On Wednesday, 69 people on the Wheat Quality Council’s 2024 winter wheat tour made their way from Colby to Wichita, Kansas, stopping in wheat fields along six different routes.

Wednesday’s wheat tour scouts made 216 stops at wheat fields across western, central and southern Kansas, and into northern counties in Oklahoma.

The calculated yield from all cars was 42.4 bushels per acre. Scouts were able to use the late season formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which includes counting wheat heads, number of spikelets and kernels per spikelet. The yield formula doesn’t take disease, pests or weed pressure into consideration.

Romulo Lollato said the theme of the day was variability, even within fields. Groups saw a lot of drought stress and freeze damage, with some fields already being destroyed. Not as much stripe rust or Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus were observed on Wednesday, compared to Tuesday, likely due to drought conditions.

Farmers in the area reported that combines will probably start rolling by June 1 in south central Kansas, about seven to ten days earlier than average. There wasn’t as much fungicide applied in the southern areas of Kansas because the stripe rust started coming on in a later growth stage.

“This year is a testament to the wheat breeders and researchers and the work they’ve done,” said Derek Sawyer, who farms near McPherson. “This year, everything has been stressed across the state, but we’re still looking at a decent crop.”

Dennis Schoenhals from Oklahoma Wheat Commission reported that the state’s production was estimated at 96.2 million bushels this year, up from 68.6 million bushels last year, according to USDA’s NASS. USDA/NASS estimates the Oklahoma crop will yield 37 bushels per acre, compared with 28 last year. Harvested acres are estimated at 2.6 million acres. A tour of agronomists and others in the industry estimated the production slightly lower than the NASS estimate, at 89.3 million bushels and a yield of 33 bushels per acre. He said the Oklahoma wheat crop had good moisture through the end of January, but then they had an 83 day flash drought, which took the top end of the crop. He said it has had good, cool grainfill weather.

Wheat Tour 24 continues Thursday with six routes between Wichita and Manhattan. Follow along with the tour at #wheattour24. A final production estimate will be announced Thursday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715864379375.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, 69 people on the Wheat Quality Council’s 2024 winter wheat tour made their way from Colby to Wichita, Kansas, stopping in wheat fields along six different routes.Wednesday’s wheat tour scouts made 216 stops at wheat fields across western, central and southern Kansas, and into northern counties in Oklahoma.The calculated yield from all cars was 42.4 bushels per acre. Scouts were able to use the late season formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which includes counting wheat heads, number of spikelets and kernels per spikelet. The yield formula doesn’t take disease, pests or weed pressure into consideration.Romulo Lollato said the theme of the day was variability, even within fields. Groups saw a lot of drought stress and freeze damage, with some fields already being destroyed. Not as much stripe rust or Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus were observed on Wednesday, compared to Tuesday, likely due to drought conditions.Farmers in the area reported that combines will probably start rolling by June 1 in south central Kansas, about seven to ten days earlier than average. There wasn’t as much fungicide applied in the southern areas of Kansas because the stripe rust started coming on in a later growth stage.“This year is a testament to the wheat breeders and researchers and the work they’ve done,” said Derek Sawyer, who farms near McPherson. “This year, everything has been stressed across the state, but we’re still looking at a decent crop.”Dennis Schoenhals from Oklahoma Wheat Commission reported that the state’s production was estimated at 96.2 million bushels this year, up from 68.6 million bushels last year, according to USDA’s NASS. USDA/NASS estimates the Oklahoma crop will yield 37 bushels per acre, compared with 28 last year. Harvested acres are estimated at 2.6 million acres. A tour of agronomists and others in the industry estimated the production slightly lower than the NASS estimate, at 89.3 million bushels and a yield of 33 bushels per acre. He said the Oklahoma wheat crop had good moisture through the end of January, but then they had an 83 day flash drought, which took the top end of the crop. He said it has had good, cool grainfill weather.Wheat Tour 24 continues Thursday with six routes between Wichita and Manhattan. Follow along with the tour at #wheattour24. A final production estimate will be announced Thursday afternoon.

Kansas Wheat Tour 2024, Day 2

Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 and Barton County Special Services (BCSS) are pleased to announce their upcoming relocation to 1809 24th Street in Great Bend, Kansas. The move is scheduled to commence on May 20, 2024, with offices opening at the new location on Monday, June 3, 2024.

During this transition, the public is advised to call ahead before visiting either location. The District Education Center can be reached at 620-793-1500, and Barton County Special Services can be reached at 620-793-1550. Buildings impacted include USD 428 District Education Center at 201 S Patton Rd, Washington Education Center at 2535 Lakin Ave.

· May 20 – June 3: Moving dates for Administrative Offices/Staff

· May 24: Anticipated Phone &amp; Internet Disruption

· June 3: USD 428 District Education Center &amp; Barton County Special Services open at 1809 24th St.

“We ask for the community’s patience as we move to the new location,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 Superintendent. “The new building is worth the wait in many ways - consolidating our offices with BCSS under one roof will be a great convenience to our families and staff, as well as provide a facility that supports the operations of our district from payroll, IT, and curriculum, to school psychologists, social workers, special education, and more. ”

Additionally, preparations for the Fall 2024 opening of Little Panthers Preschool, to be housed at the same location, will continue throughout the summer. A community Open House, Ribbon Cutting, and tours are scheduled for 4-6 pm on August 1 to celebrate the completion of this project.

Beginning May 20, the District Education Center will operate on summer hours, Monday – Thursday, 7 am – 4 pm, and Friday, 7 am – 12 pm.

For more information about Great Bend Public Schools and the relocation, please contact the District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715793479697.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 and Barton County Special Services (BCSS) are pleased to announce their upcoming relocation to 1809 24th Street in Great Bend, Kansas. The move is scheduled to commence on May 20, 2024, with offices opening at the new location on Monday, June 3, 2024.During this transition, the public is advised to call ahead before visiting either location. The District Education Center can be reached at 620-793-1500, and Barton County Special Services can be reached at 620-793-1550. Buildings impacted include USD 428 District Education Center at 201 S Patton Rd, Washington Education Center at 2535 Lakin Ave.Key Dates:· May 20 – June 3: Moving dates for Administrative Offices/Staff· May 24: Anticipated Phone &amp; Internet Disruption· June 3: USD 428 District Education Center &amp; Barton County Special Services open at 1809 24th St.“We ask for the community’s patience as we move to the new location,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 Superintendent. “The new building is worth the wait in many ways - consolidating our offices with BCSS under one roof will be a great convenience to our families and staff, as well as provide a facility that supports the operations of our district from payroll, IT, and curriculum, to school psychologists, social workers, special education, and more. ”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715793513041.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, preparations for the Fall 2024 opening of Little Panthers Preschool, to be housed at the same location, will continue throughout the summer. A community Open House, Ribbon Cutting, and tours are scheduled for 4-6 pm on August 1 to celebrate the completion of this project.Beginning May 20, the District Education Center will operate on summer hours, Monday – Thursday, 7 am – 4 pm, and Friday, 7 am – 12 pm.For more information about Great Bend Public Schools and the relocation, please contact the District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

Great Bend USD 428 administrative offices scheduled to move

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Thursday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Peterbilt&nbsp;semi pulling a tanker trailer and driven by&nbsp;Liibbe, Lyle G&nbsp;Liibbe, 64, Plainview, Nebraska, was westbound on U.S. 54 highway one half mile west of 120th Avenue.

 Roadwork is occurring in this area of highway. The right front tire of the semi left the road. The vehicle traveled into a ditch and overturned.

EMS transported&nbsp;Liibbe to Pratt Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Thursday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Peterbilt&nbsp;semi pulling a tanker trailer and driven by&nbsp;Liibbe, Lyle G&nbsp;Liibbe, 64, Plainview, Nebraska, was westbound on U.S. 54 highway one half mile west of 120th Avenue. Roadwork is occurring in this area of highway. The right front tire of the semi left the road. The vehicle traveled into a ditch and overturned.EMS transported&nbsp;Liibbe to Pratt Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns in Pratt County

Every year, the Labor Day Celebration in Hoisington begins at the end of August or the beginning of September, and Barton County gets excited for the weekend-long event. Hoisington's Labor Day Celebration began in 1896 with its first parade. Since it was established in 1957, the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce has hosted the celebration each summer. Chamber Director Karen Baldyga said go-cart races will be a new activity at this year's celebration on Saturday, Aug. 31.

"Jason Dody is one of our board directors, and he's the one who suggested it because he is involved with that with his kids, and also himself," Baldyga said. "He came up with the idea and we thought, 'Why not?'"

The new event will take place on Saturday afternoon at Bicentennial Park in the same location as the Demolition Derby. Parking, admission, and concessions will all be in the same locations as the derby. Dody, of Carquest, has been working hard with a group of volunteers to make the new activity a possibility.

Dody said the Go Cart Races will be part of the Hoosier Predator Series that brings racers from all over Kansas and the mid-west. Jason and his group of volunteers are having meetings and will come up with a name for this particular event, along with the logistics, rules, and policies over the next month or so. Baldyga said several other changes are in the works for this year's celebration.

"We're not really changing everything," said Baldyga. "We're maybe combining some things and we're putting things in different locations to make it easier. I'm going to try making those announcements every couple of weeks to let people know what's happening, where it's going to be, what's new, and what's changed."

Check out the Chamber’s Facebook pages and website for updates to other Labor Day Celebration events. 2024 will mark the 128th Hoisington Labor Day Celebration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715874422979.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Every year, the Labor Day Celebration in Hoisington begins at the end of August or the beginning of September, and Barton County gets excited for the weekend-long event. Hoisington's Labor Day Celebration began in 1896 with its first parade. Since it was established in 1957, the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce has hosted the celebration each summer. Chamber Director Karen Baldyga said go-cart races will be a new activity at this year's celebration on Saturday, Aug. 31."Jason Dody is one of our board directors, and he's the one who suggested it because he is involved with that with his kids, and also himself," Baldyga said. "He came up with the idea and we thought, 'Why not?'"The new event will take place on Saturday afternoon at Bicentennial Park in the same location as the Demolition Derby. Parking, admission, and concessions will all be in the same locations as the derby. Dody, of Carquest, has been working hard with a group of volunteers to make the new activity a possibility.Dody said the Go Cart Races will be part of the Hoosier Predator Series that brings racers from all over Kansas and the mid-west. Jason and his group of volunteers are having meetings and will come up with a name for this particular event, along with the logistics, rules, and policies over the next month or so. Baldyga said several other changes are in the works for this year's celebration."We're not really changing everything," said Baldyga. "We're maybe combining some things and we're putting things in different locations to make it easier. I'm going to try making those announcements every couple of weeks to let people know what's happening, where it's going to be, what's new, and what's changed."Check out the Chamber’s Facebook pages and website for updates to other Labor Day Celebration events. 2024 will mark the 128th Hoisington Labor Day Celebration.

Go Cart races coming to annual Hoisington Labor Day Celebration

The Barton County Sheriff’s office is seeking information in reference to multiple cases of vandalism on NE 30 Road, in the Bissell’s Point subdivision.

At about 1 a.m. on May 9, 2024, unknown persons damaged approximately 15 mailboxes in that area. The Sheriff’s Office believes individuals were on foot and were in the area for an extended period of time. The damage is estimated to be greater than $2,000.

If you have information about this crime or any other crime, please call Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or 888-305-1300, remember we don’t want your name, just your information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715875883517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Sheriff’s office is seeking information in reference to multiple cases of vandalism on NE 30 Road, in the Bissell’s Point subdivision.At about 1 a.m. on May 9, 2024, unknown persons damaged approximately 15 mailboxes in that area. The Sheriff’s Office believes individuals were on foot and were in the area for an extended period of time. The damage is estimated to be greater than $2,000.If you have information about this crime or any other crime, please call Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or 888-305-1300, remember we don’t want your name, just your information.

Mailbox vandalism in Bissell's Point in Barton Co.

Great Bend city crews will be working on cleaning the storm sewers the length of 10th&nbsp;Street and the length of Main Street starting May 17. Crews will be out in the early morning hours, approximately 6 a.m., to begin cleaning the lines along these busy streets. 

Crews will only work in these areas until 8 a.m. each morning to minimize any disruptions to traffic and will move to other areas of town as traffic picks up. Expect work to approximately last the summer.

Please be careful and attentive when driving in these areas, especially as these will be early morning hours. Crews will have signage and an arrow board for advanced warning. The city apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jenna Pitchford, Utilities Supervisor, (620)793-4170 or jpitchford@greatbendks.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609882599316.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend city crews will be working on cleaning the storm sewers the length of 10th&nbsp;Street and the length of Main Street starting May 17. Crews will be out in the early morning hours, approximately 6 a.m., to begin cleaning the lines along these busy streets. Crews will only work in these areas until 8 a.m. each morning to minimize any disruptions to traffic and will move to other areas of town as traffic picks up. Expect work to approximately last the summer.Please be careful and attentive when driving in these areas, especially as these will be early morning hours. Crews will have signage and an arrow board for advanced warning. The city apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jenna Pitchford, Utilities Supervisor, (620)793-4170 or jpitchford@greatbendks.net.

Great Bend to clean storm sewers along 10th and Main streets

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

One of the final decisions the Barton County Commission made in its stay at the former JC Penny building in Great Bend was a fun one. Six Barton County Youth Crew members attended the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA) Youth Conference near Dallas last year. Tuesday morning, Juvenile Services Prevention Advocate Tyler Morton sought approval to take eight members to this year's conference in Chicago on July 15-18.

"Ironically enough, our kids actually had a table with kids from Chicago last year during their sessions," he said. "They came back and said, 'Wow, we thought our problems were pretty big. These kids were talking about gun violence and maybe not making it out of school. Here we are talking about issues with marijuana.' Prevention is wide-scale. It doesn't just have to be drugs, alcohol, or vaping."

Leftover money from the Drug-Free Communities Grant allowed for more members of Youth Crew to travel this year. For many, it will be their first big trip beyond state lines. Eight of the 10 Youth Crew members who applied for the trip were selected based on a series of qualifiers.

"We talk about their attendance throughout the year," Morton said. "We talk about their leadership qualities, how many events they participated in, how many volunteer hours they put into the community outside of us."

Approximately 2,500 people attended last year's conference in Grapevine, Texas, including 500 youth. Ryan Leaf, the No. 2 NFL Draft pick behind Peyton Manning, was the keynote speaker last year. Leaf's football career was cut short, in part, due to his own struggles with addiction.

Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee said the national conferences give area youth the opportunity to hear from experts and professionals from around the world and bring that information back to their own communities. It also allows them to network. Barton County Youth Crew will host the statewide Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLINK) conference at Hoisington High School on June 12. A vape exhibit will be part of an open house at the school on June 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713892852010.jpeg" alt="Barton County Youth Crew members at a recent Lei Off Tobacco event at Great Bend High School." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Youth Crew members at a recent Lei Off Tobacco event at Great Bend High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOne of the final decisions the Barton County Commission made in its stay at the former JC Penny building in Great Bend was a fun one. Six Barton County Youth Crew members attended the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA) Youth Conference near Dallas last year. Tuesday morning, Juvenile Services Prevention Advocate Tyler Morton sought approval to take eight members to this year's conference in Chicago on July 15-18."Ironically enough, our kids actually had a table with kids from Chicago last year during their sessions," he said. "They came back and said, 'Wow, we thought our problems were pretty big. These kids were talking about gun violence and maybe not making it out of school. Here we are talking about issues with marijuana.' Prevention is wide-scale. It doesn't just have to be drugs, alcohol, or vaping."Leftover money from the Drug-Free Communities Grant allowed for more members of Youth Crew to travel this year. For many, it will be their first big trip beyond state lines. Eight of the 10 Youth Crew members who applied for the trip were selected based on a series of qualifiers."We talk about their attendance throughout the year," Morton said. "We talk about their leadership qualities, how many events they participated in, how many volunteer hours they put into the community outside of us."Approximately 2,500 people attended last year's conference in Grapevine, Texas, including 500 youth. Ryan Leaf, the No. 2 NFL Draft pick behind Peyton Manning, was the keynote speaker last year. Leaf's football career was cut short, in part, due to his own struggles with addiction.Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee said the national conferences give area youth the opportunity to hear from experts and professionals from around the world and bring that information back to their own communities. It also allows them to network. Barton County Youth Crew will host the statewide Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLINK) conference at Hoisington High School on June 12. A vape exhibit will be part of an open house at the school on June 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Barton Commission approves Youth Crew trip to Chicago

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/15)

At 8 a.m. utility problems were reported at Broadway &amp;
McKinley.

At 9:10 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 160
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.

At 11:24 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 160
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 highway in Ellinwood.

At 1:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 285 SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood.

At 2:57 p.m. hemorrhage/lacerations were reported at 600 N.
Schiller Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 6:37 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1408
Kansas Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/15)

At 12:04 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Macarthur Road.

At 12:47 a.m. Jessica Williams was arrested for aggravated
assault, battery DV, battery and criminal damage to property at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

At 2:23 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2215 18th
Street.

At 7:42 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 1309 Warner
Road.

At 7:58 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 2027 Morton
Street.

At 8:20 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 2401
Jefferson.

At 9:46 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2300 32nd
Pl.

At 11:52 a.m. an animal in a vehicle was reported at 4705 10th
Street.

At 4:06 p.m. a hit-and-run case was reported at 1811 Main
Street.

At 4:49 p.m. a semi not maintaining lanes was reported at
2900 Main Street in Pawnee Rock.

At 6:15 p.m. traffic enforcement handled at 2027 Morton
Street.

At 8:18 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2111 16th
Street.

At 8:28 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2720 18th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/15)Utility ProblemsAt 8 a.m. utility problems were reported at Broadway &amp;
McKinley.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 9:10 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 160
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.At 11:24 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 160
Avenue &amp; E. US 56 highway in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 1:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 285 SE 100 Avenue
in Ellinwood.Hemorrhage / LacerationsAt 2:57 p.m. hemorrhage/lacerations were reported at 600 N.
Schiller Avenue in Ellinwood.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 6:37 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1408
Kansas Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/15)Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 12:04 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Macarthur Road.DomesticAt 12:47 a.m. Jessica Williams was arrested for aggravated
assault, battery DV, battery and criminal damage to property at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.Ambulance AssistanceAt 2:23 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2215 18th
Street.Criminal DamageAt 7:42 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 1309 Warner
Road.Noise ComplaintAt 7:58 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 2027 Morton
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 8:20 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 2401
Jefferson.Chest PainAt 9:46 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2300 32nd
Pl.Animal ComplaintAt 11:52 a.m. an animal in a vehicle was reported at 4705 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:06 p.m. a hit-and-run case was reported at 1811 Main
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:49 p.m. a semi not maintaining lanes was reported at
2900 Main Street in Pawnee Rock.Parking ComplaintAt 6:15 p.m. traffic enforcement handled at 2027 Morton
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:18 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2111 16th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:28 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2720 18th
Street.

Cop Shop (5/15)

5/15 BOOKED: Jessica Williams on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault Domestic Battery, Battery, and Criminal Damage, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Shawn Messick on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution and No Drug Tax Stamp, on $100,000 OR bond and must report and reside at an Oxford House.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>5/15 BOOKED: Jessica Williams on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault Domestic Battery, Battery, and Criminal Damage, bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Shawn Messick on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution and No Drug Tax Stamp, on $100,000 OR bond and must report and reside at an Oxford House.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/15)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

With a new commissioner for the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC)
this year, the Great Bend Recreation Commission adjusted to new direction for
operating the 2024 KCAC Baseball and Softball Championships this spring. 

The conference
tournaments concluded the first weekend in May at the Great Bend Sports
Complex, and Rec Director Chris Umphres said the event ran smoothly despite
rain delays.


"I don't know how many people from the community come out and watch," said Umphres. "It's more attended by the colleges obviously. We do a community night. The school is good about sharing the facility that week."

In a joint effort with the City of Great Bend, the Recreation Commission has
hosted the KCAC tournaments for the past 11 years. Now the Rec will focus on
the high school Class 2-1A State Baseball tournament next week.


"When you come from KCAC with three fields to KSHSAA with one field, it's a pretty easy tournament to run," said Umphres. "Hopefully our local teams will be playing somewhere for state. There shouldn't be an issue with sharing the complex with the school district."

The State Baseball Championship will take place May 23-24 with a total of eight games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715699642781.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWith a new commissioner for the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC)
this year, the Great Bend Recreation Commission adjusted to new direction for
operating the 2024 KCAC Baseball and Softball Championships this spring. The conference
tournaments concluded the first weekend in May at the Great Bend Sports
Complex, and Rec Director Chris Umphres said the event ran smoothly despite
rain delays.
"I don't know how many people from the community come out and watch," said Umphres. "It's more attended by the colleges obviously. We do a community night. The school is good about sharing the facility that week."In a joint effort with the City of Great Bend, the Recreation Commission has
hosted the KCAC tournaments for the past 11 years. Now the Rec will focus on
the high school Class 2-1A State Baseball tournament next week.
"When you come from KCAC with three fields to KSHSAA with one field, it's a pretty easy tournament to run," said Umphres. "Hopefully our local teams will be playing somewhere for state. There shouldn't be an issue with sharing the complex with the school district."The State Baseball Championship will take place May 23-24 with a total of eight games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rec pushing through tournament season

Twenty-five elementary students, and one preschool student, earned a set of wheels this week, achieving perfect attendance for the 2023-2024 school year. The Perfect Attendance Bike Program has awarded bikes for over 13 years to encourage students to attend school every day in Great Bend USD 428 elementary schools. Assemblies were held at all 5 elementary buildings to celebrate the students’ accomplishments with their peers, teachers, and families.

“Congratulations to the students who have stepped up to the challenges of grade school and have completed another successful school year,” said Karen Shaner, program organizer. “We would like to thank all the students for their hard work and dedication during the school year. We also want to thank those who make it possible for the students to be on time each day and not miss a day of learning.”

The effort is led by Karen Shaner and Jane Isern, and is supported by a lengthy list of community donors. Walmart has been a consistent partner in the effort, providing assembly and storage for bikes in addition to financially supporting the program through product discounts and store credit.

“This is an amazing program that honors the commitment of our students,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 Superintendent. “We greatly appreciate the dedication of our students and families to accomplish perfect attendance - it takes a lot of work by students, parents, grandparents, and caregivers! We are fortunate to have such a great program and generous community sponsors to celebrate this notable accomplishment.”

Every student who achieved perfect attendance this year was awarded a bike. In addition, the Pilot Club of Great Bend provided a new fitted bike helmet to further their organization’s efforts to support brain safety and health.

· Eisenhower Elementary – Two students qualified for perfect attendance.

· Jefferson Elementary - Twelve students qualified for perfect attendance.

· Park Elementary – Eight students qualified for perfect attendance.

· Lincoln Elementary - Two students qualified for perfect attendance.

· Riley Elementary - One student qualified for perfect attendance.

· Little Panthers Preschool – One student qualified for perfect attendance.

2024 Bike Donors · Walmart - Great Bend · Bauer, Pike, Bauer, Wary, Carroll, &amp; Gunn LLC · Jim Cavanaugh Donor Advised Endowment Fund · Isern Carpenter · Doris Spray · Eldridge Fencing · Perry &amp; Krista Smith · Tom Vernon · Sheryl Cheely · American Plains Coop · Marmie Auto Group · Damon &amp; Donna Schloemer · Farmers Bank &amp; Trust · Jerry Ney · First Kansas Bank · Craig &amp; Kari Smith · Jeffrey &amp; Rhonda Brozek · Larry &amp; Anne Kutina · Francis Financial Services, Inc. · Watkins Calcara, Chtd. · OPI · Gerald &amp; Glenna Achatz · KanEquip, Inc. · Dale &amp; Karen Shaner · Darwin &amp; Maritta Schloemer · Michel &amp; Linda Ringwald · Mark &amp; Leslie Mingenback · Club 1 Fitness · Stueder Contractors · Gregg &amp; Margaret Reinhardt

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782518846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Twenty-five elementary students, and one preschool student, earned a set of wheels this week, achieving perfect attendance for the 2023-2024 school year. The Perfect Attendance Bike Program has awarded bikes for over 13 years to encourage students to attend school every day in Great Bend USD 428 elementary schools. Assemblies were held at all 5 elementary buildings to celebrate the students’ accomplishments with their peers, teachers, and families.“Congratulations to the students who have stepped up to the challenges of grade school and have completed another successful school year,” said Karen Shaner, program organizer. “We would like to thank all the students for their hard work and dedication during the school year. We also want to thank those who make it possible for the students to be on time each day and not miss a day of learning.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782659406.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The effort is led by Karen Shaner and Jane Isern, and is supported by a lengthy list of community donors. Walmart has been a consistent partner in the effort, providing assembly and storage for bikes in addition to financially supporting the program through product discounts and store credit.“This is an amazing program that honors the commitment of our students,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 Superintendent. “We greatly appreciate the dedication of our students and families to accomplish perfect attendance - it takes a lot of work by students, parents, grandparents, and caregivers! We are fortunate to have such a great program and generous community sponsors to celebrate this notable accomplishment.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782676228.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Every student who achieved perfect attendance this year was awarded a bike. In addition, the Pilot Club of Great Bend provided a new fitted bike helmet to further their organization’s efforts to support brain safety and health.· Eisenhower Elementary – Two students qualified for perfect attendance.· Jefferson Elementary - Twelve students qualified for perfect attendance.· Park Elementary – Eight students qualified for perfect attendance.· Lincoln Elementary - Two students qualified for perfect attendance.· Riley Elementary - One student qualified for perfect attendance.· Little Panthers Preschool – One student qualified for perfect attendance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782692741.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>2024 Bike Donors · Walmart - Great Bend · Bauer, Pike, Bauer, Wary, Carroll, &amp; Gunn LLC · Jim Cavanaugh Donor Advised Endowment Fund · Isern Carpenter · Doris Spray · Eldridge Fencing · Perry &amp; Krista Smith · Tom Vernon · Sheryl Cheely · American Plains Coop · Marmie Auto Group · Damon &amp; Donna Schloemer · Farmers Bank &amp; Trust · Jerry Ney · First Kansas Bank · Craig &amp; Kari Smith · Jeffrey &amp; Rhonda Brozek · Larry &amp; Anne Kutina · Francis Financial Services, Inc. · Watkins Calcara, Chtd. · OPI · Gerald &amp; Glenna Achatz · KanEquip, Inc. · Dale &amp; Karen Shaner · Darwin &amp; Maritta Schloemer · Michel &amp; Linda Ringwald · Mark &amp; Leslie Mingenback · Club 1 Fitness · Stueder Contractors · Gregg &amp; Margaret Reinhardt<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782709692.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715782726108.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend students awarded bikes for perfect attendance

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 77. North-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 52. East wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 83. Light and variable wind becoming south-southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 57. South-southeast wind around 10 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. South-southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.

Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

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

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 77. North-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 52. East wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.Friday Sunny, with a high near 83. Light and variable wind becoming south-southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 57. South-southeast wind around 10 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 86. South-southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

From Great Bend Economic Development...

The IGNITE Rural Business Competition, organized by Great Bend Economic Development, continues to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Barton County, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive and innovate. Designed to empower emerging ventures, IGNITE has been a catalyst for transformation, exemplified by the recent success of 10-39 Cafe in Ellinwood. Through the competition, 10-39 Cafe's owners honed their business plan, received mentorship, and navigated through rounds of eliminations to reach the live finals of the 2023 event. Their hard work paid off as they clinched 2nd place, earning a $30,000 grant, and secured the People's Choice award, adding an extra $5,000 to their prize money.

To celebrate this success, IGNITE the Night with 10-39 Cafe will take place on this Friday, May 17th between 5-8 pm at 10-39 Cafe, 104 W 1st in Ellinwood. This event celebrates 10-39 Cafe's journey to success, and the community is invited to join the celebration.

Attendees can expect an evening filled with camaraderie, celebration, and inspiration. Complimentary appetizers, entries for door prizes, and drink tickets will be provided, offering a taste of the atmosphere at 10-39 Cafe. 10-39 Cafe’s full menu is also available to purchase food that evening as well.

To learn more about IGNITE and to relive the excitement of the 2023 Grand Finale, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igniteks.com/" target="_blank">www.igniteks.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715783418711.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend Economic Development...The IGNITE Rural Business Competition, organized by Great Bend Economic Development, continues to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Barton County, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive and innovate. Designed to empower emerging ventures, IGNITE has been a catalyst for transformation, exemplified by the recent success of 10-39 Cafe in Ellinwood. Through the competition, 10-39 Cafe's owners honed their business plan, received mentorship, and navigated through rounds of eliminations to reach the live finals of the 2023 event. Their hard work paid off as they clinched 2nd place, earning a $30,000 grant, and secured the People's Choice award, adding an extra $5,000 to their prize money.To celebrate this success, IGNITE the Night with 10-39 Cafe will take place on this Friday, May 17th between 5-8 pm at 10-39 Cafe, 104 W 1st in Ellinwood. This event celebrates 10-39 Cafe's journey to success, and the community is invited to join the celebration.Attendees can expect an evening filled with camaraderie, celebration, and inspiration. Complimentary appetizers, entries for door prizes, and drink tickets will be provided, offering a taste of the atmosphere at 10-39 Cafe. 10-39 Cafe’s full menu is also available to purchase food that evening as well.To learn more about IGNITE and to relive the excitement of the 2023 Grand Finale, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igniteks.com/" target="_blank">www.igniteks.com</a>.

IGNITE the Night in Ellinwood on Friday

Donald Trump, O.J. Simpson, Martha Stewart. The highest-profile alleged offenders draw the biggest headlines. That can make selecting an unbiased jury for criminal cases against celebrities a difficult game for prosecutors. Fortunately, there is a process to weed out bias before the trial begins. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris said it's generally not difficult to find impartial jurors for local cases.

"It's usually not hard at all," he said Thursday on KVGB 1590/95.5 FM's "County Edition" program. "Take the headlines right now: pretty impossible to find a jury who might not have strong opinions about prosecuting a former president. That's tough. Prosecuting some guy nobody knows who got caught with a couple pounds of methamphetamine, and no one really knows him, it's not going to be hard."

Because jurors are summoned randomly, they may know key parties of the case or have strong opinions about the case. Prosecutors and defense attorneys get to ask jurors questions to determine who is best fit to make an impartial decision based on the evidence. After the verdict, the attorneys may ask the jurors how the trial went.

"Every time, for the most part, I've lost a jury trial - just me personally, not the office - they've always said, 'No, we think they did it. We just respect the burden of proof,'" Morris said. "There's never been a jury where we thought we had a bias problem."

While many dread receiving a jury summons in the mail, Morris said jurors usually enjoy fulfilling their civic duty.

"When you are done, my experience is you will feel differently," he said. "Everybody I've ever talked to said having served on a jury was a very rewarding experience. Even though they walked into it with a little bit of negativity, everybody walked out of it positively. Everybody, from my experience, has always taken it very seriously. As you listen to the evidence that's specific to the case, it just becomes crystal clear to everybody how we need that participation and we need everybody to take it seriously. Regardless of how they end up ruling on that case, we have to have people doing it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561032847131.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostDonald Trump, O.J. Simpson, Martha Stewart. The highest-profile alleged offenders draw the biggest headlines. That can make selecting an unbiased jury for criminal cases against celebrities a difficult game for prosecutors. Fortunately, there is a process to weed out bias before the trial begins. Barton County Attorney Levi Morris said it's generally not difficult to find impartial jurors for local cases."It's usually not hard at all," he said Thursday on KVGB 1590/95.5 FM's "County Edition" program. "Take the headlines right now: pretty impossible to find a jury who might not have strong opinions about prosecuting a former president. That's tough. Prosecuting some guy nobody knows who got caught with a couple pounds of methamphetamine, and no one really knows him, it's not going to be hard."Because jurors are summoned randomly, they may know key parties of the case or have strong opinions about the case. Prosecutors and defense attorneys get to ask jurors questions to determine who is best fit to make an impartial decision based on the evidence. After the verdict, the attorneys may ask the jurors how the trial went."Every time, for the most part, I've lost a jury trial - just me personally, not the office - they've always said, 'No, we think they did it. We just respect the burden of proof,'" Morris said. "There's never been a jury where we thought we had a bias problem."While many dread receiving a jury summons in the mail, Morris said jurors usually enjoy fulfilling their civic duty."When you are done, my experience is you will feel differently," he said. "Everybody I've ever talked to said having served on a jury was a very rewarding experience. Even though they walked into it with a little bit of negativity, everybody walked out of it positively. Everybody, from my experience, has always taken it very seriously. As you listen to the evidence that's specific to the case, it just becomes crystal clear to everybody how we need that participation and we need everybody to take it seriously. Regardless of how they end up ruling on that case, we have to have people doing it."

Barton Co. Attorney: Jury duty is often a rewarding experience

Participants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.

About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.

About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.

Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.

Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.

Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.

For the week ending May 12, 2024, Kansas winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 22% poor, 34% fair, 28% good and 3% excellent. Kansas winter wheat jointed was 97%, ahead of 84% last year and 89% for the five-year average. Headed was 73%, well ahead of 48% last year and 43% average. Coloring was 1%.

In addition to Kansas reports, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado met the group in Colby to give reports from their states.

Royce Schaneman from Nebraska Wheat Board reported that USDA estimates the Nebraska crop at 40.8 million bushels, which is up from 36.96 million bushels last year. Yield is estimated at 48 bushels per acre.

A report from Colorado estimated the crop at 72 million bushels, based on a yield of 44 bushels per acre and 2.1 million acres planted. This is lower than the May 1 USDA estimate of 81.4 million bushels, based on slightly higher abandonment. Last year’s production was 74.62 million bushels.

These estimates are for this year’s hard winter wheat crop during this current snapshot in time.

Wheat Tour 24 continues Wednesday with six routes between Colby and Wichita, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715792354712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Participants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.For the week ending May 12, 2024, Kansas winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 22% poor, 34% fair, 28% good and 3% excellent. Kansas winter wheat jointed was 97%, ahead of 84% last year and 89% for the five-year average. Headed was 73%, well ahead of 48% last year and 43% average. Coloring was 1%.In addition to Kansas reports, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado met the group in Colby to give reports from their states.Royce Schaneman from Nebraska Wheat Board reported that USDA estimates the Nebraska crop at 40.8 million bushels, which is up from 36.96 million bushels last year. Yield is estimated at 48 bushels per acre.A report from Colorado estimated the crop at 72 million bushels, based on a yield of 44 bushels per acre and 2.1 million acres planted. This is lower than the May 1 USDA estimate of 81.4 million bushels, based on slightly higher abandonment. Last year’s production was 74.62 million bushels.These estimates are for this year’s hard winter wheat crop during this current snapshot in time.Wheat Tour 24 continues Wednesday with six routes between Colby and Wichita, Kansas.

Kansas Wheat Tour 2024, Day 1

A new R.I.S.E. program in USD 428 was presented as a first-read item on Monday's board of education agenda with no vote expected. The board was so impressed with the idea behind the program that a vote was held and the program was approved. Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley explained how the Resilience, Inspire, Self-Empowerment program works.

"The R.I.S.E. program focuses on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being," she said. "It is an alternative to out-of-school suspension (OSS). Focusing primarily on elementary schools, we have had a number of students who have received OSS due to behaviors. This keeps them in school although in an alternative setting. It keeps them working on their work, and it keeps them progressing. It also focuses on some social-emotional as well."

The district will work with Educational Services and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas (ESSDACK) to set up the tiered program. Level one is a "bare-bones" setting to incentivize the student to progress through the levels. Levels two through four will provide more access to items. Once students reach level four, staff will work toward reintegration back into the classroom. The program will initially be used only at Park Elementary School, and Principal Kelsey Sciacca explained how integration works.

"If a student was coming back on Monday - let's say they had been at this program for a week - we would meet on Friday with the team from our school," she said. "That would be our student-family advocate, their assistant, myself, and their classroom teacher because that classroom teacher is key to helping them integrate. We want them to understand what they've gone through and learned in levels one, two, three, and four."

The board of education approved the project at a one-time cost of $13,600, which includes the framework for the program, curriculum, and training. The program will be housed at the old Washington Elementary building. Additional costs could be incurred if the program is added at other schools and on-site training is required.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715702014780.jpeg" alt="Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E. at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E. at Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA new R.I.S.E. program in USD 428 was presented as a first-read item on Monday's board of education agenda with no vote expected. The board was so impressed with the idea behind the program that a vote was held and the program was approved. Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley explained how the Resilience, Inspire, Self-Empowerment program works."The R.I.S.E. program focuses on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being," she said. "It is an alternative to out-of-school suspension (OSS). Focusing primarily on elementary schools, we have had a number of students who have received OSS due to behaviors. This keeps them in school although in an alternative setting. It keeps them working on their work, and it keeps them progressing. It also focuses on some social-emotional as well."The district will work with Educational Services and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas (ESSDACK) to set up the tiered program. Level one is a "bare-bones" setting to incentivize the student to progress through the levels. Levels two through four will provide more access to items. Once students reach level four, staff will work toward reintegration back into the classroom. The program will initially be used only at Park Elementary School, and Principal Kelsey Sciacca explained how integration works."If a student was coming back on Monday - let's say they had been at this program for a week - we would meet on Friday with the team from our school," she said. "That would be our student-family advocate, their assistant, myself, and their classroom teacher because that classroom teacher is key to helping them integrate. We want them to understand what they've gone through and learned in levels one, two, three, and four."The board of education approved the project at a one-time cost of $13,600, which includes the framework for the program, curriculum, and training. The program will be housed at the old Washington Elementary building. Additional costs could be incurred if the program is added at other schools and on-site training is required.

USD 428 board approves new R.I.S.E. program at Park Elementary 

Venture Corporation plans to begin work on the NE 30
Road asphalt resurfacing project on Friday, May 17.&nbsp;The project extends from US-281 highway
east to NE 30 Avenue.&nbsp;The project involves the placement of a hot mix
asphalt overlay followed by rock edge wedges and pavement striping.&nbsp;Work
is expected to be completed in about two weeks.&nbsp; 


Traffic will be guided through the construction zone with the use of flaggers
and a pilot car during the day, and there may be delays of up to 15 minutes in
the work zone.&nbsp; 


Motorists are asked to slow down and be alert to the construction workers and
equipment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707264520862.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Barton County...Venture Corporation plans to begin work on the NE 30
Road asphalt resurfacing project on Friday, May 17.&nbsp;The project extends from US-281 highway
east to NE 30 Avenue.&nbsp;The project involves the placement of a hot mix
asphalt overlay followed by rock edge wedges and pavement striping.&nbsp;Work
is expected to be completed in about two weeks.&nbsp; 
Traffic will be guided through the construction zone with the use of flaggers
and a pilot car during the day, and there may be delays of up to 15 minutes in
the work zone.&nbsp; 
Motorists are asked to slow down and be alert to the construction workers and
equipment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Resurfacing JUCO road begins Friday in Barton Co.

Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.

Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.

Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.

There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.

For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.

For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.Column adapted from publication L-231Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May

PAWNEE COUNTY—A Rush County man accused of child sex crimes made a court appearance in Pawnee County on Monday for a preliminary hearing.

Tyler J. Whitten, 30 of La Crosse, is charged with Rape and Aggravated Sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

The alleged acts in Pawnee County occurred at a private residence in Larned sometime between September 16, 2021, and March 1, 2023, and were discovered during an investigation by the Rush County Sheriff regarding similar allegations. 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is assisting in the investigation at the request of the Rush County Sheriff.

Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate felony sexual offenses and bound Whitten over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for July 18, according to McNett.

Based on the age of the alleged victim, if convicted Whitten faces a mandatory 25 years to life sentence under the Jessica’s Law sentencing provisions. He would also be subject to registration as a sex offender under the Kansas Offender Registration Act.

On July 25, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested Whitten in Rush County. He has been in the custody of the Barton County Sheriff since his arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715702737731.png" alt="Whitten photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Whitten photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A Rush County man accused of child sex crimes made a court appearance in Pawnee County on Monday for a preliminary hearing.Tyler J. Whitten, 30 of La Crosse, is charged with Rape and Aggravated Sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.The alleged acts in Pawnee County occurred at a private residence in Larned sometime between September 16, 2021, and March 1, 2023, and were discovered during an investigation by the Rush County Sheriff regarding similar allegations. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is assisting in the investigation at the request of the Rush County Sheriff.Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate felony sexual offenses and bound Whitten over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for July 18, according to McNett.Based on the age of the alleged victim, if convicted Whitten faces a mandatory 25 years to life sentence under the Jessica’s Law sentencing provisions. He would also be subject to registration as a sex offender under the Kansas Offender Registration Act.On July 25, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested Whitten in Rush County. He has been in the custody of the Barton County Sheriff since his arrest.

La Crosse man will face trial for alleged child sex crimes

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/14)

At 7:44 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 120
Avenue &amp; NE 230 Road in Claflin.

At 9:47 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 867 NW 90
Road in Olmitz.

At 11:07 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avneue.

At 3:10 p.m. threats were reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue.

At 3:27 p.m. a fire was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp;
SE 130 Avenue in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/14)

At 8:58 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3820
Broadway Avenue.

At 10:01 a.m. a report of damaging the power outlets on the
outside of the building was made at 906 McKinley Street.

At 10:44 a.m. a report of someone damaging a window on the
building was made at 5223 10th Street.

At 11:44 a.m. a subject following him was reported at 1919
Harrison.

At 1:18 p.m. a theft of items from his residence was reported
at 1335 22nd Street.

At 1:20 p.m. a theft was reported at Madison &amp; 7th
Street.

At 3:09 p.m. a possible theft from a gift card was reported
at 1901 Jackson Street.

At 4:16 p.m. a hit and run was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 4:22 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3307 10th
Street.

At 5:23 p.m. a vehicle almost running him off the road was
reported at 3920 10th Street.

At 5:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th
Street.

At 6:38 p.m. a vehicle swerving in traffic was reported at
10th &amp; McKinley.

At 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.

At 9:55 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1310 Harding
Street.

<figure>
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 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/14)Cattle OutAt 7:44 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 120
Avenue &amp; NE 230 Road in Claflin.Animal ComplaintAt 9:47 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 867 NW 90
Road in Olmitz.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:07 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avneue.Threat / Criminal ThreatsAt 3:10 p.m. threats were reported at 171 SE 1 Avenue.FireAt 3:27 p.m. a fire was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp;
SE 130 Avenue in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/14)Sick PersonAt 8:58 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3820
Broadway Avenue.Criminal DamageAt 10:01 a.m. a report of damaging the power outlets on the
outside of the building was made at 906 McKinley Street.At 10:44 a.m. a report of someone damaging a window on the
building was made at 5223 10th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:44 a.m. a subject following him was reported at 1919
Harrison.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 1:18 p.m. a theft of items from his residence was reported
at 1335 22nd Street.TheftAt 1:20 p.m. a theft was reported at Madison &amp; 7th
Street.At 3:09 p.m. a possible theft from a gift card was reported
at 1901 Jackson Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:16 p.m. a hit and run was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Chest PainAt 4:22 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3307 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:23 p.m. a vehicle almost running him off the road was
reported at 3920 10th Street.At 5:58 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 3307 10th
Street.At 6:38 p.m. a vehicle swerving in traffic was reported at
10th &amp; McKinley.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant Street.Sick PersonAt 9:55 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1310 Harding
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 10:18 p.m. loud music was reported at 4800 10th
Street.Allergies / Envenomation

At 11:32 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3014 Forrest.

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