichita Police Department reported that 81-year-old Phillip Cromwell has been located by deputies from the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. He is in good condition. The statewide silver alert is now canceled.

SEDWGWICK COUNTY –&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Wichita man.&nbsp;

The whereabouts of 81-year-old Phillip C. Cromwell are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.

Cromwell was last seen at his home in Wichita at around 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 5. He was driving a black 2007 GMC Sierra pickup with Kansas tag 083GNZ. A license plate reader spotted his vehicle around 3:15 p.m. near Nickerson, Kansas.

Cromwell has early onset dementia. He may be traveling to the Lyons area.

He is a white male, 5-foot-11 and weighs around 183 pounds. He has gray hair and brown eyes. Cromwell was last seen wearing black jeans, a grey shirt with blue letters, and black shoes.

If you see Cromwell, or his vehicle, please immediately contact 911. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at 316-350-3460.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662418704165.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY – The Wichita Police Department reported that 81-year-old Phillip Cromwell has been located by deputies from the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. He is in good condition. The statewide silver alert is now canceled.--------SEDWGWICK COUNTY –&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Wichita man.&nbsp;The whereabouts of 81-year-old Phillip C. Cromwell are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662418669752.png" alt="Cromwell-photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Cromwell-photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Cromwell was last seen at his home in Wichita at around 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 5. He was driving a black 2007 GMC Sierra pickup with Kansas tag 083GNZ. A license plate reader spotted his vehicle around 3:15 p.m. near Nickerson, Kansas.Cromwell has early onset dementia. He may be traveling to the Lyons area.He is a white male, 5-foot-11 and weighs around 183 pounds. He has gray hair and brown eyes. Cromwell was last seen wearing black jeans, a grey shirt with blue letters, and black shoes.If you see Cromwell, or his vehicle, please immediately contact 911. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at 316-350-3460.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled, missing man found in Pawnee Co.

The American Legion Baseball post in Great Bend, Argonne Post 180, thanks the 2022 baseball sponsors.

Your willingness to step up and sponsor is tremendously appreciated.

World Series: Nex-Tech Smith Supply, LLC Cooper Production Products, Inc.

Grand Slam: Venture Corporation Marmie Auto Group ALB, Inc. Wheatland Electric Cooperative M&amp;M Equipment

Double: Results Realty A&amp;A Roofing

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627414283902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The American Legion Baseball post in Great Bend, Argonne Post 180, thanks the 2022 baseball sponsors.Your willingness to step up and sponsor is tremendously appreciated.World Series: Nex-Tech Smith Supply, LLC Cooper Production Products, Inc.Grand Slam: Venture Corporation Marmie Auto Group ALB, Inc. Wheatland Electric Cooperative M&amp;M EquipmentDouble: Results Realty A&amp;A Roofing

Great Bend American Legion thanks baseball sponsors

Have you ever run into the grocery store for just one or two items then realized that your arms were overflowing?

Life can be like that and especially for our youth! It is easy to over-schedule or underestimate the time needed to accomplish tasks and, suddenly, our day or week have been become overwhelming!

It is important to think about our options. Just like making the decision to grab a cart when our groceries are more than we planned, where do we need help? Do we need to put some things back, both at the grocery store or in life? Are there some things that we realize we don’t need at all?

4-H is about experiential learning and sometimes that learning includes how to balance. I encourage families to not take on too many projects at a time or take a reasonable number of entries to an event.

Some people thrive on dozens of balls in the air – they can make that grocery store run look effortless. Others maintain a streamlined focus – I need two items and two items is all I am picking up. I know that I fall somewhere in the middle most of the time! Youth need to see the adults in their world set parameters and ask for help when needed.

Yes, there are times when we are scrambling to hold everything. Be sure to stop and think about your bigger picture and what we teach young people when we must be “busy” all the time and can’t/won’t take time for a rest. That rest may be as simple as enjoying a star-filled sky, sharing a funny joke, or having lunch with a friend.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Have you ever run into the grocery store for just one or two items then realized that your arms were overflowing?Life can be like that and especially for our youth! It is easy to over-schedule or underestimate the time needed to accomplish tasks and, suddenly, our day or week have been become overwhelming!It is important to think about our options. Just like making the decision to grab a cart when our groceries are more than we planned, where do we need help? Do we need to put some things back, both at the grocery store or in life? Are there some things that we realize we don’t need at all?4-H is about experiential learning and sometimes that learning includes how to balance. I encourage families to not take on too many projects at a time or take a reasonable number of entries to an event.Some people thrive on dozens of balls in the air – they can make that grocery store run look effortless. Others maintain a streamlined focus – I need two items and two items is all I am picking up. I know that I fall somewhere in the middle most of the time! Youth need to see the adults in their world set parameters and ask for help when needed.Yes, there are times when we are scrambling to hold everything. Be sure to stop and think about your bigger picture and what we teach young people when we must be “busy” all the time and can’t/won’t take time for a rest. That rest may be as simple as enjoying a star-filled sky, sharing a funny joke, or having lunch with a friend.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: Life's grocery store trips

They burn weeds, thaw ice, and they're made in America. More specifically, Weed Dragon Torch Kits are manufactured by Flame Engineering, Inc. in La Crosse. The Weed Dragon Torch, an organic and chemical-free method to control grass and weeds, was recently named a semifinalist in the Kansas Manufacturing Council's Coolest Thing Made in Kansas contest.&nbsp;

"Basically, we make a handheld, weed-burning torch," said Flame Engineering Owner Jason Pivonka. "From there, we've adapted that into smaller versions that are geared more toward the homeowner in an urban setting where they can do weeds and grass along a driveway or sidewalk. We've adapted that into roofing equipment for application of torch-down roofing. We've adapted that into larger ag equipment for weed control in row crops."

The products are used across the agricultural industry, including poultry house sanitation, flaming alfalfa for weevils, ground control in orchards and vineyards, and on potato vines and blueberry plants to enhance produce. 

Flame Engineering employs 30 full-time workers, as well as some part-time and independent sales rep agencies all over North America and into South America. Manufacturing the torches in La Crosse and using supply-chain vendors based in the U.S., the company proudly carries the Made in the U.S.A. sticker.

"Ours is one of the few that's made in the U.S.," Pivonka said. "Most of our competitors - and there aren't a lot of them but there are a few - they're made in China and that kind of thing. Ours are all made in the U.S. We get people who see that on our website and packaging and call us, and just think that's a far superior product, and they like to support their home country."

The company sells more than 100,000 handheld torches annually and has distributed to all seven continents at one time or another. All the while, the company operates safely, recently reaching 21 years without a lost-time accident. Flame Engineering was certified in Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program in 2000.

The manufacturing contest currently features many goods made in Kansas. The top 16 vote-getters will advance to a head-to-head contest before a winner is named. Vote in the contest by <a href="https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/HSH8PBG/2022PeoplesChoice">CLICKING HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662055310123.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThey burn weeds, thaw ice, and they're made in America. More specifically, Weed Dragon Torch Kits are manufactured by Flame Engineering, Inc. in La Crosse. The Weed Dragon Torch, an organic and chemical-free method to control grass and weeds, was recently named a semifinalist in the Kansas Manufacturing Council's Coolest Thing Made in Kansas contest.&nbsp;"Basically, we make a handheld, weed-burning torch," said Flame Engineering Owner Jason Pivonka. "From there, we've adapted that into smaller versions that are geared more toward the homeowner in an urban setting where they can do weeds and grass along a driveway or sidewalk. We've adapted that into roofing equipment for application of torch-down roofing. We've adapted that into larger ag equipment for weed control in row crops."The products are used across the agricultural industry, including poultry house sanitation, flaming alfalfa for weevils, ground control in orchards and vineyards, and on potato vines and blueberry plants to enhance produce. Flame Engineering employs 30 full-time workers, as well as some part-time and independent sales rep agencies all over North America and into South America. Manufacturing the torches in La Crosse and using supply-chain vendors based in the U.S., the company proudly carries the Made in the U.S.A. sticker."Ours is one of the few that's made in the U.S.," Pivonka said. "Most of our competitors - and there aren't a lot of them but there are a few - they're made in China and that kind of thing. Ours are all made in the U.S. We get people who see that on our website and packaging and call us, and just think that's a far superior product, and they like to support their home country."The company sells more than 100,000 handheld torches annually and has distributed to all seven continents at one time or another. All the while, the company operates safely, recently reaching 21 years without a lost-time accident. Flame Engineering was certified in Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program in 2000.The manufacturing contest currently features many goods made in Kansas. The top 16 vote-getters will advance to a head-to-head contest before a winner is named. Vote in the contest by <a href="https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/HSH8PBG/2022PeoplesChoice">CLICKING HERE</a>.

Hot & 'Cool': La Crosse company a finalist in manufacturing contest

The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, August 30, indicates increasing expansion
of severe drought and it’s creeping now into Barton County.&nbsp; Some rains after that date may help a bit in
parts of Western Kansas.&nbsp; Nothing more
needs to be said.&nbsp; Currently the outlook
for establishing and maintaining the 2023 wheat crop is bleak for many parts of
Kansas.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (September
6 to 10) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of above normal temperatures and normal
to a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation although that was the
prediction for the last week.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (September 8 to 14) indicates our area a 40 to 50%
chance of above temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; This past week, there are numerous stories
concerning the impending water crisis in Kansas agriculture.&nbsp; This week, let’s discuss what’s going on.&nbsp; The crisis is already here in some
areas.&nbsp; 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The state of Kansas and much of the
Great Plains region is experiencing a deepening water shortage.&nbsp; This impacts residential, industrial,
recreational, and agricultural users.&nbsp; And
the impact is felt across the state, not just Western Kansas.&nbsp; This week, a little background is in order on
how we got here.&nbsp; Next week – What we can
possibly do.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There
are four sources of water in Kansas depending on where you live: precipitation
from the sky; rivers flowing into Kansas such as the Republican and Arkansas
Rivers; reservoirs such as Kanopolis and Tuttle Creek, and finally
groundwater.&nbsp; What an area relies on
depends on where you are and whether or not a producer.&nbsp; 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These
stocks are replenished by precipitation, either falling in Kansas or
neighboring states.&nbsp; Reservoirs can
refill much more quickly than groundwater but experience more evaporative
loss.&nbsp; Groundwater doesn’t experience
evaporative loss but it took thousands of years to accumulate, especially as
you move from west to east you see a significant decrease in average yearly
precipitation.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Where
you live determines the largest consumptive user.&nbsp; For many especially in rural counties in the
west use is almost 100% agriculture.&nbsp; As
you move east, there is a trend for more residential and industrial use.&nbsp; The majority of irrigation water is
groundwater with some coming out of the Republican River for example.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We
have allocated more groundwater from east to west as rainfall declines
significantly heading towards Colorado.&nbsp;
From a crop production standpoint this makes sense.&nbsp; From a recharge and groundwater
sustainability issue, it makes absolutely no sense.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The
state regulates groundwater permitting.&nbsp;
The problem is we as a state have significantly overcommitted this
resource.&nbsp; We are withdrawing more than
is being added – depletion.&nbsp; And there
are compounding factors.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For
much of Kansas our summers are becoming hotter and drier.&nbsp; Less precipitation to recharge crops and less
precipitation means greater demand for groundwater.&nbsp; The flows from rivers coming from Nebraska
and Colorado have decreased.&nbsp; The state
has filed several lawsuits over not receiving promised flows from the Arkansas
River.&nbsp; The state won but little has
changed, especially with the long-term drought in the Rocky Mountains where the
water originates.&nbsp; And Kansas has
problems providing adequate flow to Oklahoma.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596200583759.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, August 30, indicates increasing expansion
of severe drought and it’s creeping now into Barton County.&nbsp; Some rains after that date may help a bit in
parts of Western Kansas.&nbsp; Nothing more
needs to be said.&nbsp; Currently the outlook
for establishing and maintaining the 2023 wheat crop is bleak for many parts of
Kansas.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (September
6 to 10) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of above normal temperatures and normal
to a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation although that was the
prediction for the last week.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (September 8 to 14) indicates our area a 40 to 50%
chance of above temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; This past week, there are numerous stories
concerning the impending water crisis in Kansas agriculture.&nbsp; This week, let’s discuss what’s going on.&nbsp; The crisis is already here in some
areas.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The state of Kansas and much of the
Great Plains region is experiencing a deepening water shortage.&nbsp; This impacts residential, industrial,
recreational, and agricultural users.&nbsp; And
the impact is felt across the state, not just Western Kansas.&nbsp; This week, a little background is in order on
how we got here.&nbsp; Next week – What we can
possibly do.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There
are four sources of water in Kansas depending on where you live: precipitation
from the sky; rivers flowing into Kansas such as the Republican and Arkansas
Rivers; reservoirs such as Kanopolis and Tuttle Creek, and finally
groundwater.&nbsp; What an area relies on
depends on where you are and whether or not a producer.&nbsp; ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These
stocks are replenished by precipitation, either falling in Kansas or
neighboring states.&nbsp; Reservoirs can
refill much more quickly than groundwater but experience more evaporative
loss.&nbsp; Groundwater doesn’t experience
evaporative loss but it took thousands of years to accumulate, especially as
you move from west to east you see a significant decrease in average yearly
precipitation.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Where
you live determines the largest consumptive user.&nbsp; For many especially in rural counties in the
west use is almost 100% agriculture.&nbsp; As
you move east, there is a trend for more residential and industrial use.&nbsp; The majority of irrigation water is
groundwater with some coming out of the Republican River for example.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We
have allocated more groundwater from east to west as rainfall declines
significantly heading towards Colorado.&nbsp;
From a crop production standpoint this makes sense.&nbsp; From a recharge and groundwater
sustainability issue, it makes absolutely no sense.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The
state regulates groundwater permitting.&nbsp;
The problem is we as a state have significantly overcommitted this
resource.&nbsp; We are withdrawing more than
is being added – depletion.&nbsp; And there
are compounding factors.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For
much of Kansas our summers are becoming hotter and drier.&nbsp; Less precipitation to recharge crops and less
precipitation means greater demand for groundwater.&nbsp; The flows from rivers coming from Nebraska
and Colorado have decreased.&nbsp; The state
has filed several lawsuits over not receiving promised flows from the Arkansas
River.&nbsp; The state won but little has
changed, especially with the long-term drought in the Rocky Mountains where the
water originates.&nbsp; And Kansas has
problems providing adequate flow to Oklahoma.Next week – What can we
do?

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - A Looming Water Crisis in Agriculture – Part I

On Saturday, September 10, Fort Larned National Historic Site and the Santa Fe Trail Center are teaming up to present a day of fun and fascination celebrating the scientific achievement of the James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;

On December 25, 2021, NASA launched the James Webb Space Telescope. According to NASA, Webb is the “worlds’ largest and most complex space science observatory”. Using infrared photography Webb will be able to “see” past the dense gas clouds that block visible light to reveal hidden secrets of the universe. &nbsp;

Webb is the latest step in the scientific journey to understand our universe. Although humans have been studying the night sky since antiquity, the age of modern astronomy started in the early 1800s when the invention of photography allowed scientists to record the stars. Most of these early astronomers were amateurs, including many Army medical officers, who were interested in all kinds of scientific discovery in addition to medicine. Fort Larned Post Surgeon Capt. William Forwood studied the night sky with a telescope and recorded his observations.&nbsp;

By the 20th century advances in photography and telescopes allowed for more discoveries in the solar system and the universe. Amateur astronomers were also being replaced by professional, college educated astronomers. Many got their start as amateurs with a burning desire to know more about space, such as Clyde Tombaugh from Burdett who used farm equipment to make a telescope and would eventually go on to discover Pluto.&nbsp;

All telescopes are time machines. The farther away we look in the universe, the further back in time we go. Join Fort Larned and the Santa Fe Trail Center as we step back in time and celebrate the wonderful scientific achievement of the Webb Space Telescope. &nbsp;

Schedule of Events for Saturday, September 10:&nbsp;

9 am to 11:30 am – Santa Fe Trail Center&nbsp;

Walk the Solar System – “planets” laid out in feet to illustrate the vast distances in our own solar system.&nbsp;

Hands on activity for the kids – Life Cycle of a Massive Star string bead activity Scheduled Program&nbsp;

11 am - From Clyde Tombaugh to James Webb&nbsp;

1:00 pm to 3:30 pm – Fort Larned NHS&nbsp;

Rotating display of Webb’s first images.&nbsp;

Hands on activities for the kids – Pack a Telescope and Nebula Spin Art &nbsp;

Display on the “Science Behind Webb”&nbsp;

Both events are free to the public, although the Santa Fe Trail Center does charge an entrance fee if you would like to go through their museum while there for the event.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp;&nbsp;Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;or by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_superintendent@nps.gov" target="_blank">fols_superintendent@nps.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Santa Fe Trail Center is located two miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrailcenter.org/" target="_blank">www.santafetrailcenter.org</a>, or by calling 620-285-2054.&nbsp;&nbsp;For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/" target="_blank">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call 620-285-6916.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662041087766.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, September 10, Fort Larned National Historic Site and the Santa Fe Trail Center are teaming up to present a day of fun and fascination celebrating the scientific achievement of the James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;On December 25, 2021, NASA launched the James Webb Space Telescope. According to NASA, Webb is the “worlds’ largest and most complex space science observatory”. Using infrared photography Webb will be able to “see” past the dense gas clouds that block visible light to reveal hidden secrets of the universe. &nbsp;Webb is the latest step in the scientific journey to understand our universe. Although humans have been studying the night sky since antiquity, the age of modern astronomy started in the early 1800s when the invention of photography allowed scientists to record the stars. Most of these early astronomers were amateurs, including many Army medical officers, who were interested in all kinds of scientific discovery in addition to medicine. Fort Larned Post Surgeon Capt. William Forwood studied the night sky with a telescope and recorded his observations.&nbsp;By the 20th century advances in photography and telescopes allowed for more discoveries in the solar system and the universe. Amateur astronomers were also being replaced by professional, college educated astronomers. Many got their start as amateurs with a burning desire to know more about space, such as Clyde Tombaugh from Burdett who used farm equipment to make a telescope and would eventually go on to discover Pluto.&nbsp;All telescopes are time machines. The farther away we look in the universe, the further back in time we go. Join Fort Larned and the Santa Fe Trail Center as we step back in time and celebrate the wonderful scientific achievement of the Webb Space Telescope. &nbsp;Schedule of Events for Saturday, September 10:&nbsp;9 am to 11:30 am – Santa Fe Trail Center&nbsp;Come and Go Events&nbsp;Walk the Solar System – “planets” laid out in feet to illustrate the vast distances in our own solar system.&nbsp;Hands on activity for the kids – Life Cycle of a Massive Star string bead activity Scheduled Program&nbsp;11 am - From Clyde Tombaugh to James Webb&nbsp;1:00 pm to 3:30 pm – Fort Larned NHS&nbsp;Come and Go Events&nbsp;Rotating display of Webb’s first images.&nbsp;Hands on activities for the kids – Pack a Telescope and Nebula Spin Art &nbsp;Display on the “Science Behind Webb”&nbsp;Both events are free to the public, although the Santa Fe Trail Center does charge an entrance fee if you would like to go through their museum while there for the event.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp;&nbsp;Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;or by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_superintendent@nps.gov" target="_blank">fols_superintendent@nps.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Santa Fe Trail Center is located two miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information on visiting is on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrailcenter.org/" target="_blank">www.santafetrailcenter.org</a>, or by calling 620-285-2054.&nbsp;&nbsp;For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/" target="_blank">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call 620-285-6916.&nbsp;

Schedule for Fort Larned's space adventure Sept. 10

Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce President Megan Barfield that aired Sept. 1, 2022.

The Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce President Megan Barfield that aired Sept. 1, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/i0g1ityo/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎧Chamber Connect show: President Megan Barfield

Those who are recovering from substance-use disorder have the chance to share their stories and inspire hope at an upcoming community-wide event.

“Recovery Out Loud” is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23 at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend. The second-annual gathering will last about two hours in observance of National Recovery Month.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to share personal experiences, while focusing on the meaningful benefits of being in recovery,” said Amy Ferguson, resource coordinator at the Barton County Health Department. “This is not just for those with substance-use disorder; it could also be recovery from a mental-health issue or some type of trauma.”

The open-to-the-public event is being presented under the umbrella of the Central Kansas Partnership. Rise Up Central Kansas is the host.

“These, and many other organizations are offering this local Recovery Out Loud event to help de-stigmatize mental-health concerns and seeking treatment for them,” Ferguson noted. “The goal is to send a positive message about recovery.

“People do recover,” she continued. “We want to lift people up so they can see the many benefits of treatment and start on their road to recovery. This disorder affects us all in some way; it has its tentacles in all of us.”

The speakers at Recovery Out Loud are clients of local organizations such as The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation.

“We asked many organizations to be involved; they all have said ‘yes,’” Ferguson commented. “Clients and staff at these agencies are asked to speak to the group and/or participate in the luminary-lighting part of the evening.”

Part of the luminary project is placing a positive message on the sacks holding the candles. Examples from more than 600 luminaires last year include:

· We are never so lost that angels can’t find us.

Julie Kramp, executive director of The Center, noted she and her colleagues “are thrilled to be partners in planning and participating in Recovery Out Loud. Amy and the health department, along with so many other people and agencies, should be commended for organizing this event.

“The turnout of about 200 people last year was great and we hope to top that this year,” Kramp added. “We encourage everyone to attend and hear a message of hope.”

Kramp noted that The Center has its substance-use license and is in the process of hiring therapists, while also partnering with Mirror in the local offices to provide treatment.

Jill Hulse and Scot Yarnell, nurse practitioners at The Center, offer medication-assisted treatment.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662041228245.jpeg" alt="Julie Kramp, left, and Amy Ferguson review some positive messages that were featured at last year’s Recovery Out Loud in preparation for this year’s event." />
 <figcaption>Julie Kramp, left, and Amy Ferguson review some positive messages that were featured at last year’s Recovery Out Loud in preparation for this year’s event.</figcaption>
 </figure>Those who are recovering from substance-use disorder have the chance to share their stories and inspire hope at an upcoming community-wide event.“Recovery Out Loud” is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23 at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend. The second-annual gathering will last about two hours in observance of National Recovery Month.“This is a wonderful opportunity to share personal experiences, while focusing on the meaningful benefits of being in recovery,” said Amy Ferguson, resource coordinator at the Barton County Health Department. “This is not just for those with substance-use disorder; it could also be recovery from a mental-health issue or some type of trauma.”The open-to-the-public event is being presented under the umbrella of the Central Kansas Partnership. Rise Up Central Kansas is the host.“These, and many other organizations are offering this local Recovery Out Loud event to help de-stigmatize mental-health concerns and seeking treatment for them,” Ferguson noted. “The goal is to send a positive message about recovery.“People do recover,” she continued. “We want to lift people up so they can see the many benefits of treatment and start on their road to recovery. This disorder affects us all in some way; it has its tentacles in all of us.”The speakers at Recovery Out Loud are clients of local organizations such as The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation.“We asked many organizations to be involved; they all have said ‘yes,’” Ferguson commented. “Clients and staff at these agencies are asked to speak to the group and/or participate in the luminary-lighting part of the evening.”Part of the luminary project is placing a positive message on the sacks holding the candles. Examples from more than 600 luminaires last year include:· You can be your own rainbow.· You are important.· We are never so lost that angels can’t find us.Julie Kramp, executive director of The Center, noted she and her colleagues “are thrilled to be partners in planning and participating in Recovery Out Loud. Amy and the health department, along with so many other people and agencies, should be commended for organizing this event.“The turnout of about 200 people last year was great and we hope to top that this year,” Kramp added. “We encourage everyone to attend and hear a message of hope.”Kramp noted that The Center has its substance-use license and is in the process of hiring therapists, while also partnering with Mirror in the local offices to provide treatment.Jill Hulse and Scot Yarnell, nurse practitioners at The Center, offer medication-assisted treatment.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

Great Bend community invited to Recovery Out Loud downtown Sept. 23

The City of Hoisington announced the splash pad, connected to the city pool, opened Friday, Sept. 2.

Due to concerns of vandalism, the restrooms in the splash pad area will not be opened.

The splash pad will be operational from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. until Oct. 1. Once entering the facility, you can turn the water on using the activator. The water should stay on for eight minutes.

The city encouraged users to be safe and do their part in keeping the attraction beautiful and clean.

The splash pad is part of a $3 million project that constructed a new pool at Bicentennial Park in Hoisington. The pool opened July 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657032187691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Hoisington announced the splash pad, connected to the city pool, opened Friday, Sept. 2.Due to concerns of vandalism, the restrooms in the splash pad area will not be opened.The splash pad will be operational from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. until Oct. 1. Once entering the facility, you can turn the water on using the activator. The water should stay on for eight minutes.The city encouraged users to be safe and do their part in keeping the attraction beautiful and clean.The splash pad is part of a $3 million project that constructed a new pool at Bicentennial Park in Hoisington. The pool opened July 1.

Hoisington's new splash pad is operating

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired Sept. 1, 2022.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired Sept. 1, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/tx2j1mli/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

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