Barton Community College’s Center for Adult Education will soon begin another nine-week session of classes. However, orientation days are required before starting the classes. Students must attend all orientation days in-person, which will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Nov. 14-17. The Center for Adult Education is located at 1025 Main Street in Great Bend.

The first day of class will start on Nov. 22 and attendance is required to complete the orientation process. Classes will be held from 1-4 p.m. or 6-9 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.

Students will complete the required testing, learn how to navigate their GED.com account and learn about WorkReady! Students will also meet one-on-one with their instructor to discuss goals, expectations, attendance requirements and workload.

Those interested in taking the GED exam without any preparation instruction can do so right away but are urged to receive advising before moving forward.

Minors must bring a parent or legal guardian to enroll. A completed Compulsory Attendance Waiver is required for any student 16 or 17 years of age, prior to starting classes. The form can be furnished by the last school the student attended. If students are unable to obtain a form, they can contact the Adult Education office and a form can be sent out.

For more information, contact Support and Testing Specialist Gina Owen at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:oweng@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">oweng@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 786-7565.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649446709449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaBarton Community College’s Center for Adult Education will soon begin another nine-week session of classes. However, orientation days are required before starting the classes. Students must attend all orientation days in-person, which will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Nov. 14-17. The Center for Adult Education is located at 1025 Main Street in Great Bend.The first day of class will start on Nov. 22 and attendance is required to complete the orientation process. Classes will be held from 1-4 p.m. or 6-9 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.Students will complete the required testing, learn how to navigate their GED.com account and learn about WorkReady! Students will also meet one-on-one with their instructor to discuss goals, expectations, attendance requirements and workload.Those interested in taking the GED exam without any preparation instruction can do so right away but are urged to receive advising before moving forward.Minors must bring a parent or legal guardian to enroll. A completed Compulsory Attendance Waiver is required for any student 16 or 17 years of age, prior to starting classes. The form can be furnished by the last school the student attended. If students are unable to obtain a form, they can contact the Adult Education office and a form can be sent out.For more information, contact Support and Testing Specialist Gina Owen at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:oweng@bartonccc.edu" target="_blank">oweng@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 786-7565.

Barton Community College to host adult education classes downtown

Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired Oct. 19, 2022.

The Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired Oct. 19, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/sam5rbuu/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>The Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Cheyenne Bottoms show: Manager Jason Wagner

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun and Graham County Sheriff Cole Presley, discuss the proposed amendment to the Kansas Consitution on the ballot in November that would enshrine the office of the Sheriff within the constitution.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun and Graham County Sheriff Cole Presley, discuss the proposed amendment to the Kansas Consitution on the ballot in November that would enshrine the office of the Sheriff within the constitution.<div><iframe title="Area Sheriff’s discuss proposed Kansas constitutional amendment" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jdp7h-12f2b8a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Area Sheriff's discuss proposed Kansas constitutional amendment

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

When Bob Suelter retired last November, he took 42 years serving as the
Great Bend City Attorney with him. The city responded with contracting out the
attorney and prosecutor positions to local law firm Watkins Calcara. Each
position was paid $7,000 per month. 

Allen Glendenning is now transitioning away
from his current practice and will become Great Bend's full-time attorney and
prosecutor in November. 
Glendenning has been serving as city attorney the past year on a part-time
basis. Great Bend learned that the attorney’s workload requires a more
full-time presence.

City Administrator Kendal Francis said Watkins Calcara will
provide the full-time attorney for a flat fee of $14,000 per month. Watkins
will provide workman’s comp and other insurances for Glendenning. "We were paying them based on 40 hours a month for the prosecutor and 40 hours a month for the attorney," said Francis. "Now we're putting it into one position on 40 hours a week. Anything above 40 hours, we were paying a flat rate of $200 an hour. It wasn't like they were stopping at 40 hours. They continued to put in additional hours." 
The $168,000 annual salary for the city attorney position was approved to begin
Nov. 1 and has a term of three years ending in 2025. 
The city will continue to provide a legal staff position to assist Glendenning. 
Great Bend also understands that Glendenning will need time to transition from
part-time to fulltime by concluding or transferring from cases he is currently
handling at Watkins.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662515841850.jpeg" alt="Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning (right) with City Administrator Kendal Francis. Glendenning will become the city's fulltime attorney and prosecutor on Nov. 1." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend City Attorney Allen Glendenning (right) with City Administrator Kendal Francis. Glendenning will become the city's fulltime attorney and prosecutor on Nov. 1.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen Bob Suelter retired last November, he took 42 years serving as the
Great Bend City Attorney with him. The city responded with contracting out the
attorney and prosecutor positions to local law firm Watkins Calcara. Each
position was paid $7,000 per month. Allen Glendenning is now transitioning away
from his current practice and will become Great Bend's full-time attorney and
prosecutor in November. 
Glendenning has been serving as city attorney the past year on a part-time
basis. Great Bend learned that the attorney’s workload requires a more
full-time presence. City Administrator Kendal Francis said Watkins Calcara will
provide the full-time attorney for a flat fee of $14,000 per month. Watkins
will provide workman’s comp and other insurances for Glendenning. "We were paying them based on 40 hours a month for the prosecutor and 40 hours a month for the attorney," said Francis. "Now we're putting it into one position on 40 hours a week. Anything above 40 hours, we were paying a flat rate of $200 an hour. It wasn't like they were stopping at 40 hours. They continued to put in additional hours." 
The $168,000 annual salary for the city attorney position was approved to begin
Nov. 1 and has a term of three years ending in 2025. 
The city will continue to provide a legal staff position to assist Glendenning. 
Great Bend also understands that Glendenning will need time to transition from
part-time to fulltime by concluding or transferring from cases he is currently
handling at Watkins.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Great Bend back to having a fulltime city attorney

Bringing the Great Bend zoo to you

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

There has been a giant push in recent years to raise awareness regarding mental health and eliminate the stigma surrounding treatment. According to a study released by Mental Health America, Kansas is not doing enough. The state ranked last in the nation in overall mental health care, based on mental illness figures and access to health care. Dr. Patrick Stang with the Center for Counseling in Great Bend, said that is not necessarily indicative of access for area residents.

"I think people have fairly good access," he said. "We have services here, Heart of Kansas also has services. We have even outreach clinics to the other counties we serve in Lyons, Larned, and Stafford. I know we've had an uptick in the number of people who have done intakes with us the last few weeks, so people, I think, are seeking care."

Stang said community outreach events like Mental Health Awareness Day and the Women's Expo have helped raise awareness about available services, and the Center for Counseling has improved its services for those needing immediate help.

"We have walk-in intakes that people can come in and do the paperwork, or do it online, and come right in and have their intake the same day instead of scheduling an intake two weeks out like we used to do years ago," he said. "We'd have a lot of people not show up for that because, by that time, they'd either sought care somewhere else or the crisis had passed."

Wisconsin ranked No. 1 for overall mental health in the study. Kansas fell to the bottom based largely on youth reporting substance use disorders, adults with any mental illness, and adults with serious thoughts of suicide. At nine percent, youth using illegal substances ranked No. 51 in the nation, including the District of Columbia, and the other categories ranked 48th.

Stang said percentages can be misleading when dealing with rural populations because just a few instances can drastically increase the percentage, and he said there has been a lot of emphasis on those very problems in the area.

"I know we've been working on that problem with the outreach we do with the kids with the Zero Reasons Why Suicide Prevention thing we've got going in some of the schools in the area," he said. "We do the Glow Walk every year. Suicide Prevention Task Force does that. We're trying to address that and letting people know help is available. I think this 988 Suicide and Mental Health number people can call will make a difference because it will be easier for people to call and not have to remember a long number."

Kansas ranked 37th overall for mental health workforce availability, with one mental health provider for every 470 residents in the state. The national average is one provider for every 350 individuals. See complete results from the study by <a href="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf?eType=ActivityDefinitionInstance&amp;eId=5768b343-b128-4de9-a180-20ed43f570d4">CLICKING HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625843125744.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThere has been a giant push in recent years to raise awareness regarding mental health and eliminate the stigma surrounding treatment. According to a study released by Mental Health America, Kansas is not doing enough. The state ranked last in the nation in overall mental health care, based on mental illness figures and access to health care. Dr. Patrick Stang with the Center for Counseling in Great Bend, said that is not necessarily indicative of access for area residents."I think people have fairly good access," he said. "We have services here, Heart of Kansas also has services. We have even outreach clinics to the other counties we serve in Lyons, Larned, and Stafford. I know we've had an uptick in the number of people who have done intakes with us the last few weeks, so people, I think, are seeking care."Stang said community outreach events like Mental Health Awareness Day and the Women's Expo have helped raise awareness about available services, and the Center for Counseling has improved its services for those needing immediate help."We have walk-in intakes that people can come in and do the paperwork, or do it online, and come right in and have their intake the same day instead of scheduling an intake two weeks out like we used to do years ago," he said. "We'd have a lot of people not show up for that because, by that time, they'd either sought care somewhere else or the crisis had passed."Wisconsin ranked No. 1 for overall mental health in the study. Kansas fell to the bottom based largely on youth reporting substance use disorders, adults with any mental illness, and adults with serious thoughts of suicide. At nine percent, youth using illegal substances ranked No. 51 in the nation, including the District of Columbia, and the other categories ranked 48th.Stang said percentages can be misleading when dealing with rural populations because just a few instances can drastically increase the percentage, and he said there has been a lot of emphasis on those very problems in the area."I know we've been working on that problem with the outreach we do with the kids with the Zero Reasons Why Suicide Prevention thing we've got going in some of the schools in the area," he said. "We do the Glow Walk every year. Suicide Prevention Task Force does that. We're trying to address that and letting people know help is available. I think this 988 Suicide and Mental Health number people can call will make a difference because it will be easier for people to call and not have to remember a long number."Kansas ranked 37th overall for mental health workforce availability, with one mental health provider for every 470 residents in the state. The national average is one provider for every 350 individuals. See complete results from the study by <a href="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf?eType=ActivityDefinitionInstance&amp;eId=5768b343-b128-4de9-a180-20ed43f570d4">CLICKING HERE</a>.

Great Bend psychiatrist: Local options available despite negative report

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (10/19) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:01 a.m. an accident was reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
At 2:07 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 210 Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 3:27 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56 Highway &amp; SW 40
Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:42 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 4 NW 30 Road. 
 
Sex Offense 
 
At 5:31 p.m. a sex offense was reported at 1416 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 9:13 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 375 SE 130 Avenue in
Ellinwood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (10/19) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 7:01 a.m. an accident was reported at 601 N. US 281 Highway. 
 
At 2:07 p.m. an accident was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp; NE 210 Road. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 3:27 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56 Highway &amp; SW 40
Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 3:42 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 4 NW 30 Road. 
 
Sex Offense 
 
At 5:31 p.m. a sex offense was reported at 1416 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Child in Need of Care 
 
At 9:13 p.m. a child in need of care was reported at 375 SE 130 Avenue in
Ellinwood.

Cop Shop (10/19)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

You might be the best driver on the road. But there are plenty of other drivers out there. That's why the Great Bend Recreation Commission is teaming up with the Barton County Sheriff's Office Monday and Tuesday evenings for a defensive driving course. Undersheriff Steve Billinger said the class is a good learning tool for drivers of all ages.

"You think this is a class geared for older people, but it's for all ages," he said. "We find even our senior citizens driving loved the class. Everyone loves learning about being a better driver. One of the things that surprises me the most is, people still, no matter what their experience is, they still want to be a better driver and want to learn new stuff about driving."

All the learning takes place in the classroom as Billinger discusses eight chapters over two evenings. Topics include impaired driving, the importance of vision health, road rage, and more.

"We cover the fundamentals, and it's kind of a reminder class for people to learn new stuff that they didn't know," Billinger said. "The importance of looking down the road, controlling your spaces around you, being prepared for emergencies."

In addition to learning about being a better driver, those who complete both nights of the course can apply for lower insurance premiums. 

"By Kansas law, if you complete the defensive driving class, you do get a reduction in your premium," said Billinger. "It's dependant on the companies how they do it. Some companies take it off your comp/collision, or some of it is across the board. But once you complete it, you turn it in to your agent, and you get the defensive driving discount applied."

Oct. 20 is the last day to register for the class, which runs from 6-9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. Call the Great Bend Rec to enroll.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666271985213.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post You might be the best driver on the road. But there are plenty of other drivers out there. That's why the Great Bend Recreation Commission is teaming up with the Barton County Sheriff's Office Monday and Tuesday evenings for a defensive driving course. Undersheriff Steve Billinger said the class is a good learning tool for drivers of all ages."You think this is a class geared for older people, but it's for all ages," he said. "We find even our senior citizens driving loved the class. Everyone loves learning about being a better driver. One of the things that surprises me the most is, people still, no matter what their experience is, they still want to be a better driver and want to learn new stuff about driving."All the learning takes place in the classroom as Billinger discusses eight chapters over two evenings. Topics include impaired driving, the importance of vision health, road rage, and more."We cover the fundamentals, and it's kind of a reminder class for people to learn new stuff that they didn't know," Billinger said. "The importance of looking down the road, controlling your spaces around you, being prepared for emergencies."In addition to learning about being a better driver, those who complete both nights of the course can apply for lower insurance premiums. "By Kansas law, if you complete the defensive driving class, you do get a reduction in your premium," said Billinger. "It's dependant on the companies how they do it. Some companies take it off your comp/collision, or some of it is across the board. But once you complete it, you turn it in to your agent, and you get the defensive driving discount applied."Oct. 20 is the last day to register for the class, which runs from 6-9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. Call the Great Bend Rec to enroll.

Today is final day to enroll in Great Bend's defensive driving class

10/19 BOOKED: Brodie Bretz on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

RELEASED: Michael Cashman on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Lisa Crain on Barton County District Court case for Driving without a License and Driving Under the Influence, on a $10,000 OR bond through Judge Burgess.

RELEASED: Jan Norwood on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>10/19 BOOKED: Brodie Bretz on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.RELEASED: Michael Cashman on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: Lisa Crain on Barton County District Court case for Driving without a License and Driving Under the Influence, on a $10,000 OR bond through Judge Burgess.RELEASED: Jan Norwood on Barton County District Court case, after serving sentence.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (10/19)

He counts numbers by day and wood chips by night. For nearly 25 years, Great Bend accountant Barry Bowers has been chipping away at wood blocks as part of a wood carving hobby. Last week, Bowers learned he had won two first-place prizes, and a second place, in the Canada-based Richmond Carvers Society contest that featured 116 carvers from 12 countries. The 2022 contest was a virtual one, and carvers were allowed to submit two photos of a piece in a given category.

"Their competition was a little unique because it was single human," Bowers explained. "A lot of times it's caricature human and realistic human. In this particular show, everything was kind of pushed together, so that made it a little more challenging."

Bowers fell into the hobby by accident when a friend goaded him into signing up for an instructional class at the Great Bend Recreation Commission more than two decades ago.

"Jack June is a good friend of mine, and he was the instructor," said Bowers. "He kept badgering me, telling me I needed to try it because it's so relaxing. I didn't really believe him, but it turned out to be true."

Bowers kept chipping away at the hobby, improving his work with a class or two each year. He began entering competitions about six years ago and found a new side to the hobby.

"It's gotten to be more fun," he said. "It can be more competitive, and I feel like the results are a little better. There's still a long way to go. There are people way better than me, for sure, but I feel like I'm in the middle of the pack at least."

There is endless variety in woodcarving, from the type of wood used to the subject of the art. Bowers prefers caricature art, and enjoys the wide variety of looks Santa offers.

"Some people describe it as exaggerated or cartoonish, but it's just not realistic," he said. "I do a fair amount of Santas. Santa is kind of fun to do because he can be about anything, really. I enjoy caricature. For me, I enjoy the humor, and you can usually tell a story with a carving, whether it's a group or how the expressions are."

Some artists number their carvings though Bowers never has. Still, he estimates he produces between 15-20 carvings annually. His chosen medium is northern basswood, usually purchased from Wisconsin. Even with aggressive carving, each piece takes approximately 15-20 hours from start to finish. Naturally, there has been some blood spilled along the way.

"I hadn't been carving very long, and I put a gouge in the side of my finger," Bowers recalled. "There's a really good hand surgeon in Hays, I found out at the time. I've had stitches more than once. I wear a glove on the hand I'm holding the carving with, which helps quite a bit. Doctors are always very impressed with how clean the cuts are. The tools are very sharp."

Bowers is part of the Golden Belt Wood Carvers that meet every Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center. Anyone is welcome to stop by to try their hand at the craft, or just to watch some of the more experienced carvers. The group even has a starter set for first-timers who might be interested in seeing the variety of work possible.

"There are all different kinds of carving," said Bowers. "That's why I enjoy carving, partially. There are realistic carvers, bird carvers, some people carve animals. There are just a million things they can do, so a person can find the wood and style they enjoy. Everybody helps everybody. There's a good social aspect to it."

The group tries to host a beginner's class at least once a year, and it plans to host a class with the Great Bend Public Library in January. Some of Bower's work - mostly Santas - can be purchased at Heart of Kansas Mercantile on Main Street in Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666103513876.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostHe counts numbers by day and wood chips by night. For nearly 25 years, Great Bend accountant Barry Bowers has been chipping away at wood blocks as part of a wood carving hobby. Last week, Bowers learned he had won two first-place prizes, and a second place, in the Canada-based Richmond Carvers Society contest that featured 116 carvers from 12 countries. The 2022 contest was a virtual one, and carvers were allowed to submit two photos of a piece in a given category."Their competition was a little unique because it was single human," Bowers explained. "A lot of times it's caricature human and realistic human. In this particular show, everything was kind of pushed together, so that made it a little more challenging."Bowers fell into the hobby by accident when a friend goaded him into signing up for an instructional class at the Great Bend Recreation Commission more than two decades ago."Jack June is a good friend of mine, and he was the instructor," said Bowers. "He kept badgering me, telling me I needed to try it because it's so relaxing. I didn't really believe him, but it turned out to be true."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666103540016.png" alt="Bowers' award-winning pieces from the Richmond Carvers Society contest." />
 <figcaption>Bowers' award-winning pieces from the Richmond Carvers Society contest.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bowers kept chipping away at the hobby, improving his work with a class or two each year. He began entering competitions about six years ago and found a new side to the hobby."It's gotten to be more fun," he said. "It can be more competitive, and I feel like the results are a little better. There's still a long way to go. There are people way better than me, for sure, but I feel like I'm in the middle of the pack at least."There is endless variety in woodcarving, from the type of wood used to the subject of the art. Bowers prefers caricature art, and enjoys the wide variety of looks Santa offers."Some people describe it as exaggerated or cartoonish, but it's just not realistic," he said. "I do a fair amount of Santas. Santa is kind of fun to do because he can be about anything, really. I enjoy caricature. For me, I enjoy the humor, and you can usually tell a story with a carving, whether it's a group or how the expressions are."Some artists number their carvings though Bowers never has. Still, he estimates he produces between 15-20 carvings annually. His chosen medium is northern basswood, usually purchased from Wisconsin. Even with aggressive carving, each piece takes approximately 15-20 hours from start to finish. Naturally, there has been some blood spilled along the way."I hadn't been carving very long, and I put a gouge in the side of my finger," Bowers recalled. "There's a really good hand surgeon in Hays, I found out at the time. I've had stitches more than once. I wear a glove on the hand I'm holding the carving with, which helps quite a bit. Doctors are always very impressed with how clean the cuts are. The tools are very sharp."Bowers is part of the Golden Belt Wood Carvers that meet every Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center. Anyone is welcome to stop by to try their hand at the craft, or just to watch some of the more experienced carvers. The group even has a starter set for first-timers who might be interested in seeing the variety of work possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666103594087.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"There are all different kinds of carving," said Bowers. "That's why I enjoy carving, partially. There are realistic carvers, bird carvers, some people carve animals. There are just a million things they can do, so a person can find the wood and style they enjoy. Everybody helps everybody. There's a good social aspect to it."The group tries to host a beginner's class at least once a year, and it plans to host a class with the Great Bend Public Library in January. Some of Bower's work - mostly Santas - can be purchased at Heart of Kansas Mercantile on Main Street in Great Bend.

Carving out tension: Great Bend's Bowers wins wood carving award

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Northwest wind 8 to 11 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 46. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 84. Southwest wind 8 to 10 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. South wind around 7 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 7 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Windy.

Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy.

Monday A 20-percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. Breezy.

Monday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 62.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 61.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 79. Northwest wind 8 to 11 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 46. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 84. Southwest wind 8 to 10 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. South wind around 7 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 7 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 56.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Windy.Sunday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy.Monday A 20-percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. Breezy.Monday Night A 20-percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 62.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 61.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's Weather

A Phillipsburg native and former teacher in Ellis, Agra and Great Bend has been named Young Alumna of the Year by York University in York, Neb. Adrianne
 “Annie” (Keesee) Johnson came to York University in the fall of 1997 
out of Phillipsburg. Annie majored in K-12 music education and 
was a member of the Concert Choir all four years at York and served as 
the alto section leader. Annie was an active member of Omega Phi social 
club which routinely won the Service Award for outstanding service to 
the campus and the community. Annie was broadly respected by her peers, 
evidenced by her selection as junior class secretary as part of Student 
Government in 1999-2000. Annie also fondly remembers being a part of 
Cocoa and Carols and Chamber Singers. After
 leaving York, Annie taught music in the small Kansas towns of Ellis and
 Agra. Annie went on to earn a master's degree from Wichita State 
University in special education music and also taught in Great Bend.&nbsp; Annie
 has been a consistent donor to the York scholarship fund for many 
years, giving back each month so other students can have the same 
life-changing experience she had while at York. In addition to that 
commitment, it was while teaching in Ellis, and a faithful member 
of the Hays Church of Christ, her humble life of service, love and joy 
caught the eye of Donald Kraus, an elderly farmer and longtime member of
 the congregation. Kraus would often hear Annie tell of her York 
experience, and it was that testimony and her faithfulness that led him 
to include York University in his will. That decision resulted in an 
estate gift of nearly $5 million dollars, providing restoration funds 
for the University’s Prayer Chapel as well as countless student 
scholarships over the years. Annie,
 who lives in Wichita, Kan., with her husband, Dr. Jared Johnson, and 
their children Lilly (11), Will (9), and Jemma (7), is being honored for
 her consistent dedication and outstanding support for her alma mater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666199065866.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Phillipsburg native and former teacher in Ellis, Agra and Great Bend has been named Young Alumna of the Year by York University in York, Neb. Adrianne
 “Annie” (Keesee) Johnson came to York University in the fall of 1997 
out of Phillipsburg. Annie majored in K-12 music education and 
was a member of the Concert Choir all four years at York and served as 
the alto section leader. Annie was an active member of Omega Phi social 
club which routinely won the Service Award for outstanding service to 
the campus and the community. Annie was broadly respected by her peers, 
evidenced by her selection as junior class secretary as part of Student 
Government in 1999-2000. Annie also fondly remembers being a part of 
Cocoa and Carols and Chamber Singers. After
 leaving York, Annie taught music in the small Kansas towns of Ellis and
 Agra. Annie went on to earn a master's degree from Wichita State 
University in special education music and also taught in Great Bend.&nbsp; Annie
 has been a consistent donor to the York scholarship fund for many 
years, giving back each month so other students can have the same 
life-changing experience she had while at York. In addition to that 
commitment, it was while teaching in Ellis, and a faithful member 
of the Hays Church of Christ, her humble life of service, love and joy 
caught the eye of Donald Kraus, an elderly farmer and longtime member of
 the congregation. Kraus would often hear Annie tell of her York 
experience, and it was that testimony and her faithfulness that led him 
to include York University in his will. That decision resulted in an 
estate gift of nearly $5 million dollars, providing restoration funds 
for the University’s Prayer Chapel as well as countless student 
scholarships over the years. Annie,
 who lives in Wichita, Kan., with her husband, Dr. Jared Johnson, and 
their children Lilly (11), Will (9), and Jemma (7), is being honored for
 her consistent dedication and outstanding support for her alma mater.Republished with permission

Former Great Bend teacher named Young Alumna of the Year at Neb. college

RUSSELL COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Mack Cement Truck driven by Mason David Roach, 28, Great Bend was northbound on U.S. 281 just south of Land Road.

The truck traveled off the left side of the road into the west ditch. It traveled through a private fence, went airborne and rolled.

&nbsp;Roach was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Pohlman Varner Peeler Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Mack Cement Truck driven by Mason David Roach, 28, Great Bend was northbound on U.S. 281 just south of Land Road.The truck traveled off the left side of the road into the west ditch. It traveled through a private fence, went airborne and rolled.&nbsp;Roach was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Pohlman Varner Peeler Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Great Bend man dies after cement truck goes airborne, rolls

Ghouls and goblins get ready - and butterflies and princesses, too. Great Bend Kiwanis will again host its Downtown Halloween Trick or Treat Boo on Oct. 29. Kiwanis member Amanda Urban said this year's event should be even bigger than those of the past.

"Great Bend Kiwanis and vendors downtown, along with the Great Bend community churches have collaborated to put on this year's Halloween Boo," she said. "We've combined the traditional parade going down Main Street to 16th, then back down to 12th Street, back to Jack Kilby Square with Trunk or Treating at the Square."

Community churches will sponsor the Trunk or Treat around Jack Kilby Square. The churches have teamed up to purchase candy for non-affiliated participants of Trunk or Treat, and Kiwanis is helping others set up booths along Main Street for those that would prefer booths over trunks. Each booth will be responsible for its own goodies.

"There were so many kids last year," Urban said. "When I'm asked about how much candy, I say plan for at least 1,000. You just don't know, depending on weather."

Members of the Great Bend Police Department, Great Bend Fire Department, and National Guard brought vehicles to last year's event. The National Guard has again committed to be part of this year's festivities. Parents and trick or treaters get to meet those service workers and enjoy a one-stop trick-or-treat location during daylight hours.

"There's a lot of benefit both ways," said Urban. "The kids are going to be getting their candy and showing off their costumes. Then they're able to get familiar with community service workers, which I think is great, because we want to teach our kids not to be afraid of policemen, not to be afraid of firemen, the National Guard." 

Urban also gave thanks to the city of Great Bend for making the event possible, especially Director of Public Lands Scott Keeler. "He is always so willing to do whatever needs to be done," she said. "He's our bathroom, electricity, grounds guy."

The Trick or Treat Boo runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be cancelled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666032125405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGhouls and goblins get ready - and butterflies and princesses, too. Great Bend Kiwanis will again host its Downtown Halloween Trick or Treat Boo on Oct. 29. Kiwanis member Amanda Urban said this year's event should be even bigger than those of the past."Great Bend Kiwanis and vendors downtown, along with the Great Bend community churches have collaborated to put on this year's Halloween Boo," she said. "We've combined the traditional parade going down Main Street to 16th, then back down to 12th Street, back to Jack Kilby Square with Trunk or Treating at the Square."Community churches will sponsor the Trunk or Treat around Jack Kilby Square. The churches have teamed up to purchase candy for non-affiliated participants of Trunk or Treat, and Kiwanis is helping others set up booths along Main Street for those that would prefer booths over trunks. Each booth will be responsible for its own goodies."There were so many kids last year," Urban said. "When I'm asked about how much candy, I say plan for at least 1,000. You just don't know, depending on weather."Members of the Great Bend Police Department, Great Bend Fire Department, and National Guard brought vehicles to last year's event. The National Guard has again committed to be part of this year's festivities. Parents and trick or treaters get to meet those service workers and enjoy a one-stop trick-or-treat location during daylight hours."There's a lot of benefit both ways," said Urban. "The kids are going to be getting their candy and showing off their costumes. Then they're able to get familiar with community service workers, which I think is great, because we want to teach our kids not to be afraid of policemen, not to be afraid of firemen, the National Guard." Urban also gave thanks to the city of Great Bend for making the event possible, especially Director of Public Lands Scott Keeler. "He is always so willing to do whatever needs to be done," she said. "He's our bathroom, electricity, grounds guy."The Trick or Treat Boo runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be cancelled.

Ghost town: Downtown Great Bend ready for trick or treaters Oct. 29

We all have stress. Did you know there are different kinds of stress? There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be. It is typically short term and subsides after the event. There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. This is called chronic or toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed and affect their bodily systems.

Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors. This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.

Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. What do you enjoy doing? Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy or makes you laugh. Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.

If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all have stress. Did you know there are different kinds of stress? There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be. It is typically short term and subsides after the event. There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. This is called chronic or toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed and affect their bodily systems.Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors. This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. What do you enjoy doing? Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy or makes you laugh. Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Different kinds of stress

The screening takes only a few minutes but the results can be a valuable tool for mental-health professionals who seek the proper treatment for their clients.

The GAD-7 screening is fairly new to The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway. GAD stands for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and 7 refers to the number of most common symptoms, explained Gail Sullivan, The Center’s clinical director, who helped implement the training for screenings here.

“GAD results in overwhelming anxiety, fear and uncertainty,” Sullivan said. “It is common to experience mild anxiety caused by stress. But those with anxiety disorders experience symptoms that are out of proportion to any actual danger or persist for significant periods of time.”

The most common symptoms are: feeling restless, wound-up or on edge; being easily fatigued; difficulty in concentrating; irritability; aches in the head, muscles or stomach, or unexplained pain; difficulty controlling feelings of worry; and sleep problems.

“The screening is designed to identify the presence of these symptoms,” Sullivan said. “Anxiety is the most common psychiatric disorder, which affects millions of adults. But it is often overlooked in a clinical assessment.

“Anxiety disorders can become progressively worse if not treated,” she added.

The Center will include the GAD-7 screen as part of intake assessments; it can be taken every six months to record progress. The screening form is available online and can be easily downloaded at no charge. It can be self-administered and easily scored to determine if symptoms are mild, moderate or severe.

“In the moderate or severe range, a person could visit with a mental-health provider to discuss what is creating or contributing to the anxiety,” Sullivan noted. “Clients also can learn skills to manage symptoms so they do not escalate.

“Treatment for anxiety, which can include cognitive behavioral therapy, can improve the management of symptoms and allow you to live a fuller life.”

Depression Mary Griswold, nurse practitioner at The Center, echoed many of Sullivan’s comments about anxiety but also shared information about depression in observance of National Depression &amp; Health Screening Month.

“There are many types of depression with a variety of symptoms,” Griswold said. “The signs that occur most of the day for at least two consecutive weeks may indicate an individual is suffering from depression.”

Symptoms include: persistent anxious or empty mood; feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, irritability, frustration, restlessness, guilt and worthlessness; loss of interest in activities; decreased energy; difficulty in concentrating, making decisions and sleeping; changes in appetite; thoughts of death and suicide; and aches and pains with no clear physical cause.

“Depression can cause severe symptoms that affect how you handle daily activities, while Generalized Anxiety Disorder is more than just normal worrying; it can be life-changing,” Griswold noted. “Those with GAD always expect disaster and can’t stop worrying about health, money, family, work or school.

“Both of these conditions are treatable and can help improve quality of life,” the nurse practitioner added. “Most people benefit from therapy and not everyone needs medication for depression and/or anxiety.”

When medication is prescribed, Griswold monitors clients for changes in symptoms.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630505042606.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The screening takes only a few minutes but the results can be a valuable tool for mental-health professionals who seek the proper treatment for their clients.The GAD-7 screening is fairly new to The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation, 5815 Broadway. GAD stands for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and 7 refers to the number of most common symptoms, explained Gail Sullivan, The Center’s clinical director, who helped implement the training for screenings here.“GAD results in overwhelming anxiety, fear and uncertainty,” Sullivan said. “It is common to experience mild anxiety caused by stress. But those with anxiety disorders experience symptoms that are out of proportion to any actual danger or persist for significant periods of time.”The most common symptoms are: feeling restless, wound-up or on edge; being easily fatigued; difficulty in concentrating; irritability; aches in the head, muscles or stomach, or unexplained pain; difficulty controlling feelings of worry; and sleep problems.“The screening is designed to identify the presence of these symptoms,” Sullivan said. “Anxiety is the most common psychiatric disorder, which affects millions of adults. But it is often overlooked in a clinical assessment.“Anxiety disorders can become progressively worse if not treated,” she added.The Center will include the GAD-7 screen as part of intake assessments; it can be taken every six months to record progress. The screening form is available online and can be easily downloaded at no charge. It can be self-administered and easily scored to determine if symptoms are mild, moderate or severe.“In the moderate or severe range, a person could visit with a mental-health provider to discuss what is creating or contributing to the anxiety,” Sullivan noted. “Clients also can learn skills to manage symptoms so they do not escalate.“Treatment for anxiety, which can include cognitive behavioral therapy, can improve the management of symptoms and allow you to live a fuller life.”Depression Mary Griswold, nurse practitioner at The Center, echoed many of Sullivan’s comments about anxiety but also shared information about depression in observance of National Depression &amp; Health Screening Month.“There are many types of depression with a variety of symptoms,” Griswold said. “The signs that occur most of the day for at least two consecutive weeks may indicate an individual is suffering from depression.”Symptoms include: persistent anxious or empty mood; feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, irritability, frustration, restlessness, guilt and worthlessness; loss of interest in activities; decreased energy; difficulty in concentrating, making decisions and sleeping; changes in appetite; thoughts of death and suicide; and aches and pains with no clear physical cause.“Depression can cause severe symptoms that affect how you handle daily activities, while Generalized Anxiety Disorder is more than just normal worrying; it can be life-changing,” Griswold noted. “Those with GAD always expect disaster and can’t stop worrying about health, money, family, work or school.“Both of these conditions are treatable and can help improve quality of life,” the nurse practitioner added. “Most people benefit from therapy and not everyone needs medication for depression and/or anxiety.”When medication is prescribed, Griswold monitors clients for changes in symptoms.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

The Center now offers specialized anxiety-disorder screening

Five thousand dollars is a lot of loose change. Each October, Knights of Columbus members and volunteers stand outside local businesses, handing out Tootsie Rolls and taking in donations. On Oct. 14-16, Great Bend Knights of Columbus Council 862 set a record by raising more than $5,000 from the Tootsie Roll Drive. 

Patrick Burnett, state program director for the Kansas State Council Knights of Columbus explains where that money goes.

"All of the proceeds go locally to help people with intellectual disabilities," he said, "then a portion of that goes to the Kansas State Council Knights of Columbus which, in turn, helps fund the Special Olympics basketball tournament in March."

Event chair Dave Dreiling said the Knights have previously given to Sunflower Diversified during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic and credits the many volunteers and Knights who help out the Barton County Storm Special Olympic team.

"The volunteers of the council, and the generosity, that's what made it," he said. "They were very generous this year."

Burnett said there are some 35,000 Knights of Columbus members in Kansas, and estimated several thousand of those members actively volunteered for the Tootsie Roll Drive. Locally, approximately 40 volunteers manned 2-hour shifts at Walmart and Dillons on 10th Street in Great Bend.

The Knights of Columbus was founded by then-29-year-old Father Michael McGivney in 1882. At that time, Catholics were being persecuted for their faith and because of their immigrant status. Young men and fathers often worked difficult jobs, and many died in those jobs, leaving behind widows and children. The government took the children away from the mothers, who could no longer support their families, and sent them across the country on orphan trains. 

"Father McGivney decided, we're going to change this," Burnett said. "So he started the original Knights of Columbus Insurance Group as a pass-the-hat organization in which the members of the Knights of Columbus would give whatever money they could, then that money collected would go to the widow so she could keep her children. That was the founding in 1882, and that mission is still alive today."

The Knights are now the largest Catholic fraternal service organization in the world, with more than 16,000 active councils. The organization now donates approximately $200 million to charitable projects each year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317743028.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFive thousand dollars is a lot of loose change. Each October, Knights of Columbus members and volunteers stand outside local businesses, handing out Tootsie Rolls and taking in donations. On Oct. 14-16, Great Bend Knights of Columbus Council 862 set a record by raising more than $5,000 from the Tootsie Roll Drive. Patrick Burnett, state program director for the Kansas State Council Knights of Columbus explains where that money goes."All of the proceeds go locally to help people with intellectual disabilities," he said, "then a portion of that goes to the Kansas State Council Knights of Columbus which, in turn, helps fund the Special Olympics basketball tournament in March."Event chair Dave Dreiling said the Knights have previously given to Sunflower Diversified during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic and credits the many volunteers and Knights who help out the Barton County Storm Special Olympic team."The volunteers of the council, and the generosity, that's what made it," he said. "They were very generous this year."Burnett said there are some 35,000 Knights of Columbus members in Kansas, and estimated several thousand of those members actively volunteered for the Tootsie Roll Drive. Locally, approximately 40 volunteers manned 2-hour shifts at Walmart and Dillons on 10th Street in Great Bend.The Knights of Columbus was founded by then-29-year-old Father Michael McGivney in 1882. At that time, Catholics were being persecuted for their faith and because of their immigrant status. Young men and fathers often worked difficult jobs, and many died in those jobs, leaving behind widows and children. The government took the children away from the mothers, who could no longer support their families, and sent them across the country on orphan trains. "Father McGivney decided, we're going to change this," Burnett said. "So he started the original Knights of Columbus Insurance Group as a pass-the-hat organization in which the members of the Knights of Columbus would give whatever money they could, then that money collected would go to the widow so she could keep her children. That was the founding in 1882, and that mission is still alive today."The Knights are now the largest Catholic fraternal service organization in the world, with more than 16,000 active councils. The organization now donates approximately $200 million to charitable projects each year.

Great Bend Knights set new record with Tootsie Roll Drive

Work will begin soon on a crack repair project on K-4 in Rush County.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves crack repair on K-4 from the Ness/Rush county line to the junction with U.S. 183. The length is 19 miles.

During the work, expected to start around Oct. 26 and end around Nov. 18, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.

Scodeller Construction Inc., of Wixom, Michigan, is the prime contractor for the $244,807 project.

The map below shows the project location, highlighted in red.

For updated information on other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>.

Work will begin soon on a crack repair project on K-4 in Rush County.The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves crack repair on K-4 from the Ness/Rush county line to the junction with U.S. 183. The length is 19 miles.During the work, expected to start around Oct. 26 and end around Nov. 18, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.Scodeller Construction Inc., of Wixom, Michigan, is the prime contractor for the $244,807 project.The map below shows the project location, highlighted in red.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666107486273.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For updated information on other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>.

Crack repair on K-4 in Rush County starting soon

Thirty-one-year-old Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility (LCMHF) resident Tyler Lyon has earned his high school diploma and other career-related certifications through Barton Community College and in the summer of 2025, after six years, he will rejoin society educated and ready to work. He is committed to not becoming reincarcerated, a trend known as recidivism.

“I think the biggest thing my Barton experience has given me is confidence,” he said. “Confidence in myself, to know that if there's something that I set my mind to, I can accomplish it. It took a lot of people, my teachers, Mrs. Barr, pretty much everybody that's been on this staff to say, ‘We see more in you than where you’re at right now.’&nbsp; They kept pushing me and encouraging me.” Lyon joined 47 of his peers Wednesday at the LCMHF Learning Celebration to recognize educational achievements as part of Barton’s Building Academic Skills in Correctional Settings (BASICS) program. A total of 144 workforce training certificates, industry certifications and diplomas were awarded. Barton has been committed to working with the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) to provide education in correctional settings since 2001 because it is a proven method to reduce recidivism.

People might not always sympathize with someone who has been to prison but Lyon said he’s ready to prove to society that residents can have value upon release. “I thought my life was over,” he said. “Nobody in my family has ever been down this path, but leaving prison, whether it be juvenile or adult, with even just a high school diploma, increases your opportunity to stay free. If you continue adding on skills like welding, it just increases the probability of success when you leave this setting. I’m ready to get home so I can show people that there are a lot of guys in here that have talents and skills and abilities that are worth something in society.”

Lyon plans to get his associate degree next and eventually a bachelor’s degree in business and go into construction project management because he loves numbers but also enjoys the hands-on aspect of construction.

“I would love to travel and be able to work in project management because I’d be able to empathize with someone that's maybe out there working with their hands every single day and apply strategies when formulating plans that make sense for them and the business.”

About Barton’s Correctional Education Offerings Barton Community College has partnered with both LCMHF and Ellsworth Correctional Facility (ECF) to bring educational opportunities to residents. Tuition and fees are funded either by the families of residents or private donations from citizens who have recognized the program’s significant benefits to society.

The KDOC states the recidivism rate for Kansas is just above 34% and education has been identified as having a tremendous impact on reducing recidivism, which ultimately saves taxpayers money. According to a report by the Vera Institute of Justice and the Higher Learning Commission, a 2013 RAND Corporation analysis estimating the aggregate effects of education programs in prison showed program participants had 43 percent lower odds of recidivating and 13 percent higher odds of obtaining employment upon release compared to those who did not participate. Additionally, the analysis found that the three-year return on investment for taxpayers is nearly 400 percent, or five dollars saved for every dollar spent. A 2018 RAND study updated the reduction in the odds of recidivism to 48 percent.

For more information on the Barton BASICS program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/BreakTheCycle" target="_blank">bartonccc.edu/breakthecycle</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666015132428.jpeg" alt="LCMHF resident Tyler Lyon poses for a photo in the library before the learning celebration on Wednesday at LCMHF." />
 <figcaption>LCMHF resident Tyler Lyon poses for a photo in the library before the learning celebration on Wednesday at LCMHF.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaThirty-one-year-old Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility (LCMHF) resident Tyler Lyon has earned his high school diploma and other career-related certifications through Barton Community College and in the summer of 2025, after six years, he will rejoin society educated and ready to work. He is committed to not becoming reincarcerated, a trend known as recidivism.“I think the biggest thing my Barton experience has given me is confidence,” he said. “Confidence in myself, to know that if there's something that I set my mind to, I can accomplish it. It took a lot of people, my teachers, Mrs. Barr, pretty much everybody that's been on this staff to say, ‘We see more in you than where you’re at right now.’&nbsp; They kept pushing me and encouraging me.” Lyon joined 47 of his peers Wednesday at the LCMHF Learning Celebration to recognize educational achievements as part of Barton’s Building Academic Skills in Correctional Settings (BASICS) program. A total of 144 workforce training certificates, industry certifications and diplomas were awarded. Barton has been committed to working with the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) to provide education in correctional settings since 2001 because it is a proven method to reduce recidivism.People might not always sympathize with someone who has been to prison but Lyon said he’s ready to prove to society that residents can have value upon release. “I thought my life was over,” he said. “Nobody in my family has ever been down this path, but leaving prison, whether it be juvenile or adult, with even just a high school diploma, increases your opportunity to stay free. If you continue adding on skills like welding, it just increases the probability of success when you leave this setting. I’m ready to get home so I can show people that there are a lot of guys in here that have talents and skills and abilities that are worth something in society.”Lyon plans to get his associate degree next and eventually a bachelor’s degree in business and go into construction project management because he loves numbers but also enjoys the hands-on aspect of construction.“I would love to travel and be able to work in project management because I’d be able to empathize with someone that's maybe out there working with their hands every single day and apply strategies when formulating plans that make sense for them and the business.”About Barton’s Correctional Education Offerings Barton Community College has partnered with both LCMHF and Ellsworth Correctional Facility (ECF) to bring educational opportunities to residents. Tuition and fees are funded either by the families of residents or private donations from citizens who have recognized the program’s significant benefits to society.The KDOC states the recidivism rate for Kansas is just above 34% and education has been identified as having a tremendous impact on reducing recidivism, which ultimately saves taxpayers money. According to a report by the Vera Institute of Justice and the Higher Learning Commission, a 2013 RAND Corporation analysis estimating the aggregate effects of education programs in prison showed program participants had 43 percent lower odds of recidivating and 13 percent higher odds of obtaining employment upon release compared to those who did not participate. Additionally, the analysis found that the three-year return on investment for taxpayers is nearly 400 percent, or five dollars saved for every dollar spent. A 2018 RAND study updated the reduction in the odds of recidivism to 48 percent.For more information on the Barton BASICS program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/BreakTheCycle" target="_blank">bartonccc.edu/breakthecycle</a>.

Larned Correctional residents celebrate educational landmarks through Barton CC

Story by: Michael Dawes, director of public relations, Rosewood Services

As with the past two holiday seasons, $3,000 is up for grabs in prize money for the Christmas Window Decorating Contest in downtown Great Bend, but this year provides an exciting new element to the event. The top prize of $1,500 is now a People’s Choice award, which allows the public to choose the ‘Best Christmas Window’ with their collective winning popular vote.

Ballots and a voting box will be available in front of Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main Street, Great Bend. Details of the voting process will be provided as the holiday season draws closer.

“We’re hoping that by having the public be able to vote on the People’s Choice, it will get more people involved in the process, which might encourage more storefronts to participate, and that could get the community’s Christmas creativity flowing this year,” said the anonymous donor, who is putting up $3,000 in overall prize money, once again, for the three window awards.

In addition to the top prize, the contest will provide a Judges 1st Place award that will pay $1,000 in prize money. The Judges 2nd Place award winner will earn $500 in prize money. A panel of community members will judge the windows for second and third prizes. Boundaries for the window-decorating contest cover 10th to 18th Streets, and from Williams to Kansas Streets in Great Bend.

There are no fees to enter, but participants are responsible for the cost of their decorations. Downtown business owners are encouraged to enter the contest, as well as those individuals who would like to become window decorators.

Applicants who do not have a store window to decorate will be assigned a vacant window in downtown Great Bend, based on availability. Independent decorators also have the option to coordinate with a business owner for window decorating.

Participants must submit their application by 5 p.m. on Nov. 11 to be included in the judging.&nbsp; They must complete decorating by noon on Nov. 21, and judging for the window decorations will run from Nov. 22 – Dec. 2.

Winners will be announced on Dec. 5 through local media channels. Window displays must be family friendly, creative and festive. They will be judged on Originality, Workmanship, General Presentation, and Lights.

“I really love seeing the lights and the creativity from one year to the next,” said the donor. “I commend the businesses and decorators who have met the challenge the past few years. For me, Christmas was always a time to go all out for decorating. One year I’d do a pink tree and the next one I’d maybe do a Santa tree, and the next one maybe a blue tree. My mom gave me that wonderful habit of changing out my décor from year to year.

“I am so enthusiastic about Christmas,” continued the donor.&nbsp; “When I see people going all out in turning Great Bend into a Christmas City in our downtown and throughout the community, it just makes me so happy.”

The ‘Christmas Window Decorating Contest’ is organized by the Rosewood Roots &amp; Wings Santa Committee that also is associated with ‘Santas Around The World,’ the multicultural holiday exhibit, which opens each Christmas season in downtown Great Bend.

Those interested in participating in the Christmas Window Decorating Contest may access rules and an application form at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.santasaroundtheworld.com/" target="_blank">SantasAroundTheWorld.com</a>, or contact Anna at 620-793-5888 to receive an application form.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666026865490.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by: Michael Dawes, director of public relations, Rosewood ServicesAs with the past two holiday seasons, $3,000 is up for grabs in prize money for the Christmas Window Decorating Contest in downtown Great Bend, but this year provides an exciting new element to the event. The top prize of $1,500 is now a People’s Choice award, which allows the public to choose the ‘Best Christmas Window’ with their collective winning popular vote.Ballots and a voting box will be available in front of Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main Street, Great Bend. Details of the voting process will be provided as the holiday season draws closer.“We’re hoping that by having the public be able to vote on the People’s Choice, it will get more people involved in the process, which might encourage more storefronts to participate, and that could get the community’s Christmas creativity flowing this year,” said the anonymous donor, who is putting up $3,000 in overall prize money, once again, for the three window awards.In addition to the top prize, the contest will provide a Judges 1st Place award that will pay $1,000 in prize money. The Judges 2nd Place award winner will earn $500 in prize money. A panel of community members will judge the windows for second and third prizes. Boundaries for the window-decorating contest cover 10th to 18th Streets, and from Williams to Kansas Streets in Great Bend.There are no fees to enter, but participants are responsible for the cost of their decorations. Downtown business owners are encouraged to enter the contest, as well as those individuals who would like to become window decorators.Applicants who do not have a store window to decorate will be assigned a vacant window in downtown Great Bend, based on availability. Independent decorators also have the option to coordinate with a business owner for window decorating.Participants must submit their application by 5 p.m. on Nov. 11 to be included in the judging.&nbsp; They must complete decorating by noon on Nov. 21, and judging for the window decorations will run from Nov. 22 – Dec. 2.Winners will be announced on Dec. 5 through local media channels. Window displays must be family friendly, creative and festive. They will be judged on Originality, Workmanship, General Presentation, and Lights.“I really love seeing the lights and the creativity from one year to the next,” said the donor. “I commend the businesses and decorators who have met the challenge the past few years. For me, Christmas was always a time to go all out for decorating. One year I’d do a pink tree and the next one I’d maybe do a Santa tree, and the next one maybe a blue tree. My mom gave me that wonderful habit of changing out my décor from year to year.“I am so enthusiastic about Christmas,” continued the donor.&nbsp; “When I see people going all out in turning Great Bend into a Christmas City in our downtown and throughout the community, it just makes me so happy.”The ‘Christmas Window Decorating Contest’ is organized by the Rosewood Roots &amp; Wings Santa Committee that also is associated with ‘Santas Around The World,’ the multicultural holiday exhibit, which opens each Christmas season in downtown Great Bend.Those interested in participating in the Christmas Window Decorating Contest may access rules and an application form at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.santasaroundtheworld.com/" target="_blank">SantasAroundTheWorld.com</a>, or contact Anna at 620-793-5888 to receive an application form.

Great Bend Christmas Window Decorating Contest adds People’s Choice award

Housing Opportunities, Inc. (HOI) has taken another step toward building a 28-unit, low-income housing development in Great Bend. 
The Great Bend City Council voted 4-2 to approve an ordinance that annexes a
24-acre lot, behind Walmart, into city limits and being able to connect to the
city’s sanitary sewer.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/dbf8bca8-5398-456d-802f-a7e3809689bf">RELATED STORY: Must be annexed into Great Bend, but housing development given green light </a> 
While HOI still needs to present the development to the Great Bend Planning
Commission and city council, councilmember Alan Moeder voiced concern about
rain water runoff from the development. "We know we're in a drought now, but we're seeing severe storms popping up in certain spots," said Moeder. "I know HOI has a pit they want to put the water in, but where does it go if the pit gets full? Are we going to be liable for it then because we approved it?" 
HOI received nearly $6 million from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation
for the project. 
HOI’s first of three phases calls the 28 units, known as Cambridge Park, which
will give Sunflower Diversified Services first rights to rent the apartments
for their clients with developmental disabilities. Over the span of eight to 10
years, HOI would add 64 housing units.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/52059752-c98d-4175-953d-ab6d15688dd1">RELATED STORY: Barton Commission discusses possible involvement in new housing development</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658333724772.jpeg" alt="Plan for a housing development, south of Walmart in Great Bend. The first phase would add 28 low-income units." />
 <figcaption>Plan for a housing development, south of Walmart in Great Bend. The first phase would add 28 low-income units.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostHousing Opportunities, Inc. (HOI) has taken another step toward building a 28-unit, low-income housing development in Great Bend. 
The Great Bend City Council voted 4-2 to approve an ordinance that annexes a
24-acre lot, behind Walmart, into city limits and being able to connect to the
city’s sanitary sewer.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/dbf8bca8-5398-456d-802f-a7e3809689bf">RELATED STORY: Must be annexed into Great Bend, but housing development given green light </a> 
While HOI still needs to present the development to the Great Bend Planning
Commission and city council, councilmember Alan Moeder voiced concern about
rain water runoff from the development. "We know we're in a drought now, but we're seeing severe storms popping up in certain spots," said Moeder. "I know HOI has a pit they want to put the water in, but where does it go if the pit gets full? Are we going to be liable for it then because we approved it?" 
HOI received nearly $6 million from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation
for the project. 
HOI’s first of three phases calls the 28 units, known as Cambridge Park, which
will give Sunflower Diversified Services first rights to rent the apartments
for their clients with developmental disabilities. Over the span of eight to 10
years, HOI would add 64 housing units.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/52059752-c98d-4175-953d-ab6d15688dd1">RELATED STORY: Barton Commission discusses possible involvement in new housing development</a>

Housing development property annexed into Great Bend city limits

Barton County Sheriff's Office Incident Log (10/18) Driving / Driver Complaint At 7:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at US 281 Highway &amp; SE 70 Road. Controlled Burn At 8:21 a.m. a controlled burn was reported in the 1300 block of NE 120 Road in Claflin. Non-Injury Accident At 8:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 300 block of E. Barton County Road. Traumatic Injuries At 1:43 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 245 NE 30 Road. Structure Fire At 3:32 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2433 24th Street. Controlled Burn At 4:42 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 87 SW 10 Avenue. Non-Injury Accident At 5:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 2007 E. 1st in Pratt. Convulsions / Seizures At 6:38 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 320 Marla Street. Animal Complain At 7:20 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 102 Chisholm Trl. Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (10/18)

At 12:02 a.m. a loud vehicle in the area was reported at 408 Walnut Street.

At 7:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2123 Main Street.

At 8:44 a.m. an accident was reported at Eisenhower &amp; Ridgeway.

At 1:47 p.m. possible computer crime was reported at 2535 Lakin Avenue.

At 3:32 p.m. a house fire was reported at 2433 24th Street.

At 4:17 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2407 10th Street.

At 7:51 p.m. an accident was reported at 1000 Main Street.

At 8:05 p.m. a fire investigation was reported at 2433 24th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff's Office Incident Log (10/18) Driving / Driver Complaint At 7:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at US 281 Highway &amp; SE 70 Road. Controlled Burn At 8:21 a.m. a controlled burn was reported in the 1300 block of NE 120 Road in Claflin. Non-Injury Accident At 8:46 a.m. an accident was reported in the 300 block of E. Barton County Road. Traumatic Injuries At 1:43 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 245 NE 30 Road. Structure Fire At 3:32 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2433 24th Street. Controlled Burn At 4:42 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 87 SW 10 Avenue. Non-Injury Accident At 5:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 2007 E. 1st in Pratt. Convulsions / Seizures At 6:38 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 320 Marla Street. Animal Complain At 7:20 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 102 Chisholm Trl. Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (10/18)Noise ComplaintAt 12:02 a.m. a loud vehicle in the area was reported at 408 Walnut Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:42 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2123 Main Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:44 a.m. an accident was reported at Eisenhower &amp; Ridgeway.TheftAt 1:47 p.m. possible computer crime was reported at 2535 Lakin Avenue.Structure FireAt 3:32 p.m. a house fire was reported at 2433 24th Street.Animal ComplaintAt 4:17 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2407 10th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:51 p.m. an accident was reported at 1000 Main Street.Fire InvestigationAt 8:05 p.m. a fire investigation was reported at 2433 24th Street.

Cop Shop (10/18)

Correction: The story was updated to clarify the name of the proposed charge and the date and time of the Board of Directors' meeting.&nbsp;

This week, area residents will have the opportunity to hear directly from
Midwest Energy about proposed changes to how residential and small business
customers will be billed for their energy consumption.

The proposal would change billing from a two-part rate structure to a three-part
structure, with the inclusion of a "demand" charge for residential and small-business customers across their footprint.

The change would align the company with many other electric companies across
the region and is designed to create a pricing structure that better reflects
the demand placed on the system by customer energy usage.

The change would be phased in over four years and, without consumption
changes, would likely have little impact on customer bills as the demand charge
is offset by a decreasing energy charge, according to Mike Morley, director of corporate
communications and government affairs.

“I think
for the vast majority of people, there is going to be very, very little impact,”
Morley said. “Either way, they'll either be saving a little bit of money or
they'll be paying a little bit more, but we're talking about just a couple of
bucks a month.”

He said examples of bills as they would read now and how it would look after
the change have been posted to the Midwest Energy website.

“We've picked out some real-world examples of Midwest Energy
customers,” Morley said. “And what you're seeing when you do that, in three of
the four scenarios that we just kind of randomly picked … only in one of the
scenarios was the bill higher. And it was about $4 higher per month in year
four than it is today.”

If
adopted, the demand charge will be revenue neutral for the cooperative.

“As [the
demand charge] is introduced, the energy [charge] cost goes down,” Morley said.
“The energy cost today is 7.8 cents. By the end of year four, it's down to 4.2
cents. So even though people are starting to pay a little bit for demand, they
will be paying less for their energy charge.”

But he
said with the addition of a demand charge, Morley said customers have more
control over their bills.

Today to save money, a customer must lessen energy usage, but with the addition of the
demand charge, customers can save by lowering usage or by limiting their usage
at one time.

“The
point of the demand [charge] is to send a price signal that customers who put a
heavier stress on the grid should pay for putting the heavier stress on the
grid,” Morley said. “They should pay for that. The customers who don't stress
the grid as much shouldn't have to pay quite as much.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666112034693.jpg" alt="Images courtesy Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Images courtesy Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>Correction: The story was updated to clarify the name of the proposed charge and the date and time of the Board of Directors' meeting.&nbsp;By JAMES BELL Hays PostThis week, area residents will have the opportunity to hear directly from
Midwest Energy about proposed changes to how residential and small business
customers will be billed for their energy consumption.The proposal would change billing from a two-part rate structure to a three-part
structure, with the inclusion of a "demand" charge for residential and small-business customers across their footprint.The change would align the company with many other electric companies across
the region and is designed to create a pricing structure that better reflects
the demand placed on the system by customer energy usage.The change would be phased in over four years and, without consumption
changes, would likely have little impact on customer bills as the demand charge
is offset by a decreasing energy charge, according to Mike Morley, director of corporate
communications and government affairs.“I think
for the vast majority of people, there is going to be very, very little impact,”
Morley said. “Either way, they'll either be saving a little bit of money or
they'll be paying a little bit more, but we're talking about just a couple of
bucks a month.”He said examples of bills as they would read now and how it would look after
the change have been posted to the Midwest Energy website.“We've picked out some real-world examples of Midwest Energy
customers,” Morley said. “And what you're seeing when you do that, in three of
the four scenarios that we just kind of randomly picked … only in one of the
scenarios was the bill higher. And it was about $4 higher per month in year
four than it is today.”<h2>A revenue-neutral proposition</h2>If
adopted, the demand charge will be revenue neutral for the cooperative.“As [the
demand charge] is introduced, the energy [charge] cost goes down,” Morley said.
“The energy cost today is 7.8 cents. By the end of year four, it's down to 4.2
cents. So even though people are starting to pay a little bit for demand, they
will be paying less for their energy charge.”But he
said with the addition of a demand charge, Morley said customers have more
control over their bills.Today to save money, a customer must lessen energy usage, but with the addition of the
demand charge, customers can save by lowering usage or by limiting their usage
at one time.“The
point of the demand [charge] is to send a price signal that customers who put a
heavier stress on the grid should pay for putting the heavier stress on the
grid,” Morley said. “They should pay for that. The customers who don't stress
the grid as much shouldn't have to pay quite as much.”Ultimately
the new three-part structure proposal creates billing that better reflects the effect
of their usage on the system.“It is a
much more accurate way to bill people for the impact that they put on the grid
and for the energy that they themselves use instead of just becoming an average
residential customer and a statistic,” Morley said. “It's a very, very
specific and very accurate way to bill.”<h2>Lower
peak demand=lower cost</h2>When Midwest
Energy purchases energy, it is also subject to demand charges, so if overall
demand can be lowered, Morley said the company could save costs that would be
spread across the cooperative.“We have
to have a grid that can meet our highest capacity for the year, and we pay for
that year-round, even though we only use that capacity for just a couple of
days out of the year,” Morley said. “The analogy we use is that we paid to
build and maintain a four-lane highway that's used as a four-lane highway once
a year, but the rest of the year, we get by just fine with two lanes of traffic.“For
Midwest Energy, our peak demand as a system, about 350 megawatts is our
absolute peak, and we'll hit that usually for just a couple days in July or
August,” Morley continued. “The rest of the year, we're below 200. … That’s why
we're trying to send a price signal that how you use electricity is just as
important as how much electricity.”While
new to small business and residential customers of Midwest Energy, the demand
charge has been adopted by other utilities with increasing frequency in recent
years.And many
industrial customers across their footprint have been subject to a demand
charge for over a decade.If
adopted, the demand rates will be placed on customer bills beginning Jan. 1.
Demand rates are also currently available for customers in their online
accounts.During
the first year, however, the demand rate is for informational purposes only.“We’re serious about trying to educate people about this change. For the first year, demand will appear on bills, but with a $0 charge,” Morley
said. “We want people to get comfortable with seeing demand on their bill. We
want people to have a whole year of experience, so they know in the summer,
this is my typical demand in the winter ... and have an
understanding of how that works.”Small
businesses would then begin being billed for demand
charges Jan. 1, 2023, he said. Residential customers would see amounts associated with the charge appear Jan. 1, 2024. At the same time, a lower energy charge will offset
the new demand charge.&nbsp;“For residential and small business customers,
as demand charges increase during the multiyear phase-in, energy charges will
decrease,” according to the company. “The $28 per month customer charge for
residential, and the $35 monthly customer charge for small businesses, would
not change.” &nbsp;A series
of meetings is underway across the area that will provide area residents the
opportunity to hear more about the proposal. A
meeting is planned for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 19 in Great Bend at Great Bend Front Door, 1615 10th St.Another is planned for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 20 in Hays at the Hilton
Garden Inn, 221&nbsp;W. 43rd St.&nbsp;“If
anyone does have questions or concerns, come to the meeting,” Morley said. “We
have a short presentation, it's about 15 slides, it's not a long one, and we
leave plenty of time for Q and A. But what we've seen is that those who see the
presentation, they have a much better understanding of demand and what the
impacts are going to be to them afterward.”He said the
company is also happy to look at individual situations to show the perspective impact
on bills as the proposal is phased in.The
Midwest Energy Board of Directors will vote on the proposal during a public
meeting at 1 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Hays Midwest Energy office, 1330 Canterbury.For
more information on the proposed rates, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/residential/demand_rates">www.mwenergy.com/residential/demand_rates</a>.