Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;seasonally adjusted unemployment rate&nbsp;of 2.8 percent in October. This was an increase from 2.6% in September and a decrease from 2.9 percent in October 2021.

“The Kansas unemployment rate increased to 2.8 percent in October,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. "Even with this increase, the unemployment rate remains below pre-pandemic levels."

The jobless rate in Barton County rose slightly, from 2.4 percent in September to 2.5 percent in October. Most counties in the region saw a similar increase.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from September. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;Private sector jobs&nbsp;increased by 8,000 over the month, while government increased by 500.

“Kansas private sector job estimates showed strong growth over the month adding 8,000 jobs,” said Labor Economist Nathan Kessler. “The industries leading this growth include leisure and hospitality and professional and business services, both contributing 2,000 jobs. Over the year private sector jobs have increased by 3.4 percent.”

Since October 2021 Kansas'&nbsp;seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs&nbsp;have increased by 40,500. This change is due to an increase of 38,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,800 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668790962396.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;seasonally adjusted unemployment rate&nbsp;of 2.8 percent in October. This was an increase from 2.6% in September and a decrease from 2.9 percent in October 2021.“The Kansas unemployment rate increased to 2.8 percent in October,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. "Even with this increase, the unemployment rate remains below pre-pandemic levels."The jobless rate in Barton County rose slightly, from 2.4 percent in September to 2.5 percent in October. Most counties in the region saw a similar increase.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from September. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;Private sector jobs&nbsp;increased by 8,000 over the month, while government increased by 500.“Kansas private sector job estimates showed strong growth over the month adding 8,000 jobs,” said Labor Economist Nathan Kessler. “The industries leading this growth include leisure and hospitality and professional and business services, both contributing 2,000 jobs. Over the year private sector jobs have increased by 3.4 percent.”Since October 2021 Kansas'&nbsp;seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs&nbsp;have increased by 40,500. This change is due to an increase of 38,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,800 government jobs.

Unemployment rate up slightly in Barton County

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

After five years as head football coach at Larned High School, Tad Remy
announced his resignation at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Tad and his
wife recently welcomed their fourth child, and felt the timing was best to
pursue other goals for their family. 
“There are things we’ve wanted for us and for our family,” said Remy. “There’s
probably never a perfect time to pull the trigger, but we had some
conversations and felt like we needed to make the move now.” 
Remy graduated from Kansas State University in the fall of 2011, wrapping up
his student teaching in his pursuit to become a teacher and coach. He applied
for jobs at Moundridge, Hill City, West Franklin and Larned. 
“Larned was the first one to call me,” said Remy. “I accepted the job and went
to Larned right before spring break in 2012. I was introduced to A.B. Stokes,
who was just hired as the head coach at the time. I didn’t know if I was going
to be able to get onto the high school staff.” 
After talking with Stokes over football philosophy and what they valued in a
football program, Remy was hired to join the high school staff. Stokes would eventually leave, now the coach Bethel College, and Remy took over as Larned head coach in
2018. 
Remy posted a 14-31 record in his five years at Larned and qualified for the
playoffs three times. Spending 11 years overall with the Larned
program, telling players and community members the news was not easy. 
“I was running some errands Thursday morning, and I saw Luke Fischer (junior
running back this fall for the Indians) around the corner,” said Remy. “I
thought I was going to be good and stay composed. I saw Luke and knew it was
going to be tough.” 
Prior to telling the team, Remy walked down a different hallway and went to the
gym the backway through the laundry room to compose himself before relaying the
message. 
“It was tough,” said Remy. “I wanted the message to be my conversation and not
for people to hear it from other avenues. Ultimately, I had to do it for real
and look them in the eye.” 
Remy is completing a master’s degree in history and said his plans after the
school year are unknown, but he still wants to coach going forward. 
“Coaching kids and teaching kids is a big part of who I am,” said Remy. “Everyone
probably thinks I’m going to go to Bethel College and coach with Stokes, and I
have had conversations with him. Eventually, things will filter out there,
hopefully sooner rather than later. I’m excited for the future.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Listen below to the entire interview with Remy and Eagle Radio's Cole Reif.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668805988687.jpeg" alt="Tad Remy announced his resignation at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Remy has been with the Larned football program since 2012 and as the head coach for the past five years." />
 <figcaption>Tad Remy announced his resignation at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Remy has been with the Larned football program since 2012 and as the head coach for the past five years.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter five years as head football coach at Larned High School, Tad Remy
announced his resignation at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Tad and his
wife recently welcomed their fourth child, and felt the timing was best to
pursue other goals for their family. 
“There are things we’ve wanted for us and for our family,” said Remy. “There’s
probably never a perfect time to pull the trigger, but we had some
conversations and felt like we needed to make the move now.” 
Remy graduated from Kansas State University in the fall of 2011, wrapping up
his student teaching in his pursuit to become a teacher and coach. He applied
for jobs at Moundridge, Hill City, West Franklin and Larned. 
“Larned was the first one to call me,” said Remy. “I accepted the job and went
to Larned right before spring break in 2012. I was introduced to A.B. Stokes,
who was just hired as the head coach at the time. I didn’t know if I was going
to be able to get onto the high school staff.” 
After talking with Stokes over football philosophy and what they valued in a
football program, Remy was hired to join the high school staff. Stokes would eventually leave, now the coach Bethel College, and Remy took over as Larned head coach in
2018. 
Remy posted a 14-31 record in his five years at Larned and qualified for the
playoffs three times. Spending 11 years overall with the Larned
program, telling players and community members the news was not easy. 
“I was running some errands Thursday morning, and I saw Luke Fischer (junior
running back this fall for the Indians) around the corner,” said Remy. “I
thought I was going to be good and stay composed. I saw Luke and knew it was
going to be tough.” 
Prior to telling the team, Remy walked down a different hallway and went to the
gym the backway through the laundry room to compose himself before relaying the
message. 
“It was tough,” said Remy. “I wanted the message to be my conversation and not
for people to hear it from other avenues. Ultimately, I had to do it for real
and look them in the eye.” 
Remy is completing a master’s degree in history and said his plans after the
school year are unknown, but he still wants to coach going forward. 
“Coaching kids and teaching kids is a big part of who I am,” said Remy. “Everyone
probably thinks I’m going to go to Bethel College and coach with Stokes, and I
have had conversations with him. Eventually, things will filter out there,
hopefully sooner rather than later. I’m excited for the future.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Listen below to the entire interview with Remy and Eagle Radio's Cole Reif.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/ggeq1pwd/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

🎧Remy resigns as Larned football coach after five years

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The football official has a particular job and a particular way to do it. A rule is broken, a flag is thrown, and a penalty is assessed. It's not quite that easy out in the hunting fields of Kansas. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner was among those celebrating the opening weekend of pheasant and quail season. He described a disheartening amount of "unsportsmanlike conduct" out in the fields.

"These are all what I saw with my own two eyes in the last six days," he said. "That's just the little bit of time I was around. That's just what I witnessed. There was a lot of time I was not there. I don't know what happened beyond that. It's pretty frustrating."

Many instances involve hunters not respecting the rights of landowners or other hunters. Wagner said private means private, so cutting a corner through private land to access a deer stand or hunting spot on public land is still unacceptable. Likewise, standing on public land and shooting at game on private land is also trespassing.

Wagner reminded hunters to respect the space of other hunters. If someone else is on the land first, find another piece of land. "Blocking" is a term used when upland game birds are flushed toward a shooter. Never assume someone hunting on the land prior to your arrival wants your assistance.

"At the end of the road, you're coming up, and we're facing each other, and there are pheasants flying up between the two of us," he said. "That's what blocking is, and you shouldn't be doing that. Go back and observe. You're not helping anybody out when you're doing that."

As in other aspects of life, a little courtesy goes a long way. Be mindful that other hunters may not want to be approached by strangers with guns. Remember that not all dogs will get along. And the easy one: no littering.

"It seems like every year you're hearing more and more of these scenarios," Wagner said. "I don't know if it's just the disconnect people have with landowners, disrespect for the land, I don't know where this is coming from. But we need to strive to do better."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe football official has a particular job and a particular way to do it. A rule is broken, a flag is thrown, and a penalty is assessed. It's not quite that easy out in the hunting fields of Kansas. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner was among those celebrating the opening weekend of pheasant and quail season. He described a disheartening amount of "unsportsmanlike conduct" out in the fields."These are all what I saw with my own two eyes in the last six days," he said. "That's just the little bit of time I was around. That's just what I witnessed. There was a lot of time I was not there. I don't know what happened beyond that. It's pretty frustrating."Many instances involve hunters not respecting the rights of landowners or other hunters. Wagner said private means private, so cutting a corner through private land to access a deer stand or hunting spot on public land is still unacceptable. Likewise, standing on public land and shooting at game on private land is also trespassing.Wagner reminded hunters to respect the space of other hunters. If someone else is on the land first, find another piece of land. "Blocking" is a term used when upland game birds are flushed toward a shooter. Never assume someone hunting on the land prior to your arrival wants your assistance."At the end of the road, you're coming up, and we're facing each other, and there are pheasants flying up between the two of us," he said. "That's what blocking is, and you shouldn't be doing that. Go back and observe. You're not helping anybody out when you're doing that."As in other aspects of life, a little courtesy goes a long way. Be mindful that other hunters may not want to be approached by strangers with guns. Remember that not all dogs will get along. And the easy one: no littering."It seems like every year you're hearing more and more of these scenarios," Wagner said. "I don't know if it's just the disconnect people have with landowners, disrespect for the land, I don't know where this is coming from. But we need to strive to do better."

Unsportsmanlike conduct: Some of the 'fouls' of upland bird hunting

The City of Great Bend has hired Surveying and Mapping, LLC to survey and map the city’s stormwater collection system. This will consist of locating and surveying stormwater intakes, utility access holes and other features with global positioning system (GPS) equipment. In addition to this, Mayer Specialty Services is to televise select storm sewer pipes.

This work will be ongoing from December 2022 with completion in May 2023, unforeseen circumstances pending. You may notice employees of SAM, Mayer or the City of Great Bend working in your neighborhood, possibly in easements and any area that has a stormwater asset.

The city apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Sreehitha Kadiyala, Assistant City Engineer, (620) 793-4150 skadiyala@greatbendks.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624382349838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Great Bend has hired Surveying and Mapping, LLC to survey and map the city’s stormwater collection system. This will consist of locating and surveying stormwater intakes, utility access holes and other features with global positioning system (GPS) equipment. In addition to this, Mayer Specialty Services is to televise select storm sewer pipes.This work will be ongoing from December 2022 with completion in May 2023, unforeseen circumstances pending. You may notice employees of SAM, Mayer or the City of Great Bend working in your neighborhood, possibly in easements and any area that has a stormwater asset.The city apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your patience.If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Sreehitha Kadiyala, Assistant City Engineer, (620) 793-4150 skadiyala@greatbendks.net.

Stormwater survey and assessment slated to start in Great Bend

It’s been just over two weeks with Chris Umphres as the executive
director at the Great Bend Recreation Commission, to which Umphres states, “so
far so good.” 

Umphres took over as director Nov. 1 following
the retirement of Diann Henderson. Henderson worked with the Recreation
Commission for more than 40 years and was the director since 2006. 
Umphres complimented the staff at this week’s board meeting, and Enrichment
Director Garet Fitzpatrick was pleased how everything kept rolling during the transition. "Chris has got some things done that we've talked about doing for a while," said Fitzpatrick. "Over at the Activity Center, it's always so dark in the back. Hauling trash back there, some staff didn't feel safe. We were able to get lighting back there quickly. We also have some other advertising things coming up." 
Umphres agreed to a three-year contract as the director. Previously serving as
the assistant superintendent, Umphres is going into year 17 with the Recreation
Commission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668720465618.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Recreation Commission board meeting." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Recreation Commission board meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIt’s been just over two weeks with Chris Umphres as the executive
director at the Great Bend Recreation Commission, to which Umphres states, “so
far so good.” Umphres took over as director Nov. 1 following
the retirement of Diann Henderson. Henderson worked with the Recreation
Commission for more than 40 years and was the director since 2006. 
Umphres complimented the staff at this week’s board meeting, and Enrichment
Director Garet Fitzpatrick was pleased how everything kept rolling during the transition. "Chris has got some things done that we've talked about doing for a while," said Fitzpatrick. "Over at the Activity Center, it's always so dark in the back. Hauling trash back there, some staff didn't feel safe. We were able to get lighting back there quickly. We also have some other advertising things coming up." 
Umphres agreed to a three-year contract as the director. Previously serving as
the assistant superintendent, Umphres is going into year 17 with the Recreation
Commission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Umphres: Two weeks as GBRC director, ‘So far, so good’ 

Those flu bugs are nasty this year, and with so many families spending time together over

the holidays, it is likely that you or someone close to you will catch it. The information that crosses my desk about avoiding contagious illnesses is consistent. WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN. Washing your hands at every step in the food preparation process will certainly help from spreading those germs. Whenever you touch your face or hair, or after sneezing or coughing into your hand you will want to wash. Reminding children to wash up after they have been playing outside, or with the family pet is another key.

The correct way to wash hands is to wet them with warm water, lather the soap and rinse; a process that should take around 20 seconds. Make sure you wash the cuticle area and around jewelry especially well. Keep a clean hand towel near every sink or consider switching to paper towels that can be disposed of. The use of hand sanitizers may sound like a good idea but when we have used our “glow germ” activity we found lots of germs survive the use of such cleansers. The use of warm water and soap works best.

Of course there are some other things you can do to avoid becoming ill. Getting plenty of rest and eating right, including lots of fruits and vegetables that are chock full of immune boosting vitamins is a great idea. Make time in your day for some quiet time to reflect and relax. Keeping the stress level down will help promote health. Limit visits with people who have a compromised immune system, especially if you have any symptoms of illness.

Have a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season, beginning with Thanksgiving this week!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Those flu bugs are nasty this year, and with so many families spending time together overthe holidays, it is likely that you or someone close to you will catch it. The information that crosses my desk about avoiding contagious illnesses is consistent. WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN. Washing your hands at every step in the food preparation process will certainly help from spreading those germs. Whenever you touch your face or hair, or after sneezing or coughing into your hand you will want to wash. Reminding children to wash up after they have been playing outside, or with the family pet is another key.The correct way to wash hands is to wet them with warm water, lather the soap and rinse; a process that should take around 20 seconds. Make sure you wash the cuticle area and around jewelry especially well. Keep a clean hand towel near every sink or consider switching to paper towels that can be disposed of. The use of hand sanitizers may sound like a good idea but when we have used our “glow germ” activity we found lots of germs survive the use of such cleansers. The use of warm water and soap works best.Of course there are some other things you can do to avoid becoming ill. Getting plenty of rest and eating right, including lots of fruits and vegetables that are chock full of immune boosting vitamins is a great idea. Make time in your day for some quiet time to reflect and relax. Keeping the stress level down will help promote health. Limit visits with people who have a compromised immune system, especially if you have any symptoms of illness.Have a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season, beginning with Thanksgiving this week!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KRUG: Spread joy, not germs during the holiday season

The South West Kansas Music Educators Association named Don Regehr as the 2022 Outstanding Middle School Music Educator at their annual Middle School &amp; High School Festival held on Nov. 5 in Dodge City.

The festival featured performances from middle school and high school students from across the state, workshops with notable clinicians, and several special recognitions.

“Mr. Regehr is passionate about band and its positive impact on students,” said David Reiser, principal at Great Bend Middle School. “His bands are always well prepared and perform at the highest levels of achievement. I am so excited that Mr. Regehr is being acknowledged by his colleagues in Kansas for his accomplishments and focus on excellence in band performances.”

Regehr was recognized for his accomplishment at GBMS’s first all school Pep Assembly held on Wednesday, Nov. 16.

Don Regehr received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Bethany College. He has taught 5-12 band, as well as some K-6 general music for 37 years. He has taught in Hill City, Central of Burden district, Great Bend, and Ellinwood. Currently he is in his seventh year serving as the director at Great Bend Middle School, Park Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, and as the assistant for Great Bend High School band and jazz band. 

Throughout these positions, he has not only prepared and directed many concerts, but has also assisted many students as they have worked on solos and ensembles for festivals and honor band auditions. 

Regehr serves as an organist for his church. He also participates in the Great Bend City Band, the Barton County Prairie Winds Ensemble and the “Old Tyme Town Band” on French horn and trumpet. He has previously served as the Middle Level chair for the SWKMEA honor band and as President of the Phi Beta Mu band director fraternity. He is a member of KMEA, NAfME, KBA, KNEA, Phi Beta Mu, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668712434673.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The South West Kansas Music Educators Association named Don Regehr as the 2022 Outstanding Middle School Music Educator at their annual Middle School &amp; High School Festival held on Nov. 5 in Dodge City.The festival featured performances from middle school and high school students from across the state, workshops with notable clinicians, and several special recognitions.“Mr. Regehr is passionate about band and its positive impact on students,” said David Reiser, principal at Great Bend Middle School. “His bands are always well prepared and perform at the highest levels of achievement. I am so excited that Mr. Regehr is being acknowledged by his colleagues in Kansas for his accomplishments and focus on excellence in band performances.”Regehr was recognized for his accomplishment at GBMS’s first all school Pep Assembly held on Wednesday, Nov. 16.Don Regehr received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Bethany College. He has taught 5-12 band, as well as some K-6 general music for 37 years. He has taught in Hill City, Central of Burden district, Great Bend, and Ellinwood. Currently he is in his seventh year serving as the director at Great Bend Middle School, Park Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, and as the assistant for Great Bend High School band and jazz band. Throughout these positions, he has not only prepared and directed many concerts, but has also assisted many students as they have worked on solos and ensembles for festivals and honor band auditions. Regehr serves as an organist for his church. He also participates in the Great Bend City Band, the Barton County Prairie Winds Ensemble and the “Old Tyme Town Band” on French horn and trumpet. He has previously served as the Middle Level chair for the SWKMEA honor band and as President of the Phi Beta Mu band director fraternity. He is a member of KMEA, NAfME, KBA, KNEA, Phi Beta Mu, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Great Bend Middle School's Regehr earns SWKMEA honor

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6ODSqp4YVT0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever: Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst

When Steve Haulmark was introduced as the next police chief at the Great
Bend Police Department in January 2021, he mentioned he wanted to bring an
increased presence of community engagement. Haulmark sought ways to speak and
meet with groups and create more positive interactions with law enforcement. 
Partnering with the local Pizza Hut restaurants, the police department is
conducting a “Pizza Thursdays” where each week officers visit a grade school in
town to have lunch with students. "The teachers in each class get to recommend one student who has been doing a great job," said Haulmark. "We'll take a few cops and have lunch and talk with those kids. We just get to interact with them and build those relationships." 
The police department approached Pizza Hut to provide the food each week.
Haulmark said “Pizza Thursdays” will be an ongoing program that will rotate
through the different elementary schools.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668722934893.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark pictured interacting with elementary students during the police department's "Pizza Thursdays" initiative." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark pictured interacting with elementary students during the police department's "Pizza Thursdays" initiative.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen Steve Haulmark was introduced as the next police chief at the Great
Bend Police Department in January 2021, he mentioned he wanted to bring an
increased presence of community engagement. Haulmark sought ways to speak and
meet with groups and create more positive interactions with law enforcement. 
Partnering with the local Pizza Hut restaurants, the police department is
conducting a “Pizza Thursdays” where each week officers visit a grade school in
town to have lunch with students. "The teachers in each class get to recommend one student who has been doing a great job," said Haulmark. "We'll take a few cops and have lunch and talk with those kids. We just get to interact with them and build those relationships." 
The police department approached Pizza Hut to provide the food each week.
Haulmark said “Pizza Thursdays” will be an ongoing program that will rotate
through the different elementary schools.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668723032045.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668723041381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668722914854.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668722895279.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend Police building relationships with ‘Pizza Thursdays’

The I-35 bridge collapse in Minneapolis in 2007 turned the government's attention to bridge health. A crack found in a major bridge over the Mississippi River near Memphis in 2021 did not help matters. Wednesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman got approval from the commission to move forward with 372 bridge inspections slated for March 2023.

"If you remember the big bridge collapse in Minneapolis, that really spurred the federal government to say we need to be looking at our bridges," McManaman said. "That really pushed along some of this stuff."

Three contractors from around Kansas put in bids for the work, with a low offer of $29,760, and a high bid of $35,3450. In the middle, Ellsworth-based Kirkham Michael has done the county bridge inspections for nearly two decades. They won the bid at $33,480.

"Kirkhan Michael has worked really well," said McManaman. "They have familiarity with our bridges. Any time we have an issue that comes up, we can get with them. They've been very generous about sending somebody out to meet with us to take a look at a problem, and just being local, being out of Ellsworth, there's some value there, I believe."

Commissioner Jennifer Schartz asked if the bridge inspections were really necessary every two years. "I'm all about safety, and I know this probably really isn't a local county issue as much as it is a state, but is every two years really necessary?" she asked. "Even if they go to every three years, it would save the county $33,000 every three years."

McManaman said changes could be coming to the laws allowing inspections every three of four years. He said that would make sense for many of the county bridges.

"We have a lot of bridges out there that are either relatively new, or they're on roads that don't get salt, and they're in really good shape," he said. "Like Commissioner Schartz said, it doesn't make a lot of sense to have to inspect them every two years."

During an inspection, officials look at various elements of a bridge, including the substructure that holds the bridge up, the deck itself, and safety features around the bridge like guardrails, signing, and the approach. All the elements are visually rated on a scale of 1-10, with bridges graded at 4 or lower likely facing substantial repair or replacement. It will take Kirkham Michael approximately three weeks to inspect all 372 county bridges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646939241630.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe I-35 bridge collapse in Minneapolis in 2007 turned the government's attention to bridge health. A crack found in a major bridge over the Mississippi River near Memphis in 2021 did not help matters. Wednesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman got approval from the commission to move forward with 372 bridge inspections slated for March 2023."If you remember the big bridge collapse in Minneapolis, that really spurred the federal government to say we need to be looking at our bridges," McManaman said. "That really pushed along some of this stuff."Three contractors from around Kansas put in bids for the work, with a low offer of $29,760, and a high bid of $35,3450. In the middle, Ellsworth-based Kirkham Michael has done the county bridge inspections for nearly two decades. They won the bid at $33,480."Kirkhan Michael has worked really well," said McManaman. "They have familiarity with our bridges. Any time we have an issue that comes up, we can get with them. They've been very generous about sending somebody out to meet with us to take a look at a problem, and just being local, being out of Ellsworth, there's some value there, I believe."Commissioner Jennifer Schartz asked if the bridge inspections were really necessary every two years. "I'm all about safety, and I know this probably really isn't a local county issue as much as it is a state, but is every two years really necessary?" she asked. "Even if they go to every three years, it would save the county $33,000 every three years."McManaman said changes could be coming to the laws allowing inspections every three of four years. He said that would make sense for many of the county bridges."We have a lot of bridges out there that are either relatively new, or they're on roads that don't get salt, and they're in really good shape," he said. "Like Commissioner Schartz said, it doesn't make a lot of sense to have to inspect them every two years."During an inspection, officials look at various elements of a bridge, including the substructure that holds the bridge up, the deck itself, and safety features around the bridge like guardrails, signing, and the approach. All the elements are visually rated on a scale of 1-10, with bridges graded at 4 or lower likely facing substantial repair or replacement. It will take Kirkham Michael approximately three weeks to inspect all 372 county bridges.

Kirkham Michael selected to do Barton bridge inspections in March

The Pawnee County EMS will be hosting a scenario-based training event around the community of Larned on Saturday, Nov. 19 form 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Citizens will see increased ambulance activity during this time and maybe even an ambulance near a church, public park or a neighbor's house.

Pawnee County EMS wants to emphasize to community members that it is only training and not to be alarmed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668789164957.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Pawnee County EMS will be hosting a scenario-based training event around the community of Larned on Saturday, Nov. 19 form 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.Citizens will see increased ambulance activity during this time and maybe even an ambulance near a church, public park or a neighbor's house.Pawnee County EMS wants to emphasize to community members that it is only training and not to be alarmed.

Pawnee Co. EMS hosting training scenario Saturday

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (11/17) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:19 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway &amp; US 281
Highway in Hoisington. 
 
At 11:32 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1100 block of NW 40 Avenue
in Hoisington. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:26 p.m. an accident was reported at 17th &amp; McKinley. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 4:24 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1007 NW 220 Road in Galatia. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at SE 60 Avenue &amp; E. US 56
Highway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:47 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 125 on N. US 281 Highway in
Hoisington. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 9:15 p.m. a narcotics violation was reported at MM 220 on E. US 56 Highway. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:18 p.m. the K-9 was called out at MM 220 on E. US 56 Highway.

Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (11/17)

Breathing Problems At 1:56 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 717 Coolidge Street Apt. 5.

At 10:30 a.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 10th &amp; Grant.

At 11:20 a.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton Street.

At 12:23 p.m. Luna Henri reported a parking complaint at 2800 Adams Street.

At 1:10 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2112 Lincoln Street.

At 3:26 p.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 17th &amp; McKinley.

At 3:36 p.m. James Rabb was arrested for a narcotics violation in the 2500 block of 10th Street.

At 3:40 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop in the 2500 block of 10th Street.

At 7:14 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street.

At 7:24 p.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 1430 11th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (11/17) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:19 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at W. K-4 Highway &amp; US 281
Highway in Hoisington. 
 
At 11:32 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1100 block of NW 40 Avenue
in Hoisington. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 3:26 p.m. an accident was reported at 17th &amp; McKinley. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 4:24 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1007 NW 220 Road in Galatia. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at SE 60 Avenue &amp; E. US 56
Highway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:47 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 125 on N. US 281 Highway in
Hoisington. 
 
Narcotics Violation 
 
At 9:15 p.m. a narcotics violation was reported at MM 220 on E. US 56 Highway. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:18 p.m. the K-9 was called out at MM 220 on E. US 56 Highway.Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (11/17)Breathing Problems At 1:56 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 717 Coolidge Street Apt. 5.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:30 a.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 10th &amp; Grant.At 11:20 a.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton Street.Parking ComplaintAt 12:23 p.m. Luna Henri reported a parking complaint at 2800 Adams Street.Diabetic ProblemsAt 1:10 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2112 Lincoln Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:26 p.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 17th &amp; McKinley.Narcotics ViolationAt 3:36 p.m. James Rabb was arrested for a narcotics violation in the 2500 block of 10th Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:40 p.m. K-9 Menta was utilized on a traffic stop in the 2500 block of 10th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:14 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street.At 7:24 p.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported at 1430 11th Street.

Cop Shop (11/17)

11/17 BOOKED: James Raab on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Signal, and No Proof of Insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Shirley Burrow on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin or Methamphetamine, no bond information.

BOOKED: Francesca Farmer on Harlan County (Neb.) District Court warrant for Issuing a bad Check, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of a PFA, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: William Blake on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Nicholas Hicks on two Barton County District Court warrants, to KDOC.

RELEASED: Alexander Anderson, to McPherson County.

RELEASED: Jeffery Renfro on Barton County District Court warrant, to McPherson County.

RELEASED: Dylan Rogers-Gowdy on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, per order of the court.

RELEASED: Laveina White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, per order of the court.

RELEASED: Michael Ringo, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, on $20,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Sammy Jahay on Barton County District Court cases for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District Court case for Attempted Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Assault, on $40,000 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/17 BOOKED: James Raab on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Signal, and No Proof of Insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Steven Merica on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Shirley Burrow on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin or Methamphetamine, no bond information.BOOKED: Francesca Farmer on Harlan County (Neb.) District Court warrant for Issuing a bad Check, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of a PFA, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: William Blake on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Nicholas Hicks on two Barton County District Court warrants, to KDOC.RELEASED: Alexander Anderson, to McPherson County.RELEASED: Jeffery Renfro on Barton County District Court warrant, to McPherson County.RELEASED: Dylan Rogers-Gowdy on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, per order of the court.RELEASED: Laveina White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, per order of the court.RELEASED: Michael Ringo, Jr., on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, on $20,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Sammy Jahay on Barton County District Court cases for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Justin Merritt on Barton County District Court case for Attempted Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Assault, on $40,000 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (11/17)

When Joe Koch’s son was still in high school and playing sports, his
wife wanted to design her own Larned Indian shirts to support their son. That
was nearly two years ago, and the Koch’s desire to create their own designs
continued to grow by offering custom embroidery and screen printing on
t-shirts. &nbsp;

Operating the side gig from inside their home, the Kochs have decided
to open a brick-and-mortar store in Larned. 
"We were thinking on how we could grow," said Koch. "We're not going to grow anymore in the house. Let's try something new and add to our business to see if we can grow even bigger."

Along with custom designs and embroidery, Koch’s new storefront will include a
western boutique. The business, Koch’s Kustoms Double K Boutique, plans to open
next week at 423 Broadway. 
"The building was a bar or a grill for so many years and never worked," said Koch. "When it came available, I jumped on it. I felt it was time for the building to change to something other than a bar."

Koch joked that after a lot of cleaning they were finally able to remove the grease smell from the facility. 
Koch’s Kustoms plans to do a soft opening the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 25 and will have most of their inventory in stock.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668717994221.jpeg" alt="Koch's Kustoms Double K Boutique will have a soft opening Nov. 25 at 423 Broadway in Larned." />
 <figcaption>Koch's Kustoms Double K Boutique will have a soft opening Nov. 25 at 423 Broadway in Larned.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen Joe Koch’s son was still in high school and playing sports, his
wife wanted to design her own Larned Indian shirts to support their son. That
was nearly two years ago, and the Koch’s desire to create their own designs
continued to grow by offering custom embroidery and screen printing on
t-shirts. &nbsp;Operating the side gig from inside their home, the Kochs have decided
to open a brick-and-mortar store in Larned. 
"We were thinking on how we could grow," said Koch. "We're not going to grow anymore in the house. Let's try something new and add to our business to see if we can grow even bigger."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668718398562.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Along with custom designs and embroidery, Koch’s new storefront will include a
western boutique. The business, Koch’s Kustoms Double K Boutique, plans to open
next week at 423 Broadway. 
"The building was a bar or a grill for so many years and never worked," said Koch. "When it came available, I jumped on it. I felt it was time for the building to change to something other than a bar."Koch joked that after a lot of cleaning they were finally able to remove the grease smell from the facility. 
Koch’s Kustoms plans to do a soft opening the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 25 and will have most of their inventory in stock.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668718416714.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

New embroidery and western boutique shop opening in Larned

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 31. North wind 8 to 13 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 17. West southwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 40. Northwest wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 19. Light and variable wind becoming south southwest 5 to 9 mph in the evening.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 53. South southwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 24.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 55.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 54.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 52.

Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31.

Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 31. North wind 8 to 13 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 17. West southwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 40. Northwest wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 19. Light and variable wind becoming south southwest 5 to 9 mph in the evening.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 53. South southwest wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 24.Monday Sunny, with a high near 55.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 54.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 52.Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31.Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's Weather

In 1993, Alabama's hit song reminded everyone there are "Angels Among Us." On the evening of Oct. 8, an accidental hero was among the shoppers at the Great Bend Walmart. Twenty-nine-year-old Eric Keller just happened to be at the back of the store when a 23-month-old toddler suffered a life-threatening seizure. Keller sprang into action, using CPR to save the little girl's life. Thursday evening, he was recognized by the American Red Cross with a Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action.

"Emergencies can happen at any time," said Red Cross Executive Director Jane Blocher, who drove from Lawrence to present the award. "In a Walmart, in a parking lot, at a wedding, on a hot day at the swimming pool, and even inside your own home. But regardless of where they happen, emergency situations have one thing in common: a crowd of people standing around, staring at someone in distress and wondering who should do something and then trying to remember what to do. That is until a hero emerges from the crowd."

Keller originally told his story in an effort to share the importance of learning CPR and using it in an emergency. Over the past month, Keller has applied to assist on more Red Cross missions.

"It's really opened some doors," he said. "I actually applied for the Volunteer Connection for Red Cross and started that. I think Fort Myers (Fla.) is where I'd like to go and put in some work there, but close to home or anywhere that needs it. That's the direction I'd like to take."

For Thursday's ceremony, Keller was reunited with Nova Gomez, who is now two years old, and her mother, Lacy Rodriguez, who has since completed her own CPR certification classes. The Barton County 911 dispatcher who handled the original call also attended to meet all the parties involved.

Blocher took special note of the location of the ceremony, given the history of the Red Cross. "To give an award like this in the county that was named after our beloved founder, Clara Barton, is especially meaningful," she said. "She was a nurse that tended to the wounds of soldiers on the battlefield of the Civil War, giving first aid and other assistance. I think she's shining down on Eric."

The American Red Cross began giving out Life Saving Awards in 1911. The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action was created more than 70 years ago, and is awarded to individuals who step up in times of emergency. Since 2018, more than 2,030 awards have been handed out worldwide. Actions behind those awards have saved 1,032 lives. Blocher was pleased to add one more to that number Thursday night.

"We have so many heroes that walk among us every day that we don't know about," she said. "Hopefully, his actions will inspire others to take the lifesaving training. As I've said before, you don't really know when you can ever put that training into action, but knowing you're armed with those critical skills that can help save a life, it's so important."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668737049356.jpeg" alt="Eric Keller received the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action in a ceremony Thursday night. Keller was joined by, from left: Great Bend Walmart Store Manager Darin Dreiling, Lacy Rodriguez, Nova, and Red Cross Executive Director Jane Blocher." />
 <figcaption>Eric Keller received the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action in a ceremony Thursday night. Keller was joined by, from left: Great Bend Walmart Store Manager Darin Dreiling, Lacy Rodriguez, Nova, and Red Cross Executive Director Jane Blocher.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn 1993, Alabama's hit song reminded everyone there are "Angels Among Us." On the evening of Oct. 8, an accidental hero was among the shoppers at the Great Bend Walmart. Twenty-nine-year-old Eric Keller just happened to be at the back of the store when a 23-month-old toddler suffered a life-threatening seizure. Keller sprang into action, using CPR to save the little girl's life. Thursday evening, he was recognized by the American Red Cross with a Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action."Emergencies can happen at any time," said Red Cross Executive Director Jane Blocher, who drove from Lawrence to present the award. "In a Walmart, in a parking lot, at a wedding, on a hot day at the swimming pool, and even inside your own home. But regardless of where they happen, emergency situations have one thing in common: a crowd of people standing around, staring at someone in distress and wondering who should do something and then trying to remember what to do. That is until a hero emerges from the crowd."Keller originally told his story in an effort to share the importance of learning CPR and using it in an emergency. Over the past month, Keller has applied to assist on more Red Cross missions."It's really opened some doors," he said. "I actually applied for the Volunteer Connection for Red Cross and started that. I think Fort Myers (Fla.) is where I'd like to go and put in some work there, but close to home or anywhere that needs it. That's the direction I'd like to take."For Thursday's ceremony, Keller was reunited with Nova Gomez, who is now two years old, and her mother, Lacy Rodriguez, who has since completed her own CPR certification classes. The Barton County 911 dispatcher who handled the original call also attended to meet all the parties involved.Blocher took special note of the location of the ceremony, given the history of the Red Cross. "To give an award like this in the county that was named after our beloved founder, Clara Barton, is especially meaningful," she said. "She was a nurse that tended to the wounds of soldiers on the battlefield of the Civil War, giving first aid and other assistance. I think she's shining down on Eric."The American Red Cross began giving out Life Saving Awards in 1911. The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action was created more than 70 years ago, and is awarded to individuals who step up in times of emergency. Since 2018, more than 2,030 awards have been handed out worldwide. Actions behind those awards have saved 1,032 lives. Blocher was pleased to add one more to that number Thursday night."We have so many heroes that walk among us every day that we don't know about," she said. "Hopefully, his actions will inspire others to take the lifesaving training. As I've said before, you don't really know when you can ever put that training into action, but knowing you're armed with those critical skills that can help save a life, it's so important."

Keller honored by Red Cross for life-saving actions at Great Bend Walmart

RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2022 Peterbilt straight truck driven by Anthony Joseph Moshier, 23, Hoisington, was northbound on 181st Street 3.9 miles west of the U.S. 40 and U.S. 281 Junction and stopped at the railroad crossing.

As the truck began moving forward, the driver did not see the westbound train.&nbsp; The train collided with the truck.&nbsp; The truck came to rest in the southwest corner of the crossing where it caught fire and was completely destroyed.

EMS transported Moshier to Russell Regional Medical Center.  There were no injuries on the train. Moshier was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668735431538.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2022 Peterbilt straight truck driven by Anthony Joseph Moshier, 23, Hoisington, was northbound on 181st Street 3.9 miles west of the U.S. 40 and U.S. 281 Junction and stopped at the railroad crossing.As the truck began moving forward, the driver did not see the westbound train.&nbsp; The train collided with the truck.&nbsp; The truck came to rest in the southwest corner of the crossing where it caught fire and was completely destroyed.EMS transported Moshier to Russell Regional Medical Center. There were no injuries on the train. Moshier was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Hoisington man hospitalized after train, truck crash and fire

Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. announced today that its Sharing Success Fund, managed by the Scott Community Foundation, has awarded a $1,000 grant to the United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK).

UWCK does work in the fields of health, education, and financial stability – three core tenets that are the building blocks for a successful community. They do this in two different ways, first, through funding 22 Community Partners. Approximately half of the money raised goes to fellow non-profits who provide direct services to clients. The second is through Community Impact Programs.

Sharing Success grant funds awarded will be used to help underwrite a community impact program called Laundry Love in Great Bend. The mission of Laundry Love is to wash the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and individuals and help with the physical and emotional strain that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in our community. The goal for this is not just to provide assistance with laundry but also make connections and building relationships with those in need.

The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Wheatland Electric and CoBank have each contributed $10,000 this again year to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, the Sharing Success Fund has made $125,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across Wheatland’s service territory.

Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668704748382.jpeg" alt="Wheatland Electric member services and key accounts manager Mary Hoisington (left) presents a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to Charell Owings (right), executive director of the United Way of Central Kansas. Grant funds will be used to support the community impact project, Laundry Love." />
 <figcaption>Wheatland Electric member services and key accounts manager Mary Hoisington (left) presents a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to Charell Owings (right), executive director of the United Way of Central Kansas. Grant funds will be used to support the community impact project, Laundry Love.</figcaption>
 </figure>Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. announced today that its Sharing Success Fund, managed by the Scott Community Foundation, has awarded a $1,000 grant to the United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK).UWCK does work in the fields of health, education, and financial stability – three core tenets that are the building blocks for a successful community. They do this in two different ways, first, through funding 22 Community Partners. Approximately half of the money raised goes to fellow non-profits who provide direct services to clients. The second is through Community Impact Programs.Sharing Success grant funds awarded will be used to help underwrite a community impact program called Laundry Love in Great Bend. The mission of Laundry Love is to wash the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and individuals and help with the physical and emotional strain that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in our community. The goal for this is not just to provide assistance with laundry but also make connections and building relationships with those in need.The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Wheatland Electric and CoBank have each contributed $10,000 this again year to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, the Sharing Success Fund has made $125,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across Wheatland’s service territory.Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.

United Way of Central Kansas receives $1,000 grant from Wheatland Electric

While triple-digit yields may have seemed impossible during this year’s drought, Kansas wheat producers exemplified how the right combination of genetics, management and luck pay off with the winning entries in the 2022 National Wheat Yield Contest. National and state winners were recently released by the National Wheat Foundation, which has organized the competition for the past seven years.

“The National Wheat Yield Contest offers producers a chance to learn from counterparts from across the country how to maximize their management to improve yields and quality,” said Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. “Kansas wheat producers continually demonstrate they are up to the challenge by adopting new practices that utilize the full potential of top-of-the-line wheat genetics.”

The national contest was split into winter wheat and spring wheat and then divided into dryland and irrigated production. Contestants had to prove their wheat would grade at levels 1 or 2 to compete.

In the dryland winter wheat category, Brett Oelke from Hoxie took the top Kansas spot with an entry of WestBred Grainfield that yielded 106.34 bushels per acre. The entry also earned Oelke fifth place nationally for percentage increase over the county average.

As one of the 24 national winners, Oelke is shipping in a grain sample that will be analyzed for additional quality parameters. If the winning samples meet all the specified “customer-desired” quality targets, producers will receive a $500 award. In addition, national winners receive a trip to the Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida, in March 2023 and will be recognized at the National Wheat Foundation’s Winner’s Reception.

Hays producers John and Matt Grabbe took second and third place in Kansas with entries of WestBred WB4422 which yielded 103.24 bushels per acre, and WestBred WB4792 which yielded 97.88 bushels per acre, respectively.

In the irrigated winter wheat category, David Leonard from Goodland placed first in the state with an entry of PlainsGold Langin that yielded 119.57 bushels per acre. Matt Brack from Hutchinson earned second with an entry of WestBred WB4401 that yielded 103.44 bushels per acre.

“We know that genetics, environment and management all need to be just right for wheat to thrive, and we are proud to see so many wheat growers continue to reach for higher and better yields, while also growing wheat that customers desire,” said Joe Kejr, National Wheat Foundation Chair and Kansas producer, in a national release.

The 2022 sponsors for the National Wheat Yield Contest included WestBred, John Deere, BASF, The McGregor Company, U.S. Wheat Associates, AgriMaXX, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, CoAxium, UPL, Ardent Mills, PlainsGold, Mennel, Dyna-Gro, Ohio Corn and Wheat, Croplan, Miller Milling, GrainCraft, Michigan Wheat, GrainSense, Elevate Ag, FarmLogs, Grow Pro

Genetics, Northern Crops Institute, and the North Dakota Mill and Elevator. The official publication of the contest is DTN/Progressive Farmer.

Follow Kansas Wheat in the coming weeks to learn more about the Kansas winners and their tips and tricks for success this year. Learn more about the National Wheat Yield Contest at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yk40bj005mdk4PIaDYc69T1Lj1IwxpfefB_-FrHzjp94jISb8nN3OLY_LfPbeeHb3o1xIC7mezmuTYZPCcdkGR1N7GCV9Xl-zvM6nl5XU6g5PS5QoiQCM_IJ5P74B5LrYKBH7zTSwAx2i8fn15NdizlERq7Ak9vr4LvsuLCZSx8=&amp;c=dh7oLQSMuORTJiOZie5NS5RVvBoqQj0p4SO9cFQI9519fyaXTKgxgA==&amp;ch=tgb0b2e96BzLkEcBA73fV4PKedaIwHrIlfyUEwXzgP6nYzQum0lTHw==" target="_blank">http://yieldcontest.wheatfoundation.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662500196293.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While triple-digit yields may have seemed impossible during this year’s drought, Kansas wheat producers exemplified how the right combination of genetics, management and luck pay off with the winning entries in the 2022 National Wheat Yield Contest. National and state winners were recently released by the National Wheat Foundation, which has organized the competition for the past seven years.“The National Wheat Yield Contest offers producers a chance to learn from counterparts from across the country how to maximize their management to improve yields and quality,” said Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. “Kansas wheat producers continually demonstrate they are up to the challenge by adopting new practices that utilize the full potential of top-of-the-line wheat genetics.”The national contest was split into winter wheat and spring wheat and then divided into dryland and irrigated production. Contestants had to prove their wheat would grade at levels 1 or 2 to compete.In the dryland winter wheat category, Brett Oelke from Hoxie took the top Kansas spot with an entry of WestBred Grainfield that yielded 106.34 bushels per acre. The entry also earned Oelke fifth place nationally for percentage increase over the county average.As one of the 24 national winners, Oelke is shipping in a grain sample that will be analyzed for additional quality parameters. If the winning samples meet all the specified “customer-desired” quality targets, producers will receive a $500 award. In addition, national winners receive a trip to the Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida, in March 2023 and will be recognized at the National Wheat Foundation’s Winner’s Reception.Hays producers John and Matt Grabbe took second and third place in Kansas with entries of WestBred WB4422 which yielded 103.24 bushels per acre, and WestBred WB4792 which yielded 97.88 bushels per acre, respectively.In the irrigated winter wheat category, David Leonard from Goodland placed first in the state with an entry of PlainsGold Langin that yielded 119.57 bushels per acre. Matt Brack from Hutchinson earned second with an entry of WestBred WB4401 that yielded 103.44 bushels per acre.“We know that genetics, environment and management all need to be just right for wheat to thrive, and we are proud to see so many wheat growers continue to reach for higher and better yields, while also growing wheat that customers desire,” said Joe Kejr, National Wheat Foundation Chair and Kansas producer, in a national release.The 2022 sponsors for the National Wheat Yield Contest included WestBred, John Deere, BASF, The McGregor Company, U.S. Wheat Associates, AgriMaXX, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, CoAxium, UPL, Ardent Mills, PlainsGold, Mennel, Dyna-Gro, Ohio Corn and Wheat, Croplan, Miller Milling, GrainCraft, Michigan Wheat, GrainSense, Elevate Ag, FarmLogs, Grow ProGenetics, Northern Crops Institute, and the North Dakota Mill and Elevator. The official publication of the contest is DTN/Progressive Farmer.Follow Kansas Wheat in the coming weeks to learn more about the Kansas winners and their tips and tricks for success this year. Learn more about the National Wheat Yield Contest at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yk40bj005mdk4PIaDYc69T1Lj1IwxpfefB_-FrHzjp94jISb8nN3OLY_LfPbeeHb3o1xIC7mezmuTYZPCcdkGR1N7GCV9Xl-zvM6nl5XU6g5PS5QoiQCM_IJ5P74B5LrYKBH7zTSwAx2i8fn15NdizlERq7Ak9vr4LvsuLCZSx8=&amp;c=dh7oLQSMuORTJiOZie5NS5RVvBoqQj0p4SO9cFQI9519fyaXTKgxgA==&amp;ch=tgb0b2e96BzLkEcBA73fV4PKedaIwHrIlfyUEwXzgP6nYzQum0lTHw==" target="_blank">http://yieldcontest.wheatfoundation.org/</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Congratulations to the Kansas winners in the National Wheat Yield Contest

On Wednesday, Nov. 30, the Barton County Historical Society will host a presentation by the Barton Community College History of Dance students. 

The students will provide a lively evening of culture sharing and teaching dances. The students will present the history and instruction on dances from their heritage, to include dances from Greece, Mexico, Slovakia and other countries. Students will gain presentational skills as they share a piece of their culture and history. 

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program at starts at 7 p.m. with refreshments to follow. Admission for the program is free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668609152151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, Nov. 30, the Barton County Historical Society will host a presentation by the Barton Community College History of Dance students. The students will provide a lively evening of culture sharing and teaching dances. The students will present the history and instruction on dances from their heritage, to include dances from Greece, Mexico, Slovakia and other countries. Students will gain presentational skills as they share a piece of their culture and history. Be sure to wear your dancing shoes. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program at starts at 7 p.m. with refreshments to follow. Admission for the program is free.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668609183710.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton Co. Historical Society presents 'Dancing Around the World'

Newly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. 

Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Newly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Why do houseplants lose leaves after being brought inside?

A round of frozen precipitation earlier this week served as a cold reminder: Christmas really is just around the corner. The city of Ellinwood will start the season early with its annual Christkindl Market on Dec. 4. Ellinwood Chamber Board Member Jennifer Klepper said there will be various festive activities beginning at 1 p.m. that Sunday.

"It's a downtown event where people can come and shop," she said. "We're going to have some live music, we're going to have an open fire pit, carriage rides, and several vendors that will have booths set up throughout the downtown. All the local businesses will be open. We'll also be having some food vendors, along with the American Legion will be hosting a German beer garden."

Christkindl celebrations focus on German heritage, and that's why St. Nicholas usually makes a stop in Ellinwood before Santa Claus. New this year is the German beer garden at American Legion Post 117, and a parade of lights is also in the works for this year.

Ellinwood's downtown businesses and vendors will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 4 for the event. Raffle prizes, including several bundles of meat from Ellinwood Packing Plant, will be handed out at 5:30, and the parade of lights is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Raffle tickets may be purchased at any downtown Ellinwood business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668567167815.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA round of frozen precipitation earlier this week served as a cold reminder: Christmas really is just around the corner. The city of Ellinwood will start the season early with its annual Christkindl Market on Dec. 4. Ellinwood Chamber Board Member Jennifer Klepper said there will be various festive activities beginning at 1 p.m. that Sunday."It's a downtown event where people can come and shop," she said. "We're going to have some live music, we're going to have an open fire pit, carriage rides, and several vendors that will have booths set up throughout the downtown. All the local businesses will be open. We'll also be having some food vendors, along with the American Legion will be hosting a German beer garden."Christkindl celebrations focus on German heritage, and that's why St. Nicholas usually makes a stop in Ellinwood before Santa Claus. New this year is the German beer garden at American Legion Post 117, and a parade of lights is also in the works for this year.Ellinwood's downtown businesses and vendors will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 4 for the event. Raffle prizes, including several bundles of meat from Ellinwood Packing Plant, will be handed out at 5:30, and the parade of lights is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Raffle tickets may be purchased at any downtown Ellinwood business.

Ellinwood's Christkindl Market kicks off Christmas season Dec. 4

The Great Bend Recreation Commission is just over two weeks away from
transforming the city auditorium into Santa’s Workshop. The annual event takes
place Dec. 5 and children will be able to visit with Santa
Claus, enjoy treats and create crafts. 

Rec Commission Enrichment Director Garet
Fitzpatrick said there will be plenty of activities and things to see for all. "We'll be giving away craft antlers for kids," said Fitzpatrick. "We'll have red noses for the kids. This will be a photo op for them. We're changing up our fish pond this year. We're still giving out balloons, necklaces and coloring books." 
The Great Bend Rec used a drive-through experience the last two years for Santa’s
Workshop due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Being the first year back indoors, the
GBRC staff is going all out to decorate the auditorium this year. There will be
a large banner, pop-up backdrops, photo opportunity props, new displays and
Christmas trees. Multiple stations will be handing out treats and prizes 
Santa’s Workshop is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and is
designed for preschool children through 6th grade.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668615140593.jpeg" alt="The 2022 Santa's Workshop will be back indoors at the City Auditorium on Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m." />
 <figcaption>The 2022 Santa's Workshop will be back indoors at the City Auditorium on Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Recreation Commission is just over two weeks away from
transforming the city auditorium into Santa’s Workshop. The annual event takes
place Dec. 5 and children will be able to visit with Santa
Claus, enjoy treats and create crafts. Rec Commission Enrichment Director Garet
Fitzpatrick said there will be plenty of activities and things to see for all. "We'll be giving away craft antlers for kids," said Fitzpatrick. "We'll have red noses for the kids. This will be a photo op for them. We're changing up our fish pond this year. We're still giving out balloons, necklaces and coloring books." 
The Great Bend Rec used a drive-through experience the last two years for Santa’s
Workshop due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Being the first year back indoors, the
GBRC staff is going all out to decorate the auditorium this year. There will be
a large banner, pop-up backdrops, photo opportunity props, new displays and
Christmas trees. Multiple stations will be handing out treats and prizes 
Santa’s Workshop is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and is
designed for preschool children through 6th grade.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rec gearing up for Santa’s Workshop

Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services

Coloring books and crayons have been a popular item on store shelves in the Great Bend area the past few months. That’s because area groups are stepping up to bolster the Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club’s Coloring Book and Crayon Drive, which began last September and ends at the end of this month.

Two area organizations conducted separate efforts to contribute to the color book and crayon cause that benefits area children. Representatives from United Healthcare donated 250 coloring books and 225 crayon boxes last Wednesday. And students from Great Bend High School’s National Honor Society followed that up by donating 138 coloring books and 66 boxes of crayons, which they collected during a home Great Bend High School football game last month.

“This makes my heart happy to see so many donations coming in from our community,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “It’s our seventh year conducting this drive and community involvement is way above where it has ever been. Our AKTION Club members are elated to get such a strong showing of support for their drive.”

UnitedHealthcare employees combined two teams of their own to provide their large donation. One employee organized a donation match with the company that will go toward the group’s final donation count.

“Talking to a few people who are part of the AKTION Club, I knew they were super excited about this drive, so I wanted to help with their effort,” said United Healthcare care coordinator Amanda Rome. “Katie (Leikam) and I are on two different teams, but we combined forces for this donation.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend High School National Honor Society rallied their supporters during a home football game and that resulted in a big score of donated items for the AKTION Club drive.

“We like to help where ever we can, and of course we wanted to help with this drive,” said GBHS student and NHS officer Madelynn Gregg. “It was just a matter of how we could become involved. … There was a big social media push going out to our Booster Club, and our admin that maintains social media pages at our school helped, too. We also advertised the message around the school. We had a couple of days to get it done and were able to spread the word and have a good turn-out for the drive.”

“Of course, we knew when we asked for those coloring books and crayons, that people were going to step up at our school and donate a lot of items,” added fellow GBHS student and NHS officer Gavin Hirsh.

Included with the drive, Rosewood AKTION Club is in a friendly competition with Rosewood Services employees to see which group can raise the most items. Community donated items raised from the drive will go toward the AKTION Club count.

“I think Rosewood Day Services may be going down this year, but it remains to be seen because they’ve been tremendous donors to this cause the past four years,” said Pelster. “I can’t say enough good things about the generosity and support that Rosewood employees have shown to our AKTION Club, especially when it comes to this community cause.”

People can still drop off coloring book and crayon donations, along with monetary donations for the purchase of coloring books and crayons to two locations in downtown Great Bend. Those locations are&nbsp;Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 1607 Main Street; and&nbsp;Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main Street.

Attending Rosewood AKTION Club’s meeting last Friday, Gregg and Hirsh, along with GBHS NHS faculty sponsor Kaycie Teghtmeyer, experienced the exuberance of AKTION Club members as they received the donations from the National Honor Society officers. It was a consequential moment for the GBHS students.

“We don’t always get to see the end result from our efforts,” explained Gregg. “Getting the invitation to come and see how excited they are about this drive, and to see how we are actually helping them to succeed in their effort, it’s a great feeling to be a part of that. You’re getting to see your hard work pay off and how happy it makes others. There’s no better feeling in the world than knowing you are truly helping.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For questions about Rosewood AKTION Club’s Coloring Book and Crayon Drive, contact Pelster at 620-603-6502; employmentspecialist@RosewoodServices.com.

Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668527978944.jpeg" alt="Caring for Community -&nbsp;UnitedHealthcare representatives deliver their coloring books and crayons, donated on Nov. 8, to the Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club. Standing left to right: Katie Leikam (UHC care coordinator); Tonya Burton (RW AKTION Club assistant sponsor); Amanda Rome (UHC care coordinator); Robin Rziha (UHC care coordinator); Frankie Pelster (RW AKTION Club sponsor); and Christine Martinez (UHC care coordinator).&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Caring for Community -&nbsp;UnitedHealthcare representatives deliver their coloring books and crayons, donated on Nov. 8, to the Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club. Standing left to right: Katie Leikam (UHC care coordinator); Tonya Burton (RW AKTION Club assistant sponsor); Amanda Rome (UHC care coordinator); Robin Rziha (UHC care coordinator); Frankie Pelster (RW AKTION Club sponsor); and Christine Martinez (UHC care coordinator).&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood ServicesColoring books and crayons have been a popular item on store shelves in the Great Bend area the past few months. That’s because area groups are stepping up to bolster the Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club’s Coloring Book and Crayon Drive, which began last September and ends at the end of this month.Two area organizations conducted separate efforts to contribute to the color book and crayon cause that benefits area children. Representatives from United Healthcare donated 250 coloring books and 225 crayon boxes last Wednesday. And students from Great Bend High School’s National Honor Society followed that up by donating 138 coloring books and 66 boxes of crayons, which they collected during a home Great Bend High School football game last month.“This makes my heart happy to see so many donations coming in from our community,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “It’s our seventh year conducting this drive and community involvement is way above where it has ever been. Our AKTION Club members are elated to get such a strong showing of support for their drive.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668528009463.jpeg" alt="GBHS Honor Society Donation –&nbsp;Members of the Great Bend High School National Honor Society donate coloring books and crayons to Rosewood AKTION Club during the Club’s November meeting on Nov. 11. Standing left to right are officers for Rosewood AKTION Club and GBHS NHS: Destiny Thomas (RW), Josh Trimmer (RW),&nbsp;Kaycie Teghtmeyer (GBHS NHS sponsor); Madelynn Gregg (GBHS NHS); Gavin Hirsh (GBHS NHS); Kurtis Coleman (RW), and Ashley Hullett (RW).&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>GBHS Honor Society Donation –&nbsp;Members of the Great Bend High School National Honor Society donate coloring books and crayons to Rosewood AKTION Club during the Club’s November meeting on Nov. 11. Standing left to right are officers for Rosewood AKTION Club and GBHS NHS: Destiny Thomas (RW), Josh Trimmer (RW),&nbsp;Kaycie Teghtmeyer (GBHS NHS sponsor); Madelynn Gregg (GBHS NHS); Gavin Hirsh (GBHS NHS); Kurtis Coleman (RW), and Ashley Hullett (RW).&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>UnitedHealthcare employees combined two teams of their own to provide their large donation. One employee organized a donation match with the company that will go toward the group’s final donation count.“Talking to a few people who are part of the AKTION Club, I knew they were super excited about this drive, so I wanted to help with their effort,” said United Healthcare care coordinator Amanda Rome. “Katie (Leikam) and I are on two different teams, but we combined forces for this donation.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend High School National Honor Society rallied their supporters during a home football game and that resulted in a big score of donated items for the AKTION Club drive.“We like to help where ever we can, and of course we wanted to help with this drive,” said GBHS student and NHS officer Madelynn Gregg. “It was just a matter of how we could become involved. … There was a big social media push going out to our Booster Club, and our admin that maintains social media pages at our school helped, too. We also advertised the message around the school. We had a couple of days to get it done and were able to spread the word and have a good turn-out for the drive.”“Of course, we knew when we asked for those coloring books and crayons, that people were going to step up at our school and donate a lot of items,” added fellow GBHS student and NHS officer Gavin Hirsh.Included with the drive, Rosewood AKTION Club is in a friendly competition with Rosewood Services employees to see which group can raise the most items. Community donated items raised from the drive will go toward the AKTION Club count.“I think Rosewood Day Services may be going down this year, but it remains to be seen because they’ve been tremendous donors to this cause the past four years,” said Pelster. “I can’t say enough good things about the generosity and support that Rosewood employees have shown to our AKTION Club, especially when it comes to this community cause.”People can still drop off coloring book and crayon donations, along with monetary donations for the purchase of coloring books and crayons to two locations in downtown Great Bend. Those locations are&nbsp;Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 1607 Main Street; and&nbsp;Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main Street.Attending Rosewood AKTION Club’s meeting last Friday, Gregg and Hirsh, along with GBHS NHS faculty sponsor Kaycie Teghtmeyer, experienced the exuberance of AKTION Club members as they received the donations from the National Honor Society officers. It was a consequential moment for the GBHS students.“We don’t always get to see the end result from our efforts,” explained Gregg. “Getting the invitation to come and see how excited they are about this drive, and to see how we are actually helping them to succeed in their effort, it’s a great feeling to be a part of that. You’re getting to see your hard work pay off and how happy it makes others. There’s no better feeling in the world than knowing you are truly helping.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For questions about Rosewood AKTION Club’s Coloring Book and Crayon Drive, contact Pelster at 620-603-6502; employmentspecialist@RosewoodServices.com.Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

Community groups making impact in Coloring Book and Crayon Drive

Many industries are moving towards data. Education is no exception. At Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp reviewed state assessment scores from across the state. The results come from the Class of 2019, but are from tests administered in 2017 when those students were sophomores in high school. Popp said the chart illustrates how students in the lower half of performance scores are still primed to succeed.

"There are a lot of students that scored level 2, and there are a lot of parents and a lot of students who feel really bad about them scoring at a level 2," he said. "I think what this chart does is shows that scoring at a level 2 on the state assessment is not bad at all. Scoring at level 2 on the state assessment is really indicating you are on track to be successful in college just by a one-day test."

There are four performance levels on the state assessments, and the chart broke each of those levels into a bottom and top half. Much attention tends to go toward the bottom two levels, but Popp said that's not where the dividing line should be.

"We've drawn this arbitrary line - I call it arbitrary because it wasn't there originally - between level 2 and level 3," he said. "Level 2, we have stated, is not proficient on the state assessment, whereas level 3 is proficient on the state assessment."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653336027388.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMany industries are moving towards data. Education is no exception. At Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp reviewed state assessment scores from across the state. The results come from the Class of 2019, but are from tests administered in 2017 when those students were sophomores in high school. Popp said the chart illustrates how students in the lower half of performance scores are still primed to succeed."There are a lot of students that scored level 2, and there are a lot of parents and a lot of students who feel really bad about them scoring at a level 2," he said. "I think what this chart does is shows that scoring at a level 2 on the state assessment is not bad at all. Scoring at level 2 on the state assessment is really indicating you are on track to be successful in college just by a one-day test."There are four performance levels on the state assessments, and the chart broke each of those levels into a bottom and top half. Much attention tends to go toward the bottom two levels, but Popp said that's not where the dividing line should be."We've drawn this arbitrary line - I call it arbitrary because it wasn't there originally - between level 2 and level 3," he said. "Level 2, we have stated, is not proficient on the state assessment, whereas level 3 is proficient on the state assessment."By the numbers, approximately 68 percent of students who scored at the bottom of level 1 in math or English graduated. Just 13 percent of those students went on to finish at least a year of college or obtain a professional certification in the year after high school, and the average ACT score for those students was 15 out of a possible 36.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668630315914.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Numbers climbed significantly just between the bottom and top halves of level 1. By the top of level 2, graduation rates were about 93 percent, college rates around 60 percent, and ACT scores at 21. Graduation rates improved marginally from there, even through the highest level of assessment scores."I think the main story this graph shows is the goal of getting students to move from level 1 into level 2," Popp said. "If we move kids to where they're scoring at a level 2, there's a lot more that graduate and go on to college or some kind of certification. It's like the doors start to open up more for them if they get to level 2."As a reference point, Popp said a math score of 25 is needed on the ACT to study engineering at Kansas State University. Students in the bottom of level three scored 24 in the math portion of the ACT, and students in the top half of level 3 scored a 26. The highest performers on the state assessment averaged a 32 on the math portion of the ACT.The board discussed how some of the numbers could be misleading. Many students at the bottom of level 1 may not have taken the ACT, which might skew the average score higher. And the Class of 2019 had to contend with COVID-19 their first year of college, and that may have impacted some of the attendance rates. The board will discuss district-specific test assessment results at its December meeting.

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