By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Giving to area non-profits is encouraged year round. But there's something about making it a community event. That's what Golden Belt Community Foundation does each year with Giving Tuesday, which falls on Dec. 3 this year. But Mackenzie Mitchell, development and communications coordinator at GBCF, says the giving season is already underway for the 11th Giving Tuesday.

"There are four ways people can give from now until prior to Dec. 3," she said. "They can give on our website, which is goldenbeltcf.org, and click donate. They can bring it into our office at any point during work hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or they can mail it to our office. On Dec. 3, and Dec. 3 only with all the other options, we are still doing the bank box dropoffs. In each county, there is a list of banks where people can drop off their donations if they don't want to mail it or drive it in."

Typically, more than 100 non-profits in Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford counties are eligible for monetary gifts. GBCF has the opportunity to earn up to $70,000 in matching funds thanks to the Patterson Family Foundation. 

"The organizations that have endowments, it benefits them in a big way because they get matching dollars," Mitchell said. "The more dollars they raise, the more matching dollars they get."

Donations can be made in person at GBCF, 1307 Williams Street in Great Bend. To learn more about this year’s Giving Tuesday, please visit the foundation website at www.goldenbeltcf.org and the Facebook page in the coming weeks. For additional questions please contact Mackenzie Mitchell, development and communications coordinator, at (620) 792-3000 or mackenzie@goldenbeltcf.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703188457351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGiving to area non-profits is encouraged year round. But there's something about making it a community event. That's what Golden Belt Community Foundation does each year with Giving Tuesday, which falls on Dec. 3 this year. But Mackenzie Mitchell, development and communications coordinator at GBCF, says the giving season is already underway for the 11th Giving Tuesday."There are four ways people can give from now until prior to Dec. 3," she said. "They can give on our website, which is goldenbeltcf.org, and click donate. They can bring it into our office at any point during work hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or they can mail it to our office. On Dec. 3, and Dec. 3 only with all the other options, we are still doing the bank box dropoffs. In each county, there is a list of banks where people can drop off their donations if they don't want to mail it or drive it in."Typically, more than 100 non-profits in Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford counties are eligible for monetary gifts. GBCF has the opportunity to earn up to $70,000 in matching funds thanks to the Patterson Family Foundation. "The organizations that have endowments, it benefits them in a big way because they get matching dollars," Mitchell said. "The more dollars they raise, the more matching dollars they get."Donations can be made in person at GBCF, 1307 Williams Street in Great Bend. To learn more about this year’s Giving Tuesday, please visit the foundation website at www.goldenbeltcf.org and the Facebook page in the coming weeks. For additional questions please contact Mackenzie Mitchell, development and communications coordinator, at (620) 792-3000 or mackenzie@goldenbeltcf.org.

Golden Belt Community Foundation's Giving Tuesday now underway

It's almost an afterthought at this point but Brian Bellendir was again elected Barton County Sheriff. First elected in 2012, Bellendir was uncontested in this year's August primary, then was again uncontested in last Tuesday's general election. This election was extra notable as Bellendir becomes the first-ever sheriff in Barton County to be elected to four four-year terms.

"There were some sheriffs back in the 50s and 60s that had two-year terms," he said. "Until 1966, they ran every two years and there were some sheriffs that had four two-year terms."

Barton County law enforcement will see a general shakeup in January. Current County Attorney Levi Morris won a Republican primary in August and took in more than 85 percent of the vote against write-in candidate Kate Wary in Tuesday's election for 20th Judicial District Judge. Colin Reynolds, a former assistant under Morris in the county attorney's office, won a pair of uncontested races to take over for Morris.

"We worked with Colin when he was an assistant county attorney down here," Bellendir said. "I'm confident he's going to do a god job. We've had a good working relationship with him. We've had a good working relationship with Mr. Morris while he's county attorney."

Bellendir is also optimistic about elections at the federal and executive levels. He hopes changes there can slow immigration and drug issues stemming from the border.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614955691374.jpeg" alt="Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt's almost an afterthought at this point but Brian Bellendir was again elected Barton County Sheriff. First elected in 2012, Bellendir was uncontested in this year's August primary, then was again uncontested in last Tuesday's general election. This election was extra notable as Bellendir becomes the first-ever sheriff in Barton County to be elected to four four-year terms."There were some sheriffs back in the 50s and 60s that had two-year terms," he said. "Until 1966, they ran every two years and there were some sheriffs that had four two-year terms."Barton County law enforcement will see a general shakeup in January. Current County Attorney Levi Morris won a Republican primary in August and took in more than 85 percent of the vote against write-in candidate Kate Wary in Tuesday's election for 20th Judicial District Judge. Colin Reynolds, a former assistant under Morris in the county attorney's office, won a pair of uncontested races to take over for Morris."We worked with Colin when he was an assistant county attorney down here," Bellendir said. "I'm confident he's going to do a god job. We've had a good working relationship with him. We've had a good working relationship with Mr. Morris while he's county attorney."Bellendir is also optimistic about elections at the federal and executive levels. He hopes changes there can slow immigration and drug issues stemming from the border.

Bellendir makes Barton Co. history with election to fourth four-year term

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699558639584.jpeg" alt="Thank you to all veterans from Eagle Media and Great Bend Post!" />
 <figcaption>Thank you to all veterans from Eagle Media and Great Bend Post!</figcaption>
 </figure>

Thank you veterans from Eagle Media & Great Bend Post

Veterans Day Sunny, with a high near 65. Calm wind becoming east-southeast 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 44. East-southeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Tuesday Night A slight chance of rain before midnight, then a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms between midnight and 3 a.m., then a slight chance of rain after 3 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 16 to 21 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy, with a northwest wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 34.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 63.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 63.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 47.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 68.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 56.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Veterans Day Sunny, with a high near 65. Calm wind becoming east-southeast 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 44. East-southeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Tuesday Night A slight chance of rain before midnight, then a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms between midnight and 3 a.m., then a slight chance of rain after 3 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 16 to 21 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy, with a northwest wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 34.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 63.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Friday Sunny, with a high near 63.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 47.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 68.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 56.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

In the past, when someone was sentenced to substance-use-disorder (SUD) treatment in lieu of jail time in connection with Kansas Senate Bill 123, The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation wasn’t able to accommodate.

The Center, 5815 Broadway, recently was approved to provide the service in conjunction with what is called SB 123 Funding, which pays for the treatment.

“The Center has had an SUD license for a couple of years but the guidelines for 123 Funding were in the process of being revised,” said Kevin Ford, director of the SUD program. “We had to go through the state-approval process and have satisfied all the requirements.”

The state entities involved are the Kansas Sentencing Commission and the Kansas Department of Corrections.

“The cool thing is that both of these agencies are great to work with,” Ford said. “They are very accommodating. Their commitment to this program allowed our doors to open for those who are sentenced under SB 123 for court-ordered SUD treatment.

“Unfortunately, we had to turn people away before this. There were people who wanted to come here for their treatment but couldn’t because we didn’t have formal approval. We have it now.”

That approval process included ensuring that supervisors and staff members had the required advanced training.

“This illustrates that our staff wants to expand their education and ensure competence,” Ford noted. “The state needed to know that we can provide evidence-based treatment practices. We have met or exceeded all the requirements.”

A little background Senate Bill 123 was approved during the 2003 Kansas legislative session and implemented the following year. The goal was to provide SUD treatment to people convicted of non-violent drug offenses, according to the Kansas Sentencing Commission website.

In 2019, SB 123 was broadened to allow some people convicted of a controlled-substance cultivation or distribution offense to qualify for the program. Last year, it was further expanded to allow some people convicted of non-drug, non-person offenses to qualify.

“The overall goal is to give them the opportunity for treatment prior to going to jail or prison,” Ford explained. “Another goal is to give them life skills that can help them avoid jail and become productive members of society. For those who are unsuccessful, incarceration is a real possibility.

“We want the client to be successful,” Ford continued. “If they stay clean and sober, and out of the court system, the client and the community benefit. The client has the chance to lead a productive life and it is cheaper to provide treatment than to house them in jail.”

Kansas Sentencing Commission Elliott Smith, SB 123 program director at the Kansas Sentencing Commission, noted SB 123 “represents a unique collaboration between the criminal justice system and SUD treatment providers. It is incredibly valuable to all participants and stakeholders.

“SB 123 enhances public safety and public health by offering SUD treatment to people charged with or convicted of certain felonies and diagnosed with SUD, offering them a chance to achieve recovery in the community.”

Smith provided a few statistics from a study. They include:

· The percent reduction in relative odds of a new conviction when successfully completing the SB 123 program is 75 percent.

· SB 123 offenders are 25-30 percent less likely to recidivate than non-SB 123 offenders.

· SB 123 cases had a lower rate of re-conviction (7.7 percent) when compared to non-SB 123 cases (10.6 percent).

· SB 123 offenders were less likely to commit new crimes.

Smith noted that the Recovery from Addiction Funded Treatment (RAFT) diversion program took effect in 2021. This program allows some people charged with drug possession to enter a diversion agreement in lieu of further criminal proceedings.

During fiscal year 2024, SB 123 funded nearly $7 million in SUD assessment and treatment services for more than 1,600 participants.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, 5815 Broadway in Great Bend, serves Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730997380190.jpeg" alt="Kevin Ford, The Center SUD director" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Ford, The Center SUD director</figcaption>
 </figure>In the past, when someone was sentenced to substance-use-disorder (SUD) treatment in lieu of jail time in connection with Kansas Senate Bill 123, The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation wasn’t able to accommodate.Things have changed.The Center, 5815 Broadway, recently was approved to provide the service in conjunction with what is called SB 123 Funding, which pays for the treatment.“The Center has had an SUD license for a couple of years but the guidelines for 123 Funding were in the process of being revised,” said Kevin Ford, director of the SUD program. “We had to go through the state-approval process and have satisfied all the requirements.”The state entities involved are the Kansas Sentencing Commission and the Kansas Department of Corrections.“The cool thing is that both of these agencies are great to work with,” Ford said. “They are very accommodating. Their commitment to this program allowed our doors to open for those who are sentenced under SB 123 for court-ordered SUD treatment.“Unfortunately, we had to turn people away before this. There were people who wanted to come here for their treatment but couldn’t because we didn’t have formal approval. We have it now.”That approval process included ensuring that supervisors and staff members had the required advanced training.“This illustrates that our staff wants to expand their education and ensure competence,” Ford noted. “The state needed to know that we can provide evidence-based treatment practices. We have met or exceeded all the requirements.”A little background Senate Bill 123 was approved during the 2003 Kansas legislative session and implemented the following year. The goal was to provide SUD treatment to people convicted of non-violent drug offenses, according to the Kansas Sentencing Commission website.In 2019, SB 123 was broadened to allow some people convicted of a controlled-substance cultivation or distribution offense to qualify for the program. Last year, it was further expanded to allow some people convicted of non-drug, non-person offenses to qualify.“The overall goal is to give them the opportunity for treatment prior to going to jail or prison,” Ford explained. “Another goal is to give them life skills that can help them avoid jail and become productive members of society. For those who are unsuccessful, incarceration is a real possibility.“We want the client to be successful,” Ford continued. “If they stay clean and sober, and out of the court system, the client and the community benefit. The client has the chance to lead a productive life and it is cheaper to provide treatment than to house them in jail.”Kansas Sentencing Commission Elliott Smith, SB 123 program director at the Kansas Sentencing Commission, noted SB 123 “represents a unique collaboration between the criminal justice system and SUD treatment providers. It is incredibly valuable to all participants and stakeholders.“SB 123 enhances public safety and public health by offering SUD treatment to people charged with or convicted of certain felonies and diagnosed with SUD, offering them a chance to achieve recovery in the community.”Smith provided a few statistics from a study. They include:· The percent reduction in relative odds of a new conviction when successfully completing the SB 123 program is 75 percent.· SB 123 offenders are 25-30 percent less likely to recidivate than non-SB 123 offenders.· SB 123 cases had a lower rate of re-conviction (7.7 percent) when compared to non-SB 123 cases (10.6 percent).· SB 123 offenders were less likely to commit new crimes.Smith noted that the Recovery from Addiction Funded Treatment (RAFT) diversion program took effect in 2021. This program allows some people charged with drug possession to enter a diversion agreement in lieu of further criminal proceedings.During fiscal year 2024, SB 123 funded nearly $7 million in SUD assessment and treatment services for more than 1,600 participants.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, 5815 Broadway in Great Bend, serves Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

The Center offers court-ordered substance-use-disorder treatment

A new hybrid plant has emerged in Kansas wheat fields. Through genetic and cytogenetic testing, it was determined to be a hybrid derived from wheat and triticale. This hybrid was confirmed in three locations in Kansas this year.

The mysterious hybrid was observed by Kansas Crop Improvement Association (KCIA) inspectors in Dickinson County and Marion County. In addition, a producer from south-central Kansas also found the same hybrid.

Samples from all three locations were sent to the National Agricultural Genotyping Center (NAGC) in North Dakota. They confirmed all three samples were identical. The NAGC used the NCBI public database and searched for a match using the BLAST algorithm. Based on the database results, they reported that the ITS2 region suggested the samples contained nuclear genomes of Secale and a Triticum species.

The Wheat Genetic Resource Center (WGRC) at Kansas State University provided further testing through a cytogenetic analysis of the seeds produced by the hybrid. Cytogenetics is a branch of genetics that involves the study of chromosomes. The cytogenetic analysis determined that the hybrid plant had 48 chromosomes: 41 wheat and 7 rye. The result indicated that the hybrid plant is likely derived from natural hybridization between hexaploid wheat and octoploid triticale.

In summary, the mystery plant found in Kansas wheat fields has been identified as a wheat x triticale hybrid. To the best of expert’s knowledge, this is the first time this specific hybrid has been found and identified. Over the course of my investigations says Marion Spiering, Manager of Field Services and Seed Certification KCIA. I grew tired of referring to it as “the wheat x triticale hybrid,” so I’ve informally started calling it “quadrotriticale” because it has both the Secale and Triticum species and to distinguish it from commercial triticale.

The seeds collected and tested by KCIA had an overall low fertility rate. It may show up more in areas where a lot of triticale cover crops are being used. In addition, it may also appear if a farmer saves seed from a wheat field that was grown next to a triticale field. The “quadrotriticale” plants were discovered due to the careful field inspection procedures required for Certified seed production. The “quadrotiticale” plants found by KCIA inspectors grew a little taller than the wheat, making them easy to spot. Like its parents, the hybrid is a bunch-type plant that can be pulled easily if it is found in any production field. Now that this hybrid has been identified, KCIA growers can easily locate it and rogue it out of their Certified seed fields. KCIA’s excellent seed growers and our superior Certified seed standards are more than up to the task of dealing with this new hybrid and continuing to produce high-quality wheat seed.

· The cytogenetic analysis was done by WGRC at KSU.

· The DNA sequencing was done by NAGC, ND.

· The seed germination test was done by KCIA Seed Lab.

· Thanks to Dr. Allan Fritz, K-State Wheat Breeder for his overall assistance with this project and help networking.

Information provided by Marion Spiering, Manager of Field Services and Seed Certification, Kansas Crop Improvement Association, mskcia@kansas.net

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>A new hybrid plant has emerged in Kansas wheat fields. Through genetic and cytogenetic testing, it was determined to be a hybrid derived from wheat and triticale. This hybrid was confirmed in three locations in Kansas this year.The mysterious hybrid was observed by Kansas Crop Improvement Association (KCIA) inspectors in Dickinson County and Marion County. In addition, a producer from south-central Kansas also found the same hybrid.Samples from all three locations were sent to the National Agricultural Genotyping Center (NAGC) in North Dakota. They confirmed all three samples were identical. The NAGC used the NCBI public database and searched for a match using the BLAST algorithm. Based on the database results, they reported that the ITS2 region suggested the samples contained nuclear genomes of Secale and a Triticum species.The Wheat Genetic Resource Center (WGRC) at Kansas State University provided further testing through a cytogenetic analysis of the seeds produced by the hybrid. Cytogenetics is a branch of genetics that involves the study of chromosomes. The cytogenetic analysis determined that the hybrid plant had 48 chromosomes: 41 wheat and 7 rye. The result indicated that the hybrid plant is likely derived from natural hybridization between hexaploid wheat and octoploid triticale.In summary, the mystery plant found in Kansas wheat fields has been identified as a wheat x triticale hybrid. To the best of expert’s knowledge, this is the first time this specific hybrid has been found and identified. Over the course of my investigations says Marion Spiering, Manager of Field Services and Seed Certification KCIA. I grew tired of referring to it as “the wheat x triticale hybrid,” so I’ve informally started calling it “quadrotriticale” because it has both the Secale and Triticum species and to distinguish it from commercial triticale.The seeds collected and tested by KCIA had an overall low fertility rate. It may show up more in areas where a lot of triticale cover crops are being used. In addition, it may also appear if a farmer saves seed from a wheat field that was grown next to a triticale field. The “quadrotriticale” plants were discovered due to the careful field inspection procedures required for Certified seed production. The “quadrotiticale” plants found by KCIA inspectors grew a little taller than the wheat, making them easy to spot. Like its parents, the hybrid is a bunch-type plant that can be pulled easily if it is found in any production field. Now that this hybrid has been identified, KCIA growers can easily locate it and rogue it out of their Certified seed fields. KCIA’s excellent seed growers and our superior Certified seed standards are more than up to the task of dealing with this new hybrid and continuing to produce high-quality wheat seed.Acknowledgments· The cytogenetic analysis was done by WGRC at KSU.· The DNA sequencing was done by NAGC, ND.· The seed germination test was done by KCIA Seed Lab.· Thanks to Dr. Allan Fritz, K-State Wheat Breeder for his overall assistance with this project and help networking.Information provided by Marion Spiering, Manager of Field Services and Seed Certification, Kansas Crop Improvement Association, mskcia@kansas.net

CAMPBELL: New wheat x triticale hybrid confirmed in Kansas

Great Bend High School (GBHS) is honored to host its annual Veteran's Day Assembly, organized by the Social Studies Department, on Monday, November 11, at 9:30 a.m. in the main gym. This event, open to the community, pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans.

The morning will begin with a special breakfast for veterans at 8:45 a.m. in the school Commons. Barbara Austin, Social Science Teacher at GBHS, warmly invites all veterans to join this gathering. “This assembly is a heartfelt thank you to our veterans, a chance for our school and community to recognize the profound impact of their service,” said Austin.

This year’s program will feature Jamie Hutchinson, RN, BSN at Central Care Cancer Center, as the keynote speaker. Hutchinson is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Air National Guard.

The assembly will also include performances by the GBHS choir, band, and orchestra, along with a flag presentation by Legion Riders.

To support accessibility for all attendees, GBHS will provide golf carts to assist guests from the parking lot to the gym entrance.

Veterans’ Breakfast: 8:45 a.m., GBHS Commons

Veteran’s Day Assembly: 9:30 a.m., GBHS Main Gym

GBHS encourages veterans, families, and community members to attend this special event and join in saluting the heroes among us. For more information, please contact GBHS at 620-793-1521.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731001552139.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...Great Bend High School (GBHS) is honored to host its annual Veteran's Day Assembly, organized by the Social Studies Department, on Monday, November 11, at 9:30 a.m. in the main gym. This event, open to the community, pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans.The morning will begin with a special breakfast for veterans at 8:45 a.m. in the school Commons. Barbara Austin, Social Science Teacher at GBHS, warmly invites all veterans to join this gathering. “This assembly is a heartfelt thank you to our veterans, a chance for our school and community to recognize the profound impact of their service,” said Austin.This year’s program will feature Jamie Hutchinson, RN, BSN at Central Care Cancer Center, as the keynote speaker. Hutchinson is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Air National Guard.The assembly will also include performances by the GBHS choir, band, and orchestra, along with a flag presentation by Legion Riders.To support accessibility for all attendees, GBHS will provide golf carts to assist guests from the parking lot to the gym entrance.Event Details:Veterans’ Breakfast: 8:45 a.m., GBHS CommonsVeteran’s Day Assembly: 9:30 a.m., GBHS Main GymGBHS encourages veterans, families, and community members to attend this special event and join in saluting the heroes among us. For more information, please contact GBHS at 620-793-1521.

Great Bend High School to honor veterans with annual assembly

From Great Bend Economic Development...

Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is thrilled to announce an impressive lineup of panelists for the upcoming 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, scheduled for November 13th at the Great Bend Events Center. This year’s event promises to be a transformative experience, featuring insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and a keynote address by renowned leadership expert, Phillip Kelley.

The summit’s highlight will be a panel discussion featuring industry leaders and experts who will share their insights on strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent. The esteemed panelists include:

Dr. Marcus Garstecki, President of Barton Community College: As a collaborative leader, Dr. Garstecki is passionate about the power of community college education to provide career pathways and drive economic development. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the success of students and the community.

Jeremy Elliott, Owner of MyLawn Turf &amp; Tree: With a strong focus on employee satisfaction and client service, Jeremy Elliott has built a thriving business. His insights into building a positive company culture and fostering employee growth will be invaluable to attendees.

Christina Nuttmann, Human Resources Manager at Superior Boilers: Christina Nuttmann has successfully navigated the challenges of attracting and retaining talent in the manufacturing industry. Her expertise in HR strategies and her passion for developing employees will provide practical advice for businesses of all sizes.

Travis Young, CEO of Vortex Companies: As the CEO of a diverse industrial conglomerate, Travis Young brings a wealth of experience in leadership, innovation, and global business. His insights into building a successful and sustainable business will inspire and inform attendees.

The keynote lunch will feature a smoked turkey dinner from The Spread Catering and an inspiring presentation by Phillip Kelley. Kelley, a renowned leadership coach and former NFL chaplain, will share his insights on leadership, purpose, and overcoming challenges in the workplace. His message will resonate with leaders at all levels, providing practical strategies for personal and professional growth.

Location: Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th Street

Registration Options: Businesses can choose to register individual employees for a la carte pricing or sponsor the event to allow multiple employees to attend. Sponsorship packages offer additional benefits, such as prominent branding opportunities at the event. To learn more about the 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, to register, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gbedinc.com">info@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or visit &nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce">www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730998652049.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend Economic Development...Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is thrilled to announce an impressive lineup of panelists for the upcoming 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, scheduled for November 13th at the Great Bend Events Center. This year’s event promises to be a transformative experience, featuring insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and a keynote address by renowned leadership expert, Phillip Kelley.A Powerhouse Panel DiscussionThe summit’s highlight will be a panel discussion featuring industry leaders and experts who will share their insights on strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent. The esteemed panelists include:Dr. Marcus Garstecki, President of Barton Community College: As a collaborative leader, Dr. Garstecki is passionate about the power of community college education to provide career pathways and drive economic development. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the success of students and the community.Jeremy Elliott, Owner of MyLawn Turf &amp; Tree: With a strong focus on employee satisfaction and client service, Jeremy Elliott has built a thriving business. His insights into building a positive company culture and fostering employee growth will be invaluable to attendees.Christina Nuttmann, Human Resources Manager at Superior Boilers: Christina Nuttmann has successfully navigated the challenges of attracting and retaining talent in the manufacturing industry. Her expertise in HR strategies and her passion for developing employees will provide practical advice for businesses of all sizes.Travis Young, CEO of Vortex Companies: As the CEO of a diverse industrial conglomerate, Travis Young brings a wealth of experience in leadership, innovation, and global business. His insights into building a successful and sustainable business will inspire and inform attendees.Keynote Speaker: Phillip KelleyThe keynote lunch will feature a smoked turkey dinner from The Spread Catering and an inspiring presentation by Phillip Kelley. Kelley, a renowned leadership coach and former NFL chaplain, will share his insights on leadership, purpose, and overcoming challenges in the workplace. His message will resonate with leaders at all levels, providing practical strategies for personal and professional growth.Event Details:Date: November 13, 2024Location: Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th StreetTime: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Registration Options: Businesses can choose to register individual employees for a la carte pricing or sponsor the event to allow multiple employees to attend. Sponsorship packages offer additional benefits, such as prominent branding opportunities at the event. To learn more about the 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, to register, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gbedinc.com">info@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or visit &nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce">www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce</a>.&nbsp;

The lineup for 2024 Grow Workforce Summit in Great Bend

The drought monitor report as of Tuesday, November 5 shows improvement across the state. Barton County has improved some with the southeast corner now just abnormally dry. Stafford County and Pawnee also improved. Severe and moderate drought increased across the state. The six to ten-day outlook (November 12 to 16) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of likely above normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning above normal for precipitation. The eight to fourteen-day outlook (November 14 to 20) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal for precipitation. Good for the wheat crop.

We have finally received some moisture with hopefully more on the way. Things almost look wet. We have water in ditches and even a bit of standing water in the fields. This provides some hope but is the drought nearing an end? Hopefully you said no. Today, what is a drought and when is it over.

There are several definitions for drought. Maybe the easiest to understand is a drought is when less than seventy percent of normal precipitation is received. The drought monitor report printed here every week breaks it down from abnormally dry to exceptional drought. So there are really two factors here: how much of the average normal rainfall does the area receive (which changes every thirty years) and what is the status of soil and subsoil moisture. This has implications on crop growth and groundwater recharge. So, even though an area may be in severe or exceptional drought and then receive several inches of rain in a short period of time, you may not see much change in drought status. Why? How much of a dent did it make in the shortfall? And, how much helped in soil moisture recharge? Also factored in are evaporation and plant transpiration rates which are a function of temperature, humidity, wind speed and plant water use. Heavy rains now are more effective than say in July or August in replenishing soil moisture. The evaporative demand now is less and plant water needs are much lower.

How much precipitation it takes to replenish soil and subsoil moisture is a function of the soil type, soil structure and organic matter content. It takes less water to fill a sandy soil than a silt loam or clayey soil. Soils with higher organic matter levels hold more water. Soils with a better sore structure hold more water. No or minimum till soils lose less water due to evaporation. Subsoil moisture can’t recharge until the top soil is recharged and groundwater recharge doesn’t start until soil and subsoil moisture are replenished.

Extreme, high intensity rainfall events result in less effective precipitation than moderate, more long-lasting events as runoff is higher. Soil pores matter here as does residue cover. Soils with good residue cover and a well-developed large pore system are much more effective in soil moisture recharge. Events of a quarter inch or less aren’t generally effective as there is little infiltration into the soil.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682025352095.jpeg" alt="written by: Dr. Victor L. Martin - Instructor/Coordinator Agriculture/Weights and Measures, Barton Community College" />
 <figcaption>written by: Dr. Victor L. Martin - Instructor/Coordinator Agriculture/Weights and Measures, Barton Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>The drought monitor report as of Tuesday, November 5 shows improvement across the state. Barton County has improved some with the southeast corner now just abnormally dry. Stafford County and Pawnee also improved. Severe and moderate drought increased across the state. The six to ten-day outlook (November 12 to 16) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of likely above normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning above normal for precipitation. The eight to fourteen-day outlook (November 14 to 20) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal for precipitation. Good for the wheat crop.We have finally received some moisture with hopefully more on the way. Things almost look wet. We have water in ditches and even a bit of standing water in the fields. This provides some hope but is the drought nearing an end? Hopefully you said no. Today, what is a drought and when is it over.There are several definitions for drought. Maybe the easiest to understand is a drought is when less than seventy percent of normal precipitation is received. The drought monitor report printed here every week breaks it down from abnormally dry to exceptional drought. So there are really two factors here: how much of the average normal rainfall does the area receive (which changes every thirty years) and what is the status of soil and subsoil moisture. This has implications on crop growth and groundwater recharge. So, even though an area may be in severe or exceptional drought and then receive several inches of rain in a short period of time, you may not see much change in drought status. Why? How much of a dent did it make in the shortfall? And, how much helped in soil moisture recharge? Also factored in are evaporation and plant transpiration rates which are a function of temperature, humidity, wind speed and plant water use. Heavy rains now are more effective than say in July or August in replenishing soil moisture. The evaporative demand now is less and plant water needs are much lower.How much precipitation it takes to replenish soil and subsoil moisture is a function of the soil type, soil structure and organic matter content. It takes less water to fill a sandy soil than a silt loam or clayey soil. Soils with higher organic matter levels hold more water. Soils with a better sore structure hold more water. No or minimum till soils lose less water due to evaporation. Subsoil moisture can’t recharge until the top soil is recharged and groundwater recharge doesn’t start until soil and subsoil moisture are replenished.Extreme, high intensity rainfall events result in less effective precipitation than moderate, more long-lasting events as runoff is higher. Soil pores matter here as does residue cover. Soils with good residue cover and a well-developed large pore system are much more effective in soil moisture recharge. Events of a quarter inch or less aren’t generally effective as there is little infiltration into the soil.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Ending a drought?

Aubrey Maneth, Great Bend USD 428 Orchestra Teacher, was recently named the Outstanding Middle School Music Educator by the Southwest Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA). The award, presented on Saturday, November 2, recognizes Maneth’s commitment to music education and her dedication to inspiring the next generation of musicians in Great Bend.

Maneth is in her fifth year of teaching at USD 428, leading orchestra programs for students in grades 6-12. Throughout her tenure, Maneth has fostered a unique environment of growth, mentorship, and inclusivity within her classrooms. Her approach to teaching includes innovative activities such as daily "bellwork" sessions exploring music theory, composer studies, and listening exercises that broaden students' perspectives on music. She has also implemented an "orchestra buddy" program, pairing upperclassmen with younger students to foster mentorship, build leadership skills, and strengthen musical techniques across grade levels.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Maneth serves as the Southwest Kansas Music Educators Association’s Middle School Orchestra Chairperson, organizing auditions, schedules, and events to connect students with musical opportunities across the state. Maneth is also a member of the Student Engagement Middle Level Committee for KMEA, working to expand access to music education for middle school students.

Reflecting on her passion for teaching and her goals in the classroom, Maneth shared, “My greatest accomplishment in education is to invest in my students. I strive to cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages my students, of all skill levels, to grow. I want them to not only enhance their music proficiency but to develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts beyond the classroom.”

Beyond her role in USD 428, Maneth is actively involved with community music ensembles, including the Barton Prairie Winds Community Ensemble, the Barton Jazz Band, and the Great Bend City Band, where she has served as a guest conductor. She has also mentored high school students pursuing future careers in music education, offering guidance and teaching experiences within her own orchestra classes.

USD 428 is proud to celebrate Maneth’s accomplishments and is grateful for her contributions to the district’s music program and the wider Great Bend community.

About Great Bend Public Schools USD 428 The mission of Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment where all are empowered to become responsible citizens and lifelong learners in an ever-changing world. Learn more about our district by visiting GreatBendSchools.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731074651008.jpeg" alt="Aubrey Maneth, left, is photographed with Tori Koehn, president of Southwest KMEA. Maneth received the Outstanding Middle School Music Educator award on Saturday, Nov. 2, in Dodge City." />
 <figcaption>Aubrey Maneth, left, is photographed with Tori Koehn, president of Southwest KMEA. Maneth received the Outstanding Middle School Music Educator award on Saturday, Nov. 2, in Dodge City.</figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...&nbsp;Aubrey Maneth, Great Bend USD 428 Orchestra Teacher, was recently named the Outstanding Middle School Music Educator by the Southwest Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA). The award, presented on Saturday, November 2, recognizes Maneth’s commitment to music education and her dedication to inspiring the next generation of musicians in Great Bend.Maneth is in her fifth year of teaching at USD 428, leading orchestra programs for students in grades 6-12. Throughout her tenure, Maneth has fostered a unique environment of growth, mentorship, and inclusivity within her classrooms. Her approach to teaching includes innovative activities such as daily "bellwork" sessions exploring music theory, composer studies, and listening exercises that broaden students' perspectives on music. She has also implemented an "orchestra buddy" program, pairing upperclassmen with younger students to foster mentorship, build leadership skills, and strengthen musical techniques across grade levels.In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Maneth serves as the Southwest Kansas Music Educators Association’s Middle School Orchestra Chairperson, organizing auditions, schedules, and events to connect students with musical opportunities across the state. Maneth is also a member of the Student Engagement Middle Level Committee for KMEA, working to expand access to music education for middle school students.Reflecting on her passion for teaching and her goals in the classroom, Maneth shared, “My greatest accomplishment in education is to invest in my students. I strive to cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages my students, of all skill levels, to grow. I want them to not only enhance their music proficiency but to develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts beyond the classroom.”Beyond her role in USD 428, Maneth is actively involved with community music ensembles, including the Barton Prairie Winds Community Ensemble, the Barton Jazz Band, and the Great Bend City Band, where she has served as a guest conductor. She has also mentored high school students pursuing future careers in music education, offering guidance and teaching experiences within her own orchestra classes.USD 428 is proud to celebrate Maneth’s accomplishments and is grateful for her contributions to the district’s music program and the wider Great Bend community.About Great Bend Public Schools USD 428 The mission of Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment where all are empowered to become responsible citizens and lifelong learners in an ever-changing world. Learn more about our district by visiting GreatBendSchools.net.

Great Bend's Maneth honored as Outstanding Middle School Music Educator

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The City Connecting Link Improvement Program (CCLIP) is a federal and
state-funded program that provides funds in Kansas to address deficiencies on
state highways within city limits. 

The Kansas Department of Transportation
announced a delay in this year’s project for the City of Great Bend, but Public
Works Director Jason Cauley said CCLIP street repairs will be accepting bids
soon.


"Engineers are going to give us the final plans," said Cauley. "We're planning to have the bid opening day around December 20."

The CCLIP project will include repairs from the Main Street bridge to 2nd
Street. Patton Road, from 9th to 10th, will also be
resurfaced. Cauley told the Great Bend City Council Monday he expected the work to begin next spring or early summer.

"I'm sure you have all seen Patton right now, where it's in pretty bad shape," added Cauley. "Hopefully, next spring we'll get that taken care of."

Required matching funds for projects are based on population. A city with a
population less than 25,000 is required to contribute 10% of the project’s cost.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686150539306.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City Connecting Link Improvement Program (CCLIP) is a federal and
state-funded program that provides funds in Kansas to address deficiencies on
state highways within city limits. The Kansas Department of Transportation
announced a delay in this year’s project for the City of Great Bend, but Public
Works Director Jason Cauley said CCLIP street repairs will be accepting bids
soon.
"Engineers are going to give us the final plans," said Cauley. "We're planning to have the bid opening day around December 20."The CCLIP project will include repairs from the Main Street bridge to 2nd
Street. Patton Road, from 9th to 10th, will also be
resurfaced. Cauley told the Great Bend City Council Monday he expected the work to begin next spring or early summer."I'm sure you have all seen Patton right now, where it's in pretty bad shape," added Cauley. "Hopefully, next spring we'll get that taken care of."Required matching funds for projects are based on population. A city with a
population less than 25,000 is required to contribute 10% of the project’s cost.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Repairs to sections of Patton & S. Main coming in Great Bend

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invites the community to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Vietnam Memorial on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend, Kansas. This special event, held on Veterans Day, honors the courage and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and is open to the public.

Event Schedule The dedication ceremony will follow this schedule:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11:00 - 11:30 AM:&nbsp;Avenue of Flags&nbsp;– with Brandon Kulgen

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11:30 AM - Noon:&nbsp;Vietnam Memorial Dedication&nbsp;– with Larry Parsons

The ceremony will feature special guest U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall.

About the Memorial Designed and crafted by Bruce Bitter of B&amp;B Metal Arts, the new Vietnam Memorial features a 50-foot stainless steel wall adorned with military insignias, a tribute to POWs, and a scaled Huey helicopter replica. The memorial also honors medics and all service members who contributed to the Vietnam War. This addition complements existing memorials in the park dedicated to World War I and World War II veterans.

Background and Funding The vision for this memorial was set in motion by a dedicated committee of local Vietnam veterans in December 2023. With a budget of approximately $115,000, the project has been a significant community effort. While most funds have been secured, donations are still needed for additional features such as a bench, fencing, and landscaping enhancements. Contributions to support the project may be sent to the Great Bend Foundation at PO Box 533, Great Bend, KS, 67530.Artist Bruce Bitter shared that the memorial serves as both a tribute and an opportunity to preserve the stories of Vietnam veterans for future generations. “This project honors those who served and reminds us of their courage and dedication,” Bitter remarked.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729535827949.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invites the community to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Vietnam Memorial on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend, Kansas. This special event, held on Veterans Day, honors the courage and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and is open to the public.Event Schedule The dedication ceremony will follow this schedule:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11:00 - 11:30 AM:&nbsp;Avenue of Flags&nbsp;– with Brandon Kulgen·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11:30 AM - Noon:&nbsp;Vietnam Memorial Dedication&nbsp;– with Larry ParsonsThe ceremony will feature special guest U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall.About the Memorial Designed and crafted by Bruce Bitter of B&amp;B Metal Arts, the new Vietnam Memorial features a 50-foot stainless steel wall adorned with military insignias, a tribute to POWs, and a scaled Huey helicopter replica. The memorial also honors medics and all service members who contributed to the Vietnam War. This addition complements existing memorials in the park dedicated to World War I and World War II veterans.Background and Funding The vision for this memorial was set in motion by a dedicated committee of local Vietnam veterans in December 2023. With a budget of approximately $115,000, the project has been a significant community effort. While most funds have been secured, donations are still needed for additional features such as a bench, fencing, and landscaping enhancements. Contributions to support the project may be sent to the Great Bend Foundation at PO Box 533, Great Bend, KS, 67530.Artist Bruce Bitter shared that the memorial serves as both a tribute and an opportunity to preserve the stories of Vietnam veterans for future generations. “This project honors those who served and reminds us of their courage and dedication,” Bitter remarked.

Memorial ribbon cutting on Veterans Day in Great Bend

The 4-H year runs from October 1 through September 30 of each year. Youth select projects in October or November and work on learning new skills, improving others, and participating in related leadership and community service throughout the year.

Celebrating involvement and accomplishments is an important and fun part of this process! About 80 4-H members and their families gathered on Sunday, November 3, to share a meal, good fellowship, and celebrate 4-H members.

A committee puts together the theme and decides on the meal. They did a great job this year to Level Up with 4-H, a video game themed event! One of the families provided roasters of soup while another took care of the desserts! It was a great way to begin the evening.

One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the focus on communication skills and leadership, and both were on display as 4-H Council officers Melody Braddy, Kassie Linsner, Ailey Williams, and Jonas Kern served as our emcees for the evening.

Each 4-H club has an opportunity to share about events they participated in and to showcase the awards for their club members. It is so much fun to see each club gather with their project awards for a group photo!

In addition, there are a few special awards presented. The Key Award is for 4-H members who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in leadership, citizenship, community service, demonstrations, judging and the holding of club and county offices. In short, it recognizes 4-H members who have lived up to the high ideals expressed by the 4-H Club Pledge. Jonas Kern received his Key Award as a 10-year member of the Ellinwood Energizers and is involved in a wide variety of project areas. In particular, he was recognized at the 2024 Emerald Circle banquet, held during Discovery Days, for having the Kansas 4-H Wildlife Project Record. He is a member of the Cottonwood 4-H2O Ambassadors and presents water educational information to a wide variety of audiences. He is an active member of Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and the 4-H Livestock Committee and has held numerous offices in all of these organizations. He is a gracious leader who is willing to listen but keep the decision-making process moving forward.

The “I Dare You” Leadership award was first offered in 1941 by the late Williams H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina company in St. Louis. He challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award inspired the book, “I Dare You” written by Danforth in which he encourages a balanced life of mental, physical, social, and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership. Ailey Williams, the first recipient holds multiple leadership roles in her club, Junior Leaders, and 4-H Council. In addition, she always shows up with a smile and a “can do” attitude for any task. Melody Braddy, the second recipient, also holds multiple leadership roles across our county and is a candidate for the Kansas Youth Leadership Council this year. Her creative spark is visible in many activities and projects. Both of these young women are incredibly involved in school activities in addition to 4-H yet show up and LEAD activities! I was particularly pleased to see their commitment and engagement the last couple of years as the Visual Arts superintendents. They had a short and sharp learning curve the first year but have gained much experience in the last two years!

Our final special awards are the Friends of 4-H. The first was presented to Shane and Hayley Dicks for their many years as Busy Buzzers club leaders and advisers for the 4-H Livestock Committee and 4-H Ambassadors. The second was presented to the family of the late Frank Ochs who was a 4-H champion and cheerleader to many 4-H families. His smile and jokes in the barn will be greatly missed but we look forward to many years of involvement by his family.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>The 4-H year runs from October 1 through September 30 of each year. Youth select projects in October or November and work on learning new skills, improving others, and participating in related leadership and community service throughout the year.Celebrating involvement and accomplishments is an important and fun part of this process! About 80 4-H members and their families gathered on Sunday, November 3, to share a meal, good fellowship, and celebrate 4-H members.A committee puts together the theme and decides on the meal. They did a great job this year to Level Up with 4-H, a video game themed event! One of the families provided roasters of soup while another took care of the desserts! It was a great way to begin the evening.One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the focus on communication skills and leadership, and both were on display as 4-H Council officers Melody Braddy, Kassie Linsner, Ailey Williams, and Jonas Kern served as our emcees for the evening.Each 4-H club has an opportunity to share about events they participated in and to showcase the awards for their club members. It is so much fun to see each club gather with their project awards for a group photo!In addition, there are a few special awards presented. The Key Award is for 4-H members who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in leadership, citizenship, community service, demonstrations, judging and the holding of club and county offices. In short, it recognizes 4-H members who have lived up to the high ideals expressed by the 4-H Club Pledge. Jonas Kern received his Key Award as a 10-year member of the Ellinwood Energizers and is involved in a wide variety of project areas. In particular, he was recognized at the 2024 Emerald Circle banquet, held during Discovery Days, for having the Kansas 4-H Wildlife Project Record. He is a member of the Cottonwood 4-H2O Ambassadors and presents water educational information to a wide variety of audiences. He is an active member of Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and the 4-H Livestock Committee and has held numerous offices in all of these organizations. He is a gracious leader who is willing to listen but keep the decision-making process moving forward.The “I Dare You” Leadership award was first offered in 1941 by the late Williams H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina company in St. Louis. He challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award inspired the book, “I Dare You” written by Danforth in which he encourages a balanced life of mental, physical, social, and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership. Ailey Williams, the first recipient holds multiple leadership roles in her club, Junior Leaders, and 4-H Council. In addition, she always shows up with a smile and a “can do” attitude for any task. Melody Braddy, the second recipient, also holds multiple leadership roles across our county and is a candidate for the Kansas Youth Leadership Council this year. Her creative spark is visible in many activities and projects. Both of these young women are incredibly involved in school activities in addition to 4-H yet show up and LEAD activities! I was particularly pleased to see their commitment and engagement the last couple of years as the Visual Arts superintendents. They had a short and sharp learning curve the first year but have gained much experience in the last two years!Our final special awards are the Friends of 4-H. The first was presented to Shane and Hayley Dicks for their many years as Busy Buzzers club leaders and advisers for the 4-H Livestock Committee and 4-H Ambassadors. The second was presented to the family of the late Frank Ochs who was a 4-H champion and cheerleader to many 4-H families. His smile and jokes in the barn will be greatly missed but we look forward to many years of involvement by his family.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: Celebrating achievements

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Mike Courson and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired Nov. 7, 2024.

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/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Mike Courson and Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir that aired Nov. 7, 2024.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Sheriff Brian Bellendir" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bxwsw-1731765-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir

Wheat foods get caught in a crossfire of fad diets and misinformation ranging from low-carb diets like Atkins to pushes for gluten-free foods following Wheat Belly. Luckily, producers have a powerful ally to combat these negative trends - the Wheat Foods Council, the industry organization that works to fuel demand for U.S. wheat, set the record straight on enriched wheat foods and bring in expert voices to consumer-influencing conversations.&nbsp;

Tim O’Connor, president of the Wheat Foods Council, recently sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, for an episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast to discuss how the organization is targeting “wheat influencers” to redefine wheat foods in the public eye.

“We work to increase demand for the 50 percent of wheat that’s produced in the U.S. that’s not exported,” O’Connor said. “It stays here in this marketplace, and we have to deal with the challenges and the opportunities that the U.S. marketplace presents us.”

The Wheat Foods Council is an industry-wide partnership dedicated to increasing domestic wheat foods consumption through nutrition information, research, education and promotional programs. The Council has a unique membership, comprised of the entire wheat value chain, including state wheat commissions supported by wheat checkoff dollars.&nbsp;

“Here we have everybody from the growers, the state wheat commissions, the millers, the bakers, the ingredient suppliers, the life science companies. Everyone in the value chain can participate in the Wheat Foods Council,” O’Connor said. “Because the world looks different to a wheat grower than it does to a miller or a baker. When we can blend all of those points of view together to understand the challenges each sees, we can find a solution that’s a win-win for everyone.”&nbsp;

O’Connor and Harries discussed how the Council currently has two major priorities for their work - tackling misperceptions about enriched wheat foods and leveraging influencers in the fitness and culinary sectors to reshape public perception.

Enriched wheat flour is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. This enrichment has provided major health benefits to consumers and represents the majority of wheat foods products produced in the United States. Still, enriched wheat flour is largely misunderstood or misrepresented in nutritional information online.&nbsp;

“You can find thousands of articles on wonderful things about whole wheat,” O’Connor said. “But once you start looking for information on enriched wheat flour, it starts to get pretty negative very fast.”&nbsp;

Addressing this misperception, along with the larger challenge of combatting low-carb fad diets, requires a very strategic approach. But the Wheat Foods Council is up to the challenge, as they work to turn those messages around by working with groups that influence consumers - chefs and fitness professionals. Targeting these influencers offers more credibility than a seeming echo chamber of the wheat industry positively promoting their products. Plus, it is also more financially efficient because the organization can work with influencers who reach millions of people.&nbsp;

The first group that the Wheat Foods Council targets is fitness professionals, including nutritionists and others who educate consumers about exercise, nutrition, weight loss, weight management and other related topics. Altogether, there are more than 300,000 of these professionals, who collectively reach several million consumers every day. The organization started by conducting surveys to better understand what information these groups gave consumers, finding that they promoted a lot of fad diets and misinformation.&nbsp;

“The majority of who they see are people who are overweight and out of shape and have decided to do something about it,” O’Connor said. “And the first thing they would do would be put them on a low-carb diet because they believed strongly that this was the way to manage and lose weight.”

In addition to fitness professionals, the Wheat Foods Council also decided to target the chefs who set the menus at major restaurant chains or work at food product companies. This includes chefs that set the menus at “industry institutional theaters” like college campuses, corporate campuses, sports venues and other places where people go every day and eat what is on the menu.&nbsp;

The approach to reach these influential groups is similar - meeting these folks where they are and providing them with information on the nutritional value of wheat foods and how this ingredient can help meet consumer wants.

For fitness professionals, the Wheat Foods Council conducts webinars that provide continuing educational credits, pulling in experts like Nancy Clark, an Olympian turned sports nutritionist, and Dr. Brett Carver, a wheat breeder at Oklahoma State University. For chefs and other decision-makers, the Council brings these experts to custom educational programs at places like the Culinary Institute of America. For both audiences, the Council also brings its expertise to industry conferences and provides educational material influencers can use on their social media channels.&nbsp;

“We’ve had tremendous success in getting high-volume restaurant chains and high-volume food manufacturers coming to our events and going home with a whole different perspective on how to use wheat foods,” O’Connor said. “They feed millions of people every day. We want them to see wheat foods as something that they want to consume, something that they value rather than buy into many of the trends that have vilified wheat foods.”

This work requires a strategic approach and complex conversations, but at the end of the day, the Wheat Foods Council is providing simple and straightforward answers to consumer questions like: Is this good for me and my family? Do I want to serve this and eat this and feed it to my kids, or is this something I want to stay away from?

Each piece of education is a well-executed play from the Wheat Foods Council’s strategic playbook - driving demand for U.S. wheat and bringing a positive image of wheat back to the American dinner table. And it would not be possible without the support of the entire wheat industry, down to the individual wheat producer who pays into their state checkoff each harvest.&nbsp;

“This work is important to growers; it builds a more vibrant, dynamic marketplace for the wheat that they grow,” O’Connor said. “They need to know that the money they’re putting into these check-off programs is being utilized to advance the work of the Wheat Foods Council along with the other organizations that work on international marketing and policy work on behalf of the industry.”&nbsp;

Listen to the full conversation with Tim O’Connor and all other episodes of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011d2jphxPNdKTDdCn_c_CbrS9wKsQxLFyN0ZVEXrDFeDmKXpb0jr2aC4s3G6_tWL7L0t7fYo8Gnumz_QFwHhDLZhPpxCXvF9kzlp1WFkZirok1ZnRZ3v1Xqf2CUCgJKJFgYDDT0wCOQHvdRJcJa5G9txToVvyd0Wi_-2eP_nUKQ6acec41LT7YxUMVm5ew6CBvf68fYecAeCO8yRZ7f70hV8vb8W8VpJr&amp;c=kwqXs8vf4rIj6ilwrMiUEIblyuF18erUa1T34uJyJcX8uuzk5grd6Q==&amp;ch=l8iEkXvqhyHHwzE-j9WQJHWZi3IlzaPBb3qTAv0Xs5ZPsbTJHlifFQ==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730998399564.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Wheat foods get caught in a crossfire of fad diets and misinformation ranging from low-carb diets like Atkins to pushes for gluten-free foods following Wheat Belly. Luckily, producers have a powerful ally to combat these negative trends - the Wheat Foods Council, the industry organization that works to fuel demand for U.S. wheat, set the record straight on enriched wheat foods and bring in expert voices to consumer-influencing conversations.&nbsp;Tim O’Connor, president of the Wheat Foods Council, recently sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, for an episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast to discuss how the organization is targeting “wheat influencers” to redefine wheat foods in the public eye.“We work to increase demand for the 50 percent of wheat that’s produced in the U.S. that’s not exported,” O’Connor said. “It stays here in this marketplace, and we have to deal with the challenges and the opportunities that the U.S. marketplace presents us.”The Wheat Foods Council is an industry-wide partnership dedicated to increasing domestic wheat foods consumption through nutrition information, research, education and promotional programs. The Council has a unique membership, comprised of the entire wheat value chain, including state wheat commissions supported by wheat checkoff dollars.&nbsp;“Here we have everybody from the growers, the state wheat commissions, the millers, the bakers, the ingredient suppliers, the life science companies. Everyone in the value chain can participate in the Wheat Foods Council,” O’Connor said. “Because the world looks different to a wheat grower than it does to a miller or a baker. When we can blend all of those points of view together to understand the challenges each sees, we can find a solution that’s a win-win for everyone.”&nbsp;O’Connor and Harries discussed how the Council currently has two major priorities for their work - tackling misperceptions about enriched wheat foods and leveraging influencers in the fitness and culinary sectors to reshape public perception.Enriched wheat flour is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. This enrichment has provided major health benefits to consumers and represents the majority of wheat foods products produced in the United States. Still, enriched wheat flour is largely misunderstood or misrepresented in nutritional information online.&nbsp;“You can find thousands of articles on wonderful things about whole wheat,” O’Connor said. “But once you start looking for information on enriched wheat flour, it starts to get pretty negative very fast.”&nbsp;Addressing this misperception, along with the larger challenge of combatting low-carb fad diets, requires a very strategic approach. But the Wheat Foods Council is up to the challenge, as they work to turn those messages around by working with groups that influence consumers - chefs and fitness professionals. Targeting these influencers offers more credibility than a seeming echo chamber of the wheat industry positively promoting their products. Plus, it is also more financially efficient because the organization can work with influencers who reach millions of people.&nbsp;The first group that the Wheat Foods Council targets is fitness professionals, including nutritionists and others who educate consumers about exercise, nutrition, weight loss, weight management and other related topics. Altogether, there are more than 300,000 of these professionals, who collectively reach several million consumers every day. The organization started by conducting surveys to better understand what information these groups gave consumers, finding that they promoted a lot of fad diets and misinformation.&nbsp;“The majority of who they see are people who are overweight and out of shape and have decided to do something about it,” O’Connor said. “And the first thing they would do would be put them on a low-carb diet because they believed strongly that this was the way to manage and lose weight.”In addition to fitness professionals, the Wheat Foods Council also decided to target the chefs who set the menus at major restaurant chains or work at food product companies. This includes chefs that set the menus at “industry institutional theaters” like college campuses, corporate campuses, sports venues and other places where people go every day and eat what is on the menu.&nbsp;The approach to reach these influential groups is similar - meeting these folks where they are and providing them with information on the nutritional value of wheat foods and how this ingredient can help meet consumer wants.For fitness professionals, the Wheat Foods Council conducts webinars that provide continuing educational credits, pulling in experts like Nancy Clark, an Olympian turned sports nutritionist, and Dr. Brett Carver, a wheat breeder at Oklahoma State University. For chefs and other decision-makers, the Council brings these experts to custom educational programs at places like the Culinary Institute of America. For both audiences, the Council also brings its expertise to industry conferences and provides educational material influencers can use on their social media channels.&nbsp;“We’ve had tremendous success in getting high-volume restaurant chains and high-volume food manufacturers coming to our events and going home with a whole different perspective on how to use wheat foods,” O’Connor said. “They feed millions of people every day. We want them to see wheat foods as something that they want to consume, something that they value rather than buy into many of the trends that have vilified wheat foods.”This work requires a strategic approach and complex conversations, but at the end of the day, the Wheat Foods Council is providing simple and straightforward answers to consumer questions like: Is this good for me and my family? Do I want to serve this and eat this and feed it to my kids, or is this something I want to stay away from?Each piece of education is a well-executed play from the Wheat Foods Council’s strategic playbook - driving demand for U.S. wheat and bringing a positive image of wheat back to the American dinner table. And it would not be possible without the support of the entire wheat industry, down to the individual wheat producer who pays into their state checkoff each harvest.&nbsp;“This work is important to growers; it builds a more vibrant, dynamic marketplace for the wheat that they grow,” O’Connor said. “They need to know that the money they’re putting into these check-off programs is being utilized to advance the work of the Wheat Foods Council along with the other organizations that work on international marketing and policy work on behalf of the industry.”&nbsp;Listen to the full conversation with Tim O’Connor and all other episodes of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011d2jphxPNdKTDdCn_c_CbrS9wKsQxLFyN0ZVEXrDFeDmKXpb0jr2aC4s3G6_tWL7L0t7fYo8Gnumz_QFwHhDLZhPpxCXvF9kzlp1WFkZirok1ZnRZ3v1Xqf2CUCgJKJFgYDDT0wCOQHvdRJcJa5G9txToVvyd0Wi_-2eP_nUKQ6acec41LT7YxUMVm5ew6CBvf68fYecAeCO8yRZ7f70hV8vb8W8VpJr&amp;c=kwqXs8vf4rIj6ilwrMiUEIblyuF18erUa1T34uJyJcX8uuzk5grd6Q==&amp;ch=l8iEkXvqhyHHwzE-j9WQJHWZi3IlzaPBb3qTAv0Xs5ZPsbTJHlifFQ==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Redefining wheat foods in the public eye

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee and ribbon-cutting host Fuller Industries Inc. used the occasion Thursday morning to tout a recent expansion as the long-time Barton County manufacturer looks to further growth.

“We are at an important point for Fuller,” said Craig Rudin, Fuller's chief executive officer. “Fuller is truly poised to be a larger player not only on the local and national stage but internationally as well.”

Rudin joined Joe Mann, Fuller vice president and general manager, and other employees in thanking the chamber and those present Thursday at the plant west of Great Bend. Along with chamber staff, chamber ambassadors, and area residents, they gathered in the front offices recently remodeled after the July 2023 wind and hailstorm that caused extensive damage massive factory.

“We have a long history in this community, and we appreciate the support over the past 50 years,” he said. “We look forward to a continued relationship in the years to come.”

Initiated last year, the commercial cleaning product maker has since fully integrated the operations of a sister factory in Canada into its operations here, he said. Based in Great Bend, Fuller is owned by GDI of Toronto, Quebec, Canada.

“This is a huge opportunity for us,” Rudin said. “It is just the first step in our broader strategy to become the leader in this industry.”

The consolidation with the Canadian facility means the company will add 200 new items to its production resume focused on dish soap, laundry detergent, and commercial cleaning chemicals. It also expands fuller into new regions of North America and adds new customers, he said.

But this also means the company must up its staffing game, Rudin said. They will need line workers but will also need folks with specialized training in technology, chemistry and other technician fields.

As part of Fuller’s efforts to modernize, there is a concerted effort to upgrade existing infrastructure. But, moreover, there is a plan to utilize more automation and robotics.

And, Rudin said, with the growing need for environmentally sustainable products, something Fuller has excelled in, employees are needed to test samples and help meet the stringent certification requirements.

“Fuller has a strong environmental commitment,” he said. “We will remain on the cutting edge of sustainable manufacturing.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730997646964.jpeg" alt="Fuller Industries Inc.’s Chief Executive Officer Craig Rudin joins Vice President and General Manager Joe Mann, center, fellow employees, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce ambassadors, and others to cut the ribbon following a Chamber coffee Thursday morning. Fuller is celebrating a recent expansion." />
 <figcaption>Fuller Industries Inc.’s Chief Executive Officer Craig Rudin joins Vice President and General Manager Joe Mann, center, fellow employees, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce ambassadors, and others to cut the ribbon following a Chamber coffee Thursday morning. Fuller is celebrating a recent expansion.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSGreat Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee and ribbon-cutting host Fuller Industries Inc. used the occasion Thursday morning to tout a recent expansion as the long-time Barton County manufacturer looks to further growth.“We are at an important point for Fuller,” said Craig Rudin, Fuller's chief executive officer. “Fuller is truly poised to be a larger player not only on the local and national stage but internationally as well.”Rudin joined Joe Mann, Fuller vice president and general manager, and other employees in thanking the chamber and those present Thursday at the plant west of Great Bend. Along with chamber staff, chamber ambassadors, and area residents, they gathered in the front offices recently remodeled after the July 2023 wind and hailstorm that caused extensive damage massive factory.“We have a long history in this community, and we appreciate the support over the past 50 years,” he said. “We look forward to a continued relationship in the years to come.”Initiated last year, the commercial cleaning product maker has since fully integrated the operations of a sister factory in Canada into its operations here, he said. Based in Great Bend, Fuller is owned by GDI of Toronto, Quebec, Canada.“This is a huge opportunity for us,” Rudin said. “It is just the first step in our broader strategy to become the leader in this industry.”The consolidation with the Canadian facility means the company will add 200 new items to its production resume focused on dish soap, laundry detergent, and commercial cleaning chemicals. It also expands fuller into new regions of North America and adds new customers, he said.But this also means the company must up its staffing game, Rudin said. They will need line workers but will also need folks with specialized training in technology, chemistry and other technician fields.As part of Fuller’s efforts to modernize, there is a concerted effort to upgrade existing infrastructure. But, moreover, there is a plan to utilize more automation and robotics.And, Rudin said, with the growing need for environmentally sustainable products, something Fuller has excelled in, employees are needed to test samples and help meet the stringent certification requirements.“Fuller has a strong environmental commitment,” he said. “We will remain on the cutting edge of sustainable manufacturing.”

Fuller marks growth in Great Bend during ribbon cutting

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

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b722850b-ef2e-426d-ad49-9e4b0ce53339">2024 General Election results (including Barton Co. results)</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/87de70cc-95d7-4219-a1e8-9048312b036e">Sen. Marshall, Great Bend Chamber to dedicate new Vietnam memorial</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a71850b0-a543-42f2-b141-456d8cfbf504">Man arrested for theft of $50,000 in scam of Great Bend elder</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720201966749.jpeg" alt="Several local elections in Barton County were decided in the General Election on Nov. 5, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Several local elections in Barton County were decided in the General Election on Nov. 5, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/5c30a3sv/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/b722850b-ef2e-426d-ad49-9e4b0ce53339">2024 General Election results (including Barton Co. results)</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/87de70cc-95d7-4219-a1e8-9048312b036e">Sen. Marshall, Great Bend Chamber to dedicate new Vietnam memorial</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a71850b0-a543-42f2-b141-456d8cfbf504">Man arrested for theft of $50,000 in scam of Great Bend elder</a>

Eagle Media's news week in review

You have an opportunity today to become the next instant finalist in the $20k Christmas Cash Giveaway! It's presented by Bauer Computers, Mayo Money Management and Moeder Plumbing Heating &amp; Air, Your Bryant Dealer - Whatever it takes!

Sign up today at Magna Dry. You can register from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.&nbsp;

Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/48c5c560-0a08-486a-b6b9-c86c56f04063">HERE</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731010333250.png" alt="Magna Dry" />
 <figcaption>Magna Dry</figcaption>
 </figure>You have an opportunity today to become the next instant finalist in the $20k Christmas Cash Giveaway! It's presented by Bauer Computers, Mayo Money Management and Moeder Plumbing Heating &amp; Air, Your Bryant Dealer - Whatever it takes!Sign up today at Magna Dry. You can register from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.&nbsp;Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/48c5c560-0a08-486a-b6b9-c86c56f04063">HERE</a>

$20K Christmas Cash Giveaway - Sign up today at Magna Dry

Last Thursday was a theme day at Jefferson Elementary School in Great Bend. That made the mood more festive when second grader Myla Rein was surprised with the news that she was Eagle Media's November winner in the Make a Difference Contest.

"I make a difference by being a leader at school and helping my teacher in class," Myla said.

As a winner in the Make a Difference Contest, Myla was handed a Great Bend Chamber gift certificate worth $100. Her teacher, Bailey Herter, also received $100. She said Myla is a joy to have in the classroom.

"Myla is an awesome leader in class," Herter said. "She's always the first person to help a student in need. She is a great volunteer for whatever I need: making copies or running things down to the office. She is always a good friend to everybody in the class."

Make a Difference Contest forms were distributed to Barton County elementary schools in August. Eligible students can enter the contest by filling out the form and stating how they are making a difference in the world around them. Winners are randomly selected with the student winning a $100 chamber certificate and the nominating teacher winning $100. New winners will be drawn each month through May.

The winning student will also get a visit from Eagle Media staff and be featured on a radio news broadcast. This year's contest is powered by the following sponsors:

Medical Park Pharmacy, Mayo Money Management, Hazmat Response, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Freedom Claims Management, Inc., Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company, Stone Sand Company/Stone Waste Management, Miller Plastics/Miller Warehouse, Nex-Tech Wireless, USD #431 Hoisington, Great Bend Redi Mix, Heavy Duty Diesel &amp; Auto, USD #428 Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730994192196.jpeg" alt="Myla Rein, a second grader at Jefferson Elementary School in Great Bend, was selected as Eagle Media's November winner in the Make a Difference Contest. Rein and her teacher, Bailey Herter, each received $100." />
 <figcaption>Myla Rein, a second grader at Jefferson Elementary School in Great Bend, was selected as Eagle Media's November winner in the Make a Difference Contest. Rein and her teacher, Bailey Herter, each received $100.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast Thursday was a theme day at Jefferson Elementary School in Great Bend. That made the mood more festive when second grader Myla Rein was surprised with the news that she was Eagle Media's November winner in the Make a Difference Contest."I make a difference by being a leader at school and helping my teacher in class," Myla said.As a winner in the Make a Difference Contest, Myla was handed a Great Bend Chamber gift certificate worth $100. Her teacher, Bailey Herter, also received $100. She said Myla is a joy to have in the classroom."Myla is an awesome leader in class," Herter said. "She's always the first person to help a student in need. She is a great volunteer for whatever I need: making copies or running things down to the office. She is always a good friend to everybody in the class."Make a Difference Contest forms were distributed to Barton County elementary schools in August. Eligible students can enter the contest by filling out the form and stating how they are making a difference in the world around them. Winners are randomly selected with the student winning a $100 chamber certificate and the nominating teacher winning $100. New winners will be drawn each month through May.The winning student will also get a visit from Eagle Media staff and be featured on a radio news broadcast. This year's contest is powered by the following sponsors:Medical Park Pharmacy, Mayo Money Management, Hazmat Response, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Freedom Claims Management, Inc., Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company, Stone Sand Company/Stone Waste Management, Miller Plastics/Miller Warehouse, Nex-Tech Wireless, USD #431 Hoisington, Great Bend Redi Mix, Heavy Duty Diesel &amp; Auto, USD #428 Great Bend.

Jefferson Elementary's Rein selected as November Make a Difference winner

West Derby 42, Junction City 14 Wichita East 21, Dodge City 17 Manhattan 49, Maize 0 Wichita Nortwest 62, Wichita South 28

West Hays 19, Great Bend 14 Hutchinson 33, Liberal 13&nbsp; Goddard Eisenhower 37, Maize South 26 Topeka Seaman 43, Valley Center 15

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730642316640.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Class 6AWest Derby 42, Junction City 14 Wichita East 21, Dodge City 17 Manhattan 49, Maize 0 Wichita Nortwest 62, Wichita South 28CLASS 5AWest Hays 19, Great Bend 14 Hutchinson 33, Liberal 13&nbsp; Goddard Eisenhower 37, Maize South 26 Topeka Seaman 43, Valley Center 15Class 4AWest Wamego 20, McPherson 13 Buhler 62, Mulvane 21&nbsp; Andover Central 35, Winfield 7&nbsp; Wellington 20, Kapaun Mt. Carmel 19Class 3AWest Andale 74, Clay Center 0 Cheney 14, Cheney 6 No. 2 Rock Creek (8-1) vs. No. 7 Holcomb (7-2)&nbsp; 11AM Saturday Scott City 9, Hesston 7Class 2AWest Southeast of Saline 34, Norton 7 Hoisington 24, Haven 14 Garden Plain 28, Phillipsburg 0 Beloit 28, Halstead 0Class 1AWest Conway Springs 21, Marion 6 Plainville 12, Sedgwick 6 Medicine Lodge 22, Trinity Catholic 20 Valley Heights 24, Sterling 198-Man DI (Home team listed first)East Little River 34, West Elk 14 Central Plains 58, Chase County 52 Madison 14, Ell-Saline 12 Clifton Clyde 44, Oswego 20West South Central 24, Rawlins County 6 Hill City 50, Sublette 22 Wichita County 58, South Gray 0 Hoxie 54, Oxford 08-Man DII&nbsp;(Home team listed first)West Hutchinson Central Christian 48, Logan-Palco 6 Victoria (9-0) vs. Wallace County (5-3) 2PM Saturday Hodgeman County 34, Bucklin 28 Dighton 30, Attica-Argonia 166-Man&nbsp;(Home team listed first)East Peabody-Burns 59, Chetopa 20 Tescott 62, Altoona Midway 12 Cunningham (W via forfeit v Southern Coffey County) Otis-Bison 65, Marais des Cygnes Valley 33West South Barber (8-1) vs. Northern Valley (4-5) 1PM Saturday Golden Plains 46, Pawnee Heights 0 Weskan 52, Moscow 6 Ingalls 48, Cheylin 0

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