Central Kansas Christian Academy,&nbsp;a&nbsp;nonprofit Christian school in Great Bend,&nbsp;will be hosting its annual&nbsp;Kindergarten Screenings during the week of April 2 through April 5 by scheduled appointment. 

CKCA offers a curriculum&nbsp;that not only focuses&nbsp;on academic growth but also nurtures the student's&nbsp;Christian spirit. 

These screenings are designed for children who will be entering Kindergarten in the 2024/2025 school year. The individual screenings will take place at CKCA, located at 215 McKinley Street in Great Bend.&nbsp; 

You can find more details about the event or sign up for a screening by visiting:<a href="https://www.ckcacademy.com/post/ckca-to-host-annual-open-house-on-march-28th-2024" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.ckcacademy.com/post/kindergarten-screenings</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711378463015.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Central Kansas Christian Academy,&nbsp;a&nbsp;nonprofit Christian school in Great Bend,&nbsp;will be hosting its annual&nbsp;Kindergarten Screenings during the week of April 2 through April 5 by scheduled appointment. CKCA offers a curriculum&nbsp;that not only focuses&nbsp;on academic growth but also nurtures the student's&nbsp;Christian spirit. These screenings are designed for children who will be entering Kindergarten in the 2024/2025 school year. The individual screenings will take place at CKCA, located at 215 McKinley Street in Great Bend.&nbsp; You can find more details about the event or sign up for a screening by visiting:<a href="https://www.ckcacademy.com/post/ckca-to-host-annual-open-house-on-march-28th-2024" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.ckcacademy.com/post/kindergarten-screenings</a>

Great Bend school hosting kindergarten screenings April 2-5

3/22 BOOKED: Miles Jackson on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.

BOOKED: Chad Beck on Barton County District Court warrant for Breach of Privacy, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Zachary McKay on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dylan Kent on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kyle Wagner on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Carry of a Firearm, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Troy Perez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, by order of the court; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility and Possession of Methamphetamine, on $10,000 OR bond.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Ashley Smith on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Chad Beck on Barton County District Court warrant for Breach of Privacy, after posting a $10,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Dylan Kent on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Kyle Wagner on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Carry of a Firearm, after posting $2,500 bond.

3/23 BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of THC, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Billy Eldridge on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Burglary and Aggravated Battery, bond set at $75,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Devon Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Disorderly Conduct, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of THC, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Billy Eldridge on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Burglary and Aggravated Battery, after posting $75,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Travis Ploutz on Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear and Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Devon Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Disorderly Conduct, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

3/24 BOOKED: Myranda Dominguez on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jennifer Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Myranda Dominguez on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond.

RELEASED: Jennifer Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $2,500 C/S through Ace Bails Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/22 BOOKED: Miles Jackson on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.BOOKED: Chad Beck on Barton County District Court warrant for Breach of Privacy, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Zachary McKay on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Dylan Kent on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kyle Wagner on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Carry of a Firearm, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Troy Perez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, by order of the court; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility and Possession of Methamphetamine, on $10,000 OR bond.&nbsp;RELEASED: Ashley Smith on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Chad Beck on Barton County District Court warrant for Breach of Privacy, after posting a $10,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Dylan Kent on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Kyle Wagner on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Carry of a Firearm, after posting $2,500 bond.3/23 BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of THC, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Billy Eldridge on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Burglary and Aggravated Battery, bond set at $75,000 C/S.BOOKED: Devon Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Disorderly Conduct, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of THC, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Billy Eldridge on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Burglary and Aggravated Battery, after posting $75,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Travis Ploutz on Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear and Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Devon Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Disorderly Conduct, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.3/24 BOOKED: Myranda Dominguez on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Jennifer Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Myranda Dominguez on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond.RELEASED: Jennifer Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $2,500 C/S through Ace Bails Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/22 - 3/24)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

While running a summer collegiate baseball organization is a year-long
job, more people are starting to think about the return of the Great Bend Bat
Cats as spring has arrived. The 2024 season marks year eight for the Bat Cats
competing at Al Burns Memorial Field. 

Manager Roger Ward said local support has
been great and his team will continue to find ways to get the community
involved. On July 2, the Bat Cats will face the Great Bend
Bombers, a team consisting of local high school athletes.


"Some of those Bombers players are aspiring to be college baseball players," said Ward. "They'll get a chance to play against the Bat Cats. That night too, hopefully, we'll have the Great Bend Rec baseball and softball teams there. Each team can run the bases between innings and get announced. We hope we have some really good participation on that."

While looking for community support, the Bat Cats are also looking for host
families this summer. For two months, residents have the chance to house one or
more of the collegiate players that come to Great Bend from around the country
to play.


The Bat Cats’ first game this year is June 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711135554279.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Bat Cats Manager Roger Ward presented a signed bat to the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board on Friday, March 22, 2024 as appreciation for the CVB's support of the Bat Cats." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Bat Cats Manager Roger Ward presented a signed bat to the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Board on Friday, March 22, 2024 as appreciation for the CVB's support of the Bat Cats.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile running a summer collegiate baseball organization is a year-long
job, more people are starting to think about the return of the Great Bend Bat
Cats as spring has arrived. The 2024 season marks year eight for the Bat Cats
competing at Al Burns Memorial Field. Manager Roger Ward said local support has
been great and his team will continue to find ways to get the community
involved. On July 2, the Bat Cats will face the Great Bend
Bombers, a team consisting of local high school athletes.
"Some of those Bombers players are aspiring to be college baseball players," said Ward. "They'll get a chance to play against the Bat Cats. That night too, hopefully, we'll have the Great Bend Rec baseball and softball teams there. Each team can run the bases between innings and get announced. We hope we have some really good participation on that."While looking for community support, the Bat Cats are also looking for host
families this summer. For two months, residents have the chance to house one or
more of the collegiate players that come to Great Bend from around the country
to play.
The Bat Cats’ first game this year is June 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Supporting the community…Bat Cats to play Great Bend Bombers

Today A slight chance of rain and snow showers before noon, then a chance of snow showers between noon and 4 p.m., then a chance of snow showers and sleet after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 31 by 5 p.m. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 18 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 38 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Tonight Snow, mainly before 10 p.m. Low around 22. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 23 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy, with a northwest wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming east-northeast after midnight.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53. South wind 5 to 11 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 67.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Breezy.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 76.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 44.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 71.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of rain and snow showers before noon, then a chance of snow showers between noon and 4 p.m., then a chance of snow showers and sleet after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 31 by 5 p.m. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 18 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 38 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Tonight Snow, mainly before 10 p.m. Low around 22. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 23 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy, with a northwest wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19. North-northwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming east-northeast after midnight.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53. South wind 5 to 11 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 67.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Breezy.Friday Sunny, with a high near 76.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 44.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 71.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting ceremony to commemorate Magna Dry’s newly renovated building located at 2606 Main Street in Great Bend. Thanks to a Barton County Facade grant, Magna Dry was able to enhance their curb appeal by updating signage, awnings, and refreshing their exterior paint.

Magna Dry, a family-owned and operated business led by Todd and LaDesha Clark, has been part of the Great Bend community since 1988. Specializing in professional cleaning services, Magna Dry offers carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, auto detailing, mold remediation, asbestos testing, insulation removal from attics, tile and grout cleaning, 24/7 water and fire restoration, and now, new disinfection services.

For those who prefer a DIY approach to cleaning, Magna Dry also provides access to their professional-grade cleaning products.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711138471443.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting ceremony to commemorate Magna Dry’s newly renovated building located at 2606 Main Street in Great Bend. Thanks to a Barton County Facade grant, Magna Dry was able to enhance their curb appeal by updating signage, awnings, and refreshing their exterior paint.Magna Dry, a family-owned and operated business led by Todd and LaDesha Clark, has been part of the Great Bend community since 1988. Specializing in professional cleaning services, Magna Dry offers carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, auto detailing, mold remediation, asbestos testing, insulation removal from attics, tile and grout cleaning, 24/7 water and fire restoration, and now, new disinfection services.For those who prefer a DIY approach to cleaning, Magna Dry also provides access to their professional-grade cleaning products.

Magna-Dry celebrates building renovation in Great Bend

From noon to 3 p.m. on April 8, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering the community an opportunity to witness a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party. While our location may not experience totality, viewers will still be treated to a rare and spectacular sight as the moon obscures 82.5 percent of the sun.

The event is not just about the eclipse. It's a fun-filled and educational afternoon for all ages. Attendees can look forward to engaging in games, science experiments, snacks, crafts, and safe viewing opportunities. We encourage guests to bring lawn chairs and lunches to make the most of this exciting day.

Safety is paramount, and attendees will be reminded not to stare directly at the sun to avoid damage to their retinas. Thanks to the generosity of the Great Bend Noon Lions Club, 300 eclipse glasses will be available for distribution to participants on the day of the event.

Activities will include various safe viewing methods, learning sessions about moon phases, accompanied by sweet treats, discussion about animal behavior during an eclipse, and crafting sessions to make UV bead bookmarks and eclipse necklaces as keepsakes.

Sponsors and students from the Barton Community College STEM Club will assist in leading activities.

Additionally, lawn games will be set up around the picnic shelter, and eclipse-related videos will be screened in the auditorium.

For more information, contact the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at 877-243-9268.

Location: Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680886783788.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsFrom noon to 3 p.m. on April 8, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering the community an opportunity to witness a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party. While our location may not experience totality, viewers will still be treated to a rare and spectacular sight as the moon obscures 82.5 percent of the sun.The event is not just about the eclipse. It's a fun-filled and educational afternoon for all ages. Attendees can look forward to engaging in games, science experiments, snacks, crafts, and safe viewing opportunities. We encourage guests to bring lawn chairs and lunches to make the most of this exciting day.Safety is paramount, and attendees will be reminded not to stare directly at the sun to avoid damage to their retinas. Thanks to the generosity of the Great Bend Noon Lions Club, 300 eclipse glasses will be available for distribution to participants on the day of the event.Activities will include various safe viewing methods, learning sessions about moon phases, accompanied by sweet treats, discussion about animal behavior during an eclipse, and crafting sessions to make UV bead bookmarks and eclipse necklaces as keepsakes.Sponsors and students from the Barton Community College STEM Club will assist in leading activities.Additionally, lawn games will be set up around the picnic shelter, and eclipse-related videos will be screened in the auditorium.For more information, contact the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at 877-243-9268.Event details:<ul>
 <li>Date: April 8</li><li>Time: 12-3 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Location: Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend.

Solar eclipse viewing party at Kansas Wetlands Education Center

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.7% in February. This is an increase from 2.6% in January and a decrease from 2.8% in February 2023, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Labor.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,600 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,800 over the month, while government decreased by 200.

The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 2 percent in December and 2.6 percent in January to 3.3 percent. Ellsworth and Pawnee County also saw a slight increase to 3 percent in February.

“Kansas employers added jobs in February, with total nonfarm job estimates increasing by 3,600,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “The largest gains were in construction and leisure and hospitality.

Both of these industries added more than 1,000 jobs.” Since February 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 13,000. This change is due to an increase of 8,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 4,300 government jobs.

<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for complete</a> Kansas labor market information for February&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711116592758.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.7% in February. This is an increase from 2.6% in January and a decrease from 2.8% in February 2023, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Labor.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,600 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,800 over the month, while government decreased by 200.The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 2 percent in December and 2.6 percent in January to 3.3 percent. Ellsworth and Pawnee County also saw a slight increase to 3 percent in February.“Kansas employers added jobs in February, with total nonfarm job estimates increasing by 3,600,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “The largest gains were in construction and leisure and hospitality.Both of these industries added more than 1,000 jobs.” Since February 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 13,000. This change is due to an increase of 8,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 4,300 government jobs.<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for complete</a> Kansas labor market information for February&nbsp;

Jobless rate in Barton County up slightly

The
drought monitor report as of March 19 is showing a continued slight increase to
abnormally dry by another three percent.&nbsp;
Barton and the surrounding area is unchanged. The six to ten-day outlook
(March 26 to 30) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of likely below normal temperatures
and near normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (March 28 to April 3) indicates 30 to 40% chance of
below normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; 

Meteorological spring arrived March 1st
and astronomical spring this week.&nbsp;
Living in Kansas we all know spring here is characterized by fairly
dramatic swing in temperatures and precipitation.&nbsp; However, over the last twenty or so years, as
the effects of climate change are increasing, you may have noticed our spring
weather seem more variable and extreme than in the past.&nbsp; Please keep in mind a warming planet doesn’t
necessarily mean there aren’t cold spells.&nbsp;
Producers of crops from alfalfa and wheat to fruit trees such as peaches
and apples have noticed the change.&nbsp;
Today, how has this more variable weather effect crop production?

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Plant
and animal adapt to the average climate.&nbsp;
We develop crop varieties and hybrids for that average.&nbsp; There is an important concept in biology
termed synchrony; essentially it refers to organisms/events that are timed to
occur together.&nbsp; For life, the timing of
events to occur together for the benefit of the organisms.&nbsp; The warming, more variable climate is leading
to more occurrences of asynchrony.&nbsp;
Asynchrony is where events normally timed or paired together are out of
phase.&nbsp; Synchrony leads to a stable
ecosystem, whether native or agricultural ecosystems.&nbsp; Asynchrony threatens that stability.&nbsp; Following are some examples for our area.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wheat
resumes growth after winter and is keyed to flower based upon two factors,
increasing daylength and warming temperatures.&nbsp;
And wheat fits our climate as typically the most useful precipitation
occurs from mid-March through June.&nbsp; This
is when wheat is heading into its reproductive phase.&nbsp; This year, precipitation wise is more “normal”
than the last several years, however, our rainfall has been later.&nbsp; Couple this with warmer late winter-early
spring temperatures, wheat is breaking dormancy earlier and into drier
conditions.&nbsp; And the warmer conditions
cause earlier development and leaves wheat more vulnerable to freeze damage
after jointing when the inevitable cold day or two occurs.&nbsp; Also, the abrupt change from the mid-70s to
below 20 degrees we just experienced also favors damage.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another
example, with warmer weather alfalfa is greening up earlier and insects such as
the alfalfa weevil larva and pea aphid are becoming active earlier.&nbsp; However, the insects that prey on them are
not and often necessitates more frequent spraying until natural enemies emerge.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fruit
trees are breaking dormancy and flowering earlier.&nbsp; Many of them, especially peach trees abort
their blossoms with a freeze and won’t produce fruit.&nbsp; Some like apples bloom before the pollinators
are out and really active and this can cause less fruit. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596200583759.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of March 19 is showing a continued slight increase to
abnormally dry by another three percent.&nbsp;
Barton and the surrounding area is unchanged. The six to ten-day outlook
(March 26 to 30) indicates a 50 to 60% chance of likely below normal temperatures
and near normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (March 28 to April 3) indicates 30 to 40% chance of
below normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; Meteorological spring arrived March 1st
and astronomical spring this week.&nbsp;
Living in Kansas we all know spring here is characterized by fairly
dramatic swing in temperatures and precipitation.&nbsp; However, over the last twenty or so years, as
the effects of climate change are increasing, you may have noticed our spring
weather seem more variable and extreme than in the past.&nbsp; Please keep in mind a warming planet doesn’t
necessarily mean there aren’t cold spells.&nbsp;
Producers of crops from alfalfa and wheat to fruit trees such as peaches
and apples have noticed the change.&nbsp;
Today, how has this more variable weather effect crop production?·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Plant
and animal adapt to the average climate.&nbsp;
We develop crop varieties and hybrids for that average.&nbsp; There is an important concept in biology
termed synchrony; essentially it refers to organisms/events that are timed to
occur together.&nbsp; For life, the timing of
events to occur together for the benefit of the organisms.&nbsp; The warming, more variable climate is leading
to more occurrences of asynchrony.&nbsp;
Asynchrony is where events normally timed or paired together are out of
phase.&nbsp; Synchrony leads to a stable
ecosystem, whether native or agricultural ecosystems.&nbsp; Asynchrony threatens that stability.&nbsp; Following are some examples for our area.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wheat
resumes growth after winter and is keyed to flower based upon two factors,
increasing daylength and warming temperatures.&nbsp;
And wheat fits our climate as typically the most useful precipitation
occurs from mid-March through June.&nbsp; This
is when wheat is heading into its reproductive phase.&nbsp; This year, precipitation wise is more “normal”
than the last several years, however, our rainfall has been later.&nbsp; Couple this with warmer late winter-early
spring temperatures, wheat is breaking dormancy earlier and into drier
conditions.&nbsp; And the warmer conditions
cause earlier development and leaves wheat more vulnerable to freeze damage
after jointing when the inevitable cold day or two occurs.&nbsp; Also, the abrupt change from the mid-70s to
below 20 degrees we just experienced also favors damage.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another
example, with warmer weather alfalfa is greening up earlier and insects such as
the alfalfa weevil larva and pea aphid are becoming active earlier.&nbsp; However, the insects that prey on them are
not and often necessitates more frequent spraying until natural enemies emerge.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fruit
trees are breaking dormancy and flowering earlier.&nbsp; Many of them, especially peach trees abort
their blossoms with a freeze and won’t produce fruit.&nbsp; Some like apples bloom before the pollinators
are out and really active and this can cause less fruit.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Spring Weather, Climate Change, and Crops

Central Kansas Christian Academy, a nonprofit Christian school in Great Bend, will be hosting its Annual Open House on Thursday, March 28 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. This is a come-and-go event for parents interested in exploring a private school with Christian-based academic program for their kindergarten through 8th Grade student(s). 

This event will take place at CKCA located at 215 McKinley Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711055918811.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Central Kansas Christian Academy, a nonprofit Christian school in Great Bend, will be hosting its Annual Open House on Thursday, March 28 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. This is a come-and-go event for parents interested in exploring a private school with Christian-based academic program for their kindergarten through 8th Grade student(s). This event will take place at CKCA located at 215 McKinley Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Christian school in Great Bend hosting open house

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Getting behind the wheel is one of the great passages into adulthood. USD 428 is again gearing up for its driver's education program this summer. District Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said enrollment will take place on Wednesday, April 3 at Great Bend High School.

"Our students won't hit the streets until June, but there's an important step," she said. "For driver's education, they need to attend an enrollment event on Wednesday, April 3. It's come-and-go from 4-6 p.m., but they'll take care of all the paperwork and make sure the students are ready to hit the road in June to learn those important skills."

Cost of enrollment is $150 and the district will accept cash, checks, or money orders. No enrollment will be accepted after Friday, May 10. Along with payment in full, participants need to bring the student's original birth certificate and their learner's permit if they already have one. Anyone with questions can contact Ana Zuniga at Great Bend High School by calling (620) 793-1521.

"She can give you all the details on what you need to sign up that day or if you happen to miss the event, but there is a hard deadline," Bauer said. "Students have to be 14 by June 3 to take driver's education."

Other information needed for enrollment includes approximate height and weight and the student's eye color.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710854290139.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGetting behind the wheel is one of the great passages into adulthood. USD 428 is again gearing up for its driver's education program this summer. District Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said enrollment will take place on Wednesday, April 3 at Great Bend High School."Our students won't hit the streets until June, but there's an important step," she said. "For driver's education, they need to attend an enrollment event on Wednesday, April 3. It's come-and-go from 4-6 p.m., but they'll take care of all the paperwork and make sure the students are ready to hit the road in June to learn those important skills."Cost of enrollment is $150 and the district will accept cash, checks, or money orders. No enrollment will be accepted after Friday, May 10. Along with payment in full, participants need to bring the student's original birth certificate and their learner's permit if they already have one. Anyone with questions can contact Ana Zuniga at Great Bend High School by calling (620) 793-1521."She can give you all the details on what you need to sign up that day or if you happen to miss the event, but there is a hard deadline," Bauer said. "Students have to be 14 by June 3 to take driver's education."Other information needed for enrollment includes approximate height and weight and the student's eye color.

Driver's ed enrollment at GBHS scheduled for April 3

Eldridge Fencing, a family-owned business that began its journey in a modest garage in 1994, proudly commemorated its 30th anniversary. The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Chamber Coffee event, including a Ribbon Cutting ceremony, Thursday, March 14, at Eldridge Fencing's location at 80 10th Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Over the years, they have grown from a small-scale operation into a widely recognized enterprise. In 2006, the establishment of Western Kansas Fence Supply (WK Fence Supply) further solidified Eldridge Fencing's position in the fencing industry, catering to over 70 fencing companies across three states.&nbsp;

Beyond fencing products, Eldridge Fencing boasts an Outdoor Cooking showroom featuring premium grill lines, including Traeger Wood Pellet Grills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711132563330.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSEldridge Fencing, a family-owned business that began its journey in a modest garage in 1994, proudly commemorated its 30th anniversary. The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Chamber Coffee event, including a Ribbon Cutting ceremony, Thursday, March 14, at Eldridge Fencing's location at 80 10th Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;Over the years, they have grown from a small-scale operation into a widely recognized enterprise. In 2006, the establishment of Western Kansas Fence Supply (WK Fence Supply) further solidified Eldridge Fencing's position in the fencing industry, catering to over 70 fencing companies across three states.&nbsp;Beyond fencing products, Eldridge Fencing boasts an Outdoor Cooking showroom featuring premium grill lines, including Traeger Wood Pellet Grills.

Eldridge Fencing celebrates 30 years in Great Bend

Great Bend Public Lands Director Scott Keeler started his department
update at the Great Bend City Council meeting last week by saying spring has
arrived and his crew is switching to different chores. 

Great Bend staff has
already transplanted 67 trees from the city’s nursery to be planted throughout
town. Keeler said the new trees and ongoing landscaping maintenance is needed
to keep recovering from a storm last summer.


"Pruning stuff from the storm is still going on," said Keeler. "We're right in the middle of spring cleanup. We're trying to get all the irrigated turf ready and get the irrigation systems turned on and tested. We have started fertilizing and spraying for weeds."

Two weeks ago, during most local school’s spring break, Keeler said the Great Bend
Brit Spaugh Zoo averaged between 300 and 500 visitors per day. So far this
year, the free zoo has seen more than 6,700 visitors.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680036483857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGreat Bend Public Lands Director Scott Keeler started his department
update at the Great Bend City Council meeting last week by saying spring has
arrived and his crew is switching to different chores. Great Bend staff has
already transplanted 67 trees from the city’s nursery to be planted throughout
town. Keeler said the new trees and ongoing landscaping maintenance is needed
to keep recovering from a storm last summer.
"Pruning stuff from the storm is still going on," said Keeler. "We're right in the middle of spring cleanup. We're trying to get all the irrigated turf ready and get the irrigation systems turned on and tested. We have started fertilizing and spraying for weeds."Two weeks ago, during most local school’s spring break, Keeler said the Great Bend
Brit Spaugh Zoo averaged between 300 and 500 visitors per day. So far this
year, the free zoo has seen more than 6,700 visitors.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

More than 6,700 visitors so far in 2024 at Great Bend zoo

USD 495 in Larned announced that Chad Erway was chosen as their district staff member of the month by their external voting panel and was recognized at this week's Board of Education meeting. 

The districted stated, "Chad's dedication and contributions to USD 495 have not gone unnoticed. From actively participating in the LHS building leadership team and the district leadership team to coaching the high school baseball team, Chad's positive impact extends far beyond the classroom. We're incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our district."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711058656699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 495 in Larned announced that Chad Erway was chosen as their district staff member of the month by their external voting panel and was recognized at this week's Board of Education meeting. The districted stated, "Chad's dedication and contributions to USD 495 have not gone unnoticed. From actively participating in the LHS building leadership team and the district leadership team to coaching the high school baseball team, Chad's positive impact extends far beyond the classroom. We're incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our district."&nbsp;

Erway chosen as Larned USD 495 staff member of the month

Hear this month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired March 21, 2024.

The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired March 21, 2024.<div><iframe title="Focus on Ellinwood show" 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=n5n24-15bb6a4-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 Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Focus on Ellinwood show

PAWNEE COUNTY –A Kansas man convicted of felony trafficking contraband into a correctional facility by an employee is not going to prison.

On Thursday, District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced 52-year-old Jessie Smith II to a suspended prison term of 32 months and placed him on 36 months probation with Court Services supervision, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

On August 13, 2023, during a random search of employees as they entered the Larned State Correctional Facility, Smith was found to be in possession of 63.0 grams of methamphetamine and 252 grams of tobacco. He was arrested without incident following an internal investigation by the Kansas Department of Corrections.

At the sentencing hearing, Smith apologized for his mistake and requested the Court place him on probation arguing that his mistake has cost him his nearly thirty year career in the security field, that he was pressured by individuals outside the facility to bring the contraband in, and that he did not pose a danger to the public. He also noted ongoing health concerns. 

The State argued the Court should deny the request for leniency as the defendant violated the position of trust he had been placed in, and that his actions put the staff and inmates in the facility at risk

LSCF Warden Timoth Easley testified at the sentencing hearing that his facility experienced only four inmates under the influence of intoxicants in the three months following Smith’s arrest, as compared to nearly ninety such incidents in the preceding three month period. Warden Easley further testified that the lack of intoxicant related incidents correlated to significantly fewer acts of violence within the facility.

In granting the defendant’s request for probation, Judge Gatterman noted the defendant’s behavior while on bond, and that the risk assessment tools utilized in the presentence investigation reflected that Smith did not pose a community safety risk

Smith has been on supervised bond release since August 17, 2023. He entered a Guilty plea on January 18, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692292868798.png" alt="Smith-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY –A Kansas man convicted of felony trafficking contraband into a correctional facility by an employee is not going to prison.On Thursday, District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced 52-year-old Jessie Smith II to a suspended prison term of 32 months and placed him on 36 months probation with Court Services supervision, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.On August 13, 2023, during a random search of employees as they entered the Larned State Correctional Facility, Smith was found to be in possession of 63.0 grams of methamphetamine and 252 grams of tobacco. He was arrested without incident following an internal investigation by the Kansas Department of Corrections.At the sentencing hearing, Smith apologized for his mistake and requested the Court place him on probation arguing that his mistake has cost him his nearly thirty year career in the security field, that he was pressured by individuals outside the facility to bring the contraband in, and that he did not pose a danger to the public. He also noted ongoing health concerns. The State argued the Court should deny the request for leniency as the defendant violated the position of trust he had been placed in, and that his actions put the staff and inmates in the facility at riskLSCF Warden Timoth Easley testified at the sentencing hearing that his facility experienced only four inmates under the influence of intoxicants in the three months following Smith’s arrest, as compared to nearly ninety such incidents in the preceding three month period. Warden Easley further testified that the lack of intoxicant related incidents correlated to significantly fewer acts of violence within the facility.In granting the defendant’s request for probation, Judge Gatterman noted the defendant’s behavior while on bond, and that the risk assessment tools utilized in the presentence investigation reflected that Smith did not pose a community safety riskSmith has been on supervised bond release since August 17, 2023. He entered a Guilty plea on January 18, 2024.

Employee apologized for bringing drugs into Larned Correctional Facility

The 10th Street Eyecare Center, located at 2601 10th Street in Great Bend,&nbsp; recently implemented a new cutting-edge testing technology called N3 to help patients identify whether they need corrective lenses for extended use of digital screens. N3 is a unique testing experience, where the patient wears a virtual reality-style headset to complete a series of tests while the headset tracks eye movement and the eye’s ability to focus at different distances.

“The demand on our eyes is greater than ever with people using screens more and more at work and in their free time,” says Dr. Chad Premer with The 10th Street Eyecare Center. “This new test lets patients learn if they have an eye misalignment, which can be the cause of eye strain, frontal headaches, neck and shoulder pain, light sensitivity, dry eye, and discomfort with computer or other close-up tasks.”

The 360-degree patient experience while using the N3 headset delivers incredible accuracy in measurement, down to a fraction of a prism diopter, providing the most optimal information for determining if correction is needed. For patients with a misalignment, a special corrective lens known as Neurolens can be recommended to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Neurolens is a unique, patented lens that uses a contoured prism to adjust the amount of correction as your eye looks downward through the lens.

“Normal lenses are designed to help you see better, and Neurolens does that too. But what sets Neurolens apart is that it’s designed to help you feel better as well,” Dr. Premer says. “The N3 testing technology is recommended for anyone who uses screens more than a couple hours per day, and is available at no charge to our patients during their routine eye examination.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711057384193.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe 10th Street Eyecare Center, located at 2601 10th Street in Great Bend,&nbsp; recently implemented a new cutting-edge testing technology called N3 to help patients identify whether they need corrective lenses for extended use of digital screens. N3 is a unique testing experience, where the patient wears a virtual reality-style headset to complete a series of tests while the headset tracks eye movement and the eye’s ability to focus at different distances.“The demand on our eyes is greater than ever with people using screens more and more at work and in their free time,” says Dr. Chad Premer with The 10th Street Eyecare Center. “This new test lets patients learn if they have an eye misalignment, which can be the cause of eye strain, frontal headaches, neck and shoulder pain, light sensitivity, dry eye, and discomfort with computer or other close-up tasks.”The 360-degree patient experience while using the N3 headset delivers incredible accuracy in measurement, down to a fraction of a prism diopter, providing the most optimal information for determining if correction is needed. For patients with a misalignment, a special corrective lens known as Neurolens can be recommended to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Neurolens is a unique, patented lens that uses a contoured prism to adjust the amount of correction as your eye looks downward through the lens.“Normal lenses are designed to help you see better, and Neurolens does that too. But what sets Neurolens apart is that it’s designed to help you feel better as well,” Dr. Premer says. “The N3 testing technology is recommended for anyone who uses screens more than a couple hours per day, and is available at no charge to our patients during their routine eye examination.”

The 10th Street Eyecare Center now offering Neurolens technology

Not only do local artists get a chance to showcase their artwork during Great
Bend’s Art &amp; Wine Walk, but it also brings in more foot traffic to downtown
businesses. The 10th annual event is scheduled for May 3 to allow participating stores to display the artist’s work. 

Great Bend
Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Amanda Gaddis said the city is would love to see more artwork.


"We are still looking for artists so we can assign them to specific stores," said Gaddis. "You can get a form at the city website at greatbendks.net."

Two city employees will participate in this year’s Art &amp; Wine Walk. Police
Chief Steve Haulmark will display his work, and Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick will
display photos of the zoo’s animals.


During the Art and Wine Walk, people travel to the participating stores, taste
food and wine and experience the variety of art. If anyone is interested in participating they can also email chayes@greatbendks.net. &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708546555625.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostNot only do local artists get a chance to showcase their artwork during Great
Bend’s Art &amp; Wine Walk, but it also brings in more foot traffic to downtown
businesses. The 10th annual event is scheduled for May 3 to allow participating stores to display the artist’s work. Great Bend
Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Amanda Gaddis said the city is would love to see more artwork.
"We are still looking for artists so we can assign them to specific stores," said Gaddis. "You can get a form at the city website at greatbendks.net."Two city employees will participate in this year’s Art &amp; Wine Walk. Police
Chief Steve Haulmark will display his work, and Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick will
display photos of the zoo’s animals.
During the Art and Wine Walk, people travel to the participating stores, taste
food and wine and experience the variety of art. If anyone is interested in participating they can also email chayes@greatbendks.net. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Local artists still needed for Great Bend’s Art & Wine Walk

A Medicaid expansion information meeting will be held this Saturday, March 23 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Larned Chamber of Commerce, Jordaan Room, south door, 502 Broadway.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711057640246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Medicaid expansion information meeting will be held this Saturday, March 23 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Larned Chamber of Commerce, Jordaan Room, south door, 502 Broadway.&nbsp;

A Medicaid expansion info meeting in Larned today

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/039c199a-dfc4-408a-9d4a-f3175b50969f">Feline plays the hero in Hoisington house fire</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/8842b696-029b-4de2-bfa6-07bad2d5b45e">Barton Commission hears solar reg updates; vote expected April 2</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fdd87f3e-9d33-46cd-824c-7b444e7db0da">Great Bend purchases $352,000 ambulance, now they wait</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710773704491.jpeg" alt="A woman living on East First Street in Hoisington credited her cat for waking her up when a fire started inside the residence March 15, 2024." />
 <figcaption>A woman living on East First Street in Hoisington credited her cat for waking her up when a fire started inside the residence March 15, 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/evqx41tv/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/039c199a-dfc4-408a-9d4a-f3175b50969f">Feline plays the hero in Hoisington house fire</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/8842b696-029b-4de2-bfa6-07bad2d5b45e">Barton Commission hears solar reg updates; vote expected April 2</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fdd87f3e-9d33-46cd-824c-7b444e7db0da">Great Bend purchases $352,000 ambulance, now they wait</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

Spa Health Club, Town &amp; Country Racquet Club, or Club 1 Fitness. Before personal fitness was a trend, Martin Casey had a vision that it should be. In 1974, he purchased the girls' high school located adjacent to Dominican Sisters of Peace on Broadway in Great Bend. Fifty years later, his daughter, Caron Zager, still owns the business.

"This is our community," she said. "I wouldn't want a franchise to come in and ever take this over. I like the family feel, the community. My dad, that's how he felt about Great Bend, that it was the most wonderful place. We consider everyone our family here. It's not just you're a member or a number. We like to think of you as family and take good care of you."

Much has changed from those first days in 1974. After purchasing the facility, Casey immediately covered the old wood floor with red carpet and filled the building with shiny chrome equipment. Then named Spa Health Club, he added columns and statues to enhance the pool area.

"In the pool area, there was a Greek god that stood by the whirlpool and there were some that stood by the columns," Zager said. "There was a statue under each one. It was supposed to be serene and that kind of an atmosphere."

For the first four years, the Spa had just one locker room. That meant men and women had access to the facility on different days. Aerobics classes were conducted out in the open. Personal fitness had not yet entered the American lexicon 50 years ago.

"We struggled in the 70s," Zager said. "There was an old lounge area with machines and games and you could smoke in there. They'd be in there smoking, then they'd come out and get on a treadmill. We had beer. Fitness was not big until the 1980s, then it started coming around."

All the while, Casey was corresponding with a fitness buff named "Mr. Atlas," asking questions that were answered via letters the family found years later.&nbsp; Casey had immigrated to the United States from Ireland with his brother at the age of 21. In 1977, the duo came up with ideas for an expansion. 

"His brother that came over from Ireland with him lived back east and tennis and racquetball were really big," said Zager, "so in 1977, dad added the racquetball and tennis courts and that's when he changed the name to Town &amp; Country Racquet Club."

The unique skylights in the tennis area provided natural lighting and reduced energy costs. The bodybuilding area in the back of the facility was first a viewing area for the tennis courts. That changed to a weightlifting room as bodybuilding gained steam in the 1980s. The dumbbell now sitting near the tennis courts and the old back massagers are the final remnants of the original 1974 facility.

Changes naturally came. The aerobics room was built around 1995 using wood flooring first installed under the tennis courts. Casey also turned the reigns over to his son, Kevin.

Now, the changes come more frequently. Gone are the old chrome machines, replaced with sleek machines that maximize what they are designed to do.

"There's a machine for every body part now," said Chris Berger, general manager at Club 1 Fitness. "Then, it was like one of those jungle gyms you put in your basement. That's where everything has grown as far as equipment. We're lucky enough to have enough room for that kind of stuff."

Nutrition has also changed. Expensive and difficult-to-digest proteins have been replaced by food and drink for all to enjoy.

"We have the whole Refuel Zone up front, so that's always been booming," said Berger. "We've added energy teas now, which are a big thing. A lot of people come in and get that because they want the caffeine. Pre-workouts, post-workouts, supplements have always been a big part of this."

The facility went through a big renovation in 2008, and another in 2012. Staff recently changed the color scheme and did some rebranding in 2022.

The business survived the COVID-19 pandemic, a time that shut down gyms across the country and kickstarted a new wave of home workouts. Part of that survival is adapting to an ever-changing fitness landscape. 

"It changes about every six months, so there's always something new coming out," Berger said. "There's a new machine, or new this or that. There's always someone wanting a new machine because they saw something in a magazine."

The facility used to offer separate memberships for different features of the building. Now, everything is included in one price. Fitness options include weights, cycling, Yoga, Zoomba, step aerobics, TRX classes, aquacise classes, TKO boxing, and a weight-loss competition called Battle of the Bulge. The tennis courts double as pickleball courts.

The business is even expanding outside of fitness. Club 1 Fitness is getting ready to host its third annual car show to benefit Kans for Kids. The show has grown quickly and Berger is looking for another venue to fit all the cars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711027382017.jpeg" alt="Club 1 Fitness on Broadway Ave. in Great Bend, recently celebrated a ribbon cutting for 50 years of business in the community." />
 <figcaption>Club 1 Fitness on Broadway Ave. in Great Bend, recently celebrated a ribbon cutting for 50 years of business in the community.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSpa Health Club, Town &amp; Country Racquet Club, or Club 1 Fitness. Before personal fitness was a trend, Martin Casey had a vision that it should be. In 1974, he purchased the girls' high school located adjacent to Dominican Sisters of Peace on Broadway in Great Bend. Fifty years later, his daughter, Caron Zager, still owns the business."This is our community," she said. "I wouldn't want a franchise to come in and ever take this over. I like the family feel, the community. My dad, that's how he felt about Great Bend, that it was the most wonderful place. We consider everyone our family here. It's not just you're a member or a number. We like to think of you as family and take good care of you."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711115290498.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Much has changed from those first days in 1974. After purchasing the facility, Casey immediately covered the old wood floor with red carpet and filled the building with shiny chrome equipment. Then named Spa Health Club, he added columns and statues to enhance the pool area."In the pool area, there was a Greek god that stood by the whirlpool and there were some that stood by the columns," Zager said. "There was a statue under each one. It was supposed to be serene and that kind of an atmosphere."For the first four years, the Spa had just one locker room. That meant men and women had access to the facility on different days. Aerobics classes were conducted out in the open. Personal fitness had not yet entered the American lexicon 50 years ago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711115309077.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We struggled in the 70s," Zager said. "There was an old lounge area with machines and games and you could smoke in there. They'd be in there smoking, then they'd come out and get on a treadmill. We had beer. Fitness was not big until the 1980s, then it started coming around."All the while, Casey was corresponding with a fitness buff named "Mr. Atlas," asking questions that were answered via letters the family found years later.&nbsp; Casey had immigrated to the United States from Ireland with his brother at the age of 21. In 1977, the duo came up with ideas for an expansion. "His brother that came over from Ireland with him lived back east and tennis and racquetball were really big," said Zager, "so in 1977, dad added the racquetball and tennis courts and that's when he changed the name to Town &amp; Country Racquet Club."The unique skylights in the tennis area provided natural lighting and reduced energy costs. The bodybuilding area in the back of the facility was first a viewing area for the tennis courts. That changed to a weightlifting room as bodybuilding gained steam in the 1980s. The dumbbell now sitting near the tennis courts and the old back massagers are the final remnants of the original 1974 facility.Changes naturally came. The aerobics room was built around 1995 using wood flooring first installed under the tennis courts. Casey also turned the reigns over to his son, Kevin.Now, the changes come more frequently. Gone are the old chrome machines, replaced with sleek machines that maximize what they are designed to do."There's a machine for every body part now," said Chris Berger, general manager at Club 1 Fitness. "Then, it was like one of those jungle gyms you put in your basement. That's where everything has grown as far as equipment. We're lucky enough to have enough room for that kind of stuff."Nutrition has also changed. Expensive and difficult-to-digest proteins have been replaced by food and drink for all to enjoy."We have the whole Refuel Zone up front, so that's always been booming," said Berger. "We've added energy teas now, which are a big thing. A lot of people come in and get that because they want the caffeine. Pre-workouts, post-workouts, supplements have always been a big part of this."The facility went through a big renovation in 2008, and another in 2012. Staff recently changed the color scheme and did some rebranding in 2022.The business survived the COVID-19 pandemic, a time that shut down gyms across the country and kickstarted a new wave of home workouts. Part of that survival is adapting to an ever-changing fitness landscape. "It changes about every six months, so there's always something new coming out," Berger said. "There's a new machine, or new this or that. There's always someone wanting a new machine because they saw something in a magazine."The facility used to offer separate memberships for different features of the building. Now, everything is included in one price. Fitness options include weights, cycling, Yoga, Zoomba, step aerobics, TRX classes, aquacise classes, TKO boxing, and a weight-loss competition called Battle of the Bulge. The tennis courts double as pickleball courts.The business is even expanding outside of fitness. Club 1 Fitness is getting ready to host its third annual car show to benefit Kans for Kids. The show has grown quickly and Berger is looking for another venue to fit all the cars.

Club 1 Fitness celebrating 50 years of health in Great Bend

Nearly two weeks ago, the City of Great Bend informed citizens that the
intersection of 32nd Street and Williams Street would be closed for
a few weeks. City crews are excavating and replacing flowline and surrounding
concrete. 

Public Works Director Jason Cauley said crews this week were pouring
concrete around the sanitary sewer.


"They will also pour in the gutters on each wing as it comes into that radius," said Cauley. "Once the concrete is poured, then we'll start pouring the flowline and get that intersection done."

Cauley said he hopes to have the intersection construction to be finished in the
next couple of weeks to allow traffic to resume.
The city reminded citizens to be attentive while traveling through the area. 

If
you have questions or concerns, contact Street Supervisor Tony Bronson at 620-793-4150 or abronson@greatbendks.net.

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostNearly two weeks ago, the City of Great Bend informed citizens that the
intersection of 32nd Street and Williams Street would be closed for
a few weeks. City crews are excavating and replacing flowline and surrounding
concrete. Public Works Director Jason Cauley said crews this week were pouring
concrete around the sanitary sewer.
"They will also pour in the gutters on each wing as it comes into that radius," said Cauley. "Once the concrete is poured, then we'll start pouring the flowline and get that intersection done."Cauley said he hopes to have the intersection construction to be finished in the
next couple of weeks to allow traffic to resume.
The city reminded citizens to be attentive while traveling through the area. If
you have questions or concerns, contact Street Supervisor Tony Bronson at 620-793-4150 or abronson@greatbendks.net.

Road work continues at 32nd & Williams in Great Bend

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you – the renowned social media influencer, Vanessa Whiteside, is soon scheduled to visit our community, where she will be dining, exploring, and shopping! 

Vanessa is a social media influencer of "One Delightful Life," and Ellsworth County, Lincoln County, and Lucas have partnered with her to provide some pre-Big Kansas Road Trip excitement on her social media and blogging sites. This is an excellent opportunity to provide her with the hometown charm and hospitality that we do best! 

If you do not follow her on social media, please consider doing so now here:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OneDelightfulLife?__cft__[0]=AZWGPuz8BOgeqkhpqFzq79qHhIUmL4CnbaNSYK6yiMLa-JZU37jq2nss3pRoYm-BTYDRLEIl7AwTemSEgZvctUXHmQSuytsyv6NKTGzI6SnjJpT7TMjOyOoXEIdfUgZLWXavV5ODcEgU_dhGaISFScJd4GcVru6pNUsQPIcbu9zHguqW9ATTepsJWJW4sJ6INdhYmyeKcklho-HemPqNq-HR&amp;__tn__=-]K-R"> One Delightful Lif</a>e, as the content collected from this visit will be used as a promo for the upcoming Big Kansas Road Trip BUT will be recycled for additional promotions in the future.

There is long-standing benefit to the investment Grow Ellsworth County is making through this partnership. Vanessa Whiteside, with her substantial online following and influence across various social media platforms, presents an exceptional opportunity for our community and your businesses. Her visit not only shines a spotlight on our town but also offers a unique chance for exposure and promotion.

Let's work together to make her visit a memorable and mutually beneficial experience for our community and your business. Vanessa will be here March 22-23 and will be visiting a variety of shops, restaurants, attractions, and locations throughout Ellsworth County, Lincoln County, and Lucas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711057125179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Grow Ellsworth County...We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you – the renowned social media influencer, Vanessa Whiteside, is soon scheduled to visit our community, where she will be dining, exploring, and shopping! Vanessa is a social media influencer of "One Delightful Life," and Ellsworth County, Lincoln County, and Lucas have partnered with her to provide some pre-Big Kansas Road Trip excitement on her social media and blogging sites. This is an excellent opportunity to provide her with the hometown charm and hospitality that we do best! If you do not follow her on social media, please consider doing so now here:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OneDelightfulLife?__cft__[0]=AZWGPuz8BOgeqkhpqFzq79qHhIUmL4CnbaNSYK6yiMLa-JZU37jq2nss3pRoYm-BTYDRLEIl7AwTemSEgZvctUXHmQSuytsyv6NKTGzI6SnjJpT7TMjOyOoXEIdfUgZLWXavV5ODcEgU_dhGaISFScJd4GcVru6pNUsQPIcbu9zHguqW9ATTepsJWJW4sJ6INdhYmyeKcklho-HemPqNq-HR&amp;__tn__=-]K-R"> One Delightful Lif</a>e, as the content collected from this visit will be used as a promo for the upcoming Big Kansas Road Trip BUT will be recycled for additional promotions in the future. There is long-standing benefit to the investment Grow Ellsworth County is making through this partnership. Vanessa Whiteside, with her substantial online following and influence across various social media platforms, presents an exceptional opportunity for our community and your businesses. Her visit not only shines a spotlight on our town but also offers a unique chance for exposure and promotion.Let's work together to make her visit a memorable and mutually beneficial experience for our community and your business. Vanessa will be here March 22-23 and will be visiting a variety of shops, restaurants, attractions, and locations throughout Ellsworth County, Lincoln County, and Lucas.&nbsp;

Ellsworth Co. welcomes social media influencer this weekend

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Sternberg Museum of Natural History&nbsp;&nbsp;Manager of Visitor Services,&nbsp;Brad Penka.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TjnI8ORX2mg?si=a9fyngG5bnWU1USs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Sternberg Museum of Natural History&nbsp;&nbsp;Manager of Visitor Services,&nbsp;Brad Penka.

🎤Forward Ever: Sternberg Museum Manager Brad Penka

Fresh Start Woodworks, a new manufacturing venture based in Great Bend, celebrated its grand opening with a Chamber Coffee and ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by sister company Just In Time Remodeling. Owned by Justin Mawhirter, both businesses are located at 135 SW 30 Ave in Great Bend, located just one mile west of town, off Highway 56.

Fresh Start Woodworks, under the leadership of Justin Mawhirter, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received by the community for Just In Time Remodeling, which was established in 2017.&nbsp;

Fresh Start Woodworks is not just a woodworking enterprise; it is a beacon of hope with a two-fold mission. The company aims to deliver the highest quality cabinetry to contractors and industry dealers while simultaneously providing mentorship and job training opportunities for individuals seeking a fresh start after overcoming addiction or other life-controlling issues.

“Fresh Start Woodworks is not just about creating exceptional cabinetry; it’s about building a community that supports each other through craftsmanship and compassion,” said Mawhirter.

Dennis Morrison, Fresh Start Woodworks’ Production Lead, brings a wealth of experience to the team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711051140613.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFresh Start Woodworks, a new manufacturing venture based in Great Bend, celebrated its grand opening with a Chamber Coffee and ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by sister company Just In Time Remodeling. Owned by Justin Mawhirter, both businesses are located at 135 SW 30 Ave in Great Bend, located just one mile west of town, off Highway 56.Fresh Start Woodworks, under the leadership of Justin Mawhirter, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received by the community for Just In Time Remodeling, which was established in 2017.&nbsp;Fresh Start Woodworks is not just a woodworking enterprise; it is a beacon of hope with a two-fold mission. The company aims to deliver the highest quality cabinetry to contractors and industry dealers while simultaneously providing mentorship and job training opportunities for individuals seeking a fresh start after overcoming addiction or other life-controlling issues.“Fresh Start Woodworks is not just about creating exceptional cabinetry; it’s about building a community that supports each other through craftsmanship and compassion,” said Mawhirter.Dennis Morrison, Fresh Start Woodworks’ Production Lead, brings a wealth of experience to the team.

Ribbon cutting held for Great Bend woodworking business

As wheat fields green up across Kansas, a pair of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WVQHuB4PZCaVw_hpbPlpHHxiZD4VTTubu1JoCbOpzUh7lLpmk6Lscd_H-ktozaL_X72J5_PqxQ20L6fgp89uuj3ZX_cbSbXdhQDESMCDjrM2gqlfvZk8rIiGjVyvFm7vlageFfSdPHCG&amp;c=Qi68l5tvXfEYC5Gzw3ypKFhodGQuYp9HD47OR3GcTA4RN1hlAHFbww==&amp;ch=QJy-0aZFKndAm36Hc_ehx7NMekFrPnUU13Wt9aG99IyRlycgZ0PmCw==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx</a>&nbsp;seminars in early March delivered expert advice to growers on how to unlock the genetic potential of wheat varieties for their specific geographies and operations and use research-informed methods to produce high-yielding and high-quality wheat.&nbsp;

“Wheat Rx is the Kansas farmer’s prescription for combining best management practices and variety selection for the economical and sustainable production of high-quality winter wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat. “Informed by the research investments made by Kansas wheat producers through the Kansas Wheat Commission, these seminars are just what the doctor ordered for learning how to maximize profitability through variety selection and practices on the ground.”&nbsp;

The March seminars took place in Dodge City and Wichita. Presenters included a rundown of leading experts from Kansas State University that discussed cover crops and soil health, soil fertility, fungicides and the economics of wheat production.&nbsp;

Gregg Ibendhal and Daniel O’Brien, professors in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, shared the trends and predictions for wheat profitability in Kansas. They noted that machinery costs are still the largest expense category for growers, although that category is getting smaller. It’s no surprise that fertilizer expenses have increased greatly along with interest rates but explained the futures markets have not fully captured the risk of the continued Russian/Ukraine war. They also discussed the current and future supply and demand situation for the world’s major wheat importers and exporters.&nbsp;

Outside of the kernels in the bin, Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State associate professor of wheat and forage production, discussed the agronomic, ecological and economic benefits of diversifying crop rotations with wheat. He walked through the impacts of simplified crop rotations due to a steep reduction in wheat acreage to food security and biodiversity. Conversely, after a comprehensive review of more than 300 peer-reviewed studies, his team outlined the benefits of adding wheat back into crop rotations, including forage production, dual-purpose use for grazing, weed control, interruption of pest population cycles and other benefits.&nbsp;

Speaking of disease and pest management, Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State assistant professor of plant pathology, presented on the management of the major wheat diseases in Kansas. Statewide, diseases like stripe rust, Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV), and scab are responsible for the most yield lost from 2013-2023. She walked through her research into disease management, including optimal timing of applications, the impact of dual applications, the influence of plant population and how well fungicides work in combination with variety resistance.&nbsp;

Moving from above to below ground level, Carlos Pires, a K-State agronomy post-doctoral student, discussed methods to improve soil health. He emphasized the benefits of regenerative ag practices like minimizing disturbance through no-till or minimum-till, maximizing soil cover through practices like cover crops, maximizing biodiversity through a mix of cash and cover crop or an integrated crop-livestock system and maximizing continuous living roots by reducing fallow and increasing cover cropping. He concluded that integrating cover crops into crop rotation will increase soil carbon, the amount of microbes, biological activity and aggregation to retain water, recognizing that these practices take financial investments and time.&nbsp;

The seminar ended with a discussion of fertility management specific to wheat by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State professor and soil fertility specialist. He discussed the most important nutrients to manage for wheat, including nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, chloride and lime (for low pH soils). He also walked through how growers can manage both yield and quality, including nitrogen volatilization and placement and the interaction of protein with nitrogen management.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As wheat fields green up across Kansas, a pair of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WVQHuB4PZCaVw_hpbPlpHHxiZD4VTTubu1JoCbOpzUh7lLpmk6Lscd_H-ktozaL_X72J5_PqxQ20L6fgp89uuj3ZX_cbSbXdhQDESMCDjrM2gqlfvZk8rIiGjVyvFm7vlageFfSdPHCG&amp;c=Qi68l5tvXfEYC5Gzw3ypKFhodGQuYp9HD47OR3GcTA4RN1hlAHFbww==&amp;ch=QJy-0aZFKndAm36Hc_ehx7NMekFrPnUU13Wt9aG99IyRlycgZ0PmCw==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx</a>&nbsp;seminars in early March delivered expert advice to growers on how to unlock the genetic potential of wheat varieties for their specific geographies and operations and use research-informed methods to produce high-yielding and high-quality wheat.&nbsp;“Wheat Rx is the Kansas farmer’s prescription for combining best management practices and variety selection for the economical and sustainable production of high-quality winter wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat. “Informed by the research investments made by Kansas wheat producers through the Kansas Wheat Commission, these seminars are just what the doctor ordered for learning how to maximize profitability through variety selection and practices on the ground.”&nbsp;The March seminars took place in Dodge City and Wichita. Presenters included a rundown of leading experts from Kansas State University that discussed cover crops and soil health, soil fertility, fungicides and the economics of wheat production.&nbsp;Gregg Ibendhal and Daniel O’Brien, professors in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, shared the trends and predictions for wheat profitability in Kansas. They noted that machinery costs are still the largest expense category for growers, although that category is getting smaller. It’s no surprise that fertilizer expenses have increased greatly along with interest rates but explained the futures markets have not fully captured the risk of the continued Russian/Ukraine war. They also discussed the current and future supply and demand situation for the world’s major wheat importers and exporters.&nbsp;Outside of the kernels in the bin, Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State associate professor of wheat and forage production, discussed the agronomic, ecological and economic benefits of diversifying crop rotations with wheat. He walked through the impacts of simplified crop rotations due to a steep reduction in wheat acreage to food security and biodiversity. Conversely, after a comprehensive review of more than 300 peer-reviewed studies, his team outlined the benefits of adding wheat back into crop rotations, including forage production, dual-purpose use for grazing, weed control, interruption of pest population cycles and other benefits.&nbsp;Speaking of disease and pest management, Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State assistant professor of plant pathology, presented on the management of the major wheat diseases in Kansas. Statewide, diseases like stripe rust, Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV), and scab are responsible for the most yield lost from 2013-2023. She walked through her research into disease management, including optimal timing of applications, the impact of dual applications, the influence of plant population and how well fungicides work in combination with variety resistance.&nbsp;Moving from above to below ground level, Carlos Pires, a K-State agronomy post-doctoral student, discussed methods to improve soil health. He emphasized the benefits of regenerative ag practices like minimizing disturbance through no-till or minimum-till, maximizing soil cover through practices like cover crops, maximizing biodiversity through a mix of cash and cover crop or an integrated crop-livestock system and maximizing continuous living roots by reducing fallow and increasing cover cropping. He concluded that integrating cover crops into crop rotation will increase soil carbon, the amount of microbes, biological activity and aggregation to retain water, recognizing that these practices take financial investments and time.&nbsp;The seminar ended with a discussion of fertility management specific to wheat by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State professor and soil fertility specialist. He discussed the most important nutrients to manage for wheat, including nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, chloride and lime (for low pH soils). He also walked through how growers can manage both yield and quality, including nitrogen volatilization and placement and the interaction of protein with nitrogen management.&nbsp;The seminars are part of Wheat Rx, a partnership between Kansas Wheat and K-State Research and Extension to disseminate the latest research recommendations for high-yielding and high-quality wheat to Kansas wheat farmers. This effort includes a series of extension publications and educational outreach like the March seminars.“We’ve learned a lot from the research funded by Kansas wheat farmers on the impact of variety selection and management practices on yield and quality come harvest,” Harries said. “Wheat Rx is our outreach effort to share those results with growers. We can’t control the weather, but these practices and tools are ones farmers can use to make an appreciable difference in their wheat crop.”&nbsp;Miss the Wheat Rx seminars? Plan to attend the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPV1tOD9-tvjhXc7UCWfKwFsk1BUllQSnQBdiYDTPo_qO_O819flws1SPFzi-jrLAiVZdamgDCKD1hQIrONIqbnzoAiCOVLp4PE_20z1bbhxGQ9DjRD7VavB7kkVQaPkxYk5J4Qs6LXgchIO7QrH3EbG7700AbUf-CH&amp;c=Qi68l5tvXfEYC5Gzw3ypKFhodGQuYp9HD47OR3GcTA4RN1hlAHFbww==&amp;ch=QJy-0aZFKndAm36Hc_ehx7NMekFrPnUU13Wt9aG99IyRlycgZ0PmCw==" target="_blank">Soil Health and Cropping System Sustainability Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Solomon/Gypsum on April 5 or the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPVHbcMdpGt_PfILorKGvCcVgqYnuylRIcMJkUWWPI8A_lPjHdHs791tLvqPulRxy7RGdPlDDQQpiLg0YG8vy4WhiI3dUXtJgkMW04JkaaL1wk=&amp;c=Qi68l5tvXfEYC5Gzw3ypKFhodGQuYp9HD47OR3GcTA4RN1hlAHFbww==&amp;ch=QJy-0aZFKndAm36Hc_ehx7NMekFrPnUU13Wt9aG99IyRlycgZ0PmCw==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx Seminar and Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Phillipsburg on May 23. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WdNKQghN3m7X5BOZSh-lHIw0fikU42xjdKVC3EmEJLpX4mA2YDc35dE5PT8EDY7O6lQDyud1fWQ1UnofkSpPggcGnpGNT4lngsdK-0olKig5&amp;c=Qi68l5tvXfEYC5Gzw3ypKFhodGQuYp9HD47OR3GcTA4RN1hlAHFbww==&amp;ch=QJy-0aZFKndAm36Hc_ehx7NMekFrPnUU13Wt9aG99IyRlycgZ0PmCw==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/events</a>.&nbsp;Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat