By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Track athletes are no stranger to the double: winning in two different events. Sometimes the coaches do it, too. Last fall, Great Bend High School coach Lyles Lashley was named Class 5A Cross Country Coach of the Year. After his Lady Panthers finished second at the state track meet in May, Lashley has now doubled as the Class 5A Track and Field Coach, as voted by the Kansas Cross County and Track and Field Coaches Association.

"It's definitely a talented group of girls," Lashley said. "They were willing to do all the extra stuff, all the little extra challenges. Our coaching staff played a huge part in this, too. We didn't just score in certain events, we scored all over the place. That's what made it special. I'd definitely trade this for a better trophy."

Coach of the year honors are based on a formula that includes points for league, regional, and state finishes. The Lady Panthers cruised to the Western Athletic Conference title and dominated the Class 5A regional at Emporia before finishing second to Mill Valley at state. 

The 2022 Lady Panther team won the state title in the 4x400m relay (Eliana Beckham, Makenzie Premer, Sadie Spray, and Kara Feist), and won state medals in the shot put (Taryn Warren), high jump (Valarie Luna and Sadie Spray), javelin (Macy Nachtigal and Kyndall Blessing), discus (Rylie Duvall), 100m hurdles (Premer), 300m hurdles (Premer and Spray), 3200m (Addy Nicholson), 4x100m relay (Luna, Feist, Spray, Premer), and 4x800m relay (Beckham, Nicholson, Emma Loomis, Emilia Diaz).

"Hopefully with this success, we carry that on and keep building up and next year have a chance to win the whole thing," said Lashley. "We still have a great sophomore class, sprinkled in some juniors, and we had some good freshmen this year, too. I think with the combination of the kids coming up, we should be successful for years to come."

With time in Ellinwood and Great Bend, Lashley has won four Cross Country Coach of the Year honors and now has two track honors. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655140064933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTrack athletes are no stranger to the double: winning in two different events. Sometimes the coaches do it, too. Last fall, Great Bend High School coach Lyles Lashley was named Class 5A Cross Country Coach of the Year. After his Lady Panthers finished second at the state track meet in May, Lashley has now doubled as the Class 5A Track and Field Coach, as voted by the Kansas Cross County and Track and Field Coaches Association."It's definitely a talented group of girls," Lashley said. "They were willing to do all the extra stuff, all the little extra challenges. Our coaching staff played a huge part in this, too. We didn't just score in certain events, we scored all over the place. That's what made it special. I'd definitely trade this for a better trophy."Coach of the year honors are based on a formula that includes points for league, regional, and state finishes. The Lady Panthers cruised to the Western Athletic Conference title and dominated the Class 5A regional at Emporia before finishing second to Mill Valley at state. The 2022 Lady Panther team won the state title in the 4x400m relay (Eliana Beckham, Makenzie Premer, Sadie Spray, and Kara Feist), and won state medals in the shot put (Taryn Warren), high jump (Valarie Luna and Sadie Spray), javelin (Macy Nachtigal and Kyndall Blessing), discus (Rylie Duvall), 100m hurdles (Premer), 300m hurdles (Premer and Spray), 3200m (Addy Nicholson), 4x100m relay (Luna, Feist, Spray, Premer), and 4x800m relay (Beckham, Nicholson, Emma Loomis, Emilia Diaz)."Hopefully with this success, we carry that on and keep building up and next year have a chance to win the whole thing," said Lashley. "We still have a great sophomore class, sprinkled in some juniors, and we had some good freshmen this year, too. I think with the combination of the kids coming up, we should be successful for years to come."With time in Ellinwood and Great Bend, Lashley has won four Cross Country Coach of the Year honors and now has two track honors.

GBHS's Lashley earns Class 5A Coach of the Year honor

Slow down. That’s the message the Kansas Department of Transportation is telling drivers this summer.

Sobering statistics tell the story of the dangers of speeding. In 2020, Kansas recorded almost 5,000 vehicle crashes due to drivers going too fast for the conditions. Nearly 80 people lost their lives in those crashes.

“We have a lead-foot problem in Kansas,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “Speed kills, which is why our law enforcement agencies work so hard to enforce speed limits. Please slow down. Please abide by posted speed limits.”

The number of speeding citations issued on Kansas highways has been trending upward. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) reports issuing 1,758 tickets for speeding in 2019. In 2020 the number climbed to 2,823 and in 2021 was 3,309.

KDOT Traffic Safety Assistant Bureau Chief Chris Bortz said especially alarming is the rising

number of citations issued for speeds in excess of 100 m.p.h. The KHP issued 1,758 citations in 2019 for speeds of 100 m.p.h. or more. In 2020 the number of 100-plus citations climbed to 2,823 and in 2021 to 3,309.

Bortz said in the last decade, Kansas recorded 850 deaths and nearly 23,000 injuries related to speeding. He noted a high percentage of speed-related crashes involve younger drivers. Forty-five percent of all 2020 speed-related fatal crashes in Kansas were drivers between the ages of 15 and 29.

This summer, KDOT and Kansas law enforcement agencies are advancing a “Drive to Zero” public awareness campaign to shed light on the far-ranging consequences of driving too fast for the conditions. Besides the greater chance of losing control of the vehicle and not getting stopped in time, higher speeds also increase the possibility of motorists being severely injured or killed.

“Drive To Zero” will remind motorists that speeding is against the law. The campaign will encourage drivers to reduce speed when approaching an exit/entrance ramp, rounding a curve, driving in work zones or pulling a trailer and to be mindful about speeds in inclement weather and at night.

“Our goal is to save lives,” Bortz said. “Please join us in reminding all drivers to watch for and obey speed limit signs on our highways, in residential neighborhoods and on secondary roads.”

Kansas’ “Drive to Zero” campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by KDOT. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasdrivetozero.com/" target="_blank">KansasDriveToZero.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589388964536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Slow down. That’s the message the Kansas Department of Transportation is telling drivers this summer.Sobering statistics tell the story of the dangers of speeding. In 2020, Kansas recorded almost 5,000 vehicle crashes due to drivers going too fast for the conditions. Nearly 80 people lost their lives in those crashes.“We have a lead-foot problem in Kansas,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “Speed kills, which is why our law enforcement agencies work so hard to enforce speed limits. Please slow down. Please abide by posted speed limits.”The number of speeding citations issued on Kansas highways has been trending upward. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) reports issuing 1,758 tickets for speeding in 2019. In 2020 the number climbed to 2,823 and in 2021 was 3,309.KDOT Traffic Safety Assistant Bureau Chief Chris Bortz said especially alarming is the risingnumber of citations issued for speeds in excess of 100 m.p.h. The KHP issued 1,758 citations in 2019 for speeds of 100 m.p.h. or more. In 2020 the number of 100-plus citations climbed to 2,823 and in 2021 to 3,309.Bortz said in the last decade, Kansas recorded 850 deaths and nearly 23,000 injuries related to speeding. He noted a high percentage of speed-related crashes involve younger drivers. Forty-five percent of all 2020 speed-related fatal crashes in Kansas were drivers between the ages of 15 and 29.This summer, KDOT and Kansas law enforcement agencies are advancing a “Drive to Zero” public awareness campaign to shed light on the far-ranging consequences of driving too fast for the conditions. Besides the greater chance of losing control of the vehicle and not getting stopped in time, higher speeds also increase the possibility of motorists being severely injured or killed.“Drive To Zero” will remind motorists that speeding is against the law. The campaign will encourage drivers to reduce speed when approaching an exit/entrance ramp, rounding a curve, driving in work zones or pulling a trailer and to be mindful about speeds in inclement weather and at night.“Our goal is to save lives,” Bortz said. “Please join us in reminding all drivers to watch for and obey speed limit signs on our highways, in residential neighborhoods and on secondary roads.”Kansas’ “Drive to Zero” campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by KDOT. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasdrivetozero.com/" target="_blank">KansasDriveToZero.org</a>.

KDOT tells Kansas drivers to slow down

Jo Ann Roth, of Ellinwood, has put her name on the August Democratic Primary Ballot for State Representative, 113th District. Boundaries of the 113th District have changed in the recent reapportionment map. Once the Legislative District included Pratt, but now the District stretches west including the City of Larned.

Roth was employed by the federal government in the United States Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), then renamed the Farm Service Agency (FSA), for a dozen years in Barton County, Kansas. She was then elected three (3) terms to the three (3) person Barton County Committee that oversees the local FSA Office and rules upon any farmer appeals. Following 9/11, Jo Ann Roth became employed by the Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration, (TSA), until her federal retirement. 

She was a member of Kansas Agriculture &amp; Rural Leadership (KARL IV) 1998-99, touring Kansas Industries and traveling to Washington DC and South America, Chili and Argentina. 

Jo Ann Roth is a member of Kansas Farm Bureau and grew up on a farm near Cheyenne Bottoms the daughter of Bob and Bonnie Wirth.

The Candidate focused in her announcement on issues concerning Larned State Hospital. Noting a year ago in June, convicted sex offender John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's sexual predator treatment program. It was nearly three (3) months later when in September he was captured in Utah by federal marshals.

"The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services administers the Larned State Hospital which has nearly 1,000 employees who work at the 78-acre campus and serve 450 patients," said Roth.

In January, 2022, the agency ordered a security analysis of Larned State Hospital after a second patient had escaped from the sexual predator treatment program within six months. Understaffing has contributed to physical and sexual violence at the hospital. It has become common place that staff is forced to work 16-hour shifts because of unfilled positions.

"Larned State Hospital has been forced to enlist private nurse staffing agencies to fill in some gaps," said Roth. "The State can be billed as much as $175-per-hour for contract nurses or four-to-five times what an in-house nurse is paid. We can and must do better!"

The Candidate's Facebook page, Jo Ann Roth for State Representative, 113th District, Kent Roth, Treasurer page may be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064307341084

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655132662632.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jo Ann Roth, of Ellinwood, has put her name on the August Democratic Primary Ballot for State Representative, 113th District. Boundaries of the 113th District have changed in the recent reapportionment map. Once the Legislative District included Pratt, but now the District stretches west including the City of Larned.Roth was employed by the federal government in the United States Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), then renamed the Farm Service Agency (FSA), for a dozen years in Barton County, Kansas. She was then elected three (3) terms to the three (3) person Barton County Committee that oversees the local FSA Office and rules upon any farmer appeals. Following 9/11, Jo Ann Roth became employed by the Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration, (TSA), until her federal retirement. She was a member of Kansas Agriculture &amp; Rural Leadership (KARL IV) 1998-99, touring Kansas Industries and traveling to Washington DC and South America, Chili and Argentina. Jo Ann Roth is a member of Kansas Farm Bureau and grew up on a farm near Cheyenne Bottoms the daughter of Bob and Bonnie Wirth.The Candidate focused in her announcement on issues concerning Larned State Hospital. Noting a year ago in June, convicted sex offender John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's sexual predator treatment program. It was nearly three (3) months later when in September he was captured in Utah by federal marshals."The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services administers the Larned State Hospital which has nearly 1,000 employees who work at the 78-acre campus and serve 450 patients," said Roth.In January, 2022, the agency ordered a security analysis of Larned State Hospital after a second patient had escaped from the sexual predator treatment program within six months. Understaffing has contributed to physical and sexual violence at the hospital. It has become common place that staff is forced to work 16-hour shifts because of unfilled positions."Larned State Hospital has been forced to enlist private nurse staffing agencies to fill in some gaps," said Roth. "The State can be billed as much as $175-per-hour for contract nurses or four-to-five times what an in-house nurse is paid. We can and must do better!"The Candidate's Facebook page, Jo Ann Roth for State Representative, 113th District, Kent Roth, Treasurer page may be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064307341084

Ellinwood's Roth files for State Representative, 113th District

Great Bend Bombers 12u and 14u teams combined for 12 wins and a perfect weekend to each win their respective division at the AA Perfect Game Midwest State Tournament held in Kansas City this past weekend.

The 12u coached by Zack Kaiser started pool play with a pair of victories on Friday against Building Champions (5-1) and Midwest Maniax (1-0) before finishing pool play on Saturday with a win over the Kansas Outlaws (14-9). 

The three wins earned them the #1 seed in bracket play as well as a first round bye in Sunday’s action. Needing only to win two games on Sunday, the team did just that with wins over Manhattan Impact (10-2) in the semi-finals and another win over the Midwest Maniax (9-1) in the Championship game. 12u Bombers moved their overall season record to 25-4-1.

In Bombers 12u 1-0 win over the Midwest Maniax, Pitcher Cade Coleman threw the elusive perfect game. Cade faced 18 batters and gave up no runs, no hits, no walks, and four strikeouts but most importantly his teammates committed no errors in the 6-inning affair.

Bombers 14u, Coached by Rex Kern, had a perfect 7-0 weekend to win their AA 14u Perfect Game Midwest State Title. Play started Friday with pool wins over Olathe Jayhawks (14-5) and Upper Deck Wildcats (8-2). To wrap up pool play Saturday, the team defeated Yard Goats (9-1) and secured the 2nd seed in the 24-team bracket. 

Sunday saw the 14u defeat Complete Game (11-5), Wildcats (6-0), Mule Club 2022 (7-2) and Topeka Warhawks (8-0) to win the championship. With the wins the team improves their overall season record to 25-6.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655133175052.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right (back row): Coach Kaiser, Assistant Coach Jesse Richter, Assistant Coach Cameron Coleman. (2nd Row): Maxx Steffan, Noah Kaiser, Cade Coleman, Alec Premer, Gage Grove, Drake Martin, Jaden Prilling. (Kneeling): Cal Schartz, Gavin Wondra, Braxton Richter, Spencer Brown. (not pictured): Coach Chris Umphres." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right (back row): Coach Kaiser, Assistant Coach Jesse Richter, Assistant Coach Cameron Coleman. (2nd Row): Maxx Steffan, Noah Kaiser, Cade Coleman, Alec Premer, Gage Grove, Drake Martin, Jaden Prilling. (Kneeling): Cal Schartz, Gavin Wondra, Braxton Richter, Spencer Brown. (not pictured): Coach Chris Umphres.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Bombers 12u and 14u teams combined for 12 wins and a perfect weekend to each win their respective division at the AA Perfect Game Midwest State Tournament held in Kansas City this past weekend.The 12u coached by Zack Kaiser started pool play with a pair of victories on Friday against Building Champions (5-1) and Midwest Maniax (1-0) before finishing pool play on Saturday with a win over the Kansas Outlaws (14-9). The three wins earned them the #1 seed in bracket play as well as a first round bye in Sunday’s action. Needing only to win two games on Sunday, the team did just that with wins over Manhattan Impact (10-2) in the semi-finals and another win over the Midwest Maniax (9-1) in the Championship game. 12u Bombers moved their overall season record to 25-4-1.In Bombers 12u 1-0 win over the Midwest Maniax, Pitcher Cade Coleman threw the elusive perfect game. Cade faced 18 batters and gave up no runs, no hits, no walks, and four strikeouts but most importantly his teammates committed no errors in the 6-inning affair.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655133308036.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right (back row) – Trey Milsap, Jacob Hall, Trenton Kern, Tavon Stroup, Ian Premer, Kale Kern and Daxton Minton. (kneeling): Jaxon Wondra, Colin Saffa, Koehn Ribordy and Max Heilman. (not pictured): Coach Rex Kern, Assistant Coach Eli Saffa, Travis Ummel and Jason Wondra." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right (back row) – Trey Milsap, Jacob Hall, Trenton Kern, Tavon Stroup, Ian Premer, Kale Kern and Daxton Minton. (kneeling): Jaxon Wondra, Colin Saffa, Koehn Ribordy and Max Heilman. (not pictured): Coach Rex Kern, Assistant Coach Eli Saffa, Travis Ummel and Jason Wondra.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bombers 14u, Coached by Rex Kern, had a perfect 7-0 weekend to win their AA 14u Perfect Game Midwest State Title. Play started Friday with pool wins over Olathe Jayhawks (14-5) and Upper Deck Wildcats (8-2). To wrap up pool play Saturday, the team defeated Yard Goats (9-1) and secured the 2nd seed in the 24-team bracket. Sunday saw the 14u defeat Complete Game (11-5), Wildcats (6-0), Mule Club 2022 (7-2) and Topeka Warhawks (8-0) to win the championship. With the wins the team improves their overall season record to 25-6.

Two Great Bend baseball teams win state titles

GREAT BEND RECREATION COMMISSION June 13, 2022, 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center

VII. Old Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Reports: Information Item &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1. Special Needs Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. Adult Enrichment &amp; Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Youth &amp; Adult Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5. Attendance Report

VIII. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Request for Approval Audit Services: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;B. 2022-2023 Budget Timeline: Information Item &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Budget: Notice of RNR Intent: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Board Meeting Date Change: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Executive Session: Personnel Matters of Non-Elected Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp;F. 2022-2023 Strategic Plan: Information Item

X. Commissioners Time and Questions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291691646.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND RECREATION COMMISSION June 13, 2022, 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation CenterAgendaI. Call to OrderII Introduction of GuestsIII. Reading of MinutesIV. Bills PayableV. Financial ReportsVI. Liaison Report USD#428VII. Old Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Reports: Information Item &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1. Special Needs Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. Adult Enrichment &amp; Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Youth &amp; Adult Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5. Attendance ReportVIII. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Request for Approval Audit Services: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;B. 2022-2023 Budget Timeline: Information Item &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Budget: Notice of RNR Intent: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Board Meeting Date Change: Action Item &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Executive Session: Personnel Matters of Non-Elected Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp;F. 2022-2023 Strategic Plan: Information ItemIX. Other BusinessX. Commissioners Time and QuestionsXI. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec board meeting agenda (6/13)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Meter reading continues to be an issue for the City of Great Bend when
it comes to calculating customers’ water bills. Misreads and failure to read
meters have caused customer dissatisfaction and frustration. City Administrator Kendal
Francis said part of the issue with the inaccurate meter reads stems from
insufficient staff and employees that did not work out for various reasons.


Workers are required to physically inspect each residential or commercial meter
and the process has resulted in a high turnover rate. 

Francis said an Automated
Meter Reading (AMR) system could greatly improve the process for both the customer and city. 
"As meters get older, the reads are less accurate, they slow down," said Francis. "This would be wholesale replacement of those meters. We would look at additional revenues by the efficiencies it would gain within our utility billing department." 
The AMR system sends meter readings via radio waves to a collector and computer
system mounted in a vehicle. By driving around, the entire city could be read
in less than one day with no estimations. 
When the city began discussions of the AMR system a year ago, the price was
estimated at $2.2 million.

While Great Bend has American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
funds that could help pay for the project, the city would still be looking at a
loan through the Kansas Public Water Supply. Great Bend City Council member
Jolene Biggs wasn’t keen on borrowing more money at the moment. 
"We have the water line project we're still paying for," said Biggs. "We have the police station to build. You can only do so much. This would again borrow money, and I think we need to be fiscally responsible." 
The project would purchase and install approximately 6,100 commercial and
residential water meters with AMR technology. 
To get an updated cost, the city will open the project for bids June 28.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631107871390.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostMeter reading continues to be an issue for the City of Great Bend when
it comes to calculating customers’ water bills. Misreads and failure to read
meters have caused customer dissatisfaction and frustration. City Administrator Kendal
Francis said part of the issue with the inaccurate meter reads stems from
insufficient staff and employees that did not work out for various reasons.
Workers are required to physically inspect each residential or commercial meter
and the process has resulted in a high turnover rate. Francis said an Automated
Meter Reading (AMR) system could greatly improve the process for both the customer and city. 
"As meters get older, the reads are less accurate, they slow down," said Francis. "This would be wholesale replacement of those meters. We would look at additional revenues by the efficiencies it would gain within our utility billing department." 
The AMR system sends meter readings via radio waves to a collector and computer
system mounted in a vehicle. By driving around, the entire city could be read
in less than one day with no estimations. 
When the city began discussions of the AMR system a year ago, the price was
estimated at $2.2 million. While Great Bend has American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
funds that could help pay for the project, the city would still be looking at a
loan through the Kansas Public Water Supply. Great Bend City Council member
Jolene Biggs wasn’t keen on borrowing more money at the moment. 
"We have the water line project we're still paying for," said Biggs. "We have the police station to build. You can only do so much. This would again borrow money, and I think we need to be fiscally responsible." 
The project would purchase and install approximately 6,100 commercial and
residential water meters with AMR technology. 
To get an updated cost, the city will open the project for bids June 28.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pricey technology could solve Great Bend’s meter reading issues

6/10 BOOKED: Michael Mortiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Suspended and No Turn Signal, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Shelia Stiers on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Michael Mortiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Suspended and No Turn Signal, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Shelia Stiers on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Marcus Miller, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp.

RELEASED: Shannon Ybarra, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violations.

RELEASED: Michael Hurd, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear.

RELEASED: Scott Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Use of a Weapon, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

6/11 BOOKED: Curtis Rosas on McPherson Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $553 cash only.

BOOKED: Ever Chavez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving while Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Curtis Rosas on McPherson Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting cash bond of $553.

6/12 BOOKED: Jamal Wright on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jose Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Matthew Cooley on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Brodie Bretz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Horacio Carrasco on Barton County District Court case for Driving without a License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED:&nbsp;Ever Chavez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving while Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED:&nbsp;Jamal Wright on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jose Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Matthew Cooley on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Brodie Bretz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/10 BOOKED: Michael Mortiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Suspended and No Turn Signal, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Shelia Stiers on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Michael Mortiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving while Suspended and No Turn Signal, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Shelia Stiers on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Marcus Miller, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp.RELEASED: Shannon Ybarra, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violations.RELEASED: Michael Hurd, after receiving probation on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear.RELEASED: Scott Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Use of a Weapon, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.6/11 BOOKED: Curtis Rosas on McPherson Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $553 cash only.BOOKED: Ever Chavez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving while Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Curtis Rosas on McPherson Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting cash bond of $553.6/12 BOOKED: Jamal Wright on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Jose Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Matthew Cooley on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Brodie Bretz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Horacio Carrasco on Barton County District Court case for Driving without a License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED:&nbsp;Ever Chavez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving while Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED:&nbsp;Jamal Wright on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jose Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Matthew Cooley on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Calie Lundquist on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Brodie Bretz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Disorderly Conduct, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (6/10-6/12)

The USD 431 Hoisington school board held its monthly meeting last Monday. In light of the spate of recent shootings around the nation, including the May 24 school shooting in Uvalde, Texas that left 21 dead, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis announced the district will again be applying for the Safe and Secure Grant. The grant would match state funding on a dollar-to-dollar basis with local funds to help enhance school security.

"They have three primary focuses: doors, cameras, and SROs, or officers," Crowdis said. "We are primarily taking a look at going ahead and adding card readers to the Activity Center. All of the other buildings already have card readers. We have already started the infrastructure to put in cameras to the Activity Center. We will be looking at trying to get funding to help with finishing out the cameras at the Activity Center, as well as upgrading all of our memory and software on the usage of the cameras."

Crowdis also told board members of an upcoming meeting with local and county law enforcement to discuss the district's emergency plan. 

"I believe on Wednesday I should be sitting down with them to actually start that process," he said. "It's been at least 10 years since the local law enforcement has received an updated emergency plan." 

Crowdis plans to present an updated emergency plan to the council for approval at the July meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654879813764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe USD 431 Hoisington school board held its monthly meeting last Monday. In light of the spate of recent shootings around the nation, including the May 24 school shooting in Uvalde, Texas that left 21 dead, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis announced the district will again be applying for the Safe and Secure Grant. The grant would match state funding on a dollar-to-dollar basis with local funds to help enhance school security."They have three primary focuses: doors, cameras, and SROs, or officers," Crowdis said. "We are primarily taking a look at going ahead and adding card readers to the Activity Center. All of the other buildings already have card readers. We have already started the infrastructure to put in cameras to the Activity Center. We will be looking at trying to get funding to help with finishing out the cameras at the Activity Center, as well as upgrading all of our memory and software on the usage of the cameras."Crowdis also told board members of an upcoming meeting with local and county law enforcement to discuss the district's emergency plan. "I believe on Wednesday I should be sitting down with them to actually start that process," he said. "It's been at least 10 years since the local law enforcement has received an updated emergency plan." Crowdis plans to present an updated emergency plan to the council for approval at the July meeting.

Hoisington BOE discusses security measures at June meeting

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 103. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 24 to 29 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 79. Breezy, with a south wind 22 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy, with a south wind 21 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.

Tuesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 93.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 94.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 71.SundaySunny, with a high near 96. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 103. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 24 to 29 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 79. Breezy, with a south wind 22 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy, with a south wind 21 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.Tuesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. South southwest wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.Friday Sunny, with a high near 93.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 94.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 71.SundaySunny, with a high near 96. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday, June 13&nbsp; --&nbsp; 5 p.m. District Education Center - 201 South Patton Road

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

2. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Perfect Attendance Bike Give-Away Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A special note of appreciation is extended to Karen Shaner, Jane Isern, and several local donors and volunteers for providing forty-five bikes to the Perfect Attendance Bike Give-Away program. Over the past ten years, the group has organized and contributed dozens of bicycles given away as perfect attendance incentives to USD 428 elementary students. Thank you to all participants who make this program possible! &nbsp; &nbsp;• Introduction of Eisenhower Elementary Therapy Dog &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Eisenhower Elementary has received a very generous contribution, a Sheepadoodle puppy named Bailey, who will serve as the Eisenhower Therapy dog. Bailey will live with Mr. Adam Cline, Eisenhower Technology Coach, and his wife, Mrs.Tammy Cline, Special Education Teacher. Bailey will receive the proper training and attend school daily to support all students and staff at Eisenhower who are in need.

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

5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of 2022-2023 Choir Travel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; GBHS Vocal Director Susan Stambaugh will present the plans and request approval to resume the High School A Cappella trip to Washington, D.C. for this upcoming school year during Spring Break in March 2023. While in DC, students will have multiple performances and visit educational sites.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Approval of 2022-2023 KASB Risk Management &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The contract premium for KASB Risk Management Workers Compensation&nbsp;premium for the 2022-2023 year is $99,886, the same guaranteed cost as last year that includes a 10% loyalty credit of $11,098 for a three-year agreement. The administration recommends approval of $99,886 for the 2022-2023 school year.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. First Reading of BOE Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; BOE members are receiving copies of the following 36 policies, which are being presented as first readings. The policy will be returned to the BOE at a subsequent meeting for action.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision BBE Attorney &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC BDA Developing, Adopting, Amending, Repealing Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision BG Membership &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision CEC Superintendent Recruitment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision CM Policy Implementation (replaces CMA, (No change) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Deletion CMA Administrative Rules and Regulations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DB Budget Planning &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DC Annual Operating Budget &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DFAB Standard of Conduct &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DFAC Federal Fiscal Compliance (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DJFAB Administrative Leeway (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision EBA Insurance Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A ED Student Transportation Management (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC EDAA School Buses and Vehicles (opt. 2) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Refer KGAB FC Memorials, Funerals, and Naming of District Facilities &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(FC not adopted, refer to KGAB for Memorial policy) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GAA Goals and Objectives (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GBRJ Substitute Teaching &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GCIA Evaluation of Coaches and Sponsors (new to USD 428) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Title Change GCRG Leaves &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IB School Site Councils &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IDEA Student Privacy Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IF Textbooks Instructional Materials and Media Centers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A IIA Performance-Based Credits (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A IIBGB Online Learning Opportunities (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision ING Animals and Plants in the School &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JA Goals and Objectives &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JBC Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JBE Truancy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JCAC Interrogation and Investigations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JGCD Health Screenings &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC JGFF Student Transportation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JGG Transportation (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JHC Student Organization &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KB Public Information Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KBA District or School Websites &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KGA Use of District Personal Property and Equipment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KGC Bullying by Parents &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Form Revision GAAF ESI Documentation Form

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ESSER II Retention Bonus &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Elementary and Secondary School Emergency (ESSER II) federal funds issued to school districts are specifically to be used to address pandemic-related situations. The Board of Education appreciates all additional efforts of certified and classified staff for the extra measures throughout the pandemic. The administration will discuss stipends for employees and request approval.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Transportation Vehicle Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Director of Transportation Cody Schmidt will update the Board on the district vehicles that transport students. The following topics will be discussed. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Inventory &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Status &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Rotation Schedule &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Purchasing options &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;o Passenger vehicles &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;o Buses&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Approval of Elementary, Middle School, and High School Fees for 2022-2023. The administration recommends no increase from last year’s fees.

&nbsp; &nbsp;G. Approval of 2022-2023 Meal Prices

&nbsp; &nbsp;H. Approval of 2021-2022 Mileage Reimbursement Rate for district parents USD 428 pays mileage reimbursement to qualified parents/guardians for transporting students to and from their assigned attendance center. Eligibility is based on the completion of the application of students residing 2.5 miles or more from the designated attendance center and living outside the city limits of Great Bend but within the district’s bounderies. 104 families participated, transporting 176 students a total of 176,680.80 miles. The administration recommends a per-mile reimbursement rate of 50 cents.

6. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT / CURRICULUM

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. 2022 Summer School: Summer School is from 8:30 to 11:30 each day June 6 through June 30 and is for select students who have finished kindergarten through 12th grade. The district offers a complimentary breakfast and lunch for the students.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Student Withdrawal Report: Mrs. Reiser will present data and discuss trends of students who have dropped out or withdrawn from GBHS this past school year.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report: Below is a summary of personnel details. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 51 position changes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 6 Retirements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 22 Resignations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 23 Transfers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 22 new-to-district hires &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 0 position reductions &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 0 positions added &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 9 positions yet to be hired: GBHS: English, Instructional Coach, Agriculture/Welding; GBMS: English, Instructional Coach; Lincoln: Instructional Coach; Park: Instructional Coach; Riley: Special Education; Special Services: Occupational Therapist.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Beginning of 2022-2023 School Year Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 3-4 – Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 9 – Helping Hands Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 5, 8-11 – New Teacher Orientation (5 Days) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 12, 15 – Teacher Inservice &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 15 – Business Showcase/Teacher Inservice &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 16, 17 – Teacher Workday &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 18 – First Day of Classes – K-6, 7, 9 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 19 – First Day of Classes – Grades 8, 10-12

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Outside Validation Team Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The final OVT report contains recommendations and suggestions for the district to focus on for the upcoming year. Mrs. Reiser will share report details with the Board.

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

7. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Budget Update &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Student Meal Update &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Insurance Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ KERMP - District Insurance &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ FEMA – Windstorm update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Student Accident Insurance &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Project Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Summer Projects &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Support Services building &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Approval of Contributions

9. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. “Mr. President, I move that the Board go into executive session to discuss the latest proposal for increasing the base pay rate for staff pursuant to the exception for employer-employee negotiations under KOMA. The open meeting will resume in this Board room at : P.M.”

10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes (May 9, 2022) &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report &nbsp; &nbsp;D. 2022-2023 Fees (5.G through 5.H) &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Acceptance of Negotiated Agreement &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Classified Pay Adjustment &nbsp; &nbsp;G. Director Contracts &nbsp; &nbsp;H. Administrative Contracts

11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;•BOE Special Meeting: 7:30 a.m., at the end of June at the District Education Center. Potential dates are June 28, or June 29, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for July 11, 2022, at the District Education Center

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594825194804.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 428 Board of Education meeting Monday, June 13&nbsp; --&nbsp; 5 p.m. District Education Center - 201 South Patton Road1. CALL TO ORDER1.1 Roll Call1.2 Adoption of Agenda1.3 Recognition of Visitors1.4 Request to Speak Reminder &nbsp; &nbsp;• Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent on citizen participation.1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum2. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Perfect Attendance Bike Give-Away Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A special note of appreciation is extended to Karen Shaner, Jane Isern, and several local donors and volunteers for providing forty-five bikes to the Perfect Attendance Bike Give-Away program. Over the past ten years, the group has organized and contributed dozens of bicycles given away as perfect attendance incentives to USD 428 elementary students. Thank you to all participants who make this program possible! &nbsp; &nbsp;• Introduction of Eisenhower Elementary Therapy Dog &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Eisenhower Elementary has received a very generous contribution, a Sheepadoodle puppy named Bailey, who will serve as the Eisenhower Therapy dog. Bailey will live with Mr. Adam Cline, Eisenhower Technology Coach, and his wife, Mrs.Tammy Cline, Special Education Teacher. Bailey will receive the proper training and attend school daily to support all students and staff at Eisenhower who are in need.3. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Member Comments &nbsp; &nbsp;• USD 428 Education Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp;• Written Communications / Correspondence4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of 2022-2023 Choir Travel &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; GBHS Vocal Director Susan Stambaugh will present the plans and request approval to resume the High School A Cappella trip to Washington, D.C. for this upcoming school year during Spring Break in March 2023. While in DC, students will have multiple performances and visit educational sites.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Approval of 2022-2023 KASB Risk Management &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The contract premium for KASB Risk Management Workers Compensation&nbsp;premium for the 2022-2023 year is $99,886, the same guaranteed cost as last year that includes a 10% loyalty credit of $11,098 for a three-year agreement. The administration recommends approval of $99,886 for the 2022-2023 school year.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. First Reading of BOE Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; BOE members are receiving copies of the following 36 policies, which are being presented as first readings. The policy will be returned to the BOE at a subsequent meeting for action.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision BBE Attorney &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC BDA Developing, Adopting, Amending, Repealing Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision BG Membership &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision CEC Superintendent Recruitment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision CM Policy Implementation (replaces CMA, (No change) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Deletion CMA Administrative Rules and Regulations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DB Budget Planning &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DC Annual Operating Budget &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DFAB Standard of Conduct &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DFAC Federal Fiscal Compliance (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision DJFAB Administrative Leeway (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision EBA Insurance Program &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A ED Student Transportation Management (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC EDAA School Buses and Vehicles (opt. 2) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Refer KGAB FC Memorials, Funerals, and Naming of District Facilities &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(FC not adopted, refer to KGAB for Memorial policy) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GAA Goals and Objectives (replaces CMA) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GBRJ Substitute Teaching &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision GCIA Evaluation of Coaches and Sponsors (new to USD 428) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Title Change GCRG Leaves &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IB School Site Councils &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IDEA Student Privacy Policy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision IF Textbooks Instructional Materials and Media Centers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A IIA Performance-Based Credits (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; N/A IIBGB Online Learning Opportunities (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision ING Animals and Plants in the School &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JA Goals and Objectives &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JBC Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JBE Truancy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JCAC Interrogation and Investigations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JGCD Health Screenings &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision/TC JGFF Student Transportation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JGG Transportation (not applicable) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision JHC Student Organization &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KB Public Information Programs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KBA District or School Websites &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KGA Use of District Personal Property and Equipment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Revision KGC Bullying by Parents &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Form Revision GAAF ESI Documentation Form&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ESSER II Retention Bonus &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Elementary and Secondary School Emergency (ESSER II) federal funds issued to school districts are specifically to be used to address pandemic-related situations. The Board of Education appreciates all additional efforts of certified and classified staff for the extra measures throughout the pandemic. The administration will discuss stipends for employees and request approval.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Transportation Vehicle Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Director of Transportation Cody Schmidt will update the Board on the district vehicles that transport students. The following topics will be discussed. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Inventory &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Status &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Rotation Schedule &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Vehicle Purchasing options &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;o Passenger vehicles &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;o Buses&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Approval of 2022-2023 Fees&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Approval of Elementary, Middle School, and High School Fees for 2022-2023. The administration recommends no increase from last year’s fees.&nbsp; &nbsp;G. Approval of 2022-2023 Meal Prices&nbsp; &nbsp;H. Approval of 2021-2022 Mileage Reimbursement Rate for district parents USD 428 pays mileage reimbursement to qualified parents/guardians for transporting students to and from their assigned attendance center. Eligibility is based on the completion of the application of students residing 2.5 miles or more from the designated attendance center and living outside the city limits of Great Bend but within the district’s bounderies. 104 families participated, transporting 176 students a total of 176,680.80 miles. The administration recommends a per-mile reimbursement rate of 50 cents.6. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT / CURRICULUM&nbsp; &nbsp;A. 2022 Summer School: Summer School is from 8:30 to 11:30 each day June 6 through June 30 and is for select students who have finished kindergarten through 12th grade. The district offers a complimentary breakfast and lunch for the students.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Student Withdrawal Report: Mrs. Reiser will present data and discuss trends of students who have dropped out or withdrawn from GBHS this past school year.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report: Below is a summary of personnel details. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 51 position changes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 6 Retirements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 22 Resignations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 23 Transfers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 22 new-to-district hires &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 0 position reductions &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 0 positions added &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 9 positions yet to be hired: GBHS: English, Instructional Coach, Agriculture/Welding; GBMS: English, Instructional Coach; Lincoln: Instructional Coach; Park: Instructional Coach; Riley: Special Education; Special Services: Occupational Therapist.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. Beginning of 2022-2023 School Year Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 3-4 – Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 9 – Helping Hands Enrollment &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 5, 8-11 – New Teacher Orientation (5 Days) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 12, 15 – Teacher Inservice &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 15 – Business Showcase/Teacher Inservice &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 16, 17 – Teacher Workday &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 18 – First Day of Classes – K-6, 7, 9 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • August 19 – First Day of Classes – Grades 8, 10-12&nbsp; &nbsp;E. Outside Validation Team Report &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The final OVT report contains recommendations and suggestions for the district to focus on for the upcoming year. Mrs. Reiser will share report details with the Board.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. Curriculum Meetings &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Curriculum Steering Committee &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Professional Development Council (PDC): minutes 6/6/22, next meeting 8/15/227. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Budget Update &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Student Meal Update &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Insurance Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ KERMP - District Insurance &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ FEMA – Windstorm update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Student Accident Insurance &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Project Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Summer Projects &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ➢ Support Services building &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Approval of Contributions8. FINANCIAL PRESENTATION9. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. “Mr. President, I move that the Board go into executive session to discuss the latest proposal for increasing the base pay rate for staff pursuant to the exception for employer-employee negotiations under KOMA. The open meeting will resume in this Board room at : P.M.”10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes (May 9, 2022) &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report &nbsp; &nbsp;D. 2022-2023 Fees (5.G through 5.H) &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Acceptance of Negotiated Agreement &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Classified Pay Adjustment &nbsp; &nbsp;G. Director Contracts &nbsp; &nbsp;H. Administrative Contracts11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;•BOE Special Meeting: 7:30 a.m., at the end of June at the District Education Center. Potential dates are June 28, or June 29, 2022 &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for July 11, 2022, at the District Education Center12. ADJOURNMENT

USD 428 school board meeting agenda (6/13)

Over the years, many different businesses and community members have purchased a set of longhorns in support of the foundation, and it has been a tradition that each year the horns are donated back to be auctioned off the following year. 

The Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is excited to announce that this tradition will again continue as it has for the past three decades and - after two years of navigating COVID restrictions - it will finally be auctioned off in person during a live auction.

Despite having two challenging years, the longhorn tradition has continued thanks to the valiant efforts of Clara Barton supporters. Back in 2020, only select items were auctioned off through sealed bids sent to the Foundation, and the longhorns were secured in memory of Dr. Dave McMillon. Although some normalcy gradually returned last year, the benefit auction was still forced to move entirely online through a mobile bidding platform and Debra Brockel, PA secured the horns honor.

“I am thrilled that I got the chance to secure the longhorns in celebration of being a practicing provider for 30 years,” said Debra Brockel, PA. “This is the third time I’ve secured the horns honor and I think it’s a special way to display my dedication to supporting quality healthcare in our area.”

Brockel has been affiliated with Clara Barton since 2006, serving as a PA in the family practice clinical setting for 16 years. Recently, she’s made the switch to primarily working in Emergency Services.

“I absolutely love working in rural medicine and practicing at Clara Barton I feel at home,” said Brockel. “Having the opportunity to build a relationship with my patients and getting to know them both inside and outside of the hospital setting – seeing them at the grocery store, church, and community functions – is something I really enjoy.”

Although the longhorns are currently displayed in the administrative hallway at Clara Barton Medical Center, Brockel will continue the tradition by donating the longhorns back to the Foundation to be auctioned off once again at the 29th Annual Benefit Auction.

“Supporting the foundation has been important to me since day one and I admire the impact it has throughout the entire Clara Barton organization,” said Brockel. “I am proud to work somewhere that receives so much support from not only the community but internally, with departments supporting other departments as well, and I can’t wait to see who gets the horns during this year’s live auction!”

The longhorn tradition began in 1991, just one year after the creation of the Foundation and the name change of the Hospital. The steer horns were first donated to the Foundation by First Kansas Bank and

their president, Bill Lebert, of Hoisington. His wife, Kay Lebert, was a dietician at Clara Barton. The Leberts have been valued members of the Foundation and have generously supported the community over the years.

The horns measure over six and a half feet long, from tip to tip. In today’s market, the horns would fetch around $300 but are usually auctioned for much more. The proceeds of this year’s benefit event will help bring MRI services in-house, ensuring that timely diagnostics, treatment, and life-saving work continues at Clara Barton Medical Center.

Supporting the foundation through the purchase of any auction items supports Clara Barton Medical Center as a not-for-profit organization and leads to investment back into its programs and services. The longhorn tradition will be one of the many highlights during the live auction, allowing any supporter in attendance to bid and “Take the Bull by the Horns.”

Unlike the live auction items, additional silent auction items will be available for bidding on our online platform so anyone from anywhere can participate Friday, June 17th, and Saturday, June 18th and secure some amazing, unique items. To register for the online auction, visit one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or simply text clarabarton to 243725 to receive the link.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654790060195.jpeg" alt="Debra Brockel, PA placed the winning online bid for the horns during last year’s annual benefit event. The horns will once again be auctioned off on June 18th, continuing the tradition of allowing supporters to “Take the Bull by the Horns.”" />
 <figcaption>Debra Brockel, PA placed the winning online bid for the horns during last year’s annual benefit event. The horns will once again be auctioned off on June 18th, continuing the tradition of allowing supporters to “Take the Bull by the Horns.”</figcaption>
 </figure>Over the years, many different businesses and community members have purchased a set of longhorns in support of the foundation, and it has been a tradition that each year the horns are donated back to be auctioned off the following year. The Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is excited to announce that this tradition will again continue as it has for the past three decades and - after two years of navigating COVID restrictions - it will finally be auctioned off in person during a live auction.Despite having two challenging years, the longhorn tradition has continued thanks to the valiant efforts of Clara Barton supporters. Back in 2020, only select items were auctioned off through sealed bids sent to the Foundation, and the longhorns were secured in memory of Dr. Dave McMillon. Although some normalcy gradually returned last year, the benefit auction was still forced to move entirely online through a mobile bidding platform and Debra Brockel, PA secured the horns honor.“I am thrilled that I got the chance to secure the longhorns in celebration of being a practicing provider for 30 years,” said Debra Brockel, PA. “This is the third time I’ve secured the horns honor and I think it’s a special way to display my dedication to supporting quality healthcare in our area.”Brockel has been affiliated with Clara Barton since 2006, serving as a PA in the family practice clinical setting for 16 years. Recently, she’s made the switch to primarily working in Emergency Services.“I absolutely love working in rural medicine and practicing at Clara Barton I feel at home,” said Brockel. “Having the opportunity to build a relationship with my patients and getting to know them both inside and outside of the hospital setting – seeing them at the grocery store, church, and community functions – is something I really enjoy.”Although the longhorns are currently displayed in the administrative hallway at Clara Barton Medical Center, Brockel will continue the tradition by donating the longhorns back to the Foundation to be auctioned off once again at the 29th Annual Benefit Auction.“Supporting the foundation has been important to me since day one and I admire the impact it has throughout the entire Clara Barton organization,” said Brockel. “I am proud to work somewhere that receives so much support from not only the community but internally, with departments supporting other departments as well, and I can’t wait to see who gets the horns during this year’s live auction!”The longhorn tradition began in 1991, just one year after the creation of the Foundation and the name change of the Hospital. The steer horns were first donated to the Foundation by First Kansas Bank andtheir president, Bill Lebert, of Hoisington. His wife, Kay Lebert, was a dietician at Clara Barton. The Leberts have been valued members of the Foundation and have generously supported the community over the years.The horns measure over six and a half feet long, from tip to tip. In today’s market, the horns would fetch around $300 but are usually auctioned for much more. The proceeds of this year’s benefit event will help bring MRI services in-house, ensuring that timely diagnostics, treatment, and life-saving work continues at Clara Barton Medical Center.Supporting the foundation through the purchase of any auction items supports Clara Barton Medical Center as a not-for-profit organization and leads to investment back into its programs and services. The longhorn tradition will be one of the many highlights during the live auction, allowing any supporter in attendance to bid and “Take the Bull by the Horns.”Unlike the live auction items, additional silent auction items will be available for bidding on our online platform so anyone from anywhere can participate Friday, June 17th, and Saturday, June 18th and secure some amazing, unique items. To register for the online auction, visit one.bidpal.net/clarabarton or simply text clarabarton to 243725 to receive the link.

Brockel donates longhorns back to Clara Barton Foundation

Kansas agriculture has a beauty like no other and we strive to acknowledge and appreciate it throughout the state. You can show us the true beauty of the state’s ag industry through the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s annual photo contest. KDA began accepting photo entries on June 9, and will continue accepting entries until August 22.

This year’s KDA Photo Contest categories were selected to promote different aspects of Kansas agriculture.&nbsp;Farm to Fork, Innovation in Agriculture, Four-Legged Friends,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ad Astra&nbsp;categories will showcase Kansas agriculture in many ways — the products of our labor that feed our local communities, the scientific and technological advancements that increase efficiency and value, the many animals that play a role in family-run farms and ranches, and the overall beauty of Kansas agriculture. And for the second year, a&nbsp;Video&nbsp;category will showcase drone footage, harvest videos, or other short clips of under 30 seconds. As always, there will be a separate&nbsp;Youth&nbsp;category, for young photographers under age 19. Prizes will be awarded to the top two winners in each of the six categories.

KDA serves to advocate for agriculture, the state’s largest industry and economic driver. Photos which best capture the categories will be used throughout the year as we tell the story of Kansas agriculture. After submission, KDA is granted permission to use any photograph for publications, social media, websites, displays, etc. without payment or other consideration from the photographer.

Photo entries should be sent in .jpg format to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov</a>. Videos should be sent in .mp4 or .mov format. Entries must include a title and brief description, where and when the photo/video was taken, the photographer’s full name and age, entry category, hometown and email address.

Guidelines for the KDA Photo Contest, including deadlines, categories and prizes, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDkuNTkxNDgyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9waG90b2NvbnRlc3Q_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.KcJF6vD25KCFC-0A6FuwG0yRkq9cy8zoIud6u9JHodg/s/1377890700/br/132668857200-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/photocontest</a>. Voting to select finalists will begin on KDA’s social media sites in late August. For more information, contact Heather Lansdowne, KDA director of communications, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov" target="_blank">Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6706.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617996274756.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas agriculture has a beauty like no other and we strive to acknowledge and appreciate it throughout the state. You can show us the true beauty of the state’s ag industry through the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s annual photo contest. KDA began accepting photo entries on June 9, and will continue accepting entries until August 22.This year’s KDA Photo Contest categories were selected to promote different aspects of Kansas agriculture.&nbsp;Farm to Fork, Innovation in Agriculture, Four-Legged Friends,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ad Astra&nbsp;categories will showcase Kansas agriculture in many ways — the products of our labor that feed our local communities, the scientific and technological advancements that increase efficiency and value, the many animals that play a role in family-run farms and ranches, and the overall beauty of Kansas agriculture. And for the second year, a&nbsp;Video&nbsp;category will showcase drone footage, harvest videos, or other short clips of under 30 seconds. As always, there will be a separate&nbsp;Youth&nbsp;category, for young photographers under age 19. Prizes will be awarded to the top two winners in each of the six categories.KDA serves to advocate for agriculture, the state’s largest industry and economic driver. Photos which best capture the categories will be used throughout the year as we tell the story of Kansas agriculture. After submission, KDA is granted permission to use any photograph for publications, social media, websites, displays, etc. without payment or other consideration from the photographer.Photo entries should be sent in .jpg format to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov</a>. Videos should be sent in .mp4 or .mov format. Entries must include a title and brief description, where and when the photo/video was taken, the photographer’s full name and age, entry category, hometown and email address.Guidelines for the KDA Photo Contest, including deadlines, categories and prizes, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDkuNTkxNDgyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9waG90b2NvbnRlc3Q_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.KcJF6vD25KCFC-0A6FuwG0yRkq9cy8zoIud6u9JHodg/s/1377890700/br/132668857200-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/photocontest</a>. Voting to select finalists will begin on KDA’s social media sites in late August. For more information, contact Heather Lansdowne, KDA director of communications, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov" target="_blank">Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6706.

Photo Contest accepting entries for Kansas agriculture

The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, 7 indicated further improvement of
conditions, especially for our area.&nbsp; The
part of our area that was in extreme drought improved to severe last week and
further to only moderate drought.&nbsp; There
was some improvement for the western third of the state.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (June 14 to 18) indicates
a 40 to 60 chance of above normal temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of below
normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day
outlook (June 16 to 22) indicates a 60 to 70% chance of above normal temperatures
and 33 to 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; Helpful for wheat producers wanting to get in
the field.&nbsp; So today, let’s see where we
are at regarding the progress of the 2022 wheat crop and our summer row crops.&nbsp; 

Wheat
is turning and at least, with an exception or two, moderate temperatures
allowed the wheat.to mature and maximize the yield potential that’s there.&nbsp; Some wheat was sprayed out with producers
planting summer crops.&nbsp; Some wheat was
baled or worked under.&nbsp; We will have to
wait for the combines to roll to see what is there and for protein and test
weights.&nbsp; Depending on the weather, some
wheat appears to be about ten days from harvest.&nbsp; It’s no surprise that the harvest will be
down this year.&nbsp; Overall, fields don’t
look too weedy and with all the dry weather until recently, disease pressure is
overall low.

Corn
that was is the ground is making progress and looking pretty good as some is
already approaching one foot in height.&nbsp;
All the row crops have benefitted greatly from the rains.&nbsp; The above normal temperatures will help push
corn as long as soil moisture holds out.&nbsp;
The forecast isn’t promising for rainfall.&nbsp; Realistically, all the corn should be in the
ground. 

There
are a fair number of soybean fields with beans emerging and some with their
first trifoliate leaf.&nbsp; Dryland emergence
looks good.&nbsp; They will need precipitation
during podfill come August.&nbsp; So far weed
control looks good.&nbsp; While May is a
better time for planting, we are still in the full season soybean planting
window.&nbsp; And with this moisture, coupled
with topsoil moisture, if what is harvested early enough there will likely be a
fair number of acres in double-crop soybeans.

Some
sorghum is in the ground and even emerged.&nbsp;
We still have time to put sorghum in the ground and with the price of
grain sorghum, we will likely see a fair number of acres, both full season and
double-cropped.&nbsp; It is time, however, to
go with a early to mid- medium maturity grain sorghum.

We
are behind in planting feed (Sudan grass, sorghum x Sudan grass hybrids, and
millets) in many areas but there is still adequate time for at least one good
cutting.&nbsp; Finally, these rains greatly
helped with native pastures and with those wanting to produce prairie hay.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596995818491.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, 7 indicated further improvement of
conditions, especially for our area.&nbsp; The
part of our area that was in extreme drought improved to severe last week and
further to only moderate drought.&nbsp; There
was some improvement for the western third of the state.&nbsp; The six to ten-day outlook (June 14 to 18) indicates
a 40 to 60 chance of above normal temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of below
normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day
outlook (June 16 to 22) indicates a 60 to 70% chance of above normal temperatures
and 33 to 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; Helpful for wheat producers wanting to get in
the field.&nbsp; So today, let’s see where we
are at regarding the progress of the 2022 wheat crop and our summer row crops.&nbsp; Wheat
is turning and at least, with an exception or two, moderate temperatures
allowed the wheat.to mature and maximize the yield potential that’s there.&nbsp; Some wheat was sprayed out with producers
planting summer crops.&nbsp; Some wheat was
baled or worked under.&nbsp; We will have to
wait for the combines to roll to see what is there and for protein and test
weights.&nbsp; Depending on the weather, some
wheat appears to be about ten days from harvest.&nbsp; It’s no surprise that the harvest will be
down this year.&nbsp; Overall, fields don’t
look too weedy and with all the dry weather until recently, disease pressure is
overall low.Corn
that was is the ground is making progress and looking pretty good as some is
already approaching one foot in height.&nbsp;
All the row crops have benefitted greatly from the rains.&nbsp; The above normal temperatures will help push
corn as long as soil moisture holds out.&nbsp;
The forecast isn’t promising for rainfall.&nbsp; Realistically, all the corn should be in the
ground. There
are a fair number of soybean fields with beans emerging and some with their
first trifoliate leaf.&nbsp; Dryland emergence
looks good.&nbsp; They will need precipitation
during podfill come August.&nbsp; So far weed
control looks good.&nbsp; While May is a
better time for planting, we are still in the full season soybean planting
window.&nbsp; And with this moisture, coupled
with topsoil moisture, if what is harvested early enough there will likely be a
fair number of acres in double-crop soybeans.Some
sorghum is in the ground and even emerged.&nbsp;
We still have time to put sorghum in the ground and with the price of
grain sorghum, we will likely see a fair number of acres, both full season and
double-cropped.&nbsp; It is time, however, to
go with a early to mid- medium maturity grain sorghum.We
are behind in planting feed (Sudan grass, sorghum x Sudan grass hybrids, and
millets) in many areas but there is still adequate time for at least one good
cutting.&nbsp; Finally, these rains greatly
helped with native pastures and with those wanting to produce prairie hay.

Barton Ag Instructor Vic Martin - Catching Up with Area Progress

Find out more about the grant program through the linked story below. <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/668074a0-0d20-478e-943c-f3f2a49f5851">Facade improvement grants coming to an end in Barton County</a>

Find out more about the grant program through the linked story below. <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/668074a0-0d20-478e-943c-f3f2a49f5851">Facade improvement grants coming to an end in Barton County</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654868773725.jpeg" alt="Mane Place Salon, 216 Main Street in Claflin, received improvements to its exterior with help from the facade improvement grant program through Barton County." />
 <figcaption>Mane Place Salon, 216 Main Street in Claflin, received improvements to its exterior with help from the facade improvement grant program through Barton County.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Before & After: Claflin downtown facade improvement

The finishing touches are being wrapped up at the new Community Habilitation Services (CHS) location at Sunflower Diversified Services, a non-profit agency that serves people with special needs.

Previously, CHS was housed at the former Sunflower facility, 1521 K-96. Now, thanks to a major remodeling job, its new home is at Sunflower’s main location, 8823 4th St.

“This has been a gradual process over a period of several months,” said John Lichter, Sunflower director of facilities management. “It has been well worth it because of all the benefits to everyone involved.

“For example, if a client needs to check in with Sunflower’s medical personnel, it can be done in a minute or two instead of a staff member driving to another location. Our General Public Transportation vehicles are right here too. This also saves time and fuel expenses.”

In addition, there are now two dining areas. “Lunchtime is much more comfortable for everyone,” Lichter noted. “It had been a little crowded with just one dining area.”

Sunflower’s maintenance team handled most of the work in-house.

“Randy Greathouse and Willie Ayers did a great job on this project,” Lichter said. “They deserve a lot of credit for creating an efficient and welcoming environment. It has been good for client and staff morale.”

Local subcontractors took care of the wiring, plumbing and flooring. Those involved were Mac-Clet Electrical, ComfortPro and Kern Floor Service.

The project entailed new walls, partitions and painting in more than a third of the building. The cost was approximately $40,000; First Christian Church purchased the K-96 building from Sunflower.

CHS includes physical and other therapies, cooking classes, outdoor and retirement activities, and support services.

Shelby Zuniga, Sunflower interim executive director, said “John and his crew never let us down. These guys go above and beyond on every project and this was no exception.

“The team transformed under-utilized space and turned every square foot into usable areas to support our clients. This allows more convenient service options in a fresh and newly updated space. It also allows staff to better collaborate with one another on behalf of clients.”

Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 57th year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654869548640.jpeg" alt="Willie Ayers, left, and Randy Greathouse paint a bathroom as part of a remodeling project at Sunflower Diversified Services. Community Habilitation Services moved to the main Sunflower location near the Great Bend Airport." />
 <figcaption>Willie Ayers, left, and Randy Greathouse paint a bathroom as part of a remodeling project at Sunflower Diversified Services. Community Habilitation Services moved to the main Sunflower location near the Great Bend Airport.</figcaption>
 </figure>The finishing touches are being wrapped up at the new Community Habilitation Services (CHS) location at Sunflower Diversified Services, a non-profit agency that serves people with special needs.Previously, CHS was housed at the former Sunflower facility, 1521 K-96. Now, thanks to a major remodeling job, its new home is at Sunflower’s main location, 8823 4th St.“This has been a gradual process over a period of several months,” said John Lichter, Sunflower director of facilities management. “It has been well worth it because of all the benefits to everyone involved.“For example, if a client needs to check in with Sunflower’s medical personnel, it can be done in a minute or two instead of a staff member driving to another location. Our General Public Transportation vehicles are right here too. This also saves time and fuel expenses.”In addition, there are now two dining areas. “Lunchtime is much more comfortable for everyone,” Lichter noted. “It had been a little crowded with just one dining area.”Sunflower’s maintenance team handled most of the work in-house.“Randy Greathouse and Willie Ayers did a great job on this project,” Lichter said. “They deserve a lot of credit for creating an efficient and welcoming environment. It has been good for client and staff morale.”Local subcontractors took care of the wiring, plumbing and flooring. Those involved were Mac-Clet Electrical, ComfortPro and Kern Floor Service.The project entailed new walls, partitions and painting in more than a third of the building. The cost was approximately $40,000; First Christian Church purchased the K-96 building from Sunflower.CHS includes physical and other therapies, cooking classes, outdoor and retirement activities, and support services.Shelby Zuniga, Sunflower interim executive director, said “John and his crew never let us down. These guys go above and beyond on every project and this was no exception.“The team transformed under-utilized space and turned every square foot into usable areas to support our clients. This allows more convenient service options in a fresh and newly updated space. It also allows staff to better collaborate with one another on behalf of clients.”Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 57th year.

CHS moves to new location at Sunflower Diversified Services

Finally the Kansas winds have calmed some, but cyclists in this year's Bike Across Kansas will have to endure some of that famous Kansas heat. This year's 512-mile trek across the state will include a planned overnight stop in St. John Monday evening.

"It's exciting to have a group of 600 people visit our town," said Carolyn Dunn, strategic projects manager for Stafford County Economic Development. "We only have 1,200 people in the town, so to have a group of 600 come visit is a big deal, and we're excited to have them here."

Early riders opened the 2022 BAK at the Colorado border Friday evening. The full ride kicked off Saturday with a 50-plus mile ride to Garden City. The cyclists will work their way across the lower third of the state before arriving in St. John Monday. The bikers can enjoy the community before staying the night at St. John High School.

"We'll have a handful of special things to showcase, from our museum and Gray Studio to a couple of businesses that are going to be giving tours, like 4 Star Hydroponics," Dunn said. "We're going to be providing some meals that were prepared by some local civic groups."

Following St. John, the cyclists will make the 57-mile trip to Hutchinson Tuesday. The final stop on this year's tour will be Ottawa on June 17. The bikers will face temperatures in the upper-90s Saturday, and forecasts for Sunday and Monday show highs of 100.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654886571413.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFinally the Kansas winds have calmed some, but cyclists in this year's Bike Across Kansas will have to endure some of that famous Kansas heat. This year's 512-mile trek across the state will include a planned overnight stop in St. John Monday evening."It's exciting to have a group of 600 people visit our town," said Carolyn Dunn, strategic projects manager for Stafford County Economic Development. "We only have 1,200 people in the town, so to have a group of 600 come visit is a big deal, and we're excited to have them here."Early riders opened the 2022 BAK at the Colorado border Friday evening. The full ride kicked off Saturday with a 50-plus mile ride to Garden City. The cyclists will work their way across the lower third of the state before arriving in St. John Monday. The bikers can enjoy the community before staying the night at St. John High School."We'll have a handful of special things to showcase, from our museum and Gray Studio to a couple of businesses that are going to be giving tours, like 4 Star Hydroponics," Dunn said. "We're going to be providing some meals that were prepared by some local civic groups."Following St. John, the cyclists will make the 57-mile trip to Hutchinson Tuesday. The final stop on this year's tour will be Ottawa on June 17. The bikers will face temperatures in the upper-90s Saturday, and forecasts for Sunday and Monday show highs of 100.

Bike Across Kansas pedals path toward St. John

The Great Bend City Council had their first public discussion about a
city-wide surveillance camera system and license plate readers the police
department is considering. 
Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark told the governing body at this week’s
work session the project is designed to enhance policing capabilities. 
The license plate readers, located throughout town, would allow for alerts for
stolen vehicles or vehicles driven by people suspected of being involved in
criminal activities. 
"For example, it can search for a tag, all California state tags or all white trucks," said Haulmark. "It also notices vehicles with damage. If there was an accident, you can look for vehicles with damage. If it has driven through that camera area, you'd have it." 
The plate readers could be placed in police patrol cars or as static devices
throughout the city. Haulmark said more than 10,000 vehicles travel across 10th
Street, or Highway 56, each day. Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis
said there are probably a lot of criminals that pass through the city every
day. 
"We had a recent burglary case that was resolved, in large part, due to license plate readers from other states," said Francis. "They were able to track it through license plate readers." 
The city also discussed smart cameras positioned around town that would include
face and vehicle recognition capabilities to help deter, track and solve crime. 
To get the project started, the city considered putting $50,000 towards the purchase and looking for grants and private funding. The city council was in consensus
that the surveillance had value but to prioritize other city projects at the
moment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654794040627.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend City Council had their first public discussion about a
city-wide surveillance camera system and license plate readers the police
department is considering. 
Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark told the governing body at this week’s
work session the project is designed to enhance policing capabilities. 
The license plate readers, located throughout town, would allow for alerts for
stolen vehicles or vehicles driven by people suspected of being involved in
criminal activities. 
"For example, it can search for a tag, all California state tags or all white trucks," said Haulmark. "It also notices vehicles with damage. If there was an accident, you can look for vehicles with damage. If it has driven through that camera area, you'd have it." 
The plate readers could be placed in police patrol cars or as static devices
throughout the city. Haulmark said more than 10,000 vehicles travel across 10th
Street, or Highway 56, each day. Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis
said there are probably a lot of criminals that pass through the city every
day. 
"We had a recent burglary case that was resolved, in large part, due to license plate readers from other states," said Francis. "They were able to track it through license plate readers." 
The city also discussed smart cameras positioned around town that would include
face and vehicle recognition capabilities to help deter, track and solve crime. 
To get the project started, the city considered putting $50,000 towards the purchase and looking for grants and private funding. The city council was in consensus
that the surveillance had value but to prioritize other city projects at the
moment.

Great Bend discusses city-wide surveillance cameras 

PRATT COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident early Sunday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Silverado driven by Christopher R. Denio, 37, Dodge City was northbound on NE 110th Avenue three miles north of Preston.

The driver lost control of the pickup. It left the roadway, rolled one time, and came to rest in a pasture.

EMS transported Denio to Wesley Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. The exact time of accident is still under investigation.

PRATT COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident early Sunday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Silverado driven by Christopher R. Denio, 37, Dodge City was northbound on NE 110th Avenue three miles north of Preston.The driver lost control of the pickup. It left the roadway, rolled one time, and came to rest in a pasture.EMS transported Denio to Wesley Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. The exact time of accident is still under investigation.

Kansas man injured in Pratt Co. rollover accident

RUSSELL COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Ashton C. Tabor, 20, Wichita, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Bunker Hill Road when it struck a deer.

The car crossed the median and and traveled westbound on the interstate until coming to a stop.

EMS transported Tabor to the hospital in Russell. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Ashton C. Tabor, 20, Wichita, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Bunker Hill Road when it struck a deer.The car crossed the median and and traveled westbound on the interstate until coming to a stop.EMS transported Tabor to the hospital in Russell. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after car strikes a deer

From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo...

Norbert the armadillo playing in his ball pit!

From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo...Norbert the armadillo playing in his ball pit!<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fvideos%2F3185206838370686%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

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Commissioner Barb Esfeld that aired June 9, 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 Commissioner Barb Esfeld that aired June 9, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/xnljpdz1/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;