The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi8xMTYzL1JlcG9ydC1hbi1JbGxuZXNzLW9yLUhlYWx0aC1JbmNpZGVudD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.gmEfzyUCqamTb9Cbeni4I6pvCkOzIy6WekZHzgKJJUg/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.&nbsp;

Warning&nbsp; Colwich City Lake, Sedgwick County&nbsp; Crystal Lake, Anderson County (Added on June 30) Ford County Lake, Ford County Garnett Lake (north), Anderson County&nbsp; Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County&nbsp; Lake Scott State Park, Scott County (Added on June 30) Marion Reservoir, Marion County (Elevated on June 30) Milford Lake Zone C, Geary and Clay County&nbsp; Parsons Lake, Neosho County (Added on June 30) Riggs Park Lake, Sedgwick County (Added on June 30)

Watch Gathering Pond, Geary County&nbsp; Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County (Lowered on June 30) Melvern Lake, Osage County (Added on June 30) Milford Lake Zone B, Geary County&nbsp; Norton Lake, Norton County (Added on June 30)&nbsp; Pomona Lake, Osage County (Added on June 30)

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi9IQUI_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.cJpz8iCYIkSblZsulDdmh2Qyv7gco5SQzlE6DzPj2Qk/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9pbmRleC5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.UIDbTkGAoXC26Ye01SztAcBHmSO_dSGfx-FxM_HLhnY/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank"></a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi8xMTYzL1JlcG9ydC1hbi1JbGxuZXNzLW9yLUhlYWx0aC1JbmNpZGVudD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.gmEfzyUCqamTb9Cbeni4I6pvCkOzIy6WekZHzgKJJUg/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.&nbsp;Active Advisories&nbsp;Warning&nbsp; Colwich City Lake, Sedgwick County&nbsp; Crystal Lake, Anderson County (Added on June 30) Ford County Lake, Ford County Garnett Lake (north), Anderson County&nbsp; Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County&nbsp; Lake Scott State Park, Scott County (Added on June 30) Marion Reservoir, Marion County (Elevated on June 30) Milford Lake Zone C, Geary and Clay County&nbsp; Parsons Lake, Neosho County (Added on June 30) Riggs Park Lake, Sedgwick County (Added on June 30)Watch Gathering Pond, Geary County&nbsp; Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County (Lowered on June 30) Melvern Lake, Osage County (Added on June 30) Milford Lake Zone B, Geary County&nbsp; Norton Lake, Norton County (Added on June 30)&nbsp; Pomona Lake, Osage County (Added on June 30)A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage will be posted at all public access locations.&nbsp;</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.&nbsp;</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi9IQUI_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.cJpz8iCYIkSblZsulDdmh2Qyv7gco5SQzlE6DzPj2Qk/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MzAuNjAxNTk0MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9pbmRleC5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.UIDbTkGAoXC26Ye01SztAcBHmSO_dSGfx-FxM_HLhnY/s/1305943094/br/134985306577-l" target="_blank"></a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae

Most folks jump at the chance to hop in the combine and get a firsthand look at the Kansas wheat harvest from the buddy seat. For Mexican flour millers — like the team that visited Kansas and Ohio in June&nbsp;— it’s not just a joyride, but a chance to evaluate their main material directly from the source. And for Kansas farmers, these conversations with large and important customers keeps grain flowing south.

“We are excited to be able to bring customers to the U.S. again to meet face-to-face with U.S. wheat farmers and to learn about the U.S. marketing system,” said Stephanie Bryant-Erdmann, U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) assistant regional director for Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and Venezuela, who led the team. “The face-to-face conversations and hands-on experiences an in-person trade team offers are invaluable.”

“Virtual meetings, conferences and events have allowed USW to remain in close contact with our customers around the world during the past two years, but there’s nothing like riding in the combine with the U.S. farmer as they harvest their wheat; standing in the field of wheat rolling the wheat head between your hands to check the kernels; or breaking bread together and we are pleased to be able to share these in-person experiences with our customers again.”

The Kansas Wheat Commission is a member of USW, which combines funding from 17 state wheat commissions and cost-share grants from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). USW promotes the reliability, quality and value of all six U.S. wheat classes to wheat buyers, millers, bakers, food processors and government officials in more than 100 countries around the world.

As part of this work, USW organizes in-person tours across the globe to provide firsthand insights into the current year’s wheat harvest. Kansas Wheat staff regularly participates in these programs to provide personalized information to each market and receive feedback directly from customers.

Area fields were rained out in Kansas, meaning no combine rides, but the team did have the chance to learn more about the Kansas wheat from farm to export. In Manhattan, the team toured the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center to learn more about the industry and ongoing research. At the USDA Center for Grain and Animal Health Research, the team received an update on this year’s crop quality and the IGP Institute offered an overview of international education opportunities.

In the field, the team toured the Grain Craft flour mill in McPherson and visited MKC’s grain terminal in Canton, interested specifically in the train&nbsp;loader and inspection station. Rail is an important piece of the flow of wheat from the United States to Mexico. Train loading facilities and direct rail access make transportation directly to Mexican flour mills easy. In the 2021/2022 marketing year, 74 percent of U.S. wheat exports to Mexico were delivered via direct rail, an average of five unit or shuttle trains (110 rail cars a piece) per week.

Those rail shipments add up to make Mexico an important market for U.S. wheat producers. Mexico has been the largest market for U.S. wheat by volume for six consecutive years as well as the top market for both U.S. hard red winter (HRW) and soft red winter (SRW) wheat. In the 2021/2022 marketing year, which ended on May 31, Mexico purchased nearly 136 million bushels (3.7 million metric tons) of U.S. wheat, up two percent from the previous year. In the first week of the 2022/2023 marketing year, Mexico purchased 29.5 million bushels (802,000 metric tons) of U.S. wheat, including 6.28 million bushels (171,000 metric tons) of U.S. HRW wheat.

That’s good news for wheat producers — and all the more reason to open the door to the combine and invite the world in to see just how hard Kansans work year-in and year-out to provide the world’s most reliable choice of quality wheat.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628192871161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Most folks jump at the chance to hop in the combine and get a firsthand look at the Kansas wheat harvest from the buddy seat. For Mexican flour millers — like the team that visited Kansas and Ohio in June&nbsp;— it’s not just a joyride, but a chance to evaluate their main material directly from the source. And for Kansas farmers, these conversations with large and important customers keeps grain flowing south. “We are excited to be able to bring customers to the U.S. again to meet face-to-face with U.S. wheat farmers and to learn about the U.S. marketing system,” said Stephanie Bryant-Erdmann, U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) assistant regional director for Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and Venezuela, who led the team. “The face-to-face conversations and hands-on experiences an in-person trade team offers are invaluable.” “Virtual meetings, conferences and events have allowed USW to remain in close contact with our customers around the world during the past two years, but there’s nothing like riding in the combine with the U.S. farmer as they harvest their wheat; standing in the field of wheat rolling the wheat head between your hands to check the kernels; or breaking bread together and we are pleased to be able to share these in-person experiences with our customers again.” The Kansas Wheat Commission is a member of USW, which combines funding from 17 state wheat commissions and cost-share grants from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). USW promotes the reliability, quality and value of all six U.S. wheat classes to wheat buyers, millers, bakers, food processors and government officials in more than 100 countries around the world. As part of this work, USW organizes in-person tours across the globe to provide firsthand insights into the current year’s wheat harvest. Kansas Wheat staff regularly participates in these programs to provide personalized information to each market and receive feedback directly from customers. Area fields were rained out in Kansas, meaning no combine rides, but the team did have the chance to learn more about the Kansas wheat from farm to export. In Manhattan, the team toured the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center to learn more about the industry and ongoing research. At the USDA Center for Grain and Animal Health Research, the team received an update on this year’s crop quality and the IGP Institute offered an overview of international education opportunities. In the field, the team toured the Grain Craft flour mill in McPherson and visited MKC’s grain terminal in Canton, interested specifically in the train&nbsp;loader and inspection station. Rail is an important piece of the flow of wheat from the United States to Mexico. Train loading facilities and direct rail access make transportation directly to Mexican flour mills easy. In the 2021/2022 marketing year, 74 percent of U.S. wheat exports to Mexico were delivered via direct rail, an average of five unit or shuttle trains (110 rail cars a piece) per week. Those rail shipments add up to make Mexico an important market for U.S. wheat producers. Mexico has been the largest market for U.S. wheat by volume for six consecutive years as well as the top market for both U.S. hard red winter (HRW) and soft red winter (SRW) wheat. In the 2021/2022 marketing year, which ended on May 31, Mexico purchased nearly 136 million bushels (3.7 million metric tons) of U.S. wheat, up two percent from the previous year. In the first week of the 2022/2023 marketing year, Mexico purchased 29.5 million bushels (802,000 metric tons) of U.S. wheat, including 6.28 million bushels (171,000 metric tons) of U.S. HRW wheat. That’s good news for wheat producers — and all the more reason to open the door to the combine and invite the world in to see just how hard Kansans work year-in and year-out to provide the world’s most reliable choice of quality wheat. Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wheat Scoop: Mexican flour millers take tour of KS wheat industry

The City of Great Bend reminds all citizens that although the Barton County Commission allowed an extra day of shooting fireworks in rural parts of the county on July 3 and July 4, that is NOT allowed within the city limits of Great Bend.

Fireworks are only allowed in town on July 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656604488244.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Great Bend reminds all citizens that although the Barton County Commission allowed an extra day of shooting fireworks in rural parts of the county on July 3 and July 4, that is NOT allowed within the city limits of Great Bend.Fireworks are only allowed in town on July 4.

Fireworks within Great Bend city limits only on the 4th

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/58cd1fcc-8ebe-4a1a-bfb2-7fab9f794739">Barton Co. Commission compromises on extra day to shoot fireworks</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f9034859-0d72-4110-bf95-36a6f14809b6">65 job openings, Barton's college considering pay increases</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b2f1e4a3-ba65-4ca3-a977-3637fd4decc7">Trash rates increasing at Barton County Landfill</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625170103598.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission voted in favor of allowing fireworks to be discharged July 3 and July 4 this year in the unincorporated areas of the county." />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission voted in favor of allowing fireworks to be discharged July 3 and July 4 this year in the unincorporated areas of the county.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/crhvkg34/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/58cd1fcc-8ebe-4a1a-bfb2-7fab9f794739">Barton Co. Commission compromises on extra day to shoot fireworks</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f9034859-0d72-4110-bf95-36a6f14809b6">65 job openings, Barton's college considering pay increases</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b2f1e4a3-ba65-4ca3-a977-3637fd4decc7">Trash rates increasing at Barton County Landfill</a>

Eagle Radio's News Week in Review

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

After holding informational meetings this summer on the impact and conducting a study, the
Farmers Co-op of Carmen, Oklahoma merger with the Great Bend Co-op is official.
Carmen members voted “yes” Thursday to the merger which will add five locations
in Oklahoma to the Great Bend business. 
Great Bend Co-op Chief Executive Officer Chris Wagner said the merger had very little to do with
crossing into Oklahoma. The enticing part of the merger is to create more
savings to members and expanded services and facilities. 
"An interim manager that was here, his name was Randy Robeson," said Wagner. "After he left here, he went down to Farmers Co-op of Carmen. He had started discussions on how we could work together and share assets.&nbsp;

"For crop timing, they (Oklahoma) are always ahead of us on wheat. There are times where we (Kansas) are really busy and they're not. There will be that ability to share assets and people to help us be more efficient." 
Wagner said quite a few producers from the central Kansas area haul their rye
to the Ames, Oklahoma location, operated by the Farmers Co-op of Carmen. The Oklahoma
acquisition would add Carmen, Ames, Cherokee, Aline and Drummond locations to
the Great Bend Co-op reach. "Long term, building a business that can attract talent and provide career paths for employees is a large issue to continue to attract people back into rural America," said Wagner. "Whether that is Great Bend or Cherokee, Oklahoma. Those were the ideas that were the foundation to starting the merger talks." 
The five locations in Oklahoma will add roughly three million bushels in grain
storage to the Great Bend Co-op. 
The merger has a proposed effective date of Oct. 1, 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656686812926.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter holding informational meetings this summer on the impact and conducting a study, the
Farmers Co-op of Carmen, Oklahoma merger with the Great Bend Co-op is official.
Carmen members voted “yes” Thursday to the merger which will add five locations
in Oklahoma to the Great Bend business. 
Great Bend Co-op Chief Executive Officer Chris Wagner said the merger had very little to do with
crossing into Oklahoma. The enticing part of the merger is to create more
savings to members and expanded services and facilities. 
"An interim manager that was here, his name was Randy Robeson," said Wagner. "After he left here, he went down to Farmers Co-op of Carmen. He had started discussions on how we could work together and share assets.&nbsp;"For crop timing, they (Oklahoma) are always ahead of us on wheat. There are times where we (Kansas) are really busy and they're not. There will be that ability to share assets and people to help us be more efficient." 
Wagner said quite a few producers from the central Kansas area haul their rye
to the Ames, Oklahoma location, operated by the Farmers Co-op of Carmen. The Oklahoma
acquisition would add Carmen, Ames, Cherokee, Aline and Drummond locations to
the Great Bend Co-op reach. "Long term, building a business that can attract talent and provide career paths for employees is a large issue to continue to attract people back into rural America," said Wagner. "Whether that is Great Bend or Cherokee, Oklahoma. Those were the ideas that were the foundation to starting the merger talks." 
The five locations in Oklahoma will add roughly three million bushels in grain
storage to the Great Bend Co-op. 
The merger has a proposed effective date of Oct. 1, 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Co-op adding Oklahoma locations with new merger

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Megan Barfield, President, of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her second year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Wisconsin School of Business in Madison, WI.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Barfield started her non-profit career in 2014 with Volunteers in Action followed by the Golden Belt Community Foundation, both in Great Bend, KS. In 2016 she started at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce working as the Director of Member Relations before moving into her current role as President/CEO in January, 2020.

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656609368054.jpeg" alt="Megan Barfield" />
 <figcaption>Megan Barfield</figcaption>
 </figure>Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Megan Barfield, President, of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her second year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Wisconsin School of Business in Madison, WI.“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”Barfield started her non-profit career in 2014 with Volunteers in Action followed by the Golden Belt Community Foundation, both in Great Bend, KS. In 2016 she started at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce working as the Director of Member Relations before moving into her current role as President/CEO in January, 2020.Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

Great Bend Chamber CEO completes second year at leadership program

Since Heather Holaday, nurse practitioner, has completed advanced training in wound care, she now provides all treatment in this specialty at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.

Previously, Holaday worked side-by-side with Kelly Miller, advanced practice registered nurse certified in wound care. Miller traveled regularly to Larned from HaysMed, her home base. Miller and Dr. Zurab Tsereteli, HaysMed general surgeon, provided the specialized training.

“I was so fortunate to learn from their expertise,” said Holaday, who also earned a doctor of nursing practice degree. “I absolutely loved the training program and getting to work with Kelly on a regular basis. She is a phenomenal nurse practitioner and co-worker who takes pride in her work.”

Miller no longer travels to PVCH, 923 Carroll, each week but she is available to collaborate with Holaday.

“Although we are an hour apart, I consider us a team; it is a blessing to have her continued expertise available,” Holaday commented. “She was and still is a huge asset to our team at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.”

Wound care is offered from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays each week. Flexible scheduling accommodates most patients.

This service is crucial for people with conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous or arterial ulcers, burns, peristomal ostomy ulcers and non-healing surgical incisions.

Inpatient and outpatient treatments can prevent or address infection, ensure adequate healing and reduce healing time associated with wound closure.

“I feel very fortunate to provide this valuable wound-care service to our local community and surrounding area,” Holaday noted. “It is something I am passionate

about and truly feel privileged to be part of it. Anyone concerned about wound care is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.”

Holaday is a family-medicine provider at Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, 713 W. 11th. She cares for patients with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, anemia and depression/anxiety. Acute conditions include infections, lacerations and other injuries.

Holaday also is experienced in workman’s compensation issues, women’s health, physical exams and well-child checks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656596644626.jpeg" alt="Heather Holaday, PVCH nurse practitioner" />
 <figcaption>Heather Holaday, PVCH nurse practitioner</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSSince Heather Holaday, nurse practitioner, has completed advanced training in wound care, she now provides all treatment in this specialty at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.Previously, Holaday worked side-by-side with Kelly Miller, advanced practice registered nurse certified in wound care. Miller traveled regularly to Larned from HaysMed, her home base. Miller and Dr. Zurab Tsereteli, HaysMed general surgeon, provided the specialized training.“I was so fortunate to learn from their expertise,” said Holaday, who also earned a doctor of nursing practice degree. “I absolutely loved the training program and getting to work with Kelly on a regular basis. She is a phenomenal nurse practitioner and co-worker who takes pride in her work.”Miller no longer travels to PVCH, 923 Carroll, each week but she is available to collaborate with Holaday.“Although we are an hour apart, I consider us a team; it is a blessing to have her continued expertise available,” Holaday commented. “She was and still is a huge asset to our team at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.”Wound care is offered from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays each week. Flexible scheduling accommodates most patients.This service is crucial for people with conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous or arterial ulcers, burns, peristomal ostomy ulcers and non-healing surgical incisions.Inpatient and outpatient treatments can prevent or address infection, ensure adequate healing and reduce healing time associated with wound closure.“I feel very fortunate to provide this valuable wound-care service to our local community and surrounding area,” Holaday noted. “It is something I am passionateabout and truly feel privileged to be part of it. Anyone concerned about wound care is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.”Holaday is a family-medicine provider at Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, 713 W. 11th. She cares for patients with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, anemia and depression/anxiety. Acute conditions include infections, lacerations and other injuries.Holaday also is experienced in workman’s compensation issues, women’s health, physical exams and well-child checks.

Holaday treats wound-care patients at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

ELLIS&nbsp; COUNTY —The Ellis Police Department released more details Friday
afternoon into the disappearance of a 53-year-old Ellis woman.

According to Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith, the body of
53-year-old Twila Wilson was found just after 9:30 a.m. Friday approximately
1,000 feet to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing.

Wilson was initially reported missing just after 7 a.m. Friday
after she failed to show up for work.

Smith said that they believe that she was hit by the train
as the was walking along the tracks. An autopsy was performed and he said the
cause and manner of Wilson’s death is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656686095522.jpeg" alt="Twila Wilson, 54, was last seen around 5:15 a.m. at Caseys, 213 Washington, leaving behind her phone and purse. Photo courtesy Ellis Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Twila Wilson, 54, was last seen around 5:15 a.m. at Caseys, 213 Washington, leaving behind her phone and purse. Photo courtesy Ellis Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS&nbsp; COUNTY —The Ellis Police Department released more details Friday
afternoon into the disappearance of a 53-year-old Ellis woman.According to Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith, the body of
53-year-old Twila Wilson was found just after 9:30 a.m. Friday approximately
1,000 feet to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing.Wilson was initially reported missing just after 7 a.m. Friday
after she failed to show up for work.Smith said that they believe that she was hit by the train
as the was walking along the tracks. An autopsy was performed and he said the
cause and manner of Wilson’s death is still under investigation.--------

Police: Missing Ellis Co. woman found dead near railroad tracks

Each year, the Clara Barton Foundation awards scholarships to applicants interested in pursuing a degree in the medical field. These scholarships have been funded through scholarship endowments that have been established over the years. This year the Foundation awarded nine scholarships, totaling $4,500.

The Verda Lane scholarship was made possible through an endowment established by her family in honor of her years of dedicated nursing service. The scholarship assists students in their academic pursuit to become a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This year, the Verda Lane scholarship was awarded to Krista Schneider of Olmitz, Victoria Chacon of Wichita, and Jennah Jeffrey of Hoisington.

· Krista Schneider is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2018). Krista graduated with her BSN from Fort Hays State University in May, recently passed state boards, and has been accepted into the Doctor of Nursing Program at FHSU. While pursuing her doctorate, she plans to work as an RN in the Intensive Care Unit at Wesley Medical Center. Ultimately, Krista would love to stay in Kansas and work as a family nurse practitioner in the clinic setting, caring for others in all areas of life.

· Victoria Chacon attends Wichita State University, pursuing a degree in nursing. In high school, Victoria participated in a job shadow program that allowed her to explore many different units across the hospital and sparked her interest in healthcare.

· Jennah Jeffrey is a former graduate of Central Plains High School (Class of 2021) and a current CNA at Clara Barton. She is enrolled in the Registered Nursing program at Barton Community College. After completing the program, she plans to earn her BSN and dreams of eventually becoming either a Nurse Anesthetist or a Nurse Practitioner. Jennah hopes to combine her love of anatomy and physiology with her caring attitude in order to make a positive impact in the rural area in which she was raised.

The Jonathan Witt Scholarship supports students planning to pursue a healthcare professional curriculum. This scholarship is the oldest scholarship offered, having been continually awarded since the formation of the Hospital Auxiliary organization in the 1950’s. The auxiliary members voted to rename the scholarship in 2004 and established an endowment with the Foundation in honor of Jonathan Witt, son of Dr. Dan and Sandi Witt. This year, the scholarships were awarded to Macy Hanzlick, Marissa Jonas, and Maleigha Schmidt, all from Hoisington.

· Macy Hanzlick is a recent graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2022) and plans to begin classes at Pratt Community College in the fall. During her time working as a CNA in high school, she enjoyed the patient relationship building process and medical culture, but decided to pursue a more specialized service, which is how she chose Radiology. She plans to also obtain a degree in sonography and looks forward to being able to care for patients during their time of need.

· Marisa Jonas is a former graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2016). In 2021, she graduated from Fort Hays State University with her Bachelor of Science. This fall, she will begin her second year of optometry school at Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry. She enjoys the patient interaction, diversity of cases, variety of patient treatments, and seeing patient satisfaction. After professional school, Marisa plans to return to the area and give back to the community that raised her. Ultimately, she would love to own and operate a practice locally.

· Maleigha Schmidt is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2019) and currently a student at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Biology (Pre-Med). Throughout her childhood, she witnessed firsthand the positive impact doctors have had on her family and it solidified her decision to pursue a medical degree. After completing her undergraduate degree, Maleigha's goal is to attain a Doctorate of Anesthesiology and return to the area, hoping to make the same positive impact on the lives of others.

The Sadie Stalcup Scholarship was established in more recent years to honor Sadie Stalcup, a long-time nurse at Clara Barton Hospital. This year, three scholarships were awarded to Livvy Brewer of Hoisington, Delaney Rugan of Claflin, and Chandra Ehler of Hoisington.

· Livvy Brewer is a recent graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2022) and plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall to pursue a degree in nursing. She has always enjoyed helping others, and her love for the profession has only grown during her experience working as a CNA at Clara Barton. She enjoys the close-knit feel of the community and hopes to return to the area after graduation to practice locally.

· Delaney Rugan is a former graduate from Central Plains High School (Class of 2020). She currently attends Kansas State University, majoring in Biology Pre-Medicine. From a young age, she has had a passion for the medical field and a love of children, which influenced her decision to become a pediatrician. After graduating with her bachelors, she hopes to attend the University of Kansas Medical School to complete her medical degree. After school, Delaney hopes to return to central Kansas in order to care for the families of those that helped shape her into the person she is today.

· Chandra Ehler is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2021) and a current CNA at Clara Barton. She will begin the Practical Nursing Program at Barton Community College in the fall as the fourth person in her family to go through Barton's nursing program. After completing her RN, Chandra plans to continue her education and obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University. She then plans to spend some time working as a nurse before hopefully returning to school to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

If you would be interested in making a contribution to any of these endowments or to the Clara Barton Foundation, please visit www.clarabartonhospital.com, contact the Foundation at 620-292-0814 or mail your tax-deductible contribution to P.O. Box 25 Hoisington, Kansas 67544.

Each year, the Clara Barton Foundation awards scholarships to applicants interested in pursuing a degree in the medical field. These scholarships have been funded through scholarship endowments that have been established over the years. This year the Foundation awarded nine scholarships, totaling $4,500.The Verda Lane scholarship was made possible through an endowment established by her family in honor of her years of dedicated nursing service. The scholarship assists students in their academic pursuit to become a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This year, the Verda Lane scholarship was awarded to Krista Schneider of Olmitz, Victoria Chacon of Wichita, and Jennah Jeffrey of Hoisington.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511407380.jpeg" alt="Krista Schneider" />
 <figcaption>Krista Schneider</figcaption>
 </figure>· Krista Schneider is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2018). Krista graduated with her BSN from Fort Hays State University in May, recently passed state boards, and has been accepted into the Doctor of Nursing Program at FHSU. While pursuing her doctorate, she plans to work as an RN in the Intensive Care Unit at Wesley Medical Center. Ultimately, Krista would love to stay in Kansas and work as a family nurse practitioner in the clinic setting, caring for others in all areas of life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511533212.jpeg" alt="Victoria Chacon" />
 <figcaption>Victoria Chacon</figcaption>
 </figure>· Victoria Chacon attends Wichita State University, pursuing a degree in nursing. In high school, Victoria participated in a job shadow program that allowed her to explore many different units across the hospital and sparked her interest in healthcare.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511383629.jpeg" alt="Jennah Jeffrey" />
 <figcaption>Jennah Jeffrey</figcaption>
 </figure>· Jennah Jeffrey is a former graduate of Central Plains High School (Class of 2021) and a current CNA at Clara Barton. She is enrolled in the Registered Nursing program at Barton Community College. After completing the program, she plans to earn her BSN and dreams of eventually becoming either a Nurse Anesthetist or a Nurse Practitioner. Jennah hopes to combine her love of anatomy and physiology with her caring attitude in order to make a positive impact in the rural area in which she was raised.--The Jonathan Witt Scholarship supports students planning to pursue a healthcare professional curriculum. This scholarship is the oldest scholarship offered, having been continually awarded since the formation of the Hospital Auxiliary organization in the 1950’s. The auxiliary members voted to rename the scholarship in 2004 and established an endowment with the Foundation in honor of Jonathan Witt, son of Dr. Dan and Sandi Witt. This year, the scholarships were awarded to Macy Hanzlick, Marissa Jonas, and Maleigha Schmidt, all from Hoisington.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511444132.jpeg" alt="Macy Hanzlick" />
 <figcaption>Macy Hanzlick</figcaption>
 </figure>· Macy Hanzlick is a recent graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2022) and plans to begin classes at Pratt Community College in the fall. During her time working as a CNA in high school, she enjoyed the patient relationship building process and medical culture, but decided to pursue a more specialized service, which is how she chose Radiology. She plans to also obtain a degree in sonography and looks forward to being able to care for patients during their time of need.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511515108.jpeg" alt="Marisa Jonas" />
 <figcaption>Marisa Jonas</figcaption>
 </figure>· Marisa Jonas is a former graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2016). In 2021, she graduated from Fort Hays State University with her Bachelor of Science. This fall, she will begin her second year of optometry school at Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry. She enjoys the patient interaction, diversity of cases, variety of patient treatments, and seeing patient satisfaction. After professional school, Marisa plans to return to the area and give back to the community that raised her. Ultimately, she would love to own and operate a practice locally.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511464221.jpeg" alt="Maleigha Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Maleigha Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>· Maleigha Schmidt is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2019) and currently a student at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Biology (Pre-Med). Throughout her childhood, she witnessed firsthand the positive impact doctors have had on her family and it solidified her decision to pursue a medical degree. After completing her undergraduate degree, Maleigha's goal is to attain a Doctorate of Anesthesiology and return to the area, hoping to make the same positive impact on the lives of others.--The Sadie Stalcup Scholarship was established in more recent years to honor Sadie Stalcup, a long-time nurse at Clara Barton Hospital. This year, three scholarships were awarded to Livvy Brewer of Hoisington, Delaney Rugan of Claflin, and Chandra Ehler of Hoisington.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511425437.jpeg" alt="Livvy Brewer&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Livvy Brewer&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>· Livvy Brewer is a recent graduate of Hoisington High School (Class of 2022) and plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall to pursue a degree in nursing. She has always enjoyed helping others, and her love for the profession has only grown during her experience working as a CNA at Clara Barton. She enjoys the close-knit feel of the community and hopes to return to the area after graduation to practice locally.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511357149.jpeg" alt="Delaney Rugan" />
 <figcaption>Delaney Rugan</figcaption>
 </figure>· Delaney Rugan is a former graduate from Central Plains High School (Class of 2020). She currently attends Kansas State University, majoring in Biology Pre-Medicine. From a young age, she has had a passion for the medical field and a love of children, which influenced her decision to become a pediatrician. After graduating with her bachelors, she hopes to attend the University of Kansas Medical School to complete her medical degree. After school, Delaney hopes to return to central Kansas in order to care for the families of those that helped shape her into the person she is today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511336325.jpeg" alt="Chandra Ehler" />
 <figcaption>Chandra Ehler</figcaption>
 </figure>· Chandra Ehler is a former graduate from Hoisington High School (Class of 2021) and a current CNA at Clara Barton. She will begin the Practical Nursing Program at Barton Community College in the fall as the fourth person in her family to go through Barton's nursing program. After completing her RN, Chandra plans to continue her education and obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University. She then plans to spend some time working as a nurse before hopefully returning to school to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.If you would be interested in making a contribution to any of these endowments or to the Clara Barton Foundation, please visit www.clarabartonhospital.com, contact the Foundation at 620-292-0814 or mail your tax-deductible contribution to P.O. Box 25 Hoisington, Kansas 67544.

Clara Barton Foundation awards 9 healthcare scholarships

The Kansas Insurance Department recently made its annual distribution to local Barton County Firefighter Relief Associations (FRAs). 

Pursuant to the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act, $132,307.71 has been distributed among eight local FRAs within Barton County.

The funds from the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act are generated by a two percent tax paid by insurance companies on fire and lightning insurance premiums written in Kansas. Associations primarily use their distributed funds for insurance premiums and safety enhancements. The relief funds may pay for the health, accident, disability, and life insurance premiums of local firefighters. Safety enhancements such as new firetrucks, fire station building improvements, and firefighting gear can be purchased via relief funds loaned to local governing entities.

“Firefighters work to keep us safe, and the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act acknowledges those efforts by providing additional protections for firefighters and their loved ones,” said Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “The Act not only gives first responders needed safety nets, but it also allows local communities to provide their citizens with improved firefighting equipment and resources.”

The statewide distribution of the 2022 Kansas Firefighters Relief Act funds can be viewed at insurance.ks.gov/otherservices/firefighters/fra-relief-distributions.php. 

Kansans can learn more about the Firefighter Relief Act by visiting insurance.kansas.gov/firefighters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602090033125.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Insurance Department recently made its annual distribution to local Barton County Firefighter Relief Associations (FRAs). Pursuant to the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act, $132,307.71 has been distributed among eight local FRAs within Barton County.The funds from the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act are generated by a two percent tax paid by insurance companies on fire and lightning insurance premiums written in Kansas. Associations primarily use their distributed funds for insurance premiums and safety enhancements. The relief funds may pay for the health, accident, disability, and life insurance premiums of local firefighters. Safety enhancements such as new firetrucks, fire station building improvements, and firefighting gear can be purchased via relief funds loaned to local governing entities.“Firefighters work to keep us safe, and the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act acknowledges those efforts by providing additional protections for firefighters and their loved ones,” said Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “The Act not only gives first responders needed safety nets, but it also allows local communities to provide their citizens with improved firefighting equipment and resources.”The statewide distribution of the 2022 Kansas Firefighters Relief Act funds can be viewed at insurance.ks.gov/otherservices/firefighters/fra-relief-distributions.php. Kansans can learn more about the Firefighter Relief Act by visiting insurance.kansas.gov/firefighters.

Barton Co. firefighters receive $132K from Kansas Insurance Department

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County 911 Communications Director Dena Popp that aired June 30, 2022.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County 911 Communications Director Dena Popp that aired June 30, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/bu3cqk2j/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙County Edition: 911 Communications Director Dena Popp

Be Well Barton County hosts a family-friendly bike ride every Friday evening this summer at 6 p.m. 

The ride leaves from Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend. 

The pace is relaxed and the route goes down the designated bike route on 19th Street, around Veterans Lake, and then back down 19th, returning to Jack Kilby Square.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1654027543813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Be Well Barton County hosts a family-friendly bike ride every Friday evening this summer at 6 p.m. The ride leaves from Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend. The pace is relaxed and the route goes down the designated bike route on 19th Street, around Veterans Lake, and then back down 19th, returning to Jack Kilby Square.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Family-friendly bike ride in Great Bend again Friday night

This is day 14 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association.

The central counties of Kansas are winding down the 2022 wheat harvest while northern counties are still in full swing. With rains predicted for the weekend, Kansas farmers are in the combine, the planter, the baler or the sprayer to get ahead of any fieldwork delays.

Mike McClellan started wheat harvest in Rooks County on June 23. His soybeans came off late last fall, and since all his winter wheat follows soybeans in the crop rotation, he planted 30 percent fewer wheat acres. The wheat is pretty spotty, and most of the fields he has harvested so far have had at least some hail damage. As a result, yields range from 18 to 40 bushels per acre. Test weights are averaging 58 pounds per bushel on hail-damaged wheat up to 61 pounds per bushel. Protein is excellent at 13 to 16 percent.

KS Western Star, a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety, is yielding about five bushels per acre more than Doublestop CL Plus from Oklahoma Genetics, Inc. But, the KWA variety has slightly lower protein this year. Admitting he wouldn’t mind a bit of a rain delay, McClellan expects to wrap up winter wheat harvest on Saturday. He’ll have another wheat harvest to come as he still has 500 acres of spring wheat. A couple of more good days and everyone should be wrapped up in Ellsworth County, according to Riley Zamrzla, general manager of the Ellsworth Coop.

Yields in most places came in better than expected. Test weights started out heavy at 64 to 65 pounds per bushel, but then dropped to 58 pounds per bushel following rain. Protein was less than expected at 11 to 12 percent, which Zamrzla attributed to higher yields, indicating the crop wasn’t as stressed as thought.

Weeds are emerging due to the recent rain, so farmers are turning their attention to spraying stubble and other fields as they finish combining. Recent sprinkles in Trego County also caused a dip in test weight, but area farmers are seeing a decent harvest, according to Lynette King, secretary with Frontier Ag Inc. in Wakeeney. Test weights started heavy, ranging from 63 to 66 pounds per bushel, but after a few sprinkles have dropped down to 61 pounds per bushel. King noted the area is not seeing a lot of protein and the coop is averaging 10 to 11 percent.

Harvest here is about 80 percent complete. Yields are anywhere from 10 to 15 bushels per acre for fields planted behind corn to an average of 45 to 50 bushels per acre. Farmers in the “garden spot” that received adequate moisture are yielding much higher.

Harvest is also nearly finished in Pawnee County, according to Denny Penewit, location manager of Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned.

Overall, the coop is looking at roughly a 50 percent reduction in volume for this year’s harvest with most farmers yielding in the 30’s bushels per acre range. Some folks received a nice surprise with yields higher than that range, which was unexpected.

“There were some good spots that made good yields, and then there were some almighty poor spots,” Penewit said.

The area did not have any measurable precipitation from October through the first of the year, so the wheat was really struggling and looking rough. But, some early summer rains and cool weather slowed down plant development and let kernels fill better. As a result, test weights are surprisingly good, averaging above 60 pounds per bushel. Protein has a wide range from 10 percent up to 13 percent.

“It was a good, safe harvest, and we are always thankful for that,” Penewit said.

In northeast Kansas, a dry March, cool April and wet May made for an excellent crop this year. Jay Armstrong, an Atchison County farmer, just finished his soft red winter wheat harvest on Thursday with a farm average of 83 bushels per acre. Test weights were over 60 pounds per bushel and kernels were large.

His soybean drill was right behind the combines with rain predicted for the weekend. More farmers are talking about planting wheat next year with area wheat farmers demonstrating a strong fertility and fungicide program can pay dividends followed by double-crop beans.&nbsp;

The 2022 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use&nbsp;#wheatharvest22. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-T9d_Zt3ergL7f_LUPpCElxbqIChNqI5aDPzfq5yg8b_DLVsvo06DD1x8mZ1RVkfzIsrj-0REJDZtrT55JR5cwzS2jCSidtxFc3EZXX4mjOo&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-Qia-wQFFQfoaPmzzNO2iZGBLs8vVE8I2jSP1lUFs09WzTFp7iMsea8VubMm7jcs0Uf39yGGNBKdtAhCLap7GthdwJCHGgZYugOsjmqsjxP5&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-QDAtoPjUaE2jgtj3kUUupxIAazWdnsO0uAGAkjS3i8dmvKvJNDepIcWAJktiU3JE06uHqu1dqRt3JkQ0TGFadfuc0KYmKFCCYd4VmhiLnOJ&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656682380330.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 14 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. The central counties of Kansas are winding down the 2022 wheat harvest while northern counties are still in full swing. With rains predicted for the weekend, Kansas farmers are in the combine, the planter, the baler or the sprayer to get ahead of any fieldwork delays. Mike McClellan started wheat harvest in Rooks County on June 23. His soybeans came off late last fall, and since all his winter wheat follows soybeans in the crop rotation, he planted 30 percent fewer wheat acres. The wheat is pretty spotty, and most of the fields he has harvested so far have had at least some hail damage. As a result, yields range from 18 to 40 bushels per acre. Test weights are averaging 58 pounds per bushel on hail-damaged wheat up to 61 pounds per bushel. Protein is excellent at 13 to 16 percent. KS Western Star, a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety, is yielding about five bushels per acre more than Doublestop CL Plus from Oklahoma Genetics, Inc. But, the KWA variety has slightly lower protein this year. Admitting he wouldn’t mind a bit of a rain delay, McClellan expects to wrap up winter wheat harvest on Saturday. He’ll have another wheat harvest to come as he still has 500 acres of spring wheat. A couple of more good days and everyone should be wrapped up in Ellsworth County, according to Riley Zamrzla, general manager of the Ellsworth Coop. Yields in most places came in better than expected. Test weights started out heavy at 64 to 65 pounds per bushel, but then dropped to 58 pounds per bushel following rain. Protein was less than expected at 11 to 12 percent, which Zamrzla attributed to higher yields, indicating the crop wasn’t as stressed as thought. Weeds are emerging due to the recent rain, so farmers are turning their attention to spraying stubble and other fields as they finish combining. Recent sprinkles in Trego County also caused a dip in test weight, but area farmers are seeing a decent harvest, according to Lynette King, secretary with Frontier Ag Inc. in Wakeeney. Test weights started heavy, ranging from 63 to 66 pounds per bushel, but after a few sprinkles have dropped down to 61 pounds per bushel. King noted the area is not seeing a lot of protein and the coop is averaging 10 to 11 percent. Harvest here is about 80 percent complete. Yields are anywhere from 10 to 15 bushels per acre for fields planted behind corn to an average of 45 to 50 bushels per acre. Farmers in the “garden spot” that received adequate moisture are yielding much higher. Harvest is also nearly finished in Pawnee County, according to Denny Penewit, location manager of Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned. Overall, the coop is looking at roughly a 50 percent reduction in volume for this year’s harvest with most farmers yielding in the 30’s bushels per acre range. Some folks received a nice surprise with yields higher than that range, which was unexpected. “There were some good spots that made good yields, and then there were some almighty poor spots,” Penewit said. The area did not have any measurable precipitation from October through the first of the year, so the wheat was really struggling and looking rough. But, some early summer rains and cool weather slowed down plant development and let kernels fill better. As a result, test weights are surprisingly good, averaging above 60 pounds per bushel. Protein has a wide range from 10 percent up to 13 percent. “It was a good, safe harvest, and we are always thankful for that,” Penewit said. In northeast Kansas, a dry March, cool April and wet May made for an excellent crop this year. Jay Armstrong, an Atchison County farmer, just finished his soft red winter wheat harvest on Thursday with a farm average of 83 bushels per acre. Test weights were over 60 pounds per bushel and kernels were large. His soybean drill was right behind the combines with rain predicted for the weekend. More farmers are talking about planting wheat next year with area wheat farmers demonstrating a strong fertility and fungicide program can pay dividends followed by double-crop beans.&nbsp;The 2022 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use&nbsp;#wheatharvest22. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-T9d_Zt3ergL7f_LUPpCElxbqIChNqI5aDPzfq5yg8b_DLVsvo06DD1x8mZ1RVkfzIsrj-0REJDZtrT55JR5cwzS2jCSidtxFc3EZXX4mjOo&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-Qia-wQFFQfoaPmzzNO2iZGBLs8vVE8I2jSP1lUFs09WzTFp7iMsea8VubMm7jcs0Uf39yGGNBKdtAhCLap7GthdwJCHGgZYugOsjmqsjxP5&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TM11JBBPRRHDzGtksLXOPi9s_o1whjpNGgrnqrjw0YjQMA3Sq0WL-QDAtoPjUaE2jgtj3kUUupxIAazWdnsO0uAGAkjS3i8dmvKvJNDepIcWAJktiU3JE06uHqu1dqRt3JkQ0TGFadfuc0KYmKFCCYd4VmhiLnOJ&amp;c=BZsx_8eCBPLMASzviXipELZngYD0DWDyxS7JsCIUOF41haFclyWq2A==&amp;ch=NNI8Uy4LK8tl7PH2x_vvJELomx6sdZ1NmCCseRLJhIf00ZjkQo3FsA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos. Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat&nbsp;&nbsp;

Day 14, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Phone calls poured in to Barton County Commissioners after the announcement for Thursday's special meeting regarding extra days for fireworks discharge in unincorporated portions of the county. But cool heads prevailed at the actual meeting. 

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir expressed his concerns over the current resolution stating fireworks may be discharged only on July 4. Area fire chiefs countered that extending that period from June 27 to July 4 would stretch their departments thin. The commission compromised, adding only one extra day to discharge fireworks for the 2022 holiday.

"You've got me in an impossible situation," Bellendir told commissioners. "Under your current resolution, it is unlawful to discharge fireworks other than on July 4th. I know of two unincorporated towns who are advertising fireworks displays on Sunday, the third.

"The other issue we run into is, you start selling fireworks on (June 27), and people are going to shoot them and we get complaints. In the history of the sheriff's office, I don't know that we've ever written a summons for unlawful discharge. The people are going to discharge them no matter what." 

The commission heard from Fire Chiefs Luke McCormick of Great Bend, Spencer Proffitt of Ellinwood, Charles Keller of Albert, and Doug Hubbard of Claflin. All agreed extending the period to legally discharge fireworks would tax their departments, especially on such short notice.

"I think this whole topic is probably really due for a good work study," McCormick said, "not to have a special meeting two days before this comes in with no advanced notice - to really prepare so we've got good facts and good stats of the impacts it has on the fire department, the impacts it has on the sheriff's department, and the impact it has on the public."

With this year's July 4 holiday falling on a Monday, Bellendir also expressed concern about rural families that have requested permission to shoot fireworks as early as Saturday when family will be in town. Firefighters countered that more days will mean spreading out staff for an extended period of time.

"I understand when it's butted up to a weekend like this, I understand it would help to have that stretched out a day or two," said Proffitt. "I understand that. Getting it stretched out too far starts to back us up into a lot of wheat harvest stuff and it is a staffing issue. We get real thin." 

"Staffing-wise, seven days does create an issue," McCormick said. "You're going to extend those calls that we normally have isolated to the Fourth, you'll spread those out throughout that whole period. The seven or eight days you have up there, that to me is way too long."

Keller said wheat fields are going to be an issue regardless of their harvest status, and he fears reckless discharge of fireworks will lead to other issues in rural areas.

"Whether it's wheat that's uncut or cut stubble, it's an issue," he said. "I'm also concerned about passing this, you're going to have more people from the city going out to the rural because they know it's legal, pull into just some drive, and start shooting fireworks. Leaving their trash, so you have a trash issue for either the farmer, the township, or the county. I understand the sheriff's point. But I think maybe you're shifting call volumes from the sheriff's office to the fire departments." 

Many of the fire departments around Barton County are volunteer only. Hubbard expressed concerns about adding to those roles.

"For the ones who are volunteers, it's hard to ask somebody to stay home on their weekend or vacation day just to cover fire calls that may or may not happen," he said. 

The commission voted 4-0 on a compromise that will add just one additional day to discharge fireworks on July 3. With the matter resolved for the 2022 holiday, the body agreed to take up the matter at a future date to address some of the other concerns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647459471895.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostPhone calls poured in to Barton County Commissioners after the announcement for Thursday's special meeting regarding extra days for fireworks discharge in unincorporated portions of the county. But cool heads prevailed at the actual meeting. Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir expressed his concerns over the current resolution stating fireworks may be discharged only on July 4. Area fire chiefs countered that extending that period from June 27 to July 4 would stretch their departments thin. The commission compromised, adding only one extra day to discharge fireworks for the 2022 holiday."You've got me in an impossible situation," Bellendir told commissioners. "Under your current resolution, it is unlawful to discharge fireworks other than on July 4th. I know of two unincorporated towns who are advertising fireworks displays on Sunday, the third."The other issue we run into is, you start selling fireworks on (June 27), and people are going to shoot them and we get complaints. In the history of the sheriff's office, I don't know that we've ever written a summons for unlawful discharge. The people are going to discharge them no matter what." The commission heard from Fire Chiefs Luke McCormick of Great Bend, Spencer Proffitt of Ellinwood, Charles Keller of Albert, and Doug Hubbard of Claflin. All agreed extending the period to legally discharge fireworks would tax their departments, especially on such short notice."I think this whole topic is probably really due for a good work study," McCormick said, "not to have a special meeting two days before this comes in with no advanced notice - to really prepare so we've got good facts and good stats of the impacts it has on the fire department, the impacts it has on the sheriff's department, and the impact it has on the public."With this year's July 4 holiday falling on a Monday, Bellendir also expressed concern about rural families that have requested permission to shoot fireworks as early as Saturday when family will be in town. Firefighters countered that more days will mean spreading out staff for an extended period of time."I understand when it's butted up to a weekend like this, I understand it would help to have that stretched out a day or two," said Proffitt. "I understand that. Getting it stretched out too far starts to back us up into a lot of wheat harvest stuff and it is a staffing issue. We get real thin." "Staffing-wise, seven days does create an issue," McCormick said. "You're going to extend those calls that we normally have isolated to the Fourth, you'll spread those out throughout that whole period. The seven or eight days you have up there, that to me is way too long."Keller said wheat fields are going to be an issue regardless of their harvest status, and he fears reckless discharge of fireworks will lead to other issues in rural areas."Whether it's wheat that's uncut or cut stubble, it's an issue," he said. "I'm also concerned about passing this, you're going to have more people from the city going out to the rural because they know it's legal, pull into just some drive, and start shooting fireworks. Leaving their trash, so you have a trash issue for either the farmer, the township, or the county. I understand the sheriff's point. But I think maybe you're shifting call volumes from the sheriff's office to the fire departments." Many of the fire departments around Barton County are volunteer only. Hubbard expressed concerns about adding to those roles."For the ones who are volunteers, it's hard to ask somebody to stay home on their weekend or vacation day just to cover fire calls that may or may not happen," he said. The commission voted 4-0 on a compromise that will add just one additional day to discharge fireworks on July 3. With the matter resolved for the 2022 holiday, the body agreed to take up the matter at a future date to address some of the other concerns.

Barton Co. fire chiefs express concern over extra fireworks days

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/30) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:23 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 60 Avenue &amp; W. K-4
Highway. 
 
Fire 
 
At 8:26 a.m. a fire was reported at NW 50 Avenue &amp; NW 20 Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:40 a.m. a driving complaint was made at W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 5:36 p.m. a fire was reported at 1815 Broadway Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 7:35 p.m. a fire was reported at 97 SW 5 Avenue. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 9:16 p.m. a narcotics violation as reported at W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee
Rock. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW K-96 Highway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/30) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:23 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 60 Avenue &amp; W. K-4
Highway. 
 
Fire 
 
At 8:26 a.m. a fire was reported at NW 50 Avenue &amp; NW 20 Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:40 a.m. a driving complaint was made at W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 5:36 p.m. a fire was reported at 1815 Broadway Avenue. 
 
Fire 
 
At 7:35 p.m. a fire was reported at 97 SW 5 Avenue. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 9:16 p.m. a narcotics violation as reported at W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee
Rock. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW K-96 Highway.

Cop Shop (6/30)

BOOKED: Rodrigo Ceniceros on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael Brown on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 on warrant and $10,000 C/S on new charges.

BOOKED: Rashonda Edward on Barton County District Court warrant for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court case to serve sentence, to be released July 3.

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Burglary from a Vehicle to Commit Felony Theft, no bond set.

BOOKED: Debra Holder on multiple Great Bend Municipal Court and Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear and Probation Violation, no bond set on two of the warrants.

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

RELEASED: Rodrigo Ceniceros on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Sara Alexander on Great Bend Municipal Case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Kelly Polzin on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: John King on Barton County District Court warrant, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Burglary from a Vehicle to Commit Felony Theft, after being released to Juvenile Justice Authority.

RELEASED: Aguiriano Cabrera on Barton County District Court case for 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>6/30BOOKED: Rodrigo Ceniceros on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Michael Brown on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 on warrant and $10,000 C/S on new charges.BOOKED: Rashonda Edward on Barton County District Court warrant for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court case to serve sentence, to be released July 3.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Burglary from a Vehicle to Commit Felony Theft, no bond set.BOOKED: Debra Holder on multiple Great Bend Municipal Court and Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear and Probation Violation, no bond set on two of the warrants.BOOKED: Aguiriano Cabrera on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Rodrigo Ceniceros on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Sara Alexander on Great Bend Municipal Case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Kelly Polzin on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: John King on Barton County District Court warrant, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Burglary from a Vehicle to Commit Felony Theft, after being released to Juvenile Justice Authority.RELEASED: Aguiriano Cabrera on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (6-30)

Barton County 911 Communications Director Dena Popp sat in on the
special session Thursday conducted by the Barton County Commissioners. As the
commission decided to add an extra day to shoot fireworks in the unincorporated
areas of the county, Popp knew the communications department would be busy
regardless of the decision. 
Popp will have an extra employee staffed at the 911 call center on July 3 and July 4 as her department prepares for more calls relating to
fires, medical calls for burns and firework complaints. "With the NextGen 911 system, I'm able to go back in the reporting system we have and do a day and time search," said Popp. "Historically, this allows me to see when the increased call times are. I try to adjust my staff accordingly." 
Popp reiterated the importance calling 911 for emergencies only, such as a fire
or medical emergency, but common calls should be directed to the communications
administrative line. 
"If it is a simple firework or trash complaint, please call the administrative line," said Popp. "That line does roll over, so if it's in use it will automatically roll on to the other administrative lines. Just know if it rings a couple of times, dispatchers could be on 911 calls, but we will get your call." 
For non-emergencies, call 620-793-1920.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606774525728.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton County 911 Communications Director Dena Popp sat in on the
special session Thursday conducted by the Barton County Commissioners. As the
commission decided to add an extra day to shoot fireworks in the unincorporated
areas of the county, Popp knew the communications department would be busy
regardless of the decision. 
Popp will have an extra employee staffed at the 911 call center on July 3 and July 4 as her department prepares for more calls relating to
fires, medical calls for burns and firework complaints. "With the NextGen 911 system, I'm able to go back in the reporting system we have and do a day and time search," said Popp. "Historically, this allows me to see when the increased call times are. I try to adjust my staff accordingly." 
Popp reiterated the importance calling 911 for emergencies only, such as a fire
or medical emergency, but common calls should be directed to the communications
administrative line. 
"If it is a simple firework or trash complaint, please call the administrative line," said Popp. "That line does roll over, so if it's in use it will automatically roll on to the other administrative lines. Just know if it rings a couple of times, dispatchers could be on 911 calls, but we will get your call." 
For non-emergencies, call 620-793-1920.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Use administrative line for Barton Co. fireworks complaints, not 911

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 a.m, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 93. East wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Tonight A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. East wind 8 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Saturday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 91. North northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 6 to 11 mph.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South southeast wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.

Independence Day Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 77.

Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102.

Tuesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.

Wednesday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98.

Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Thursday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 a.m, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 93. East wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.Tonight A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. East wind 8 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Saturday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 91. North northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 6 to 11 mph.Sunday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South southeast wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.Independence Day Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 77.Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102.Tuesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.Wednesday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98.Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71.Thursday A 20-percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's Weather

From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo...

"Did you know on hot days it's important to water your bears?? Our bears love their pool, but on super hot days we also will play with them with the hose and they also like ice!"

From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo..."Did you know on hot days it's important to water your bears?? Our bears love their pool, but on super hot days we also will play with them with the hose and they also like ice!"<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fvideos%2F738503024138887%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fvideos%2F3163746913942433%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fvideos%2F423960912965818%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

While personal fireworks are not allowed to be discharged in Great Bend
until July 4, the city is preparing for another large fireworks
display the night before to kick off the holiday celebration. Great Bend
Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said the Sunday, July 3 fireworks display frees up the holiday for citizens and for city staff. 
"So many people love to shoot off their fireworks at home," said Hayes. "We've found that we have better attendance on July 3. People can go home and still celebrate with their families the next day." 
The City of Great Bend contributes $5,000 to the display and solicits donations
from businesses and individuals for the rest of the $15,000 show. 
The show has been taking place on July 3 since 2018 to free up
city staff on the holiday and not conflict with residents’ own firework shows.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The display will again be at the Great Bend Expo Complex beginning shortly
before 10 p.m. 
"We have plenty of parking," said Hayes. "You can sit on your tailgate, bring lawn chairs, whatever you want to do. It's a great show. It will come from the west." 
Gates to the parking near the Expo Complex will open at 7:30 p.m. The “soundtrack”
to the fireworks display will air on 100.7 Eagle Country beginning at 8:30 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624632985099.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile personal fireworks are not allowed to be discharged in Great Bend
until July 4, the city is preparing for another large fireworks
display the night before to kick off the holiday celebration. Great Bend
Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said the Sunday, July 3 fireworks display frees up the holiday for citizens and for city staff. 
"So many people love to shoot off their fireworks at home," said Hayes. "We've found that we have better attendance on July 3. People can go home and still celebrate with their families the next day." 
The City of Great Bend contributes $5,000 to the display and solicits donations
from businesses and individuals for the rest of the $15,000 show. 
The show has been taking place on July 3 since 2018 to free up
city staff on the holiday and not conflict with residents’ own firework shows.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The display will again be at the Great Bend Expo Complex beginning shortly
before 10 p.m. 
"We have plenty of parking," said Hayes. "You can sit on your tailgate, bring lawn chairs, whatever you want to do. It's a great show. It will come from the west." 
Gates to the parking near the Expo Complex will open at 7:30 p.m. The “soundtrack”
to the fireworks display will air on 100.7 Eagle Country beginning at 8:30 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend prepares for another July 3 fireworks display

The Barton County Road &amp; Bridge Department finished the crossroad pipe installation Thursday morning on Airport Road (SW 40 Ave) between 6th and 8th streets. 

Airport Road is no longer closed at that location.  However, Venture Corporation is milling the surface between US-56 and West Barton County Road, so they have traffic cones set up to allow two-way traffic on two lanes of the four-lane road. 

 Venture’s plan is to finish the milling work by Friday evening and start the overlay work on Tuesday, July 5.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601476447055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Road &amp; Bridge Department finished the crossroad pipe installation Thursday morning on Airport Road (SW 40 Ave) between 6th and 8th streets. Airport Road is no longer closed at that location. However, Venture Corporation is milling the surface between US-56 and West Barton County Road, so they have traffic cones set up to allow two-way traffic on two lanes of the four-lane road. Venture’s plan is to finish the milling work by Friday evening and start the overlay work on Tuesday, July 5.&nbsp;

Airport Road in Barton Co. reopened for two-way traffic

The machines are at it again. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris announced at Wednesday's commission meeting that, due to technological advancements, his office will not be refilling an upcoming vacancy. Staff in the office will be reduced from 14 to 13 employees.

"Somebody is leaving to take an opportunity someplace else," Morris said. "I'm not going to fill the position. Just simple things like better leveraging of technologies we already had, and rewriting the book in terms of how paperwork is handled, and files are handled, we've become overstaffed. We've kind of been there a while, and I was just waiting for the next opening to do it."

Morris said a closet on the fourth floor of the courthouse has been filled with files. Staff has worked to convert some of the files to a digital format to help free up some 800 square feet of additional office space in the building.

"Our excess personnel has been scanning and digitizing the files we need or want to keep, throwing out the ones we don't want or need to keep, and going through the files we have to keep forever," Morris said. "We're kind of reclaiming that office space." 

The county attorney's office has already submitted an updated budget to reflect fewer employee salaries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601910747930.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe machines are at it again. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris announced at Wednesday's commission meeting that, due to technological advancements, his office will not be refilling an upcoming vacancy. Staff in the office will be reduced from 14 to 13 employees."Somebody is leaving to take an opportunity someplace else," Morris said. "I'm not going to fill the position. Just simple things like better leveraging of technologies we already had, and rewriting the book in terms of how paperwork is handled, and files are handled, we've become overstaffed. We've kind of been there a while, and I was just waiting for the next opening to do it."Morris said a closet on the fourth floor of the courthouse has been filled with files. Staff has worked to convert some of the files to a digital format to help free up some 800 square feet of additional office space in the building."Our excess personnel has been scanning and digitizing the files we need or want to keep, throwing out the ones we don't want or need to keep, and going through the files we have to keep forever," Morris said. "We're kind of reclaiming that office space." The county attorney's office has already submitted an updated budget to reflect fewer employee salaries.

Barton Co. Attorney's Office leaving vacancy unfilled

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes that aired June 29, 2022.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes that aired June 29, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/gww42b50/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎧City Edition: Community Coordinator Christina Hayes

This is day 13 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association.

Combines are now on the roll in northwest and north central Kansas with the return of hot, windy weather. Mid-harvest rains have reduced test weights, but variety selection and farming practices are making a big difference in how the crop is finishing out.

Tanner Durham was cutting south of Randall in Jewell County on Wednesday. The family also farms in neighboring Mitchell County. Harvest here in north central Kansas is on time, having started on Monday and hoping to finish up by Friday without rain delays.

Yields are coming in from the upper 30 bushels per acre up to the 60s bushels per acre range. Proteins are averaging around 12 percent. Test weights started at 62 pounds per bushel, but after some mid-harvest rains are now at 57 pounds per bushel.

Overall, Durham reported it’s been a good harvest with clean wheat and decent seed size. The wheat is short compared to a normal year, but nowhere near as short as in other parts of the state. With spring planting also complete, farm life in north central Kansas is right on track.

Closer to the Colorado border, the Schemm family — son Clay and parents Lisa and David — started harvest in Logan County on June 21 and now have moved west to Wallace County. The family operation has more wheat acres this year, so they are harvesting about a third of their acres and hiring custom cutters to cut the other two-thirds. Altogether, they hope to be done cutting by the upcoming holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656595116597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 13 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. Combines are now on the roll in northwest and north central Kansas with the return of hot, windy weather. Mid-harvest rains have reduced test weights, but variety selection and farming practices are making a big difference in how the crop is finishing out. Tanner Durham was cutting south of Randall in Jewell County on Wednesday. The family also farms in neighboring Mitchell County. Harvest here in north central Kansas is on time, having started on Monday and hoping to finish up by Friday without rain delays. Yields are coming in from the upper 30 bushels per acre up to the 60s bushels per acre range. Proteins are averaging around 12 percent. Test weights started at 62 pounds per bushel, but after some mid-harvest rains are now at 57 pounds per bushel. Overall, Durham reported it’s been a good harvest with clean wheat and decent seed size. The wheat is short compared to a normal year, but nowhere near as short as in other parts of the state. With spring planting also complete, farm life in north central Kansas is right on track. Closer to the Colorado border, the Schemm family — son Clay and parents Lisa and David — started harvest in Logan County on June 21 and now have moved west to Wallace County. The family operation has more wheat acres this year, so they are harvesting about a third of their acres and hiring custom cutters to cut the other two-thirds. Altogether, they hope to be done cutting by the upcoming holiday. Clay Schemm noted there was not much fall growth, but a hefty early spring snow of 24 inches brought much-needed moisture during an otherwise dry year. The snow and May rains helped the wheat significantly. As a result, their farm yields — while still below normal — are averaging around 50 bushels per acre. Test weights are heavy at 61 to 63 pounds per bushel. Proteins are averaging 12.5 percent and above. Clay Schemm noted two varieties — KS Dallas from the Kansas Wheat Alliance and AgriPro/Syngenta's SY Wolverine — are performing particularly well. Fields have a little weed pressure where stands are thin but no disease pressure. The operation recently switched back to minimum tillage, where the family tills the ground before planting wheat to control perennial grasses that are resistant to chemical applications. Clay Schemm said they would ideally use a cost-effective herbicide to control the weeds, but without that option, tilling the soil is essential to keeping weeds down to preserve soil moisture. Tillage is a tool also used by Mosbarger Family Farms, which grows wheat in three northwest Kansas counties. Wheat is an important part of their crop rotation, building residue for next year’s crop. “That’s the way we make two years of dryland corn work,” said John Mosbarger, who is based in Goodland. They plan to continue their normal crop rotation regardless of price changes for the different crops. Mosbarger explained their operation was entirely no-till until three years ago when they decided to start making two to three passes with the sweep before drilling wheat. Working the ground is giving them larger soil particle size, less wind erosion and better wheat emergence. “We like to pull from a lot of different practices so that we have the most tools in our toolbox,” he said. In addition, they’ve been fighting palmer amaranth and kochia, two weeds that are resistant to herbicides. “They aren’t resistant to steel yet,” he joked. This year’s wheat harvest just started for Mosbarger Family Farms on June 27 and is expected to last about two weeks. While harvesting a field of KS Hamilton in Cheyenne County, Mosbarger said, “Wheat is pretty amazing,” noting that they didn’t get the stand they wanted in the fall and there was limited moisture throughout the growing season. Variability from field to field is based on emergence last fall. Regardless, he expects their farm to average 45 bushels per acre this year. Test weights are averaging 60 pounds per bushel and protein is right around 12 percent. Mosbarger noted their expectations of yield have changed over the years, normally hoping to grow at least 60-bushel wheat. Even though this year’s crop isn’t meeting those expectations, it’s much better than they anticipated in March.The 2022 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use&nbsp;#wheatharvest22. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1kpA6XhLUO4q9-DlkyQzwVhdfCLizFOrUA6t2csft_eIgpaprl73fbj2qdsVrDweRXcKHlG6YsU1Qgeu_khcPRicliyrWA5wYd71MgxWdkc0&amp;c=pDI6hS4OKm_XPztKHcybgFTB4J4P50vJ_S6s47KgnNCk-fh_ii8t6A==&amp;ch=wYG8Dvtv7MHSuvWWKNoyBMR_FUz3Usue1xFa86agSI1OUECGXeSj_g==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1psNEm09WU6X3JKbiuPbQrLo4WdAOFIi2TRaYjguEfv-4aL7uiSWakwoHNUJQCSnDECI1mAZBSZ-tUhHoTL-Vszxn3VH8If1qctuUThVLCf-&amp;c=pDI6hS4OKm_XPztKHcybgFTB4J4P50vJ_S6s47KgnNCk-fh_ii8t6A==&amp;ch=wYG8Dvtv7MHSuvWWKNoyBMR_FUz3Usue1xFa86agSI1OUECGXeSj_g==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1uYnkwVvigbtK1nGbNzHKvmDZJrNZS1R2a_OFkecQCTPJSXR0Y09SETM07GTsIDXkb3tyrpXevQzPfJrQ0uampikAI9npUU4N8qHnO1dPoM3&amp;c=pDI6hS4OKm_XPztKHcybgFTB4J4P50vJ_S6s47KgnNCk-fh_ii8t6A==&amp;ch=wYG8Dvtv7MHSuvWWKNoyBMR_FUz3Usue1xFa86agSI1OUECGXeSj_g==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>to share your harvest story and photos. Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat&nbsp;&nbsp;

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