Act Now!&nbsp;Protect Your Access to Atrazine Can you afford to spend more on inputs?&nbsp;While costs skyrocket, EPA is taking another swing at atrazine, disregarding sound science, transparency and regulatory framework.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=df7be094ad&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Please take two minutes to fill out the comment form and join us in stopping EPA</a>&nbsp;from using regulatory tricks to drastically limit your use of a critical input.

Included in more than 90 herbicide products across the U.S., limiting atrazine will have broad implications. Atrazine is utilized on 75 percent of U.S. sorghum acres, and the proposal will have drastic impacts on a large majority of those acres, significantly reducing application rates and requiring additional mitigation measures and reporting procedures. It also prohibits all aerial application and application during when rain is forecast within 48 hours.

Join us in the fight. Add your name to the long list of growers battling to stop EPA’s latest overreach.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9a59255792&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Tell EPA to stick to sound science and the 2020 finalized atrazine registration review</a>.&nbsp;Anything less is unacceptable. Sorghum Announced as Newest Addition to USDA Food Buying Guide In a major step forward for the sorghum industry, school foodservice providers and American schoolchildren, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently added sorghum, a nutrient-rich, high-protein, gluten-free ancient whole grain, to its Food Buying Guide for Child Nutrition Programs. The Food Buying Guide is the primary resource used by school foodservice directors to build menus that comply with USDA nutrition requirements. As of July 1, 2022, USDA has implemented a new requirement stating that at least 80 percent of the weekly grains in school lunch and breakfast menus must be whole-grain rich, which has resulted in school nutrition providers actively seeking foods that satisfy this requirement. As a nutrient-rich ancient whole grain, sorghum will prove to be the solution for school nutrition professionals for the upcoming school year and beyond. The United Sorghum Checkoff Program has worked with USDA to add sorghum to the Food Buying Guide with supporting efforts by National Sorghum Producers, Kansas Grain Sorghum, Kansas Department of Agriculture and more - a big team win for sorghum. You can&nbsp;read more about these efforts&nbsp;in the Spring edition of&nbsp;Sorghum Grower&nbsp;magazine. Read the full release from the Sorghum Checkoff&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=2b6f43b33a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE&nbsp;UPDATES

UAN Fertilizer Duties Struck Down by ITC The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that imports of urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) fertilizer from Russia and Trinidad and Tobago are not harming U.S. producers of UAN on Monday and that imports from these countries may resume without prohibitive duties. Farm groups welcomed the ruling.&nbsp;Fertilizer expert Josh Linville with Stone X Financial says the ruling means normal import flows should return. He says it should also cause the price per actual pound of Nitrogen differential between urea and UAN to narrow once again, which will lower UAN prices. Had the ITC found that the&nbsp;countries&nbsp;were still illegally dumping product onto the U.S. market at below their cost of production, it could not have ruled at it did as a matter of law. But, having found no dumping, the lifting of the duties was permissible. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8440c22e0c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6539c4070c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House Advances FY23 Appropriations Bill with A&amp;O Fix for Specialty Crops, Anti-Agriculture Amendments Ruled Out of Order&nbsp; The House of Representatives passed a package of six fiscal year 2023 appropriations bills on Wednesday, including the Agriculture Appropriations Bill which, in turn, provides equitable relief for specialty crop insurance policies under crop insurance. Specialty crop policies are experiencing a deep and harmful reduction due to a flaw in the cap on administrative and operating expenses under the contract between crop insurance and the companies. Anti-agriculture amendments, which are often offered during consideration of Agriculture Appropriations Bills were ruled out of order thanks to the hard work of champions on both sides of the political aisle. Read more on the package&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=2983813dd4&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Witnesses Before House Agriculture Subcommittee Urge Lawmakers to not only Do No Harm but Strengthen Crop Insurance Crop insurance stakeholders, including farmers, an agent, a company representative, and a crop insurance developer testified before an Agriculture Subcommittee on the vital importance of Federal Crop Insurance. Nearly all of the Subcommittee Members registered their strong support for equitable relief for specialty crop policies. Other topics discussed included the importance of a robust 508(h) private policy submission process. Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS) observed, “We’ve got to acknowledge the program has to work for the producer, but it also has to work for the insurance agents who are delivering that product and are boots on the ground.” View the hearing&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=451f87bece&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Biden Calls Climate ‘an Emergency’ as He Prepares Executive Actions President Biden said he considered the environmental risks created by climate change to be “an emergency” and signaled plans to use his presidential powers “to turn these words into a formal, official government action.” “Let me be clear: Climate change is an emergency,” Mr. Biden said, adding that he plans to announce formal actions in the “coming weeks.” The announcement follows an unraveling of a reconciliation package in the Senate to address climate and a Supreme Court ruling barring regulation of greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=92519ea81b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Senators Receive Warning the Global Food Crisis Stands to Worsen The Executive Director of the World Food Program Mr. David Beasley believes the global food crisis stands to worsen in 2023 because of the reductions in farm production due to the increased input costs. Beasley informed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that 50 million people across 45 countries already face famine this year. Furthermore, the current droughts occurring across much of the Western United States, and throughout Africa, are also a factor in the loss of production for the current year. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=61c01ba1bd&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Food Aid Slammed By UN Over Shipping Costs&nbsp; The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) Executive Director, David Beasley, slammed food aid due to transportation costs and advocated cash aid instead despite inherent flaws in cash aid. Nevertheless, this will certainly be an issue in the 2023 Farm Bill debate given the heightened attention. Sorghum is one of the most important food aid commodities provided by the U.S. and National Sorghum Producers will remain engaged as these conversations about WFP move forward. Listen for more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b37ac4ddf9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Team Sorghum Takes Home Eight&nbsp;ACN Awards This past week, Team Sorghum's Communications Teams spent the week in Raleigh, North Carolina, for Ag Media Summit, the largest gathering of the agriculture industry's top writers, editors, photographers, publishers&nbsp;and strategic communicators in the U.S. During this time, the Agricultural Communicators Network (ACN), formerly theAmerican Agricultural Editors' Association (AAEA), hosted its annual communications awards ceremony where USCP and NSP placed top three in eight categories, four of them being first place. Below are the winnings: 1. NSP&nbsp;Sorghum Grower&nbsp;magazine, 1st place, Publication: Print or Electronic (Not-For-Profit) 2. USCP Annual Report, 1st place 3. USCP Website, 1st place&nbsp; 4. USCP, Photography, 1st place, Digital Enhancement Photography Category&nbsp; 5. USCP, Photography, 2nd Place Digital Enhancement Photography Category&nbsp; 6. USCP, Photography, 3rd place Digital Enhancement Photography Category 7. USCP Sorghum: Smart Talk Podcast, 2nd place 8. USCP Food &amp; Nutritional Ad for the American Cancer Institute, 3rd place &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=6ca9357ec9&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 U Wheat U Registration Open Sorghum U Wheat U, hosted by High Plains Journal, is set for Aug 11 in Wichita, Kansas. This is a free, one-day, educational event. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. and includes a farmer panel discussion made up of sorghum and wheat farmers across the High Plains. There are several breakout sessions planned including a presentation on Resource Conservation in Action: Big benefits from a Small Grain by National Sorghum Producers and Sorghum Checkoff Sustainability Director, Adam York. There will also be a discussion on sorghum weed control with Sorghum Checkoff Director of Agronomy Brent Bean, Ph.D., and Past Chairman Kent Martin, Ph.D. For more information regarding Sorghum U Wheat U and to register for the event, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9f7dd0e004&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">https://www.hpj.com/suwu/</a>.&nbsp; Sorghum Checkoff Still Accepting Applications to Leadership Sorghum The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is accepting applications for&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e222031780&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Leadership Sorghum</a>&nbsp;Class VI, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of sorghum leaders. During the 14-month leadership program, class members will have the opportunity to experience various aspects of the sorghum 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=2357af8e38&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 Sorghum, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=15d24f0c17&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Sorghum Crop Update By July 17, twenty-nine percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, 3 percentage points behind last year and 2 points behind the 5-year average. With progress limited to Texas, coloring advanced to 17 percent, equal to last year but 1 percentage point behind the average. Thirty-five percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on July 17. 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=0e870698ff&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=376c956083&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">USDA Adds Sorghum to Food buying Guide For Child Nutrition Programs</a>&nbsp;- World Grain <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ea1a167640&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Food Crisis: Could Sorghum and Millet Replace Maize?</a>&nbsp;- BBC News <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=bf1276c5f5&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum Announced as Newest Addition to USDA Food Buying Guide</a>&nbsp;- GrainNet <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0f02864cb1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Why Sorghum Is About to be Used in US School Lunch Programs</a>&nbsp;- Tasting Table <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5e4104b26a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Managing the Prussic Acid Hazard in Sorghum&nbsp;</a>- No-Till Farmer

Upcoming Events August 1 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Vietnam Trade Mission August 2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ba78ad12c0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Mid-South Ruminant Nutrition Conference</a>&nbsp;- Grapevine, TX August 11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7b6e0eaf6d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1af5b6b646&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;U</a>&nbsp;- Wichita, KS August 15 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=610970c3b0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">World Aquaculture Society, Aquaculture Conference</a>&nbsp;- Newfoundland, Canada August 15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; NSP Board Meeting - Wichita, KS August 17&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USCP Board Meeting - Wichita, KS September 5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Labor Day-Office Closed October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8443326c0a&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=3e20b6630a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Export Exchange</a> Market News&nbsp;-&nbsp;To view this week’s Gulf export grain report, click&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a755bace22&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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Act Now!&nbsp;Protect Your Access to Atrazine Can you afford to spend more on inputs?&nbsp;While costs skyrocket, EPA is taking another swing at atrazine, disregarding sound science, transparency and regulatory framework.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=df7be094ad&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Please take two minutes to fill out the comment form and join us in stopping EPA</a>&nbsp;from using regulatory tricks to drastically limit your use of a critical input.Included in more than 90 herbicide products across the U.S., limiting atrazine will have broad implications. Atrazine is utilized on 75 percent of U.S. sorghum acres, and the proposal will have drastic impacts on a large majority of those acres, significantly reducing application rates and requiring additional mitigation measures and reporting procedures. It also prohibits all aerial application and application during when rain is forecast within 48 hours.Join us in the fight. Add your name to the long list of growers battling to stop EPA’s latest overreach.&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9a59255792&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Tell EPA to stick to sound science and the 2020 finalized atrazine registration review</a>.&nbsp;Anything less is unacceptable. Sorghum Announced as Newest Addition to USDA Food Buying Guide In a major step forward for the sorghum industry, school foodservice providers and American schoolchildren, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently added sorghum, a nutrient-rich, high-protein, gluten-free ancient whole grain, to its Food Buying Guide for Child Nutrition Programs. The Food Buying Guide is the primary resource used by school foodservice directors to build menus that comply with USDA nutrition requirements. As of July 1, 2022, USDA has implemented a new requirement stating that at least 80 percent of the weekly grains in school lunch and breakfast menus must be whole-grain rich, which has resulted in school nutrition providers actively seeking foods that satisfy this requirement. As a nutrient-rich ancient whole grain, sorghum will prove to be the solution for school nutrition professionals for the upcoming school year and beyond. The United Sorghum Checkoff Program has worked with USDA to add sorghum to the Food Buying Guide with supporting efforts by National Sorghum Producers, Kansas Grain Sorghum, Kansas Department of Agriculture and more - a big team win for sorghum. You can&nbsp;read more about these efforts&nbsp;in the Spring edition of&nbsp;Sorghum Grower&nbsp;magazine. Read the full release from the Sorghum Checkoff&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=2b6f43b33a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE&nbsp;UPDATESUAN Fertilizer Duties Struck Down by ITC The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that imports of urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) fertilizer from Russia and Trinidad and Tobago are not harming U.S. producers of UAN on Monday and that imports from these countries may resume without prohibitive duties. Farm groups welcomed the ruling.&nbsp;Fertilizer expert Josh Linville with Stone X Financial says the ruling means normal import flows should return. He says it should also cause the price per actual pound of Nitrogen differential between urea and UAN to narrow once again, which will lower UAN prices. Had the ITC found that the&nbsp;countries&nbsp;were still illegally dumping product onto the U.S. market at below their cost of production, it could not have ruled at it did as a matter of law. But, having found no dumping, the lifting of the duties was permissible. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8440c22e0c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6539c4070c&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House Advances FY23 Appropriations Bill with A&amp;O Fix for Specialty Crops, Anti-Agriculture Amendments Ruled Out of Order&nbsp; The House of Representatives passed a package of six fiscal year 2023 appropriations bills on Wednesday, including the Agriculture Appropriations Bill which, in turn, provides equitable relief for specialty crop insurance policies under crop insurance. Specialty crop policies are experiencing a deep and harmful reduction due to a flaw in the cap on administrative and operating expenses under the contract between crop insurance and the companies. Anti-agriculture amendments, which are often offered during consideration of Agriculture Appropriations Bills were ruled out of order thanks to the hard work of champions on both sides of the political aisle. Read more on the package&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=2983813dd4&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Witnesses Before House Agriculture Subcommittee Urge Lawmakers to not only Do No Harm but Strengthen Crop Insurance Crop insurance stakeholders, including farmers, an agent, a company representative, and a crop insurance developer testified before an Agriculture Subcommittee on the vital importance of Federal Crop Insurance. Nearly all of the Subcommittee Members registered their strong support for equitable relief for specialty crop policies. Other topics discussed included the importance of a robust 508(h) private policy submission process. Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS) observed, “We’ve got to acknowledge the program has to work for the producer, but it also has to work for the insurance agents who are delivering that product and are boots on the ground.” View the hearing&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=451f87bece&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Biden Calls Climate ‘an Emergency’ as He Prepares Executive Actions President Biden said he considered the environmental risks created by climate change to be “an emergency” and signaled plans to use his presidential powers “to turn these words into a formal, official government action.” “Let me be clear: Climate change is an emergency,” Mr. Biden said, adding that he plans to announce formal actions in the “coming weeks.” The announcement follows an unraveling of a reconciliation package in the Senate to address climate and a Supreme Court ruling barring regulation of greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=92519ea81b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Senators Receive Warning the Global Food Crisis Stands to Worsen The Executive Director of the World Food Program Mr. David Beasley believes the global food crisis stands to worsen in 2023 because of the reductions in farm production due to the increased input costs. Beasley informed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that 50 million people across 45 countries already face famine this year. Furthermore, the current droughts occurring across much of the Western United States, and throughout Africa, are also a factor in the loss of production for the current year. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=61c01ba1bd&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Food Aid Slammed By UN Over Shipping Costs&nbsp; The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) Executive Director, David Beasley, slammed food aid due to transportation costs and advocated cash aid instead despite inherent flaws in cash aid. Nevertheless, this will certainly be an issue in the 2023 Farm Bill debate given the heightened attention. Sorghum is one of the most important food aid commodities provided by the U.S. and National Sorghum Producers will remain engaged as these conversations about WFP move forward. Listen for more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b37ac4ddf9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. ORGANIZATION UPDATESTeam Sorghum Takes Home Eight&nbsp;ACN Awards This past week, Team Sorghum's Communications Teams spent the week in Raleigh, North Carolina, for Ag Media Summit, the largest gathering of the agriculture industry's top writers, editors, photographers, publishers&nbsp;and strategic communicators in the U.S. During this time, the Agricultural Communicators Network (ACN), formerly theAmerican Agricultural Editors' Association (AAEA), hosted its annual communications awards ceremony where USCP and NSP placed top three in eight categories, four of them being first place. Below are the winnings: 1. NSP&nbsp;Sorghum Grower&nbsp;magazine, 1st place, Publication: Print or Electronic (Not-For-Profit) 2. USCP Annual Report, 1st place 3. USCP Website, 1st place&nbsp; 4. USCP, Photography, 1st place, Digital Enhancement Photography Category&nbsp; 5. USCP, Photography, 2nd Place Digital Enhancement Photography Category&nbsp; 6. USCP, Photography, 3rd place Digital Enhancement Photography Category 7. USCP Sorghum: Smart Talk Podcast, 2nd place 8. USCP Food &amp; Nutritional Ad for the American Cancer Institute, 3rd place &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=6ca9357ec9&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 U Wheat U Registration Open Sorghum U Wheat U, hosted by High Plains Journal, is set for Aug 11 in Wichita, Kansas. This is a free, one-day, educational event. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. and includes a farmer panel discussion made up of sorghum and wheat farmers across the High Plains. There are several breakout sessions planned including a presentation on Resource Conservation in Action: Big benefits from a Small Grain by National Sorghum Producers and Sorghum Checkoff Sustainability Director, Adam York. There will also be a discussion on sorghum weed control with Sorghum Checkoff Director of Agronomy Brent Bean, Ph.D., and Past Chairman Kent Martin, Ph.D. For more information regarding Sorghum U Wheat U and to register for the event, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9f7dd0e004&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">https://www.hpj.com/suwu/</a>.&nbsp; Sorghum Checkoff Still Accepting Applications to Leadership Sorghum The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is accepting applications for&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e222031780&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Leadership Sorghum</a>&nbsp;Class VI, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of sorghum leaders. During the 14-month leadership program, class members will have the opportunity to experience various aspects of the sorghum 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=2357af8e38&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 Sorghum, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=15d24f0c17&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Sorghum Crop Update By July 17, twenty-nine percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, 3 percentage points behind last year and 2 points behind the 5-year average. With progress limited to Texas, coloring advanced to 17 percent, equal to last year but 1 percentage point behind the average. Thirty-five percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on July 17. 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=0e870698ff&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=376c956083&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">USDA Adds Sorghum to Food buying Guide For Child Nutrition Programs</a>&nbsp;- World Grain <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ea1a167640&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Food Crisis: Could Sorghum and Millet Replace Maize?</a>&nbsp;- BBC News <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=bf1276c5f5&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum Announced as Newest Addition to USDA Food Buying Guide</a>&nbsp;- GrainNet <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=0f02864cb1&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Why Sorghum Is About to be Used in US School Lunch Programs</a>&nbsp;- Tasting Table <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5e4104b26a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Managing the Prussic Acid Hazard in Sorghum&nbsp;</a>- No-Till FarmerUpcoming Events August 1 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Vietnam Trade Mission August 2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ba78ad12c0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Mid-South Ruminant Nutrition Conference</a>&nbsp;- Grapevine, TX August 11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7b6e0eaf6d&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1af5b6b646&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;U</a>&nbsp;- Wichita, KS August 15 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=610970c3b0&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">World Aquaculture Society, Aquaculture Conference</a>&nbsp;- Newfoundland, Canada August 15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; NSP Board Meeting - Wichita, KS August 17&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; USCP Board Meeting - Wichita, KS September 5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Labor Day-Office Closed October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=8443326c0a&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=3e20b6630a&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Export Exchange</a> Market News&nbsp;-&nbsp;To view this week’s Gulf export grain report, click&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=a755bace22&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

KIOWA COUNTY –A Kansas man has died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; Gage L.&nbsp; Hosheit, 33, Greensburg, was southbound on 33rd&nbsp; Avenue five miles north of U.S. 54.

The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, re-entered the roadway, traveled across both lanes of traffic and rolled.

EMS transported Hosheit to&nbsp;Kiowa County Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

KIOWA COUNTY –A Kansas man has died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; Gage L.&nbsp; Hosheit, 33, Greensburg, was southbound on 33rd&nbsp; Avenue five miles north of U.S. 54.The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, re-entered the roadway, traveled across both lanes of traffic and rolled.EMS transported Hosheit to&nbsp;Kiowa County Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies from injuries in rollover crash

Great Bend Police: Behind the badge

United Way of Central Kansas hosted their annual Stuff the Bus event on July 20. This event brings together all of UWCK’s 22 Community Partners to collect supplies to supplement the services these agencies provide throughout the year.

Items requested are used to stock backpacks for students in need, items for the non-food pantry at Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, toiletry supplies for Family Crisis Center, pantry staples for the Hoisington Food Bank, as well as supplies for the individual agencies to use throughout the year to help keep expenses down. School supplies donated will not only support local backpack programs, but also be distributed to the school districts to have additional supplies on hand throughout the year.

“The generosity of our communities never ceases to amaze me," said Charell Owings, UWCK executive director. "The number of individuals and businesses who donate each year is humbling. The impact of this event is far-reaching, touching youth heading off to school, the elderly who don’t have the funds for hygiene supplies, and victims of violence who need a safe place to heal. These donations affect so many in our community and UWCK is proud to continue bringing this program to Barton County.”

Dianne Call has been the Stuff the Bus coordinator in Great Bend for years. Kay Wilbur is also a great asset who helps organize everything once all the supplies are in. Toni Schneweis and the entire group at the Hoisington Community Food Bank have taken this event and ran with it. 

"These women see the impact of the program and are the reason why this is successful each year," said Owings. "We also rely on our Community Partners and community volunteers to help encourage donations at each of our locations; Wal Mart, Dillons, Town &amp; Country Supermarket and Dollar General-Hoisington. The partnership with USD 428 and USD 431 is also integral-those buses parked in front of the stores catches the eye and inspires people to donate."

For more information on how UWCK is impacting the community you can follow United Way of Central Kansas on Facebook, check out their website, www.uwck.org or give them a call at 620-792-2403.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658762127296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Central Kansas hosted their annual Stuff the Bus event on July 20. This event brings together all of UWCK’s 22 Community Partners to collect supplies to supplement the services these agencies provide throughout the year.Items requested are used to stock backpacks for students in need, items for the non-food pantry at Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, toiletry supplies for Family Crisis Center, pantry staples for the Hoisington Food Bank, as well as supplies for the individual agencies to use throughout the year to help keep expenses down. School supplies donated will not only support local backpack programs, but also be distributed to the school districts to have additional supplies on hand throughout the year.“The generosity of our communities never ceases to amaze me," said Charell Owings, UWCK executive director. "The number of individuals and businesses who donate each year is humbling. The impact of this event is far-reaching, touching youth heading off to school, the elderly who don’t have the funds for hygiene supplies, and victims of violence who need a safe place to heal. These donations affect so many in our community and UWCK is proud to continue bringing this program to Barton County.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658762156537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dianne Call has been the Stuff the Bus coordinator in Great Bend for years. Kay Wilbur is also a great asset who helps organize everything once all the supplies are in. Toni Schneweis and the entire group at the Hoisington Community Food Bank have taken this event and ran with it. "These women see the impact of the program and are the reason why this is successful each year," said Owings. "We also rely on our Community Partners and community volunteers to help encourage donations at each of our locations; Wal Mart, Dillons, Town &amp; Country Supermarket and Dollar General-Hoisington. The partnership with USD 428 and USD 431 is also integral-those buses parked in front of the stores catches the eye and inspires people to donate."For more information on how UWCK is impacting the community you can follow United Way of Central Kansas on Facebook, check out their website, www.uwck.org or give them a call at 620-792-2403.

Another successful 'Stuff the Bus' event for United Way

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

It took some time but the city of Hoisington hopes it was worth the wait. In January 2021 the city received the 15 bicycles for its Cardinal Cruisers bike sharing program. On Monday, the program officially went public.

"It's such a neat opportunity and it wouldn't have been possible without a bunch of generous donors," said Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell. "Our hospital took the lead with this, with the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant they received. They gave a significant amount money toward this project, and so did the Golden Belt Community Foundation. It's really come together. It's been a cool deal. It's taken a little longer than we'd hoped, but we're excited to finally be going live with it."

All the bicycles were purchased from Golden Belt Bicycle in Great Bend. Darren Stanley with South 281 Custom Upholstery painted the bikes a matching red color, and First Class Auto Design handled the decals.

The 15 bikes will be available for free checkout at one of four locations throughout Hoisington: the city billing office, the Hoisington Public Library, the Hoisington Rec Commission at the Activity Center, and Rodeway Inn &amp; Suites. Using a shared document at those locations, the city will keep an updated list of which bikes have been checked in or out and from which location. It's a lower-tech but much cheaper version of some app-driven share programs.

"We looked at those and there are some cool bikes that are available, and some other communities in the state have them, but they were like $1,500-$2,000 a year and you would just lease the bikes," Mitchell said. "Here, we were able to raise the funds to get the bikes all donated. We bought them locally, they were painted locally, First Class Auto Design did all the decals for them. We were able to do all that locally for less than what it could cost to lease a bike through another program."

While most of the bikes are of the standard single-speed variety, the city did mix it up with a side-by-side trike and two tandem bicycles.

Parties interested in checking out a bike must be at least 18 years of age, have a photo ID, and sign a waiver. Minors that are at least 12 years of age may check out a bike with a guardian who can sign a waiver on their behalf and provide a photo ID. Helmets are recommended but not required.

The bikes will be available for checkout during the riding months but will go back into storage from Nov. 15 until March 15, 2023. 

"What we heard from other bike-share programs around the country was they highly recommended pulling them inside for the winter months to extend the life of the bike," said Mitchell. "That will give us a chance to get them all tuned up before they go out again in the spring."

The Cardinal Cruiser program is just another new feature for Hoisington, which also opened its new swimming pool in July.

"We're just grateful for all of our partners helping to make this possible," Mitchell said. "I feel like we're rolling out a lot of new things for our community and that wouldn't be possible without the support of a lot of folks."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658759444909.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt took some time but the city of Hoisington hopes it was worth the wait. In January 2021 the city received the 15 bicycles for its Cardinal Cruisers bike sharing program. On Monday, the program officially went public."It's such a neat opportunity and it wouldn't have been possible without a bunch of generous donors," said Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell. "Our hospital took the lead with this, with the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant they received. They gave a significant amount money toward this project, and so did the Golden Belt Community Foundation. It's really come together. It's been a cool deal. It's taken a little longer than we'd hoped, but we're excited to finally be going live with it."All the bicycles were purchased from Golden Belt Bicycle in Great Bend. Darren Stanley with South 281 Custom Upholstery painted the bikes a matching red color, and First Class Auto Design handled the decals.The 15 bikes will be available for free checkout at one of four locations throughout Hoisington: the city billing office, the Hoisington Public Library, the Hoisington Rec Commission at the Activity Center, and Rodeway Inn &amp; Suites. Using a shared document at those locations, the city will keep an updated list of which bikes have been checked in or out and from which location. It's a lower-tech but much cheaper version of some app-driven share programs."We looked at those and there are some cool bikes that are available, and some other communities in the state have them, but they were like $1,500-$2,000 a year and you would just lease the bikes," Mitchell said. "Here, we were able to raise the funds to get the bikes all donated. We bought them locally, they were painted locally, First Class Auto Design did all the decals for them. We were able to do all that locally for less than what it could cost to lease a bike through another program."While most of the bikes are of the standard single-speed variety, the city did mix it up with a side-by-side trike and two tandem bicycles.Parties interested in checking out a bike must be at least 18 years of age, have a photo ID, and sign a waiver. Minors that are at least 12 years of age may check out a bike with a guardian who can sign a waiver on their behalf and provide a photo ID. Helmets are recommended but not required.The bikes will be available for checkout during the riding months but will go back into storage from Nov. 15 until March 15, 2023. "What we heard from other bike-share programs around the country was they highly recommended pulling them inside for the winter months to extend the life of the bike," said Mitchell. "That will give us a chance to get them all tuned up before they go out again in the spring."The Cardinal Cruiser program is just another new feature for Hoisington, which also opened its new swimming pool in July."We're just grateful for all of our partners helping to make this possible," Mitchell said. "I feel like we're rolling out a lot of new things for our community and that wouldn't be possible without the support of a lot of folks."

Free to ride: Cardinal Cruiser bikes now available in Hoisington

After several weeks of investigation, Barton County Sheriff’s Office detectives executed a search warrant on Friday, July 22. The warrant was executed about 7:30 p.m. in the 1300 block of Cherry Lane, in the city of Great Bend at an apartment complex. 

Sheriff’s deputies forced entry into the apartment after the occupant failed to answer the door. The suspect and a juvenile were located inside.

The suspect identified as Heath Urban, age 38 of Great Bend, was arrested at the scene for distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school and aggravated child endangerment. Urban remains in jail as of this morning and is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond. 

The child was released to a family member.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658766697920.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After several weeks of investigation, Barton County Sheriff’s Office detectives executed a search warrant on Friday, July 22. The warrant was executed about 7:30 p.m. in the 1300 block of Cherry Lane, in the city of Great Bend at an apartment complex. Sheriff’s deputies forced entry into the apartment after the occupant failed to answer the door. The suspect and a juvenile were located inside.The suspect identified as Heath Urban, age 38 of Great Bend, was arrested at the scene for distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school and aggravated child endangerment. Urban remains in jail as of this morning and is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond. The child was released to a family member.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658766719847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Drug distributor arrested in Great Bend; child released to family

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas Director for Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that USDA is investing $2,268,200 toward eight community projects across the state.

“Investment in public infrastructure and facilities is essential for economic development in Kansas communities,” Davis said. “USDA Rural Development is proud to assist in projects that serve rural residents and businesses.”

Background: The Rural Business Development Grant program is designed to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Small means that the business has fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue.

The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage. The program serves people and businesses in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less. The Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant program provides funding for essential community facilities and services. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized Native American tribes. 

Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less. The SEARCH-Special Evaluation and Assistance for Rural Communities and Households program helps very small, financially distressed rural communities with predevelopment feasibility studies, design and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects. 

The Water and Waste Disposal Predevelopment Planning Grant program assists low-income communities with initial planning and development of applications for USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal direct loan/grant and loan guarantee programs.

Project details of today’s eight announcements are:

· A $33,000 grant will assist Thrive Allen County, Inc. with a Feasibility Study to create an incubator/accelerator space for Allen County. The space would increase economic development by creating an inviting, supportive space for entrepreneurs in the area.

· A $202,000 grant will assist The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, in conjunction with partners Pittsburg State University Small Business

Development Center and Kansas Works, expand services to small businesses. Assistance provided will include access to local employment opportunities, increased access in business education, workforce development, and job training opportunities. It is anticipated that 100 full time jobs will be created.

· A $30,200 grant will help purchase a fully equipped patrol vehicle to enhance the work of the City of South Hutchinson's Police Department.

· A $55,000 loan and a $35,000 grant will help purchase four transportation vehicles for individuals with developmental disabilities in Marshall and Washington Counties. The three transport vehicles and one maintenance truck will replace older vehicles with high mileage and high maintenance costs. Once all the vehicles are put into service, they will meet the basic needs of the individuals with developmental disabilities for many years to come.

· A $577,000 loan and a $291,000 grant will provide additional funding for renovating the water and sewer system in the City of Caney. Funds previously obligated for this project include $600,000 from the Kansas Department of Commerce and loans and grants totaling $4,765,800 from USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal.

· A $24,000 grant will be used toward an engineer to evaluate the current wastewater system for the City of Susank. A preliminary Engineering Report will outline any appropriate corrective actions needed.

· A $479,000 loan and a $512,000 grant will supplement previous funding for improvements to the water supply system of the City of Caldwell. Funds already assigned to this project include a prior award from Rural Development's Water and Waste Disposal Loan in the amount of $1,558,000 and Kansas Department of Commerce-Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $600,000. This project ensures that the city will have safe and reliable water for many years to come.

· A $30,000 grant will be used to evaluate the wastewater collection system and treatment facility in La Harpe. An engineer will evaluate the current system and propose a plan for repairing and modernizing the water system. Once completed the city will have the information needed to develop a final wastewater system project. To learn more about investment resources for rural areas, contact a USDA Rural Development state office.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. USDA is building more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets, new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food, investing in infrastructure and clean energy in rural America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov. If you would like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562944742118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas Director for Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that USDA is investing $2,268,200 toward eight community projects across the state.“Investment in public infrastructure and facilities is essential for economic development in Kansas communities,” Davis said. “USDA Rural Development is proud to assist in projects that serve rural residents and businesses.”Background: The Rural Business Development Grant program is designed to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Small means that the business has fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue. The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage. The program serves people and businesses in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less. The Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant program provides funding for essential community facilities and services. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less. The SEARCH-Special Evaluation and Assistance for Rural Communities and Households program helps very small, financially distressed rural communities with predevelopment feasibility studies, design and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects. The Water and Waste Disposal Predevelopment Planning Grant program assists low-income communities with initial planning and development of applications for USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal direct loan/grant and loan guarantee programs.Project details of today’s eight announcements are:· A $33,000 grant will assist Thrive Allen County, Inc. with a Feasibility Study to create an incubator/accelerator space for Allen County. The space would increase economic development by creating an inviting, supportive space for entrepreneurs in the area.· A $202,000 grant will assist The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, in conjunction with partners Pittsburg State University Small BusinessDevelopment Center and Kansas Works, expand services to small businesses. Assistance provided will include access to local employment opportunities, increased access in business education, workforce development, and job training opportunities. It is anticipated that 100 full time jobs will be created.· A $30,200 grant will help purchase a fully equipped patrol vehicle to enhance the work of the City of South Hutchinson's Police Department.· A $55,000 loan and a $35,000 grant will help purchase four transportation vehicles for individuals with developmental disabilities in Marshall and Washington Counties. The three transport vehicles and one maintenance truck will replace older vehicles with high mileage and high maintenance costs. Once all the vehicles are put into service, they will meet the basic needs of the individuals with developmental disabilities for many years to come.· A $577,000 loan and a $291,000 grant will provide additional funding for renovating the water and sewer system in the City of Caney. Funds previously obligated for this project include $600,000 from the Kansas Department of Commerce and loans and grants totaling $4,765,800 from USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal.· A $24,000 grant will be used toward an engineer to evaluate the current wastewater system for the City of Susank. A preliminary Engineering Report will outline any appropriate corrective actions needed.· A $479,000 loan and a $512,000 grant will supplement previous funding for improvements to the water supply system of the City of Caldwell. Funds already assigned to this project include a prior award from Rural Development's Water and Waste Disposal Loan in the amount of $1,558,000 and Kansas Department of Commerce-Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $600,000. This project ensures that the city will have safe and reliable water for many years to come.· A $30,000 grant will be used to evaluate the wastewater collection system and treatment facility in La Harpe. An engineer will evaluate the current system and propose a plan for repairing and modernizing the water system. Once completed the city will have the information needed to develop a final wastewater system project. To learn more about investment resources for rural areas, contact a USDA Rural Development state office.USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. USDA is building more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets, new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food, investing in infrastructure and clean energy in rural America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov. If you would like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.

Susank receives USDA grant for wastewater project

Barton County Commission election preview - District 5

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/22) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:45 a.m. the K-9 was called out at 1164 SE 40 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Utility Problems 
 
At 5:52 p.m. utility problems were reported at 2022 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2816 20th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:01 p.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood. 
 
7/23 
 
Burglary / In Progress 
 
At 12:27 a.m. a burglary was reported at 119 8th Street in Claflin. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:51 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 7:55 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 150 Road &amp; N. US 281
Highway in Hoisington. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 8:58 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 2nd &amp; Main. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 9:36 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 85 S. US 281 Highway. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 12:26 p.m. an animal complaint was reported NW 90 Road &amp; NW 110 Avenue. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:05 p.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 5:21 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 130 Avenue &amp; NW K-96 Highway
in Albert. 
 
Heat Exposure 
 
At 9:17 p.m. a heat exposure was reported at 5540 2nd Street Lot A. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 9:20 p.m. an accident was reported at 2061 Susank Road in Susank. 
 
Gas Leak / Spill 
 
At 10:30 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 5005 2nd Avenue in
Albert. 
 
7/24 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:41 a.m. an accident was reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 3:48 a.m. a trespassing report was made at 1221 10th Street. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:35 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway at MM 118 in Hoisington. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 10:07 a.m. a narcotics violation was reported at 51 S. Washington Avenue. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 2:29 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2500 block of Railroad Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:16 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NW 140
Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:27 p.m. an accident was reported at 412 N. US 281 Highway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/22) 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:45 a.m. the K-9 was called out at 1164 SE 40 Road in Ellinwood. 
 
Utility Problems 
 
At 5:52 p.m. utility problems were reported at 2022 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2816 20th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:01 p.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood. 
 
7/23 
 
Burglary / In Progress 
 
At 12:27 a.m. a burglary was reported at 119 8th Street in Claflin. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:51 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56 Highway. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 7:55 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 150 Road &amp; N. US 281
Highway in Hoisington. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 8:58 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 2nd &amp; Main. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 9:36 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 85 S. US 281 Highway. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 12:26 p.m. an animal complaint was reported NW 90 Road &amp; NW 110 Avenue. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:05 p.m. an accident was reported in the 900 block of N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 5:21 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NW 130 Avenue &amp; NW K-96 Highway
in Albert. 
 
Heat Exposure 
 
At 9:17 p.m. a heat exposure was reported at 5540 2nd Street Lot A. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 9:20 p.m. an accident was reported at 2061 Susank Road in Susank. 
 
Gas Leak / Spill 
 
At 10:30 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 5005 2nd Avenue in
Albert. 
 
7/24 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 1:41 a.m. an accident was reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 3:48 a.m. a trespassing report was made at 1221 10th Street. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:35 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway at MM 118 in Hoisington. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 10:07 a.m. a narcotics violation was reported at 51 S. Washington Avenue. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 2:29 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2500 block of Railroad Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:16 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281 Highway &amp; NW 140
Road. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 10:27 p.m. an accident was reported at 412 N. US 281 Highway.

Cop Shop (7/22 - 7/24)

7/22 BOOKED: Dustin Ellis on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jordan Holley on Barton County District Court warrant to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Justus Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $115.00 cash only.

BOOKED: Heath Urban on Barton County Sheriff's Office case for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Aggravated Endangering a Child, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Christopher Maher on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery, after no charges filed. Released to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

RELEASED: Dustin Ellis on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Nathan Manley on two Barton County District Court cases, released to corrections.

RELEASED: Crystal Bates on two Barton County District Court cases, to probation.

RELEASED: Eric Ramos on two Barton County District Court cases, to probation.

RELEASED: Justus Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $115 cash bond.

7/23 BOOKED: Selena Armstrong on Barton County District Court case for burglary, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Deontre Hardiman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Tera Bailey on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.

BOOKED: Cody Helsel on Barton County District Court case for Speed and DUI, third or subsequent conviction with 10 years, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Johnny Wallace on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, third or consecutive, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Leslie Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Shawn Stenberg on Ford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $490.00 cash only.

BOOKED: Eric Zecha on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Christian Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for No Drivers License and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Deontre Hardiman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Criminal Damage to Property, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Cody Helsel on Barton County District Court case for Speed and DUI, third or subsequent conviction with 10 years, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Leslie Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond.

RELEASED: Shawn Stenberg on Ford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a cash bond of $490.

RELEASED: Eric Zecha on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Selena Armstrong on Barton County District Court case for burglary, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Christian Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for No Drivers License and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

7/23 BOOKED: Juan Mendez on Barton County District Court case for DUI 2nd, No Drivers License, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Transporting an Open Container, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Rogelio Sanchez, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Michelle Bailon on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Martin Leyva-Balanzar on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Maxine Moreno on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Interference with Child Custody, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Juan Mendez on Barton County District Court case for DUI 2nd, No Drivers License, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Transporting an Open Container, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Johnny Wallace on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, third or consecutive, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Rogelio Sanchez, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Michelle Bailon on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Martin Leyva-Balanzar on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case, after serving sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/22 BOOKED: Dustin Ellis on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jordan Holley on Barton County District Court warrant to serve sentence.BOOKED: Justus Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $115.00 cash only.BOOKED: Heath Urban on Barton County Sheriff's Office case for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Aggravated Endangering a Child, bond set at $100,000 C/S.RELEASED: Christopher Maher on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery, after no charges filed. Released to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.RELEASED: Dustin Ellis on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Nathan Manley on two Barton County District Court cases, released to corrections.RELEASED: Crystal Bates on two Barton County District Court cases, to probation.RELEASED: Eric Ramos on two Barton County District Court cases, to probation.RELEASED: Justus Romine on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $115 cash bond.7/23 BOOKED: Selena Armstrong on Barton County District Court case for burglary, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Deontre Hardiman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Tera Bailey on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.BOOKED: Cody Helsel on Barton County District Court case for Speed and DUI, third or subsequent conviction with 10 years, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Johnny Wallace on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, third or consecutive, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Leslie Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Shawn Stenberg on Ford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $490.00 cash only.BOOKED: Eric Zecha on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Christian Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for No Drivers License and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case to serve sentence.RELEASED: Deontre Hardiman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Criminal Damage to Property, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Cody Helsel on Barton County District Court case for Speed and DUI, third or subsequent conviction with 10 years, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Leslie Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond.RELEASED: Shawn Stenberg on Ford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a cash bond of $490.RELEASED: Eric Zecha on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Selena Armstrong on Barton County District Court case for burglary, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Christian Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for No Drivers License and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.7/23 BOOKED: Juan Mendez on Barton County District Court case for DUI 2nd, No Drivers License, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Transporting an Open Container, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Rogelio Sanchez, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Michelle Bailon on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Martin Leyva-Balanzar on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Maxine Moreno on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Interference with Child Custody, bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Juan Mendez on Barton County District Court case for DUI 2nd, No Drivers License, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Transporting an Open Container, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Johnny Wallace on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, third or consecutive, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Rogelio Sanchez, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Michelle Bailon on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Martin Leyva-Balanzar on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Julio Ayala on Great Bend Municipal Court case, after serving sentence.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (7/22-7/24)

Each September, Kansas is witness to one of the most impressive migrations in all of nature. Millions of monarch butterflies, weighing less than a gram but still able to travel up to 30 miles an hour, travel through the Midwest on the way from Canada to Mexico. The annual migration, which includes between three and five generations of butterflies, is a natural phenomenon.

University of Kansas Professor Chip Taylor studies monarchs and founded Monarch Watch. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms has participated in the organization's monarch tagging program each year since its inception.

"Kansas is monarch central because Chip Taylor is one of the top monarch researchers in the world," said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Educator Pam Martin. "What he's determining is how the migration works, what's happening and why, so we can stabilize the migration." 

Now the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has placed the monarch butterfly on its "red list" as an endangered species. Unlike the U.S. Endangered Species List, the IUCN list carries no legal weight, but it does indicate great peril for the species.

"The monarch goes through three countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico," said Martin. "Those three countries have an agreement to promote the monarch butterfly and save habitat. That's the big one. Habitat loss is major. By planting native and planting milkweed, you're helping to mitigate some of that habitat loss."

IUCN estimates monarch numbers have declined between 22 percent and 72 percent over the past decade, depending on the measurement method. Numbers may be down by as much as 85 or 95 percent east of the Rockies over the last 30 years. Along with loss of habitat, climate change and pesticide use are two other possible factors in declining numbers.

"It's everything," said Martin. "It's a perfect storm. In a way, they're an indicator species. Monarch butterflies are beautiful and they're wonderful - they're one of my favorite insects. But they're not the only insect this is happening to. We're losing bumble bee species and other pollinator species. They call it the 'insect apocalypse.'"

Martin said there are things people can do to help boost monarch numbers, namely planting native wildflowers and limiting pesticide use. Milkweed is the most important native plant as it is the monarch's only caterpillar host plant.

Not only are monarchs a beautiful component of nature, but as pollinators that travel across the borders of three countries and many more states, their survival is essential to many ecosystems. 

"The fact that they can migrate over 2,000 miles, and do this with the information stored in their heads, is unbelievable," Martin said. "It would be devastating to lose that migration behavior. It's a wonder of the natural world."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658431552974.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEach September, Kansas is witness to one of the most impressive migrations in all of nature. Millions of monarch butterflies, weighing less than a gram but still able to travel up to 30 miles an hour, travel through the Midwest on the way from Canada to Mexico. The annual migration, which includes between three and five generations of butterflies, is a natural phenomenon.University of Kansas Professor Chip Taylor studies monarchs and founded Monarch Watch. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms has participated in the organization's monarch tagging program each year since its inception."Kansas is monarch central because Chip Taylor is one of the top monarch researchers in the world," said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Educator Pam Martin. "What he's determining is how the migration works, what's happening and why, so we can stabilize the migration." Now the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has placed the monarch butterfly on its "red list" as an endangered species. Unlike the U.S. Endangered Species List, the IUCN list carries no legal weight, but it does indicate great peril for the species."The monarch goes through three countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico," said Martin. "Those three countries have an agreement to promote the monarch butterfly and save habitat. That's the big one. Habitat loss is major. By planting native and planting milkweed, you're helping to mitigate some of that habitat loss."IUCN estimates monarch numbers have declined between 22 percent and 72 percent over the past decade, depending on the measurement method. Numbers may be down by as much as 85 or 95 percent east of the Rockies over the last 30 years. Along with loss of habitat, climate change and pesticide use are two other possible factors in declining numbers."It's everything," said Martin. "It's a perfect storm. In a way, they're an indicator species. Monarch butterflies are beautiful and they're wonderful - they're one of my favorite insects. But they're not the only insect this is happening to. We're losing bumble bee species and other pollinator species. They call it the 'insect apocalypse.'"Martin said there are things people can do to help boost monarch numbers, namely planting native wildflowers and limiting pesticide use. Milkweed is the most important native plant as it is the monarch's only caterpillar host plant.Not only are monarchs a beautiful component of nature, but as pollinators that travel across the borders of three countries and many more states, their survival is essential to many ecosystems. "The fact that they can migrate over 2,000 miles, and do this with the information stored in their heads, is unbelievable," Martin said. "It would be devastating to lose that migration behavior. It's a wonder of the natural world."

Endangered monarch butterflies no stranger to Kansas skies

Today A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 93. East northeast wind 7 to 13 mph.

Tonight A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East northeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 91. Northeast wind 6 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

Tuesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Wednesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 87. East wind 5 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.

Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Friday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 78.

Friday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 83.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 93. East northeast wind 7 to 13 mph.Tonight A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East northeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 91. Northeast wind 6 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.Tuesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Wednesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 87. East wind 5 to 9 mph.Wednesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.Thursday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.Friday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 78.Friday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 83.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's Weather

Hear this month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired July 21, 2022.

The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 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 month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired July 21, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/5qmqk02r/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎤Focus on Ellinwood show

Great Bend Code Enforcement is noting several instances of tall weeds and grasses growing along curbs and rights-of-way, on otherwise properly maintained properties. Therefore, we would like to clarify citizen’s responsibilities regarding mowing and trimming of properties.  

City ordinance 15.70.010 states: It is unlawful for an owner, agent, lessee, tenant, or other person occupying or having charge or control of any premises to permit weeds to remain upon such premises or any area between the property lines of such premises and the centerline of any adjacent street or alley, including but not specifically limited to sidewalks, streets, alleys, easement, rights-of-way, and all other areas, public or private. 

Code Enforcement is asking citizens to please trim the weeds when mowing.  Failure to do so, constitutes a violation and may result in abatement penalties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658521634793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Great Bend...Great Bend Code Enforcement is noting several instances of tall weeds and grasses growing along curbs and rights-of-way, on otherwise properly maintained properties. Therefore, we would like to clarify citizen’s responsibilities regarding mowing and trimming of properties. City ordinance 15.70.010 states: It is unlawful for an owner, agent, lessee, tenant, or other person occupying or having charge or control of any premises to permit weeds to remain upon such premises or any area between the property lines of such premises and the centerline of any adjacent street or alley, including but not specifically limited to sidewalks, streets, alleys, easement, rights-of-way, and all other areas, public or private. Code Enforcement is asking citizens to please trim the weeds when mowing. Failure to do so, constitutes a violation and may result in abatement penalties.

Great Bend noticing several cases of weeds growing along curbs

If you have medications that are expired or no longer needed, you can now more easily and safely dispose of them in Great Bend. The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus has added a medication disposal container for public use near the emergency room registration desk.

“There wasn’t anywhere in Great Bend for people to easily dispose of their medications on a regular basis,” said Paige Nordman, pharmacist, who proposed the hospital add the service. “People would come into the pharmacy and ask us to take medications they no longer needed, and we can’t do that.”

“This service also eliminates the potential for people who are not prescribed the medications to have access to them,” said Jared Smith, director of pharmacy.

People can drop off prescription medications, including controlled substances such as opioids, and over-the-counter medications. Liquid medications must have less than 4 ounces in them and be sealed in a zip-close bag. Drugs should be disposed of in their original containers. Labels may be left on all containers, including prescription bottles. No one will have access to your medications after you dispose of them.

Some items that can’t be accepted include illegal drugs, inhalers or other aerosols, needles or syringes, and radiopharmaceuticals or chemotherapy drugs.

Collected drugs are routinely shipped to an incineration facility when the disposal bin is full.

“Medication disposal is an important service that is available to anyone in the community,” said Josh Gant, director of ancillary and support services. “People often don’t know what to do with old medications and this service makes it easier to dispose of them.”

The disposal bin is located in the waiting area of the hospital emergency room, near the registration desk. There is no fee to dispose of your medications and no information is collected from people who use it. It is available 5 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658434581301.jpeg" alt="The medication disposal bin was proposed by Paige Nordman, pharmacist (pictured at right), and supported by Jared Smith, director of pharmacy (pictured at left)." />
 <figcaption>The medication disposal bin was proposed by Paige Nordman, pharmacist (pictured at right), and supported by Jared Smith, director of pharmacy (pictured at left).</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have medications that are expired or no longer needed, you can now more easily and safely dispose of them in Great Bend. The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus has added a medication disposal container for public use near the emergency room registration desk.“There wasn’t anywhere in Great Bend for people to easily dispose of their medications on a regular basis,” said Paige Nordman, pharmacist, who proposed the hospital add the service. “People would come into the pharmacy and ask us to take medications they no longer needed, and we can’t do that.”“This service also eliminates the potential for people who are not prescribed the medications to have access to them,” said Jared Smith, director of pharmacy.People can drop off prescription medications, including controlled substances such as opioids, and over-the-counter medications. Liquid medications must have less than 4 ounces in them and be sealed in a zip-close bag. Drugs should be disposed of in their original containers. Labels may be left on all containers, including prescription bottles. No one will have access to your medications after you dispose of them.Some items that can’t be accepted include illegal drugs, inhalers or other aerosols, needles or syringes, and radiopharmaceuticals or chemotherapy drugs.Collected drugs are routinely shipped to an incineration facility when the disposal bin is full.“Medication disposal is an important service that is available to anyone in the community,” said Josh Gant, director of ancillary and support services. “People often don’t know what to do with old medications and this service makes it easier to dispose of them.”The disposal bin is located in the waiting area of the hospital emergency room, near the registration desk. There is no fee to dispose of your medications and no information is collected from people who use it. It is available 5 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.

Safe medication disposal now accessible in Great Bend

The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, July 19 indicates worsening conditions
our area as we continue in moderate drought, although the northeast tip of the
county is still abnormally dry.&nbsp; Severe
drought is creeping eastward into Barton County and envelopes almost all of Pawnee
and Stafford Counties.&nbsp; Much of the
western third of the state is in extreme or exceptional drought.&nbsp; The very western counties on the Colorado
border have seen a little rain over the last week and aren’t quite as severe.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (July 26 to 30) indicates
a 40 to 50% chance of above normal temperatures and believe it or not, a 50 to 60%
chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The
eight to fourteen-day outlook (July 28 to August 3) indicates a continued 40 to
50% chance of above normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The precipitation, if it happens, might
benefit late corn some but the biggest benefit would be for grain sorghum and
soybeans.&nbsp; Last week we discussed
possible changes to cropping systems and cultural practices.&nbsp; Today, how might our actual crops adapt or
change.

Before looking forward to adapting
to a changing climate.&nbsp; Let’s look back,
to say 1990.&nbsp; Dryland crops were
primarily wheat, grain sorghum, and some alfalfa.&nbsp; Continuous wheat was common.&nbsp; There was very little dryland corn from here
west.&nbsp; Dryland soybeans were essentially
nonexistent.&nbsp; Cotton south of Barton
County was also absent.&nbsp; Fast forward to
today and see fields of dryland corn, soybeans, and south of here cotton
acreage.&nbsp; Near the Oklahoma border we
find winter canola.&nbsp; Triticale is slowly
gaining a foothold.&nbsp; There is relatively
little continuous wheat.&nbsp; The point is,
agriculture in this area and in Western Kansas has changed dramatically before
and it will again.&nbsp; So, what are some
possible changes to our crops.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Technology,
both conventional breeding and genetic engineering, will help our current crops
adapt.&nbsp; Crops can be, up to a point, be
made more drought and pest tolerant.&nbsp;
More and diverse pest and herbicide resistance will be engineered
through convention breeding or as GMOs.&nbsp;
It won’t solve all issues but it can help. 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Irrigators,
especially west of Barton, must conserve and more efficiently use irrigation
water.&nbsp; Shorter season corn hybrids are a
good example.&nbsp; Where appropriate, more
cotton.&nbsp; Grain sorghum hybrids are another
good option, especially food grade sorghums.&nbsp;
Perhaps, with better cultivars, especially those tolerant to 2,4-D and
dicamba, an increase in oil sunflower seed production.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While
dryland corn and soybean acreage won’t totally disappear, it’s likely acreage
will shift to crops requiring less water and are more forgiving such as grain
sorghum, cotton, or even more forage crops.&nbsp;
Dryland corn and soybean acreage will also benefit from more drought
tolerant breeding activities.&nbsp; Also, a
shift to much shorter season corn hybrids to attempt to use less water and try
to plant them early and hope to pollinate and develop seed as early as
possible.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since
our major crops, outside of wheat, are used primarily as cattle feed, we may
see a shift to more perennial and annual hay/pasture.

This is just an idea of
what may be done to adapt.&nbsp; Producers
have changed their cultural practices and crops in Kansas for over 150 years to
stay in business and will continue to do so.

<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, July 19 indicates worsening conditions
our area as we continue in moderate drought, although the northeast tip of the
county is still abnormally dry.&nbsp; Severe
drought is creeping eastward into Barton County and envelopes almost all of Pawnee
and Stafford Counties.&nbsp; Much of the
western third of the state is in extreme or exceptional drought.&nbsp; The very western counties on the Colorado
border have seen a little rain over the last week and aren’t quite as severe.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (July 26 to 30) indicates
a 40 to 50% chance of above normal temperatures and believe it or not, a 50 to 60%
chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The
eight to fourteen-day outlook (July 28 to August 3) indicates a continued 40 to
50% chance of above normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The precipitation, if it happens, might
benefit late corn some but the biggest benefit would be for grain sorghum and
soybeans.&nbsp; Last week we discussed
possible changes to cropping systems and cultural practices.&nbsp; Today, how might our actual crops adapt or
change.Before looking forward to adapting
to a changing climate.&nbsp; Let’s look back,
to say 1990.&nbsp; Dryland crops were
primarily wheat, grain sorghum, and some alfalfa.&nbsp; Continuous wheat was common.&nbsp; There was very little dryland corn from here
west.&nbsp; Dryland soybeans were essentially
nonexistent.&nbsp; Cotton south of Barton
County was also absent.&nbsp; Fast forward to
today and see fields of dryland corn, soybeans, and south of here cotton
acreage.&nbsp; Near the Oklahoma border we
find winter canola.&nbsp; Triticale is slowly
gaining a foothold.&nbsp; There is relatively
little continuous wheat.&nbsp; The point is,
agriculture in this area and in Western Kansas has changed dramatically before
and it will again.&nbsp; So, what are some
possible changes to our crops.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Technology,
both conventional breeding and genetic engineering, will help our current crops
adapt.&nbsp; Crops can be, up to a point, be
made more drought and pest tolerant.&nbsp;
More and diverse pest and herbicide resistance will be engineered
through convention breeding or as GMOs.&nbsp;
It won’t solve all issues but it can help. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Irrigators,
especially west of Barton, must conserve and more efficiently use irrigation
water.&nbsp; Shorter season corn hybrids are a
good example.&nbsp; Where appropriate, more
cotton.&nbsp; Grain sorghum hybrids are another
good option, especially food grade sorghums.&nbsp;
Perhaps, with better cultivars, especially those tolerant to 2,4-D and
dicamba, an increase in oil sunflower seed production.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While
dryland corn and soybean acreage won’t totally disappear, it’s likely acreage
will shift to crops requiring less water and are more forgiving such as grain
sorghum, cotton, or even more forage crops.&nbsp;
Dryland corn and soybean acreage will also benefit from more drought
tolerant breeding activities.&nbsp; Also, a
shift to much shorter season corn hybrids to attempt to use less water and try
to plant them early and hope to pollinate and develop seed as early as
possible.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since
our major crops, outside of wheat, are used primarily as cattle feed, we may
see a shift to more perennial and annual hay/pasture.This is just an idea of
what may be done to adapt.&nbsp; Producers
have changed their cultural practices and crops in Kansas for over 150 years to
stay in business and will continue to do so.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Crops and Climate Change

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Kory Brunson is originally from Great Bend and has toured the country
over the years as part of the Kory Brunson Band. Brunson will return to Great
Bend Aug. 13 as the headliner for this year’s Party in the Park. 
The 10th annual festival will begin at 8:30 a.m. with an obstacle
mud run and will include events such as a kite display, wet/dry parade, food and a car show. 
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said Brunson is also part of a
band called “Crash Dadeez” and will perform a kids concert to open the musical
acts. "So this year, we're opening the gates for the first two hours and it will be a kids concert," said Hayes. "Kids will get in free with their paying adult. We'll have Fool House, coming from Florida, the ultimate 90s dance party. We'll have our fireworks and end with the Kory Brunson Band." 
Party in the Park takes place at Veterans Memorial Park.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658372960760.jpeg" alt="Great Bend native Kory Brunson will return to Great Bend Aug. 13 for Party in the Park. (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KoryBrunsonBand">Kory Brunson Band photo</a>)" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend native Kory Brunson will return to Great Bend Aug. 13 for Party in the Park. (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KoryBrunsonBand">Kory Brunson Band photo</a>)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostKory Brunson is originally from Great Bend and has toured the country
over the years as part of the Kory Brunson Band. Brunson will return to Great
Bend Aug. 13 as the headliner for this year’s Party in the Park. 
The 10th annual festival will begin at 8:30 a.m. with an obstacle
mud run and will include events such as a kite display, wet/dry parade, food and a car show. 
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said Brunson is also part of a
band called “Crash Dadeez” and will perform a kids concert to open the musical
acts. "So this year, we're opening the gates for the first two hours and it will be a kids concert," said Hayes. "Kids will get in free with their paying adult. We'll have Fool House, coming from Florida, the ultimate 90s dance party. We'll have our fireworks and end with the Kory Brunson Band." 
Party in the Park takes place at Veterans Memorial Park.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658373291902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend native Kory Brunson to perform at Party in the Park

For every Blizzard Dairy Queen sells on July 28, they will make a donation to Children's Miracle Network (CMN). Every cent raised will stay in Kansas to help local kids. 

Last year, they set a new record with 1,313 Blizzards. They challenged customers to help them sell over 1,000 and Great Bend came through, so Dairy Queen Great Bend doubled their donation to CMN. It will be the same bet this time, but Dairy Queen is setting the bar at 1,500.

For large orders, Dairy Queen is requesting that customers use the form (click the button below to download) and submit it to DQ by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 27. This method allows DQ to give customers a product that won't be melted by the time they are ready to eat it. It also helps their machines handle the extra load.

Phone number is 620-793-8961 and the CMN email is&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lunsforddqcakes@yahoo.com?subject=Miracle%20treat%20Day" target="_blank">lunsforddqcakes@yahoo.com</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=34659781&amp;msgid=779401&amp;act=I8WF&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1813865&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticapp.icpsc.com%2Ficp%2Fresources%2Fmogile%2F116427%2Fdcf58427d8f6b10c58e37b46506ce8fc.pdf%3Ff_type%3Dfile%26f_name%3DBlizzard%2520Treat%2520Day%25202022%2520Chamber%2520Insert.pdf&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=4e0f36e22f48390747250dd3a4f3de7764c4977bdfb758a8445de15f9e27e567" target="_blank">Download Form</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584644023788.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFor every Blizzard Dairy Queen sells on July 28, they will make a donation to Children's Miracle Network (CMN). Every cent raised will stay in Kansas to help local kids. Last year, they set a new record with 1,313 Blizzards. They challenged customers to help them sell over 1,000 and Great Bend came through, so Dairy Queen Great Bend doubled their donation to CMN. It will be the same bet this time, but Dairy Queen is setting the bar at 1,500.For large orders, Dairy Queen is requesting that customers use the form (click the button below to download) and submit it to DQ by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 27. This method allows DQ to give customers a product that won't be melted by the time they are ready to eat it. It also helps their machines handle the extra load.Phone number is 620-793-8961 and the CMN email is&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lunsforddqcakes@yahoo.com?subject=Miracle%20treat%20Day" target="_blank">lunsforddqcakes@yahoo.com</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=34659781&amp;msgid=779401&amp;act=I8WF&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1813865&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticapp.icpsc.com%2Ficp%2Fresources%2Fmogile%2F116427%2Fdcf58427d8f6b10c58e37b46506ce8fc.pdf%3Ff_type%3Dfile%26f_name%3DBlizzard%2520Treat%2520Day%25202022%2520Chamber%2520Insert.pdf&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=4e0f36e22f48390747250dd3a4f3de7764c4977bdfb758a8445de15f9e27e567" target="_blank">Download Form</a>

Dairy Queen Miracle Treat Day is July 28 in Great Bend

Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.

Here is a sampling of stories from last week:

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post

<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.Here is a sampling of stories from last week:<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

News From Around the Post News Network

The League of Women Voters of Great Bend hosted a forum with all Barton County Commission candidates for Districts 1, 4, and 5 Thursday evening at the Senior Center in Great Bend. District 4 incumbent Jon Prescott and challenger Tricia Schlessiger were part of the panel that each answered four questions.

Both candidates said they would like to see increased involvement in Pawnee Rock. Prescott said he would like to see the community on the west edge of the county restored.

"We've already started over in Pawnee Rock," he said. "Three months ago, I formed a committee of six individuals in that area. We've already applied for a grant to start cleaning up that town and getting it back to what it was when we were kids. When I was a child, grade school, junior high, that was the field trip to go to Pawnee Rock. It was a thriving little community. We want that back.

"We've got a lot of things going on because there are some great historic sites over there, some beautiful homes that could be redone. We've already had meetings with the state historic preservation office out of Topeka. We've really got a lot of momentum going on."

Each candidate also spoke of housing issues in the county. Schlessiger said a data-driven approach is needed to fit the needs of a new generation of homebuyers. 

"It's the data that's telling us that, for decades, it was you go to college, you leave, you're never coming back," she said. "This is no longer the case. Here in the nation's heartland, we're facing an unprecedented surge in housing demand. This is partly driven by the Millenials, which are those born from 1981 to 1996, which is now the nation's largest generation, and they're all becoming homeowners on a massive scale. 

"This generation is different. We have to look towards them for the future. They desire different types of housing. They want clean houses with hard floors. Eighty-five percent of them want dogs and cats. They also want to work from home. They're bringing their jobs with them. This is not traditional housing needs. We have to follow the data we've been given, and there are huge amounts of that out there right now with all the surveys in place. This generation is going to be different, and it's going to change the landscape of our county."

Early voting in the county began July 18 and runs through Aug. 1 at noon. This year's primary election is Aug. 2.

Click <a href="https://fb.watch/eqqTnENy1a/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to watch the full candidate forum.

Eagle Radio will continue previews of each race/candidate throughout the next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658499368448.png" alt="Jon Prescott (sitting on the far left) and Tricia Schlessiger (standing) are running for the District 4 seat on the Barton County Commission." />
 <figcaption>Jon Prescott (sitting on the far left) and Tricia Schlessiger (standing) are running for the District 4 seat on the Barton County Commission.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe League of Women Voters of Great Bend hosted a forum with all Barton County Commission candidates for Districts 1, 4, and 5 Thursday evening at the Senior Center in Great Bend. District 4 incumbent Jon Prescott and challenger Tricia Schlessiger were part of the panel that each answered four questions.Both candidates said they would like to see increased involvement in Pawnee Rock. Prescott said he would like to see the community on the west edge of the county restored."We've already started over in Pawnee Rock," he said. "Three months ago, I formed a committee of six individuals in that area. We've already applied for a grant to start cleaning up that town and getting it back to what it was when we were kids. When I was a child, grade school, junior high, that was the field trip to go to Pawnee Rock. It was a thriving little community. We want that back."We've got a lot of things going on because there are some great historic sites over there, some beautiful homes that could be redone. We've already had meetings with the state historic preservation office out of Topeka. We've really got a lot of momentum going on."Each candidate also spoke of housing issues in the county. Schlessiger said a data-driven approach is needed to fit the needs of a new generation of homebuyers. "It's the data that's telling us that, for decades, it was you go to college, you leave, you're never coming back," she said. "This is no longer the case. Here in the nation's heartland, we're facing an unprecedented surge in housing demand. This is partly driven by the Millenials, which are those born from 1981 to 1996, which is now the nation's largest generation, and they're all becoming homeowners on a massive scale. "This generation is different. We have to look towards them for the future. They desire different types of housing. They want clean houses with hard floors. Eighty-five percent of them want dogs and cats. They also want to work from home. They're bringing their jobs with them. This is not traditional housing needs. We have to follow the data we've been given, and there are huge amounts of that out there right now with all the surveys in place. This generation is going to be different, and it's going to change the landscape of our county."Early voting in the county began July 18 and runs through Aug. 1 at noon. This year's primary election is Aug. 2.Click <a href="https://fb.watch/eqqTnENy1a/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to watch the full candidate forum.Eagle Radio will continue previews of each race/candidate throughout the next week.

Barton County Commission election preview - District 4

After graduating from Ellsworth High School, Kaden Davis had
one offer to play junior college football. The former Class 3A football player
from Ellsworth, Kansas is now competing for a roster spot in the NFL for the
Denver Broncos. 
 
Davis noted there were moments during his sophomore and junior years at
Ellsworth that told him he wanted to keep pursuing football past high school. 
 
“I found out through track that I have the speed to do this,” said Davis. “I
thought with my athletic ability, playing three sports, I had the potential to
make it this far. I just had to stick to the process.” 
 
Davis broke his wrist his junior year at Ellsworth and missed a few games
because of the injury. Watching his teammates play only reinforced his love for
the game. 
 
“I was able to train at the Sharp Performance in Salina that summer, and they
were able to help me reach my potential,” said Davis. “They helped me see a
vision that it would be possible to do all this.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429673509.png" alt="2017 Ellsworth High School graduate Kaden Davis is working out with the Denver Broncos this offseason. (Denver Broncos Football Club photo, <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/">denverbroncos.com</a>)" />
 <figcaption>2017 Ellsworth High School graduate Kaden Davis is working out with the Denver Broncos this offseason. (Denver Broncos Football Club photo, <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/">denverbroncos.com</a>)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter graduating from Ellsworth High School, Kaden Davis had
one offer to play junior college football. The former Class 3A football player
from Ellsworth, Kansas is now competing for a roster spot in the NFL for the
Denver Broncos. 
 
Davis noted there were moments during his sophomore and junior years at
Ellsworth that told him he wanted to keep pursuing football past high school. 
 
“I found out through track that I have the speed to do this,” said Davis. “I
thought with my athletic ability, playing three sports, I had the potential to
make it this far. I just had to stick to the process.” 
 
Davis broke his wrist his junior year at Ellsworth and missed a few games
because of the injury. Watching his teammates play only reinforced his love for
the game. 
 
“I was able to train at the Sharp Performance in Salina that summer, and they
were able to help me reach my potential,” said Davis. “They helped me see a
vision that it would be possible to do all this.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429771323.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis had 29 receptions for 837 yards and 15 touchdowns in nine games his
senior year at Ellsworth. In 2017, he became the fourth player in Ellsworth
school history, and first since 1992, to be selected to the Kansas Shrine Bowl.
 
 
Talking with collegiate coaches, Davis was told he didn’t get the exposure
other kids were getting at bigger schools and colleges questioned the athletes he was
facing. With a few walk-on opportunities, Davis took his lone offer from Butler
Community College to play wide receiver. 
 
“Arriving to fall camp at Butler was overwhelming for the first couple of
weeks,” said Davis. “That was my first time learning a college offense. I was
adjusting to playing against press coverage and guys that may have been Division
I bounce backs and more developed.” 
 
Primarily used as a punt returner his first year at Butler, Davis had 21
catches for 245 yards and a touchdown his sophomore year for the Grizzlies. 
 
“I had a pretty good idea of what I would be going against for that sophomore
year,” said Davis. “I put my foot on the gas that offseason so I could get
myself to a good program after Butler.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429832027.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (#13) - (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (#13) - (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>After leaving Butler, Kansas State University wanted Davis to walk-on to their
football program. Davis also had offers from Northwest Missouri State
University, Emporia State University and Pittsburg State University. 
 
“I took a visit out to Northwest Missouri and really enjoyed the culture,” said
Davis. “They had good facilities allowing you to train all through the winter." 
 
Davis became a Bearcat again, spending three years at Northwest Missouri. The
Division II university in Maryville, Missouri is a national powerhouse in
football, having won six national championships. 
 
“I didn’t have a great junior year at Northwest,” said Davis. “I didn’t have
much on the stat sheet or much for film. I just stuck to the process, kept
grinding the next couple of years, knowing my opportunity was going to come
soon.” 
 
Davis had a COVID-19 pandemic year in 2020-2021 where there was no official
season. His fifth year out of high school, and senior year at Northwest, Davis
led the Bearcats with 10 touchdown receptions while gaining 703 yards receiving.
Northwest finished 11-2 and made a run in the Division II playoffs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429904211.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Not being at a Division I school kind of hurts for getting looks at the NFL,”
said Davis. “My grandpa and family always told me ‘if you’re good enough, they
will find you.’ That’s what happened.” 
 
Almost immediately after his senior season at Northwest, Davis was getting in
contact with Michael Johnson Performance in Texas to train. Davis also competed
in the College Gridiron Showcase last January in Fort Worth, Texas. 
 
“That showcase allowed me to go against Division I, FBS, Power 5 guys,” said
Davis. “That showcase allowed me to get looks and speak with NFL scouts.” 
 
When the NFL Draft rolled around in late April, Davis was hopeful to hear his
name called. Out of the 262 selections made in seven rounds, Davis was not
selected by an NFL team. 
 
“A couple teams told me I was on their board,” said Davis. “I got my first call
at the end of the sixth round, and I thought that was going to be a pick. It
turned out to be my first offer for free agency.” 
 
Going undrafted, Davis had a few teams to choose from to work out as a free
agent, but ultimately chose Denver. 
 
“Denver reached out to me during the seventh round,” said Davis. “I got to talk
with head coach Nathaniel Hackett. I felt comfortable with the things he was
telling me. It felt like a good fit.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429965066.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis playing for Ellsworth High School" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis playing for Ellsworth High School</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis arrived to Denver and spent five weeks going through the team’s organized
team activities (OTAs) and minicamp. The boy from Ellsworth, Kansas, whom
received one offer to play collegiate football, practicing with NFL veterans at
the highest level. 
 
“My first day was surreal,” said Davis. “It’s everything you dream about as a
kid and then you’re finally in the facility doing it for real. It felt good.” 
 
Out of all the Broncos players Davis has worked out with so far, he said cornerback
Pat Surtain II has impressed him the most. 
 
Now waiting for Denver’s training camp to start, Davis has returned to Texas to
train. A typical day has him waking up at seven o’clock and looking at the
playbook. 
 
“Around 9 o’clock, I usually run routes with some guys and do that for an hour
or hour and a half,” said Davis. “I come back home, check out my playbook some
more. I hit the gym in the afternoon. Then I’ll go back to the field and work
on footwork and do a walkthrough of the plays.” 
 
Operating mostly with no huddle throughout college, Davis acknowledged it’s a
lot different going into an NFL huddle and hearing the plays. He now rehearses saying the play, lines up and runs through each play. 
 
“The playbook is really big,” said Davis. “You really have to know everything
because in Denver the receivers play all three positions. You have to know
where to line up and what your assignment is every play.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658430094738.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis said the Broncos coaching staff has discussed his role with the team would have an
emphasis as a punt and kick returner and special teams member. 
 
Every NFL team is allowed 90 players on their roster at this point of the offseason. Following the final preseason game in August, rosters will be trimmed
to 53. 
 
“I feel good about my chances to make the final team,” said Davis. “There is a
lot of work left to put in, but I feel good about it right now. I’m ready to
get back there and show them.” 
 
The Broncos training camp begins July 27 in Dove Valley, Colorado
and the team plays their first preseason game Aug. 13 against Dallas. 
 
The Ellsworth native continues to follow what his grandpa told him, “if you’re
good enough, they will find you.” 
 
“I just continue to work and bet on myself,” added Davis.Listen below to the full interview with Davis and Eagle Radio's Cole Reif.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/u4q10xm2/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Local