Today Sunny, with a high near 46. Breezy, with a west-northwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 17. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 15 to 20 mph decreasing to 9 to 14 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 39. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 12. North wind 9 to 14 mph becoming light and variable after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 46. South-southwest wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28. Breezy.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy.

Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Breezy.

Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy.

Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Breezy.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Breezy.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 46. Breezy, with a west-northwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 17. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 15 to 20 mph decreasing to 9 to 14 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 39. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 12. North wind 9 to 14 mph becoming light and variable after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 46. South-southwest wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28. Breezy.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy.Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Breezy.Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy.Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Breezy.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Breezy.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's Weather

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Let’s have a steak dinner at the beautiful Savoy at 21c restaurant in downtown Kansas City. Where did this Black Angus beef come from? It was brought here directly from a farm in the Flint Hills of rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Sara and Jay Shivers are the owners and operators of Salt Creek Farm in Greenwood County where Sara grew up. She is the daughter of Don and Jan Stephens who run cattle at Rafter S Ranch.&nbsp;

Sara went to K-State. She earned a master’s degree at the University of North Texas where she met her husband Jay, a country boy who was getting a master’s in urban planning. They lived in the Dallas area and Sara worked in non-profit management.&nbsp;

Sara had always wanted to come back to the ranch to help her father. She shared that desire with her husband.&nbsp;

“We knew we wanted to move to Kansas, but urban planning jobs are few and far between,” Sara said. “On our honeymoon, we day-dreamed about selling beef direct to consumers.”&nbsp;

When their first daughter was born, Sara was home on maternity leave and spotted a posting for a job opening for a city planner in El Dorado, Kansas. She passed it on to Jay and he applied.&nbsp;

“Within five weeks, he accepted the job and we bought a house sight unseen in Kansas,” Sara said. A couple of years later, they built a house on Salt Creek near her parents on the ranch.&nbsp;

Sara now partners with her father in ranch operations. The ranch is south of Eureka and north of the rural community of Severy, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

“My dad told me we needed a better way to market our beef,” Sara said. While she and Jay were in Dallas, they had observed that urban consumers were becoming increasingly interested in where their food came from.&nbsp;

Back in Kansas, the Shivers launched Salt Creek Farm in 2017 to market cuts of home-raised beef, heritage chicken and lamb directly to consumers. The beef is purchased from the ranch, processed locally, and dry-aged.&nbsp;

Sara assumed they would sell to individuals. When her cousin in Kansas City asked for beef to serve at his brewery, she gave it a try. Soon other restaurants became customers to which Sara would deliver.&nbsp;

Then COVID-19 hit. “I was halfway through my deliveries in KC when the shutdown orders were issued,” Sara said. “Chefs were calling to cancel orders left and right.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fortunately, Jay had already built the website for the business. Online consumer demand picked up quickly. “Social media has been a game-changer,” Sara said. “At the height of the pandemic, I posted online that we had restocked our meat supplies and we sold out a whole beef in 13 minutes.”&nbsp;

Today, Salt Creek Farm sells to consumers across the nation plus two dozen restaurants in the Kansas City area. In addition to individual cuts or bundles of beef, chicken and lamb, Salt Creek Farms offers a Farm Club Subscription Box through which subscribers can receive a customized mix of meat cuts every month.&nbsp;

In fall 2022, Salt Creek Farm opened a retail outlet in Eureka. Jay started beekeeping as a hobby and is now offering local honey also.&nbsp;

“I have been blown away by our local support,” Sara said. She and Jay are also busy with eight- and five-year-old daughters, Stella and Margot.&nbsp;

“I love being able to provide high quality beef to consumers and to showcase my dad’s hard work through the years,” Sara said. “I enjoy the connection with our customers, answering questions about how and why we raise beef.”&nbsp;

Salt Creek Farm has literally shipped products across the U.S., from New Hampshire to Hawaii.&nbsp;“One customer in Louisiana told me, ‘I didn’t know beef could taste like this,’” Sara said.&nbsp;

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

It’s time to leave our steak dinner, sourced from Salt Creek Farm. We commend Sara and Jay Shivers for making a difference with direct marketing of their products. Such entrepreneurship is all too rare, but this is well done.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678895271283.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Let’s have a steak dinner at the beautiful Savoy at 21c restaurant in downtown Kansas City. Where did this Black Angus beef come from? It was brought here directly from a farm in the Flint Hills of rural Kansas.&nbsp;Sara and Jay Shivers are the owners and operators of Salt Creek Farm in Greenwood County where Sara grew up. She is the daughter of Don and Jan Stephens who run cattle at Rafter S Ranch.&nbsp;Sara went to K-State. She earned a master’s degree at the University of North Texas where she met her husband Jay, a country boy who was getting a master’s in urban planning. They lived in the Dallas area and Sara worked in non-profit management.&nbsp;Sara had always wanted to come back to the ranch to help her father. She shared that desire with her husband.&nbsp;“We knew we wanted to move to Kansas, but urban planning jobs are few and far between,” Sara said. “On our honeymoon, we day-dreamed about selling beef direct to consumers.”&nbsp;When their first daughter was born, Sara was home on maternity leave and spotted a posting for a job opening for a city planner in El Dorado, Kansas. She passed it on to Jay and he applied.&nbsp;“Within five weeks, he accepted the job and we bought a house sight unseen in Kansas,” Sara said. A couple of years later, they built a house on Salt Creek near her parents on the ranch.&nbsp;Sara now partners with her father in ranch operations. The ranch is south of Eureka and north of the rural community of Severy, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“My dad told me we needed a better way to market our beef,” Sara said. While she and Jay were in Dallas, they had observed that urban consumers were becoming increasingly interested in where their food came from.&nbsp;Back in Kansas, the Shivers launched Salt Creek Farm in 2017 to market cuts of home-raised beef, heritage chicken and lamb directly to consumers. The beef is purchased from the ranch, processed locally, and dry-aged.&nbsp;Sara assumed they would sell to individuals. When her cousin in Kansas City asked for beef to serve at his brewery, she gave it a try. Soon other restaurants became customers to which Sara would deliver.&nbsp;Then COVID-19 hit. “I was halfway through my deliveries in KC when the shutdown orders were issued,” Sara said. “Chefs were calling to cancel orders left and right.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately, Jay had already built the website for the business. Online consumer demand picked up quickly. “Social media has been a game-changer,” Sara said. “At the height of the pandemic, I posted online that we had restocked our meat supplies and we sold out a whole beef in 13 minutes.”&nbsp;Today, Salt Creek Farm sells to consumers across the nation plus two dozen restaurants in the Kansas City area. In addition to individual cuts or bundles of beef, chicken and lamb, Salt Creek Farms offers a Farm Club Subscription Box through which subscribers can receive a customized mix of meat cuts every month.&nbsp;In fall 2022, Salt Creek Farm opened a retail outlet in Eureka. Jay started beekeeping as a hobby and is now offering local honey also.&nbsp;“I have been blown away by our local support,” Sara said. She and Jay are also busy with eight- and five-year-old daughters, Stella and Margot.&nbsp;“I love being able to provide high quality beef to consumers and to showcase my dad’s hard work through the years,” Sara said. “I enjoy the connection with our customers, answering questions about how and why we raise beef.”&nbsp;Salt Creek Farm has literally shipped products across the U.S., from New Hampshire to Hawaii.&nbsp;“One customer in Louisiana told me, ‘I didn’t know beef could taste like this,’” Sara said.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thesaltcreekfarm.com/">www.thesaltcreekfarm.com</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave our steak dinner, sourced from Salt Creek Farm. We commend Sara and Jay Shivers for making a difference with direct marketing of their products. Such entrepreneurship is all too rare, but this is well done.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Sara Shivers, Salt Creek Farm 

Encounter Church, located at 601 Patton Road in Great Bend, would like to invite the Great Bend area to attend their annual Candy Blast happening on Saturday, April 8. The fun starts indoors at 12 p.m. with tons of games, music and giveaways for kids of all ages. Any children who are registered by their parents will be eligible to win some of the great prizes we will give away throughout the indoor hour! Then at 1 p.m., the fun moves outdoors to the west end of the property, where kids will take turns lining up in age groups to watch thousands of pieces of candy launched from huge cannons!

"We make sure that nobody leaves empty handed," said Megan Tate, Children's Pastor for Encounter Church. "Invite your friends and family, and make plans to join us for this free event! And if you don't have a church home, we'd love to have you back on Easter Sunday at 10:30 a.m."

Anyone interested in learning more about the Candy Blast event can find more details on the Encounter Church Facebook page (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/226861319812086" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/226861319812086</a>). Visitors can also learn more about Encounter Church and its ministries online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.encounterchurchgb.com/" target="_blank">www.encounterchurchgb.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678829661688.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Encounter Church, located at 601 Patton Road in Great Bend, would like to invite the Great Bend area to attend their annual Candy Blast happening on Saturday, April 8. The fun starts indoors at 12 p.m. with tons of games, music and giveaways for kids of all ages. Any children who are registered by their parents will be eligible to win some of the great prizes we will give away throughout the indoor hour! Then at 1 p.m., the fun moves outdoors to the west end of the property, where kids will take turns lining up in age groups to watch thousands of pieces of candy launched from huge cannons!"We make sure that nobody leaves empty handed," said Megan Tate, Children's Pastor for Encounter Church. "Invite your friends and family, and make plans to join us for this free event! And if you don't have a church home, we'd love to have you back on Easter Sunday at 10:30 a.m."Anyone interested in learning more about the Candy Blast event can find more details on the Encounter Church Facebook page (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/226861319812086" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/226861319812086</a>). Visitors can also learn more about Encounter Church and its ministries online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.encounterchurchgb.com/" target="_blank">www.encounterchurchgb.com</a>.

Great Bend church announces Candy Blast for community April 8

The Barton Community College Library will once again team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a writing workshop focused on learning how to generate ideas to start the creative writing process from 6-8 p.m. March 30 in the Cavanaugh Room in the Barton Library.

Those interested in attending via zoom can do so by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/92182270339" target="_blank">https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/92182270339</a>. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:prairieink@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">prairieink@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678734394746.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College Library will once again team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a writing workshop focused on learning how to generate ideas to start the creative writing process from 6-8 p.m. March 30 in the Cavanaugh Room in the Barton Library.Those interested in attending via zoom can do so by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/92182270339" target="_blank">https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/92182270339</a>. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:prairieink@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">prairieink@bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Community College to host creative writing workshop

Life for women in the early southern colonies (1600s) was hard, but also provided opportunities for equality. The new nation faced many challenges, allowing women to fill roles outside of societal norms. Join the Barton County Chapter of Women for Kansas in celebrating Women’s History Month, at 2 p.m., March 19, at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.

Jason Lindstrom, Barton Community College history instructor, will present “Women’s Equality in the 16th Century U. S. Colonies." Lindstrom will introduce several women who have been forgotten by history, but who played a pivotal role in the survival of European settlements in North America. Lindstrom holds degrees from the University of Kansas, Fort Hays State University and Ohio University. Committed to livelong learning, he resides in Hutchinson with his wife and three children.

Women for Kansas is a non-partisan group advocating for moderate political policies. For more information contact Pam Martin, 620-285-1083.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678980203476.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Life for women in the early southern colonies (1600s) was hard, but also provided opportunities for equality. The new nation faced many challenges, allowing women to fill roles outside of societal norms. Join the Barton County Chapter of Women for Kansas in celebrating Women’s History Month, at 2 p.m., March 19, at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.Jason Lindstrom, Barton Community College history instructor, will present “Women’s Equality in the 16th Century U. S. Colonies." Lindstrom will introduce several women who have been forgotten by history, but who played a pivotal role in the survival of European settlements in North America. Lindstrom holds degrees from the University of Kansas, Fort Hays State University and Ohio University. Committed to livelong learning, he resides in Hutchinson with his wife and three children.Women for Kansas is a non-partisan group advocating for moderate political policies. For more information contact Pam Martin, 620-285-1083.

Barton County chapter celebrating Women's History Month

On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil discusses Salt Awareness Week along with National Orange, Lemon and Artichoke Day.

<div><iframe title="Salt, artichokes, oranges and lemons share a connection; McNeil explains" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=beuxz-13bb93c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil discusses Salt Awareness Week along with National Orange, Lemon and Artichoke Day.

🎙 Post Podcast: Salt, artichokes and citrus share a connection; McNeil explains

As our weather warms, alfalfa producers are reminded to eliminate weeds in their fields before plants break dormancy. Herbicides for controlling winter annual weeds such as pennycress, mustards and shepherd's purse should be applied before alfalfa regrowth reaches 2 inches of height. If alfalfa shoots are green when sprayed, its growth may be set back a couple weeks.

Broadleaf weeds can lower yields, reduce hay quality and slow first-cutting alfalfa dry-down. Grassy weeds such as downy brome, cheatgrass and bromegrass can have even higher impact on lowering hay quality.

If your alfalfa variety is Roundup Ready, then glyphosate can be applied to the alfalfa almost any time without harming the fields. Fortunately, if you treat your alfalfa soon, you can have cleaner, healthier alfalfa at first cutting.

Before spraying these weeds, be sure they are causing economic damage to your crop. Spraying will provide a purer alfalfa stand but may reduce your overall total tonnage.

Our new 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, lists herbicides labelled to control weeds in alfalfa. To be most successful, apply herbicides before alfalfa shoots green up this spring to avoid alfalfa injury. If it does get late, use either Raptor or Pursuit, because they tend to cause less injury to your alfalfa.

Get ready to control unwanted weeds now before alfalfa plants break dormancy. Spray timing is critical.

Eggs will hatch after about 300 growing degree days, a physiological measurement of temperature. That puts the newly hatched weevils in farmer’s field roughly in late March. It soon will be time to start scouting your alfalfa fields.

Alfalfa weevils leave behind tiny holes – about the size of a pin prick – in the leaves of alfalfa plants.

It is recommended that producers wait until there is a 30-50% infestation of alfalfa weevils in a field before deciding to spray. To test the infestation level, pick stems and then vigorously shake them into a white bucket to count the number of larvae that fall off.

If a producer shakes 10 stems but only counts 2 larvae, then there is a 20% infestation level and should be checked within the next 4-5 days, depending on temperatures. Ideally it is recommended to do this sampling in at least 2 to 3 different areas or spots in the field to get a better estimation.

“Don’t go out there and spray too early,” advises Jeff Whitworth, Extension Entomologist. “These insecticides only last 10-14 days.”

He recommends checking the weather forecast before treating for weevils. “Anytime the temperature gets down into the mid-20s, the young larvae will be killed.”

If rain is forecast in the coming 3-4 days, Whitworth suggests holding off on spraying.

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/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As our weather warms, alfalfa producers are reminded to eliminate weeds in their fields before plants break dormancy. Herbicides for controlling winter annual weeds such as pennycress, mustards and shepherd's purse should be applied before alfalfa regrowth reaches 2 inches of height. If alfalfa shoots are green when sprayed, its growth may be set back a couple weeks.Broadleaf weeds can lower yields, reduce hay quality and slow first-cutting alfalfa dry-down. Grassy weeds such as downy brome, cheatgrass and bromegrass can have even higher impact on lowering hay quality.If your alfalfa variety is Roundup Ready, then glyphosate can be applied to the alfalfa almost any time without harming the fields. Fortunately, if you treat your alfalfa soon, you can have cleaner, healthier alfalfa at first cutting.Before spraying these weeds, be sure they are causing economic damage to your crop. Spraying will provide a purer alfalfa stand but may reduce your overall total tonnage.Our new 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, lists herbicides labelled to control weeds in alfalfa. To be most successful, apply herbicides before alfalfa shoots green up this spring to avoid alfalfa injury. If it does get late, use either Raptor or Pursuit, because they tend to cause less injury to your alfalfa.Get ready to control unwanted weeds now before alfalfa plants break dormancy. Spray timing is critical.Alfalfa weevils start scouting soonEggs will hatch after about 300 growing degree days, a physiological measurement of temperature. That puts the newly hatched weevils in farmer’s field roughly in late March. It soon will be time to start scouting your alfalfa fields.Alfalfa weevils leave behind tiny holes – about the size of a pin prick – in the leaves of alfalfa plants.It is recommended that producers wait until there is a 30-50% infestation of alfalfa weevils in a field before deciding to spray. To test the infestation level, pick stems and then vigorously shake them into a white bucket to count the number of larvae that fall off.If a producer shakes 10 stems but only counts 2 larvae, then there is a 20% infestation level and should be checked within the next 4-5 days, depending on temperatures. Ideally it is recommended to do this sampling in at least 2 to 3 different areas or spots in the field to get a better estimation.“Don’t go out there and spray too early,” advises Jeff Whitworth, Extension Entomologist. “These insecticides only last 10-14 days.”He recommends checking the weather forecast before treating for weevils. “Anytime the temperature gets down into the mid-20s, the young larvae will be killed.”If rain is forecast in the coming 3-4 days, Whitworth suggests holding off on spraying.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: Dormant spraying alfalfa weeds

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders graduate students will travel to Great Bend, Kan., to offer free community hearing screenings. The screenings will be under the supervision of an FHSU Herndon Clinic instructor.

Since the fall of 2016, more than 1,000 people at 30-plus events have received hearing screenings thanks to a grant from the Kansas Masonic Foundation. The Great Bend screening will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, March 24, at the Barton County Health Department, 1300 Kansas Ave., Great Bend. It is sponsored by the Great Bend Masonic Lodge #15.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, each screening lasting approximately 15 minutes. Information about hearing loss and follow-up services will be shared during the screenings.

Participants will receive hearing screening results, free hearing protection earplugs, referral information if needed, and helpful handouts related to hearing loss, such as tinnitus, hearing in noise, protecting residual hearing, and hearing aids. Hearing aids and other items will not be for sale at the screening.

&nbsp;“The partnership between the FHSU Communication Sciences and Disorders Herndon Clinic and Kansas Masons is a win-win opportunity as we are helping many communities have easy access to an important free service yet also simultaneously gaining valuable clinical experiences for our students,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “We are grateful to the Kansas Masons for their support of this quality program.”

Four graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders Department will provide the screenings. The students will gain important clinical hours for this service, while the community will benefit from the opportunity to have their hearing screened free of charge. All ages are welcome.

This will be the final screening for the spring semester.

To schedule an appointment for the Great Bend screening, contact Greg King at 620-617-3634 or the FHSU Herndon Clinic at 785-628-5366.&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJMVEavxJ1Ig2BeI9r00Gz4Vbi0GQxT-2F5eRzs2OxejjckaoSn_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemLvw6uOLAvpAB2OMZfhuhfuxSA2wJMir5fEBnncT52Vv8t1kX8ekDmgVodzY6EAWbFU225Ed2wHiRdVW6l-2Fl7PZEmwvpxZ7KKvMqs4icvIRK7sgRa7o73-2Bct-2BJr9qeI-2BnGnFbLulF-2BK9-2BqtXCxE-2BhmAHqiaxVOfBosx6QKo3kkmfqA9Ey49Dr9vw5LMhCnfpsvlHuiFUxOr7EI8HZvhnPUHopugzdY-2BNKA3mWgLUN8kSwZPThzDP6nJJe6Xo61IfgDh-2BogUhf9rIZYhhYKdt2jQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">fhsu.edu/herndon-clinic/</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at 785-628-5366.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678826089877.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsDepartment of Communication Sciences and Disorders graduate students will travel to Great Bend, Kan., to offer free community hearing screenings. The screenings will be under the supervision of an FHSU Herndon Clinic instructor.Since the fall of 2016, more than 1,000 people at 30-plus events have received hearing screenings thanks to a grant from the Kansas Masonic Foundation. The Great Bend screening will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, March 24, at the Barton County Health Department, 1300 Kansas Ave., Great Bend. It is sponsored by the Great Bend Masonic Lodge #15.Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, each screening lasting approximately 15 minutes. Information about hearing loss and follow-up services will be shared during the screenings.Participants will receive hearing screening results, free hearing protection earplugs, referral information if needed, and helpful handouts related to hearing loss, such as tinnitus, hearing in noise, protecting residual hearing, and hearing aids. Hearing aids and other items will not be for sale at the screening.&nbsp;“The partnership between the FHSU Communication Sciences and Disorders Herndon Clinic and Kansas Masons is a win-win opportunity as we are helping many communities have easy access to an important free service yet also simultaneously gaining valuable clinical experiences for our students,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “We are grateful to the Kansas Masons for their support of this quality program.”Four graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders Department will provide the screenings. The students will gain important clinical hours for this service, while the community will benefit from the opportunity to have their hearing screened free of charge. All ages are welcome.This will be the final screening for the spring semester.To schedule an appointment for the Great Bend screening, contact Greg King at 620-617-3634 or the FHSU Herndon Clinic at 785-628-5366.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJMVEavxJ1Ig2BeI9r00Gz4Vbi0GQxT-2F5eRzs2OxejjckaoSn_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemLvw6uOLAvpAB2OMZfhuhfuxSA2wJMir5fEBnncT52Vv8t1kX8ekDmgVodzY6EAWbFU225Ed2wHiRdVW6l-2Fl7PZEmwvpxZ7KKvMqs4icvIRK7sgRa7o73-2Bct-2BJr9qeI-2BnGnFbLulF-2BK9-2BqtXCxE-2BhmAHqiaxVOfBosx6QKo3kkmfqA9Ey49Dr9vw5LMhCnfpsvlHuiFUxOr7EI8HZvhnPUHopugzdY-2BNKA3mWgLUN8kSwZPThzDP6nJJe6Xo61IfgDh-2BogUhf9rIZYhhYKdt2jQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">fhsu.edu/herndon-clinic/</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at 785-628-5366.

Free Herndon Clinic hearing screening to be offered in Great Bend

Great Bend High School senior August Siefkes competed in the IPPA Conero International Piano Festival &amp; Competition at the University of Kansas in Lawrence on March 11. 

Siefkes received a gold medal and has advanced to the international round to be held in Recanati, Italy in July. There is also a virtual option for competing.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678926422712.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School senior August Siefkes" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School senior August Siefkes</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend High School senior August Siefkes competed in the IPPA Conero International Piano Festival &amp; Competition at the University of Kansas in Lawrence on March 11. Siefkes received a gold medal and has advanced to the international round to be held in Recanati, Italy in July. There is also a virtual option for competing.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678926472286.jpeg" alt="Siefkes pictured with her piano instructor, Dr. Alejandro Avila" />
 <figcaption>Siefkes pictured with her piano instructor, Dr. Alejandro Avila</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678926536253.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678926560973.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend student advances to Italy's international piano competition

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling that aired March 15, 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 Steve Webster and Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling that aired March 15, 2023.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/bpcgmkf1/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: Human Resources Director Randy Keasling

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Any baseball or softball team, whether they’re associated with the Great
Bend Recreation Commission or traveling team, can fill out a form to request a
ballfield for practice. While not guaranteed your first choice, the Rec
Commission puts all the requests into a master plan for each spring and summer.


All the fields in town get plenty of use between practices and games, so much
so that there are sometimes a shortage. GBRC Sports Director Paul Zamarripa said
the Rec staff tries to make use of all the fields, including those at the Great
Bend Sports Complex. "With Field 1 just high school baseball, last year we added Blast Ball to it," said Zamarripa. "So we had our 3-4-year-old practices on it when it's not being used by the high school. We can spread a lot of kids out on that field." 
GBRC Director Chris Umphres said practice technically opens up April 15 but with nicer weather, teams are out earlier.

Umphres noted approximately 95% of
all the teams that practice and compete in Great Bend can be housed on a softball
field. Harms baseball field, near the 281 Bypass on the east side of town, can
only accommodate 14-and-over baseball, high school and college. Between play at
Al Burns Field and the two baseball fields at the Sports Complex, Harms Field
is often left idle. Umphres has discussed possibly transforming the baseball
field into two softball fields. "One barrier for the city is to tear up a sodded infield that has irrigation and supposed to be a baseball field," said Umphres. "We have it drawn up on how you can get two fields in there. We'd keep the exact same lighting, keep the same fence border. You'd turn two fields in so when the lights turn on, it would light both fields at the same time." 
Umphres added there has been some interest from private companies that might
sponsor the transformation of Harms Field.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678825628505.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAny baseball or softball team, whether they’re associated with the Great
Bend Recreation Commission or traveling team, can fill out a form to request a
ballfield for practice. While not guaranteed your first choice, the Rec
Commission puts all the requests into a master plan for each spring and summer.
All the fields in town get plenty of use between practices and games, so much
so that there are sometimes a shortage. GBRC Sports Director Paul Zamarripa said
the Rec staff tries to make use of all the fields, including those at the Great
Bend Sports Complex. "With Field 1 just high school baseball, last year we added Blast Ball to it," said Zamarripa. "So we had our 3-4-year-old practices on it when it's not being used by the high school. We can spread a lot of kids out on that field." 
GBRC Director Chris Umphres said practice technically opens up April 15 but with nicer weather, teams are out earlier. Umphres noted approximately 95% of
all the teams that practice and compete in Great Bend can be housed on a softball
field. Harms baseball field, near the 281 Bypass on the east side of town, can
only accommodate 14-and-over baseball, high school and college. Between play at
Al Burns Field and the two baseball fields at the Sports Complex, Harms Field
is often left idle. Umphres has discussed possibly transforming the baseball
field into two softball fields. "One barrier for the city is to tear up a sodded infield that has irrigation and supposed to be a baseball field," said Umphres. "We have it drawn up on how you can get two fields in there. We'd keep the exact same lighting, keep the same fence border. You'd turn two fields in so when the lights turn on, it would light both fields at the same time." 
Umphres added there has been some interest from private companies that might
sponsor the transformation of Harms Field.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Need more ballfields; idea to transform Harms Field in Great Bend

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (3/15) 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 3:59 a.m. a burglary was reported at 5529 Eisenhower. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (3/15) 
 
Prowler 
 
At 1:03 a.m. a report of seeing a flashlight behind her residence at 1514
Adams. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 3:59 a.m. a report of someone possibly trying to break into a vehicle was
made at 5529 Eisenhower. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:28 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at Broadway &amp; Morton. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:55 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:21 a.m. a vehicle parked in the handicap parking was reported at 1101
Kansas. It had a placard. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 11:52 a.m. a dog in the roadway was reported at 10th &amp;
Jefferson. Humane Society picked up the dog. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 1:16 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1919 Heizer. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 4:25 p.m. someone damaging the window on his residence was reported at 209
Holland. 
 
At 4:41 p.m. a subject throwing something at her vehicle and damaging it was
reported in the 2700 block of McKinley. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:36 p.m. a report of trespassing was made at 2415 Coronado. 
 
Fire 
 
At 7:49 p.m. a fire was reported in the 1000 block of Hubbard. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:53 p.m. a theft was reported at 1813 Holland. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 8:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 1811 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (3/15) 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 3:59 a.m. a burglary was reported at 5529 Eisenhower. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (3/15) 
 
Prowler 
 
At 1:03 a.m. a report of seeing a flashlight behind her residence at 1514
Adams. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 3:59 a.m. a report of someone possibly trying to break into a vehicle was
made at 5529 Eisenhower. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:28 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at Broadway &amp; Morton. 
 
Sick Person 
 
At 10:55 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:21 a.m. a vehicle parked in the handicap parking was reported at 1101
Kansas. It had a placard. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 11:52 a.m. a dog in the roadway was reported at 10th &amp;
Jefferson. Humane Society picked up the dog. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 1:16 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1919 Heizer. 
 
Criminal Damage 
 
At 4:25 p.m. someone damaging the window on his residence was reported at 209
Holland. 
 
At 4:41 p.m. a subject throwing something at her vehicle and damaging it was
reported in the 2700 block of McKinley. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:36 p.m. a report of trespassing was made at 2415 Coronado. 
 
Fire 
 
At 7:49 p.m. a fire was reported in the 1000 block of Hubbard. 
 
Theft 
 
At 7:53 p.m. a theft was reported at 1813 Holland. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 8:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 1811 Main.

Cop Shop (3/15)

3/15 BOOKED: Eric Ramos on two Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Derrick Bartonek on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 cash only.

BOOKED: Perry Blanchard on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault and Theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/15 BOOKED: Eric Ramos on two Barton County District Court cases, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Derrick Bartonek on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 cash only.BOOKED: Perry Blanchard on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Assault and Theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Derrick Bartonek on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 cash bond.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (3/15)

The current walking bridge on the south side of Veterans Lake in Great
Bend is over 20 years old. Many walkers and fishermen have made use of the
bridge, but the lumber and the floats are deteriorating. Great Bend Public
Lands Director Scott Keeler said the city received an estimate from EZ Dock to
purchase a 230' bridge, with ramps, for $132,055. "With council approval we will be moving forward," said Keeler. "Most of this money will be FEMA reimbursement from the wind storm and the flooding." 
Great Bend staff could install the bridge themselves next fall or winter or EZ Dock can
have it installed this spring for an extra $26,500. 
The city has the majority of the money needed set aside from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) money and has
unencumbered cash that was transferred in 2022 that could cover the difference. 
The motion to approve the purchase of the walking bridge at Veterans Lake will
go before the Great Bend City Council at their meeting on Monday, March 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the city council approved a bid to replace the fishing docks at Vets Lake and Stone lake in March 2021, the city passed on a projected bid of $99,000 for the bridge replacement at the time.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/88b761d1-34cd-49f3-9862-bb3557b4de53">RELATED STORY: Great Bend to replace docks at Vets and Stone lakes</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678912346828.jpeg" alt="Walking / fishing bridge at Veterans Lake in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>Walking / fishing bridge at Veterans Lake in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe current walking bridge on the south side of Veterans Lake in Great
Bend is over 20 years old. Many walkers and fishermen have made use of the
bridge, but the lumber and the floats are deteriorating. Great Bend Public
Lands Director Scott Keeler said the city received an estimate from EZ Dock to
purchase a 230' bridge, with ramps, for $132,055. "With council approval we will be moving forward," said Keeler. "Most of this money will be FEMA reimbursement from the wind storm and the flooding." 
Great Bend staff could install the bridge themselves next fall or winter or EZ Dock can
have it installed this spring for an extra $26,500. 
The city has the majority of the money needed set aside from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) money and has
unencumbered cash that was transferred in 2022 that could cover the difference. 
The motion to approve the purchase of the walking bridge at Veterans Lake will
go before the Great Bend City Council at their meeting on Monday, March 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the city council approved a bid to replace the fishing docks at Vets Lake and Stone lake in March 2021, the city passed on a projected bid of $99,000 for the bridge replacement at the time.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/88b761d1-34cd-49f3-9862-bb3557b4de53">RELATED STORY: Great Bend to replace docks at Vets and Stone lakes</a>

Great Bend receives bid to replace bridge at Vets Lake

Thursday Rain likely before 2 p.m., then rain and snow likely between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a slight chance of snow after 4 p.m. Cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 34 by 3 p.m. Windy, with a west wind 29 to 36 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 49 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Thursday Night Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 22. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 24 to 29 mph decreasing to 16 to 21 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 43 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 47. North-northwest wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19. North-northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 38.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 54. Breezy.

Monday Night A slight chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Tuesday A slight chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Breezy.

Tuesday Night A chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Breezy.

Wednesday A slight chance of drizzle. Partly sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday Rain likely before 2 p.m., then rain and snow likely between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a slight chance of snow after 4 p.m. Cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 34 by 3 p.m. Windy, with a west wind 29 to 36 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 49 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.Thursday Night Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 22. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 24 to 29 mph decreasing to 16 to 21 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 43 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 47. North-northwest wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19. North-northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 38.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27.Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 54. Breezy.Monday Night A slight chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.Tuesday A slight chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Breezy.Tuesday Night A chance of drizzle. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Breezy.Wednesday A slight chance of drizzle. Partly sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Let's not get ahead of ourselves. That was the message from Ellinwood officials during Tuesday's city council meeting in front of a packed house at the School-Community Library. Mayor Irlan Fullbright addressed the issue of converting the former Woodhaven Care Center into a shelter for immigrant refugees.

"I think we're getting the cart before the horse," he said. "Until the zoning question is resolved through planning commission, ownership of the property, I think we're at a moot point is my opinion, unless somebody tells me different. We're getting ahead of ourselves as far as getting approval or talking about bringing people here. You have to have a place to put them before you bring them here, and at this point in time, we don't have that."

Royal Flagg and Bryce Carbajal have expressed interest in the project. Carbajal would own the property, with Flagg as the shelter's operations manager. City Administrator Chris Komarek met with Flagg after the issue was first brought to the council nearly a month ago. Komarek said, at this point, zoning ordinance would not allow the project within city limits.

"The biggest thing the city is concerned about at this point is whether that type of operation is allowed under our zoning," Komarek said. "We've come to the conclusion that the definition of this operation they want to run out of this building is going to be a shelter. It's a shelter for refugees. In reviewing the zoning ordinance we have, we don't even have a definition for a shelter in our zoning ordinance, let alone we do not allow such an operation in any of our zoning districts."

Komarek described the seven zoning districts in the city. Woodhaven was in an R3 zone for multi-family structures like apartments and four-plexes, though schools, hospitals, churches, and rest homes can exist in any of the three residential zones.  Komarek said no one can request a zoning change without owning the property in question, and Carbajal does not own the Woodhaven building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590785388573.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLet's not get ahead of ourselves. That was the message from Ellinwood officials during Tuesday's city council meeting in front of a packed house at the School-Community Library. Mayor Irlan Fullbright addressed the issue of converting the former Woodhaven Care Center into a shelter for immigrant refugees."I think we're getting the cart before the horse," he said. "Until the zoning question is resolved through planning commission, ownership of the property, I think we're at a moot point is my opinion, unless somebody tells me different. We're getting ahead of ourselves as far as getting approval or talking about bringing people here. You have to have a place to put them before you bring them here, and at this point in time, we don't have that."Royal Flagg and Bryce Carbajal have expressed interest in the project. Carbajal would own the property, with Flagg as the shelter's operations manager. City Administrator Chris Komarek met with Flagg after the issue was first brought to the council nearly a month ago. Komarek said, at this point, zoning ordinance would not allow the project within city limits."The biggest thing the city is concerned about at this point is whether that type of operation is allowed under our zoning," Komarek said. "We've come to the conclusion that the definition of this operation they want to run out of this building is going to be a shelter. It's a shelter for refugees. In reviewing the zoning ordinance we have, we don't even have a definition for a shelter in our zoning ordinance, let alone we do not allow such an operation in any of our zoning districts."Komarek described the seven zoning districts in the city. Woodhaven was in an R3 zone for multi-family structures like apartments and four-plexes, though schools, hospitals, churches, and rest homes can exist in any of the three residential zones. Komarek said no one can request a zoning change without owning the property in question, and Carbajal does not own the Woodhaven building.

Ellinwood officials: Zoning ordinance would not allow refugee shelter

For the first time in the 20-year history of the Kansas Tobacco Quitline 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is offering all phone coaching enrollees eight weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy while supplies last. Public Health Educator Katelyn Sigler with the Barton County Health Department said it's a big deal for those with insurance that does not cover the therapy.

"Having that ability for the free eight weeks is an awesome deal," she said. "Quitting is so hard, and it takes multiple attempts. This just, I feel like, will give a lot of people the step they need when they didn't have money for Nicotine Replacement Therapy, and maybe that was a barrier for them. Now that barrier can be taken down, and they can get the help they need."

Participants 18 years and older who want to quit smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco and enroll in the phone coaching program can choose a lozenge, gum, or patch that will be mailed directly to their home if they enroll by midnight on Sunday, April 30. Sigler said, along with the coaching program, it helps to have personal reasons to quit.

"Maybe you have health concerns you want to improve, and that's your motivation," she said. "You have family and friends that want you to quit, and that's your motivation." 

The Kansas Tobacco Quitline is a free, 24/7 resource available to Kansas residents to help them quit smoking. The Quitline provides help, such as counseling, a personalized Quit Plan, and quitting support by phone and through online services. A survey of Quitline users highlighted that 90 percent of participants were satisfied with the Quitline coaches and counselors. The Quitline can be reached by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643909809778.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For the first time in the 20-year history of the Kansas Tobacco Quitline 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is offering all phone coaching enrollees eight weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy while supplies last. Public Health Educator Katelyn Sigler with the Barton County Health Department said it's a big deal for those with insurance that does not cover the therapy."Having that ability for the free eight weeks is an awesome deal," she said. "Quitting is so hard, and it takes multiple attempts. This just, I feel like, will give a lot of people the step they need when they didn't have money for Nicotine Replacement Therapy, and maybe that was a barrier for them. Now that barrier can be taken down, and they can get the help they need."Participants 18 years and older who want to quit smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco and enroll in the phone coaching program can choose a lozenge, gum, or patch that will be mailed directly to their home if they enroll by midnight on Sunday, April 30. Sigler said, along with the coaching program, it helps to have personal reasons to quit."Maybe you have health concerns you want to improve, and that's your motivation," she said. "You have family and friends that want you to quit, and that's your motivation." The Kansas Tobacco Quitline is a free, 24/7 resource available to Kansas residents to help them quit smoking. The Quitline provides help, such as counseling, a personalized Quit Plan, and quitting support by phone and through online services. A survey of Quitline users highlighted that 90 percent of participants were satisfied with the Quitline coaches and counselors. The Quitline can be reached by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

Barton Co. Health Educator: KDHE offers free tobacco cessation program

The Barton County Historical Society hosts Ellinwood native Robert Yarmer who will present “Early Ellinwood in Pictures” at 7 p.m., Monday, March 27 at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Highway 281, Great Bend. Admission is free for members of the society and $5 for others wishing to attend the program. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Light refreshments are provided.

Yarmer has selected 140 photographs of Ellinwood history to discuss, including images of the various depots that have served Ellinwood, the mills and elevators that have provided grain storage and flour to area residents, and the many churches which have afforded religious services to the eastern Barton County residents. 

The Barton County Historical Society is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and will begin additional summer hours in April, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678802060424.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Historical Society hosts Ellinwood native Robert Yarmer who will present “Early Ellinwood in Pictures” at 7 p.m., Monday, March 27 at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Highway 281, Great Bend. Admission is free for members of the society and $5 for others wishing to attend the program. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Light refreshments are provided.Yarmer has selected 140 photographs of Ellinwood history to discuss, including images of the various depots that have served Ellinwood, the mills and elevators that have provided grain storage and flour to area residents, and the many churches which have afforded religious services to the eastern Barton County residents. The Barton County Historical Society is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and will begin additional summer hours in April, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678802082296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

'Early Ellinwood in Pictures' presentation March 27

Walk Kansas is an eight-week challenge focusing on physical activity and healthy eating. Walking or running or biking more than 400 miles across the state of Kansas over the next eight weeks would seem a bit intimidating to most folks.

Yet, an estimated 5,000 people in Kansas and beyond are gearing up to do just that as part of a popular program that kicks off on March 26.

Walk Kansas, a team-based challenge that encourages teams of six to exercise and live more healthfully while working toward a common goal, will run through May 20. Registration is available online through the end of March. The cost is $10 per person.

“When we created Walk Kansas in 2001, we were looking at the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, which recommend a minimum 150 minutes of activity per week,” said Sharolyn Jackson, a K-State Research and Extension northeast area specialist and the state leader for Walk Kansas for more than two decades.

“So we determined that if six people would collectively meet the minimum guidelines of physical activity, they could virtually walk across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles, in about eight weeks.”

Jackson said many forms of activity count toward “miles” accumulated. She said miles are calculated based on minutes of activity, with adjustments for moderate or vigorous forms of activity. To reach 150 minutes a week, she urges participants to make a goal to exercise 20-30 minutes per day.

“We count any type of activity that gets your heart beating a little bit faster, or exerting energy to where you can carry on a conversation just barely, but you can’t sing; that’s the moderate intensity level,” she said. “And vigorous activity also gives real benefits, such as short bursts of 30 seconds to a minute while you’re walking; you can kind of gauge vigorous exercise by whether you can say a few words but not really carry on a conversation.”

This year’s program offers four Walk Kansas routes:

· Route 1 is 435 miles past Eight Wonders of Kansas. An online map shows team members some of the sights they’ll pass as they work toward their goal. Teams can reach this goal by meeting the minimum guideline of 150 minutes per week for each team member.

· Route 2 is new this year – and actually begins in New Mexico. The distance covered is 640 miles and requires 200 minutes per week for each team member.

· Route 3 challenges teams to cover 764 miles, beginning in the northeast corner of Kansas and finishing in the southwest corner. It requires about 240 minutes of exercise per week for each team member.

· Route 4 is called the Little Balkans route, beginning in southeast Kansas to Nicodemus, with numerous turns. Those teams ambitious enough to take on this challenge will cover 1,200 miles – or six hours of exercise per week, per person.

There is also a solo trail for those who don’t have a team, or just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge.

In addition to tracking their minutes of activity, participants are asked to report the number of cups of fruits and vegetables and, optionally, water they consume weekly. Participants are also encouraged to add in some type of strength exercise at least two days per week.

From April 2 through May 14 – Weeks 2 through 7 of Walk Kansas – Jackson said organizers will offer a weekly webinar on healthy eating, focusing on the Mediterranean eating style. The course is called Med Instead of Meds,’ to reflect the goal to help participants learn ways to potentially replace medications with healthy eating.

Please call or email if you have questions!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Walk Kansas is an eight-week challenge focusing on physical activity and healthy eating. Walking or running or biking more than 400 miles across the state of Kansas over the next eight weeks would seem a bit intimidating to most folks.Yet, an estimated 5,000 people in Kansas and beyond are gearing up to do just that as part of a popular program that kicks off on March 26.Walk Kansas, a team-based challenge that encourages teams of six to exercise and live more healthfully while working toward a common goal, will run through May 20. Registration is available online through the end of March. The cost is $10 per person.“When we created Walk Kansas in 2001, we were looking at the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, which recommend a minimum 150 minutes of activity per week,” said Sharolyn Jackson, a K-State Research and Extension northeast area specialist and the state leader for Walk Kansas for more than two decades.“So we determined that if six people would collectively meet the minimum guidelines of physical activity, they could virtually walk across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles, in about eight weeks.”Jackson said many forms of activity count toward “miles” accumulated. She said miles are calculated based on minutes of activity, with adjustments for moderate or vigorous forms of activity. To reach 150 minutes a week, she urges participants to make a goal to exercise 20-30 minutes per day.“We count any type of activity that gets your heart beating a little bit faster, or exerting energy to where you can carry on a conversation just barely, but you can’t sing; that’s the moderate intensity level,” she said. “And vigorous activity also gives real benefits, such as short bursts of 30 seconds to a minute while you’re walking; you can kind of gauge vigorous exercise by whether you can say a few words but not really carry on a conversation.”This year’s program offers four Walk Kansas routes:· Route 1 is 435 miles past Eight Wonders of Kansas. An online map shows team members some of the sights they’ll pass as they work toward their goal. Teams can reach this goal by meeting the minimum guideline of 150 minutes per week for each team member.· Route 2 is new this year – and actually begins in New Mexico. The distance covered is 640 miles and requires 200 minutes per week for each team member.· Route 3 challenges teams to cover 764 miles, beginning in the northeast corner of Kansas and finishing in the southwest corner. It requires about 240 minutes of exercise per week for each team member.· Route 4 is called the Little Balkans route, beginning in southeast Kansas to Nicodemus, with numerous turns. Those teams ambitious enough to take on this challenge will cover 1,200 miles – or six hours of exercise per week, per person.There is also a solo trail for those who don’t have a team, or just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge.In addition to tracking their minutes of activity, participants are asked to report the number of cups of fruits and vegetables and, optionally, water they consume weekly. Participants are also encouraged to add in some type of strength exercise at least two days per week.From April 2 through May 14 – Weeks 2 through 7 of Walk Kansas – Jackson said organizers will offer a weekly webinar on healthy eating, focusing on the Mediterranean eating style. The course is called Med Instead of Meds,’ to reflect the goal to help participants learn ways to potentially replace medications with healthy eating.Please call or email if you have questions!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Popular Walk Kansas program gears up for 2023

At Tuesday’s Barton Community College Board of Trustees meeting, Vice
President of Administration Mark Dean notified the board of the tuition and fees changes for the 2023-2024 school year. Barton County residents will pay the
same $113 per credit hour as they did this year. Students from around the state,
outside the state and international students will see $2 or $4 increases per
credit hour. 
Dean noted there will be substantial changes to the tuition and fees for high
school students that enroll in their classes, whether on campus or dual credit
at their high school. Barton will significantly drop the cost for high school
students that take their courses to compete with other colleges. "There are a number of other community colleges that are putting in place different tuition rates for high school students," said Dean. "Some of those colleges are trying to take away our business. They're getting into our area, and we need to get into their area. These rates will allow us to do that." 
In the past, if a high school student that lives in Barton County wanted to
enroll in a Barton class, they would pay the same $113 tuition and fees that any other
in-county student would. Sometimes, the college was able to award scholarships
to those high school students to reduce the cost, but Barton will now lower the
tuition and fees to $50 per credit hour for all high school students in Kansas. "Competitors that are trying to get these high school students put in these types of rates, but then they have to add a $200 or $300 textbook," said Dean. "Add that into their cost. If we can do the low-cost, no-cost textbook, we have a better deal right away." 
Dean said the lowered cost encourages more students to take Barton classes, but
also encourages more high schools to contract through Barton for their courses.

Cost per Credit Hour at Barton Community College

In-County 2022-23: $113 In-County 2023-24: $113

In-State 2022-23: $120 In-State 2023-24: $122

Out-of-State 2022-23: $147 Out-of-State 2023-24: $151

International 2022-23: $210 International 2023-24: $214

Out of the 19 community colleges in Kansas, Barton had the 10th cheapest rate for in-county tuition and fees in the 2022-2023 school year.&nbsp;The board will vote on the recommended tuition and fees at the meeting on March 28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678905427003.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt Tuesday’s Barton Community College Board of Trustees meeting, Vice
President of Administration Mark Dean notified the board of the tuition and fees changes for the 2023-2024 school year. Barton County residents will pay the
same $113 per credit hour as they did this year. Students from around the state,
outside the state and international students will see $2 or $4 increases per
credit hour. 
Dean noted there will be substantial changes to the tuition and fees for high
school students that enroll in their classes, whether on campus or dual credit
at their high school. Barton will significantly drop the cost for high school
students that take their courses to compete with other colleges. "There are a number of other community colleges that are putting in place different tuition rates for high school students," said Dean. "Some of those colleges are trying to take away our business. They're getting into our area, and we need to get into their area. These rates will allow us to do that." 
In the past, if a high school student that lives in Barton County wanted to
enroll in a Barton class, they would pay the same $113 tuition and fees that any other
in-county student would. Sometimes, the college was able to award scholarships
to those high school students to reduce the cost, but Barton will now lower the
tuition and fees to $50 per credit hour for all high school students in Kansas. "Competitors that are trying to get these high school students put in these types of rates, but then they have to add a $200 or $300 textbook," said Dean. "Add that into their cost. If we can do the low-cost, no-cost textbook, we have a better deal right away." 
Dean said the lowered cost encourages more students to take Barton classes, but
also encourages more high schools to contract through Barton for their courses.Cost per Credit Hour at Barton Community CollegeIn-County 2022-23: $113 In-County 2023-24: $113In-State 2022-23: $120 In-State 2023-24: $122Out-of-State 2022-23: $147 Out-of-State 2023-24: $151International 2022-23: $210 International 2023-24: $214Out of the 19 community colleges in Kansas, Barton had the 10th cheapest rate for in-county tuition and fees in the 2022-2023 school year.&nbsp;The board will vote on the recommended tuition and fees at the meeting on March 28.

Barton CC reacts to colleges luring away high school enrollment

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Like so many other things, severe weather seems to have slowed down with the onset of COVID-19. At Monday's "Storm Fury on the Plains" presentation at the Crest Theater in Great Bend, National Weather Service Forecaster Robb Lawson said severe storm numbers have been down over the past three years, but Kansas still leads the nation in severe weather activity. 

"Despite it being below normal, we can't get complacent," he said. "We've been saying that for the last few years. Because even though it was a really quiet year, we still did have tornado events. You still do get tornadoes, even in quiet years. It only takes one really big tornado to really cause some damage."

Last year, the Weather Service issued 981 warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flash floods. That was down 376 from the average. Warnings numbers were 302 below average in 2021, and 349 below average in 2020. It's the lowest three-year count since 1992. 

But, Lawson said, those numbers are likely to rebound. And when they do, the National Weather Service relies on spotters to relay information to the public. Radar technology has improved greatly over the last several years, but it still has limitations near the ground. The Weather Service can issue a warning based on radar, but they can add credibility to the warning with details provided by spotters.

"We can put that a tornado is already in progress; it's already doing damage," Lawson said. "To do that, we need spotters. Or maybe you have baseball-size hail. We can put that in the body of the warning. This storm has a history of producing baseball-size hail; it's coming into Great Bend. Please take shelter immediately."

Lawson also referred to the "cone of silence" around radar, or an antenna blind spot. Because cities like Wichita and Andover are so close to a radar station, the National Weather Service often uses the radar out of Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla., for predictions in those areas. Last year's April 29 tornado in Andover barely registered on local radar, making storm spotters all the more important.

Accurate reporting is also essential for keeping the public informed. Lawson outlined a few items the NWS always wants to know, including exact times and locations, which should reference nearby towns when possible since the Weather Service may not understand references to local roads. Reports can be made to the NWS via social media, with Twitter (@NWSWichita) being the preferred platform. Other reporting tips:

- Report size and whether or not hail is still falling. Use coin or ball references when possible, but keep references simple when relating size.

- Report any wind damage to trees and structures.

- Report any funnels or tornadoes. If you cannot see the funnel touching the ground or circulation on the ground, report that. Also, report if the funnel is still on the ground or has gone back into the clouds.

- Report any flooding water over roads, ditches filling, or submerged vehicles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678802902708.jpeg" alt="Robb Lawson with the National Weather Service presented Monday's "Storm Fury on the Plains" at the Crest Theater in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Robb Lawson with the National Weather Service presented Monday's "Storm Fury on the Plains" at the Crest Theater in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLike so many other things, severe weather seems to have slowed down with the onset of COVID-19. At Monday's "Storm Fury on the Plains" presentation at the Crest Theater in Great Bend, National Weather Service Forecaster Robb Lawson said severe storm numbers have been down over the past three years, but Kansas still leads the nation in severe weather activity. "Despite it being below normal, we can't get complacent," he said. "We've been saying that for the last few years. Because even though it was a really quiet year, we still did have tornado events. You still do get tornadoes, even in quiet years. It only takes one really big tornado to really cause some damage."Last year, the Weather Service issued 981 warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flash floods. That was down 376 from the average. Warnings numbers were 302 below average in 2021, and 349 below average in 2020. It's the lowest three-year count since 1992. But, Lawson said, those numbers are likely to rebound. And when they do, the National Weather Service relies on spotters to relay information to the public. Radar technology has improved greatly over the last several years, but it still has limitations near the ground. The Weather Service can issue a warning based on radar, but they can add credibility to the warning with details provided by spotters."We can put that a tornado is already in progress; it's already doing damage," Lawson said. "To do that, we need spotters. Or maybe you have baseball-size hail. We can put that in the body of the warning. This storm has a history of producing baseball-size hail; it's coming into Great Bend. Please take shelter immediately."Lawson also referred to the "cone of silence" around radar, or an antenna blind spot. Because cities like Wichita and Andover are so close to a radar station, the National Weather Service often uses the radar out of Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla., for predictions in those areas. Last year's April 29 tornado in Andover barely registered on local radar, making storm spotters all the more important.Accurate reporting is also essential for keeping the public informed. Lawson outlined a few items the NWS always wants to know, including exact times and locations, which should reference nearby towns when possible since the Weather Service may not understand references to local roads. Reports can be made to the NWS via social media, with Twitter (@NWSWichita) being the preferred platform. Other reporting tips:- Report size and whether or not hail is still falling. Use coin or ball references when possible, but keep references simple when relating size.- Report any wind damage to trees and structures.- Report any funnels or tornadoes. If you cannot see the funnel touching the ground or circulation on the ground, report that. Also, report if the funnel is still on the ground or has gone back into the clouds.- Report any flooding water over roads, ditches filling, or submerged vehicles.

Spotters crucial when storms appear over Central Kansas

Community members wanting to pick up some new reading material will have an opportunity to do so at no cost at the Barton Community College Library’s “Cougar Book Fair” from April 14-16 in the Barton Library in the center of campus. The schedule is as follows: April 14: 5-7 p.m. “Cougar Night” for Barton students, faculty, staff, and alumni only. April 15: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Open to the public. April 16: 1- 5 p.m. Open to the public.

Books are free and are predominately used hardcovers. Books will be sorted into academic classifications for easier browsing. There will be several fiction books available as well. Library staff asks that all attendees exercise courtesy when browsing selections and refrain from sweeping tables, stashing or other forms of hoarding. No dealers or barcode scanners will be allowed. For more information, contact Director of Library and College Archives Darren Ivey at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:iveyd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">iveyd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9362.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678732568015.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaCommunity members wanting to pick up some new reading material will have an opportunity to do so at no cost at the Barton Community College Library’s “Cougar Book Fair” from April 14-16 in the Barton Library in the center of campus. The schedule is as follows: April 14: 5-7 p.m. “Cougar Night” for Barton students, faculty, staff, and alumni only. April 15: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Open to the public. April 16: 1- 5 p.m. Open to the public.Books are free and are predominately used hardcovers. Books will be sorted into academic classifications for easier browsing. There will be several fiction books available as well. Library staff asks that all attendees exercise courtesy when browsing selections and refrain from sweeping tables, stashing or other forms of hoarding. No dealers or barcode scanners will be allowed. For more information, contact Director of Library and College Archives Darren Ivey at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:iveyd@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">iveyd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9362.

Barton Community College Library to host book fair

Sometimes it is the small things in life that can bring pure joy. A
mundane project at the Great Bend Sports Complex will please anyone that has
watched a baseball or softball game from their own folding chair or the first row of the bleachers. 
When the Sports Complex was first constructed in 2012, the middle hub of
seating was supposed to be raised. Without the elevated surface a metal bar
from the chain link fence cuts right across your vision if sitting in a folding
chair or in the first row of the bleachers. 
Great Bend Recreation Commission Director Chris Umphres said a project last
week lowered the bar from 4' to 3' off the ground. "You'll also see a new black netting," said Umphres. "We'll have the chain link fence lowered and brand new black netting all the way across. You won't have any chain link in your way. We're used to the netting before, but this will be a non-weathered net." 
The bar and net upgrades were combined with the addition of a batter’s eye beyond
the centerfield fence on Field 1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678807087271.jpeg" alt="The metal bar on the fencing behind home plate at the Great Bend Sports Complex was lowered from 4' tall to 3' to remove a viewing hinderance for fans in the first row of the bleachers." />
 <figcaption>The metal bar on the fencing behind home plate at the Great Bend Sports Complex was lowered from 4' tall to 3' to remove a viewing hinderance for fans in the first row of the bleachers.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostSometimes it is the small things in life that can bring pure joy. A
mundane project at the Great Bend Sports Complex will please anyone that has
watched a baseball or softball game from their own folding chair or the first row of the bleachers. 
When the Sports Complex was first constructed in 2012, the middle hub of
seating was supposed to be raised. Without the elevated surface a metal bar
from the chain link fence cuts right across your vision if sitting in a folding
chair or in the first row of the bleachers. 
Great Bend Recreation Commission Director Chris Umphres said a project last
week lowered the bar from 4' to 3' off the ground. "You'll also see a new black netting," said Umphres. "We'll have the chain link fence lowered and brand new black netting all the way across. You won't have any chain link in your way. We're used to the netting before, but this will be a non-weathered net." 
The bar and net upgrades were combined with the addition of a batter’s eye beyond
the centerfield fence on Field 1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678807543116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

The small things: Front row seating visually better at GB Sports Complex

Action was light at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting, with only three appointments to the Central Kansas Community Corrections Advisory Board requiring votes. Human Resources Director Brenda Kaiser did speak about fulfilling several open positions in the county to ensure services remain up to par after several retirements.

"The positions in the county are great for individuals who like a predictable schedule and want to have a more limited travel schedule," she said. "Most travel, other than training, is limited to Barton County with our current vacancies."

There are a wide variety of vacant positions, from temporary summer help with road and bridge to a position as assistant county attorney. Full-time registered nurses are needed at the health department and benefit from a family-friend Monday through Friday schedule. Equipment operators are needed at the landfill and with road and bridge, detention officers are needed at the sheriff's office, and dispatchers are needed at 911.

"All of these are full-time positions and have an insurance package, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance," Kaiser said. "The KPERS retirement plan pays a set amount after you're vested, which will be paid for the rest of your life. Of course, the longer you work for a KPERS employer, the larger your payout in retirement will be."

A full list of openings by <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Jobs">CLICKING HERE</a>. The county requests applicants use the fillable job application found on the website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAction was light at Wednesday's Barton County Commission meeting, with only three appointments to the Central Kansas Community Corrections Advisory Board requiring votes. Human Resources Director Brenda Kaiser did speak about fulfilling several open positions in the county to ensure services remain up to par after several retirements."The positions in the county are great for individuals who like a predictable schedule and want to have a more limited travel schedule," she said. "Most travel, other than training, is limited to Barton County with our current vacancies."There are a wide variety of vacant positions, from temporary summer help with road and bridge to a position as assistant county attorney. Full-time registered nurses are needed at the health department and benefit from a family-friend Monday through Friday schedule. Equipment operators are needed at the landfill and with road and bridge, detention officers are needed at the sheriff's office, and dispatchers are needed at 911."All of these are full-time positions and have an insurance package, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance," Kaiser said. "The KPERS retirement plan pays a set amount after you're vested, which will be paid for the rest of your life. Of course, the longer you work for a KPERS employer, the larger your payout in retirement will be."A full list of openings by <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Jobs">CLICKING HERE</a>. The county requests applicants use the fillable job application found on the website.

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