By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Logan Burns, Interim City Administrator and Building Official for the
City of Great Bend, conducted a visual inspection of a house located at 214
Locust Street. Burns noted that the south side of the structure has all the
siding missing leaving only the studs on the exterior. 
Code Enforcement Supervisor Art Keffer said the west side shows two windows out
and a large hole in the siding that is open to the environment. 
"They've taken out pretty much all of the windows and most of the roof," said Keffer. "It's not habitable by any stretch. This is the property that the owner of the land said the mobile home is not his." 
The interior of the mobile home appears to be completely gutted. The owner
appears to have started demolishing the property, but progress seems to have
stopped. 
The Great Bend City Council voted to schedule a public hearing for the unsafe
structure for Feb. 21. The hearing will allow owners or
citizens with an interest in the property to speak. Depending on the progress
of the repairs to the mobile home, the city council will decide whether or not
to raze the structure.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672796653915.jpeg" alt="214 Locust Street in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>214 Locust Street in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLogan Burns, Interim City Administrator and Building Official for the
City of Great Bend, conducted a visual inspection of a house located at 214
Locust Street. Burns noted that the south side of the structure has all the
siding missing leaving only the studs on the exterior. 
Code Enforcement Supervisor Art Keffer said the west side shows two windows out
and a large hole in the siding that is open to the environment. 
"They've taken out pretty much all of the windows and most of the roof," said Keffer. "It's not habitable by any stretch. This is the property that the owner of the land said the mobile home is not his." 
The interior of the mobile home appears to be completely gutted. The owner
appears to have started demolishing the property, but progress seems to have
stopped. 
The Great Bend City Council voted to schedule a public hearing for the unsafe
structure for Feb. 21. The hearing will allow owners or
citizens with an interest in the property to speak. Depending on the progress
of the repairs to the mobile home, the city council will decide whether or not
to raze the structure.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Public hearing set for unsafe mobile home in Great Bend

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3dU02sO. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Agenda Meeting January 4, 2023 9:00 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the December 28, 2022, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devises. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. DESIGNATION OF OFFICIAL DEPOSITORIES FOR COUNTY FUNDS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will present details. A designation of Barton County financial institutions as official depositories comes before the Commission. Such institutions must meet the 100% pledged securities requirement for all County funds. According to County Resolution 2017-16, all depositories must provide to the County Treasurer proof of security for these funds whenever such information is requested.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. RESOLUTION 2023-01: Reissuing of Outdated Checks and Submission of Payments to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Jordan will present details. This proposed Resolution outlines a policy that addresses the reissuing of outdated checked and the submission of unclaimed monies to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division. Generally, uncashed checks under $100.00 will be reissued and monies owed for uncashed checks over $100.00 will be submitted to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division, less the bank fee for voiding the check.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. RESOLUTION 2023-02: A Resolution Creating a Cost Application for the Installation of Culverts or Entrances and Rescinding Resolution 2003-14, Same, Adopted August 4, 2003: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. The proposed Resolution updates a 2003 Resolution dealing with Cost Applications for the Installation of Culverts or Entrances. Updates include detailing both the County’s and the property owner’s financial obligations and defining “culvert”.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Repair of a 2012 Ford F350: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will present details. Mr. Williams initiated the repair a 2012 Ford F350 that is currently utilized by the department. Generally, the vehicle requires an engine replacement. The Commission will be asked to consider ratifying the repair cost.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. APPRAISER: Equitable Solutions – Commerical Analysis for Tax Year 2023: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details. Equitable Solutions, LLC offers mass appraisal assistance in the State of Kansas. Use of an outside agency to perform this analysis ensures fair and equitable values through land valuation, commercial depreciation, income and expense analysis, rate studys and a review.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Given that three new Commissioners will be sworn-in on Monday, January 9, 2023, limited study sessions will be held. This will include certain resolutions to be presented by Commission Kirby Krier.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Kirby Krier is scheduled for January 5, 2023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday, January 9, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603471494276.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3dU02sO. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERSAgenda Meeting January 4, 2023 9:00 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the December 28, 2022, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devises. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;- There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. DESIGNATION OF OFFICIAL DEPOSITORIES FOR COUNTY FUNDS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will present details. A designation of Barton County financial institutions as official depositories comes before the Commission. Such institutions must meet the 100% pledged securities requirement for all County funds. According to County Resolution 2017-16, all depositories must provide to the County Treasurer proof of security for these funds whenever such information is requested.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. RESOLUTION 2023-01: Reissuing of Outdated Checks and Submission of Payments to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Jordan will present details. This proposed Resolution outlines a policy that addresses the reissuing of outdated checked and the submission of unclaimed monies to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division. Generally, uncashed checks under $100.00 will be reissued and monies owed for uncashed checks over $100.00 will be submitted to the Kansas State Treasurer, Unclaimed Property Division, less the bank fee for voiding the check.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. RESOLUTION 2023-02: A Resolution Creating a Cost Application for the Installation of Culverts or Entrances and Rescinding Resolution 2003-14, Same, Adopted August 4, 2003: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will provide details. The proposed Resolution updates a 2003 Resolution dealing with Cost Applications for the Installation of Culverts or Entrances. Updates include detailing both the County’s and the property owner’s financial obligations and defining “culvert”.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Repair of a 2012 Ford F350: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will present details. Mr. Williams initiated the repair a 2012 Ford F350 that is currently utilized by the department. Generally, the vehicle requires an engine replacement. The Commission will be asked to consider ratifying the repair cost.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. APPRAISER: Equitable Solutions – Commerical Analysis for Tax Year 2023: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser, will provide details. Equitable Solutions, LLC offers mass appraisal assistance in the State of Kansas. Use of an outside agency to perform this analysis ensures fair and equitable values through land valuation, commercial depreciation, income and expense analysis, rate studys and a review.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Given that three new Commissioners will be sworn-in on Monday, January 9, 2023, limited study sessions will be held. This will include certain resolutions to be presented by Commission Kirby Krier.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Commissioner Kirby Krier is scheduled for January 5, 2023.V. OTHER BUSINESS:&nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Wednesdays during regular business hours.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Wednesdays.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday, January 9, 2023.VI. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (1/4)

From U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall's office...

Exactly two years ago today, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. was sworn in to represent Kansas in the U.S. Senate. He’s been hard at work fighting to defend our Kansas values&nbsp;and way of life. From completing the 105 town hall listening tour across&nbsp;every county in Kansas to putting a stop to Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate for our military, to visiting Kansans deployed in Germany, and more, Senator Marshall and our team accomplished a great deal in his second year in office.

“As I traveled across each of Kansas’ 105 counties this past year, I heard loud and clear that I was sent to D.C. to fight for the people of Kansas, for all Americans, but more than anyone else, I was sent here to fight for our children and grandchildren. It’s a great honor, and a greater responsibility as this Senate seat belongs to the citizens, past and present, of Kansas,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall. “I came to Washington to make a difference, not just a point. While we face many challenges ahead as a nation given the failed policies of this Administration, I will never stop fighting for our Kansas values and our way of life.”

Being Responsive and Solving Issues Kansans have with the Federal Government:

In November of 2022, Senator Marshall completed his goal to hold&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iswpmQ4ylyk" target="_blank">105 public town hall meetings</a>&nbsp;in each of Kansas’ 105 counties. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iswpmQ4ylyk" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch a highlight video from his 105 town hall meetings.

Additionally, Senator Marshall’s office conducted remote office hours in 10 different communities, providing direct access to his office for Kansans who live more than an hour away from one of the Senator’s offices. Furthermore, Senator Marshall provided resources and technical assistance to business and community leaders in all 105 counties, and wrote more than 50 letters of support to accompany federal grant applications from Kansas communities and organizations. The Senator also helped Kansans from 95 different communities interact with federal agencies on over 1,500 cases dealing with federal government issues.&nbsp;In 2022, dedicated members of Senator Marshall’s staff&nbsp;proudly assisted 143 veterans, 187 Kansans with IRS&nbsp;&nbsp;issues, 119 seniors with social security matters, along with&nbsp;110 passport hurdles. The Senator’s office has an 85% favorability rating in our efforts helping Kansans.

Additionally, the Senator communicated with Kansans more than 225,000 times through the office’s robust mail program and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-launches-new-website-to-better-serve-kansans/" target="_blank">launched a new website</a>&nbsp;to better serve Kansans. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-launches-new-website-to-better-serve-kansans/" target="_blank">new website</a>&nbsp;features several easy-to-navigate icons for Kansans to choose from when seeking assistance from Senator Marshall’s office. As part of the assistance, Senator Marshall launched an email address in February to help Americans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-sen-marshall-urges-those-seeking-assistance-exiting-ukraine-to-email-evachelpmarshall-senate-gov/" target="_blank">seeking assistance</a>&nbsp;exiting Ukraine.

In September, Senator Marshall and Olathe Police Department Chief Mike Butaud joined forces to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-and-olathe-police-chief-butaud-join-forces-to-nominate-sro-clark-for-public-safety-officer-medal-of-valor/" target="_blank">nominate</a>&nbsp;Olathe East High School School Resource Officer Erik Clark for the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor. The nomination came after Officer Clark displayed heroic actions to protect students and teachers from an active shooter at Olathe East High School on March 4, 2022. Be sure to click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-and-olathe-police-chief-butaud-join-forces-to-nominate-sro-clark-for-public-safety-officer-medal-of-valor/" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to read Senator Marshall’s nomination letter.

Fighting to Put a Stop to Joe Biden’s COVID Mandates:

Senator Marshall not once, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshalls-resolution-to-end-covid-national-emergency-declaration-overwhelmingly-passes-senate/" target="_blank">twice</a>, was able to pass a Resolution to terminate the COVID-19 emergency declaration. The resolution was in response to the abuse of supersized executive emergency powers being deployed by the Biden administration to justify their student loan relief and out of control spending, among other things.

Senator Marshall’s resolution to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/passed-sen-marshall-resolution-to-block-vaccine-mandate-for-healthcare-workers/" target="_blank">overturn the CMS vaccine mandate</a>&nbsp;for health care providers passed the Senate in March. The resolution was in response to concerns from Kansan health care providers, especially those serving in skilled nursing facilities and rural hospitals, as it would greatly impact access to care.&nbsp;

Additionally, Senator Marshall helped secure a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/breaking-sen-marshall-secures-end-to-vaccine-mandate-for-troops-in-ndaa/" target="_blank">major win</a>&nbsp;as part of his longstanding effort to protect American servicemembers from Joe Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Thanks to steadfast advocacy by Senator Marshall during his first two years in the Senate, the 2023 NDAA – legislation critical to American military preparedness – included a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/breaking-sen-marshall-secures-end-to-vaccine-mandate-for-troops-in-ndaa/" target="_blank">provision</a>&nbsp;that halts the Department of Defense from forcing servicemembers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

In September, Senator Marshall was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-receives-lee-greenwood-patriot-award/" target="_blank">honored</a>&nbsp;as a 2022 Lee Greenwood Patriot Award recipient during a ceremony at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. The award recognizes leaders who support America’s veterans and military.

Fighting to Keep Kansans Safe and Secure:

Senator Marshall has been leading the fight in the Senate to protect our communities from the scourge of fentanyl. In September, he introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-scott-bill-designates-drug-cartels-as-foreign-terrorists/" target="_blank">Drug Cartel Terrorist Designation Act</a>, legislation to formally designate drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. As these cartels continue to invade our porous southern border with illicit guns and drugs that are killing hundreds of Americans each day, this designation is needed to ramp up efforts to combat them.

Senator Marshall also led the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-announces-support-for-halt-fentanyl-act/" target="_blank">HALT Fentanyl Act</a>, which would permanently give law enforcement the tools to help combat the fentanyl crisis by placing fentanyl-related substances as a class into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.

Most recently, he introduced the Cooper Davis Act, named after a young Kansas teen who lost his life from fentanyl poisoning. The legislation, which Senator Marshall worked with Cooper’s mom Libby Davis on, is cosponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-and-shaheen-bill-cracks-down-on-drug-dealers-targeting-americans-through-social-media/" target="_blank">Senator Jeanne Shaheen</a>&nbsp;(D-NH) and requires social media companies and other communication service providers to take on a more active role in working with federal agencies to combat the illegal sale and distribution of drugs on their platforms. Be sure to click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nWoQvL78b4&amp;t=6s" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch a highlight video of Senator Marshall and Libby’s efforts on the Cooper Davis Act.

Additionally, Senator Marshall led&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshall-to-take-kansas-sheriffs-to-southern-border-amid-title-42-expiration-and-fentanyl-crisis-in-kansas/" target="_blank">five Kansas sheriffs</a>&nbsp;to the Southern border amid the pending expiration of Title 42 and the growing fentanyl crisis that is wreaking havoc in Kansas and across the nation. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8jFNQ2hHzU" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below for a highlight video of their trip.

On the trip, Senator Marshall provided medical assistance to a migrant suffering from heat exhaustion. He would later go on to receive recognition from Shawnee Sheriff Brian Hill in acknowledgement of service above and beyond the call of duty for actions he took during the trip. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDMXyEog54Y" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch the dramatic video.

Senator Marshall introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-bill-allows-covid-money-to-be-used-to-harden-schools/" target="_blank">Safe Schools Act</a>, legislation to allow COVID relief dollars to be used by schools on physical security measures, such as locks, panic buttons, individual room security systems, video surveillance, and hiring and paying the salaries of armed school resource officers. The bill was endorsed by Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, ZeroEyes, the Door and Hardware Institute, the Security Industry Association, as well as Kansas Rep. Kristey Williams and Kansas Sen. Renee Erickson.

Fighting to Lower Kansas Energy Prices:

Senator Marshall introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/amid-surging-gas-prices-sen-marshall-offers-bill-to-lower-cost-of-fuel/" target="_blank">Gas Prices Relief Act</a>&nbsp;which gives producers some certainty by blocking any new regulation from taking effect for at least a year or until gas prices dropped. He also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/energy/sen-roger-marshall-vows-vote-no-manchins-inflationary-permitting-bill-horrible-america" target="_blank">fought off</a>&nbsp;numerous attempts at fake permitting reform, which would have federalized the citing of transmission lines allowing them to shift more costs to hardworking Kansans. And, he led the charge in calling for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-sotu-senator-marshall-gop-colleagues-drop-bill-to-ban-u-s-purchase-of-russian-oil/" target="_blank">complete ban</a>&nbsp;on imports of Russian oil and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4054?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22%22%5D%7D&amp;s=2&amp;r=24" target="_blank">introduced numerous pieces</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4463" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;to force the Biden Administration to fully enforce Russian energy sanctions.

Fighting for Small Businesses and to Lower Inflation:

Convenience stores, gas stations and other small businesses in Kansas are being taken advantage of by Visa and MasterCard on behalf of big banks in New York City at a time when they, and the communities they serve, are grappling with crippling inflation and staring down the barrel of a looming recession. In response, Senator Marshall partnered with Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) on the bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/marshall-durbin-introduce-bipartisan-credit-card-competition-act/" target="_blank">Credit Card Competition Act</a>&nbsp;to enhance competition and choice in the credit card network market, which is currently dominated by the Visa-Mastercard duopoly. The bill would direct the Federal Reserve to ensure that giant credit card-issuing banks offer a choice of at least two networks over which an electronic credit transaction may be processed. 1,700 companies and 200 trade associations announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/1700-companies-200-trade-associations-announce-support-for-sen-marshalls-credit-card-competition-act/" target="_blank">support</a>&nbsp;for the legislation. Be sure to click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/video/series/wsj-explains/why-using-your-credit-card-is-getting-more-expensive/07DC2C66-80E4-491A-A87F-6C653D089EDD?mod=hp_featst_pos4" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch the WSJ explain the issue of credit card swipe fees and what Senators Marshall and Durbin are doing about it.

Senator Marshall introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-coons-introduce-the-supporting-small-business-career-and-technical-education-act/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;with Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) that helps small businesses hire new employees and supports aspiring entrepreneurs. Specifically, the bill directs Small Business Development Centers and Women Business Centers to assist small businesses in hiring career and technical education program graduates. The bill also gives CTE graduates access to resources that are useful for starting a small business.

In October, after previously completing four minority business roundtables across the state, Senator Marshall&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-hosts-sba-administrator-guzman-in-kansas/" target="_blank">hosted</a>&nbsp;Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman in the Kansas City metro area for a series of small business visits. Following a roundtable discussion at El Centro with local business leaders, Senator Marshall and Administrator Guzman toured Mark One Electric and CJ Industries.

Fighting for Kansas Values and our Heroes:

Senator Marshall served as Ranking Member for a U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/obgyn-sen-marshall-stands-up-to-pro-abortion-fearmongering-during-hearing-on-abortion-laws/" target="_blank">hearing on abortion laws</a>&nbsp;following the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-sen-marshall-statement-on-end-of-roe-v-wade%ef%bf%bc/" target="_blank">U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;and returning the issue of abortion to state governments. Having delivered more than 5,000 babies as an OBGYN for over 25 years, Senator Marshall dispelled pro-abortion lies about treating ectopic pregnancies and miscarriage care. He also highlighted the life-affirming maternal and infant health care pregnancy resource centers provide at no cost for women experiencing unplanned pregnancies.

When it comes to protecting Kansans’ 2nd Amendment rights from the ATF’s proposed registry for firearms with stabilizing braces, Senator Marshall introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/new-marshall-bill-fights-biden-administration-attacks-on-2nd-amendment/" target="_blank">SHORT Act</a>. The bill removes the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of firearms such as Short Barreled Rifles, Short Barreled Shotguns, and Any Other Weapons.

Following passage of Joe Biden’s partisan Inflation Reduction Act, which gave the IRS nearly $80 billion in additional and unneeded funding to hire additional agents and auditors, Senator Marshall introduced legislation to ensure the IRS can’t harass law abiding citizens. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-bills-prevent-irs-overreach/" target="_blank">Preventing Frivolous Actions by IRS Agents Act</a>&nbsp;compensates American citizens who were incorrectly subjected to failed IRS audits or legal actions. For any civil or criminal proceedings in which a taxpayer wins in court, they would be compensated for attorney’s fees, court costs and other expenses related to the taxpayer’s defense.

As the son and brother of a veteran, the father of a soldier, and veteran himself, Senator Marshall hosted veterans’ town halls in multiple cities, and made in-person visits to VA facilities throughout Kansas. Senator Marshall proudly voted for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-supports-2023-national-defense-authorization-act/" target="_blank">2023 National Defense Authorization Act</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-supports-2023-national-defense-authorization-act/" target="_blank">PACT Act</a>, and he cosponsored legislation to expand education opportunities, improve access to mental and physical health care, and fund housing for veterans. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Supporting-Veterans-Aug-2022.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read more about Senator Marshall’s support for our veterans and military.

In March shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, Senator Marshall&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-moran-visit-with-fort-riley-troops-and-kansans-deployed-to-germany/" target="_blank">visited</a>&nbsp;Germany and Poland to encourage troops from Fort Riley.

Additionally, Senator Marshall helped kick start the statue&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-helps-lead-statue-unveiling-of-amelia-earhart-in-u-s-capitol/" target="_blank">unveiling</a>&nbsp;of Amelia Earhart during a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol. After waiting more than 20 years, Amelia Earhart’s statue replaced fellow Atchison native and former U.S. Senator John Ingalls as a part of the renowned collection of statues in the U.S. Capitol. She joined President Dwight D. Eisenhower, our 34th President and Abilene native, as one of Kansas’ tribute statues.

Fighting For Kansas Farmers and Ranchers:

Senator Marshall launched a video series titled: Ag Talk with Doc, in which he sits down with various leaders in agriculture for discussions on the latest news affecting America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. For the first episode, Senator Marshall sat down with former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture,&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/tEnFZGXakrc" target="_blank">Sonny Perdue</a>&nbsp;at the American Farm Bureau Convention. He has since released episodes with former&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bmlbqTnzSI" target="_blank">Senator Pat Roberts</a>, former Interior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-n_AqT6rhU" target="_blank">Secretary Ryan Zinke</a>, Farm Bureau&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGATGM-_K4U" target="_blank">President Zippy Duvall</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ag-talk-with-doc-episode-9-sen-marshall-and-sen-pat-roberts/" target="_blank">more</a>.

Senator Marshall’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshalls-ocean-shipping-reform-act-signed-into-law/" target="_blank">Ocean Shipping Reform Act</a>&nbsp;was signed was into law. The legislation improves efficiency in our broken supply chains by prohibiting ocean carriers from unreasonably refusing cargo space accommodations for U.S. exports and from discriminating against U.S. exporters.&nbsp;

Additionally the Senator led the fight to decrease fertilizer prices including the introduction of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/marshall-mann-lead-bicameral-legislation-to-combat-surge-in-fertilizer-prices/" target="_blank">Emergency Relief From Duties Act</a>, a bill aimed at creating emergency waivers for duties leveed on fertilizers by the U.S. International Trade Commission. He also introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-introduces-bill-to-sustain-the-long-term-viability-of-the-domestic-fertilizer-industry/" target="_blank">Fertilizer SUSTAIN Act</a>&nbsp;to strengthen our domestic fertilizer industry and ensure that American growers have access to the crop nutrients they need to grow the food that is relied upon by the United States and nations around the world.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall has also led the fight calling on the Administration to abandon its war on necessary crop chemicals including the introduction of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/new-sen-marshall-bill-aims-to-maintain-availability-of-vital-crop-protection-tools/" target="_blank">EPA Transparency for Agriculture Products Act</a>, a comprehensive bill to prevent the EPA from overregulating essential pesticides that the ag industry heavily depends upon.

In April, Senator Marshall hosted an event discussing the war in Ukraine and what it means for global food security. Senator Marshall was joined by Senator Joni Ernst (IA) as well as Ukrainian Civil Society leaders Dr. Hanna Hopko, Daria Kaleniuk, and Maria Berlinska. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZhFD5OYqpY" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below for a highlight video of the event.

Fighting for Better and Affordable Healthcare for Kansans:

In May, President Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshalls-access-to-baby-formula-act-signed-into-law/" target="_blank">signed into law</a>&nbsp;Senator Marshall’s bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve access to infant formula families who participate in the WIC program. Senator Marshall is one of the leading Members of Congress to hold the Biden Administration accountable having led letters on the issue and questioning the FDA Commissioner.

Fighting to get to the Bottom of the Origins of COVID-19:

Throughout 2022, Senator Marshall continued his investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic because Kansans deserve to know what happened so that future outbreaks can be better mitigated, detected, and managed. In an interview hosted by the Hudson Institute, a bipartisan think tank, Senator Marshall discussed his work on this issue extensively with David Asher, who led the State Department’s COVID-19 origins investigation for the Trump Administration. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zz7TUtIiL50" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch the interview.

Cornerstones of Senator Marshall’s investigation includes his leadership of Federal government policy reforms to U.S.-sponsored viral Gain-of-Function (GoF) research while pressing to hold federal public health officials accountable for the cover-ups of their contributions to this dangerous research with pandemic potential. Viral GoF research genetically manipulates a virus and to alter its transmissibility and infectiousness, which can cause the virus to be resistant to immune responses or vaccines.&nbsp;

In August&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-marshall-connects-dr-fauci-to-ecohealth-alliances-gain-of-function-research-projects-in-china-2/" target="_blank">during a U.S. Senate hearing</a>, Senator Marshall further raised the alarm on the dangers of viral GoF research projects, especially those conducted in China, He also highlighted Dr. Anthony Fauci’s efforts to offshore viral GoF research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to China through EcoHealth Alliance, a nonprofit organization that passed its grant awards to Chinese researchers, including those at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.&nbsp;Expert witnesses testified this viral GoF research technique provides no benefit to public health and instead can transform a virus into a bioweapon. You may click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgM9CrFr8g0" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the image below to watch Senator Marshall’s full remarks during the hearing.

Senator Marshall made repeated attempts to put a stop to the U.S. federal government’s involvement in GoF research. He sought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/democrats-block-sen-marshalls-bills-to-halt-risky-gain-of-function-research/" target="_blank">unanimous consent</a>&nbsp;on the Senator floor to pass his Viral Gain of Function Research Moratorium Act and SAFE Risky Research Act, two bills that would have limited GoF research sponsored by the American government. Both bills were blocked by Senate Democrats. Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/marshall-colleagues-call-on-biden-white-house-to-reinstate-government-wide-moratorium-on-gof-research/" target="_blank">in a letter to the White House on November 22</a>, Senator Marshall demanded that the federal government implement a government-wide ban on all ongoing and new viral GoF and Dual Use Research of Concern studies in the life sciences involving all enhanced pathogens of pandemic potential due to the current lack of research oversight, clear guidelines, and potential risks of outbreaks from laboratory accidents.

When the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) refused to cooperate with the Senator’s investigative records requests, Senator Marshall used a mechanism available to him in the Senate to hold White House nominations until USAID produced records and as a result, the Senator has been receiving documents directly relevant to the U.S. funding of risky research in China that could have led to the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;Based on evaluation of information obtained in the USAID records, numerous Senators joined Senator Marshall’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/USAID-Letter-re-EHA-suspension-9.14.2022.pdf" target="_blank">request</a>&nbsp;to USAID to suspend ongoing grant awards to EcoHealth Alliance, the nonprofit organization that also received NIH grants and failed to produce evidence of the risky bat coronavirus research they conducted in China that could have caused the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2022, Senator Marshall pressed Dr. Fauci for transparency in his financial income records when Dr. Fauci’s failed to disclose them despite requirements.&nbsp;As a result, Dr. Fauci produced previously&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Anthony-Fauci-Financial-Disclosures-for-2020-and-2019.pdf" target="_blank">unpublished documents</a>&nbsp;about his finances that revealed up to $1 million in royalties paid to him from a medical book publishing company in a potential financial conflict of interest with his public health leadership role. As a result of this discovery, Senator Marshall later introduced the Financial Accountability for Uniquely Compensated Individuals (FAUCI) Act, which requires the public access of financial disclosures on the official Office of Government Ethics (OGE) website for administration officials like Dr. Fauci. Senator Marshall’s oversight efforts continued when Dr. Fauci announced his retirement and the Senator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022-08-23-Senator-Marshall-Fauci-Records-Preservation-Letter-to-HHS.pdf" target="_blank">notified</a>&nbsp;the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services of its responsibility to maintain all documentation, including Dr. Fauci’s emails and other records.

Sen. Marshall fights to defend Kansas way of life in 2nd year

The story of Laundry Love began with T-Bone, a gentleman living in Ventura California. In one particular conversation, a question was asked of him: “T-Bone, how can we come alongside your life in a meaningful way?” His response was honest and practical. “If I had clean clothes, people would treat me like a human being.”

The mission of Laundry Love is to wash the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and individuals. Laundry Love exists to help prevent physical and emotional strain that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in our community.

Come down to Discount Laundry, 924 Jefferson Street 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on select days (last load in at 1:30).

To learn more about the program visit www.laundrylove.org or contact United Way of Central Kansas at 620-792-2403.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672778980061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The story of Laundry Love began with T-Bone, a gentleman living in Ventura California. In one particular conversation, a question was asked of him: “T-Bone, how can we come alongside your life in a meaningful way?” His response was honest and practical. “If I had clean clothes, people would treat me like a human being.”The mission of Laundry Love is to wash the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and individuals. Laundry Love exists to help prevent physical and emotional strain that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in our community.Come down to Discount Laundry, 924 Jefferson Street 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on select days (last load in at 1:30).To learn more about the program visit www.laundrylove.org or contact United Way of Central Kansas at 620-792-2403.

Free Laundry 2023 dates in Great Bend

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP) — A football player at Fort Hays State University in Kansas was shot and killed outside a bar in Oklahoma City on New Year's Day, police said.

Daniel Howard, 22, died and four other people were injured in the shooting at Sunset Patio Lounge early Sunday, Oklahoma City police said.

Several people were kicked out of the bar after a fight broke out. The shooting occurred when the argument continued in a nearby parking lot, police said.

Some of the injured were bystanders, according to the police news release. Their conditions were not available.

Howard played two years at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in spring of 2022. Howard, a defensive back, played in all 11 games last season, recording 53 tackles.

Officials at Fort Hays and Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M issued statements on social media expressing grief after Howard's death and support for his family and friends.

The investigation into the shooting is continuing, police said in a news release.

HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State University football team, athletic department, and campus community are mourning the loss of student-athlete Daniel Howard, who died early Sunday morning (Jan. 1) in his hometown of Oklahoma City. Howard was a Sociology major at FHSU and was 22 years old.

“On behalf of the entire Fort Hays State University community, I want to express our profound sorrow that Daniel Howard’s life was tragically cut short,” said Fort Hays State University President Dr. Tisa Mason. “Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Daniel’s family, teammates, and friends as they grieve this terrible loss.”

“We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family, Daniel Howard,” said head coach Chris Brown. “We are so grateful to have been a part of his life, and he will be missed greatly and remembered forever. Daniel was a&nbsp;tremendous teammate and a loving, caring, and supportive individual. He had a great personality and infectious smile. Daniel truly loved his Tiger football family.&nbsp;Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time.”

Daniel Howard came to Fort Hays State in the spring of 2022, a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M College. He made an immediate impact for the Tiger defense during the 2022 season, playing in all 11 games and making nine starts as a defensive back. He recorded 53 tackles, ranking third on the team, and recorded an interception and a pair of pass breakups. Howard attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M for three years and played two seasons, where he was a two-time all-conference performer.

A native of Oklahoma City, Daniel was a graduate of Millwood High School, where he was a member of two state championship football teams.

No further details have been released. A police investigation is ongoing.

Members of the university community who this tragedy has touched are encouraged to connect with our team of professionals in&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtPfWCGPOA9BzzP-2Fj1tHhiLArMLi8LVu8z33Pw-2BD5WD5KRq43azm-2B5oq6VyMVjiIeWg-3D-3DcdcQ_-2BCRF-2BJtV2-2F17QYmGOIw5uPGMV9jh81EI2Jy8QpRPJ2XzYwIZ5vwLyd5HN3Eo3-2F4P1Ap8fn0t39eC1GIEQ1Ow4jU8iZkhCNmQEuMIByI3oKcFq-2FNrFhOVB9x-2FlxArKZHxipMzsMz6HY99Yv9UoAbgxrdXXSm9nj0QqbGP1N-2Fbp4BKQLgUouRjgKAaPChs2Zr8cAUSjBFB-2BOl4VjRJpD8ttFIVaVrLPBDJ-2B-2BhShcGuwpKd6h3c5zPmNOBvQzBoKBg-2Bo56cpCf0MNjsbvcJ1AR7uSU8fcslcp0lbUDbMRfkbAJmLwV-2BXYo-2BsYZvcpoT0-2BMtTHNyo1cj2KxRDz3W-2FXXbSFeE4UlLMTzvroCIdA3l0MDXTv84ep-2B-2Fz-2Fu9xDpOkZMlNrR2NYYwhgX0NNuY9rBeYg-3D-3D" target="_blank">University Health and Wellness Services</a>. You can also contact the Health and Wellness Services team at 800.273.8255.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672768574845.jpeg" alt="Howard photo courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Howard photo courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP) — A football player at Fort Hays State University in Kansas was shot and killed outside a bar in Oklahoma City on New Year's Day, police said.Daniel Howard, 22, died and four other people were injured in the shooting at Sunset Patio Lounge early Sunday, Oklahoma City police said.Several people were kicked out of the bar after a fight broke out. The shooting occurred when the argument continued in a nearby parking lot, police said.Some of the injured were bystanders, according to the police news release. Their conditions were not available.Howard played two years at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in spring of 2022. Howard, a defensive back, played in all 11 games last season, recording 53 tackles.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tiger Family, We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family, Daniel Howard. We are so grateful to have been able to be a part of his life and he will be missed greatly. Please keep Daniel&#39;s family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/BqLfWP4NJK">pic.twitter.com/BqLfWP4NJK</a>&mdash; FHSU Football (@FHSUFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FHSUFootball/status/1610006504484048901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Officials at Fort Hays and Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M issued statements on social media expressing grief after Howard's death and support for his family and friends.The investigation into the shooting is continuing, police said in a news release.HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State University football team, athletic department, and campus community are mourning the loss of student-athlete Daniel Howard, who died early Sunday morning (Jan. 1) in his hometown of Oklahoma City. Howard was a Sociology major at FHSU and was 22 years old.“On behalf of the entire Fort Hays State University community, I want to express our profound sorrow that Daniel Howard’s life was tragically cut short,” said Fort Hays State University President Dr. Tisa Mason. “Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Daniel’s family, teammates, and friends as they grieve this terrible loss.”“We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family, Daniel Howard,” said head coach Chris Brown. “We are so grateful to have been a part of his life, and he will be missed greatly and remembered forever. Daniel was a&nbsp;tremendous teammate and a loving, caring, and supportive individual. He had a great personality and infectious smile. Daniel truly loved his Tiger football family.&nbsp;Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time.”Daniel Howard came to Fort Hays State in the spring of 2022, a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M College. He made an immediate impact for the Tiger defense during the 2022 season, playing in all 11 games and making nine starts as a defensive back. He recorded 53 tackles, ranking third on the team, and recorded an interception and a pair of pass breakups. Howard attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M for three years and played two seasons, where he was a two-time all-conference performer.A native of Oklahoma City, Daniel was a graduate of Millwood High School, where he was a member of two state championship football teams.No further details have been released. A police investigation is ongoing.Members of the university community who this tragedy has touched are encouraged to connect with our team of professionals in&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtPfWCGPOA9BzzP-2Fj1tHhiLArMLi8LVu8z33Pw-2BD5WD5KRq43azm-2B5oq6VyMVjiIeWg-3D-3DcdcQ_-2BCRF-2BJtV2-2F17QYmGOIw5uPGMV9jh81EI2Jy8QpRPJ2XzYwIZ5vwLyd5HN3Eo3-2F4P1Ap8fn0t39eC1GIEQ1Ow4jU8iZkhCNmQEuMIByI3oKcFq-2FNrFhOVB9x-2FlxArKZHxipMzsMz6HY99Yv9UoAbgxrdXXSm9nj0QqbGP1N-2Fbp4BKQLgUouRjgKAaPChs2Zr8cAUSjBFB-2BOl4VjRJpD8ttFIVaVrLPBDJ-2B-2BhShcGuwpKd6h3c5zPmNOBvQzBoKBg-2Bo56cpCf0MNjsbvcJ1AR7uSU8fcslcp0lbUDbMRfkbAJmLwV-2BXYo-2BsYZvcpoT0-2BMtTHNyo1cj2KxRDz3W-2FXXbSFeE4UlLMTzvroCIdA3l0MDXTv84ep-2B-2Fz-2Fu9xDpOkZMlNrR2NYYwhgX0NNuY9rBeYg-3D-3D" target="_blank">University Health and Wellness Services</a>. You can also contact the Health and Wellness Services team at 800.273.8255.

Police: FHSU football player shot and killed in Oklahoma 

Kansas State University will host a four-part series on land leasing strategies at 34 locations in Kansas beginning Jan. 18.

The series is titled, The Power of Negotiation and Communication: Land Leasing Strategies for Midwestern Agriculture Women, though K-State Research and Extension farm economist Robin Reid says the sessions are open to all participants.

“In Kansas, agricultural land covers more than 49 million acres,” Reid said. “Of that land, 55% is farmed or grazed with a lease agreement. Many farms and ranches rely on leased ground to have an adequate amount of land to maintain a viable farming operation.”

Reid said the program – held each week through Feb. 8 on Wednesday evenings – will teach principles of managing land leases as a tenant and landlord. “The goal is for participants to acquire skills they can apply directly their own agricultural lease situation,” she said.

· An overview of the agricultural economy, and how it affects land values and lease rates.

· Advantages and disadvantages of various types of leases.

· Why a lease agreement should be in writing and what it should include.

· Best practices of negotiating and communicating about a lease.

Reid said women are encouraged to attend because they have routinely become lease managers due to family circumstances.

“Women often become landowners through inheritance of a family estate or because they outlive their spouse,” she said. “Suddenly becoming a landowner and working with a farm tenant can be particularly challenging if you do not have knowledge of current farming practices, lease laws and going market rates.”

Reid said the program also will be helpful to farmers and ranchers who sometimes find themselves working with multiple landowners that, she notes, “are becoming more geographically and generationally removed from agriculture.”

More information about the series is available online at www.agmanager.info/events (look for the link to The Power of Negotiation and Communication.) An online option is available for those not able to make it to one of the 34 sites in Kansas. The program will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Central time) on four consecutive Wednesdays.

Information also is available at our local offices.3007 10th Street in Great Bend or 601 Main Street in Hays. Contact Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or Stacy Campbell at 785-628-9430 for help registering.

The program is made possible by a grant from the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State University will host a four-part series on land leasing strategies at 34 locations in Kansas beginning Jan. 18.The series is titled, The Power of Negotiation and Communication: Land Leasing Strategies for Midwestern Agriculture Women, though K-State Research and Extension farm economist Robin Reid says the sessions are open to all participants.“In Kansas, agricultural land covers more than 49 million acres,” Reid said. “Of that land, 55% is farmed or grazed with a lease agreement. Many farms and ranches rely on leased ground to have an adequate amount of land to maintain a viable farming operation.”Reid said the program – held each week through Feb. 8 on Wednesday evenings – will teach principles of managing land leases as a tenant and landlord. “The goal is for participants to acquire skills they can apply directly their own agricultural lease situation,” she said.Topics that will be covered include:· An overview of the agricultural economy, and how it affects land values and lease rates.· Advantages and disadvantages of various types of leases.· Kansas lease law and fence law.· Why a lease agreement should be in writing and what it should include.· Best practices of negotiating and communicating about a lease.· Conservation programs and practices.Reid said women are encouraged to attend because they have routinely become lease managers due to family circumstances.“Women often become landowners through inheritance of a family estate or because they outlive their spouse,” she said. “Suddenly becoming a landowner and working with a farm tenant can be particularly challenging if you do not have knowledge of current farming practices, lease laws and going market rates.”Reid said the program also will be helpful to farmers and ranchers who sometimes find themselves working with multiple landowners that, she notes, “are becoming more geographically and generationally removed from agriculture.”More information about the series is available online at www.agmanager.info/events (look for the link to The Power of Negotiation and Communication.) An online option is available for those not able to make it to one of the 34 sites in Kansas. The program will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Central time) on four consecutive Wednesdays.Information also is available at our local offices.3007 10th Street in Great Bend or 601 Main Street in Hays. Contact Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or Stacy Campbell at 785-628-9430 for help registering.The program is made possible by a grant from the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Women in Farm Program

Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;

Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;

For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671029274787.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>.

News from the Oil Patch: Keystone restarts pipeline

12/30 BOOKED: Marcus Bryant on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dylan Jones on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

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

BOOKED: Richard Comstock on KDOC warrant for Parole Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Omar Dominguez-Campos on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Zackery Jacobs on two Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.

12/31 BOOKED: Jonathan Panning on Barton County District Court case for Theft by Deception, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jonnathen Harrington, Jr., on hold for Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

BOOKED: Anthony Reed, Jr., on hold for Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

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

RELEASED: Marcus Bryant on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

1/1/23 BOOKED: Idali Ruiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Idali Ruiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Dylan Jones on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

RELEASED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/30 BOOKED: Marcus Bryant on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Dylan Jones on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Nastasia Robinson on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Richard Comstock on KDOC warrant for Parole Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Omar Dominguez-Campos on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: Zackery Jacobs on two Barton County District Court warrants, after time served.12/31 BOOKED: Jonathan Panning on Barton County District Court case for Theft by Deception, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jonnathen Harrington, Jr., on hold for Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.BOOKED: Anthony Reed, Jr., on hold for Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.BOOKED: Rakel Ryan on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Marcus Bryant on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.1/1/23 BOOKED: Idali Ruiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Idali Ruiz on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Dylan Jones on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.RELEASED: Joshua Smith on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (12/30 - 1/1)

Final exams wrapped up in early December at Barton Community College,
and the last official day of the fall semester was Dec. 8. From
the student’s perspective, the Great Bend campus shuts down, including the
cafeteria. For those students competing in winter athletics, like basketball,
they return to campus before the rest of the student population to begin
practices. Fall sports deal with a similar situation when athletes arrive to
school in the summer before classes start. 
Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs said coaches are tasked with figuring out
how to feed their players for two weeks while the cafeteria is closed. "You're trying to figure out how to feed your kids 28 times," said Rolfs. "You can't go to McDonalds and feed college athletes 28 times. That's just not good for them dietary wise. You have the financial challenge, scheduling challenge and feeding them healthy challenge."

The cafeteria does open periodically for lunch during the summer while certain academic sessions are ongoing. Rolfs noted the college has studied leaving the cafeteria open during the breaks to feed the student athletes, but the cost does not make the effort worth it. 
While each athletic program has budgeted funds, Rolfs said coaches lean heavily
on the community to help provide meals for their athletes. 
"We have a number of churches, civic organizations and businesses that help feed the kids," said Rolfs. "We have a number of folks here on campus who assist and our Booster Club assists heavily. 
The Cougar Booster Club Board annually provides a meal for all the student
athletes on campus after Christmas. Rolfs said there are college staff members
that also assist in cooking food for the players. 
The cafeteria reopens on campus Jan. 7 and spring semester
classes begin Jan. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672427899141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFinal exams wrapped up in early December at Barton Community College,
and the last official day of the fall semester was Dec. 8. From
the student’s perspective, the Great Bend campus shuts down, including the
cafeteria. For those students competing in winter athletics, like basketball,
they return to campus before the rest of the student population to begin
practices. Fall sports deal with a similar situation when athletes arrive to
school in the summer before classes start. 
Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs said coaches are tasked with figuring out
how to feed their players for two weeks while the cafeteria is closed. "You're trying to figure out how to feed your kids 28 times," said Rolfs. "You can't go to McDonalds and feed college athletes 28 times. That's just not good for them dietary wise. You have the financial challenge, scheduling challenge and feeding them healthy challenge."The cafeteria does open periodically for lunch during the summer while certain academic sessions are ongoing. Rolfs noted the college has studied leaving the cafeteria open during the breaks to feed the student athletes, but the cost does not make the effort worth it. 
While each athletic program has budgeted funds, Rolfs said coaches lean heavily
on the community to help provide meals for their athletes. 
"We have a number of churches, civic organizations and businesses that help feed the kids," said Rolfs. "We have a number of folks here on campus who assist and our Booster Club assists heavily. 
The Cougar Booster Club Board annually provides a meal for all the student
athletes on campus after Christmas. Rolfs said there are college staff members
that also assist in cooking food for the players. 
The cafeteria reopens on campus Jan. 7 and spring semester
classes begin Jan. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cafeteria is closed, but mouths to feed on Barton’s campus

Today Patchy fog before 7 a.m. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 38. Breezy, with a northwest wind 13 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. West-northwest wind 10 to 13 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22. West-northwest wind around 10 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 46. West-northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 23.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 40.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 45.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Patchy fog before 7 a.m. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 38. Breezy, with a northwest wind 13 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. West-northwest wind 10 to 13 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 42. Northwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22. West-northwest wind around 10 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 46. West-northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 23.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 40.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 19.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 45.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Monday Sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's Weather

The Barton County Conservation District is working with the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation to provide scholarships for landowners and operators to attend for the first time Soil Health U and No-Till on the Plains events in January 2023.  

No-Till on the Plains scholarships are for the regular conference on January 24-25, 2023 at the Wichita Marriott in Wichita. It does not include the Jan. 23 bonus sessions ($305 value).

Soil Health U is being held Jan. 18-19 at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina ($135 value).

The scholarships are for registration fees only. There are a limited number available.  Contact the Barton County Conservation District, 620-792-3346 ext. 303 for assistance.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620306273203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Conservation District is working with the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation to provide scholarships for landowners and operators to attend for the first time Soil Health U and No-Till on the Plains events in January 2023. No-Till on the Plains scholarships are for the regular conference on January 24-25, 2023 at the Wichita Marriott in Wichita. It does not include the Jan. 23 bonus sessions ($305 value).Soil Health U is being held Jan. 18-19 at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina ($135 value).The scholarships are for registration fees only. There are a limited number available. Contact the Barton County Conservation District, 620-792-3346 ext. 303 for assistance.

Barton Co. Conservation: Scholarships available for soil health conference

Great Bend City Council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3 - 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers

The council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.

C. Recognition of Visitors and Announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Oath of Office &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Elected councilmembers will be sworn in by City Clerk Shawna Schafer.

&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Elect President of the Council &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The council president is a serving council member elected by the members of the city council to serve in the temporary absence of the mayor.

&nbsp; &nbsp;3. Councilmember Reports

&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Interim Administrator's Update

&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Public Hearing Request for Unsafe Structure at 214 Locust Street &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; During an inspection, the structure at 214 Locust Street was deemed to be in an unsafe condition. A motion will be presented to set a public hearing.

&nbsp; &nbsp;7. 2022 Nonbudgeted Transfers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the 2022 nonbudgeted transfers in the amount of $1,483,676.47.

&nbsp; &nbsp;8. Fee Schedule Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; At the previous council meeting, proposed updates to the Master Fee Schedule were presented. The governing body asked the team to go back to the drawing board for the Events Center fees. CVB Director Christina Hayes will report.

&nbsp; &nbsp;9. Levee Tractor 2023 Massey Ferguson &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the purchase a 135hp Massey Ferguson Tractor from Lang Diesel Inc. for $130,347. The tractor is for the flood control levee mowing.

&nbsp; &nbsp;10. Crack Seal Change Order &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Circle C Pavers stated that due to the crack sizes more material is needed than originally estimated for the crack seal project. There are approximately 70 blocks left to complete. The change order is for $40,000.

&nbsp; &nbsp;11. Executive Session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to seek legal advice concerning contract matters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657285932152.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3 - 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council ChambersThe council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.AgendaOPENING: Pledge of AllegianceA. Consent AgendaB. Old BusinessC. Recognition of Visitors and Announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.D. New Business&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Oath of Office &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Elected councilmembers will be sworn in by City Clerk Shawna Schafer.&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Elect President of the Council &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The council president is a serving council member elected by the members of the city council to serve in the temporary absence of the mayor.&nbsp; &nbsp;3. Councilmember Reports&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Interim Administrator's Update&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Abatements&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Public Hearing Request for Unsafe Structure at 214 Locust Street &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; During an inspection, the structure at 214 Locust Street was deemed to be in an unsafe condition. A motion will be presented to set a public hearing.&nbsp; &nbsp;7. 2022 Nonbudgeted Transfers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the 2022 nonbudgeted transfers in the amount of $1,483,676.47.&nbsp; &nbsp;8. Fee Schedule Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; At the previous council meeting, proposed updates to the Master Fee Schedule were presented. The governing body asked the team to go back to the drawing board for the Events Center fees. CVB Director Christina Hayes will report.&nbsp; &nbsp;9. Levee Tractor 2023 Massey Ferguson &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the purchase a 135hp Massey Ferguson Tractor from Lang Diesel Inc. for $130,347. The tractor is for the flood control levee mowing.&nbsp; &nbsp;10. Crack Seal Change Order &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Circle C Pavers stated that due to the crack sizes more material is needed than originally estimated for the crack seal project. There are approximately 70 blocks left to complete. The change order is for $40,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;11. Executive Session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to seek legal advice concerning contract matters.ADJOURNMENT

Great Bend City Council meeting agenda (1/3)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

When four Hoisington Veterinarian Hospital employees began LADA Paws Rescue in 2021, they might have had an idea the organization would live up to its name helping a "lotta" furry friends. Just before Christmas, with extreme cold weather moving in, LADA went on another rescue mission for two dogs that had been dumped near Lyons. Short on space, LADA Founder Amber Obermann still made the decision to rescue the dogs.  

"After we got the picture of what they looked like, we knew they probably were not going to make it through the cold snap because they were literally living in a culvert," Obermann said. "They had no protection besides the culvert around them. They were skin and bones."

With no facilities available in Rice County, Obermann teamed up with Coach K9 Training Academy's Brooke Steinert to capture one dog and live trap the other. The dogs were fully vetted and will be heading to foster homes. In a nutshell, the case defines exactly what LADA does.

Amber and Arica Obermann, LADA President and Vice President, Hoisington Veterinarian Lindsey Reif, and Treasurer Desirae Brandenburg founded LADA Paws Rescue to help rehome dogs that came to the facility as part of Hoisington's stray dog policy.

"Then it just kind of snowballed," Arica said. "There are a lot of dogs that needed help from all over. We bring in dogs from Missouri, Oklahoma, and more rural areas that just don't have the resources to find animals homes. Instead of euthanizing and going that route, we're able to vet them fully and find them homes."

LADA adopted out nearly 300 dogs and cats this year, and usually kennels between 70 and 80 animals at the Hoisington Veterinary Hospital at any given time. The 501(c)(3) non-profit operates within the walls of the hospital but is its own entity, working entirely off of donations. LADA is limited by space, but has seen an uptick in guests in recent years.

"We really saw a huge increase after people started going back to work from COVID," said Arica. "There were a lot of people adopting during COVID. They were home, they had the time, and then they went back to work and didn't have the time anymore. This is nationwide. There was a huge influx of animals that needed homes."

LADA differs from organizations like Golden Belt Humane Society in that it is funded entirely by donations, and it is not bound by contracts with city and county agencies to take in all strays or owner surrenders. Space is often the deciding factor. 

"When we make a commitment to another facility in southeast or southwestern Kansas, we have to hold to that commitment," Amber said. "If we have five dogs coming from that, if we don't the kennel space, we can't take in three more dogs from an owner surrender from somebody who doesn't want their pets anymore."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672599487703.jpeg" alt="The four founding members of LADA Paws Rescue: Amber Obermann, Arica Obermann, Lindsey Reif, and Desirae Brandenburg." />
 <figcaption>The four founding members of LADA Paws Rescue: Amber Obermann, Arica Obermann, Lindsey Reif, and Desirae Brandenburg.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWhen four Hoisington Veterinarian Hospital employees began LADA Paws Rescue in 2021, they might have had an idea the organization would live up to its name helping a "lotta" furry friends. Just before Christmas, with extreme cold weather moving in, LADA went on another rescue mission for two dogs that had been dumped near Lyons. Short on space, LADA Founder Amber Obermann still made the decision to rescue the dogs. "After we got the picture of what they looked like, we knew they probably were not going to make it through the cold snap because they were literally living in a culvert," Obermann said. "They had no protection besides the culvert around them. They were skin and bones."With no facilities available in Rice County, Obermann teamed up with Coach K9 Training Academy's Brooke Steinert to capture one dog and live trap the other. The dogs were fully vetted and will be heading to foster homes. In a nutshell, the case defines exactly what LADA does.Amber and Arica Obermann, LADA President and Vice President, Hoisington Veterinarian Lindsey Reif, and Treasurer Desirae Brandenburg founded LADA Paws Rescue to help rehome dogs that came to the facility as part of Hoisington's stray dog policy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672327329550.jpeg" alt="Brooke Steinert with one of the two dogs rescued near Lyons just before Christmas." />
 <figcaption>Brooke Steinert with one of the two dogs rescued near Lyons just before Christmas.</figcaption>
 </figure>"Then it just kind of snowballed," Arica said. "There are a lot of dogs that needed help from all over. We bring in dogs from Missouri, Oklahoma, and more rural areas that just don't have the resources to find animals homes. Instead of euthanizing and going that route, we're able to vet them fully and find them homes."LADA adopted out nearly 300 dogs and cats this year, and usually kennels between 70 and 80 animals at the Hoisington Veterinary Hospital at any given time. The 501(c)(3) non-profit operates within the walls of the hospital but is its own entity, working entirely off of donations. LADA is limited by space, but has seen an uptick in guests in recent years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672599677044.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We really saw a huge increase after people started going back to work from COVID," said Arica. "There were a lot of people adopting during COVID. They were home, they had the time, and then they went back to work and didn't have the time anymore. This is nationwide. There was a huge influx of animals that needed homes."LADA differs from organizations like Golden Belt Humane Society in that it is funded entirely by donations, and it is not bound by contracts with city and county agencies to take in all strays or owner surrenders. Space is often the deciding factor. "When we make a commitment to another facility in southeast or southwestern Kansas, we have to hold to that commitment," Amber said. "If we have five dogs coming from that, if we don't the kennel space, we can't take in three more dogs from an owner surrender from somebody who doesn't want their pets anymore."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672600254774.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LADA is also different in that some animals become long-term visitors. While finding foster homes is the preferred method, LADA will not euthanize an animal just to make space for another."We only euthanize in extreme medical or behavioral situations," said Amber. "We do not euthanize for space, or if a dog has sat here for two months, where a lot of other places do. That's essentially why we take dogs from other places around Kansas, because they have a time limit whereas our animals do not."All animals coming into the facility are fully vetted, which includes spaying or neutering, vaccination, and microchipping. Preventative treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworm are also administered. While LADA takes in mostly dogs and cats, staff has also rescued smaller furry pets."If we had more funding and supplies, we could take more, but we have done in the past many guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, and things like that," Amber said. "We don't do anything exotic, like reptiles, because we don't have a place for them to go."Because LADA operates by donation, gifts and supplies are always welcome. Send checks or make cash donations at 3 NW 90 Road just south of Hoisington. Send money digitally with PayPal by <a href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/LadaPawsRescue?fbclid=IwAR2kpSgtygKRIV_ifm8iFMGW7Kyo8zV05GUp9ZRp42UQEyxrHwBujpT0zfo">CLICKING HERE</a>&nbsp;or with Venmo by <a href="http://www.venmo.com/u/ladapawsrescue">CLICKING HERE.</a>&nbsp;LADA's adoptable animals can be found on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LADAPawsRescue">FACEBOOK PAGE</a>&nbsp;or on <a href="https://www.petfinder.com/">PETFINDER.COM</a>.&nbsp;

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