Save the date for the 2023 Crop Production Update, hosted by the Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association (KARA) and in cooperation with K-State Research and Extension. The two-day event is set for December 6 and 7 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Manhattan, KS. Each day will kick off at 8:30 a.m. and conclude around 4:00 p.m. Several CCA CEUs will be offered in addition to one 1A hour and one core hour.

This training provides the latest research and technological advances in weed and insect control, fertilizer and chemical recommendations, soil fertility concerns, and much more. The agendas for each day are still being finalized and will be shared in a future eUpdate article. Stay tuned to the eUpdate and the conference website (https://www.ksagretailers.org/events-training/crop-production-update/) for registration to open and the final agendas to be released soon. K-State Research and Extension will host the 21st annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on January 16 and 17. The conference will take place in the traditional in-person format at the Gateway Civic Center in Oberlin, KS.

Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region.

The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year’s conference will feature university specialists and industry representatives discussing what’s driving profitability in northwest Kansas farms. Confirmed session topics will include economic drivers on northwest Kansas farms, weed resistance management, cropping systems, and soil fertility management. Additional session topics and speakers are still being finalized and will be announced in an upcoming eUpdate article and on the conference website at www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres

The same programs will be offered on both days of the conference. Participants attending both days will find catching most or all of the programs easier. The sessions are followed by a social on Tuesday evening, where attendees can visit with industry representatives and conference speakers while enjoying appetizers.

Online registration is open. The fee is $55 for Tuesday, January 16, $60 for Wednesday, January 17, or $80 for both days. After January 10th, and for walk-ins, the cost is $80 per day. The conference fee includes lunch, morning and afternoon refreshments and educational

materials. The program will offer continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Crop Advisors and 1A for Commercial Applicators credit.

To view the preliminary conference details, lodging accommodations, and online registration, visit www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres. For questions, call 785-462-6281.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Save the date for the 2023 Crop Production Update, hosted by the Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association (KARA) and in cooperation with K-State Research and Extension. The two-day event is set for December 6 and 7 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Manhattan, KS. Each day will kick off at 8:30 a.m. and conclude around 4:00 p.m. Several CCA CEUs will be offered in addition to one 1A hour and one core hour.This training provides the latest research and technological advances in weed and insect control, fertilizer and chemical recommendations, soil fertility concerns, and much more. The agendas for each day are still being finalized and will be shared in a future eUpdate article. Stay tuned to the eUpdate and the conference website (https://www.ksagretailers.org/events-training/crop-production-update/) for registration to open and the final agendas to be released soon. K-State Research and Extension will host the 21st annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on January 16 and 17. The conference will take place in the traditional in-person format at the Gateway Civic Center in Oberlin, KS.Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region.The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year’s conference will feature university specialists and industry representatives discussing what’s driving profitability in northwest Kansas farms. Confirmed session topics will include economic drivers on northwest Kansas farms, weed resistance management, cropping systems, and soil fertility management. Additional session topics and speakers are still being finalized and will be announced in an upcoming eUpdate article and on the conference website at www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracresThe same programs will be offered on both days of the conference. Participants attending both days will find catching most or all of the programs easier. The sessions are followed by a social on Tuesday evening, where attendees can visit with industry representatives and conference speakers while enjoying appetizers.Online registration is open. The fee is $55 for Tuesday, January 16, $60 for Wednesday, January 17, or $80 for both days. After January 10th, and for walk-ins, the cost is $80 per day. The conference fee includes lunch, morning and afternoon refreshments and educationalmaterials. The program will offer continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Crop Advisors and 1A for Commercial Applicators credit.To view the preliminary conference details, lodging accommodations, and online registration, visit www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres. For questions, call 785-462-6281.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Crop production update & Cover Your Acres Winter Conference

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Last week, the City of Hoisington posted a reminder on the placement of
trash and recycling containers within city limits. In an attempt to keep the
town orderly, an ordinance passed in 2014 states that trash or recycling bins
can be placed by street no earlier than 7 a.m. on the day before the scheduled
pickup day. The containers need to be removed from the collection point 24
hours after collection. 

Hoisington Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper said
the ordinance is in place to prevent trash and debris from being tossed around
in the neighborhoods.


"Some people will even store their garbage," said Kipper. "They will leave it by the road throughout the whole week. Obviously, we're going to get wind. What is it going to do? It's going to knock over the bin and we'll have items flying throughout town."

Stutzman Refuse Disposal handles the trash pickup in Hoisington once a week and
recycling pickup once every other week. The east side of town has their trash
and recyclable pickups on Thursdays while the west side residents have Friday
pickups.


"I'll see anything from milk jugs, newspapers and cereal boxes flying all over town," said Kipper. "That is due to people leaving their recycling cans and garbage cans by the road versus next to your house, where there is shelter from the wind."

Violations of the ordinance can be punishable by fines. Kipper encouraged residents to call her office with code enforcement concerns at 620-653-4995.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699909194774.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast week, the City of Hoisington posted a reminder on the placement of
trash and recycling containers within city limits. In an attempt to keep the
town orderly, an ordinance passed in 2014 states that trash or recycling bins
can be placed by street no earlier than 7 a.m. on the day before the scheduled
pickup day. The containers need to be removed from the collection point 24
hours after collection. Hoisington Code Enforcement Officer Dolores Kipper said
the ordinance is in place to prevent trash and debris from being tossed around
in the neighborhoods.
"Some people will even store their garbage," said Kipper. "They will leave it by the road throughout the whole week. Obviously, we're going to get wind. What is it going to do? It's going to knock over the bin and we'll have items flying throughout town."Stutzman Refuse Disposal handles the trash pickup in Hoisington once a week and
recycling pickup once every other week. The east side of town has their trash
and recyclable pickups on Thursdays while the west side residents have Friday
pickups.
"I'll see anything from milk jugs, newspapers and cereal boxes flying all over town," said Kipper. "That is due to people leaving their recycling cans and garbage cans by the road versus next to your house, where there is shelter from the wind."Violations of the ordinance can be punishable by fines. Kipper encouraged residents to call her office with code enforcement concerns at 620-653-4995.

Hoisington reminds residents of trash container ordinance

News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 13 John P. Tretbar

The government says record U.S. crude production will continue to grow next year. The Energy Information Administration forecasts a one-million barrel per day increase in U.S. output next year. Current output averages over 13 million barrels per day, an all-time high. EIA's Short Term Energy Outlook says production cuts by the OPEC-Plus export group will offset growth elsewhere. That should help maintain what the government called a "relatively balanced" global market. EIA also forecasts a drop in domestic gasoline use. If our gasoline consumption matches the forecast it would mark the lowest per capita consumption rate in twenty years.

A monthly report from OPEC acknowledges dramatic U.S. supply growth, and forecasts increased growth in oil demand within and outside the cartel's customer base. The Monthly Oil Market Report increases its expectations for demand through the end of this year, and predicts steady growth in demand next year. OPEC reports the lowest U.S. imports since December, and the highest U.S. exports since March.

Record high production is tracking alongside record high wages and unemployment in the U.S. oil patch. Wages for front-line oil-and-gas workers rose for a third straight month in September to a new record: $43.63 per hour. Citing data from the Labor Department, Bloomberg reports take-home pay in the patch is up 5.7% over a year ago. The unemployment rate in oil and natural gas jumped to 6.1% in October compared to less than one percent (0.8%) a year earlier. This is the second time this year that oil patch unemployment rose above six percent.

The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Friday at $77.17 per barrel, up more than a dollar on the day. But in the last week the price is down more than three dollars, in the last two weeks it's down eight dollars, and in the lasts three weeks it's down more than eleven dollars a barrel. In morning trading Monday prices were up more than sixty cents. London Brent rose above $82 a barrel and WTI was just a few cents shy of $78.Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $67.50 per barrel after gaining a $1.50 on Friday. That's down more than three dollars from the start of the month.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes stands at 616 active rigs, down two oil rigs from last week. The count in Louisiana was down three. Texas was down two rigs. Oklahoma and New Mexico were each up one.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down one rig in Western Kansas and up one east of Wichita. The tally is up ten percent from a month ago, but down more than 26% from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County and one in Ellis County.

Kansas regulators report 197 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last month, including five in Barton County and six in Ellis County. The Kansas Corporation Commission lists 1,188 new intents for the first nine months of the year, compared to 1,457 through October last year. So far this year, Barton County has 36 intents on file. Ellis County has 43. Russell County has five and Stafford County adds 24.Kansas regulators approved permits for drilling at 25 new locations last week, 14 in eastern Kansas and 11 west of Wichita, including one in Barton County. That's 1,140 new permits so far this year, compared to 1,436 a year ago, a drop of about 20%.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 52 newly-completed wells across the state, with 33 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, five in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.

The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Friday at $77.17 per barrel, up more than a dollar on the day. But in the last week that price is down more than three dollars, in the last two weeks it's down eight dollars, and in the last three weeks it's down more than eleven dollars a barrel. In morning trading Monday prices were up more than sixty cents. London Brent rose above $82 a barrel and WTI was just a few cents shy of $78.As goes Citgo, so goes Venezuelan refining. It could take several months, but three refineries are included in the upcoming auction of the Venezuelan company Citgo as part of the U.S. move to relax sanctions against that country.&nbsp; According to the Energy Information Administration, the three refineries together account for about five percent of U.S. refining capacity. The refineries are built for the sour, heavy crude grades once supplied by Venezuelan oil fields. On October 23, &nbsp;marketing materials were offered to potential buyers, marking the formal beginning of the process to auction off the company.

Petroleum rail shipments were one of nine cargo categories that saw increases in October according to the Association of American Railroads, which noted an increase of 5,046 carloads or 14.2 percent over last year. Oil-by-rail traffic for the week through October 28 was up more than 13% over a year ago. At 9,976 tanker carloads, rail shipments increased by 33 carloads over the week before.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Nov. 13 John P. TretbarThe government says record U.S. crude production will continue to grow next year. The Energy Information Administration forecasts a one-million barrel per day increase in U.S. output next year. Current output averages over 13 million barrels per day, an all-time high. EIA's Short Term Energy Outlook says production cuts by the OPEC-Plus export group will offset growth elsewhere. That should help maintain what the government called a "relatively balanced" global market. EIA also forecasts a drop in domestic gasoline use. If our gasoline consumption matches the forecast it would mark the lowest per capita consumption rate in twenty years.A monthly report from OPEC acknowledges dramatic U.S. supply growth, and forecasts increased growth in oil demand within and outside the cartel's customer base. The Monthly Oil Market Report increases its expectations for demand through the end of this year, and predicts steady growth in demand next year. OPEC reports the lowest U.S. imports since December, and the highest U.S. exports since March.Record high production is tracking alongside record high wages and unemployment in the U.S. oil patch. Wages for front-line oil-and-gas workers rose for a third straight month in September to a new record: $43.63 per hour. Citing data from the Labor Department, Bloomberg reports take-home pay in the patch is up 5.7% over a year ago. The unemployment rate in oil and natural gas jumped to 6.1% in October compared to less than one percent (0.8%) a year earlier. This is the second time this year that oil patch unemployment rose above six percent.The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Friday at $77.17 per barrel, up more than a dollar on the day. But in the last week the price is down more than three dollars, in the last two weeks it's down eight dollars, and in the lasts three weeks it's down more than eleven dollars a barrel. In morning trading Monday prices were up more than sixty cents. London Brent rose above $82 a barrel and WTI was just a few cents shy of $78.Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $67.50 per barrel after gaining a $1.50 on Friday. That's down more than three dollars from the start of the month.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes stands at 616 active rigs, down two oil rigs from last week. The count in Louisiana was down three. Texas was down two rigs. Oklahoma and New Mexico were each up one.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down one rig in Western Kansas and up one east of Wichita. The tally is up ten percent from a month ago, but down more than 26% from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County and one in Ellis County.Kansas regulators report 197 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last month, including five in Barton County and six in Ellis County. The Kansas Corporation Commission lists 1,188 new intents for the first nine months of the year, compared to 1,457 through October last year. So far this year, Barton County has 36 intents on file. Ellis County has 43. Russell County has five and Stafford County adds 24.Kansas regulators approved permits for drilling at 25 new locations last week, 14 in eastern Kansas and 11 west of Wichita, including one in Barton County. That's 1,140 new permits so far this year, compared to 1,436 a year ago, a drop of about 20%.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 52 newly-completed wells across the state, with 33 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, five in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Friday at $77.17 per barrel, up more than a dollar on the day. But in the last week that price is down more than three dollars, in the last two weeks it's down eight dollars, and in the last three weeks it's down more than eleven dollars a barrel. In morning trading Monday prices were up more than sixty cents. London Brent rose above $82 a barrel and WTI was just a few cents shy of $78.As goes Citgo, so goes Venezuelan refining. It could take several months, but three refineries are included in the upcoming auction of the Venezuelan company Citgo as part of the U.S. move to relax sanctions against that country.&nbsp; According to the Energy Information Administration, the three refineries together account for about five percent of U.S. refining capacity. The refineries are built for the sour, heavy crude grades once supplied by Venezuelan oil fields. On October 23, &nbsp;marketing materials were offered to potential buyers, marking the formal beginning of the process to auction off the company.Petroleum rail shipments were one of nine cargo categories that saw increases in October according to the Association of American Railroads, which noted an increase of 5,046 carloads or 14.2 percent over last year. Oil-by-rail traffic for the week through October 28 was up more than 13% over a year ago. At 9,976 tanker carloads, rail shipments increased by 33 carloads over the week before.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. crude production pegged for growth

Kansas Tourism representatives dropped off a $12,200 check to the Great Bend Convention
and Visitors Bureau Tuesday morning to help create a new amenity at Veterans
Lake. Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, has a
mission to inspire travel and bring new visitors to the state. 

Kansas Tourism
Director Bridgette Jobe said the grant will help pay for a kayak rental service
at Vets Lake.


"We take applications, and we are on a road trip to 14 different communities to present giant checks," said Jobe. "They are for communities with something new that will bring new visitors to the community. We were very pleased to see that Great Bend has an idea to keep visitors here longer."

The Great Bend Recreation Commission went over survey results at their board
meeting Monday that showed most people were in favor of and would like to try a
kayak rental service. The grant will assist in the expense to have eight kayaks
or paddleboards available to rent, along with paddles and lifejackets. 


City Administrator Brandon Anderson said a location at Vets Lake and the rental
price are still being determined, but he was hopeful the service will be available
to the public by next spring.


"We're still in the early stages of figuring out the price for the rentals," said Anderson. "Ultimately, this project will go to the Great Bend City Council to get final approval. We think it will be a good project that, with this funding from the state, will help push it to the finish line."

Great Bend was among 14 communities across the state that was selected for the
fall 2023 round of Attraction Development Grants.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699981878751.jpeg" alt="Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson, Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe, Great Bend CVB Director Christina Hayes and Great Bend Recreation Commission Marketing Director Megan Hammeke.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson, Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe, Great Bend CVB Director Christina Hayes and Great Bend Recreation Commission Marketing Director Megan Hammeke.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostKansas Tourism representatives dropped off a $12,200 check to the Great Bend Convention
and Visitors Bureau Tuesday morning to help create a new amenity at Veterans
Lake. Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, has a
mission to inspire travel and bring new visitors to the state. Kansas Tourism
Director Bridgette Jobe said the grant will help pay for a kayak rental service
at Vets Lake.
"We take applications, and we are on a road trip to 14 different communities to present giant checks," said Jobe. "They are for communities with something new that will bring new visitors to the community. We were very pleased to see that Great Bend has an idea to keep visitors here longer."The Great Bend Recreation Commission went over survey results at their board
meeting Monday that showed most people were in favor of and would like to try a
kayak rental service. The grant will assist in the expense to have eight kayaks
or paddleboards available to rent, along with paddles and lifejackets. 
City Administrator Brandon Anderson said a location at Vets Lake and the rental
price are still being determined, but he was hopeful the service will be available
to the public by next spring.
"We're still in the early stages of figuring out the price for the rentals," said Anderson. "Ultimately, this project will go to the Great Bend City Council to get final approval. We think it will be a good project that, with this funding from the state, will help push it to the finish line."Great Bend was among 14 communities across the state that was selected for the
fall 2023 round of Attraction Development Grants.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend receives grant for new feature at Vets Lake

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Audobon's Christmas Bird Count is the nation's longest-running community science bird project. The 124th annual bird count runs nationwide from Dec. 14, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2024. Cheyenne Bottoms has held its own event for more than 50 years. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said local bird watchers can participate on Monday, Dec. 18.

"Bird watchers go out and try to document and count all the bird species they can find within a 24-hour period," Wolf said. "The information is compiled through the National Audobon Society to try to document trends in bird populations across the world."

The Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. that day. Lunch is provided, and KWEC staff asks that counters participate for at least half the day. Pre-registration is required, and KWEC will pair bird watchers of different skill levels to make it an educational and enjoyable event.&nbsp;Bird counters will be assigned to a defined area.

"If people have a pair of binoculars, that's probably the most important tool for any bird watching to be done," Wolf said. "Even if they don't and would like to learn a little bit, we have pairs of binoculars here we can loan out for the day."

Some 40 bird counts will take place around Kansas in the allotted period. Approximately 80 species of birds are typically spotted during the Cheyenne Bottoms count. Last year, the number fell to 61. Call KWEC at (877) 243-9268 to reserve a spot in this year's count.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699889973238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAudobon's Christmas Bird Count is the nation's longest-running community science bird project. The 124th annual bird count runs nationwide from Dec. 14, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2024. Cheyenne Bottoms has held its own event for more than 50 years. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said local bird watchers can participate on Monday, Dec. 18."Bird watchers go out and try to document and count all the bird species they can find within a 24-hour period," Wolf said. "The information is compiled through the National Audobon Society to try to document trends in bird populations across the world."The Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. that day. Lunch is provided, and KWEC staff asks that counters participate for at least half the day. Pre-registration is required, and KWEC will pair bird watchers of different skill levels to make it an educational and enjoyable event.&nbsp;Bird counters will be assigned to a defined area."If people have a pair of binoculars, that's probably the most important tool for any bird watching to be done," Wolf said. "Even if they don't and would like to learn a little bit, we have pairs of binoculars here we can loan out for the day."Some 40 bird counts will take place around Kansas in the allotted period. Approximately 80 species of birds are typically spotted during the Cheyenne Bottoms count. Last year, the number fell to 61. Call KWEC at (877) 243-9268 to reserve a spot in this year's count.

Volunteers needed for Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count Dec. 18

BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Nov. 14 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOM

1. October Financial Statement – Mark Dean

2. BASICS Report – Chris Baker/Nicole Barr

3. 2023 Interactive Science Educator Award – Elaine Simmons/Latoya Hill

4. Board of Trustee Self Evaluations – Chairman Johnson

5. Hispanic Engagement and Recruitment Office (HERO) – Baudilio Hernandez

6. ENDS Statement Review – Todd Mobray

7. 2023 Campus Safety Report – Lucas Stoelting

8. Presidential Search – Chairman Johnson

9. Dr. Heilman approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Memorandum of Agreement &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Performance Agreement; Kansas Board of Regents &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request (under $50,000) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Innovative Technology Grant - virtual reality training simulator for Criminal Justice program; Kansas Board of Regents &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 2023 Capacity Building Grant Program - 1-yr internship, part-time employee position for Barton Food Pantry/Cougar Closet operations; Sunflower Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request (over $50,000) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Jobs &amp; Innovative Industry Skills Training (JIIST) - 2 ambulance simulators, for placement at Great Bend and Grandview Plaza Campuses for EMT/AEMT/Paramedic; Kansas Department of Commerce &nbsp; &nbsp; Nursing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Pratt Health and Rehab; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 2 + 2 Articulation Agreement – Barclay College; Haviland, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fort HealthCare Hospital; Fort Atkinson, WI &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Mercy Health North, LLC; Mercy Health Physicians – North, LLC; Mercy Medical Partners, Northern Region, LLC; Toledo, OH &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Sheridan County Health Complex; Hoxie, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma, LLC; Oklahoma City, OK &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Med Center Health Facility; Bowling Green, KY &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Rebud Pediatrics; Wichita, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Ellis County Health Department; Hays, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Nov. 14 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZOOMDiscussion Topics1. October Financial Statement – Mark Dean2. BASICS Report – Chris Baker/Nicole Barr3. 2023 Interactive Science Educator Award – Elaine Simmons/Latoya Hill4. Board of Trustee Self Evaluations – Chairman Johnson5. Hispanic Engagement and Recruitment Office (HERO) – Baudilio Hernandez6. ENDS Statement Review – Todd Mobray7. 2023 Campus Safety Report – Lucas Stoelting8. Presidential Search – Chairman Johnson9. Dr. Heilman approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Memorandum of Agreement &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Performance Agreement; Kansas Board of Regents &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request (under $50,000) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas Innovative Technology Grant - virtual reality training simulator for Criminal Justice program; Kansas Board of Regents &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 2023 Capacity Building Grant Program - 1-yr internship, part-time employee position for Barton Food Pantry/Cougar Closet operations; Sunflower Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request (over $50,000) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Jobs &amp; Innovative Industry Skills Training (JIIST) - 2 ambulance simulators, for placement at Great Bend and Grandview Plaza Campuses for EMT/AEMT/Paramedic; Kansas Department of Commerce &nbsp; &nbsp; Nursing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Pratt Health and Rehab; Pratt, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • 2 + 2 Articulation Agreement – Barclay College; Haviland, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Fort HealthCare Hospital; Fort Atkinson, WI &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Mercy Health North, LLC; Mercy Health Physicians – North, LLC; Mercy Medical Partners, Northern Region, LLC; Toledo, OH &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Sheridan County Health Complex; Hoxie, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma, LLC; Oklahoma City, OK &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Med Center Health Facility; Bowling Green, KY &nbsp; &nbsp; Medical Assistant &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Rebud Pediatrics; Wichita, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Ellis County Health Department; Hays, KS

BCC Trustees study session agenda (11/14)

On Sunday, Nov. 12, at approximately 4:30 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Ford Fusion pulling into the Walgreen's parking lot for illegal window tint. The driver was identified as Shawna Contrerez, age 34. 

During this time, the front passenger identified as Stephen Arnold, age 37, exited the front passenger seat with a backpack and left on foot into Walgreen's.

K9 Menta arrived on scene and was utilized to conduct a free air sniff of the vehicle. After a positive alert of the odor of narcotics in the vehicle, officers entered into Walgreen's, located and detained Arnold.&nbsp; Officers conducted a search of the vehicle. During the search, officers located methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, controlled substance and marijuana.

Contrerez and Arnold were arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Contrerez was booked in for illegal window tint as well. Both were transported to the Barton County Jail where they were booked and confined in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

If anyone has any information regarding these cases or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699979770994.jpeg" alt="Shawna Contrerez&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shawna Contrerez&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday, Nov. 12, at approximately 4:30 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Ford Fusion pulling into the Walgreen's parking lot for illegal window tint. The driver was identified as Shawna Contrerez, age 34. During this time, the front passenger identified as Stephen Arnold, age 37, exited the front passenger seat with a backpack and left on foot into Walgreen's.K9 Menta arrived on scene and was utilized to conduct a free air sniff of the vehicle. After a positive alert of the odor of narcotics in the vehicle, officers entered into Walgreen's, located and detained Arnold.&nbsp; Officers conducted a search of the vehicle. During the search, officers located methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, controlled substance and marijuana.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699979802425.jpeg" alt="Stephen Arnold" />
 <figcaption>Stephen Arnold</figcaption>
 </figure>Contrerez and Arnold were arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Contrerez was booked in for illegal window tint as well. Both were transported to the Barton County Jail where they were booked and confined in lieu of a $10,000 bond.If anyone has any information regarding these cases or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Pair arrested in Great Bend parking lot for drug possession

The Great Bend Recreation Commission received mostly positive feedback
from an online survey gauging the public’s interest in a kayak and paddleboard
rental service. Of those that filled out the survey, 81% responded they would
likely try kayaking if it was available in town. The response to if you would
try paddleboarding in the future was at 73%. 

Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres
said Rent.Fun would charge $18,000 to install lockers near a local lake that
would provide four kayaks or paddleboards for the public to rent.


"I think the public got shocked the first time it went out that it's $18,000 because they thought that was per year," said Umphres. "That's the cost for the full five years. I believe it's $26,000 for the 8-unit locker. A grant through the city can offset that."

The City of Great Bend is onboard with the idea and secured a $12,200 grant from the State of Kansas that will offset the expense for the Rec to purchase the 8-unit locker. 

Rent.Fun offered a market
rate fee structure of charging $25 for a two-hour rental or $75 for an annual
pass. The rental fees would be split amongst Rent.Fun and the Rec Commission.


"I don't look at it as a big recoup of money," said Umphres. "I think this is more of a city service that we get people involved. We're looking for other ways to bring recreation to the public."

The online survey showed the public was in favor of having the kayaks located
at Veterans Lake. Umphres will bring a more detailed proposal for the Rec Board’s
approval at next month’s meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Recreation Commission received mostly positive feedback
from an online survey gauging the public’s interest in a kayak and paddleboard
rental service. Of those that filled out the survey, 81% responded they would
likely try kayaking if it was available in town. The response to if you would
try paddleboarding in the future was at 73%. Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres
said Rent.Fun would charge $18,000 to install lockers near a local lake that
would provide four kayaks or paddleboards for the public to rent.
"I think the public got shocked the first time it went out that it's $18,000 because they thought that was per year," said Umphres. "That's the cost for the full five years. I believe it's $26,000 for the 8-unit locker. A grant through the city can offset that."The City of Great Bend is onboard with the idea and secured a $12,200 grant from the State of Kansas that will offset the expense for the Rec to purchase the 8-unit locker. Rent.Fun offered a market
rate fee structure of charging $25 for a two-hour rental or $75 for an annual
pass. The rental fees would be split amongst Rent.Fun and the Rec Commission.
"I don't look at it as a big recoup of money," said Umphres. "I think this is more of a city service that we get people involved. We're looking for other ways to bring recreation to the public."The online survey showed the public was in favor of having the kayaks located
at Veterans Lake. Umphres will bring a more detailed proposal for the Rec Board’s
approval at next month’s meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Positive feedback for kayak rentals at Vets Lake in Great Bend

As the old adage goes, there is nothing certain except death and taxes. Part of that certainty has included receiving those property tax statements in the mail. Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan announced at Tuesday's commission meeting that property owners will have options beginning with this year's tax statements.

"This year when they get their tax statement they'll have a little code in there," he said. "They can go to a website, fill it out, and be able to get their taxes emailed to them. Once taxes are ready next year, we'll send an email out to everybody that says they can get their taxes online."

Jordan said the county sends approximately 61 cents a parcel to mail the statements, but the email system would cost the county just 14 cents per statement. Opting into an emailed statement is entirely up to property owners, and Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson saw the benefits of the new system.

"If somebody has 15-20 properties, all those properties are going to one email," he said. "They don't have to go to every one of those mailboxes or change the mailing addresses for each property to get them all in one place. That will be handy."

In an effort to increase transparency, this year's tax statements will also feature a pie chart showing the general allocation of tax dollars in Barton County and how each taxing entity increased or decreased tax rates from the year before. Property-specific pie charts will be available via the county website by <a href="https://ks761.cichosting.com/ttp/tax/Search/search_tax.aspx">CLICKING HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568596588417.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAs the old adage goes, there is nothing certain except death and taxes. Part of that certainty has included receiving those property tax statements in the mail. Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan announced at Tuesday's commission meeting that property owners will have options beginning with this year's tax statements."This year when they get their tax statement they'll have a little code in there," he said. "They can go to a website, fill it out, and be able to get their taxes emailed to them. Once taxes are ready next year, we'll send an email out to everybody that says they can get their taxes online."Jordan said the county sends approximately 61 cents a parcel to mail the statements, but the email system would cost the county just 14 cents per statement. Opting into an emailed statement is entirely up to property owners, and Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson saw the benefits of the new system."If somebody has 15-20 properties, all those properties are going to one email," he said. "They don't have to go to every one of those mailboxes or change the mailing addresses for each property to get them all in one place. That will be handy."In an effort to increase transparency, this year's tax statements will also feature a pie chart showing the general allocation of tax dollars in Barton County and how each taxing entity increased or decreased tax rates from the year before. Property-specific pie charts will be available via the county website by <a href="https://ks761.cichosting.com/ttp/tax/Search/search_tax.aspx">CLICKING HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Barton County to offer property taxes via email

11/9 BOOKED: Nathan Cartlich on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Roberto Millan-Adame on Barton County District Court Case for Driving without a License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Liola Montoya-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with Law Enforcement, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Roberto Millan-Adame on Barton County District Court Case for Driving without a License, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Michael Schneider on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribute Certain Hallucinogen, on $20,000 OR bond.

11/10 BOOKED: Cristian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court Case for DUI Under 21, No Driver's License, Basic Speed Rules, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Meda Gutierrez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO, Domestic Battery, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Mason Gunter on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Shea Emig on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness and Battery, bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeffery Martinez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Meda Gutierrez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO, Domestic Battery, and Interference with LEO, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Robert Langer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Theft and Possession of Stolen Property, on 48-hour OR bond.

11/11 BOOKED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jose Garcia-Castro on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Improper Driving, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District warrant for Stalking, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jose Garcia-Castro on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Improper Driving, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Cristian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court Case for DUI Under 21, No Driver's License, Basic Speed Rules, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Jeffery Martinez on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

11/12 BOOKED: Justice Manning on Barton County District Court case for Expired Registration, Expired Driver's License, and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, One Way Glass and Screening Device, bond at at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Justice Manning on Barton County District Court case for Expired Registration, Expired Driver's License, and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonds.

RELEASED: Mason Gunter on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, One Way Glass and Screening Device, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

11/13 BOOKED: Rickie Bell on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Violent Offender Registration, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Deciderio Suarez-Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Open Burning.

BOOKED: Makenna Galliart on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $407 cash only or 28 days.

RELEASED: Janet Debe, to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

RELEASED: Richard Etim on Barton County District Court warrant, for time served; and released to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office on their charges.

RELEASED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District warrant for Stalking; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting total surety bond of $15,000 through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Deciderio Suarez-Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Open Burning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/9 BOOKED: Nathan Cartlich on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Roberto Millan-Adame on Barton County District Court Case for Driving without a License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Hailey Lewis on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Liola Montoya-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with Law Enforcement, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Roberto Millan-Adame on Barton County District Court Case for Driving without a License, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Michael Schneider on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribute Certain Hallucinogen, on $20,000 OR bond.11/10 BOOKED: Cristian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court Case for DUI Under 21, No Driver's License, Basic Speed Rules, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Meda Gutierrez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO, Domestic Battery, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Mason Gunter on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Shea Emig on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness and Battery, bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeffery Martinez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Meda Gutierrez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO, Domestic Battery, and Interference with LEO, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Robert Langer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Theft and Possession of Stolen Property, on 48-hour OR bond.11/11 BOOKED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jose Garcia-Castro on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Improper Driving, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District warrant for Stalking, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jose Garcia-Castro on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Improper Driving, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Cristian Bujanda-Lusero on Great Bend Municipal Court Case for DUI Under 21, No Driver's License, Basic Speed Rules, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Jeffery Martinez on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.11/12 BOOKED: Justice Manning on Barton County District Court case for Expired Registration, Expired Driver's License, and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, One Way Glass and Screening Device, bond at at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Justice Manning on Barton County District Court case for Expired Registration, Expired Driver's License, and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bonds.RELEASED: Mason Gunter on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.&nbsp;RELEASED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.&nbsp;RELEASED: Shawna Contrerez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, One Way Glass and Screening Device, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Stephen Arnold, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.11/13 BOOKED: Rickie Bell on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Violent Offender Registration, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Deciderio Suarez-Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Open Burning.BOOKED: Makenna Galliart on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $407 cash only or 28 days.RELEASED: Janet Debe, to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.RELEASED: Richard Etim on Barton County District Court warrant, for time served; and released to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office on their charges.RELEASED: Aaron Newsome on Barton County District warrant for Stalking; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting total surety bond of $15,000 through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Deciderio Suarez-Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Open Burning.

Barton County Sheriff's office booking activity (11/9 - 11/13)

Once every five years, Great Bend Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau
Director Christina Hayes likes to pay for a Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) report
from the State of Kansas. The report dives into what dates and events causes
jumps in a municipality’s tax collection. Whether a change in sales or
transient tax is positively or negatively impacted, the results are not usually
felt until several months later. 

Hayes said it is a waiting game to see if this
year’s tax collection numbers drop due to the cancellation of the SRCA
Dragstrip racing season this past summer. There are also concerns of fewer tax
dollars circulating due to weakened hunting conditions at nearby Cheyenne
Bottoms.


"The Cheyenne Bottoms is dry and so is Quivira," said Hayes. "That really impacts us too. I think I heard on teal season, the Bottoms typically has 800 hunters out there, and it was only 100 this year. Now, are all of those hunters staying here? No, but look at the difference right there...700 people. That's a lot."

Great Bend collected $434,649 in transient guest tax in 2022. The 6% guest tax
is applied to anyone that rents a room at a motel or Airbnb in town. The 2022
amount was the most ever collected. Hayes accredits the banner year because
local hotels slightly increased their rates last year, and the Great Bend
Events Center, Sports Complex and SRCA Dragstrip were constantly booked and
bringing out-of-town visitors. 

With many hunting guides and tours in the area,
Hayes felt those dollars could help in the future.


"If hunters do stay in a lodge and eat all of their meals at the lodge, that's not really impacting us, other than the lodge owners purchasing their food and ammo in town," said Hayes. "At this point, hunting lodges don't pay transient guest tax. I think that might be something coming down the pike from the state. I've heard talks on how lodges are technically a bed and breakfast. It's an overnight stay. If it has more than one or two rooms, it should be paying."

The transient guest tax is used to fund the Great Bend Convention &amp;
Visitors Bureau and the Events Center.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589988418787.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostOnce every five years, Great Bend Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau
Director Christina Hayes likes to pay for a Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) report
from the State of Kansas. The report dives into what dates and events causes
jumps in a municipality’s tax collection. Whether a change in sales or
transient tax is positively or negatively impacted, the results are not usually
felt until several months later. Hayes said it is a waiting game to see if this
year’s tax collection numbers drop due to the cancellation of the SRCA
Dragstrip racing season this past summer. There are also concerns of fewer tax
dollars circulating due to weakened hunting conditions at nearby Cheyenne
Bottoms.
"The Cheyenne Bottoms is dry and so is Quivira," said Hayes. "That really impacts us too. I think I heard on teal season, the Bottoms typically has 800 hunters out there, and it was only 100 this year. Now, are all of those hunters staying here? No, but look at the difference right there...700 people. That's a lot."Great Bend collected $434,649 in transient guest tax in 2022. The 6% guest tax
is applied to anyone that rents a room at a motel or Airbnb in town. The 2022
amount was the most ever collected. Hayes accredits the banner year because
local hotels slightly increased their rates last year, and the Great Bend
Events Center, Sports Complex and SRCA Dragstrip were constantly booked and
bringing out-of-town visitors. With many hunting guides and tours in the area,
Hayes felt those dollars could help in the future.
"If hunters do stay in a lodge and eat all of their meals at the lodge, that's not really impacting us, other than the lodge owners purchasing their food and ammo in town," said Hayes. "At this point, hunting lodges don't pay transient guest tax. I think that might be something coming down the pike from the state. I've heard talks on how lodges are technically a bed and breakfast. It's an overnight stay. If it has more than one or two rooms, it should be paying."The transient guest tax is used to fund the Great Bend Convention &amp;
Visitors Bureau and the Events Center.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend keeping watchful eye on sales tax impact

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41. South wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 70. South southwest wind 7 to 11 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 61.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 66.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 43.

Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Monday A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 52. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41. South wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 70. South southwest wind 7 to 11 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 47. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.Friday Sunny, with a high near 61.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 66.Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 43.Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.Monday A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 52. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582317306080.jpeg" alt="The USD 428 Board of Education accepted the retirement of Great Bend High School Principal Tim Friess, effective June 1, 2024, during Monday's meeting." />
 <figcaption>The USD 428 Board of Education accepted the retirement of Great Bend High School Principal Tim Friess, effective June 1, 2024, during Monday's meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699928114181.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

USD 428 accepts retirement of principal Tim Friess

The Kansas Legislature accomplished several things when it passed Senate Bill 113 last May, including improving school safety, supporting the teacher workforce, and investing in early childhood education. Another component of that bill gave the state legislature first right of refusal on the purchase of property to be sold by school districts. Monday night, USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton began the new process to sell three properties owned by the Great Bend school district.

"Really, this just checks the box off for the legislature on the new statute that was passed in order to dispose of a building," he told the board. "Is there a chance the legislature will want one or all of these buildings? Sure. But I highly doubt it. There's discussion this law may be adjusted to only take in attendance centers so that these kind of buildings would not be considered under this."

The resolution passed Monday by the board includes the former central kitchen building at 2201 Broadway, the former maintenance and transportation building at 2019 12th Street, and the current district office at 201 S. Patton. The kitchen and maintenance departments have been moved into the Support Services Building on East 10th Street. The district office will move into the new District Education Center along the 281 Bypass.

"I figured because the way the timing is with our legislature, I'd like to go ahead and include the current district office in that list," said. "By the time we get out of here, it will be closer to summer, but then that would mean we have to hold this building until January 2025 before we can sell it."

With the adoption of the resolution Monday, the district has 30 days to submit a letter of intent to the Kansas Legislature. The governing body will have 45 days once it reconvenes in January to decide whether it is interested in the property, not interested, or needs more time to make a decision. Monday's resolution does not say when the properties must be sold, just that the district intends to sell them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594824975671.jpeg" alt="The current USD 428 District Office building located at 201 S. Patton in Great Bend is one of three properties the district intends to sell." />
 <figcaption>The current USD 428 District Office building located at 201 S. Patton in Great Bend is one of three properties the district intends to sell.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Kansas Legislature accomplished several things when it passed Senate Bill 113 last May, including improving school safety, supporting the teacher workforce, and investing in early childhood education. Another component of that bill gave the state legislature first right of refusal on the purchase of property to be sold by school districts. Monday night, USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton began the new process to sell three properties owned by the Great Bend school district."Really, this just checks the box off for the legislature on the new statute that was passed in order to dispose of a building," he told the board. "Is there a chance the legislature will want one or all of these buildings? Sure. But I highly doubt it. There's discussion this law may be adjusted to only take in attendance centers so that these kind of buildings would not be considered under this."The resolution passed Monday by the board includes the former central kitchen building at 2201 Broadway, the former maintenance and transportation building at 2019 12th Street, and the current district office at 201 S. Patton. The kitchen and maintenance departments have been moved into the Support Services Building on East 10th Street. The district office will move into the new District Education Center along the 281 Bypass."I figured because the way the timing is with our legislature, I'd like to go ahead and include the current district office in that list," said. "By the time we get out of here, it will be closer to summer, but then that would mean we have to hold this building until January 2025 before we can sell it."With the adoption of the resolution Monday, the district has 30 days to submit a letter of intent to the Kansas Legislature. The governing body will have 45 days once it reconvenes in January to decide whether it is interested in the property, not interested, or needs more time to make a decision. Monday's resolution does not say when the properties must be sold, just that the district intends to sell them.

USD 428 announces intent to sell three properties in Great Bend

The County Commission will meet as the Board of County Canvassers at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2023, in the Office of the County Clerk. At that time, they will canvass the November 7, 2023, Municipal General Election ballots.

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/3o8Adea. 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 Nov. 14 9:00 a.m. or following the close of the canvass 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. The minutes of the October 31, 2023, and the November 7, 2023, Regular Meetings are not available. &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. 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.

III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. TREASURER’S OFFICE: Tax Statements: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will present details. In general, taxpayers should receive real estate, personal property and oil and gas tax statements for the current year on or after November 1st, but no later than December 15th of each year. New to the process this year is eNotices. This online statement&nbsp;presentment program allows residents to receive their tax statements electronically at a designated email address. In addition, payment can be made through eNotices, on-line through the County’s website or in person at 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. JUVENILE SERVICES: Return of FY23 Unspent Funds: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will present details. The Kansas Department of Corrections has notified the department of the need to return certain unspent funding remaining from the FY23 allocation for the JCAB and&nbsp;Reinvestment Grants. In total, the amount to be returned to the State is $127,596.64. It is noted that the inability to hire staff for open positions for the majority of the grant period led to unspent funds.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COURTHOUSE HVAC IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: Additional Services – Sanitary Sewer / Bathroom Remodel / Domestic Water: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. With the Courthouse HVAC project underway, it is an appropriate time to replace water pipes throughout the building. Included will also be the replacement of certain water heaters, sanitary waste and vent piping as well as the renovation of certain first floor restrooms. OSE has submitted a $63,000.00 cost estimate to design this portion of the project.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson 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.

IV. 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; &nbsp; -The Commission will tour the new Ellinwood District Hospital, located at the intersection of Park Street and US 56 Highway, Ellinwood, Kansas, beginning at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Following the tour, the Commission will have a dinner with Ellinwood city officials at the Historical Wolf Hotel, 1 North Main, Ellinwood, Kansas. This will be followed by a joint meeting with the City of Ellinwood City Council at 6:00 p.m. in their Chambers, 104 East 2nd, Ellinwood, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Thursday, November 23, 2023, and Friday, November 24, 2023, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Barton County Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will be closed both days. The Barton County Landfill will be closed on Thursday, November 23. It will reopen on Friday, November 24, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. On Saturday, November 25, it will return to normal operational hours. Emergency services will be in normal operation. The next meeting of the Commission will be Wednesday, November 28, 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – IT Computer Replacement Project – Derrick Hollingshead, Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Barton County Conservation District Manager.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Program Overview – Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, is scheduled for November 16, 2023.

V. 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, November 28, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693230488223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The County Commission will meet as the Board of County Canvassers at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2023, in the Office of the County Clerk. At that time, they will canvass the November 7, 2023, Municipal General Election ballots.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/3o8Adea. 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 Nov. 14 9:00 a.m. or following the close of the canvass 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. The minutes of the October 31, 2023, and the November 7, 2023, Regular Meetings are not available. &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. 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.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. TREASURER’S OFFICE: Tax Statements: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will present details. In general, taxpayers should receive real estate, personal property and oil and gas tax statements for the current year on or after November 1st, but no later than December 15th of each year. New to the process this year is eNotices. This online statement&nbsp;presentment program allows residents to receive their tax statements electronically at a designated email address. In addition, payment can be made through eNotices, on-line through the County’s website or in person at 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. JUVENILE SERVICES: Return of FY23 Unspent Funds: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will present details. The Kansas Department of Corrections has notified the department of the need to return certain unspent funding remaining from the FY23 allocation for the JCAB and&nbsp;Reinvestment Grants. In total, the amount to be returned to the State is $127,596.64. It is noted that the inability to hire staff for open positions for the majority of the grant period led to unspent funds.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. COURTHOUSE HVAC IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: Additional Services – Sanitary Sewer / Bathroom Remodel / Domestic Water: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. With the Courthouse HVAC project underway, it is an appropriate time to replace water pipes throughout the building. Included will also be the replacement of certain water heaters, sanitary waste and vent piping as well as the renovation of certain first floor restrooms. OSE has submitted a $63,000.00 cost estimate to design this portion of the project.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson 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.IV. 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; &nbsp; -The Commission will tour the new Ellinwood District Hospital, located at the intersection of Park Street and US 56 Highway, Ellinwood, Kansas, beginning at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Following the tour, the Commission will have a dinner with Ellinwood city officials at the Historical Wolf Hotel, 1 North Main, Ellinwood, Kansas. This will be followed by a joint meeting with the City of Ellinwood City Council at 6:00 p.m. in their Chambers, 104 East 2nd, Ellinwood, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed on Thursday, November 23, 2023, and Friday, November 24, 2023, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Barton County Health Department and the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office will be closed both days. The Barton County Landfill will be closed on Thursday, November 23. It will reopen on Friday, November 24, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. On Saturday, November 25, it will return to normal operational hours. Emergency services will be in normal operation. The next meeting of the Commission will be Wednesday, November 28, 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – IT Computer Replacement Project – Derrick Hollingshead, Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Barton County Conservation District Manager.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Program Overview – Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, is scheduled for November 16, 2023.V. 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, November 28, 2023.VI. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (11/14)

On Friday, Nov. 10, at approximately 4:18 p.m., officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched on a call for service in reference to criminal threats.&nbsp; 

Barton County Dispatch transferred the reporting person to an officer.&nbsp; The officer was informed that the suspect, Shae Emig, age 48, made specific heinous threats of violence to a victim, and referenced a previous and pending case. 

Upon arrival, officers confirmed the previous case and the court date.&nbsp; Officers located Emig and arrested him on charges of aggravated intimidation of a witness and battery.&nbsp; Emig was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of a $40,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699915473357.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Friday, Nov. 10, at approximately 4:18 p.m., officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched on a call for service in reference to criminal threats.&nbsp; Barton County Dispatch transferred the reporting person to an officer.&nbsp; The officer was informed that the suspect, Shae Emig, age 48, made specific heinous threats of violence to a victim, and referenced a previous and pending case. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the previous case and the court date.&nbsp; Officers located Emig and arrested him on charges of aggravated intimidation of a witness and battery.&nbsp; Emig was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of a $40,000 bond.

Man arrested in Great Bend for aggravated intimidation of witness

Kansas Tourism today announced it will distribute $500,000 in Attraction Development Grants. The fall 2023 funding will be split amongst 14 communities across the state for tourism attractions that either are being developed new or having enhancements made to existing sites.

The Tourism Attraction Development Grant Program supports travel experiences that positively influence where individuals choose to visit, resulting in further economic impact through capital investment, job creation, revenue and increased visitation.

“Attraction Development Grants are a powerful investment in the economic growth and cultural richness of our state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said, “These funds further help to foster a deep appreciation for our diverse landscapes, heritage and the countless experiences that make Kansas a must-visit destination.”

In total, these grant recipients will invest more than $2,316,112 toward the approved projects.

“These grants play a pivotal role in enhancing our tourism attractions, allowing us to invest in innovative experiences that captivate visitors and strengthen our economy,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “They empower us to continually evolve and offer unique, memorable adventures that draw travelers from far and wide.”

To view the list of approved projects, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvYXR0cmFjdGlvbi1kZXZlbG9wbWVudC1ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTExMy44NTU1NjExMSJ9.VVDJwnwXubfvp8bjY8z6r4a6Zw6rg6OO5hs4FTPYE3Y/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

The next round of Attraction Development Grants opens February 1, 2024.&nbsp; For more information, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvYXR0cmFjdGlvbi1kZXZlbG9wbWVudC1ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTExMy44NTU1NjExMSJ9.FBKjvt28n1sjW0W3JOdM6H03v2KR5nv0fK9WO1itKSo/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Carrie Doud&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:carrie.doud@ks.gov">carrie.doud@ks.gov</a>. Funding for Kansas Tourism grants is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF) that is derived from state lottery proceeds.

For a full list of grants provided through the Kansas Department of Commerce, visit the Grants Calendar page&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9ncmFudHNjYWxlbmRhci8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMTEzLjg1NTU2MTExIn0.PTI2Ib0hJQff6wzLLFaAvuqJW455f2Ie3Rxe7PNOpL4/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575319731629.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Tourism today announced it will distribute $500,000 in Attraction Development Grants. The fall 2023 funding will be split amongst 14 communities across the state for tourism attractions that either are being developed new or having enhancements made to existing sites.The Tourism Attraction Development Grant Program supports travel experiences that positively influence where individuals choose to visit, resulting in further economic impact through capital investment, job creation, revenue and increased visitation.“Attraction Development Grants are a powerful investment in the economic growth and cultural richness of our state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said, “These funds further help to foster a deep appreciation for our diverse landscapes, heritage and the countless experiences that make Kansas a must-visit destination.”In total, these grant recipients will invest more than $2,316,112 toward the approved projects.“These grants play a pivotal role in enhancing our tourism attractions, allowing us to invest in innovative experiences that captivate visitors and strengthen our economy,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “They empower us to continually evolve and offer unique, memorable adventures that draw travelers from far and wide.”To view the list of approved projects, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvYXR0cmFjdGlvbi1kZXZlbG9wbWVudC1ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTExMy44NTU1NjExMSJ9.VVDJwnwXubfvp8bjY8z6r4a6Zw6rg6OO5hs4FTPYE3Y/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>.The next round of Attraction Development Grants opens February 1, 2024.&nbsp; For more information, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvYXR0cmFjdGlvbi1kZXZlbG9wbWVudC1ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTExMy44NTU1NjExMSJ9.FBKjvt28n1sjW0W3JOdM6H03v2KR5nv0fK9WO1itKSo/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Carrie Doud&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:carrie.doud@ks.gov">carrie.doud@ks.gov</a>. Funding for Kansas Tourism grants is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF) that is derived from state lottery proceeds.For a full list of grants provided through the Kansas Department of Commerce, visit the Grants Calendar page&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9ncmFudHNjYWxlbmRhci8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMTEzLjg1NTU2MTExIn0.PTI2Ib0hJQff6wzLLFaAvuqJW455f2Ie3Rxe7PNOpL4/s/1303136047/br/230623888311-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Tourism grant awardees announced: Great Bend included 

Marketing Maven Consulting, a brand management and design firm in Kansas, announced the addition of a new employee. Melissa DeLeon started with the company in early November as a Design and Digital Media Specialist. 

“Our firm continues to grow as we serve more clients around the state of Kansas," said Rachel Mawhirter, Marketing Maven's founder and owner. "Melissa is immensely talented, and she will be a huge asset to our company and our clients. Her impressive portfolio, positive attitude, and great sense of humor made her the perfect fit for this position."

DeLeon studied photography at Brigham Young University before moving to Kansas and finishing her Associate Degree in Liberal Arts at Butler Community College. In May of 2023, she graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. Prior to joining the Marketing Maven team, she was a social media and product designer, along with a photographer and videographer for Pioneer Balloon Company. 

“Growing up, I was always told that I should be an artist, but graphic design had never really come to mind until I was an Art Education major," said Melissa. "I was told that I’d be a good fit for the design program. It was a gut feeling that I ran with, and I fell in love with this career immediately.”

DeLeon's primary responsibilities at Marketing Maven will center around graphic design for logos, print materials, advertising, packaging, and digital media assets. But she will also work on website and photography projects. 

Outside of work, DeLong enjoys figure skating, photography, and cleaning and organizing her home. She also stays active as a stepmom and a cat-mom to three cats. Melissa lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband, David, and stepson, Nash.

“Some of my best decisions in life have been based on a gut feeling. When I met with the Marketing Maven team, it came so naturally and I felt like it was a perfect fit,” says Melissa. “I can already tell that I’m going to learn so much and have a ton of fun along the way!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699629631353.jpeg" alt="Melissa DeLeon" />
 <figcaption>Melissa DeLeon</figcaption>
 </figure>Marketing Maven Consulting, a brand management and design firm in Kansas, announced the addition of a new employee. Melissa DeLeon started with the company in early November as a Design and Digital Media Specialist. “Our firm continues to grow as we serve more clients around the state of Kansas," said Rachel Mawhirter, Marketing Maven's founder and owner. "Melissa is immensely talented, and she will be a huge asset to our company and our clients. Her impressive portfolio, positive attitude, and great sense of humor made her the perfect fit for this position."DeLeon studied photography at Brigham Young University before moving to Kansas and finishing her Associate Degree in Liberal Arts at Butler Community College. In May of 2023, she graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. Prior to joining the Marketing Maven team, she was a social media and product designer, along with a photographer and videographer for Pioneer Balloon Company. “Growing up, I was always told that I should be an artist, but graphic design had never really come to mind until I was an Art Education major," said Melissa. "I was told that I’d be a good fit for the design program. It was a gut feeling that I ran with, and I fell in love with this career immediately.”DeLeon's primary responsibilities at Marketing Maven will center around graphic design for logos, print materials, advertising, packaging, and digital media assets. But she will also work on website and photography projects. Outside of work, DeLong enjoys figure skating, photography, and cleaning and organizing her home. She also stays active as a stepmom and a cat-mom to three cats. Melissa lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband, David, and stepson, Nash.“Some of my best decisions in life have been based on a gut feeling. When I met with the Marketing Maven team, it came so naturally and I felt like it was a perfect fit,” says Melissa. “I can already tell that I’m going to learn so much and have a ton of fun along the way!”

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