STAFFORD COUNTY—Crews were called to the report of a brush fire in the 1000 block of NE 190th Street in Stafford County on Monday, according to a social media report.&nbsp; Fire crews were on scene for approximately four and a half hours.

Cause of the fire was found to be a tree struck by lightning several days ago that finally fell, lighting the field on fire.

"We can't express enough how important it is that different Departments work together," the department said on Facebook. "This is just another example of the citizens of all counties involved benefiting by a good working relationship with neighboring departments."

Stations that responded were Hudson, Seward, Radium and Stafford stations. Ellinwood Fire Department was requested for mutual aid. Rice County Fire Department also assisted

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710234542518.jpeg" alt="Ellinwood Fire assists on a brush fire in Stafford County on Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo Courtesy Ellinwood Fire Department." />
 <figcaption>Ellinwood Fire assists on a brush fire in Stafford County on Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo Courtesy Ellinwood Fire Department.</figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY—Crews were called to the report of a brush fire in the 1000 block of NE 190th Street in Stafford County on Monday, according to a social media report.&nbsp; Fire crews were on scene for approximately four and a half hours.Cause of the fire was found to be a tree struck by lightning several days ago that finally fell, lighting the field on fire."We can't express enough how important it is that different Departments work together," the department said on Facebook. "This is just another example of the citizens of all counties involved benefiting by a good working relationship with neighboring departments."Stations that responded were Hudson, Seward, Radium and Stafford stations. Ellinwood Fire Department was requested for mutual aid. Rice County Fire Department also assisted

Tree struck by lightning days ago finally fell, starting grass fire

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q8Xdox. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting March 12 - 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the March 5, 2024, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of February 27, 2024, and ending March 12, 2024.

III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;A. EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION: Service Awards: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Judith Castro, Employee Engagement Committee President, will present details. Barton County employees are recognized for continuous service for five, ten, fifteen, twenty and other years. The County Commission will recognize employees for their service.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPRAISER’S OFFICE: Valuation Update: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details. By March 1 of each year, the Appraiser’s Office is to have completed valuation of property and mailed notices to the public per K.S.A 79-1460. The Commission will receive a report on the mailing of notices of valuation and valuation trends.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. REQUEST FOR QUOTE: Coordination and Execution of Moving County Offices from Temporary Locations to the Barton County Courthouse: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. In anticipation of the HVAC project ending, Barton County released a Request for Quotes in early February for moving services. The successful vendor will pack, haul and install office furniture and equipment currently located at 1500 Kansas, 1709 Main and 1520 Main, in the City of Great Bend, to the Barton County Courthouse. Three quotes were received. Monies have been included in the General Fund for this anticipated HVAC expense.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director, Great Bend Economic Development.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Levi Morris, County Attorney, is scheduled for March 14, 2024.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693230488223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q8Xdox. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting March 12 - 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the March 5, 2024, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of February 27, 2024, and ending March 12, 2024.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;A. EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION: Service Awards: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Judith Castro, Employee Engagement Committee President, will present details. Barton County employees are recognized for continuous service for five, ten, fifteen, twenty and other years. The County Commission will recognize employees for their service.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPRAISER’S OFFICE: Valuation Update: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details. By March 1 of each year, the Appraiser’s Office is to have completed valuation of property and mailed notices to the public per K.S.A 79-1460. The Commission will receive a report on the mailing of notices of valuation and valuation trends.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. REQUEST FOR QUOTE: Coordination and Execution of Moving County Offices from Temporary Locations to the Barton County Courthouse: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. In anticipation of the HVAC project ending, Barton County released a Request for Quotes in early February for moving services. The successful vendor will pack, haul and install office furniture and equipment currently located at 1500 Kansas, 1709 Main and 1520 Main, in the City of Great Bend, to the Barton County Courthouse. Three quotes were received. Monies have been included in the General Fund for this anticipated HVAC expense.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director, Great Bend Economic Development.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Levi Morris, County Attorney, is scheduled for March 14, 2024.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2024.VII. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (3/12)

Many people, for a variety of reasons, such as arthritis or other painful conditions, don’t participate in regular physical activity, despite the health benefits it would offer.

The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease program was developed to help people with or without arthritis form walking groups whose goals are safety and success. The program’s three major objectives are to provide participants with

· Education about successful physical activity for people with arthritis

· Opportunity to begin and develop an ongoing aerobic fitness program

Walk with Ease’s information and strategies are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change, and arthritis management.

How does it work? Groups meet for 6 weeks, three times per week. Each session lasts about one hour. The length of each session depends on how long your group decides to walk. At the start, some people may only be able to walk 5 to 15 minutes, but the program will help you gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of walking, three times a week. The program can be modified to meet the interests and needs of participants, who walk at their own pace.

Each session begins with a brief discussion of a topic important to successful walking or arthritis management. After the discussion the group will warm up, stretch, walk, cool down, and stretch one las time. Walking with a group is fun and groups often spend additional time socializing.

Who can participate? The Walk with Ease program is designed for people with arthritis- young and old, male and female, fit and not-so-fit. It is also suitable for people without arthritis who would like to begin a regular walking program to gain the benefits of regular aerobic exercise.

If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can probably participate successfully, and the program can be modified to meet your needs.

If you want to participate but have concerns about your health, consult your health care practitioner before you begin.

How do I register? To participate in the course, you complete and return an application. Please contact the Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or email moniquek@ksu.edu or you can stop by the office at 601 Main St. to fill out the application. The cost is $15 to participate. You receive a book with the class. Classes will meet most Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at 1:30pm at Hays Recreation Center gyms. Classes begin April 3, 2024 and end on May 17, 2024.

Walk with Ease is running concurrently with Walk Kansas and can be a great way to start shifting your habits! You can participate in one program or both programs.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710165653495.png" alt="written by:&nbsp;Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by:&nbsp;Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Many people, for a variety of reasons, such as arthritis or other painful conditions, don’t participate in regular physical activity, despite the health benefits it would offer.The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease program was developed to help people with or without arthritis form walking groups whose goals are safety and success. The program’s three major objectives are to provide participants with· Education about successful physical activity for people with arthritis· Education about arthritis management· Opportunity to begin and develop an ongoing aerobic fitness programWalk with Ease’s information and strategies are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change, and arthritis management.How does it work? Groups meet for 6 weeks, three times per week. Each session lasts about one hour. The length of each session depends on how long your group decides to walk. At the start, some people may only be able to walk 5 to 15 minutes, but the program will help you gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of walking, three times a week. The program can be modified to meet the interests and needs of participants, who walk at their own pace.Each session begins with a brief discussion of a topic important to successful walking or arthritis management. After the discussion the group will warm up, stretch, walk, cool down, and stretch one las time. Walking with a group is fun and groups often spend additional time socializing.Who can participate? The Walk with Ease program is designed for people with arthritis- young and old, male and female, fit and not-so-fit. It is also suitable for people without arthritis who would like to begin a regular walking program to gain the benefits of regular aerobic exercise.If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can probably participate successfully, and the program can be modified to meet your needs.If you want to participate but have concerns about your health, consult your health care practitioner before you begin.How do I register? To participate in the course, you complete and return an application. Please contact the Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or email moniquek@ksu.edu or you can stop by the office at 601 Main St. to fill out the application. The cost is $15 to participate. You receive a book with the class. Classes will meet most Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at 1:30pm at Hays Recreation Center gyms. Classes begin April 3, 2024 and end on May 17, 2024.Walk with Ease is running concurrently with Walk Kansas and can be a great way to start shifting your habits! You can participate in one program or both programs.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Walk with ease

Great Bend city crews will begin working on the intersection of 32nd and Williams on Tuesday, March 12. Crews will be excavating and replacing the flowline and surrounding concrete. Expect the intersection to be closed for the next few weeks to allow for construction and cure time of the concrete. 

We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause on the surrounding neighborhood and thank you for your patience as we work to improve the intersection. Please be attentive while traveling through the area.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Tony Bronson, Street Supervisor at&nbsp;(620) 793-4150, abronson@greatbendks.net.

From the City of Great Bend...Great Bend city crews will begin working on the intersection of 32nd and Williams on Tuesday, March 12. Crews will be excavating and replacing the flowline and surrounding concrete. Expect the intersection to be closed for the next few weeks to allow for construction and cure time of the concrete. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause on the surrounding neighborhood and thank you for your patience as we work to improve the intersection. Please be attentive while traveling through the area.If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Tony Bronson, Street Supervisor at&nbsp;(620) 793-4150, abronson@greatbendks.net.

32nd & Williams intersection to be closed in Great Bend

Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services

Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club is hosting the 8th Annual “Hippity Hop Easter Basket Workshop” on March 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rosewood Activity Center, 1607 Main Street, Great Bend, adjacent to Rosewood Gallery.

During the workshop, children can create their own Easter baskets, decorate Easter eggs, and participate in other fun activities, like coloring Easter pages. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, and children can take photos with him. Families have the option of taking free cell phone photos, or pay $3 to receive a printed photo with the Easter Bunny.

The first 70 children who attend will receive a special prize for their Easter baskets. Children can also enter prize drawings. Following the workshop, drawing winners will be notified.

There is a donation request of $5 per basket for participants, which helps cover the cost of materials for the workshop. Any other proceeds raised from the workshop go toward Rosewood AKTION Club efforts in organizing future community projects.

“It’s hard to believe we have been bringing this event to children in our community for the past eight years,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “It’s easily one of the favorite activities of our Rosewood AKTION Club members because of the joy they are able to bring to all the children and their families. Of course, it’s always an exciting time for children to be able to meet the Easter Bunny. We’re looking forward to a great turnout.”

Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709913746896.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood ServicesRosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club is hosting the 8th Annual “Hippity Hop Easter Basket Workshop” on March 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rosewood Activity Center, 1607 Main Street, Great Bend, adjacent to Rosewood Gallery.During the workshop, children can create their own Easter baskets, decorate Easter eggs, and participate in other fun activities, like coloring Easter pages. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, and children can take photos with him. Families have the option of taking free cell phone photos, or pay $3 to receive a printed photo with the Easter Bunny.The first 70 children who attend will receive a special prize for their Easter baskets. Children can also enter prize drawings. Following the workshop, drawing winners will be notified.There is a donation request of $5 per basket for participants, which helps cover the cost of materials for the workshop. Any other proceeds raised from the workshop go toward Rosewood AKTION Club efforts in organizing future community projects.“It’s hard to believe we have been bringing this event to children in our community for the past eight years,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “It’s easily one of the favorite activities of our Rosewood AKTION Club members because of the joy they are able to bring to all the children and their families. Of course, it’s always an exciting time for children to be able to meet the Easter Bunny. We’re looking forward to a great turnout.”Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

Rosewood to host Easter Basket Workshop in Great Bend

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Johnson -&nbsp;10-46 KA-6926-01 - K-10, bridge #185 over Cedar Creek located 8.54&nbsp;miles east of the Douglas County line in De Soto, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $644,999.16.&nbsp;

Johnson -&nbsp;35-46 KA-7190-01 - I-35, from 95th Street to the I-635/I-35 junction, 4-inch&nbsp;overlay, 7.0 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,169,170.25.&nbsp;

Leavenworth -&nbsp;32-52 KA-6583-01 - K-32, bridge #080 over Stranger Creek&nbsp;located 8.8 miles east of the I-70 (KTA)/ K-32 junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $436,059.36.&nbsp;

Pottawatomie -&nbsp;13-75 KA-4594-01 - K-13, located 0.123 mile south of&nbsp;bridge #020 over Cedar Creek, special, 0.1 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $594,181.85.&nbsp;

Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-2603-03 - K-99, from the I-70/K-99 junction north&nbsp;2 miles to Hereford Road, grading and surfacing, 2.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $11,020,025.43.

Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-5728-01 - K-99, bridge #072 over Dragoon Creek&nbsp;Drainage located 3.7 miles north of K-31, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,075,482.97.

Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6767-01 - I-70, bridge #189 located 0.10 mile east of&nbsp;the Old K-32/I-70 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $133,100.00.

Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6928-01 - I-435, bridge #217 located 0.28 mile northeast&nbsp;of the I-70/I-435 junction in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $440,243.76.&nbsp;

Ellsworth -&nbsp;70-27 KA-5765-01 - I-70, bridge #016 over Elk Horn Creek located 0.26&nbsp;mile northeast of K-156; and bridge #017 over East Elkhorn Creek located 0.25 mile northeast of K-15, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $6,168,427.54.&nbsp;

Mitchell -&nbsp;14-62 KA-6949-01 - K-14, bridge #040 over Salt Creek located 2.52 miles&nbsp;north of the Lincoln County line, bridge repair, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $627,960.50.&nbsp;

Saline -&nbsp;4-85 KA-5721-01 - K-4, bridge #113 over Gypsum Creek Drainage&nbsp;located 1.17 miles southeast of 7th Street in Gypsum, bridge replacement, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $90,682.00.

Ellis -&nbsp;70-26 KA-6954-01 - I-70, bridge #038 located 3.62 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction; and bridge #039 located 3.61 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;

Sherman -&nbsp;27-91 KA-6123-01 - K-27, bridge #042 over the Kyle Railroad located&nbsp;0.84 mile north of I-70, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,257,728.50.

Anderson -&nbsp;59-2 KA-7172-01 - U.S. 59, from 0.4 mile south of roundabout north&nbsp;to 4th Street in the city of Garnett; and from Red Bud Avenue in the city of Garnett&nbsp;north to the north city limits of Garnett, milling and overlay, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $560,187.16.&nbsp;

Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-7078-01 - U.S. 169B, from the U.S. 59/U.S. 169B junction east to the U.S. 169/U.S. 169B junction, milling and overlay, 1.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $379,523.55.&nbsp;

Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-6462-01 - U.S. 169, four locations beginning 0.76 mile&nbsp;northeast of southwest Missouri Road northeast to 0.2 mile north of 1900 Road, guard fence, 10.4 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $653,424.60.&nbsp;

Chautauqua -&nbsp;166-10 KA-6464-01 - U.S. 166, four locations beginning 0.12&nbsp;mile east of I Street east to 0.63 mile east of Road 30, guard fence, 1.1 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $1,741,750.68.&nbsp;

Greenwood -&nbsp;54-37 KA-5760-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #002 over Burnt Creek located&nbsp;3.52 miles east of the Butler County line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $2,369,167.50.&nbsp;

Miami -&nbsp;169-61 KA-6925-01 - U.S. 169, bridge #047 over the Marais Des Cygnes River located 0.40 mile south of the K-279 northbound junction in Osawatomie, bridge&nbsp;repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $1,468,550.73.

Reno -&nbsp;50-78 KA-6757-01 - U.S. 50, bridge #023 over BNSF Railroad located 10.33&nbsp;miles east of the K-61/U.S. 50 east junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $898,150.94.&nbsp;

Sedgwick -&nbsp;87 N-0753-01 – Haysville, east side of South Seneca Street from north&nbsp;end of the M.S. Mitchell Floodway bridge to West 63rd Street South, east to South&nbsp;Mable Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.8 mile, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $673,188.65.

Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-6732-01 - U.S. 83, bridge #017 located at the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;

Finney -&nbsp;28 KA-7209-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb east&nbsp;to U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 18.6 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $1,167,124.34.

Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-7210-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb&nbsp;east to the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 10.4 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $310,770.04.

Meade -&nbsp;54-60 KA-6956-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #033 over Spring Creek located 6.66&nbsp;miles northeast of the U.S. 54/U.S. 160 west junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $847,656.44.

The following project was approved from the Dec. 13, 2023, letting.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastJohnson -&nbsp;10-46 KA-6926-01 - K-10, bridge #185 over Cedar Creek located 8.54&nbsp;miles east of the Douglas County line in De Soto, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $644,999.16.&nbsp;Johnson -&nbsp;35-46 KA-7190-01 - I-35, from 95th Street to the I-635/I-35 junction, 4-inch&nbsp;overlay, 7.0 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,169,170.25.&nbsp;Leavenworth -&nbsp;32-52 KA-6583-01 - K-32, bridge #080 over Stranger Creek&nbsp;located 8.8 miles east of the I-70 (KTA)/ K-32 junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $436,059.36.&nbsp;Pottawatomie -&nbsp;13-75 KA-4594-01 - K-13, located 0.123 mile south of&nbsp;bridge #020 over Cedar Creek, special, 0.1 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $594,181.85.&nbsp;Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-2603-03 - K-99, from the I-70/K-99 junction north&nbsp;2 miles to Hereford Road, grading and surfacing, 2.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $11,020,025.43.Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-5728-01 - K-99, bridge #072 over Dragoon Creek&nbsp;Drainage located 3.7 miles north of K-31, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,075,482.97.Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6767-01 - I-70, bridge #189 located 0.10 mile east of&nbsp;the Old K-32/I-70 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $133,100.00.Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6928-01 - I-435, bridge #217 located 0.28 mile northeast&nbsp;of the I-70/I-435 junction in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $440,243.76.&nbsp;District Two — North Central&nbsp;Ellsworth -&nbsp;70-27 KA-5765-01 - I-70, bridge #016 over Elk Horn Creek located 0.26&nbsp;mile northeast of K-156; and bridge #017 over East Elkhorn Creek located 0.25 mile northeast of K-15, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $6,168,427.54.&nbsp;Mitchell -&nbsp;14-62 KA-6949-01 - K-14, bridge #040 over Salt Creek located 2.52 miles&nbsp;north of the Lincoln County line, bridge repair, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $627,960.50.&nbsp;Saline -&nbsp;4-85 KA-5721-01 - K-4, bridge #113 over Gypsum Creek Drainage&nbsp;located 1.17 miles southeast of 7th Street in Gypsum, bridge replacement, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $90,682.00.District Three — Northwest&nbsp;Ellis -&nbsp;70-26 KA-6954-01 - I-70, bridge #038 located 3.62 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction; and bridge #039 located 3.61 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;Sherman -&nbsp;27-91 KA-6123-01 - K-27, bridge #042 over the Kyle Railroad located&nbsp;0.84 mile north of I-70, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,257,728.50.District Four — Southeast&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;59-2 KA-7172-01 - U.S. 59, from 0.4 mile south of roundabout north&nbsp;to 4th Street in the city of Garnett; and from Red Bud Avenue in the city of Garnett&nbsp;north to the north city limits of Garnett, milling and overlay, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $560,187.16.&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-7078-01 - U.S. 169B, from the U.S. 59/U.S. 169B junction east to the U.S. 169/U.S. 169B junction, milling and overlay, 1.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $379,523.55.&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-6462-01 - U.S. 169, four locations beginning 0.76 mile&nbsp;northeast of southwest Missouri Road northeast to 0.2 mile north of 1900 Road, guard fence, 10.4 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $653,424.60.&nbsp;Chautauqua -&nbsp;166-10 KA-6464-01 - U.S. 166, four locations beginning 0.12&nbsp;mile east of I Street east to 0.63 mile east of Road 30, guard fence, 1.1 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $1,741,750.68.&nbsp;Greenwood -&nbsp;54-37 KA-5760-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #002 over Burnt Creek located&nbsp;3.52 miles east of the Butler County line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $2,369,167.50.&nbsp;Miami -&nbsp;169-61 KA-6925-01 - U.S. 169, bridge #047 over the Marais Des Cygnes River located 0.40 mile south of the K-279 northbound junction in Osawatomie, bridge&nbsp;repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $1,468,550.73.District Five — South Central&nbsp;Reno -&nbsp;50-78 KA-6757-01 - U.S. 50, bridge #023 over BNSF Railroad located 10.33&nbsp;miles east of the K-61/U.S. 50 east junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $898,150.94.&nbsp;Sedgwick -&nbsp;87 N-0753-01 – Haysville, east side of South Seneca Street from north&nbsp;end of the M.S. Mitchell Floodway bridge to West 63rd Street South, east to South&nbsp;Mable Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.8 mile, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $673,188.65.District Six — Southwest&nbsp;Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-6732-01 - U.S. 83, bridge #017 located at the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;Finney -&nbsp;28 KA-7209-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb east&nbsp;to U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 18.6 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $1,167,124.34.Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-7210-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb&nbsp;east to the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 10.4 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $310,770.04.Meade -&nbsp;54-60 KA-6956-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #033 over Spring Creek located 6.66&nbsp;miles northeast of the U.S. 54/U.S. 160 west junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $847,656.44.The following project was approved from the Dec. 13, 2023, letting.

KDOT announces approved February bids

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 2.6% in January. This is unchanged from 2.6% in December and a decrease from 2.8% in January 2023.

“The average unemployment rate for Kansas was 2.7% in 2023,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “January 2024 shows continually low unemployment, with an unemployment rate of 2.6%.”

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 1,200 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 1,800 over the month, while government increased by 600.

The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 2 percent in December to 2.6 percent. Ellsworth, Rice and Pawnee County also saw a slight increase. The rate in Harvey County is up to 4.8 percent in the report released Friday.

Since January 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 8,500. This change is due to an increase of 7,000 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,500 government jobs.

“Total nonfarm jobs showed little change over the month in January,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “Since January 2023, Kansas has added 8,500 nonfarm jobs, with 7,000 of those in the private sector.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709910516530.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 2.6% in January. This is unchanged from 2.6% in December and a decrease from 2.8% in January 2023.“The average unemployment rate for Kansas was 2.7% in 2023,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “January 2024 shows continually low unemployment, with an unemployment rate of 2.6%.”Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 1,200 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 1,800 over the month, while government increased by 600.The unemployment rate in Barton County is up from 2 percent in December to 2.6 percent. Ellsworth, Rice and Pawnee County also saw a slight increase. The rate in Harvey County is up to 4.8 percent in the report released Friday.Since January 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 8,500. This change is due to an increase of 7,000 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,500 government jobs.“Total nonfarm jobs showed little change over the month in January,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “Since January 2023, Kansas has added 8,500 nonfarm jobs, with 7,000 of those in the private sector.”<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for</a> the complete Kansas labor market information for January.

Jobless rate up slightly in Barton County and across the region

From the Barton County Sheriff's Office...

In the past two weeks, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office responded to two separate suspected fentanyl overdoses that required emergency medical treatment. In both incidents the individuals became unresponsive and EMS, as well as law enforcement, were called. In both cases, we have reason to believe suspected fentanyl had been ingested shortly prior to the individual becoming unconscious. In both cases, the patient has survived.

Kansas, as well as most of the United States, has seen an increase in the presence fentanyl in the last two or three years. In many cases the drug is disguised as pharmaceutical pain medication.

The precursor chemicals are being shipped from China to Mexico where they are synthesized into fentanyl. The drug is then smuggled across the border.

Locally, we have seen far more fentanyl in the last two years than ever before. All patrol units, as well as the jail, are equipped with Narcan in the event an officer is accidentally exposed or we need to render aid to a citizen.

We are currently investigating the local sources of these two overdose cases.

From the Barton County Sheriff's Office...In the past two weeks, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office responded to two separate suspected fentanyl overdoses that required emergency medical treatment. In both incidents the individuals became unresponsive and EMS, as well as law enforcement, were called. In both cases, we have reason to believe suspected fentanyl had been ingested shortly prior to the individual becoming unconscious. In both cases, the patient has survived.Kansas, as well as most of the United States, has seen an increase in the presence fentanyl in the last two or three years. In many cases the drug is disguised as pharmaceutical pain medication.The precursor chemicals are being shipped from China to Mexico where they are synthesized into fentanyl. The drug is then smuggled across the border.Locally, we have seen far more fentanyl in the last two years than ever before. All patrol units, as well as the jail, are equipped with Narcan in the event an officer is accidentally exposed or we need to render aid to a citizen.We are currently investigating the local sources of these two overdose cases.

Two fentanyl overdoses in two weeks in Barton County

Great Bend Recreation Commission Board meeting March 11 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center

1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests

2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: February 12, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports

3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments

4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 February Attendance Report

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291719070.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Recreation Commission Board meeting March 11 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation CenterAgenda1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: February 12, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 February Attendance Report5. New Business6. Other Business7. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec Board meeting agenda (3/11)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Governor Laura Kelly announced last week that 58 projects at 37 airports around Kansas will benefit from $14.3 million in state funds through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP). The Kansas Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation received 135 applications seeking more than $84 million for projects. Airports in Pawnee and Ellsworth counties were among those selected, and Larned-Pawnee County Airport Manager Steve Gross called the funds necessary.

"We could never afford to do that without the state money, period," he said. "That's all there is to it. That's a pretty cool deal."

Airports had to match the donation with 10 percent of the cost of the projects. The Pawnee County Airport will receive $166,860. More than $41,000 will go toward upgrading the fuel pump, fuel filters, hose reel, and credit card readers for the fuel system. The brunt of Larned's money will go toward the replacement of the Automated Weather Observation System.

"It's obsolete," Gross said. "We can't buy parts for the old one now, so we're running on thin ice with that. We're really happy. We've never gotten any KDOT money before. It's going to be coming just in time."

The Ellsworth Municipal Airport will receive $675,000 for a taxilane project. Johnson County will receive more than $4.7 million for work on two airports, and the Gardner Municipal, Emporia Municipal, and Lucas airports will each receive more than $798,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709657477768.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGovernor Laura Kelly announced last week that 58 projects at 37 airports around Kansas will benefit from $14.3 million in state funds through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP). The Kansas Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation received 135 applications seeking more than $84 million for projects. Airports in Pawnee and Ellsworth counties were among those selected, and Larned-Pawnee County Airport Manager Steve Gross called the funds necessary."We could never afford to do that without the state money, period," he said. "That's all there is to it. That's a pretty cool deal."Airports had to match the donation with 10 percent of the cost of the projects. The Pawnee County Airport will receive $166,860. More than $41,000 will go toward upgrading the fuel pump, fuel filters, hose reel, and credit card readers for the fuel system. The brunt of Larned's money will go toward the replacement of the Automated Weather Observation System."It's obsolete," Gross said. "We can't buy parts for the old one now, so we're running on thin ice with that. We're really happy. We've never gotten any KDOT money before. It's going to be coming just in time."The Ellsworth Municipal Airport will receive $675,000 for a taxilane project. Johnson County will receive more than $4.7 million for work on two airports, and the Gardner Municipal, Emporia Municipal, and Lucas airports will each receive more than $798,000.

Pawnee, Ellsworth Co. airports awarded KDOT money for projects

3/8 BOOKED: Dilson Aguilera-Tobar on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Insurance, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Saline County warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $608 cash only.

BOOKED: Daniel Trevino on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Mary Marrone on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Light, on 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Amy Zapata on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Offender Registration Act, after posting $40,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonding.

RELEASED: Daniel Wood on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $20,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonding.

RELEASED: Dilson Aguilera-Tobar on Salina Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, after posting a $343 cash bond.

3/9 BOOKED: Alan Bobbitt on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Burglary, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Matthew Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $173 cash only.

RELEASED: Matthew Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $173 cash bond.

RELEASED: Christina Baldwin-Gaston on Linn County warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Left of Center, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

3/10 BOOKED: Juan Luna-Cuellar on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, and Driving on Wrong Side of Road, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Juan Luna-Cuellar on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, and Driving on Wrong Side of Road, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/8 BOOKED: Dilson Aguilera-Tobar on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Insurance, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Saline County warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $608 cash only.BOOKED: Daniel Trevino on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Mary Marrone on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Defective Tail Light, on 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Amy Zapata on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Offender Registration Act, after posting $40,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonding.RELEASED: Daniel Wood on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $20,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonding.RELEASED: Dilson Aguilera-Tobar on Salina Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, after posting a $343 cash bond.3/9 BOOKED: Alan Bobbitt on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Burglary, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Matthew Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $173 cash only.RELEASED: Matthew Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $173 cash bond.RELEASED: Christina Baldwin-Gaston on Linn County warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Left of Center, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.3/10 BOOKED: Juan Luna-Cuellar on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, and Driving on Wrong Side of Road, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Juan Luna-Cuellar on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, and Driving on Wrong Side of Road, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/8 - 3/10)

The melodic song of several sandhill cranes made its way down from high above Eagle Radio at 12th Street and Baker Avenue Wednesday morning in Great Bend. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said sandhill sightings have been numerous over the past two weeks as the birds head toward their staging ground near the Platte River in Nebraska.

"About two and a half weeks ago, they had their first count," Wolf said. "The biologists will do counts, and hey already about 38,000 sandhill cranes up there. That's a lot for that early, thinking it's still a month before they reach their peak."

Locally, spring migration is underway a little earlier than usual at Cheyenne Bottoms. Phenology is the study of natural cycles, and the arrival of killdeer at the Bottoms is one of the first signs of spring migration each year.

"The first date of killdeer arriving, we try to keep track of that," said Wolf. "Wildlife and Parks has a pretty long list, well over 40 years of data they've kept track of the first sightings of some bird species in the area. For killdeer in the springtime, their average first date is Feb. 28. This year, it was at least two or three weeks early."

Many ducks are also present at the Bottoms, including one of the largest populations of Northern Pintails in Kansas. Many other species are present in smaller numbers.

"They're so gorgeous," Wolf said. "The drakes, or male ducks, are so colorful right now. It's so phenomenal to watch them. A lot of them, they're pairing up with mates and they have courtship displays. It's such a fun time to see ducks and you can see some huge congregations."

Many of the ducks will end up in the Prairie Pothole Region, a series of thousands of shallow wetlands spread across central Iowa and western Minnesota, throughout the Dakotas, and into Canada.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630355503471.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe melodic song of several sandhill cranes made its way down from high above Eagle Radio at 12th Street and Baker Avenue Wednesday morning in Great Bend. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said sandhill sightings have been numerous over the past two weeks as the birds head toward their staging ground near the Platte River in Nebraska."About two and a half weeks ago, they had their first count," Wolf said. "The biologists will do counts, and hey already about 38,000 sandhill cranes up there. That's a lot for that early, thinking it's still a month before they reach their peak."Locally, spring migration is underway a little earlier than usual at Cheyenne Bottoms. Phenology is the study of natural cycles, and the arrival of killdeer at the Bottoms is one of the first signs of spring migration each year."The first date of killdeer arriving, we try to keep track of that," said Wolf. "Wildlife and Parks has a pretty long list, well over 40 years of data they've kept track of the first sightings of some bird species in the area. For killdeer in the springtime, their average first date is Feb. 28. This year, it was at least two or three weeks early."Many ducks are also present at the Bottoms, including one of the largest populations of Northern Pintails in Kansas. Many other species are present in smaller numbers."They're so gorgeous," Wolf said. "The drakes, or male ducks, are so colorful right now. It's so phenomenal to watch them. A lot of them, they're pairing up with mates and they have courtship displays. It's such a fun time to see ducks and you can see some huge congregations."Many of the ducks will end up in the Prairie Pothole Region, a series of thousands of shallow wetlands spread across central Iowa and western Minnesota, throughout the Dakotas, and into Canada.

Sandhill cranes, ducks get early start on migration through Bottoms

Today Sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Tuesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 74. South southwest wind 11 to 14 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.

Tuesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming southeast after midnight.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Breezy.

Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33. Breezy.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 61.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Tuesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 74. South southwest wind 11 to 14 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.Tuesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming southeast after midnight.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Breezy.Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33. Breezy.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 61.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

The Great Bend League of Women Voters is having a fundraiser at the Great Bend Pizza Hut on March 14. 

A portion of the proceeds from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. will go to the League. The organization will use the money for scholarships for membership dues and copy work.

The Great Bend League of Women Voters is having a fundraiser at the Great Bend Pizza Hut on March 14. A portion of the proceeds from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. will go to the League. The organization will use the money for scholarships for membership dues and copy work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709826958771.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend League of Women Voters having Pizza Hut fundraiser

Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Megan Barfield that aired March 7, 2024.

The Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Megan Barfield that aired March 7, 2024.<div><iframe title="Chamber Connect: Great Bend Chamber CEO Megan Barfield" 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=nzd9a-15a302d-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 Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Chamber CEO Megan Barfield

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces the launch of a three-month pilot study exploring whether a pay-per-mile road usage charge (RUC) could potentially replace the current state fuel tax as a new way to fund roads and bridges. The study, part of the Kansas Midwest RUC Study, asks Kansans to try out mileage reporting options and provide feedback about their experience.&nbsp;

Today, gasoline-powered vehicles pay 24 cents per gallon for state gas tax, and diesel-powered vehicles pay 26 cents per gallon for state diesel tax. As vehicles transition to being more fuel efficient or not use gas or diesel at all, state transportation funding may fall short.

KDOT is proactively exploring whether a RUC could be a sustainable, long-term funding source for transportation in the state. KDOT, in partnership with Minnesota Department of Transportation, is utilizing federal grant money available to states to study potential alternative approaches to transportation funding. To date, most states exploring RUC are on the East and West coasts — and Kansas is adding a Midwest perspective to this national conversation.

KDOT is actively recruiting pilot participants to take part in the study, which is scheduled to begin in April. Drivers across the state are asked to take part, especially rural Kansans who drive passenger vehicles or medium-duty trucks, people working in the agriculture industry and owners or operators of large trucks. Participants who fully complete the pilot can earn a $100 incentive.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces the launch of a three-month pilot study exploring whether a pay-per-mile road usage charge (RUC) could potentially replace the current state fuel tax as a new way to fund roads and bridges. The study, part of the Kansas Midwest RUC Study, asks Kansans to try out mileage reporting options and provide feedback about their experience.&nbsp;Today, gasoline-powered vehicles pay 24 cents per gallon for state gas tax, and diesel-powered vehicles pay 26 cents per gallon for state diesel tax. As vehicles transition to being more fuel efficient or not use gas or diesel at all, state transportation funding may fall short.KDOT is proactively exploring whether a RUC could be a sustainable, long-term funding source for transportation in the state. KDOT, in partnership with Minnesota Department of Transportation, is utilizing federal grant money available to states to study potential alternative approaches to transportation funding. To date, most states exploring RUC are on the East and West coasts — and Kansas is adding a Midwest perspective to this national conversation.KDOT is actively recruiting pilot participants to take part in the study, which is scheduled to begin in April. Drivers across the state are asked to take part, especially rural Kansans who drive passenger vehicles or medium-duty trucks, people working in the agriculture industry and owners or operators of large trucks. Participants who fully complete the pilot can earn a $100 incentive.

Road usage charge study underway, looking for Kansans to participate

The
drought monitor report as of March 5 is showing a slight increase to abnormally
dry by about six percent.&nbsp; Only the
southeast tip of Barton County is abnormally dry and the rest of the county is
totally out of dry conditions as are Pawnee and Rush Counties.&nbsp; Southwest Kansas continues totally out of
drought and Northeast Kansas is a mixture of mostly no drought and abnormally
dry with a smattering of moderate drought and small area of severe drought. &nbsp;The six to ten-day outlook (March 12 to 16) indicates
a 60 to 70% chance of likely above normal temperatures and 40 to 50% chance of leaning
to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (March 14 to 20) indicates a continued 33 to 40% chance
of leaning above normal temperatures and a continued 33 to 40% chance of
leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; 

Last week’s column described what
regenerative agriculture RA is.&nbsp; This
week, how is it implemented?&nbsp; Remember,
this isn’t a one size fits all approach and techniques vary by location, soil
type, climate, and naturally are affected by weather.&nbsp; 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cover
Crops – The goal is to never leave the soil devoid of vegetation.&nbsp; What is possible depends on the factors noted
in the previous paragraph.&nbsp; With a living
root system, you reduce erosion, increase water-holding capacity, microbial
biomass and health, improve soil structure, and long-term nutrient holding
capacity and increase nutrient cycling.&nbsp;
An added benefit to good cover crops is over time, the need for
herbicides will decrease as they help choke out weeds and aid in vigorous crop
growth and canopy closure.&nbsp; Depending on
the operation, cover crops can serve as pasture for grazing.&nbsp; Here, where wind and water erosion can both
be problems, cover crops combined with the next point also provide an overall
more stable soil physical environment and helps buffer the soil form
temperature extremes.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No-Till
Practices – The column has discussed no-till often. Long-term no-till,
especially in conjunction with cover crops, decreases the need for herbicides,
decreases soil erosion, improves soil structure, increases water infiltration
while decreasing runoff, helps build organic matter, and increases soil water
and nutrient holding capacity, and decreases evaporative losses.&nbsp; It also moderates the soil temperature
environment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Composting/Building
Soil Organic Matter – We have already mentioned the importance of organic
matter in this and several previous columns.&nbsp;
Most operations aren’t going to do large scale composting but cover
crops and eliminating tillage build organic matter.&nbsp; Also adding animal manures helps.&nbsp; The advantage to proper composting is in the
eliminating diseases, and for residues low in nitrogen, it eliminates the
possible tie up of nitrogen as microbes break down the organic matter into
humus.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Added
benefits include less fuel consumption and overall decreased input costs over
time.

Next
week: How RA can help mitigate climate change.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596995818491.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of March 5 is showing a slight increase to abnormally
dry by about six percent.&nbsp; Only the
southeast tip of Barton County is abnormally dry and the rest of the county is
totally out of dry conditions as are Pawnee and Rush Counties.&nbsp; Southwest Kansas continues totally out of
drought and Northeast Kansas is a mixture of mostly no drought and abnormally
dry with a smattering of moderate drought and small area of severe drought. &nbsp;The six to ten-day outlook (March 12 to 16) indicates
a 60 to 70% chance of likely above normal temperatures and 40 to 50% chance of leaning
to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight
to fourteen-day outlook (March 14 to 20) indicates a continued 33 to 40% chance
of leaning above normal temperatures and a continued 33 to 40% chance of
leaning to above normal precipitation.&nbsp; Last week’s column described what
regenerative agriculture RA is.&nbsp; This
week, how is it implemented?&nbsp; Remember,
this isn’t a one size fits all approach and techniques vary by location, soil
type, climate, and naturally are affected by weather.&nbsp; ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cover
Crops – The goal is to never leave the soil devoid of vegetation.&nbsp; What is possible depends on the factors noted
in the previous paragraph.&nbsp; With a living
root system, you reduce erosion, increase water-holding capacity, microbial
biomass and health, improve soil structure, and long-term nutrient holding
capacity and increase nutrient cycling.&nbsp;
An added benefit to good cover crops is over time, the need for
herbicides will decrease as they help choke out weeds and aid in vigorous crop
growth and canopy closure.&nbsp; Depending on
the operation, cover crops can serve as pasture for grazing.&nbsp; Here, where wind and water erosion can both
be problems, cover crops combined with the next point also provide an overall
more stable soil physical environment and helps buffer the soil form
temperature extremes.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No-Till
Practices – The column has discussed no-till often. Long-term no-till,
especially in conjunction with cover crops, decreases the need for herbicides,
decreases soil erosion, improves soil structure, increases water infiltration
while decreasing runoff, helps build organic matter, and increases soil water
and nutrient holding capacity, and decreases evaporative losses.&nbsp; It also moderates the soil temperature
environment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Composting/Building
Soil Organic Matter – We have already mentioned the importance of organic
matter in this and several previous columns.&nbsp;
Most operations aren’t going to do large scale composting but cover
crops and eliminating tillage build organic matter.&nbsp; Also adding animal manures helps.&nbsp; The advantage to proper composting is in the
eliminating diseases, and for residues low in nitrogen, it eliminates the
possible tie up of nitrogen as microbes break down the organic matter into
humus.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Added
benefits include less fuel consumption and overall decreased input costs over
time.Next
week: How RA can help mitigate climate change.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Regenerative Agriculture Part II 

Great Bend Earth Day Celebration looks to be growing in its third year with more vendor participation expected this year. The event is scheduled form 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 20 at Great Bend Zoo. Already, there are 10 vendors signed up to participate in the local event, organized to commemorate the worldwide Earth Day effort that raises awareness of the need to protect Earth’s natural resources.

The Great Bend Zoo, Rosewood ECycle and Great Bend Dairy Queen are sponsoring, and invite other organizations and businesses to participate in the celebration. There is no charge for booth set-up. Any group promoting conservation, or providing children’s entertainment and education is encouraged to join.

Several organizations that participated the previous two years have committed to the local come-and-go celebration, which occurs two days ahead of the official 54th anniversary of Earth Day. In addition to involvement by the three sponsors, Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Heartland Farm, Great Bend Zoological Society, Women For Kansas, along with ‘Read With Me’ program members Luna and Glenn, are participating again. Smoky Hills PBS is also returning, and plans to bring a special PBS Character once again. An appearance by Curious George two years ago brought a record 1,600 participants to Great Bend Earth Day Celebration.

Barton Community College STEM Club, with an expected appearance by Bart The Cougar, is a new addition to this year’s event. Also participating for the first time is Sunflower Recycling Center, and Face Painting will be available at this year’s event.

“We’re really glad to have our returning vendors back, but also excited to add new vendors this year, which provides more diverse activities for the children,” explained Burdick. “With the expected participation of Bart The Cougar and the return of Smoky Hills PBS with one of its characters, this year stands to be a memorable event for children and families. I’m pleased with how Great Bend Earth Day Celebration has grown so much in only a few years.”

As the third annual event draws closer, Burdick encourages other businesses, organizations and food vendors to sign up prior to the April 1 deadline. Those wanting to participate can contact Burdick at 620-793-4226, or e-mail her at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:zoocurator@greatbendks.net">zoocurator@greatbendks.net</a>.

In case of inclement weather, the Zoo will also offer indoor or covered vendor space.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709828423081.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood ServicesGreat Bend Earth Day Celebration looks to be growing in its third year with more vendor participation expected this year. The event is scheduled form 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 20 at Great Bend Zoo. Already, there are 10 vendors signed up to participate in the local event, organized to commemorate the worldwide Earth Day effort that raises awareness of the need to protect Earth’s natural resources.The Great Bend Zoo, Rosewood ECycle and Great Bend Dairy Queen are sponsoring, and invite other organizations and businesses to participate in the celebration. There is no charge for booth set-up. Any group promoting conservation, or providing children’s entertainment and education is encouraged to join.Several organizations that participated the previous two years have committed to the local come-and-go celebration, which occurs two days ahead of the official 54th anniversary of Earth Day. In addition to involvement by the three sponsors, Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Heartland Farm, Great Bend Zoological Society, Women For Kansas, along with ‘Read With Me’ program members Luna and Glenn, are participating again. Smoky Hills PBS is also returning, and plans to bring a special PBS Character once again. An appearance by Curious George two years ago brought a record 1,600 participants to Great Bend Earth Day Celebration.Barton Community College STEM Club, with an expected appearance by Bart The Cougar, is a new addition to this year’s event. Also participating for the first time is Sunflower Recycling Center, and Face Painting will be available at this year’s event.“We’re really glad to have our returning vendors back, but also excited to add new vendors this year, which provides more diverse activities for the children,” explained Burdick. “With the expected participation of Bart The Cougar and the return of Smoky Hills PBS with one of its characters, this year stands to be a memorable event for children and families. I’m pleased with how Great Bend Earth Day Celebration has grown so much in only a few years.”As the third annual event draws closer, Burdick encourages other businesses, organizations and food vendors to sign up prior to the April 1 deadline. Those wanting to participate can contact Burdick at 620-793-4226, or e-mail her at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:zoocurator@greatbendks.net">zoocurator@greatbendks.net</a>.In case of inclement weather, the Zoo will also offer indoor or covered vendor space.

Vendors can still sign up for ‘Earth Day Celebration’ in Great Bend

Sharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;

“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;

Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;

Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;

Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;

At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;

Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;

Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;

Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=pWFQGwLu4FvKAR2w0Dp1sd5mVn1c6bkm2LMQiB_AY1jASrc4ZDyvaQ==&amp;ch=GbE5AAImBimBTk6t-N702LAnDBTHYye_QaqSdAoxQmI47Axy9QaGfg==" target="_blank">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=pWFQGwLu4FvKAR2w0Dp1sd5mVn1c6bkm2LMQiB_AY1jASrc4ZDyvaQ==&amp;ch=GbE5AAImBimBTk6t-N702LAnDBTHYye_QaqSdAoxQmI47Axy9QaGfg==" target="_blank">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: From the farm to the consumer

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Construction on the $1.6 million childcare center in Great Bend,
facilitated by Great Bend Economic Development, is expected to be finished in
April. A public open house will be held in mid-April for the 6,500-square-foot
daycare. 

Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said following a job fair in
February, the Advancing Barton County Childcare committee is still seeking
applicants for the 11 daycare positions.


"We still have some to hire," said Arnberger. "If you know someone interested in the position, please encourage them to apply. All of the part-time positions will be apprenticeships. They're great opportunities for students that want to learn more and accelerate as they participate in a childcare career."

Named Bright Beginnings Childcare, the facility will be open for 59 children in the beginning,
ages six weeks to five years. 
The ABCC committee took on fundraising for the daycare and received a $2.23
million grant to assist with the Great Bend facility and build a similar
daycare in Hoisington.&nbsp; &nbsp;


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709911146467.jpeg" alt="Construction on the new childcare center at the 10th Street and K-96 Highway intersection in Great Bend is expected to be finished in April." />
 <figcaption>Construction on the new childcare center at the 10th Street and K-96 Highway intersection in Great Bend is expected to be finished in April.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostConstruction on the $1.6 million childcare center in Great Bend,
facilitated by Great Bend Economic Development, is expected to be finished in
April. A public open house will be held in mid-April for the 6,500-square-foot
daycare. Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said following a job fair in
February, the Advancing Barton County Childcare committee is still seeking
applicants for the 11 daycare positions.
"We still have some to hire," said Arnberger. "If you know someone interested in the position, please encourage them to apply. All of the part-time positions will be apprenticeships. They're great opportunities for students that want to learn more and accelerate as they participate in a childcare career."Named Bright Beginnings Childcare, the facility will be open for 59 children in the beginning,
ages six weeks to five years. 
The ABCC committee took on fundraising for the daycare and received a $2.23
million grant to assist with the Great Bend facility and build a similar
daycare in Hoisington.&nbsp; &nbsp;
Pending all of the
childcare’s licensing and reviews, Arnberger is hopeful for an opening date in
May.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;