By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

There are big band sounds and sometimes just big bands. The 19-time world champion Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps made a pit stop in Great Bend for a rehearsal Monday. The Blue Devils departed with their 18-vehicle convoy en route to Broken Arrow, Okla., for another Drum Corps International competition Tuesday night.

"Broken Arrow is our biggest competition of the year thus far," said Kristen Lichtenthal, Blue Devils tour manager. "We are based in California, and there are other groups in our competitive circuit all across the United States. Until now, everyone has been sticking to their region so we've only been seeing the same west-coast corps for about a month. This is the first time everyone is convening.  We're going to see some of the top competitors. It's the real big first show, first big competition these kids are having. It's kind of a big night for us."

The Blue Devils are a group of performers, ranging in age from 8 to 22 years, with various experience in music and dance. And they come from all over the United States and even from overseas.   

"They really come from all over," Lichtenthal said. "We have several from almost every state in the United States, several from Japan, and every now and again we have several come from Canada or Europe. It's an audition-based group, so they really do come from all over."

The Devils do not travel small, packing four sleeper buses for staff, four charter buses for members, a semi-truck and trailer for food, two more semis for equipment and props, a few Penske trucks, and an RV. 

The Blue Devils won the World Class division at the Drums Along the Rockies in Denver competition prior to traveling through the night and arriving in Great Bend just before 3 a.m. Monday morning. Monday night, the band rehearsed into the dark hours before making an overnight trip to Tulsa ahead of Tuesday's show in Broken Arrow.

"We do a lot of overnight drives," said Lichtenthal. "Sometimes they're very short. If we're traveling in state for California you're looking at two or three hours. Tonight we'll have a five or six-hour drive, 400 miles."

Don Regehr, assistant band director at Great Bend High School, said the corps contacted USD 428 in June about needing a place to stay. He took on the duties of accommodating the large group, even in the wee hours of the night.

"I talked to Tim Friess, the principal, and Matt Westerhaus, the new AD," Regehr said. "I had to check and make sure the school was really willing to do this. They've done it before in the past for different kinds of groups and DCI groups. They just assured me it was okay to do it but just to know the administrators weren't here to help, so I had to be the one to take care of it."

Regehr also got help from head custodian Charles Bentley, who had the facilities unlocked shortly after midnight Monday morning, and Linda Loera, who also helped throughout the day. Former GBHS band director Marc Webster and Ellinwood High's band director Mark Newton also assisted.

"I did a lot of checking with Charlie before, and he was the one who made sure we had the rooms available we needed and made sure we had the air conditioning going," said Regehr. "He had everything unlocked by the time I got there at 12:30 in the morning."

After winning 19 world titles in the drum and bugle corps ranks, the Blue Devils are returning after some time off. The group is not only shaking off some rust but also dealing with dangerous heat conditions as highs were expected to reach 107 degrees Tuesday in Oklahoma.

"It's definitely a challenge considering, in addition to the excruciating heat, we've been off for two years from doing the activity," Lichtenthal said. "We work in conjunction with what we call our health and wellness staff, which are medically-trained professionals, either physical therapists, nurses, or a combination of the two. 

"They work with us to give advisories on how to handle our performers safely in the heat. That will cover anything from adding more break time, to making sure they're getting adequate water, to doing certain cool-down breaks in the evening. We're really closely monitoring it, but it is a significantly harder challenge this year."

The Blue Devils left town late Monday evening, but not before giving the district a positive review, especially on sleeping arrangements inside the Panther Activity Center.

"The corps was very complimentary of our facilities and the whole setup of everything being so nice and close together," Regehr said. "The kids came into the PAC and said, 'We get to have all of this space to sleep?' They had been sleeping in gymnasiums that were just the one gym, so that was kind of nice."

Tuesday's event in Broken Arrow will feature 22 corps from 14 states in the World Class division. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658236299230.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThere are big band sounds and sometimes just big bands. The 19-time world champion Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps made a pit stop in Great Bend for a rehearsal Monday. The Blue Devils departed with their 18-vehicle convoy en route to Broken Arrow, Okla., for another Drum Corps International competition Tuesday night."Broken Arrow is our biggest competition of the year thus far," said Kristen Lichtenthal, Blue Devils tour manager. "We are based in California, and there are other groups in our competitive circuit all across the United States. Until now, everyone has been sticking to their region so we've only been seeing the same west-coast corps for about a month. This is the first time everyone is convening. We're going to see some of the top competitors. It's the real big first show, first big competition these kids are having. It's kind of a big night for us."The Blue Devils are a group of performers, ranging in age from 8 to 22 years, with various experience in music and dance. And they come from all over the United States and even from overseas. "They really come from all over," Lichtenthal said. "We have several from almost every state in the United States, several from Japan, and every now and again we have several come from Canada or Europe. It's an audition-based group, so they really do come from all over."The Devils do not travel small, packing four sleeper buses for staff, four charter buses for members, a semi-truck and trailer for food, two more semis for equipment and props, a few Penske trucks, and an RV. The Blue Devils won the World Class division at the Drums Along the Rockies in Denver competition prior to traveling through the night and arriving in Great Bend just before 3 a.m. Monday morning. Monday night, the band rehearsed into the dark hours before making an overnight trip to Tulsa ahead of Tuesday's show in Broken Arrow."We do a lot of overnight drives," said Lichtenthal. "Sometimes they're very short. If we're traveling in state for California you're looking at two or three hours. Tonight we'll have a five or six-hour drive, 400 miles."Don Regehr, assistant band director at Great Bend High School, said the corps contacted USD 428 in June about needing a place to stay. He took on the duties of accommodating the large group, even in the wee hours of the night."I talked to Tim Friess, the principal, and Matt Westerhaus, the new AD," Regehr said. "I had to check and make sure the school was really willing to do this. They've done it before in the past for different kinds of groups and DCI groups. They just assured me it was okay to do it but just to know the administrators weren't here to help, so I had to be the one to take care of it."Regehr also got help from head custodian Charles Bentley, who had the facilities unlocked shortly after midnight Monday morning, and Linda Loera, who also helped throughout the day. Former GBHS band director Marc Webster and Ellinwood High's band director Mark Newton also assisted."I did a lot of checking with Charlie before, and he was the one who made sure we had the rooms available we needed and made sure we had the air conditioning going," said Regehr. "He had everything unlocked by the time I got there at 12:30 in the morning."After winning 19 world titles in the drum and bugle corps ranks, the Blue Devils are returning after some time off. The group is not only shaking off some rust but also dealing with dangerous heat conditions as highs were expected to reach 107 degrees Tuesday in Oklahoma."It's definitely a challenge considering, in addition to the excruciating heat, we've been off for two years from doing the activity," Lichtenthal said. "We work in conjunction with what we call our health and wellness staff, which are medically-trained professionals, either physical therapists, nurses, or a combination of the two. "They work with us to give advisories on how to handle our performers safely in the heat. That will cover anything from adding more break time, to making sure they're getting adequate water, to doing certain cool-down breaks in the evening. We're really closely monitoring it, but it is a significantly harder challenge this year."The Blue Devils left town late Monday evening, but not before giving the district a positive review, especially on sleeping arrangements inside the Panther Activity Center."The corps was very complimentary of our facilities and the whole setup of everything being so nice and close together," Regehr said. "The kids came into the PAC and said, 'We get to have all of this space to sleep?' They had been sleeping in gymnasiums that were just the one gym, so that was kind of nice."Tuesday's event in Broken Arrow will feature 22 corps from 14 states in the World Class division.

World-champion Blue Devil drum corps stops in Great Bend

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

For the first time since 2018, the Great Bend Police Department is at
full strength. 

When taking over as police chief in January 2021, Steve Haulmark
mentioned one of his goals was to have a fully staffed department. A full 33
officers/detectives was met as Haulmark introduced the recent hiring of Officer
Jonathan Parsons to the Great Bend City Council on Monday. 
"Officer Parsons spent the majority of his career as an engineer, but in that role, he was also a dog handler and kennel master," said Haulmark. "So he is going to bring that expertise here and help us with our canine program." 
Haulmark said Parsons retired from the United States Army after 20 years of
service, and Parsons’ wife is originally from Great Bend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658203661812.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Police Department Officer Jonathan Parsons was introduced to the Great Bend City Council Monday, July 18, 2022." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Police Department Officer Jonathan Parsons was introduced to the Great Bend City Council Monday, July 18, 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor the first time since 2018, the Great Bend Police Department is at
full strength. When taking over as police chief in January 2021, Steve Haulmark
mentioned one of his goals was to have a fully staffed department. A full 33
officers/detectives was met as Haulmark introduced the recent hiring of Officer
Jonathan Parsons to the Great Bend City Council on Monday. 
"Officer Parsons spent the majority of his career as an engineer, but in that role, he was also a dog handler and kennel master," said Haulmark. "So he is going to bring that expertise here and help us with our canine program." 
Haulmark said Parsons retired from the United States Army after 20 years of
service, and Parsons’ wife is originally from Great Bend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

First time since 2018, Great Bend Police Dept. at full strength 

The two street sweepers the City of Great Bend operates are often broken
down, and one of them requires CDL certification to drive. The aging equipment
has prevented the city from cleaning the streets as much as they would like to. 
Great Bend has two different street sweepers, regenerative air and mechanical. 
The regenerative air sweeper can only be used in the residential areas because
it does not operate well over sand. The machine has two brooms on the outside
that sweep everything into the middle and vacuums up the debris. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said the mechanical sweeper is not
as effective but road surfaces are not an issue. "The mechanical sweeper typically has three brooms, two outside brooms and one center broom," said Francis. "The two outside brooms sweep everything to the center which sweeps the debris onto a conveyer belt and loads it into the hopper. It can be used in more areas. You don't have to drive too many streets to realize we get a lot of sand in our streets." 
Francis felt the city is behind on a few departments’ equipment replacements,
and is working to remedy the issue. 
"Previous to my time here, we were a pay as you go type of operation," said Francis. "We would save up and save up and then buy the piece of equipment we needed. The problem with that is sometimes by the time you had enough money saved up, the piece of equipment should have been replaced five years prior. We've found ourselves, in some departments, being well behind in quality of equipment." 
Great Bend is considering a lease-purchase option to acquire a new street
sweeper soon. The city would make payments on the equipment while getting use
of the sweeper right away.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633536568828.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe two street sweepers the City of Great Bend operates are often broken
down, and one of them requires CDL certification to drive. The aging equipment
has prevented the city from cleaning the streets as much as they would like to. 
Great Bend has two different street sweepers, regenerative air and mechanical. 
The regenerative air sweeper can only be used in the residential areas because
it does not operate well over sand. The machine has two brooms on the outside
that sweep everything into the middle and vacuums up the debris. 
Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis said the mechanical sweeper is not
as effective but road surfaces are not an issue. "The mechanical sweeper typically has three brooms, two outside brooms and one center broom," said Francis. "The two outside brooms sweep everything to the center which sweeps the debris onto a conveyer belt and loads it into the hopper. It can be used in more areas. You don't have to drive too many streets to realize we get a lot of sand in our streets." 
Francis felt the city is behind on a few departments’ equipment replacements,
and is working to remedy the issue. 
"Previous to my time here, we were a pay as you go type of operation," said Francis. "We would save up and save up and then buy the piece of equipment we needed. The problem with that is sometimes by the time you had enough money saved up, the piece of equipment should have been replaced five years prior. We've found ourselves, in some departments, being well behind in quality of equipment." 
Great Bend is considering a lease-purchase option to acquire a new street
sweeper soon. The city would make payments on the equipment while getting use
of the sweeper right away.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Behind on equipment replacements, Great Bend considers new method

On Monday, July 18, just before 4 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2400 block of 6th Street in the City of Great Bend. 

The vehicle was stopped for a traffic infraction. During the investigation Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was deployed and indicated the presence of controlled substances in or around the vehicle. Methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and brass knuckles were discovered.

The driver, identified as Leona Bahr-Strecker, age 35 of Great Bend, was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. 

Strecker was booked for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal carrying of a weapon. Strecker is being held in the Barton County jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.

A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Justin Herren, age 38 of Great Bend, was found to have outstanding warrants from the City of Great Bend. He was also in possession of methamphetamine. 

Herren was transported the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and two Great Bend municipal warrants. Herren is being held on a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242423885.jpeg" alt="K-9 Maxx with his handler from the Barton County Sheriff's Office." />
 <figcaption>K-9 Maxx with his handler from the Barton County Sheriff's Office.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, July 18, just before 4 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2400 block of 6th Street in the City of Great Bend. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic infraction. During the investigation Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was deployed and indicated the presence of controlled substances in or around the vehicle. Methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and brass knuckles were discovered.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242466147.jpeg" alt="Leona Bahr-Strecker" />
 <figcaption>Leona Bahr-Strecker</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, identified as Leona Bahr-Strecker, age 35 of Great Bend, was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. Strecker was booked for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal carrying of a weapon. Strecker is being held in the Barton County jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242492147.jpeg" alt="Justin Herren" />
 <figcaption>Justin Herren</figcaption>
 </figure>A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Justin Herren, age 38 of Great Bend, was found to have outstanding warrants from the City of Great Bend. He was also in possession of methamphetamine. Herren was transported the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and two Great Bend municipal warrants. Herren is being held on a $10,000 bond.

Barton Co. K9 assists in drug arrest in Great Bend

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/18) 
 
Missing Person / Runaway 
 
At 11:21 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 155 NW 10 Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 1:46 p.m. a fire was reported at 2199 NW 90 Avenue in Russell. 
 
Threats / Criminal Threats 
 
At 1:50 p.m. threats were reported at 152 SW 50 Road. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 1:57 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 487 SE 60 Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 3:55 p.m. the K-9 was called out at 6th &amp; Morphy. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:09 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 20 Road &amp; SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
At 11:13 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 3 NW 90 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (7/18)

At 1:28 a.m. a report of that his father is missing was made at 2611 18th Street.

At 11:49 a.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street.

At 12:10 p.m. theft of a 2018 Kia Optima bearing KS license plate #134FTF was reported at 5210 10th Street.

At 12:41 p.m. a report that his missing father returned home was made at 2611 18th Street.

At 12:46 p.m. a hit and run accident was reported at 1801 Williams.

At 2:03 p.m. report of a vehicle heading westbound unable to maintain lanes was made at 10th &amp; Harrison.

At 2:13 a report of Kyle Stroud driving past her residence was made at 2903 21st Street.

At 3:04 p.m. a vehicle jumping the curb and leaving the area was reported at 1906 Main Street.

At 9:49 p.m. a subject on a scooter on the wrong side of the road was reported at 10th &amp; Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (7/18) 
 
Missing Person / Runaway 
 
At 11:21 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 155 NW 10 Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 1:46 p.m. a fire was reported at 2199 NW 90 Avenue in Russell. 
 
Threats / Criminal Threats 
 
At 1:50 p.m. threats were reported at 152 SW 50 Road. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 1:57 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 487 SE 60 Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 3:55 p.m. the K-9 was called out at 6th &amp; Morphy. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:09 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 20 Road &amp; SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood. 
 
At 11:13 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at 3 NW 90 Road in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (7/18)Missing PersonAt 1:28 a.m. a report of that his father is missing was made at 2611 18th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:49 a.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street.TheftAt 12:10 p.m. theft of a 2018 Kia Optima bearing KS license plate #134FTF was reported at 5210 10th Street.Locate Runaway/MissingAt 12:41 p.m. a report that his missing father returned home was made at 2611 18th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:46 p.m. a hit and run accident was reported at 1801 Williams.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 2:03 p.m. report of a vehicle heading westbound unable to maintain lanes was made at 10th &amp; Harrison.At 2:13 a report of Kyle Stroud driving past her residence was made at 2903 21st Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:04 p.m. a vehicle jumping the curb and leaving the area was reported at 1906 Main Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 9:49 p.m. a subject on a scooter on the wrong side of the road was reported at 10th &amp; Washington.

Cop Shop (7/18)

7/18 BOOKED: Freddy Miller on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Courtney Veitenheimer on Barton County District Court case to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Tammy Fleske on Barton County District Court warrant to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Todd Fisher on a hold for Phillips County.

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for rape, no bond set.

BOOKED: Justin Herren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,068.50 cash only; also on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Meth and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Leona Strecker on Barton County District Court case for Possession with Intent to Distribute Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kiera Shepard on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on an out-of-county warrant for Theft, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Alexandro Serna on Barton County District Court warrant, after posting $300 cash bond.

RELEASED: Clayton Hines on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for rape, to Juvenile Justice Authority.

RELEASED: Eugene Merica on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Tara Bailey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/18 BOOKED: Freddy Miller on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Courtney Veitenheimer on Barton County District Court case to serve sentence.BOOKED: Tammy Fleske on Barton County District Court warrant to serve sentence.BOOKED: Todd Fisher on a hold for Phillips County.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for rape, no bond set.BOOKED: Justin Herren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,068.50 cash only; also on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Meth and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Leona Strecker on Barton County District Court case for Possession with Intent to Distribute Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kiera Shepard on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on an out-of-county warrant for Theft, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Alexandro Serna on Barton County District Court warrant, after posting $300 cash bond.RELEASED: Clayton Hines on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant, by order of the court.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for rape, to Juvenile Justice Authority.RELEASED: Eugene Merica on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Tara Bailey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (7/18)

Laura Klima-Fehr started her dance career in Great Bend, eventually running a dance studio for nine years and coaching the Crimson Girls dance team at Hoisington High School for nearly a decade. Now she's sharing her love of cheer and dance for a good cause as the second-time cheer director at the Kansas Shrine Bowl this weekend in Pittsburg.

"Last year they called and asked at the last minute if I wanted to be the cheer director, and apply and present to the board of directors," said Klima-Fehr, who has volunteered with the Shriners since cheering in the Shrine Bowl in high school. "I did and it was amazing. Literally, it was like the best week of my life just because you're cheering for more than yourself. You're cheering for these kids who literally can't walk, and some of them can't talk. It's really cool to watch them put in for that cause."

Cheerleaders from around the state are invited to attend the Shrine Bowl festivities. As cheer director, it is Klima-Fehr's job to recruit those athletes for a 4-day camp to learn cheers, chants, and two routines, all of which Klima-Fehr choreographs, for the football game. Proceeds from the camp benefit Shriners Hospitals.

This year's Shrine Bowl features no players from Barton County, but the event will feature many area cheerleaders and band members. The Hoisington High cheerleaders are attending as a squad, and Great Bend and Central Plains will also have representation.

Nearly 200 cheerleaders attended last year's Shrine Bowl, and Klima-Fehr expects a similar number this year. Cheerleaders report to camp Wednesday, and all cheerleaders at the camp will perform at halftime of Saturday's game. A select group of 36 cheerleaders is handpicked to perform before Saturday's football game. The top-eight cheerleaders are given many items to reward them as the Elite Eight. 

"It's really wild," Klima-Fehr said. "The first day I walked in last year and was like 'What is this?' Last year we had 198 cheerleaders, and they were all looking at me, waiting to be taught all these things. I was shocked God allowed me to do this, and I was getting to live out a childhood dream. I have a killer staff that volunteers and helps me out."

The Shrine Bowl has helped raise some $3 million for patients at Shriners Hospitals. The cause is not lost on the cheerleaders, who visit patients on day two of the camp.

"That’s the day they realize they’re cheering for something more, beyond themselves," Klima-Fehr said. "It’s for the kids."

Last year, Great Bend's Ashley Reddig and Hoisington's Tricia Schremmer each made the select team. This year, HHS cheer coach Jenna Williams will serve as cheer and stunt coordinator, and Kelsey Brummer will be the athletic trainer, and Sarah Burkhead of Claflin will serve as the youth clinic director. Other assistants include Sarah Staten of Lyons, Jessica Saiz of Sterling, and Stephanie Downie of Concordia. Strong returns alongside Ellinwood's Daphne Doll as assistants this year.

The 49th Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl kicks off at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 23 at Carnie Smith Stadium in Pittsburg. The game will also be broadcast on YouTube and select area cable providers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658165578752.jpeg" alt="Hoisington High cheerleaders at the 2021 Shrine Bowl." />
 <figcaption>Hoisington High cheerleaders at the 2021 Shrine Bowl.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLaura Klima-Fehr started her dance career in Great Bend, eventually running a dance studio for nine years and coaching the Crimson Girls dance team at Hoisington High School for nearly a decade. Now she's sharing her love of cheer and dance for a good cause as the second-time cheer director at the Kansas Shrine Bowl this weekend in Pittsburg."Last year they called and asked at the last minute if I wanted to be the cheer director, and apply and present to the board of directors," said Klima-Fehr, who has volunteered with the Shriners since cheering in the Shrine Bowl in high school. "I did and it was amazing. Literally, it was like the best week of my life just because you're cheering for more than yourself. You're cheering for these kids who literally can't walk, and some of them can't talk. It's really cool to watch them put in for that cause."Cheerleaders from around the state are invited to attend the Shrine Bowl festivities. As cheer director, it is Klima-Fehr's job to recruit those athletes for a 4-day camp to learn cheers, chants, and two routines, all of which Klima-Fehr choreographs, for the football game. Proceeds from the camp benefit Shriners Hospitals.This year's Shrine Bowl features no players from Barton County, but the event will feature many area cheerleaders and band members. The Hoisington High cheerleaders are attending as a squad, and Great Bend and Central Plains will also have representation.Nearly 200 cheerleaders attended last year's Shrine Bowl, and Klima-Fehr expects a similar number this year. Cheerleaders report to camp Wednesday, and all cheerleaders at the camp will perform at halftime of Saturday's game. A select group of 36 cheerleaders is handpicked to perform before Saturday's football game. The top-eight cheerleaders are given many items to reward them as the Elite Eight. "It's really wild," Klima-Fehr said. "The first day I walked in last year and was like 'What is this?' Last year we had 198 cheerleaders, and they were all looking at me, waiting to be taught all these things. I was shocked God allowed me to do this, and I was getting to live out a childhood dream. I have a killer staff that volunteers and helps me out."The Shrine Bowl has helped raise some $3 million for patients at Shriners Hospitals. The cause is not lost on the cheerleaders, who visit patients on day two of the camp."That’s the day they realize they’re cheering for something more, beyond themselves," Klima-Fehr said. "It’s for the kids."Last year, Great Bend's Ashley Reddig and Hoisington's Tricia Schremmer each made the select team. This year, HHS cheer coach Jenna Williams will serve as cheer and stunt coordinator, and Kelsey Brummer will be the athletic trainer, and Sarah Burkhead of Claflin will serve as the youth clinic director. Other assistants include Sarah Staten of Lyons, Jessica Saiz of Sterling, and Stephanie Downie of Concordia. Strong returns alongside Ellinwood's Daphne Doll as assistants this year.The 49th Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl kicks off at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 23 at Carnie Smith Stadium in Pittsburg. The game will also be broadcast on YouTube and select area cable providers.

Former Hoisington dance coach again leading cheerleaders at Shrine Bowl

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 107. South southwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Northeast wind 6 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. North northeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. East northeast wind around 7 mph becoming south southeast after midnight.

Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102. South wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.

Friday Sunny and hot, with a high near 103.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 78.

Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 105. Breezy.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 79.

Sunday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 104.

Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77.

Monday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 101.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 107. South southwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Northeast wind 6 to 9 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. North northeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. East northeast wind around 7 mph becoming south southeast after midnight.Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102. South wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.Friday Sunny and hot, with a high near 103.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 78.Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 105. Breezy.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 79.Sunday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 104.Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77.Monday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 101.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

RICE COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 8:30 p.m. Monday in Rice County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler 200 driven by&nbsp;Meyer, Glenda Jeanne Meyer, 85, Little River was westbound on U.S. 56. just west of 18th Road.

The car entered the eastbound lanes, traveled into the south ditch, vaulted off of the culvert and rolled one time.

EMS transported Meyer to the Rice County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RICE COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 8:30 p.m. Monday in Rice County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler 200 driven by&nbsp;Meyer, Glenda Jeanne Meyer, 85, Little River was westbound on U.S. 56. just west of 18th Road.The car entered the eastbound lanes, traveled into the south ditch, vaulted off of the culvert and rolled one time.EMS transported Meyer to the Rice County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

85-year-old Rice Co. woman hospitalized after rollover crash

With a 7-1 vote, the Great Bend City Council voted Monday to issue a
conditional use permit to Jessica Roan to operate a group home daycare at 2206
McKinley Street. 
As the property is owned by Hammond Investments, and Roan will not be living in the
house, the permit was needed. Tammy Hammond signed the application authorizing the applicant to use the property as a daycare. 
At the Great Bend Planning Commission public hearing June 27, two
nearby neighbors expressed concerns on dropping off and picking up children on
McKinley. The home daycare will operate from 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through
Friday, and Roan said she will do her best to make sure everyone stays safe
during drop-offs and pick-ups. "I want everyone to follow basic traffic laws," said Roan. "My employee and I have decided we will park on the road so parents can access the driveway. I do have it written down on how we're going to have parents drop off and pick up. Obviously, this is going to be a recommended guideline. I can't tell people how to enter and exit a vehicle, or how to take their children out of it." 
Of the 12 children Roan can accept, she plans on caring for two infants. 
Recently moving back to the Great Bend area, Roan wrote she struggled to find
adequate childcare for her own children and was inspired to open the daycare, which will be called The Learning Ladder. Roan has worked at multiple childcare facilities
in the past, including Children’s Learning Center in Great Bend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657828675859.jpeg" alt="A conditional use permit was approved by the Great Bend City Council on Monday, July 18, 2022 for Jessica Roan to operate a home daycare at 2206 McKinley Street." />
 <figcaption>A conditional use permit was approved by the Great Bend City Council on Monday, July 18, 2022 for Jessica Roan to operate a home daycare at 2206 McKinley Street.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWith a 7-1 vote, the Great Bend City Council voted Monday to issue a
conditional use permit to Jessica Roan to operate a group home daycare at 2206
McKinley Street. 
As the property is owned by Hammond Investments, and Roan will not be living in the
house, the permit was needed. Tammy Hammond signed the application authorizing the applicant to use the property as a daycare. 
At the Great Bend Planning Commission public hearing June 27, two
nearby neighbors expressed concerns on dropping off and picking up children on
McKinley. The home daycare will operate from 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through
Friday, and Roan said she will do her best to make sure everyone stays safe
during drop-offs and pick-ups. "I want everyone to follow basic traffic laws," said Roan. "My employee and I have decided we will park on the road so parents can access the driveway. I do have it written down on how we're going to have parents drop off and pick up. Obviously, this is going to be a recommended guideline. I can't tell people how to enter and exit a vehicle, or how to take their children out of it." 
Of the 12 children Roan can accept, she plans on caring for two infants. 
Recently moving back to the Great Bend area, Roan wrote she struggled to find
adequate childcare for her own children and was inspired to open the daycare, which will be called The Learning Ladder. Roan has worked at multiple childcare facilities
in the past, including Children’s Learning Center in Great Bend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Permit for new home daycare in Great Bend approved by council

News from the Oil Patch, July 18 John P. Tretbar

Budget wonks in Topeka as well as your county courthouse are wrestling with a big drop in oil and gas tax revenues. Kansas oil producers generated $21.1 million dollars in Severance Tax revenue during the fiscal year that ended June 30th. The total for fiscal 2022 was less than half the $42.3 million in gross collections reported in fiscal 2021. In an email, The Kansas Department of Revenue says natural gas collections were down from $23 million to $6.2 million. Combined oil-and-gas property tax collections for calendar-year 2021 dropped more than 12 million dollars from the year before, to $47.5 million. Kansas crude prices are down more than six dollars from a week ago. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $87.75 per barrel. The benchmark Nymex contract settled Friday at $97.59 per barrel, for a fourth consecutive trading session below $100. But a four-percent spike on Monday sent lunchtime prices over $101 a barrel in New York and over $105 in London. The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline fell 15 cents since last week to $4.52. The auto club AAA says the steady drop in pump prices is due to lower gasoline demand and lower oil prices. The government says gasoline demand dropped more than 14% last week to the lowest July tally in more than twenty years. Kansas prices are down more than a dime a gallon from last week. We spotted $4.49 a gallon at stations in Hays and Great Bend. Your 15-gallon fill-up will cost you half a dollar less than last week, and about four dollars less than a month ago. Kansas operators spudded 742 wells across the state so far this year, up 66% from the tally at this time last year. Independent Oil and Gas Service is scouting current oilfield activity at 407 well sites, up nearly 80% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas is up one rig in eastern Kansas and unchanged at 30 active rigs west of Wichita. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis, &nbsp;Russell and Stafford counties. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 756 active drilling rigs, up two oil rigs from last week. The count in Texas is up four. Oklahoma is up three. New Mexico is down two and Louisiana is down three rigs. There's one new drilling permit in Ellis County among 19 filed in Western Kansas over the last week. Kansas regulators okayed 28 new drilling locations across the state. That's 875 new permits so far this year, compared to 535 a year ago at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 39 newly-completed wells for the week. Twenty-one of those are west of Wichita including two wells in Barton County, one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The year-to-date tally is 848 completed wells, more than double the 415 completions reported last year at this time. Oklahoma joins Texas reporting record-breaking oil-and-gas tax collections. The state treasurer reported total tax receipts for the fiscal year that ended June 30th were up 15% at $16.46 BILLION. For the first time in state history, collections from oil and gas production taxes topped $1.5 billion during fiscal year 2022. The tally for last month was $171 million, the highest of any single month. US crude oil inventories increased last week by 3.3 million barrels. The government reports stockpiles of 427.1 million barrels as of July 8th, which is about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline inventories rose 5.8 million barrels, and are five percent below the five-year average. US operators pumped 74-thousand barrels per day less crude last week than the week before. The Energy Information Administration says US output remains slightly over 12 million barrels per day for the fifth week in a row. EIA said crude imports averaged 6.7 million barrels per day last week, down 200-thousand barrels per day from the week before. The four-week rolling average is 1.2 percent higher than the same four-week period last year Oil-by-rail in the United States last week was down from the week before and down from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,395 tanker carloads in the week through July 9th, down 711 carloads from the week before and a 3.9% drop from a year ago. Canadian traffic is up more than 22 percent year over year, but dropped last week by more than a thousand carloads. One of the super-majors earned some super profits from its refining business. Bloomberg reports Shell's refining sector may have added more than a billion dollars to it's bottom line in the second quarter. The trading update is the first indicator of just how much cash was flowing into the coffers of major oil companies due to surging pump prices. Refining margins at Shell nearly tripled from the first to the second quarter. A monthly report from OPEC notes that refinery margins at all of the main trading hubs increased in June. The cartel notes that refiners are now increasing their processing rates following peak maintenance season. There are tentative signs that Russia's diversion of crude oil to Asia from long-time European customers is faltering. Shipments to China and India are down by almost 30% from their post-invasion peak. While it’s too early to say with confidence that self-sanctioning and pressure from the US on India, China and other buyers will have a sustained impact, Bloomberg reports there are early signs that Asian nations may not be able to fully replace Russia’s European buyers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789001883.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, July 18 John P. TretbarBudget wonks in Topeka as well as your county courthouse are wrestling with a big drop in oil and gas tax revenues. Kansas oil producers generated $21.1 million dollars in Severance Tax revenue during the fiscal year that ended June 30th. The total for fiscal 2022 was less than half the $42.3 million in gross collections reported in fiscal 2021. In an email, The Kansas Department of Revenue says natural gas collections were down from $23 million to $6.2 million. Combined oil-and-gas property tax collections for calendar-year 2021 dropped more than 12 million dollars from the year before, to $47.5 million. Kansas crude prices are down more than six dollars from a week ago. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $87.75 per barrel. The benchmark Nymex contract settled Friday at $97.59 per barrel, for a fourth consecutive trading session below $100. But a four-percent spike on Monday sent lunchtime prices over $101 a barrel in New York and over $105 in London. The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline fell 15 cents since last week to $4.52. The auto club AAA says the steady drop in pump prices is due to lower gasoline demand and lower oil prices. The government says gasoline demand dropped more than 14% last week to the lowest July tally in more than twenty years. Kansas prices are down more than a dime a gallon from last week. We spotted $4.49 a gallon at stations in Hays and Great Bend. Your 15-gallon fill-up will cost you half a dollar less than last week, and about four dollars less than a month ago. Kansas operators spudded 742 wells across the state so far this year, up 66% from the tally at this time last year. Independent Oil and Gas Service is scouting current oilfield activity at 407 well sites, up nearly 80% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas is up one rig in eastern Kansas and unchanged at 30 active rigs west of Wichita. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis, &nbsp;Russell and Stafford counties. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 756 active drilling rigs, up two oil rigs from last week. The count in Texas is up four. Oklahoma is up three. New Mexico is down two and Louisiana is down three rigs. There's one new drilling permit in Ellis County among 19 filed in Western Kansas over the last week. Kansas regulators okayed 28 new drilling locations across the state. That's 875 new permits so far this year, compared to 535 a year ago at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 39 newly-completed wells for the week. Twenty-one of those are west of Wichita including two wells in Barton County, one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The year-to-date tally is 848 completed wells, more than double the 415 completions reported last year at this time. Oklahoma joins Texas reporting record-breaking oil-and-gas tax collections. The state treasurer reported total tax receipts for the fiscal year that ended June 30th were up 15% at $16.46 BILLION. For the first time in state history, collections from oil and gas production taxes topped $1.5 billion during fiscal year 2022. The tally for last month was $171 million, the highest of any single month. US crude oil inventories increased last week by 3.3 million barrels. The government reports stockpiles of 427.1 million barrels as of July 8th, which is about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline inventories rose 5.8 million barrels, and are five percent below the five-year average. US operators pumped 74-thousand barrels per day less crude last week than the week before. The Energy Information Administration says US output remains slightly over 12 million barrels per day for the fifth week in a row. EIA said crude imports averaged 6.7 million barrels per day last week, down 200-thousand barrels per day from the week before. The four-week rolling average is 1.2 percent higher than the same four-week period last year Oil-by-rail in the United States last week was down from the week before and down from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,395 tanker carloads in the week through July 9th, down 711 carloads from the week before and a 3.9% drop from a year ago. Canadian traffic is up more than 22 percent year over year, but dropped last week by more than a thousand carloads. One of the super-majors earned some super profits from its refining business. Bloomberg reports Shell's refining sector may have added more than a billion dollars to it's bottom line in the second quarter. The trading update is the first indicator of just how much cash was flowing into the coffers of major oil companies due to surging pump prices. Refining margins at Shell nearly tripled from the first to the second quarter. A monthly report from OPEC notes that refinery margins at all of the main trading hubs increased in June. The cartel notes that refiners are now increasing their processing rates following peak maintenance season. There are tentative signs that Russia's diversion of crude oil to Asia from long-time European customers is faltering. Shipments to China and India are down by almost 30% from their post-invasion peak. While it’s too early to say with confidence that self-sanctioning and pressure from the US on India, China and other buyers will have a sustained impact, Bloomberg reports there are early signs that Asian nations may not be able to fully replace Russia’s European buyers.

News from the Oil Patch: Severance tax collections down by half

ELLSWORTH — A Wilson, Kansas man has been convicted of child sex crimes under the Kansas version of Jessica’s Law, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt

Jason Cunningham, 36, was found guilty late Friday by an Ellsworth County jury of two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy, one count of attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, one count of attempted aggravated indecent liberties with a child, one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, one count of indecent liberties with a child, one count of aggravated intimidation of a victim, and two counts of promoting obscenity to a minor. 

The jury acquitted the defendant on other counts.&nbsp;The verdict was accepted by Ellsworth County District Judge Carey Hipp. The sentencing date for Cunningham has not yet been set.

The case was investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Northeast Child Victim Task force with the assistance from additional KBI agents, the Wilson Police Department and the Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators said the crimes occurred between 2014 and 2020 and involved two minor children at the time the crimes were committed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658180745683.png" alt="Cunningham-photo Ellsworth County" />
 <figcaption>Cunningham-photo Ellsworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH — A Wilson, Kansas man has been convicted of child sex crimes under the Kansas version of Jessica’s Law, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek SchmidtJason Cunningham, 36, was found guilty late Friday by an Ellsworth County jury of two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy, one count of attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, one count of attempted aggravated indecent liberties with a child, one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, one count of indecent liberties with a child, one count of aggravated intimidation of a victim, and two counts of promoting obscenity to a minor. The jury acquitted the defendant on other counts.&nbsp;The verdict was accepted by Ellsworth County District Judge Carey Hipp. The sentencing date for Cunningham has not yet been set.The case was investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Northeast Child Victim Task force with the assistance from additional KBI agents, the Wilson Police Department and the Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators said the crimes occurred between 2014 and 2020 and involved two minor children at the time the crimes were committed.

Wilson man convicted on child sex charges

Xpress Wellness hosting a contest for the Great Bend community youth and the surrounding areas.&nbsp;

The contest will run from July 15 - 25. The winner will be announced on July 27.&nbsp;

Each age group will win a punch &amp; play card to the Wetlands Waterpark, along with Xpress Wellness Urgent Care reusable water bottle, mini beach ball and drawstring swim bag.&nbsp;

The age groups are: five years &amp; under, 6-9 years old, 10-12 years old.

The color page pickup local area businesses are:

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779376&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1813784&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticapp.icpsc.com%2Ficp%2Fresources%2Fmogile%2F116427%2F160cc206448f3919922dbb7d879261dd.pdf%3Ff_type%3Dfile%26f_name%3DXpress_Summer%2520Coloring%2520Contest%2520-%25202022_PRESS%2520%281%29.pdf&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b563edd09d2d4bd423c72f3d8f17cc97ea7659aeb9dd05334b80876d6553dd40" target="_blank">Download Coloring Sheet</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658154036113.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Xpress Wellness hosting a contest for the Great Bend community youth and the surrounding areas.&nbsp;The contest will run from July 15 - 25. The winner will be announced on July 27.&nbsp;Each age group will win a punch &amp; play card to the Wetlands Waterpark, along with Xpress Wellness Urgent Care reusable water bottle, mini beach ball and drawstring swim bag.&nbsp;The age groups are: five years &amp; under, 6-9 years old, 10-12 years old.The color page pickup local area businesses are:<ul>
 <li>Perkins Restaurant &amp; Bakery:&nbsp;2920 10th Street | Great Bend, KS</li><li>Waters Hardware:&nbsp;1649 KS-96 | Great Bend, KS</li><li>Great Bend Public Library:&nbsp;1409 Williams Street | Great Bend, KS&nbsp;</li><li>Ida Long Goodman Memorial Library (They will have a color station setup for the youth):&nbsp;406 N. Monroe Street | Saint John, KS</li>
 </ul>There are a few guidelines/rules:<ol>
 <li>The color page must be dropped off at the Great Bend clinic location by the end of business day on Monday, July 25. (3800 10th Street)</li><li>They need to have the bottom portion of the color page filled out. (Name, School, Grade/Age)</li><li>They need to leave a contact number with the receptionist when they drop off the color page so we can contact them if they are selected for their age group.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=779376&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1813784&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticapp.icpsc.com%2Ficp%2Fresources%2Fmogile%2F116427%2F160cc206448f3919922dbb7d879261dd.pdf%3Ff_type%3Dfile%26f_name%3DXpress_Summer%2520Coloring%2520Contest%2520-%25202022_PRESS%2520%281%29.pdf&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b563edd09d2d4bd423c72f3d8f17cc97ea7659aeb9dd05334b80876d6553dd40" target="_blank">Download Coloring Sheet</a>

Xpress Wellness color contest in Great Bend

NSP Seeks to Protect Grower Access to Atrazine, Asks Members to Comment The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reopened the finalized re-registration of atrazine, a widely utilized herbicide in sorghum production, and is proposing to replace the approved 15 parts per billion (ppb) concentration equivalent level of concern (CE-LOC) in the aquatic assessment with the ultra-low 3.4 ppb CE-LOC proposed in 2016—a severely restricted level not supported by credible scientific evidence that would have a devastating impact on farmers. National Sorghum Producers strongly disagrees with the EPA’s proposed level of concern for atrazine and&nbsp;is actively seeking&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=3df771c220&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">input</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9e0a8a6e40&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>from its grower community.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c691870c47&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">proposal</a>&nbsp;(EPA-HQ-OPP-2013-0266) is published in the Federal Register, and EPA will accept public comments for 60 days.&nbsp;NSP will continue to work with the EPA, Congress and the White House to help bring logic and science to the assessment process. Meanwhile,&nbsp;NSP is encouraging its members to comment on the issue by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6a07d8e211&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Read NSP's full statement on the proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=328c62d000&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Additional information on the benefits of atrazine from the Triazine Network is available&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ada894aa32&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE&nbsp;UPDATES

USDA Expands Insurance Coverage for Double Cropping for 2023&nbsp; USDA provided more detail in its broadening of the double-cropping or Following Another Crop (FAC) rules for insurance for 2023. The intent of the rule is to prevent lack of crop insurance availability from being justification for farmers not taking the additional risk to plant when the market is demanding it. This will make crop insurance more readily available for double-cropping where appropriate. The&nbsp;maps&nbsp;and policies are not final and RMA is still taking input through the contract change date in November. Read the USDA press release&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d49b804cfe&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and access the FAQs&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=164590f49b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House to Take Up Agriculture Appropriations Bill Next Week as Part of Minibus Appropriations Package, Senate Appropriations Subcommittees to Release Bills by End of July&nbsp; The full House of Representatives is expected to take up a minibus appropriations bill next week that includes, amongst other appropriations bills, the Agriculture Appropriations Bill. The House Rules Committee meets on Monday to determine the contours of the debate, including which amendments shall be made in order. Historically, floor consideration is an opportunity for opponents of U.S. farm policy to offer hostile amendments, but House leadership is likely to look askance at such amendments because they would complicate passage of the overall legislation. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Senate Appropriations Subcommittee chairmen plan to release fiscal year 2023 bills by the end of July, a spokesman for Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) said in a news release. While the House plans to clear as many of the 12 annual appropriations bills as possible before the August recess, the Senate is not expected to move any of the bills through subcommittee, full committee or the full chamber. This will undoubtedly result in the need for at least one Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government running after September 30 and ultimately in an omnibus bill in the lame duck session or early next year. Failure to pass an omnibus would result in Congress passing a year-long CR. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b66d88efd9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Senators Thune and Klobuchar Lead Senators in Letter Calling on USDA to Fix Emergency Relief Program Implementation Problems&nbsp; Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led Senate colleagues in requesting that Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack address implementation issues with the Emergency Relief Program (ERP), including ensuring that all 2020 causes of loss are covered under ERP’s prevent plant, that the 75 percent rule not be implemented in a manner that harms producers with a negative AGI or excludes equipment sales from farm income, and ensuring that farmers who purchased supplemental crop insurance coverage (e.g., SCO, ECO, STAX) receive timely assistance. Senators John Hoeven (R-ND), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Steve Daines (R-MT) also signed the letter. Read the letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=abf13ee203&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Senator Boozman Leads GOP Senators in Pressing USTR To Step It Up On Advancing Trade, Market Access for U.S. Agriculture&nbsp; In a letter to Doug McKalip, President Biden’s nominee for Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Senator John Boozman (R-AR), the Ranking Republican Member on the Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, led a group of Republican Senators in urging McKalip to “become an advocate within the Office of the United States Trade Representative for the prioritization and inclusion of market access commitments as part of U.S. trade discussions. Our farmers and ranchers are facing uncertain times due to the immense pressure of an exponential increase in input costs. Greater access to international markets for products we export would help alleviate some of that pressure. The Biden Administration has been criticized for allowing Trade Promotion Authority to lapse last summer, for not pursuing new trade agreements or completing ongoing negotiations, and for pursuing deals that do not translate into new market access for U.S. agriculture, such as the new Indo Pacific Economic Framework.” Read the letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=51886a4adf&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Ranking Republican Members Thompson, Boozman Urge EPA Not To ‘Politicize’ Pesticides House Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Member, Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), and Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Member, Senator John Boozman (R-AR), urged Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to “cease politicization of crop protection tools” and defend federal preemption under FIFRA and sound science in evaluating crop protection products. "We once again seek your assurances and commitment to ensure this Administration and EPA cease the politicization of critical crop protection tools, adhere to a science-based and transparent regulatory process required under FIFRA, and defend the work of its career scientists to overcome these misguided decisions from the Ninth Circuit. Such actions would provide farmers and ranchers a consistent and predictable regulatory process necessary for U.S. producers to continue to feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” You may read&nbsp;the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=61751c4922&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

USDA Accepts More than 3.1 Million Acres in Grassland CRP Signup&nbsp; USDA is accepting offers for more than 3.1 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grassland Signup, the highest in history. This year, producers have enrolled 2 million acres through the General Signup and more than 464,000 acres have been submitted through the Continuous CRP Signup. About 5.6 million acres are entering CRP in 2023, surpassing the 3.9 million acres expiring this year. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4270a91208&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Endangered Species Act Vacated by Federal Judge&nbsp; Endangered Species Act regulations adopted during the Trump Administration have been vacated by a federal judge. The judge ruled as such despite the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service having requested to keep the rules in place at least temporarily. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e008eaa5b9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. EPA Could Soon Allow Electric Vehicles to Qualify for RFS Credits&nbsp; The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to act on Renewable Fuel Standard language that would allow power derived from renewable biomass for electric vehicle charging to qualify for credits through the program. The Energy Independence Act of 2007 made electricity from renewable biomass eligible under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The EPA has said it will need to “iron out&nbsp;how it would track whether renewable electricity was being generated from approved biomass and whether it was being used as transportation fuel.” It is unclear what a rule from the EPA would look like. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9276dc0faa&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Growth Energy Files Suit Over EPA’s ‘Alternative’ Approach to Small Refinery RFS Compliance&nbsp; Growth Energy is challenging an “alternative" compliance approach for refineries to meet their obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). According to Growth Energy, "In a decision announced this April, EPA reversed 31 small refinery exemptions (SREs) it had previously granted for the 2018 compliance year but declined to hold affected refiners accountable for meeting any blending obligations for that year. Instead, EPA crafted a novel ‘alternative compliance’ approach that excused these refiners from ever having to comply with their 2018 blending obligations. In June, EPA reaffirmed this approach when it excused additional refiners whose petitions for 2016 and 2017 SREs it denied for the first time.” Growth filed its petition concerning the 2016-2018 compliance years in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5775b8c195&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.

Summer 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=f333216f0d&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 summer edition of the sorghum grower magazine! ICYMI:&nbsp;RIPE with Martin Barbre on&nbsp;Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition Check out&nbsp;the newest episode of Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition!&nbsp;Tune in for a special episode of Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition about the Rural Investment to Protect Our Environment (RIPE). NSP's John Duff is joined by Martin Barbre, vice president of engagement and government affairs for RIPE, to discuss their work with farmers and on Capitol Hill. It's available at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=672af0de0b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">https://sorghumgrowers.com/podcast/</a>&nbsp;or on your favorite podcast platform! 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=b29ea62283&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=ac0c36e006&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=f0ccf064ff&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. 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=99d0375ca9&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=cabaa36303&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Corn, sorghum growers say atrazine restrictions would curb conservation</a>&nbsp;- AgriPulse <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e709905885&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum Silage Could Fill Feed Gaps</a>&nbsp;- Hay &amp; Forage Grower <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7b01c37ab8&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum growers unhappy with EPA proposal</a>&nbsp;- World Grain <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5ca5921a21&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Husker Team Leads Effort to Help Sorghum Defend Itself from Aphid Attacks</a>&nbsp;- AgriNews

Upcoming Events July 18-21&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Leadership Sorghum Session - Washington, DC 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=c29479ef2e&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=47d6c16e93&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1e5fdbff95&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;U</a>&nbsp;- Wichita, KS 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 October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7c40f983c3&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Food &amp; Nutrition Conference &amp; Expo (FNCE)</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=922a8388c3&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.

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 </figure>NSP Seeks to Protect Grower Access to Atrazine, Asks Members to Comment The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reopened the finalized re-registration of atrazine, a widely utilized herbicide in sorghum production, and is proposing to replace the approved 15 parts per billion (ppb) concentration equivalent level of concern (CE-LOC) in the aquatic assessment with the ultra-low 3.4 ppb CE-LOC proposed in 2016—a severely restricted level not supported by credible scientific evidence that would have a devastating impact on farmers. National Sorghum Producers strongly disagrees with the EPA’s proposed level of concern for atrazine and&nbsp;is actively seeking&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=3df771c220&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">input</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9e0a8a6e40&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>from its grower community.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=c691870c47&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">proposal</a>&nbsp;(EPA-HQ-OPP-2013-0266) is published in the Federal Register, and EPA will accept public comments for 60 days.&nbsp;NSP will continue to work with the EPA, Congress and the White House to help bring logic and science to the assessment process. Meanwhile,&nbsp;NSP is encouraging its members to comment on the issue by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=6a07d8e211&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. Read NSP's full statement on the proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=328c62d000&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Additional information on the benefits of atrazine from the Triazine Network is available&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=ada894aa32&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.POLICY, REGULATORY AND ISSUE&nbsp;UPDATESUSDA Expands Insurance Coverage for Double Cropping for 2023&nbsp; USDA provided more detail in its broadening of the double-cropping or Following Another Crop (FAC) rules for insurance for 2023. The intent of the rule is to prevent lack of crop insurance availability from being justification for farmers not taking the additional risk to plant when the market is demanding it. This will make crop insurance more readily available for double-cropping where appropriate. The&nbsp;maps&nbsp;and policies are not final and RMA is still taking input through the contract change date in November. Read the USDA press release&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=d49b804cfe&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and access the FAQs&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=164590f49b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. House to Take Up Agriculture Appropriations Bill Next Week as Part of Minibus Appropriations Package, Senate Appropriations Subcommittees to Release Bills by End of July&nbsp; The full House of Representatives is expected to take up a minibus appropriations bill next week that includes, amongst other appropriations bills, the Agriculture Appropriations Bill. The House Rules Committee meets on Monday to determine the contours of the debate, including which amendments shall be made in order. Historically, floor consideration is an opportunity for opponents of U.S. farm policy to offer hostile amendments, but House leadership is likely to look askance at such amendments because they would complicate passage of the overall legislation. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Senate Appropriations Subcommittee chairmen plan to release fiscal year 2023 bills by the end of July, a spokesman for Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) said in a news release. While the House plans to clear as many of the 12 annual appropriations bills as possible before the August recess, the Senate is not expected to move any of the bills through subcommittee, full committee or the full chamber. This will undoubtedly result in the need for at least one Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government running after September 30 and ultimately in an omnibus bill in the lame duck session or early next year. Failure to pass an omnibus would result in Congress passing a year-long CR. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=b66d88efd9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.Senators Thune and Klobuchar Lead Senators in Letter Calling on USDA to Fix Emergency Relief Program Implementation Problems&nbsp; Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led Senate colleagues in requesting that Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack address implementation issues with the Emergency Relief Program (ERP), including ensuring that all 2020 causes of loss are covered under ERP’s prevent plant, that the 75 percent rule not be implemented in a manner that harms producers with a negative AGI or excludes equipment sales from farm income, and ensuring that farmers who purchased supplemental crop insurance coverage (e.g., SCO, ECO, STAX) receive timely assistance. Senators John Hoeven (R-ND), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Steve Daines (R-MT) also signed the letter. Read the letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=abf13ee203&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Senator Boozman Leads GOP Senators in Pressing USTR To Step It Up On Advancing Trade, Market Access for U.S. Agriculture&nbsp; In a letter to Doug McKalip, President Biden’s nominee for Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Senator John Boozman (R-AR), the Ranking Republican Member on the Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, led a group of Republican Senators in urging McKalip to “become an advocate within the Office of the United States Trade Representative for the prioritization and inclusion of market access commitments as part of U.S. trade discussions. Our farmers and ranchers are facing uncertain times due to the immense pressure of an exponential increase in input costs. Greater access to international markets for products we export would help alleviate some of that pressure. The Biden Administration has been criticized for allowing Trade Promotion Authority to lapse last summer, for not pursuing new trade agreements or completing ongoing negotiations, and for pursuing deals that do not translate into new market access for U.S. agriculture, such as the new Indo Pacific Economic Framework.” Read the letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=51886a4adf&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Ranking Republican Members Thompson, Boozman Urge EPA Not To ‘Politicize’ Pesticides House Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Member, Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), and Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Member, Senator John Boozman (R-AR), urged Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to “cease politicization of crop protection tools” and defend federal preemption under FIFRA and sound science in evaluating crop protection products. "We once again seek your assurances and commitment to ensure this Administration and EPA cease the politicization of critical crop protection tools, adhere to a science-based and transparent regulatory process required under FIFRA, and defend the work of its career scientists to overcome these misguided decisions from the Ninth Circuit. Such actions would provide farmers and ranchers a consistent and predictable regulatory process necessary for U.S. producers to continue to feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” You may read&nbsp;the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=61751c4922&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.USDA Accepts More than 3.1 Million Acres in Grassland CRP Signup&nbsp; USDA is accepting offers for more than 3.1 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grassland Signup, the highest in history. This year, producers have enrolled 2 million acres through the General Signup and more than 464,000 acres have been submitted through the Continuous CRP Signup. About 5.6 million acres are entering CRP in 2023, surpassing the 3.9 million acres expiring this year. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=4270a91208&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Endangered Species Act Vacated by Federal Judge&nbsp; Endangered Species Act regulations adopted during the Trump Administration have been vacated by a federal judge. The judge ruled as such despite the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service having requested to keep the rules in place at least temporarily. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e008eaa5b9&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. EPA Could Soon Allow Electric Vehicles to Qualify for RFS Credits&nbsp; The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to act on Renewable Fuel Standard language that would allow power derived from renewable biomass for electric vehicle charging to qualify for credits through the program. The Energy Independence Act of 2007 made electricity from renewable biomass eligible under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The EPA has said it will need to “iron out&nbsp;how it would track whether renewable electricity was being generated from approved biomass and whether it was being used as transportation fuel.” It is unclear what a rule from the EPA would look like. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=9276dc0faa&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>. Growth Energy Files Suit Over EPA’s ‘Alternative’ Approach to Small Refinery RFS Compliance&nbsp; Growth Energy is challenging an “alternative" compliance approach for refineries to meet their obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). According to Growth Energy, "In a decision announced this April, EPA reversed 31 small refinery exemptions (SREs) it had previously granted for the 2018 compliance year but declined to hold affected refiners accountable for meeting any blending obligations for that year. Instead, EPA crafted a novel ‘alternative compliance’ approach that excused these refiners from ever having to comply with their 2018 blending obligations. In June, EPA reaffirmed this approach when it excused additional refiners whose petitions for 2016 and 2017 SREs it denied for the first time.” Growth filed its petition concerning the 2016-2018 compliance years in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Read more&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5775b8c195&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">here</a>.ORGANIZATION UPDATESSummer 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=f333216f0d&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 summer edition of the sorghum grower magazine! ICYMI:&nbsp;RIPE with Martin Barbre on&nbsp;Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition Check out&nbsp;the newest episode of Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition!&nbsp;Tune in for a special episode of Sorghum Smart Talk: Policy Edition about the Rural Investment to Protect Our Environment (RIPE). NSP's John Duff is joined by Martin Barbre, vice president of engagement and government affairs for RIPE, to discuss their work with farmers and on Capitol Hill. It's available at&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=672af0de0b&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">https://sorghumgrowers.com/podcast/</a>&nbsp;or on your favorite podcast platform! 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=b29ea62283&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=ac0c36e006&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=f0ccf064ff&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">SorghumGrowers.com</a>. 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=99d0375ca9&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=cabaa36303&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Corn, sorghum growers say atrazine restrictions would curb conservation</a>&nbsp;- AgriPulse <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=e709905885&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum Silage Could Fill Feed Gaps</a>&nbsp;- Hay &amp; Forage Grower <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7b01c37ab8&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum growers unhappy with EPA proposal</a>&nbsp;- World Grain <a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=5ca5921a21&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Husker Team Leads Effort to Help Sorghum Defend Itself from Aphid Attacks</a>&nbsp;- AgriNewsUpcoming Events July 18-21&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Leadership Sorghum Session - Washington, DC 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=c29479ef2e&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=47d6c16e93&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Sorghum</a><a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=1e5fdbff95&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">&nbsp;U</a>&nbsp;- Wichita, KS 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 October 8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://sorghumgrowers.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c7d6bd689602a83f8b92ea37d&amp;id=7c40f983c3&amp;e=d30ea29a91" target="_blank">Food &amp; Nutrition Conference &amp; Expo (FNCE)</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=922a8388c3&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

Barton Community College has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the spring semester of 2022.

Abilene Bailey Copple, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Scout Tokoi, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Albert Breanna Coston, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Andover Connor Allen, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ashland Cindi Haas, Dietary Manager Certificate

Bazine Lucas Hertel, A.A.S. and OSHA Safety and Health Certificate

Bel Aire Dayjsha Fanning, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Beloit Shelby Sibley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Berryton Ethan Haufler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Buhler Samantha Baldwin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chase&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Joseph Kern, Carpentry Certificate

Claflin Connor&nbsp;Creech, Welding Technology Certificate

Clay Center Courtney Siemers, A.A.S.

Dodge City James Eaton, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jaime Garcia, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Maria Ramirez Gutierrez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Effingham Jeannie Hedrick, A.A.S.

Ellinwood John Billinger, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michael Bitter, Welding Technology Certificate Courtney Cook, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Cotterill, Practical Nursing Certificate Erica Gross, Practical Nursing Certificate Cameron Stevenson, Natural Gas Technician Certificate

Ellsworth Tyler Armstrong, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brandon Bourne, Welding Technology Certificate Dustin Brown, Welding Technology Certificate Kenneth Cox, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Alex Cullumber, Welding Technology Certificate Hellen Culpepper, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keenan Davenport, Welding Technology Certificate Charles Deffebaugh, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Edminster, Welding Technology Certificate Larry Ellis, Welding Technology Certificate Ian Evans, Welding Technology Certificate Dale Flaxbeard, Welding Technology Certificate Zachary Garrett, Welding Technology Certificate Bryan Harbert, Welding Technology Certificate Maliek Hodges, Welding Technology Certificate Shon Jackson, Welding Technology Certificate Michael Jaimez, Welding Technology Certificate Andre Johnson, Welding Technology Certificate Jantz Johnson-Viera, Welding Technology Certificate Roger Kelly, Welding Technology Certificate Mikhail Lahey, Welding Technology Certificate Timothy Leger, Welding Technology Certificate Kyler Milbrandt, Welding Technology Certificate Antonio Ponce, Welding Technology Certificate Jenna Sinnott, Practical Nursing Certificate Joseph Sponaugle, Welding Technology Certificate Emmerae Svaty, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Emporia&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Beau Baumgardner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cade Kohlmeier, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Enterprise Sonia Buus, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Eudora Tiffani Pontious, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Eureka Hillary Shorter, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ft. Leavenworth Kendria Dorsey, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Marc Jones, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; NaMari Moss, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sterling Rasmussen, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brandi Stills, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ft. Riley Deborah Allison, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Allen Brozonis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Amber Carr, Pharmacy Technician Certificate Miranda Cook, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Steven Craythorn, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Queen Cheska Angelica Domingo, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Renee Fowler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; In Kyu Kang, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Katelyn Levesque, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shania Lewis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Autumn Luna, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ahren Mahoney, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Emma Meece, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jessie Navarro, Pharmacy Technician Certificate Sandra&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Payne, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Daniela Pulido, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Auja Saunders, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Karissa Smith, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Chelsea Tagaloa, A.A.S. Katie Torkelson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Marden Warner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Darlene Wilcher, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jamie Willis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Garfield Erika Wilder, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Great Bend Manuel Ayala, Plumbing Certificate Pamela Bujanda, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kammi Burroughs, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sage Cauley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Devin Christiansen, Welding Technology Certificate Addison Crites, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stacy Davis, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shelbie Deason, Practical Nursing Certificate Brook Degenhardt, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carly Dreiling, Practical Nursing Certificate Azha Elliott, Practical Nursing Certificate Jessica Espino, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Medical Assistant Tianna Farris, Practical Nursing Certificate Mara Fletchall, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Israel Franco, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Karla Garcia, Welding Technology Certificate Joseph Givens, Practical Nursing Certificate Aleasha Gouge, A.A.S. Dylan Graham, Crop Protection Certificate Jaci Guthrie, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ivan Gutierrez, Plumbing Certificate Chad Hallmark, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Natural Gas Technician Certificate Wittney Hammeke, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Breana Hearn, Practical Nursing Certificate Alex Hernandez, Welding Technology Certificate Markie Hestand, Practical Nursing Certificate Braeden Hopkins, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keely Ireland, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Darian Knox, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Teegan Krol, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julia Lake, Practical Nursing Certificate Sara Macias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Colter Maldonado, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Marvin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Richard Mason, Scales Technician Certificate Ashley Mathias, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sara Mayta, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aiden Miller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Fabian Montes, Plumbing Certificate Liliana Montes, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Amanda Neeley, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Damarys Nieto, Practical Nursing Certificate Ryan Ochoa, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nautika Richards, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Giselle Sanchez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jesus Sanchez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Sandy, Practical Nursing Certificate Kirsten Schilowsky, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Reagan Schridde, Practical Nursing Certificate Sayra Solis, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Mandee Solko, Practical Nursing Certificate Taylor Urban, Practical Nursing Certificate Braulio Vargas, Practical Nursing Certificate Brooke Vratil, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Melissa Willard, Medical Coding Certificate Cedric Williams, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Haviland Kaylee Hottovy, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays Corey Hale, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Maigen Jay, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Haleigh Spray, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Rhoades, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Haysville Taylor Cessna, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jackson Hartley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Herington Jillian French, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Troy Hardwick, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nathen Hover, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jacqueline Kryger, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hill City Katlynn Mauck, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Drake Stephen, Practical Nursing Certificate

Hoisington Jadynn Andereck, Welding Technology Certificate Jacquelyn Armstrong, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sarah Bray, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Quincy Cross, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sheyanne Drylie, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Chandra Ehler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Janai Jacobs, Practical Nursing Certificate Jennah Jeffrey, Practical Nursing Certificate Cassie Morales, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lorelee Patterson, Practical Nursing Certificate Dayne Yott, A.A.S.

Holton Hayden Rivers, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Holyrood Taylor Musil, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hudson Ashley Prescott, Practical Nursing Certificate

Hutchinson Carson Cornelius, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Izaiah Del Valle, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Paige Nuss, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kristen Williams, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Junction City Sophia Baskerville, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Yeriela Bell, A.A.S. Adolfo Blanco, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aureia Butler, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Angelica Early, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Alexander Flores, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Matthew Gibson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Alina Halbach, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Roberto Haro Aguilar, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jordan Irby, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Rick Janssen, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jordan Leighty, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Audrey Lichtensteiger, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sandra Ly Valdez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylie Mcbride, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kesta Moyer, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Joel Nieves, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aleksandra Rojas, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Henry Rojas, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Tamia Stamper, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michelle Stokes, A.A.S. Anthony Twiggs, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Audrie Yates, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kansas City Tyrone Bates, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kechi Isabella Gardea, A.A.S. and Early Childhood Development Certificate

Kensington Brennan Kirchhoff, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kingman Peighton Sasina, Practical Nursing Certificate

Kinsley Madison McElwain, Practical Nursing Certificate

Kirwin Brittany Atchison, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

La Crosse Kaden Depperschmidt, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cheyenne Sheffer, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lakin Christan Pierce, Dietary Manager Certificate

Lansing Trinity Christensen, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sara Gorski, A.S. Harrison Kurz, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Larned Terry Adams, Welding Technology Certificate Katherine Alnor, Practical Nursing Certificate Roy Arnold, Welding Technology Certificate Skyler Brook, Welding Technology Certificate Madalyne Casey, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lydia Duft, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Seth Duque, Welding Technology Certificate Amber Hewson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dallas Jones, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Thomas LeGrand, Welding Technology Certificate Jessica Linarez, Practical Nursing Certificate Richard Manion, Welding Technology Certificate Dallas Mcclellan, Welding Technology Certificate Jared Mcfadden, Practical Nursing Certificate Juan Murillo, Welding Technology Certificate Matthew Neumann, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Savannah Racette, A.A.S. Jessica Runnels, Practical Nursing Certificate Zedrick&nbsp;Spencer, Welding Technology Certificate Corrie Upson, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ruthie Webster, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Grace Winget, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lawrence David Stuart, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Zachary Thornton, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Leavenworth Rhiannon Brookshire, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jacobi Capleton, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Gia Castro, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Ewert, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annaliese Waugh, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kimberly Zimmerman, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lewis Luisa Portillo, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kirby Sebes, Crop Protection Certificate

Lincoln Michael Holeman, A.A.S. Austin&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Raney&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Little River Justus Hampton, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lyons Erin Cox, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Trent Keffer, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Heriberto Martinez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Davon Morris, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Emma Myers, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Keaton Richardson, A.A.S. and Natural Gas Technician Certificate Brianna Russell, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Tausha Wheat, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lindsey Winkelman, Practical Nursing Certificate

Macksville Anna Suiter, Practical Nursing Certificate Lexas Wright, Practical Nursing Certificate

Manhattan Elisabeth Alteson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dawson Beffa, A.A.S. Tatyana Burnell, A.A.S. Dante Harper, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dean Rightnowar, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Maria Sanchez-Gutierrez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Wyatt Voth, A.A.S. Brendon Wildes, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Cody Woodruff, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Maple Hill&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Amanda Swimmer, A.A.S and Emergency Management and Homeland Security Certificate

Marquette Cade Young, A.A.S. and Natural Gas Technician Certificate

McLouth Brooke Mortsolf, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

McPherson Jonah Clarke, Natural Gas Technician Certificate Amy Gerbrandt, Practical Nursing Certificate

Medicine Lodge Jaycee Patton, A.A.S and Beef Cattle Production Certificate

Miltonvale Jager Huyghebaert, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Minneapolis Mckenzie Cramer, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ness City Jose Lopez, Plumbing Certificate

Norton Brandon Quintana, A.A.S. and Networking Specialist Certificate

Ogden Gregory Austin, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kelly Hayden, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Juan Salinas, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Olathe Toni Villarreal, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Daniel Wheatman, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Osawatomie Vincent Fox, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dawn Rivera, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Otis Cora Anderson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kendall Steinert, A.A.S.

Overbrook Nicholas Hageman, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Overland Park&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Marice Watson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Oxford Christy Wierick, OSHA Safety and Health Certificate

Park City Jordan Ellison, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Pawnee Rock&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Melissa Strain, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Phillipsburg Evelyn Ebner, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annette Kennedy, Dietary Manager Certificate

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