Fort Hays State University is looking for volunteers to participate in the university’s annual toy-building event.

The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.

The Department of Applied Technology is asking Santa’s helpers of all ages to come and participate in the year’s TUFT Day. All are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Since 1990, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive gifts for the holidays. Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.

Students in Materials, Processes, and Production class – taught by Associate Professor Zach Pixler – produced several designs for the toy. Pixler and Mr. Kim Stewart, department chair, then chose the design. The winning design for this year is a space shuttle.

Like all the toys made for this event over the years, this year’s toy will be hand-crafted entirely of wood. Wilson’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.

“This event is an opportunity for our students to give back to the Hays community, which does so much to support our program,” Pixler said. “Our students get the opportunity to practice manufacturing principles while providing a custom, hand-produced toy for children in the Hays community.”

The many hours of planning and pre-production put in by the FHSU students will allow volunteers to complete more than&nbsp; 200 toys in one morning.

“It is very rewarding for our students to see their sketches and ideas come to life,” Pixler added. “So much work goes into preparing the production run, and it is very satisfying to see the end result of hundreds of toys getting boxed up and sent to kids in our community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669042836032.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University is looking for volunteers to participate in the university’s annual toy-building event.The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.The Department of Applied Technology is asking Santa’s helpers of all ages to come and participate in the year’s TUFT Day. All are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.Since 1990, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive gifts for the holidays. Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.Students in Materials, Processes, and Production class – taught by Associate Professor Zach Pixler – produced several designs for the toy. Pixler and Mr. Kim Stewart, department chair, then chose the design. The winning design for this year is a space shuttle.Like all the toys made for this event over the years, this year’s toy will be hand-crafted entirely of wood. Wilson’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.“This event is an opportunity for our students to give back to the Hays community, which does so much to support our program,” Pixler said. “Our students get the opportunity to practice manufacturing principles while providing a custom, hand-produced toy for children in the Hays community.”The many hours of planning and pre-production put in by the FHSU students will allow volunteers to complete more than&nbsp; 200 toys in one morning.“It is very rewarding for our students to see their sketches and ideas come to life,” Pixler added. “So much work goes into preparing the production run, and it is very satisfying to see the end result of hundreds of toys getting boxed up and sent to kids in our community.”

Annual toy-building event at FHSU set for Dec. 3

The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the 2022 Ellis County Fair that won awards. Esther Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe, Layered Reese’s Cake. Mya Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club, won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake.

Cake Ingredients 2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes 1 cup butter (2 sticks) 2 cups water 8 whole eggs Frosting and Topping Ingredients 2 cups butter (room temperature) 6 cups powdered sugar 4-8 Tbsp. whipping cream 1 ½ cups peanut butter 1 tsp vanilla Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for topping

Instructions · Preheat oven to 350 degrees. · Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. · Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. · Let cakes cool and remove from pans. · For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. · To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. · Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!

Cake Ingredients 1 box yellow cake mix ½ cup butter 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 cup fresh orange juice ¼ cup granulated sugar 4 large eggs Glaze Ingredients 1 cup confectioner’s sugar 1 tsp fresh grated orange zest 3 Tbsp fresh orange juice

· Preheat oven to 350 degrees · Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. Shake out the excess flour. · Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. · Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. Allow to cool another 30 minutes. · Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. · Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.

<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>The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the 2022 Ellis County Fair that won awards. Esther Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe, Layered Reese’s Cake. Mya Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club, won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake.Layered Reese’s CakeCake Ingredients 2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes 1 cup butter (2 sticks) 2 cups water 8 whole eggs Frosting and Topping Ingredients 2 cups butter (room temperature) 6 cups powdered sugar 4-8 Tbsp. whipping cream 1 ½ cups peanut butter 1 tsp vanilla Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for toppingInstructions · Preheat oven to 350 degrees. · Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. · Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. · Let cakes cool and remove from pans. · For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. · To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. · Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!Fresh Orange CakeCake Ingredients 1 box yellow cake mix ½ cup butter 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 cup fresh orange juice ¼ cup granulated sugar 4 large eggs Glaze Ingredients 1 cup confectioner’s sugar 1 tsp fresh grated orange zest 3 Tbsp fresh orange juiceInstructions· Preheat oven to 350 degrees · Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. Shake out the excess flour. · Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. · Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. Allow to cool another 30 minutes. · Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. · Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.

KOERNER: Award winning fair recipes

On November 19, 2022, Great Bend Economic Development launches a new competition for entrepreneurs to open/start a business in Barton County. New inventions/businesses are encouraged to apply as well as startups. This competition exists to empower, support, and cultivate entrepreneurs. Here in Barton County, we strive to champion creativity and innovative thinking and complement a project or idea with the tools, resources, and investment necessary to see it thrive. We aim for this competition to be the first of many efforts to continue that mission in a positive and impactful way.

Those interested in competing will have the opportunity for exposure of their business, assistance from local business professionals, and three businesses are walking away with substantial prize money. With an emphasis on bringing business to Barton County, the Ignite committee is partnering with NetworkKansas and the Small Business Development Center. NetworkKansas has facilitated the use of Venture Dash as the contestant portal. Venture Dash allows contestants to submit materials and track their progress. In addition to weighing in on the competition, both NetworkKansas and the Small Business Development Center connect contestants to mentors and assistance with their business plan.&nbsp;

IGNITE Rural Business is launching Friday in celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week. This week the world is celebrating the entrepreneurship spirit with events like the IGNITE Rural Business competition and a push for entrepreneurial ecosystems. For more information about Global Entrepreneurship Week visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.genglobal.org/" target="_blank">www.genglobal.org</a>. If you are looking for local inspiration, GBED has interviewed some of Barton County’s entrepreneurs and posted those videos on the Great Bend Economic Development YouTube Channel, as well as @GBEDinc on TikTok.

In round one, all competitors submit the necessary materials through the Venture Dash platform. The link to the portal is on the GBED website. In round two, the competition pool is narrowed. Businesses will be selected to engage in a one-on-one meeting with a business planning professional. To have viable businesses in the next round, each contestant will be paired with a local business mentor in a category of the contestant's desire. Contestants will have a final Q&amp;A with the IGNITE Team before the final five contestants are chosen for the live IGNITE Finale event in October 2023.

A few extra takeaways for those interested in entering the competition include startups (Startups are considered businesses less than 5 years old and with 10 or fewer employees) and all applicants must be 18 years and older. The application deadline is June 30th, 2023. Rules, eligibility requirements, guidelines, and applications are live and available on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/IGNITE" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com/IGNITE</a>.&nbsp;

The live IGNITE Rural Business competition finale (on October 5th, 2023) will have participants pitching to our Jury in front of a live audience at the Crest Theater in Great Bend, then our Jury will conduct a Q&amp;A session following every pitch. Composed of experts from the private and/or public sectors with relevant business experience, the jury will base their decisions on innovation, creativity, long-term business strategy, and viability. The winner of the Grand Finale will win $50,000! Second place is awarded $30,000, and third place gets $10,000. Those following along the journey of the IGNITE Rural Business competition will vote online for the People’s Choice Award and award a business with $5,000.

If you like more information about being a sponsor of the live event or becoming a business mentor, please reach out to GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:marketing@gbedinc.com" target="_blank">marketing@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-796-2407.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669042239159.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On November 19, 2022, Great Bend Economic Development launches a new competition for entrepreneurs to open/start a business in Barton County. New inventions/businesses are encouraged to apply as well as startups. This competition exists to empower, support, and cultivate entrepreneurs. Here in Barton County, we strive to champion creativity and innovative thinking and complement a project or idea with the tools, resources, and investment necessary to see it thrive. We aim for this competition to be the first of many efforts to continue that mission in a positive and impactful way.Those interested in competing will have the opportunity for exposure of their business, assistance from local business professionals, and three businesses are walking away with substantial prize money. With an emphasis on bringing business to Barton County, the Ignite committee is partnering with NetworkKansas and the Small Business Development Center. NetworkKansas has facilitated the use of Venture Dash as the contestant portal. Venture Dash allows contestants to submit materials and track their progress. In addition to weighing in on the competition, both NetworkKansas and the Small Business Development Center connect contestants to mentors and assistance with their business plan.&nbsp;IGNITE Rural Business is launching Friday in celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week. This week the world is celebrating the entrepreneurship spirit with events like the IGNITE Rural Business competition and a push for entrepreneurial ecosystems. For more information about Global Entrepreneurship Week visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.genglobal.org/" target="_blank">www.genglobal.org</a>. If you are looking for local inspiration, GBED has interviewed some of Barton County’s entrepreneurs and posted those videos on the Great Bend Economic Development YouTube Channel, as well as @GBEDinc on TikTok.The IGNITE competitionIn round one, all competitors submit the necessary materials through the Venture Dash platform. The link to the portal is on the GBED website. In round two, the competition pool is narrowed. Businesses will be selected to engage in a one-on-one meeting with a business planning professional. To have viable businesses in the next round, each contestant will be paired with a local business mentor in a category of the contestant's desire. Contestants will have a final Q&amp;A with the IGNITE Team before the final five contestants are chosen for the live IGNITE Finale event in October 2023.A few extra takeaways for those interested in entering the competition include startups (Startups are considered businesses less than 5 years old and with 10 or fewer employees) and all applicants must be 18 years and older. The application deadline is June 30th, 2023. Rules, eligibility requirements, guidelines, and applications are live and available on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gbedinc.com/IGNITE" target="_blank">www.gbedinc.com/IGNITE</a>.&nbsp;The live IGNITE Rural Business competition finale (on October 5th, 2023) will have participants pitching to our Jury in front of a live audience at the Crest Theater in Great Bend, then our Jury will conduct a Q&amp;A session following every pitch. Composed of experts from the private and/or public sectors with relevant business experience, the jury will base their decisions on innovation, creativity, long-term business strategy, and viability. The winner of the Grand Finale will win $50,000! Second place is awarded $30,000, and third place gets $10,000. Those following along the journey of the IGNITE Rural Business competition will vote online for the People’s Choice Award and award a business with $5,000.How to participateIf you like more information about being a sponsor of the live event or becoming a business mentor, please reach out to GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:marketing@gbedinc.com" target="_blank">marketing@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-796-2407.&nbsp;

Great Bend Economic Development launches entrepreneurship competition

The Kansas International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) Association is honored by a generous contribution from the Don Goodfellow family of Lyons in honor of Eula Mae Goodfellow that showcases their continued commitment to helping youth explore and learn about the world around them. Eula Mae was a beloved member of the IFYE family and a shining example of how international travel can be life changing. The Goodfellow family gift was the catalyst for the Kansas IFYE Association to partner with the Kansas 4-H Foundation to create a $25,000 endowed scholarship to support Kansas youth interested in international travel through 4-H programs for many years to come.

It was 1955 - Eula Mae Murrey’s junior year at McPherson College when she made plans to be a part of the Kansas IFYE (formerly known as International Farm Youth Exchange) program to Belgium. Two weeks before she left her McPherson County home to go on this trip, Don Goodfellow proposed marriage to her - as he was also leaving for one year with the International Voluntary Service (IVS) program in Iraq. Eula Mae and Don said a hard goodbye at the train station in Salina when he left for orientation in Washington, DC. Then a few days later, Eula Mae left for her IFYE experience. You can imagine her surprise when Don met her at the Washington, D.C. train station as she was arriving there for her orientation, and found out that his departure to Iraq had been delayed. These moments set into motion a lifelong commitment to each other AND travel; two things that they both thoroughly enjoyed.

As an IFYE, Eula Mae stayed with four different farm families while in Belgium. Two families spoke French, and two spoke Flemish. Since she took French in college, she was able to communicate well, and thankfully she was a fast learner, as she picked up enough Flemish language to manage.

One of her host families had milk cows, so she enjoyed bottle feeding the calves and helping the host mother make butter and cheese. According to the letters she sent to Don in Iraq, she never complained about her harsh living conditions, and always had something positive to say.

Eula Mae returned to Kansas in late 1955 and finished her senior year in one semester at McPherson College prior to Don returning home. They were married May 17, 1956, and spent one year in Ohio where Don was the farm manager for Heifer International, Inc. The opportunity arose that they could ride a freightliner boat as a seagoing cowboy traveling to Germany with the heifers to be distributed for the Heifer Project. They purchased a Volkswagen car in the USA, but picked it up from the factory in Germany, and put 8,000 miles on it as they toured all over Europe and visited all of Eula Mae’s host

families in Belgium. After their trip, they loaded the car on the freightliner and shipped it to the states for their return to Kansas, where they drove it until their family grew out of it.

Eula Mae and Don through the years stayed in contact with someone from each of her host families, since her memorable and life changing IFYE experience in 1955. In fact, four of the grandchildren from her host families have visited them in Kansas.

All of her life, Eula Mae was a travel enthusiast - planning many family vacations. Don and Eula Mae attended many national and international IFYE conferences. They also participated in mission trips, disaster relief cleanups, group tour vacations around the world and numerous motorcycle excursions. Eula Mae was an abundance of energy, never met a stranger, loved to travel, and generously practiced hospitality.

Eula Mae passed away on February 10, 2022. Survivors include her husband, Don, of Lyons, KS; Daughters Kristen Higgens of Beatrice, NE; and Teresa (Joel) Miller of St. John, KS, as well as 8 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

If you, or someone you know, has experienced the amazing benefits and rewards of international travel and would like to help future 4-H travelers (ages 12-25-years-old) for generations to come, this endowed fund has been set up to receive additional contributions through the Kansas 4-H Foundation, 1680 Charles Place, Manhattan, KS 66502; 785-775-0123. Visit: https://www.kansas4hfoundation.org/give/. Please reference the “Kansas IFYE Association Endowment Fund, #06-4925” in the Designation Section in the “Please add any additional information about your gift” box. This will ensure your tax-deductible gift goes to this new fund.

Kansas IFYE Association Background The IFYE Exchange Program was founded after World War II as young Americans perceived the need for greater international understanding and cooperation. United States participants live and work with host families in another country, while youth from abroad live with host families in the United States for an equal amount of time. The IFYE and the host family learn about each other’s culture by participating in the host family’s daily life, promoting “Peace Through Understanding”. Exchanges have continued for nearly 75 years (in 2023), and more than 4,000 Americans have lived in 116 countries while a similar number of young people from those nations have come to the United States. Upon returning home, IFYE participants share their once-in-a-lifetime experiences with thousands of people in their communities, state, and nation. To learn more about the Kansas IFYE Program and current programs available to 4-H youth ages 12-25, please visit: https://www.kansas4-h.org/events-activities/global-citizenship/.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669041847353.jpeg" alt="Don and the late Eula Mae Goodfellow, generous donors to the Kansas IFYE (International 4-H Youth Exchange) Association" />
 <figcaption>Don and the late Eula Mae Goodfellow, generous donors to the Kansas IFYE (International 4-H Youth Exchange) Association</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) Association is honored by a generous contribution from the Don Goodfellow family of Lyons in honor of Eula Mae Goodfellow that showcases their continued commitment to helping youth explore and learn about the world around them. Eula Mae was a beloved member of the IFYE family and a shining example of how international travel can be life changing. The Goodfellow family gift was the catalyst for the Kansas IFYE Association to partner with the Kansas 4-H Foundation to create a $25,000 endowed scholarship to support Kansas youth interested in international travel through 4-H programs for many years to come.It was 1955 - Eula Mae Murrey’s junior year at McPherson College when she made plans to be a part of the Kansas IFYE (formerly known as International Farm Youth Exchange) program to Belgium. Two weeks before she left her McPherson County home to go on this trip, Don Goodfellow proposed marriage to her - as he was also leaving for one year with the International Voluntary Service (IVS) program in Iraq. Eula Mae and Don said a hard goodbye at the train station in Salina when he left for orientation in Washington, DC. Then a few days later, Eula Mae left for her IFYE experience. You can imagine her surprise when Don met her at the Washington, D.C. train station as she was arriving there for her orientation, and found out that his departure to Iraq had been delayed. These moments set into motion a lifelong commitment to each other AND travel; two things that they both thoroughly enjoyed.As an IFYE, Eula Mae stayed with four different farm families while in Belgium. Two families spoke French, and two spoke Flemish. Since she took French in college, she was able to communicate well, and thankfully she was a fast learner, as she picked up enough Flemish language to manage.One of her host families had milk cows, so she enjoyed bottle feeding the calves and helping the host mother make butter and cheese. According to the letters she sent to Don in Iraq, she never complained about her harsh living conditions, and always had something positive to say.Eula Mae returned to Kansas in late 1955 and finished her senior year in one semester at McPherson College prior to Don returning home. They were married May 17, 1956, and spent one year in Ohio where Don was the farm manager for Heifer International, Inc. The opportunity arose that they could ride a freightliner boat as a seagoing cowboy traveling to Germany with the heifers to be distributed for the Heifer Project. They purchased a Volkswagen car in the USA, but picked it up from the factory in Germany, and put 8,000 miles on it as they toured all over Europe and visited all of Eula Mae’s hostfamilies in Belgium. After their trip, they loaded the car on the freightliner and shipped it to the states for their return to Kansas, where they drove it until their family grew out of it.Eula Mae and Don through the years stayed in contact with someone from each of her host families, since her memorable and life changing IFYE experience in 1955. In fact, four of the grandchildren from her host families have visited them in Kansas.All of her life, Eula Mae was a travel enthusiast - planning many family vacations. Don and Eula Mae attended many national and international IFYE conferences. They also participated in mission trips, disaster relief cleanups, group tour vacations around the world and numerous motorcycle excursions. Eula Mae was an abundance of energy, never met a stranger, loved to travel, and generously practiced hospitality.Eula Mae passed away on February 10, 2022. Survivors include her husband, Don, of Lyons, KS; Daughters Kristen Higgens of Beatrice, NE; and Teresa (Joel) Miller of St. John, KS, as well as 8 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.If you, or someone you know, has experienced the amazing benefits and rewards of international travel and would like to help future 4-H travelers (ages 12-25-years-old) for generations to come, this endowed fund has been set up to receive additional contributions through the Kansas 4-H Foundation, 1680 Charles Place, Manhattan, KS 66502; 785-775-0123. Visit: https://www.kansas4hfoundation.org/give/. Please reference the “Kansas IFYE Association Endowment Fund, #06-4925” in the Designation Section in the “Please add any additional information about your gift” box. This will ensure your tax-deductible gift goes to this new fund.Kansas IFYE Association Background The IFYE Exchange Program was founded after World War II as young Americans perceived the need for greater international understanding and cooperation. United States participants live and work with host families in another country, while youth from abroad live with host families in the United States for an equal amount of time. The IFYE and the host family learn about each other’s culture by participating in the host family’s daily life, promoting “Peace Through Understanding”. Exchanges have continued for nearly 75 years (in 2023), and more than 4,000 Americans have lived in 116 countries while a similar number of young people from those nations have come to the United States. Upon returning home, IFYE participants share their once-in-a-lifetime experiences with thousands of people in their communities, state, and nation. To learn more about the Kansas IFYE Program and current programs available to 4-H youth ages 12-25, please visit: https://www.kansas4-h.org/events-activities/global-citizenship/.

Goodfellow make donation to Kansas International 4-H Youth Exchange

Story by: Michael Dawes, PR director, Rosewood Services

City sidewalks; busy sidewalks; dressed in holiday style. It’s cookie contest time in the city! The 14th annual Great Bend Cookie Contest is scheduled for Nov. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in conjunction with Small Business Saturday.

The cookie contest allows people to sample cookies from participating businesses and vote for the best cookie in town. A record and maximum 250 shoppers have participated in the event each of the past two years. This year, cookie contest organizers are anticipating similar participation numbers and encourage shoppers to get their voting bracelets by noon, otherwise, they may already be gone.

Fifteen businesses, all located in downtown Great Bend, are involved in this year’s cookie contest. A donation of $5 is suggested for all participating judges. The collected proceeds go to the Food Bank of Barton County to help feed those in need during the holiday season and beyond.

To vote for your favorite cookie, stop by Cookie Headquarters on Saturday (Nov. 26) at Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 16th and Main in downtown Great Bend, to pick up a cookie box and voting bracelet. All votes to be counted must be returned to Cookie Headquarters by 4 p.m. on Nov. 26.

Besides getting to sample amazing cookies and having a say in which business bakes the best cookie, cookie contest judges have a chance to win prizes during drawings that will take place at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 26, following the “Home For The Holidays Parade” in downtown Great Bend. Drawing winners must be present at the band shell of Jack Kilby Square in order to win prizes. Following prize drawings, the winner of the Great Bend Cookie Contest will be announced.

Businesses participating in this year’s Great Bend Cookie Contest are Rosewood Furniture Gallery (Cookie Headquarters); That Hipster Place; Kustom Floor Designs; Buckle; Great Bend Coffee; Bling; Creative &amp; Unique Craft Fair; Rosewood Bargain Barn; A440 Musical Instruments; Forever Young (Kids Resale); Heart of Kansas/Ms. Pretty Pickles; RePerks Coffee Shop; The Wright Place; Rosewood Wine Cellar; and Rana Luna Boutique.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668724777928.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, PR director, Rosewood ServicesCity sidewalks; busy sidewalks; dressed in holiday style. It’s cookie contest time in the city! The 14th annual Great Bend Cookie Contest is scheduled for Nov. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in conjunction with Small Business Saturday.The cookie contest allows people to sample cookies from participating businesses and vote for the best cookie in town. A record and maximum 250 shoppers have participated in the event each of the past two years. This year, cookie contest organizers are anticipating similar participation numbers and encourage shoppers to get their voting bracelets by noon, otherwise, they may already be gone.Fifteen businesses, all located in downtown Great Bend, are involved in this year’s cookie contest. A donation of $5 is suggested for all participating judges. The collected proceeds go to the Food Bank of Barton County to help feed those in need during the holiday season and beyond.To vote for your favorite cookie, stop by Cookie Headquarters on Saturday (Nov. 26) at Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 16th and Main in downtown Great Bend, to pick up a cookie box and voting bracelet. All votes to be counted must be returned to Cookie Headquarters by 4 p.m. on Nov. 26.Besides getting to sample amazing cookies and having a say in which business bakes the best cookie, cookie contest judges have a chance to win prizes during drawings that will take place at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 26, following the “Home For The Holidays Parade” in downtown Great Bend. Drawing winners must be present at the band shell of Jack Kilby Square in order to win prizes. Following prize drawings, the winner of the Great Bend Cookie Contest will be announced.Businesses participating in this year’s Great Bend Cookie Contest are Rosewood Furniture Gallery (Cookie Headquarters); That Hipster Place; Kustom Floor Designs; Buckle; Great Bend Coffee; Bling; Creative &amp; Unique Craft Fair; Rosewood Bargain Barn; A440 Musical Instruments; Forever Young (Kids Resale); Heart of Kansas/Ms. Pretty Pickles; RePerks Coffee Shop; The Wright Place; Rosewood Wine Cellar; and Rana Luna Boutique.

It’s cookie contest time in Great Bend

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

LA CROSSE — A couple from La Crosse has purchased the Rush County Grocery and will reopen it after the first of the year as B's Hometown Market.

Rush County has been without a grocery store since August when Rush County Grocery was seized by the state for nonpayment of taxes.

These last few months have been the first time Rush County has been without a grocery store in 140 years.

Pat and Kelly Baalmann are in the process of remodeling the building at 518 Main in La Crosse.

Pat said the couple, who had run a restaurant and bar in Herrington, had been approached twice by a local banker about purchasing and operating the grocery store. Pat, a native of La Crosse, worked at the grocery store when he was in high school.

The Baalmanns are making about a $500,000 investment in gutting the building and replacing all of the old shelving and equipment.

The coolers in the building had been there likely since the 1980s, Kelly said. They were all open coolers, which are not very energy efficient. The former owners were constantly struggling with cooler breakdowns, Kelly said.

The Baalmanns worked with Midwest Energy to do an energy audit of the business. They estimate they can cut their energy bill in half by installing new coolers and LED lights.

Pat said keeping operating costs low so the business can keep prices reasonable is going to be one of the most significant challenges.

Inflation has driven up meat and dairy costs. Meats, poultry, eggs and fish have had an 11.4 percent increase in the past year.

Many small rural communities have seen discount stores enter their markets. La Crosse has a Dollar Tree, Family Dollar and Dollar General. Pat said he did not see the discount stores hurting his business.

"I've talked to a couple of other grocery people that are in our same situation, a small town with Walmart and Dillons 30 minutes away," Pat said.

"The Dollar Tree and Dollar General have actually helped them because [customers] are not going to Walmart to get their toilet paper and Kleenex. They are running to the local stores for that and staying local for the food."

The Baalmanns will have many of the same products as the former grocery store. They will continue to be supplied by Affiliated Foods of Amarillo, Texas. However, the meat department will be twice as big. 

Selection also will be a challenge, Pat said.

"In a small town, you can't bring in everything that everyone wants," he said. "You just don't have the room. We'll fight that battle and do as much special ordering as we can."

Kelly added, "We'll be learning what our community's wants and needs are."

Kelly said she wants to get back to the small-town market feel by offering services such as carry-out.

Brad Penka, Rush County Economic Development administrator, said the grocery store has been sorely missed in the short time it has been closed.

"People really need that source of fresh, healthy foods that the store will provide," he said.

Kelly said the community has realized the importance of having a grocery store since the Rush County Grocery closed. 

Kelly said she has talked to a couple of owners of rental properties who said their tenants moved out after the grocery store closed.

The store was bringing in $22,000 to $25,000 in sales tax revenue.

The Baalmanns said the elderly and disabled have been hit especially hard by the absence of a grocery store. In her market research, Kelly said she found that 30 percent of the Rush County population are seniors or have disabilities. That is why B's Hometown Market will offer delivery, she said.

"It makes those little differences on the weekend when you can't just go and get a bag of lettuce if you need a bag of lettuce," she said.

Businesses, such as the hospital, the nursing home and day cares, also need access to fresh meat and produce, she said.

Penka added, "We do appreciate the Baalmann's were able to step up so quickly. That is greatly appreciated by all of us in the community."

The Baalmanns had hoped to reopen the store in January, but they have run into delays getting the new equipment because of supply chain issues. Pat said the store will probably open in February.

Pat will be working in the business full time, but Kelly plans to keep the full-time job she has now and work in the business part time. The Baalmanns' children, 21 and 14, also will likely be involved.

The couple plans to hire four full-time staff and five to 10 part-time workers. 

Hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. You can follow the store on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=b%27s%20hometown%20market">Facebook</a>.

"We are excited about this, and we think it will be great for us and great for the community," Kelly said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668805937846.jpeg" alt="Kelly and Pat Baalmann of La Crosse have purchased the grocery store in LaCrosse and hope to reopen it after the first of the year as B's Hometown Market. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kelly and Pat Baalmann of La Crosse have purchased the grocery store in LaCrosse and hope to reopen it after the first of the year as B's Hometown Market. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLA CROSSE — A couple from La Crosse has purchased the Rush County Grocery and will reopen it after the first of the year as B's Hometown Market. Rush County has been without a grocery store since August when Rush County Grocery was seized by the state for nonpayment of taxes.These last few months have been the first time Rush County has been without a grocery store in 140 years. Pat and Kelly Baalmann are in the process of remodeling the building at 518 Main in La Crosse.Pat said the couple, who had run a restaurant and bar in Herrington, had been approached twice by a local banker about purchasing and operating the grocery store. Pat, a native of La Crosse, worked at the grocery store when he was in high school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668806213516.jpeg" alt="B' s Hometown Market will be at 518 Main in La Crosse. The state closed the former store in August for nonpayment of taxes, leaving the county without a full-service grocery store for the first time in 140 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>B' s Hometown Market will be at 518 Main in La Crosse. The state closed the former store in August for nonpayment of taxes, leaving the county without a full-service grocery store for the first time in 140 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The Baalmanns are making about a $500,000 investment in gutting the building and replacing all of the old shelving and equipment.The coolers in the building had been there likely since the 1980s, Kelly said. They were all open coolers, which are not very energy efficient. The former owners were constantly struggling with cooler breakdowns, Kelly said.The Baalmanns worked with Midwest Energy to do an energy audit of the business. They estimate they can cut their energy bill in half by installing new coolers and LED lights.Pat said keeping operating costs low so the business can keep prices reasonable is going to be one of the most significant challenges.Inflation has driven up meat and dairy costs. Meats, poultry, eggs and fish have had an 11.4 percent increase in the past year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668806245791.jpeg" alt="Pat and Kelly Baalmann are gutting the former grocery store in La Crosse and are purchasing all new equipment and shelving. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Pat and Kelly Baalmann are gutting the former grocery store in La Crosse and are purchasing all new equipment and shelving. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Many small rural communities have seen discount stores enter their markets. La Crosse has a Dollar Tree, Family Dollar and Dollar General. Pat said he did not see the discount stores hurting his business."I've talked to a couple of other grocery people that are in our same situation, a small town with Walmart and Dillons 30 minutes away," Pat said. "The Dollar Tree and Dollar General have actually helped them because [customers] are not going to Walmart to get their toilet paper and Kleenex. They are running to the local stores for that and staying local for the food." The Baalmanns will have many of the same products as the former grocery store. They will continue to be supplied by Affiliated Foods of Amarillo, Texas. However, the meat department will be twice as big. Selection also will be a challenge, Pat said."In a small town, you can't bring in everything that everyone wants," he said. "You just don't have the room. We'll fight that battle and do as much special ordering as we can." Kelly added, "We'll be learning what our community's wants and needs are."Kelly said she wants to get back to the small-town market feel by offering services such as carry-out.Brad Penka, Rush County Economic Development administrator, said the grocery store has been sorely missed in the short time it has been closed."People really need that source of fresh, healthy foods that the store will provide," he said.Kelly said the community has realized the importance of having a grocery store since the Rush County Grocery closed. Kelly said she has talked to a couple of owners of rental properties who said their tenants moved out after the grocery store closed.The store was bringing in $22,000 to $25,000 in sales tax revenue.The Baalmanns said the elderly and disabled have been hit especially hard by the absence of a grocery store. In her market research, Kelly said she found that 30 percent of the Rush County population are seniors or have disabilities. That is why B's Hometown Market will offer delivery, she said."It makes those little differences on the weekend when you can't just go and get a bag of lettuce if you need a bag of lettuce," she said.Businesses, such as the hospital, the nursing home and day cares, also need access to fresh meat and produce, she said.Penka added, "We do appreciate the Baalmann's were able to step up so quickly. That is greatly appreciated by all of us in the community." The Baalmanns had hoped to reopen the store in January, but they have run into delays getting the new equipment because of supply chain issues. Pat said the store will probably open in February.Pat will be working in the business full time, but Kelly plans to keep the full-time job she has now and work in the business part time. The Baalmanns' children, 21 and 14, also will likely be involved.The couple plans to hire four full-time staff and five to 10 part-time workers. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. You can follow the store on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=b%27s%20hometown%20market">Facebook</a>. "We are excited about this, and we think it will be great for us and great for the community," Kelly said.

Local couple to reopen grocery store in La Crosse

11/18 BOOKED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Isaak Fischer, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Todd Edgar on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, no bond set.

BOOKED: Daniel Bartonek on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: William Blake on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, to Juvenile Services.

11/19 BOOKED: Jill Alexander on Barton County Court cases, to serve sentence.

RELEASED: Gabriel Koerner on Rush County Sherrif's Office Warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Turn Signal, and No Proof of Insurance, on $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Candace Jones on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, after time served.

11/20 BOOKED: Todd Edgar on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/18 BOOKED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Isaak Fischer, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Todd Edgar on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, no bond set.BOOKED: Daniel Bartonek on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Dalton Staudinger on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.RELEASED: William Blake on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, to Juvenile Services.11/19 BOOKED: Jill Alexander on Barton County Court cases, to serve sentence.RELEASED: Gabriel Koerner on Rush County Sherrif's Office Warrant, after time served.RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Turn Signal, and No Proof of Insurance, on $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Candace Jones on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, after time served.11/20 BOOKED: Todd Edgar on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (11/18 - 11/20)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Sometimes a little idea becomes a big deal. Great Bend High School Special Education Teacher Dawn Szot and Counselor Rachel Thexton started the Panther Pantry two years ago. The small idea has blossomed into an effective way to send food home with hungry kids.

"Rachel Thexton and I just had a conversation in her office one afternoon, and we were talking about the needs of some of our kids," Szot said. "Neither one of us really has the let's-table-it-for-later attitude. By that afternoon, we had sent out an email to staff asking for teen-friendly food donations. It kind of just snowballed from there."

The process is simple: students in need can reach out to one of three guidance counselors in the building. That counselor will then reach out to Szot, who fills a bag with food and delivers it to the counselor, who hands it off to the student in need. The simple service is invaluable on weekends or breaks when school meals are unavailable.

The food comes from various sources, from students to businesses and churches, and monetary donations. Keeping food stocked can be an issue, especially heading into extended breaks like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Szot said the pantry got some big help on Thursday when the Great Plains Association of Realtors dropped off several boxes of food en route to delivering food to all the high schools in Barton County.

"I have been completely overwhelmed with how much the community has supported us," said Szot. "The students within our building have been phenomenal. They bring in stuff just because they want to, or if they're trying to earn their service points, but the fact that the community has shown so much generosity, I was in tears (Thursday) they brought in all that food."

But that food will not last forever. Szot said there is a need for the service in the school, and she and Thexton have had to make shopping trips to keep food in the cupboards. Even the recent donation will likely be gone after Christmas. 

A monetary fund has been set up at the school, and Szot and Thexton can use that to shop for groceries. Anyone wishing to donate money or food can call Great Bend High School at (620) 793-1521 and ask for Szot or Thexton for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668788899234.jpeg" alt="A recent donation filled the Panther Pantry at Great Bend High School, but the food will go fast heading into the holiday season." />
 <figcaption>A recent donation filled the Panther Pantry at Great Bend High School, but the food will go fast heading into the holiday season.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSometimes a little idea becomes a big deal. Great Bend High School Special Education Teacher Dawn Szot and Counselor Rachel Thexton started the Panther Pantry two years ago. The small idea has blossomed into an effective way to send food home with hungry kids."Rachel Thexton and I just had a conversation in her office one afternoon, and we were talking about the needs of some of our kids," Szot said. "Neither one of us really has the let's-table-it-for-later attitude. By that afternoon, we had sent out an email to staff asking for teen-friendly food donations. It kind of just snowballed from there."The process is simple: students in need can reach out to one of three guidance counselors in the building. That counselor will then reach out to Szot, who fills a bag with food and delivers it to the counselor, who hands it off to the student in need. The simple service is invaluable on weekends or breaks when school meals are unavailable.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668788976289.jpeg" alt="A giant donation from the Great Plains Association of Realtors supplemented other donations from students, businesses, churches, and private individuals." />
 <figcaption>A giant donation from the Great Plains Association of Realtors supplemented other donations from students, businesses, churches, and private individuals.</figcaption>
 </figure>The food comes from various sources, from students to businesses and churches, and monetary donations. Keeping food stocked can be an issue, especially heading into extended breaks like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Szot said the pantry got some big help on Thursday when the Great Plains Association of Realtors dropped off several boxes of food en route to delivering food to all the high schools in Barton County."I have been completely overwhelmed with how much the community has supported us," said Szot. "The students within our building have been phenomenal. They bring in stuff just because they want to, or if they're trying to earn their service points, but the fact that the community has shown so much generosity, I was in tears (Thursday) they brought in all that food."But that food will not last forever. Szot said there is a need for the service in the school, and she and Thexton have had to make shopping trips to keep food in the cupboards. Even the recent donation will likely be gone after Christmas. A monetary fund has been set up at the school, and Szot and Thexton can use that to shop for groceries. Anyone wishing to donate money or food can call Great Bend High School at (620) 793-1521 and ask for Szot or Thexton for more information.

GBHS Panther Pantry bridging the gap when meals aren't available

Today Sunny, with a high near 58. West southwest wind around 7 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 26. Southeast wind around 7 mph becoming southwest after midnight.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 6 to 11 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26. South wind 5 to 8 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32.

Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 56.

Friday Night Clear, with a low around 33.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 60.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 57.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 58. West southwest wind around 7 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.Tonight Clear, with a low around 26. Southeast wind around 7 mph becoming southwest after midnight.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 6 to 11 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26. South wind 5 to 8 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 32.Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.Friday Sunny, with a high near 56.Friday Night Clear, with a low around 33.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 60.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 57.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's Weather

Hear this month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired Nov. 17, 2022.

The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month 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 month's Focus on Ellinwood show with host Nancy Baird that aired Nov. 17, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/nw34oezj/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Focus on Ellinwood program airs the third Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎧Focus on Ellinwood show

“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now,” declares an old Chinese proverb that makes regular rounds on social media. I can’t think of a more apt statement for our times.

In the last few years, I’ve heard more and more people comment the world rages out of control and that scares them. If lack of control frightens even heroes, then it really frightens youngsters who haven’t survived the natural, societal, and familial cycles that older folks slogged through. Boomers born to Depression and WW II survivors grew up living lessons of how to outlast hard times, but our kids and grandkids know a different world. So, what can we manage while the list of what we can’t grows longer?

We can plant trees. Performing this simple action adds beauty, increases shade in the yard, creates humus to nurture soil and pollinators, and invites birds into the neighborhood. Best of all, nothing so simple does a better job converting carbon dioxide to oxygen than a tree.

While a drought cycle dominates western Kansas weather, we can use ingenuity and rain barrels to offer newly established saplings a decent start. Such a simple action shows our little ones we believe in their future and that one person can improve the world.

One reason we considered this house before we bought it was the fact someone decades ago planted five pines, an ash, an elm, and a mulberry tree out back. That ash shades us from morning sun. It and the other trees offer nesting sites and performance venues when birds feel like singing or fussing up a storm.

When we purchased the house, a sapling silver maple and two small lindens stood out front along with a mature locust that shades our neighbor’s house in the late afternoon. Although we water it, it doesn’t offer us a reprieve from late day heat.

To solve that dilemma, we strategically planted two oaks trees that in time will block sun rays from hitting our living area and front bedroom on scorching afternoons. Currently our acorn producers stand about 6 feet tall, so they have some growing to do before they offer effective shade.

Because we live by a highway, we wanted to muffle passing vehicles and create a privacy fence that looks nice. For help, we visited Ponderosa Nursery west of Ellis to get suggestions for something that would grow big enough to screen traffic noise and still look nice from both the front window and the highway. They understood exactly what we needed and returned from a buying trip up north with blue-eyed spruce trees that while still small have already grown.

When we talk tree planting, the realist lurking in our brains reminds us we won’t live long enough to see our recent transplants reach maturity. That voice speaks truth. Then we consider expense and physical labor. Planting hope for the future requires budgeting money and energy. Despite the negatives, we know a future family will enjoy shade we planted as we rest under the ash and pines out back. I’m grateful to that soul who planted those trees decades ago. I don’t know if that person saw their efforts reach full growth, but he or she made our lives better.

If you didn’t do it 20 years ago, now is the best time to plant a tree.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668787977534.jpeg" alt="written by: Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now,” declares an old Chinese proverb that makes regular rounds on social media. I can’t think of a more apt statement for our times.In the last few years, I’ve heard more and more people comment the world rages out of control and that scares them. If lack of control frightens even heroes, then it really frightens youngsters who haven’t survived the natural, societal, and familial cycles that older folks slogged through. Boomers born to Depression and WW II survivors grew up living lessons of how to outlast hard times, but our kids and grandkids know a different world. So, what can we manage while the list of what we can’t grows longer?We can plant trees. Performing this simple action adds beauty, increases shade in the yard, creates humus to nurture soil and pollinators, and invites birds into the neighborhood. Best of all, nothing so simple does a better job converting carbon dioxide to oxygen than a tree.While a drought cycle dominates western Kansas weather, we can use ingenuity and rain barrels to offer newly established saplings a decent start. Such a simple action shows our little ones we believe in their future and that one person can improve the world.One reason we considered this house before we bought it was the fact someone decades ago planted five pines, an ash, an elm, and a mulberry tree out back. That ash shades us from morning sun. It and the other trees offer nesting sites and performance venues when birds feel like singing or fussing up a storm.When we purchased the house, a sapling silver maple and two small lindens stood out front along with a mature locust that shades our neighbor’s house in the late afternoon. Although we water it, it doesn’t offer us a reprieve from late day heat.To solve that dilemma, we strategically planted two oaks trees that in time will block sun rays from hitting our living area and front bedroom on scorching afternoons. Currently our acorn producers stand about 6 feet tall, so they have some growing to do before they offer effective shade.Because we live by a highway, we wanted to muffle passing vehicles and create a privacy fence that looks nice. For help, we visited Ponderosa Nursery west of Ellis to get suggestions for something that would grow big enough to screen traffic noise and still look nice from both the front window and the highway. They understood exactly what we needed and returned from a buying trip up north with blue-eyed spruce trees that while still small have already grown.When we talk tree planting, the realist lurking in our brains reminds us we won’t live long enough to see our recent transplants reach maturity. That voice speaks truth. Then we consider expense and physical labor. Planting hope for the future requires budgeting money and energy. Despite the negatives, we know a future family will enjoy shade we planted as we rest under the ash and pines out back. I’m grateful to that soul who planted those trees decades ago. I don’t know if that person saw their efforts reach full growth, but he or she made our lives better.If you didn’t do it 20 years ago, now is the best time to plant a tree.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: Now is better than never

Great Bend City Council meeting Nov. 21 - 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/. OPENING: Pledge of Allegiance A. Consent Agenda B. Old Business 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; &nbsp; 1. Great Plains Development: Bob Wetmore with Great Plains Development would like to speak to the council about the services they provide to cities and counties. D. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;2. Councilmember Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;3. Administrator's Update &nbsp; &nbsp;4. CVB / Community Coordinator Report &nbsp; &nbsp;5. Abatements &nbsp; &nbsp;6. Purchase of 2023 F-250 for Park Department &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Public Lands has budgeted for a truck in 2022. The city requested bids for a 3/4 ton 4x4 truck and received two. Marmie Ford was the low bid at $45,365. This truck will replace a 1993 Dodge Dakota. &nbsp; &nbsp;7. Executive Session&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to discuss information deemed privileged in the attorney-client relations. The executive session will include the governing body, city administrator and city attorney. ADJOURNMENT

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657285872913.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Council meeting Nov. 21 - 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/. OPENING: Pledge of Allegiance A. Consent Agenda B. Old Business 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; &nbsp; 1. Great Plains Development: Bob Wetmore with Great Plains Development would like to speak to the council about the services they provide to cities and counties. D. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;2. Councilmember Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;3. Administrator's Update &nbsp; &nbsp;4. CVB / Community Coordinator Report &nbsp; &nbsp;5. Abatements &nbsp; &nbsp;6. Purchase of 2023 F-250 for Park Department &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Public Lands has budgeted for a truck in 2022. The city requested bids for a 3/4 ton 4x4 truck and received two. Marmie Ford was the low bid at $45,365. This truck will replace a 1993 Dodge Dakota. &nbsp; &nbsp;7. Executive Session&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to discuss information deemed privileged in the attorney-client relations. The executive session will include the governing body, city administrator and city attorney. ADJOURNMENT

Great Bend City Council meeting agenda (11/21)

The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, November 15, indicates the same drought
conditions as last week and the snowfall wasn’t enough to change things.&nbsp; We are still in extreme drought and exceptional
drought is creeping towards our area again.&nbsp;
It’s pretty grim.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (November 22 to 26) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of above normal temperatures
and a 33 to 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; The cold temperatures will slow that down a
bit.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (November
24 to 30) indicates a 50 to 70% chance of above normal temperatures and a 33 to
40% chance of above below normal precipitation.&nbsp;
Below normal precipitation heading into the driest time of year isn’t
promising.

While cold temperatures this time of
year aren’t uncommon, the past week of nighttime temperatures in the middle to
lower teens for an extended period of days is unusual.&nbsp; Some producers are a bit concerned about
their wheat crop.&nbsp; Should they be?&nbsp; And if so, why?

If this were a “normal” year with
some soil moisture allowing for normal establishment of the crown and roots
with wheat planted and germinating as we would want, the answer would be very
little concern.&nbsp; Maybe some leaf
burn.&nbsp; But this is far from a normal
year. The area is mostly in extreme and exceptional drought and has been for an
extended period.&nbsp; Even though many fields
of wheat have emerged, emergence took longer than usual with dry soils.&nbsp; The potential problem is twofold: the plant
and the soil.

The
development of the plant has a great deal to do with its ability to withstand
cold temperatures.&nbsp; Remember, the growing
point is in the soil now at planting depth.&nbsp;
A well-developed crown with decent growth helps insulate the growing
point.&nbsp; Next, a well-developed root
system helps, one with secondary root development.&nbsp; A poorly developed root system is more
susceptible to damage.&nbsp; And a plant cells
with adequate moisture, especially the roots and growing point, are also better
able to withstand cold.&nbsp; The final
concern is transitioning from warm to cold temperatures.&nbsp; Wheat gains winterhardiness based on two
environmental factors: daylength and temperature.&nbsp; Decreasing daylength causes physiological
changes for overwintering.&nbsp; Decreasing
temperatures also trigger these changes.&nbsp;
If cold occurs gradually, the plant changes cell contents and is
normally good.&nbsp; Abrupt changes are more
challenging for the plant and it’s more likely to evidence damage to above
ground vegetation.&nbsp; Not as likely to
damage the growing point.

Soil
moisture is the other big factor.&nbsp; We
just discussed the impact of soil moisture, or lack of it, on germination and
growth.&nbsp; The other concern is soil
temperature.&nbsp; Moist soils have a higher
specific heat and cool much more soil and have less variation during a 24-hour
period than dry soil.&nbsp; There is a much
greater chance of soil temperatures at the depth of the growing point damaging
it with extremely dry soils.

Having
said all this, it’s still unlikely there was significant damage to the crop and
the growing point should be fine.&nbsp;
However, if soil moisture remains very short, there is a much greater
chance of damage to the growing point as winter progresses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596200583759.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The
drought monitor report as of Tuesday, November 15, indicates the same drought
conditions as last week and the snowfall wasn’t enough to change things.&nbsp; We are still in extreme drought and exceptional
drought is creeping towards our area again.&nbsp;
It’s pretty grim.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (November 22 to 26) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of above normal temperatures
and a 33 to 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; The cold temperatures will slow that down a
bit.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (November
24 to 30) indicates a 50 to 70% chance of above normal temperatures and a 33 to
40% chance of above below normal precipitation.&nbsp;
Below normal precipitation heading into the driest time of year isn’t
promising.While cold temperatures this time of
year aren’t uncommon, the past week of nighttime temperatures in the middle to
lower teens for an extended period of days is unusual.&nbsp; Some producers are a bit concerned about
their wheat crop.&nbsp; Should they be?&nbsp; And if so, why?If this were a “normal” year with
some soil moisture allowing for normal establishment of the crown and roots
with wheat planted and germinating as we would want, the answer would be very
little concern.&nbsp; Maybe some leaf
burn.&nbsp; But this is far from a normal
year. The area is mostly in extreme and exceptional drought and has been for an
extended period.&nbsp; Even though many fields
of wheat have emerged, emergence took longer than usual with dry soils.&nbsp; The potential problem is twofold: the plant
and the soil.The
development of the plant has a great deal to do with its ability to withstand
cold temperatures.&nbsp; Remember, the growing
point is in the soil now at planting depth.&nbsp;
A well-developed crown with decent growth helps insulate the growing
point.&nbsp; Next, a well-developed root
system helps, one with secondary root development.&nbsp; A poorly developed root system is more
susceptible to damage.&nbsp; And a plant cells
with adequate moisture, especially the roots and growing point, are also better
able to withstand cold.&nbsp; The final
concern is transitioning from warm to cold temperatures.&nbsp; Wheat gains winterhardiness based on two
environmental factors: daylength and temperature.&nbsp; Decreasing daylength causes physiological
changes for overwintering.&nbsp; Decreasing
temperatures also trigger these changes.&nbsp;
If cold occurs gradually, the plant changes cell contents and is
normally good.&nbsp; Abrupt changes are more
challenging for the plant and it’s more likely to evidence damage to above
ground vegetation.&nbsp; Not as likely to
damage the growing point.Soil
moisture is the other big factor.&nbsp; We
just discussed the impact of soil moisture, or lack of it, on germination and
growth.&nbsp; The other concern is soil
temperature.&nbsp; Moist soils have a higher
specific heat and cool much more soil and have less variation during a 24-hour
period than dry soil.&nbsp; There is a much
greater chance of soil temperatures at the depth of the growing point damaging
it with extremely dry soils.Having
said all this, it’s still unlikely there was significant damage to the crop and
the growing point should be fine.&nbsp;
However, if soil moisture remains very short, there is a much greater
chance of damage to the growing point as winter progresses.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Early Cold and Wheat Plant Damage

RUSSELL — A Christmas Galleria is seeking to raise funds for a new accessible play park in Russell.

The community already has raised about $40,000 toward the $1 million project, which will replace equipment that has aged out in Memorial Park next to the fairgrounds. With fencing and accessories, the project will need closer to $1.5 million.

The Arc of the Central Plains, which also lent support to a similar project in Hays, is mentoring the Russell group, said Kathy McAdoo, Arc executive director and Russell resident.

McAdoo said she hopes community members will take the time to research the project. Accessible equipment and surfacing are more expensive than standard playground equipment.

Although mulch is Americans with Disabilities Act compliant, most people who use walkers and wheelchairs can't navigate through it, which means parks that use mulch as ground cover are not accessible, McAdoo said.

The Russell Park will have similar equipment and surfacing to the ARC Park in Hays with different colors and themes, McAdoo said. The Russell group is working with the same companies as Hays.

The new equipment will include accessible swings, zip line, we-g0-round, play structures with ramps, sensory equipment, musical equipment and a quiet place for children who become overstimulated.

McAdoo said Russell residents have been watching the development of the ARC Park in Hays and decided when it was time to replace the equipment at Memorial Park, they wanted to replace it with accessible equipment.

"Not only are there kids and adults there who will be thrilled to have it," she said, " but also people in the neighboring communities around Russell. They also get a fair amount of I-70 traffic and a number of ball tournaments that come through Russell. It's kind of a natural thing."

McAdoo said accessible parks allow all kids to play side by side—something they may not be able to do at school.

"Here they are all playing, and there are no barriers and they can just be themselves," she said.

Volunteers hope to have the project completed within two years, McAdoo said.

The project is still in its infancy, McAdoo said. However, all funds raised in Russell will stay in Russell.

The Christmas Galleria in Russell is an attempt to replicate the Festival of Trees in Hays that has raised funds for the Hays ARC Park.

The Galleria is offering 45 items, including decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, holiday tabletop displays and outdoor decor. Almost all of the materials for the decorations were donated and the same volunteers who created the pieces for the Hays Festival of Trees created pieces for the Russell Galleria.

"This is a unique fundraiser for Russell," McAdoo said. "This is the first time anything like this has been done. We are hoping to add something to the holiday season in Russell—another fun activity, another way to connect the community and bring people out to see what other folks have created.

"Russell is a very giving community."

The
 online auction is live now and will run through 5 p.m. Monday. A link to the auction will be on the home page of the 
Russell Play Park website at <a href="https://www.russellplaypark.com">www.russellplaypark.com</a>.&nbsp; Donors also can give directly at any time by visiting that site.

The auction items can be viewed during normal business hours noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at the <a href="http://deinesculturalcenter.org">Deines Cultural Center</a> in downtown Russell.

You can also follow the park project on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russellplaypark">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668640066286.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostRUSSELL — A Christmas Galleria is seeking to raise funds for a new accessible play park in Russell.The community already has raised about $40,000 toward the $1 million project, which will replace equipment that has aged out in Memorial Park next to the fairgrounds. With fencing and accessories, the project will need closer to $1.5 million.The Arc of the Central Plains, which also lent support to a similar project in Hays, is mentoring the Russell group, said Kathy McAdoo, Arc executive director and Russell resident.McAdoo said she hopes community members will take the time to research the project. Accessible equipment and surfacing are more expensive than standard playground equipment.Although mulch is Americans with Disabilities Act compliant, most people who use walkers and wheelchairs can't navigate through it, which means parks that use mulch as ground cover are not accessible, McAdoo said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668640228827.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Russell Park will have similar equipment and surfacing to the ARC Park in Hays with different colors and themes, McAdoo said. The Russell group is working with the same companies as Hays.The new equipment will include accessible swings, zip line, we-g0-round, play structures with ramps, sensory equipment, musical equipment and a quiet place for children who become overstimulated.McAdoo said Russell residents have been watching the development of the ARC Park in Hays and decided when it was time to replace the equipment at Memorial Park, they wanted to replace it with accessible equipment."Not only are there kids and adults there who will be thrilled to have it," she said, " but also people in the neighboring communities around Russell. They also get a fair amount of I-70 traffic and a number of ball tournaments that come through Russell. It's kind of a natural thing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668640365808.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>McAdoo said accessible parks allow all kids to play side by side—something they may not be able to do at school."Here they are all playing, and there are no barriers and they can just be themselves," she said.Volunteers hope to have the project completed within two years, McAdoo said.The project is still in its infancy, McAdoo said. However, all funds raised in Russell will stay in Russell.The Christmas Galleria in Russell is an attempt to replicate the Festival of Trees in Hays that has raised funds for the Hays ARC Park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668640424533.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Galleria is offering 45 items, including decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, holiday tabletop displays and outdoor decor. Almost all of the materials for the decorations were donated and the same volunteers who created the pieces for the Hays Festival of Trees created pieces for the Russell Galleria."This is a unique fundraiser for Russell," McAdoo said. "This is the first time anything like this has been done. We are hoping to add something to the holiday season in Russell—another fun activity, another way to connect the community and bring people out to see what other folks have created."Russell is a very giving community." The
 online auction is live now and will run through 5 p.m. Monday. A link to the auction will be on the home page of the 
Russell Play Park website at <a href="https://www.russellplaypark.com">www.russellplaypark.com</a>.&nbsp; Donors also can give directly at any time by visiting that site. The auction items can be viewed during normal business hours noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at the <a href="http://deinesculturalcenter.org">Deines Cultural Center</a> in downtown Russell. You can also follow the park project on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russellplaypark">Facebook</a>.

Christmas Galleria to raise funds for accessible Russell Play Park

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Commissioner Jon Prescott that aired Nov. 17, 2022.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Commissioner Jon Prescott that aired Nov. 17, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/nyqkktwm/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎤County Edition: Commissioner Jon Prescott

The gap that has existed between people who are incarcerated and mental-health services is starting to close in central Kansas.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway, applied for and received a state grant that is funding the new Jail Program in the non-profit agency’s four-county service area – Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford.

The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services awarded the $316,666 grant last spring and the program has already served 114 people, said Shionta Gray, Community Support Services director at The Center.

“The funding is being used for staff to support incarcerated individuals,” Gray said. “The individuals normally don’t have insurance or private funds to pay for services that can address their underlying issues.

“These issues contribute to reasons for incarceration such as mental-health problems and/or substance use,” she explained. “We want to reduce recidivism and stop the revolving door. The grant has made it possible for us to tackle these issues. We are more than grateful.”

Recent statistics indicate that approximately 35 percent of Barton County Jail inmates have some type of mental-health issue. This was determined by a screening tool used at the facility.

“By opening a dialogue with jail personnel and those who are incarcerated, we are supporting people who want to obtain mental-health services such as case management, therapy and medication,” Gray noted. “We also help them with resources such as Medicaid, food stamps, housing and employment when they are released from jail.”

The Center is gathering data to help track the outcomes “to ensure we achieve the overall goals of the grant, which are to allow easy access to services and reduce recidivism,” Gray added.

The Center’s staff members recommend to people being released from jail to follow-up on concerns about mental health. They help schedule follow-up services with the provider of the individual’s choice.

“We also reach out periodically to determine if other resources are needed,” Gray said. “We are here to help them find resources right here in our community.”

The Center’s services include therapy, medication management, and case management for young people and adults.

“Our well-balanced mix of services can support people in recovery from substance-use disorder, while promoting stability and addressing employment and housing,” Gray noted. “Recidivism may be reduced, while we de-stigmatize mental-health problems and improve quality of life in our community.”

The Jail Program works in collaboration with the local Stepping Up Initiative, which is a framework that helps counties reduce the over-incarceration of people with mental illness. The Center is coordinating with jail personnel in Barton, Rice and Pawnee counties; Stafford doesn’t have a jail.

“This has been a learning experience for everyone and we have received positive feedback about the jail liaison,” Gray said. “We have heard it is going well with inmates and jail staff.”

In addition to Gray, staff members involved are: Tracie Haselhorst, crisis coordinator; Brenda Slagle, jail liaison; Scot Yarnell, nurse practitioner and medication-assisted treatment provider; and Marci Klug, registered nurse. Kathy Hines is the jail’s nurse.

Other clinicians and support staff will be added as needed.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668713654552.jpeg" alt="The new Jail Program team meets recently at the Barton County Detention Facility. From left to right are: Marci Klug, Tracie Haselhorst, Shionta Gray, Scot Yarnell, Kathy Hines, Sgt. Doug Parks and Brenda Slagle." />
 <figcaption>The new Jail Program team meets recently at the Barton County Detention Facility. From left to right are: Marci Klug, Tracie Haselhorst, Shionta Gray, Scot Yarnell, Kathy Hines, Sgt. Doug Parks and Brenda Slagle.</figcaption>
 </figure>The gap that has existed between people who are incarcerated and mental-health services is starting to close in central Kansas.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway, applied for and received a state grant that is funding the new Jail Program in the non-profit agency’s four-county service area – Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford.The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services awarded the $316,666 grant last spring and the program has already served 114 people, said Shionta Gray, Community Support Services director at The Center.“The funding is being used for staff to support incarcerated individuals,” Gray said. “The individuals normally don’t have insurance or private funds to pay for services that can address their underlying issues.“These issues contribute to reasons for incarceration such as mental-health problems and/or substance use,” she explained. “We want to reduce recidivism and stop the revolving door. The grant has made it possible for us to tackle these issues. We are more than grateful.”Recent statistics indicate that approximately 35 percent of Barton County Jail inmates have some type of mental-health issue. This was determined by a screening tool used at the facility.“By opening a dialogue with jail personnel and those who are incarcerated, we are supporting people who want to obtain mental-health services such as case management, therapy and medication,” Gray noted. “We also help them with resources such as Medicaid, food stamps, housing and employment when they are released from jail.”The Center is gathering data to help track the outcomes “to ensure we achieve the overall goals of the grant, which are to allow easy access to services and reduce recidivism,” Gray added.The Center’s staff members recommend to people being released from jail to follow-up on concerns about mental health. They help schedule follow-up services with the provider of the individual’s choice.“We also reach out periodically to determine if other resources are needed,” Gray said. “We are here to help them find resources right here in our community.”The Center’s services include therapy, medication management, and case management for young people and adults.“Our well-balanced mix of services can support people in recovery from substance-use disorder, while promoting stability and addressing employment and housing,” Gray noted. “Recidivism may be reduced, while we de-stigmatize mental-health problems and improve quality of life in our community.”The Jail Program works in collaboration with the local Stepping Up Initiative, which is a framework that helps counties reduce the over-incarceration of people with mental illness. The Center is coordinating with jail personnel in Barton, Rice and Pawnee counties; Stafford doesn’t have a jail.“This has been a learning experience for everyone and we have received positive feedback about the jail liaison,” Gray said. “We have heard it is going well with inmates and jail staff.”In addition to Gray, staff members involved are: Tracie Haselhorst, crisis coordinator; Brenda Slagle, jail liaison; Scot Yarnell, nurse practitioner and medication-assisted treatment provider; and Marci Klug, registered nurse. Kathy Hines is the jail’s nurse.Other clinicians and support staff will be added as needed.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

The Center starts new Jail Program with help of state grant

The big transition continues to move forward. Wednesday morning, Barton County Commissioners met with county department heads inside the vacant JC Penney building located catty-corner from the Barton County Courthouse. The goal is to find a suitable workspace for county operations while a new HVAC system is installed in the 104-year-old courthouse.

"We're moving forward and getting closer, but nothing definitive yet," said County Director of Operations Matt Patzner. "We're gathering more information. The further along we get, the more information we gather, the more questions we have. We have to be thorough with this and make sure we do it right, and that's a long process."

Cold and dark best described Wednesday's tour as the JC Penney building is currently without electricity. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson told employees the 50,000 square feet available in the building would be similar to the space inside the courthouse. Patzner said, ideally, departments with high foot traffic would be located on the lower floor of the former department store. "Even if the escalator is working," he said, "it's still not going to be ADA compliant." 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668701497147.jpeg" alt="Barton County Commissioner Kirby Krier with, from left: Appraiser Wendy Prosser, Commissioner-elect Tricia Schlessiger and Engineer Barry McManaman. A group of officials toured the old JC Penney building on Nov. 16, 2022." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Commissioner Kirby Krier with, from left: Appraiser Wendy Prosser, Commissioner-elect Tricia Schlessiger and Engineer Barry McManaman. A group of officials toured the old JC Penney building on Nov. 16, 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe big transition continues to move forward. Wednesday morning, Barton County Commissioners met with county department heads inside the vacant JC Penney building located catty-corner from the Barton County Courthouse. The goal is to find a suitable workspace for county operations while a new HVAC system is installed in the 104-year-old courthouse."We're moving forward and getting closer, but nothing definitive yet," said County Director of Operations Matt Patzner. "We're gathering more information. The further along we get, the more information we gather, the more questions we have. We have to be thorough with this and make sure we do it right, and that's a long process."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668704610534.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cold and dark best described Wednesday's tour as the JC Penney building is currently without electricity. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson told employees the 50,000 square feet available in the building would be similar to the space inside the courthouse. Patzner said, ideally, departments with high foot traffic would be located on the lower floor of the former department store. "Even if the escalator is working," he said, "it's still not going to be ADA compliant." Mark Bitter with Kustom Floor Designs was on hand to answer questions about any remodeling that would need to be done to accommodate the county offices. Mold remediation was introduced to begin the conversation."I haven't seen anything that is a large-scale problem at all," Bitter said. "In comparison, square-footage wise, we find much more mold than this in the average home we work in. I'm sure there are going to be some areas that have to be cleaned as we get power on and a new roof on."Other concerns were department-specific: a secure room should the county clerk's office need to hold an election and a secure room for the county treasurer's operations. Barton County District Court is actually a state agency that operates out of the courthouse. It, too, has unique needs, with two courtrooms currently in use on the third floor of the courthouse. Confidential hearings and jury trials further complicate the matter."A lot of our departments, we can just set up with making sure they have desks and partitions and they're good to go," Patzner said. "District court, obviously, they have some very specific needs with privacy and security."The transition is still several months away. Patzner will soon meet with representatives from Orazem &amp; Scalora Engineering to set up bids for the HVAC project. Awarding a winning bid will probably take place in January or February, but definitely after new commissioners Tricia Schlessiger, Duane Reif, and Donna Zimmerman are sworn in on Jan. 11, 2023. The county set aside $400,000 for the move in its 2023 budget.