Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED), brings back Fridays on Forest this Friday with a Kick-Off event on April 28, 2023, from 5 pm to 9 pm. The event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams St. to Main St., following the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. to open the entertainment district for the 3rd&nbsp;season.&nbsp;Lovegrass Music Festival Association (LMFA) has partnered with Great Bend Alive to&nbsp;bring three highly acclaimed bands, Gravel Yard from Arkansas, the Brook Blanche Band from Wichita, and Old Fangled from Lawrence, KS.&nbsp;

Fridays on Forest take place on the last Friday of the month from April to October. All are welcome and no ticket is needed for the free concert, this month's event is sponsored&nbsp;by Marmies Auto Group.&nbsp;As a reminder, no outside food or drinks come into the district, no drinks leave the consumption area, no smoking is permitted, and no pets are allowed.&nbsp;In addition to great music, attendees can purchase delicious food from our vendors: Lumpy’s, Los Dos Potrillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, Mock N'Roll, RePerks, and Yo Dog Wieners, as well as our alcohol vendors, Los Dos Potrillo’s, Lumpy’s, Charlie’s Place, and Dry Lake Brewing.&nbsp;

Great Bend Alive has been designated as a Kansas&nbsp;Main&nbsp;Street&nbsp;Program by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Great Bend Alive, the downtown development arm of Great Bend Economic Development, has a focus on historic preservation, events/promotion, development/economic vitality, and design/streetscape.&nbsp;

For more information about Great Bend Alive visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents</a>, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development):

The Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. is a public/private partnership focusing on the economic development efforts in Barton County, KS. Our mission is to improve the economic quality of life for working families in our community. We do this by creating&nbsp;jobs, through retention, recruitment and expansion of businesses, strengthening&nbsp;the workforce through recruitment, education and training, improving&nbsp;and increasing the number of living wage jobs, and expanding&nbsp;the tax base through increase capital investment.

For more information about GBED visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com</a>, call 620-796-2407. Sara Arnberger, President of Great Bend Economic Development, Inc., can be reached via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:director@gbedinc.com" target="_blank">director@gbedinc.com</a>.

About LMFA (Lovegrass Music Festival Association):

The LMFA, a Kansas 501C-3 charitable organization, was founded in 2017 by fellow Central Kansas residents who shared a desire to bring the bluegrass arts to their community. With that, an annual three-day bluegrass music festival was born at Lake Wilson State Park. August 10th-12, 2023 marks the 6th annual&nbsp;Lovegrass Music Festival. Each year the event has grown, with 1,200 attendees expected in 2023.

For more information about the Lovegrass Music Festival Association and the 2023 festival, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>. Aimee Riegel, President of Lovegrass Music Festival Association, can be reached via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@lovegrassmusicfestival.com" target="_blank">admin@lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682342857336.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED), brings back Fridays on Forest this Friday with a Kick-Off event on April 28, 2023, from 5 pm to 9 pm. The event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams St. to Main St., following the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. to open the entertainment district for the 3rd&nbsp;season.&nbsp;Lovegrass Music Festival Association (LMFA) has partnered with Great Bend Alive to&nbsp;bring three highly acclaimed bands, Gravel Yard from Arkansas, the Brook Blanche Band from Wichita, and Old Fangled from Lawrence, KS.&nbsp;Fridays on Forest take place on the last Friday of the month from April to October. All are welcome and no ticket is needed for the free concert, this month's event is sponsored&nbsp;by Marmies Auto Group.&nbsp;As a reminder, no outside food or drinks come into the district, no drinks leave the consumption area, no smoking is permitted, and no pets are allowed.&nbsp;In addition to great music, attendees can purchase delicious food from our vendors: Lumpy’s, Los Dos Potrillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, Mock N'Roll, RePerks, and Yo Dog Wieners, as well as our alcohol vendors, Los Dos Potrillo’s, Lumpy’s, Charlie’s Place, and Dry Lake Brewing.&nbsp;About Great Bend Alive:Great Bend Alive has been designated as a Kansas&nbsp;Main&nbsp;Street&nbsp;Program by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Great Bend Alive, the downtown development arm of Great Bend Economic Development, has a focus on historic preservation, events/promotion, development/economic vitality, and design/streetscape.&nbsp;For more information about Great Bend Alive visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents</a>, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development):The Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. is a public/private partnership focusing on the economic development efforts in Barton County, KS. Our mission is to improve the economic quality of life for working families in our community. We do this by creating&nbsp;jobs, through retention, recruitment and expansion of businesses, strengthening&nbsp;the workforce through recruitment, education and training, improving&nbsp;and increasing the number of living wage jobs, and expanding&nbsp;the tax base through increase capital investment.For more information about GBED visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com</a>, call 620-796-2407. Sara Arnberger, President of Great Bend Economic Development, Inc., can be reached via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:director@gbedinc.com" target="_blank">director@gbedinc.com</a>.About LMFA (Lovegrass Music Festival Association):The LMFA, a Kansas 501C-3 charitable organization, was founded in 2017 by fellow Central Kansas residents who shared a desire to bring the bluegrass arts to their community. With that, an annual three-day bluegrass music festival was born at Lake Wilson State Park. August 10th-12, 2023 marks the 6th annual&nbsp;Lovegrass Music Festival. Each year the event has grown, with 1,200 attendees expected in 2023.For more information about the Lovegrass Music Festival Association and the 2023 festival, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>. Aimee Riegel, President of Lovegrass Music Festival Association, can be reached via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@lovegrassmusicfestival.com" target="_blank">admin@lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>.

Great Bend's Fridays on Forest returns this week with kick-off event

Barton County sharing the love to law enforcement

Story by Joe Vinduska Photo by Courtney Liebl&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those seeking a credential as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) have the chance do so at no charge thanks to a generous anonymous donor and a collaboration between Barton Community College, Good Samaritan of Ellsworth, and an anonymous charitable donor.

The CNA class is set for June 5- July 30 with classes being every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 4p-9 p.m. The class is 90 hours in length and will last 8 weeks. Ten students will be selected for each class, with additional students added to a waitlist. After selection, applicants must still apply to Barton Community College and successfully pass a reading test prior to enrolling in the CNA class. Students must be 16 years of age by the first day of class. High School students must have written permission from a guardian and their high school principal to receive college credit. Students must also pass a background check, provide immunization records, and other requirements that will be communicated to students. To sign up, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/kPfdMzg9SG" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://forms.office.com/r/kPfdMzg9SG</a>.

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) are certified professionals that provide direct care to patients in hospitals and residents in long-term care facilities. CNAs assist with tasks including taking vitals, dressing, eating, toileting, bathing, and personal hygiene. Becoming a CNA is a chance to begin a long-term career in healthcare and opens the door to a wide variety of work settings. CNAs make a difference in the lives of the patients and residents they serve.

Registered Nurse Tami Birkholz is an Adjunct CNA instructor here at Barton Community College. This is her fifth summer teaching the CNA courses. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students will find her to be a competent, energetic instructor with a wealth of experience.

“I am thrilled to be teaching the 2023 CNA class and am hopeful that this year’s students will become active in the Ellsworth Medical community.”

For more information, please contact Adult Healthcare Programs Coordinator Tana Yellowwolf at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:yellowwolft@bartonccc.edu">yellowwolft@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9298.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682343227234.jpeg" alt="CNA students practice moving a patient with specialized equipment on the Barton campus during the spring semester." />
 <figcaption>CNA students practice moving a patient with specialized equipment on the Barton campus during the spring semester.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe Vinduska Photo by Courtney Liebl&nbsp;&nbsp;Those seeking a credential as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) have the chance do so at no charge thanks to a generous anonymous donor and a collaboration between Barton Community College, Good Samaritan of Ellsworth, and an anonymous charitable donor.The CNA class is set for June 5- July 30 with classes being every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 4p-9 p.m. The class is 90 hours in length and will last 8 weeks. Ten students will be selected for each class, with additional students added to a waitlist. After selection, applicants must still apply to Barton Community College and successfully pass a reading test prior to enrolling in the CNA class. Students must be 16 years of age by the first day of class. High School students must have written permission from a guardian and their high school principal to receive college credit. Students must also pass a background check, provide immunization records, and other requirements that will be communicated to students. To sign up, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/kPfdMzg9SG" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://forms.office.com/r/kPfdMzg9SG</a>.Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) are certified professionals that provide direct care to patients in hospitals and residents in long-term care facilities. CNAs assist with tasks including taking vitals, dressing, eating, toileting, bathing, and personal hygiene. Becoming a CNA is a chance to begin a long-term career in healthcare and opens the door to a wide variety of work settings. CNAs make a difference in the lives of the patients and residents they serve.Registered Nurse Tami Birkholz is an Adjunct CNA instructor here at Barton Community College. This is her fifth summer teaching the CNA courses. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students will find her to be a competent, energetic instructor with a wealth of experience.“I am thrilled to be teaching the 2023 CNA class and am hopeful that this year’s students will become active in the Ellsworth Medical community.”For more information, please contact Adult Healthcare Programs Coordinator Tana Yellowwolf at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:yellowwolft@bartonccc.edu">yellowwolft@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9298.

Barton Community College offers CNA courses on scholarship in Ellsworth

In light of recent announcements made by another radio station claiming to be the "New Home for the Chiefs," B104.3 The Point wants to reassure the public and Kansas City Chiefs fans that Chiefs Football is not leaving the station. B104.3 The Point has been the proud home of the Chiefs for the past 20 years and will continue to broadcast their games through our 2024 contract and beyond.

We are grateful to our loyal Chiefs fans in Central Kansas who have been tuning in to B104.3 for the past two decades. Your unwavering support has made it possible for us to bring the excitement and energy of Chiefs Football, including unforgettable Super Bowl victories and thrilling plays, to a passionate audience in our region.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to our sponsors who have played a significant role in supporting these broadcasts. Your commitment to providing quality programming for our listeners is invaluable, and we look forward to many more years of partnership.

As we continue to carry Chiefs Football, we pledge to provide comprehensive coverage and thrilling play-by-play action, ensuring fans never miss a moment of their favorite team. We are excited about the future and look forward to serving the Chiefs community in Central Kansas for years to come.

B104.3 the Point is an Eagle Communications station licensed to Great Bend, KS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604702295823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In light of recent announcements made by another radio station claiming to be the "New Home for the Chiefs," B104.3 The Point wants to reassure the public and Kansas City Chiefs fans that Chiefs Football is not leaving the station. B104.3 The Point has been the proud home of the Chiefs for the past 20 years and will continue to broadcast their games through our 2024 contract and beyond.We are grateful to our loyal Chiefs fans in Central Kansas who have been tuning in to B104.3 for the past two decades. Your unwavering support has made it possible for us to bring the excitement and energy of Chiefs Football, including unforgettable Super Bowl victories and thrilling plays, to a passionate audience in our region.We would also like to extend our appreciation to our sponsors who have played a significant role in supporting these broadcasts. Your commitment to providing quality programming for our listeners is invaluable, and we look forward to many more years of partnership.As we continue to carry Chiefs Football, we pledge to provide comprehensive coverage and thrilling play-by-play action, ensuring fans never miss a moment of their favorite team. We are excited about the future and look forward to serving the Chiefs community in Central Kansas for years to come.B104.3 the Point is an Eagle Communications station licensed to Great Bend, KS.

Kansas City Chiefs Football to remain on B104.3 The Point

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Growing the perfect garden requires a few things: a green thumb, some water and light, and a little land. Not everyone has those things. The Victory Garden of Barton County is now accepting applications for the use of 10 raised beds located at the Barton County Historical Society south of Great Bend. Barton County Conservation District Manager Veronica Coons said the boxes are eight feet by three feet, a perfect size for gardeners.

"Five of them are kind of low-to-the-ground raised beds and five of them are beds that are a comfort height that you don't have to get down on the ground to garden," she said. "Those would be ideal for disabled or senior citizens, or anyone who has issues getting down on the ground."

Gardeners can plant herbs, flowers, vegetables, or anything that is legal in the state of Kansas and not considered a noxious weed. 

"It doesn't have to be exclusively vegetables because we're also encouraging people to learn and grow flowers that attract pollinators," Coons said. "That helps everybody in the garden."

There is no fee for using the boxes. Water will be supplied, as will limited tools, though gardeners are encouraged to bring their own hand tools. The boxes will be available through Nov. 1, and gardeners are expected to follow common-courtesy rules of upkeep.

Printed applications are available at the Barton County Historical Museum or the Barton County Conservation District Office at 926 Patton in Great Bend. For questions or to obtain an application to print at home, call (620) 792-3346. Applications are due by Thursday, April 27, and the boxes will be handed out in a lottery-style drawing the following day. A second-round of the process will follow if all 10 boxes are not assigned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658763799966.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGrowing the perfect garden requires a few things: a green thumb, some water and light, and a little land. Not everyone has those things. The Victory Garden of Barton County is now accepting applications for the use of 10 raised beds located at the Barton County Historical Society south of Great Bend. Barton County Conservation District Manager Veronica Coons said the boxes are eight feet by three feet, a perfect size for gardeners."Five of them are kind of low-to-the-ground raised beds and five of them are beds that are a comfort height that you don't have to get down on the ground to garden," she said. "Those would be ideal for disabled or senior citizens, or anyone who has issues getting down on the ground."Gardeners can plant herbs, flowers, vegetables, or anything that is legal in the state of Kansas and not considered a noxious weed. "It doesn't have to be exclusively vegetables because we're also encouraging people to learn and grow flowers that attract pollinators," Coons said. "That helps everybody in the garden."There is no fee for using the boxes. Water will be supplied, as will limited tools, though gardeners are encouraged to bring their own hand tools. The boxes will be available through Nov. 1, and gardeners are expected to follow common-courtesy rules of upkeep.Printed applications are available at the Barton County Historical Museum or the Barton County Conservation District Office at 926 Patton in Great Bend. For questions or to obtain an application to print at home, call (620) 792-3346. Applications are due by Thursday, April 27, and the boxes will be handed out in a lottery-style drawing the following day. A second-round of the process will follow if all 10 boxes are not assigned.

Barton Co. Victory Garden accepting applications for raised bed gardens

4/21 BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Roger Kornegay on Pratt County District Court warrant for Making False Information, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeremy Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $20,000 C/S; and on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $290 cash only.

BOOKED: Sean Brown on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 OR bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Phillip Pardon on five Barton County District Court warrants for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Driving Under the Influence, Operating a Vehicle without a License, No Insurance, Failure to Appear, Burglary, Criminal Threat, Criminal Damage to Property, Criminal Threat, Stalking, Burglary, Interference with LEO, Stalking, Violation of Protection Order, Criminal Trespass, Theft, and Burglary; and on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation. Released to Rice County with no bond set.

RELEASED: Mark Caton on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after 48-hours served.

RELEASED: Anna Marie Gates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, DUI, and Failure to Maintain Lane, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

4/22 BOOKED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jonathan Whisnant on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 cash only.&nbsp;

BOOKED: Timothy Galliart on&nbsp;Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Battery DV, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christopher Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Kansas Registered Offender Act, bond set at $40,000 C/S; on Barton County District Court warrant for Felony Flee and Elude, Interference with LEO, and Criminal Damage &lt;$1,0000, Driving without a valid License, Reckless Driving, Improper turn/signal/stop, Improper Turn or Approach, Speeding, Driving without Headlamps when Required, Improper Driving on Laned Roadway, and Failure to Stop x3, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $60,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Marvin Lewis, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Jonathan Whisnant on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Timothy Galliart on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Battery DV, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

4/23 BOOKED: Mitchell Alexander on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Endangering a Child, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: William Brayton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Expired Registration, and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Leonard Boese on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael Kelley on Barton County District Court warrant for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S revoked.

RELEASED: William Brayton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Expired Registration, and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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

RELEASED: Sean Brown on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/21 BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Roger Kornegay on Pratt County District Court warrant for Making False Information, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeremy Harris on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $20,000 C/S; and on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $290 cash only.BOOKED: Sean Brown on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $5,000 OR bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Phillip Pardon on five Barton County District Court warrants for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Driving Under the Influence, Operating a Vehicle without a License, No Insurance, Failure to Appear, Burglary, Criminal Threat, Criminal Damage to Property, Criminal Threat, Stalking, Burglary, Interference with LEO, Stalking, Violation of Protection Order, Criminal Trespass, Theft, and Burglary; and on Rice County District Court warrant for Probation Violation. Released to Rice County with no bond set.RELEASED: Mark Caton on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after 48-hours served.RELEASED: Anna Marie Gates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, DUI, and Failure to Maintain Lane, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.4/22 BOOKED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jonathan Whisnant on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 cash only.&nbsp;BOOKED: Timothy Galliart on&nbsp;Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Battery DV, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher Caton on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Kansas Registered Offender Act, bond set at $40,000 C/S; on Barton County District Court warrant for Felony Flee and Elude, Interference with LEO, and Criminal Damage &lt;$1,0000, Driving without a valid License, Reckless Driving, Improper turn/signal/stop, Improper Turn or Approach, Speeding, Driving without Headlamps when Required, Improper Driving on Laned Roadway, and Failure to Stop x3, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $60,000 C/S.BOOKED: Marvin Lewis, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Jonathan Whisnant on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jacob Horner on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $500 cash bond.RELEASED: Timothy Galliart on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat and Battery DV, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.4/23 BOOKED: Mitchell Alexander on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Endangering a Child, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: William Brayton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Expired Registration, and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Leonard Boese on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Michael Kelley on Barton County District Court warrant for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S revoked.RELEASED: William Brayton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Expired Registration, and No Insurance, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Linda Reyes on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Sean Brown on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/21 - 4/23)

In the 1950s, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce introduced business and
education tours to connect and educate members. The Chamber is bringing those
tours back this year in an effort to increase and refer customer traffic.


Chamber CEO Megan Barfield said the tours will hopefully inform business owners
and their staff of other stores in town and what each of them provides. "If somebody is out looking for a specific item, they go into that store," said Barfield. "Instead of them turning around and going home, whoever is working in the store can refer to them to other places in town." 
By working together, businesses can leverage each other’s strengths to drive
more traffic to their locations and increase sales in the Great Bend community.
Barfield said the first Business-2-Business Tour will be Tuesday, April 25 with
four downtown stores included on the hour-and-a-half outing. "Each stop can tell those in attendance what their business is known for and here's what we want you to think of," said Barfield. "This can equip everyone with an idea of what other goods are being carried right here. It's not to compete but to help each other." 
The April 25 tour will include stops at That Hipster Place, Kustom
Floor Designs, Renue Salon &amp; Spa &amp; Boutique and Identifications
Company. There will be two separate tours, one beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the second starts at 7 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Find more information at <a href="https://members.greatbend.org/events/details/morning-business-2-business-tours-11804?calendarMonth=2023-04-01">greatbend.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682090973508.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostIn the 1950s, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce introduced business and
education tours to connect and educate members. The Chamber is bringing those
tours back this year in an effort to increase and refer customer traffic.
Chamber CEO Megan Barfield said the tours will hopefully inform business owners
and their staff of other stores in town and what each of them provides. "If somebody is out looking for a specific item, they go into that store," said Barfield. "Instead of them turning around and going home, whoever is working in the store can refer to them to other places in town." 
By working together, businesses can leverage each other’s strengths to drive
more traffic to their locations and increase sales in the Great Bend community.
Barfield said the first Business-2-Business Tour will be Tuesday, April 25 with
four downtown stores included on the hour-and-a-half outing. "Each stop can tell those in attendance what their business is known for and here's what we want you to think of," said Barfield. "This can equip everyone with an idea of what other goods are being carried right here. It's not to compete but to help each other." 
The April 25 tour will include stops at That Hipster Place, Kustom
Floor Designs, Renue Salon &amp; Spa &amp; Boutique and Identifications
Company. There will be two separate tours, one beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the second starts at 7 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Find more information at <a href="https://members.greatbend.org/events/details/morning-business-2-business-tours-11804?calendarMonth=2023-04-01">greatbend.org</a>.

Connecting Great Bend businesses with downtown tours

Today A 50-percent chance of showers, mainly after 1 p.m. Increasing clouds, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 13 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Tonight Showers likely, mainly before 10 p,m. Cloudy, with a low around 42. Southeast wind 14 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Tuesday Showers before 1 p.m., then showers and possibly a thunderstorm between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then showers after 4 p.m. High near 52. Southeast wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Tuesday Night Showers likely before 7 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., then showers likely after 10 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 40. East wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Wednesday Showers likely, mainly before 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 56. East-northeast wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 66.

Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of rain after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Friday A 40-percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60. Breezy.

Friday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Breezy.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 69.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 50-percent chance of showers, mainly after 1 p.m. Increasing clouds, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 13 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.Tonight Showers likely, mainly before 10 p,m. Cloudy, with a low around 42. Southeast wind 14 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Tuesday Showers before 1 p.m., then showers and possibly a thunderstorm between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then showers after 4 p.m. High near 52. Southeast wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.Tuesday Night Showers likely before 7 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., then showers likely after 10 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 40. East wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Wednesday Showers likely, mainly before 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 56. East-northeast wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 66.Thursday Night A 20-percent chance of rain after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Friday A 40-percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60. Breezy.Friday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Breezy.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 69.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

By MADDY ROHR K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Attracting butterflies to the garden through plant selection has grown in popularity, said Kansas State University horticulture instructor Cynthia Domenghini. Knowing what species of plants butterflies prefer can help gardeners with their selections, she said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/garden">To see more garden-related stories, go to Salina Post's Garden Page</a>

Annual plants that attract butterflies include:&nbsp;

“Group similar species of annuals together to create a planting more likely to attract butterflies,” Domenghini said. “Including a mix of annuals with varying bloom times can lengthen the butterfly season.”&nbsp;

Early blooming perennials that attract butterflies include:

Mid-season blooming perennials include:&nbsp;

Late-season blooming perennials include:&nbsp;

“Other features you can incorporate in the garden to appeal to butterflies include areas of full sun. Butterflies are cold-blooded so they seek sunshine for warmth,” Domenghini said. “Shade is also necessary so they can escape from intense sun.”&nbsp;

Water is also important for butterflies and can be provided with a birdbath or water-filled saucer on the ground, Domenghini said.&nbsp;

Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State's Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens. The newsletter is available to view online or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;&nbsp;Domenghini at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cdom@ksu.edu">cdom@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682296413484.jpeg" alt=""Including a mix of annuals with varying bloom times can lengthen the butterfly season," according to K-State&nbsp;horticulture instructor Cynthia Domenghini. Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/cooky07-11795645/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4112665">Cooky07</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4112665">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>"Including a mix of annuals with varying bloom times can lengthen the butterfly season," according to K-State&nbsp;horticulture instructor Cynthia Domenghini. Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/cooky07-11795645/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4112665">Cooky07</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4112665">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By MADDY ROHR K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN — Attracting butterflies to the garden through plant selection has grown in popularity, said Kansas State University horticulture instructor Cynthia Domenghini. Knowing what species of plants butterflies prefer can help gardeners with their selections, she said.&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/garden">To see more garden-related stories, go to Salina Post's Garden Page</a>Annual plants that attract butterflies include:&nbsp; ●Ageratum●Cosmos●French marigold●Petunia●Verbena●Zinnia“Group similar species of annuals together to create a planting more likely to attract butterflies,” Domenghini said. “Including a mix of annuals with varying bloom times can lengthen the butterfly season.”&nbsp;Early blooming perennials that attract butterflies include: ●Allium●Chives●Forget-me-not●Lilac&nbsp;Mid-season blooming perennials include:&nbsp;●Bee balm●Butterfly bush●Black-eyed Susan●Buttonbush●Butterfly weed●Daisy●Daylily●Gaillardia●Lavender●Lily●Mint●Phlox●Privet●Sunflower●VeronicaLate-season blooming perennials include:&nbsp;●Aster●Glossy●Abelia●Sedum“Other features you can incorporate in the garden to appeal to butterflies include areas of full sun. Butterflies are cold-blooded so they seek sunshine for warmth,” Domenghini said. “Shade is also necessary so they can escape from intense sun.”&nbsp;Water is also important for butterflies and can be provided with a birdbath or water-filled saucer on the ground, Domenghini said.&nbsp;Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State's Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens. The newsletter is available to view online or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;&nbsp;Domenghini at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cdom@ksu.edu">cdom@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

K-State horticulturalist offers gardening for butterflies tips

Those wanting to help save lives and be a part of a vital industry can apply for Barton’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) programs now through July 31.

Barton Director of Emergency Medical Services Education (EMS) Program Nicholas Larmer said EMTs and AEMTs are in high demand and urges those interested to apply.

“EMS is a great medical field to get into in a short amount of time,” he said. “At Barton Community College, we train students to become competent, compassionate caregivers. We prepare them, at an entry-level, for the types of emergencies they might encounter. &nbsp;Our passion for EMS becomes the passion of the students. EMS not only saves lives; it changes them.”

Barton's program qualifies for the Kansas Promise Scholarship, which means students can complete it at no cost. For more information about this, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/promiseact">bartonccc.edu/promiseact</a>.

The EMS Program offers coursework at all levels of pre-hospital emergency care. It is designed to meet not only the required continuing education requirements but also a variety of offerings intended to keep students current in the areas of patient care, equipment, techniques, and technology. The curriculum is structured around the current National Standard curriculum and is nationally recognized.

For more information, please contact Director of Emergency Medical Services Education Nicholas Larmer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:whitek@bartonccc.edu">larmern@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ems.bartonccc.edu/">ems.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682025518661.jpeg" alt="Paramedic students go through a training exercise on the Barton campus in 2022." />
 <figcaption>Paramedic students go through a training exercise on the Barton campus in 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaThose wanting to help save lives and be a part of a vital industry can apply for Barton’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) programs now through July 31.Barton Director of Emergency Medical Services Education (EMS) Program Nicholas Larmer said EMTs and AEMTs are in high demand and urges those interested to apply.“EMS is a great medical field to get into in a short amount of time,” he said. “At Barton Community College, we train students to become competent, compassionate caregivers. We prepare them, at an entry-level, for the types of emergencies they might encounter. &nbsp;Our passion for EMS becomes the passion of the students. EMS not only saves lives; it changes them.”Barton's program qualifies for the Kansas Promise Scholarship, which means students can complete it at no cost. For more information about this, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/promiseact">bartonccc.edu/promiseact</a>.The EMS Program offers coursework at all levels of pre-hospital emergency care. It is designed to meet not only the required continuing education requirements but also a variety of offerings intended to keep students current in the areas of patient care, equipment, techniques, and technology. The curriculum is structured around the current National Standard curriculum and is nationally recognized.Barton EMS Highlights:<ul>
 <li>Barton offers coursework at all levels of pre-hospital emergency care.</li><li>EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic</li><li>Barton focuses on rural and hard-to-reach students.</li><li>Barton EMS Education has the largest geographical area of any community college in Kansas making education convenient and accessible.</li><li>Classes are offered at a variety of sites for training and multiple start dates for student convenience.</li>
 </ul>For more information, please contact Director of Emergency Medical Services Education Nicholas Larmer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:whitek@bartonccc.edu">larmern@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ems.bartonccc.edu/">ems.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Emergency Medical Services program apps open through July 31

Hear last week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee and members from the Central Kansas Partnership that aired April 20, 2023.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear last week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee and members from the Central Kansas Partnership that aired April 20, 2023.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/02yeworl/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙County Edition: Central Kansas Partnership

The Kansas State High School Activities Association is proud to announce the 34 stu­dents selected for a $2,000 scholarship made payable to a two-year or four-year accredited college, uni­versity or technical school in the name of the selected student.

“We are thrilled once again to award scholarships to 34 students that have excelled in the classroom and in school activities” said Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This is the second year to partner with the Capi­tol Federal Foundation ® to honor these outstanding students as they graduate and pursue continued ex­cellence in their postsecondary endeavors.”

Two of the 34 recipients included area student athletes:

Boys Golf Easton Seth Fitzpatrick - Larned High School

Girls Bowling Sahara Rose Rziha - Great Bend High School

This year 500 applications were received across the 34 different scholarships.

Eligibility Students must be seniors attending and graduating from a member school of the Kansas State High School Ac­tivities Association during the 2022-23 school year and have rostered in the activity chosen below their senior year. They must be considered as students in good standing as confirmed by their building principal. Students must enroll and attend a post-secondary institution of their choice as a full-time student within two years of graduation of graduation. Applicants must be in their final semester of high school.

Selection Criteria The student were selected based upon an assessment of the following components:

Breadth of school activity participation (20%)

Applications were reviewed by a panel of educators and stakeholders who support the mission of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682112376728.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas State High School Activities Association is proud to announce the 34 stu­dents selected for a $2,000 scholarship made payable to a two-year or four-year accredited college, uni­versity or technical school in the name of the selected student.“We are thrilled once again to award scholarships to 34 students that have excelled in the classroom and in school activities” said Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This is the second year to partner with the Capi­tol Federal Foundation ® to honor these outstanding students as they graduate and pursue continued ex­cellence in their postsecondary endeavors.”Two of the 34 recipients included area student athletes:Boys Golf Easton Seth Fitzpatrick - Larned High SchoolGirls Bowling Sahara Rose Rziha - Great Bend High School---This year 500 applications were received across the 34 different scholarships.Scholarship criteria:Eligibility Students must be seniors attending and graduating from a member school of the Kansas State High School Ac­tivities Association during the 2022-23 school year and have rostered in the activity chosen below their senior year. They must be considered as students in good standing as confirmed by their building principal. Students must enroll and attend a post-secondary institution of their choice as a full-time student within two years of graduation of graduation. Applicants must be in their final semester of high school.Selection Criteria The student were selected based upon an assessment of the following components:Community Service (30%)Academic achievement (30%)Activity achievement (20%)Breadth of school activity participation (20%)Applications were reviewed by a panel of educators and stakeholders who support the mission of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.&nbsp;

Great Bend & Larned students selected for KSHSAA scholarship

The drought monitor report as of Tuesday, April 18 indicates continued expansion of exceptional drought further east and along the southern counties, even with the scattered rains. The six to ten-day outlook (April 25 to 29) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to below normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning near normal precipitation. The eight to fourteen-day outlook (April 27 to May 3) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to above normal temperatures and near normal precipitation. Near normal isn’t much but a great deal more than we’ve had lately. Before today’s topic, the outlook for April through June indicates at least a 40% to 50% chance of below normal temperatures and near normal for precipitation. Normal precipitation would be approximately seven inches for may through June.

Over the last several weeks the amount of soil blowing around has been noticeable. With the area in essentially a two-year drought, it’s hardly a surprise. The challenge is what to do about it. There major truth in wind erosion, wet soil doesn’t blow. Without irrigation, you can’t make it rain. What has compounded the problem is the lack of ground cover even without tillage. Often, producers will take out a tillage implement like a chisel plow if possible to do two things, roughen the soil and bring up subsoil moisture. We know there isn’t much if any moisture. And breaking up the surface, making it rough, breaks up the wind and slows down erosion. This again works better with some soil moisture and well-aggregated soil. It doesn’t work as well with dry soils, soils lacking decent structure, and especially on dry, sandy soils. Before we move on to preventing wind erosion in the future, be aware of the double-edged erosion sword we deal with out here. Producers must deal with both wind and water erosion. Water erosion can be severe here as it doesn’t take much slope for water to flow, and many fields lack adequate ground cover. Now, moving forward what can we do?

· Keep the ground covered with a good amount of crop residue (i.e. minimize or eliminate tillage) or where possible plant, grow, then kill and leave in place some type of cover crop.

· Leave as much standing crop stubble as possible and as tall as practical as it serves as a mini-windbreak.

· Where possible and practical plant in an east-west direction, perpendicular to prevailing winds. It really can help.

· Where practical and possible (and this is more common on the sandy soils in our region), break up fields into smaller fields with practical crop rotations. For example, take a quarter section and split it up between corn, wheat, and grain sorghum and if you can, add it soybeans.

· Finally, while falling out of favor with many, a good, well-maintained shelterbelt is extremely effective in controlling wind erosion, especially on the sandier soils in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682025352095.jpeg" alt="written by: Dr. Vic Martin, Barton Community College Ag Instructor" />
 <figcaption>written by: Dr. Vic Martin, Barton Community College Ag Instructor</figcaption>
 </figure>The drought monitor report as of Tuesday, April 18 indicates continued expansion of exceptional drought further east and along the southern counties, even with the scattered rains. The six to ten-day outlook (April 25 to 29) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to below normal temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning near normal precipitation. The eight to fourteen-day outlook (April 27 to May 3) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning to above normal temperatures and near normal precipitation. Near normal isn’t much but a great deal more than we’ve had lately. Before today’s topic, the outlook for April through June indicates at least a 40% to 50% chance of below normal temperatures and near normal for precipitation. Normal precipitation would be approximately seven inches for may through June.Over the last several weeks the amount of soil blowing around has been noticeable. With the area in essentially a two-year drought, it’s hardly a surprise. The challenge is what to do about it. There major truth in wind erosion, wet soil doesn’t blow. Without irrigation, you can’t make it rain. What has compounded the problem is the lack of ground cover even without tillage. Often, producers will take out a tillage implement like a chisel plow if possible to do two things, roughen the soil and bring up subsoil moisture. We know there isn’t much if any moisture. And breaking up the surface, making it rough, breaks up the wind and slows down erosion. This again works better with some soil moisture and well-aggregated soil. It doesn’t work as well with dry soils, soils lacking decent structure, and especially on dry, sandy soils. Before we move on to preventing wind erosion in the future, be aware of the double-edged erosion sword we deal with out here. Producers must deal with both wind and water erosion. Water erosion can be severe here as it doesn’t take much slope for water to flow, and many fields lack adequate ground cover. Now, moving forward what can we do?· Keep the ground covered with a good amount of crop residue (i.e. minimize or eliminate tillage) or where possible plant, grow, then kill and leave in place some type of cover crop.· Leave as much standing crop stubble as possible and as tall as practical as it serves as a mini-windbreak.· Where possible and practical plant in an east-west direction, perpendicular to prevailing winds. It really can help.· Where practical and possible (and this is more common on the sandy soils in our region), break up fields into smaller fields with practical crop rotations. For example, take a quarter section and split it up between corn, wheat, and grain sorghum and if you can, add it soybeans.· Finally, while falling out of favor with many, a good, well-maintained shelterbelt is extremely effective in controlling wind erosion, especially on the sandier soils in the area.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Martin: Keeping soil in place

Kimberly Becker, a renowned coach from Great Bend, and consultant with Move Your Mountain Coaching &amp; Consulting is set to be a keynote speaker at the upcoming DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. The event is scheduled to take place on April 28-29, 2023, and promises to be a powerful time of hearing powerful testimonies and deeper thinking challenges on life, love, and leadership. 

Kimberly is in full DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference mode and is urging her friends and family to join her in-person or virtually at the event. She believes that there's nothing like being surrounded by other progressive-thinking women, and this time, they get to become something different together. 

As a keynote speaker at the event, Kimberly will share a little bit about her story and teach about some leadership skills she learned during that time in her life. Her goal is to have at least 10 of her friends and family show up to be her entourage and support her during her speech. 

Kimberly is an experienced coach and consultant who has helped countless individuals and organizations achieve their goals and reach their full potential. She is excited to be a part of the DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference and looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience with others. 

For those interested in attending the event, Kimberly has provided a personal registration link below. She will also inform her friends and family about the time she will be taking the stage. With her passion and expertise, Kimberly is sure to make an impact at the DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference and inspire all those who attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682087995856.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kimberly Becker, a renowned coach from Great Bend, and consultant with Move Your Mountain Coaching &amp; Consulting is set to be a keynote speaker at the upcoming DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. The event is scheduled to take place on April 28-29, 2023, and promises to be a powerful time of hearing powerful testimonies and deeper thinking challenges on life, love, and leadership. Kimberly is in full DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference mode and is urging her friends and family to join her in-person or virtually at the event. She believes that there's nothing like being surrounded by other progressive-thinking women, and this time, they get to become something different together. As a keynote speaker at the event, Kimberly will share a little bit about her story and teach about some leadership skills she learned during that time in her life. Her goal is to have at least 10 of her friends and family show up to be her entourage and support her during her speech. Kimberly is an experienced coach and consultant who has helped countless individuals and organizations achieve their goals and reach their full potential. She is excited to be a part of the DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference and looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience with others. For those interested in attending the event, Kimberly has provided a personal registration link below. She will also inform her friends and family about the time she will be taking the stage. With her passion and expertise, Kimberly is sure to make an impact at the DEEPER Women™ Speak Conference and inspire all those who attend.

Great Bend woman to be keynote speaker for conference in Atlanta

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Let’s go to the port.” If that calls to mind a big harbor full of ships and seagulls, think again.&nbsp;

There are other kinds of ports such as an airport – or a railport. Today we’ll learn about a rural Kansas county that is using a port authority to support railroad infrastructure so as to benefit the local economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the last two weeks, we met Carolyn Dunn, president of the Stafford County Port Authority and past director of economic development in Stafford County. In the conclusion of this three-part series, we will learn about a port authority.&nbsp;

Stafford County is an agriculturally-based county in the middle of Kansas. One of its assets is a railroad line.&nbsp;

When Dunn first took the job as county economic development director, she was approached by three companies that were interested in establishing a large grain car loading facility along the railroad in the county. In each case, the deals did not pencil out, and the companies went elsewhere.&nbsp;

“We had to figure out how we could make this viable for them,” Dunn said. “Rather than those companies having to absorb all the cost of land and track, we looked for a way to structure this so that it makes it advantageous to attract businesses.”&nbsp;

Her research on alternatives led to something called a port authority. This happened to be the same legal structure that a Kansas leader named Huck Boyd had successfully used to support railroad service after the Rock Island Railroad closed in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A port authority is a quasi-governmental, special use district authorized to operate transportation infrastructure. In a sense, it might function like an airport or water port, but in Kansas it has been used with railroads. Typically, the port authority would own the land and railroad sidings and then lease access to companies that ship goods.&nbsp;

Stafford County Economic Development sought to use the port authority to establish a local rail transloading facility with industrial park. This would mean building a loop to the main railroad with space for loading and unloading facilities. This would allow trains and trucks to receive and transfer cargo such as grain or manufactured products.&nbsp;

Establishing a port authority requires state legislative approval. The Kansas Legislature authorized the Stafford County port authority in 2014. Stafford County Commissioners authorized formation of it in 2015. A Port Authority Board of Directors was appointed by the county commissioners. The county then contracted with a K-State agricultural economics professor to conduct a feasibility study on how best to implement it.&nbsp;

A grant was received to do the engineering and legal work. Potential sites were evaluated. A large grain handling company signed a letter of intent to build a unit car loading facility there.&nbsp;

Five million dollars was raised for the project. In 2022, a 256 acre site was purchased near two major highways and next to the railroad right of way.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dunn transitioned from economic development director to her new role as president of the port authority. Much work remains to be done on the project.&nbsp;

If all goes as planned, this project would stimulate an estimated $15 million in private investment initially by an anchor grain-handling tenant. Improved efficiency in grain transportation should improve local grain prices, adding $7.5 to $9 million annually into the local economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“In addition to the seasonal shipment of grain at harvest time, we think this can benefit industrial shippers in the county by providing a local point of access to the railroad for companies that don’t have their own rail siding,” Dunn said.&nbsp;

One example would be Hudson Cream Flour, a business we have previously profiled.&nbsp;&nbsp;That company is located in the rural Stafford County community of Hudson, population 95 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.staffordport.com/">www.staffordport.com</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time to leave the port, but there’s no ships or seagulls. This would be a railroad port.&nbsp;&nbsp;We salute Carolyn Dunn and the Stafford County Port Authority for making a difference with innovative thinking and action.&nbsp;

Will this achieve positive results?&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes - I have it on good authority.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681909639428.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Let’s go to the port.” If that calls to mind a big harbor full of ships and seagulls, think again.&nbsp;There are other kinds of ports such as an airport – or a railport. Today we’ll learn about a rural Kansas county that is using a port authority to support railroad infrastructure so as to benefit the local economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During the last two weeks, we met Carolyn Dunn, president of the Stafford County Port Authority and past director of economic development in Stafford County. In the conclusion of this three-part series, we will learn about a port authority.&nbsp;Stafford County is an agriculturally-based county in the middle of Kansas. One of its assets is a railroad line.&nbsp;When Dunn first took the job as county economic development director, she was approached by three companies that were interested in establishing a large grain car loading facility along the railroad in the county. In each case, the deals did not pencil out, and the companies went elsewhere.&nbsp;“We had to figure out how we could make this viable for them,” Dunn said. “Rather than those companies having to absorb all the cost of land and track, we looked for a way to structure this so that it makes it advantageous to attract businesses.”&nbsp;Her research on alternatives led to something called a port authority. This happened to be the same legal structure that a Kansas leader named Huck Boyd had successfully used to support railroad service after the Rock Island Railroad closed in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A port authority is a quasi-governmental, special use district authorized to operate transportation infrastructure. In a sense, it might function like an airport or water port, but in Kansas it has been used with railroads. Typically, the port authority would own the land and railroad sidings and then lease access to companies that ship goods.&nbsp;Stafford County Economic Development sought to use the port authority to establish a local rail transloading facility with industrial park. This would mean building a loop to the main railroad with space for loading and unloading facilities. This would allow trains and trucks to receive and transfer cargo such as grain or manufactured products.&nbsp;Establishing a port authority requires state legislative approval. The Kansas Legislature authorized the Stafford County port authority in 2014. Stafford County Commissioners authorized formation of it in 2015. A Port Authority Board of Directors was appointed by the county commissioners. The county then contracted with a K-State agricultural economics professor to conduct a feasibility study on how best to implement it.&nbsp;A grant was received to do the engineering and legal work. Potential sites were evaluated. A large grain handling company signed a letter of intent to build a unit car loading facility there.&nbsp;Five million dollars was raised for the project. In 2022, a 256 acre site was purchased near two major highways and next to the railroad right of way.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dunn transitioned from economic development director to her new role as president of the port authority. Much work remains to be done on the project.&nbsp;If all goes as planned, this project would stimulate an estimated $15 million in private investment initially by an anchor grain-handling tenant. Improved efficiency in grain transportation should improve local grain prices, adding $7.5 to $9 million annually into the local economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In addition to the seasonal shipment of grain at harvest time, we think this can benefit industrial shippers in the county by providing a local point of access to the railroad for companies that don’t have their own rail siding,” Dunn said.&nbsp;One example would be Hudson Cream Flour, a business we have previously profiled.&nbsp;&nbsp;That company is located in the rural Stafford County community of Hudson, population 95 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.staffordport.com/">www.staffordport.com</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave the port, but there’s no ships or seagulls. This would be a railroad port.&nbsp;&nbsp;We salute Carolyn Dunn and the Stafford County Port Authority for making a difference with innovative thinking and action.&nbsp;Will this achieve positive results?&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes - I have it on good authority.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Carolyn Dunn, port authority (Stafford Co.)

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

On April 13, Sunrise Staffing Services LLC celebrated new ownership with a ribbon cutting event hosted by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. The event marked the transition of ownership from former owner Cynthia Kruse to new owners Chris and Melanie Ryan.

Sunrise Staffing Services LLC is a full-service staffing agency with offices in Great Bend, Liberal, and Dodge City. The company has been providing flexible staffing services for 30 years and is fully equipped to provide temporary, temporary-to-hire, and direct placement staffing to virtually all types of businesses. The new owners, Chris and Melanie Ryan, are committed to maintaining the company's excellent customer service and flexibility and look forward to continuing Sunrise's foundational relationships with customers that have lasted over 20 years.

Chris Ryan, the new President and Owner of Sunrise Staffing Services LLC, is not new to the company. He was employed with Sunrise for 25 years before purchasing the company with Melanie upon Cynthia Kruse's retirement. "Mel and I are excited for the new chapter at Sunrise. We have an excellent team of professionals always ready to assist with all of your staffing needs," said Chris Ryan.

Sunrise Staffing Services LLC currently serves over 30 customers and operates in two states, Kansas and Oklahoma. The company can be contacted at (620) 792-1004 or (800) 239-1809, and their website is www.sunrisestaffingservices.com.

The ribbon cutting event was held at Sunrise Staffing Services LLC's Great Bend location, 2015 Forest Ave. Rm. 202. The event was organized by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, and attendees included members of the Chamber of Commerce and the community.

For more information about Sunrise Staffing Services LLC, please visit their website or contact them at the phone numbers provided above.

Contact: Chris Ryan President/Owner Sunrise Staffing Services LLC Phone: (620) 792-1004 Email: chris.ryan@sunrisestaffingservices.com Website: www.sunrisestaffingservices.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682005117635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...On April 13, Sunrise Staffing Services LLC celebrated new ownership with a ribbon cutting event hosted by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. The event marked the transition of ownership from former owner Cynthia Kruse to new owners Chris and Melanie Ryan.Sunrise Staffing Services LLC is a full-service staffing agency with offices in Great Bend, Liberal, and Dodge City. The company has been providing flexible staffing services for 30 years and is fully equipped to provide temporary, temporary-to-hire, and direct placement staffing to virtually all types of businesses. The new owners, Chris and Melanie Ryan, are committed to maintaining the company's excellent customer service and flexibility and look forward to continuing Sunrise's foundational relationships with customers that have lasted over 20 years.Chris Ryan, the new President and Owner of Sunrise Staffing Services LLC, is not new to the company. He was employed with Sunrise for 25 years before purchasing the company with Melanie upon Cynthia Kruse's retirement. "Mel and I are excited for the new chapter at Sunrise. We have an excellent team of professionals always ready to assist with all of your staffing needs," said Chris Ryan.Sunrise Staffing Services LLC currently serves over 30 customers and operates in two states, Kansas and Oklahoma. The company can be contacted at (620) 792-1004 or (800) 239-1809, and their website is www.sunrisestaffingservices.com.The ribbon cutting event was held at Sunrise Staffing Services LLC's Great Bend location, 2015 Forest Ave. Rm. 202. The event was organized by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, and attendees included members of the Chamber of Commerce and the community.For more information about Sunrise Staffing Services LLC, please visit their website or contact them at the phone numbers provided above.Contact: Chris Ryan President/Owner Sunrise Staffing Services LLC Phone: (620) 792-1004 Email: chris.ryan@sunrisestaffingservices.com Website: www.sunrisestaffingservices.com

Sunrise Staffing Services celebrates new ownership with ribbon cutting

The bad news, at least for some, is that snakes are coming out of hibernation. The good news: only four types of venomous snakes are native to Kansas. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said that number is further reduced when it comes to Barton County and Cheyenne Bottoms.

"In this part of the state, really the only venomous snakes that we have are the Massasauga rattlesnakes," he said. "We could technically have prairie rattlesnakes as well, but they're a little bit more common east of here. I think there've only been a couple records of prairie rattlesnakes in Barton County in history."

The other two venomous species - the timber rattler and the copperhead - can be found further east in Kansas. Contrary to popular belief, Wolf said there are no cottonmouths in central Kansas. Only seven water moccasins have ever been found in the state, all in the extreme southeast corner. 

Western Massasuaga's are the smallest of the rattlesnakes found in Kansas. They range in length from 18 to 30 inches, are characterized by a small pit on each side of the head, and have nine large scales on top of the head. They do have rattles but can be difficult to detect.

"Because they are relatively small, oftentimes if the wind is blowing or if there are other noises, that rattle can be awfully difficult to hear," Wolf said. "Sometimes, they don't rattle, so it's not like it's automatic that you're going to hear it."

There have been 124 documented massasauga occurrences in Barton County, 62 in Ellsworth County, and 56 in Russell County. Those numbers are, by far, the highest in Kansas. 

"We see them every year," said Wolf. "With the spring coming and the warmer temperatures, they're coming out of hibernation and becoming more active this time of year. On these warm, sunny days, it's possible to see them out and about. Care just needs to be taken if you ever come across one."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682009014597.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe bad news, at least for some, is that snakes are coming out of hibernation. The good news: only four types of venomous snakes are native to Kansas. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said that number is further reduced when it comes to Barton County and Cheyenne Bottoms."In this part of the state, really the only venomous snakes that we have are the Massasauga rattlesnakes," he said. "We could technically have prairie rattlesnakes as well, but they're a little bit more common east of here. I think there've only been a couple records of prairie rattlesnakes in Barton County in history."The other two venomous species - the timber rattler and the copperhead - can be found further east in Kansas. Contrary to popular belief, Wolf said there are no cottonmouths in central Kansas. Only seven water moccasins have ever been found in the state, all in the extreme southeast corner. Western Massasuaga's are the smallest of the rattlesnakes found in Kansas. They range in length from 18 to 30 inches, are characterized by a small pit on each side of the head, and have nine large scales on top of the head. They do have rattles but can be difficult to detect."Because they are relatively small, oftentimes if the wind is blowing or if there are other noises, that rattle can be awfully difficult to hear," Wolf said. "Sometimes, they don't rattle, so it's not like it's automatic that you're going to hear it."There have been 124 documented massasauga occurrences in Barton County, 62 in Ellsworth County, and 56 in Russell County. Those numbers are, by far, the highest in Kansas. "We see them every year," said Wolf. "With the spring coming and the warmer temperatures, they're coming out of hibernation and becoming more active this time of year. On these warm, sunny days, it's possible to see them out and about. Care just needs to be taken if you ever come across one."

Rattlesnakes coming out of hibernation around Cheyenne Bottoms

At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 22, &nbsp;the Great Bend Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a&nbsp;structure&nbsp;fire in the 800 block of Hickory Street in Great Bend. &nbsp;Upon arrival, light smoke was noted coming from the structure. &nbsp; The initial crew was met with heavy smoke and fire when they entered the residence. &nbsp;Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly and started an interior search of the residence for possible occupants with no one found. &nbsp;All occupants had exited the structure prior to fire department arrival. &nbsp; Significant fire, smoke and heat damage were found throughout the structure. &nbsp;The fire is being investigated by&nbsp;fire investigators from the Great Bend Fire Department, the Kansas State Fire Marshal Office and detectives from the Great Bend Police Department. The cause of the fire is currently listed as suspicious in nature. &nbsp; Great Bend Fire Department was assisted at the fire by the Great Bend Police Department, Wheatland Electric and Kansas Gas Service.

At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 22, &nbsp;the Great Bend Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a&nbsp;structure&nbsp;fire in the 800 block of Hickory Street in Great Bend. &nbsp;Upon arrival, light smoke was noted coming from the structure. &nbsp; The initial crew was met with heavy smoke and fire when they entered the residence. &nbsp;Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly and started an interior search of the residence for possible occupants with no one found. &nbsp;All occupants had exited the structure prior to fire department arrival. &nbsp; Significant fire, smoke and heat damage were found throughout the structure. &nbsp;The fire is being investigated by&nbsp;fire investigators from the Great Bend Fire Department, the Kansas State Fire Marshal Office and detectives from the Great Bend Police Department. The cause of the fire is currently listed as suspicious in nature. &nbsp; Great Bend Fire Department was assisted at the fire by the Great Bend Police Department, Wheatland Electric and Kansas Gas Service.

Fire in Great Bend ‘suspicious in nature’

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 19, 2023.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 19, 2023.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/ujaupkrm/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎤City Edition: Public Works Director Jason Cauley

As calendar pages flipped closer to a new century, Ellis and surrounding communities grew and prospered. Schools reflected that prosperity in the number of students and the days of attendance.

In 1889, Professor Whelan introduced a three-term school year. The first 2 terms consisted of 3 months while the last totaled 2 months. To improve school quality, he stated “No students could enroll after the first week of each term.” He intended to strengthen instructional integrity for all Ellis students. A total of 222 youngsters enrolled that first term. The board approved the 8-month school and funded it with a 12-mill levy (Ellis Review Headlight 7-30-1889).

As Ellis evolved from frontier outpost to thriving town, board and administrative decisions increasingly reflected state educational policy. The State Superintendent of Schools mandated all schools in his jurisdiction fly the United States flag. To meet this requirement, pupils and residents organized socials to raise $30.10 to purchase a 12 x18 foot flag and pole (ERH12-31-1889). To celebrate reaching their goal, they commemorated the flag and flew it for the first time at Kansas Day Ceremonies on January 29, 1890 (ERH 1-14-1890).

April saw even more improvements. The board planted numerous trees on school grounds (ERH 4-25-1890). To finish the year, students, teachers, and townspeople planned a school exhibition that earned $44.60 to buy books for the school library. Sources estimated this amount would buy 75-80 volumes for the library shelves (ERH 5-2-90). One can imagine the community’s satisfaction with its educational system as it worked through the final decade of the century.

By 1891, the Ellis school system had earned a fine reputation. The President of the Agricultural College sent a note published in the Ellis Review Headlight, February 6, 1891, stating that “Pupils who complete our course of study as far as the eighth grade will be admitted to the college on certificate of that fact without further examination.” That same year, the system boasted 5 teachers: Miss Peters, Miss Kingsley, Miss Courts, Miss Frost, and Miss Holman.

The following year, 1892, offered a grand opportunity to celebrate education in Ellis. Although the school had operated for 19 years, no one had graduated. That changed when two girls and boy received diplomas from Ellis High School (Langley, 1990).

The August 6, 1970 Centennial Edition of the Ellis Review shared former student Emma Kastner’s memories of early school practices. She recalled the janitor rang the bell at 8:30 each morning. The final bell rang at 9:00 a.m. Students lined up and marched up the stairs to a tune a teacher played on a triangle. Faculty marked students tardy if they failed to make the line before the door closed. First through fourth grades remained on the 1st floor of the building. Fifth and sixth graders studied in the basement, and high school classes met upstairs where courses included algebra, geometry, history, and rhetoric (now known as English). In addition to academic subjects, teachers instructed character, culture, and citizenship “as rigidly as the three R’s.”

Under the watchful eyes of their community, students succeeded in their educational efforts. Imagine their joy saluting that first flag, filling those library shelves, and celebrating that first graduation. The stone school continued to build Ellis one youngster at a time.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682006751113.jpeg" alt="written by: Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>As calendar pages flipped closer to a new century, Ellis and surrounding communities grew and prospered. Schools reflected that prosperity in the number of students and the days of attendance.In 1889, Professor Whelan introduced a three-term school year. The first 2 terms consisted of 3 months while the last totaled 2 months. To improve school quality, he stated “No students could enroll after the first week of each term.” He intended to strengthen instructional integrity for all Ellis students. A total of 222 youngsters enrolled that first term. The board approved the 8-month school and funded it with a 12-mill levy (Ellis Review Headlight 7-30-1889).As Ellis evolved from frontier outpost to thriving town, board and administrative decisions increasingly reflected state educational policy. The State Superintendent of Schools mandated all schools in his jurisdiction fly the United States flag. To meet this requirement, pupils and residents organized socials to raise $30.10 to purchase a 12 x18 foot flag and pole (ERH12-31-1889). To celebrate reaching their goal, they commemorated the flag and flew it for the first time at Kansas Day Ceremonies on January 29, 1890 (ERH 1-14-1890).April saw even more improvements. The board planted numerous trees on school grounds (ERH 4-25-1890). To finish the year, students, teachers, and townspeople planned a school exhibition that earned $44.60 to buy books for the school library. Sources estimated this amount would buy 75-80 volumes for the library shelves (ERH 5-2-90). One can imagine the community’s satisfaction with its educational system as it worked through the final decade of the century.By 1891, the Ellis school system had earned a fine reputation. The President of the Agricultural College sent a note published in the Ellis Review Headlight, February 6, 1891, stating that “Pupils who complete our course of study as far as the eighth grade will be admitted to the college on certificate of that fact without further examination.” That same year, the system boasted 5 teachers: Miss Peters, Miss Kingsley, Miss Courts, Miss Frost, and Miss Holman.The following year, 1892, offered a grand opportunity to celebrate education in Ellis. Although the school had operated for 19 years, no one had graduated. That changed when two girls and boy received diplomas from Ellis High School (Langley, 1990).The August 6, 1970 Centennial Edition of the Ellis Review shared former student Emma Kastner’s memories of early school practices. She recalled the janitor rang the bell at 8:30 each morning. The final bell rang at 9:00 a.m. Students lined up and marched up the stairs to a tune a teacher played on a triangle. Faculty marked students tardy if they failed to make the line before the door closed. First through fourth grades remained on the 1st floor of the building. Fifth and sixth graders studied in the basement, and high school classes met upstairs where courses included algebra, geometry, history, and rhetoric (now known as English). In addition to academic subjects, teachers instructed character, culture, and citizenship “as rigidly as the three R’s.”Under the watchful eyes of their community, students succeeded in their educational efforts. Imagine their joy saluting that first flag, filling those library shelves, and celebrating that first graduation. The stone school continued to build Ellis one youngster at a time.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: History of Northwest Kansas schools - Part 5

The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in May. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583421595707.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in May. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:<ul>
 <li>Beatrice Albers, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Oakley</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:<ul>
 <li>Robyn Daniels, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Independence</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 30 years:<ul>
 <li>Judy Wagner, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Salina</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 25 years:<ul>
 <li>Brad Almond, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Chanute</li><li>David Choitz, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Ellsworth</li><li>Robert Dressman, IT Security Analyst III,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>William Johnson, Construction Manager,&nbsp;Abilene</li><li>Jennifer Meyer, Senior Administrative Specialist,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Scott Ranes, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Mapleton</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 20 years:<ul>
 <li>Lawrence Casey, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Nickerson</li><li>Dale Shirley, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;Basehor</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 15 years:<ul>
 <li>Kathy Carrico, Senior Administrative Assistant,&nbsp;Severy</li><li>Joel Ramsdell, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Carbondale</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 10 years:<ul>
 <li>Mary Duncan, Staff Development Specialist I,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Charlene Essig, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;Mound Valley</li>
 </ul>

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