Barton County Source 2021-2022

Barton County

 - 

ALBERT  BEAVER  CLAFLIN  ELLINWOOD  GALATIA  GREAT BEND  HOISINGTON  ODIN  OLMITZ  PAWNEE ROCK  SUSANK

Where Your Journey Begins

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Barton County Source

ON THE

COVER

Artist Ryan “ARCY” Christenson’s mural of a B-29 bomber pilot Barton County

2021-2022 Barton County Source is jammed full of valuable, handy information collected on Barton County and its communities of Albert, Beaver, Claflin, Ellinwood, Galatia, Great Bend, Hoisington, Odin, Olmitz, Pawnee Rock, Susank, and our neighbor, Larned.

Keep it handy, we are sure you will find it a useful and reliable reference tool throughout the year.

 - 

ALBERT  BEAVER  CLAFLIN  ELLINWOOD  GALATIA  GREAT BEND  HOISINGTON  ODIN  OLMITZ  PAWNEE ROCK  SUSANK

Published by The Great Bend Tribune PUBLISHER Mary Hoisington ADVERTISING Tammy Mason, Sales Sophia Kratz, Sales COMPOSITION Karma Byers Daniel Kiewel GRAPHIC DESIGN Hugo Gonzalez PHOTOS The Staff of the Great Bend Tribune and Courtesy Photos WRITERS Dale Hogg Veronica Coons Susan Thacker Jim Misunas Daniel Kiewel

SOMETHING MISSING? Did we leave something out of Barton Source 2021-2022?

If so we apologize.

If we overlooked your agency or event, or if details have changed since the publication of the Barton County Source, please call 620-792-1211, ask for Mary and help us update this handy guide for next year.

Go online at www.gbtribune.com OR call to subscribe

620-792-1211 • 800-950-8742 2012 Forest Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau................................................... 6 City of Great Bend ......................................................................................... 7 Great Bend Tribune ....................................................................................... 8 Calendar of Events ........................................................................................ 9 Great Bend Chamber of Commerce ........................................................10-11 Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo ...................................................................12-13 Great Bend Recreation Commission .......................................................14-15 Kansas Wetlands Education Center ............................................................. 16 Wetlands Waterpark .................................................................................... 17 Cheyenne Bottoms...................................................................................... 18 Hunting Barton County ................................................................................ 19 The Best of Water Worlds ............................................................................ 20 Fishing in Barton County ............................................................................. 21 Play Ball! .................................................................................................... 22 Golf............................................................................................................. 23 Making Barton County Bike Friendly............................................................ 24 Dining Possibilities For a Night Out Or a Sweet Treat ..............................25-27 Great Bend Farm, Ranch and Hemp Expo .................................................... 28 Barton County Fair ...................................................................................... 29 SRCA Dragstrip ........................................................................................... 30 There’s Plenty To Do In Barton County ....................................................31-33 Points of Interest ....................................................................................34-35 Travel ......................................................................................................... 36 Fine a Fur-Ever Friend ................................................................................. 37 Larned ...................................................................................................38-42 Great Bend Appliance, Furniture and SleepSource ....................................... 43 Ag Makes Profound Economic Impact ....................................................44-47 Oil, Barton County Long-Time Partners........................................................ 48 Service Directory ........................................................................................ 49 Education ..............................................................................................50-52 Immunizations ............................................................................................ 53 Worship .................................................................................................55-57 Medical Services ...................................................................................58-67 Barton County Historical Society Museum and Village ................................. 68 Senior Services......................................................................................69-70 Get Involved ................................................................................................ 71 Support in Need .....................................................................................72-75 Recycling .................................................................................................... 76 Community Caring ...................................................................................... 77 Clubs and Organizations ........................................................................78-79 Take a Break at Veterans Memorial Park ..................................................... 80 A Hidden Gem............................................................................................. 81 Emergency Hotlines .................................................................................... 82 First Responders ......................................................................................... 83 Barton County ........................................................................................84-85 Barton County Elected Officials ................................................................... 86 Barton County Department Directory ........................................................... 87 It’s the Law ................................................................................................. 88 State and National Government................................................................... 89 Barton County Township Map...................................................................... 90 Township Officials....................................................................................... 91 Albert.......................................................................................................... 92 Beaver ........................................................................................................ 93 Claflin ......................................................................................................... 94 Ellinwood ...............................................................................................95-96 Galatia ........................................................................................................ 97 Great Bend ..........................................................................................98-100 Hoisington .........................................................................................101-103 Odin.......................................................................................................... 104 Olmitz ....................................................................................................... 105 Pawnee Rock ............................................................................................ 106 Susank ..................................................................................................... 107

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GREAT BEND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

The Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is located inside the front of the Great Bend Events Center at 3111 10th Street. The office is perfectly located with the Events Center because CVB staff books and bids on big events and conventions for the Events Center and Great Bend in general. The Events Center is designated as a Kansas Travel Information Center which partners with State Travel & Tourism which is a resource for the State of Kansas tourism opportunities.

Since 2019, major renovations have been a goal for the Great Bend Events Center. In 2021, the City officially opened the newly renovated back area as breakout rooms, extra office space and it now is the home of the Great Bend Economic Development (a separate entity working to better Great Bend). The next goal is to completely update the front bathrooms.

The CVB is part of Community Coordinator/CVB Director Christina Hayes’ department. CVB staff includes Emily Goad, Visitor Coordinator and Missy Pflughoeft, Visitor Representative. The CVB is 100% funded by Transient Guest Tax from hotel stays and 1% of that Guest Tax helps fund the Events Center along with revenue from events. The Great Bend City Council still strives to make the Events Center a premier event location for our area to improve the quality of life of residents! Larami Parsons, Administrative Assistant is another staff member that is located down at City Hall.

The staff works hard to promote Great Bend in various ways. Christina’s goals for her department include getting Great Bend’s attractions, events, fun things to do and places to stay out to a bigger area of the state, Recruitment of new conventions, tournaments and meetings to town. Continue to provide hospitality program for hotels, gas stations, businesses and doctors’ offices so the front lines of our community know what’s happening in town.

Every two years the CVB will design and distribute a new Visitor Guide for Great Bend, get our community’s name out there as a real presence in the state, effectively market and promote the Events Center as the premier location for Events and work with the area to bring people to our wonderful town!

CVB Board Members Chairperson: Allene Owen, Vice Chair: Mark Mingenback Members: Wally Eldridge Lacey Scholfield Jan Westfall Jolene Biggs Kyle Walters Claudia Elsen Loren Unruh Cory & Katie Zimmerman Diann Henderson Curtis Wolf Non-voting members: Mayor Cody Schmidt Kendal Francis Megan Barfield Sara Hayden Shawna Schafer Christina Hayes

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Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo Kansas Wetlands Educationy Center Beautiful Playgrounds & Parks SRCA Drag Strip &y Racing Wetlands & Wildlife National Scenic Byway Hike & Bike Trails Long Pumpkin Patch Explore Great Bend Month Santa’s Around the World Christmas Craft Mall Trail of Lights & Christmas Festival

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SRCA D ragstr ip GREAT BEND BRIT SPAUGH ZOO s! stival Fun Fe

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www.exploregreatbend.com 6

Barton County Source

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Great Bend Tribune 620-792-1211, 800-950-TRIB (8742) www.gbtribune.com 2012 Forest, Great Bend

The Great Bend Tribune What’s in it for you?

If you’re not reading the Great Bend Tribune, there’s a good chance you’re missing out on some of the news about what’s going on in central Kansas.

The Great Bend Tribune has been the Golden Belt’s GREAT trusted source BEND for community news for more 140 years. tribune.com than We are focused on providing professional, accurate news about Barton County and its closest neighbors, whether you choose to have the paper delivered to your home or receive the news digitally on a computer, tablet or smartphone.

The Tribune website, www.gbtribune. com, allows subscribers to view the entire paper online or search our archives. There are also links to our top news stories, sports, opinions and obituaries, as well as special editions (including the Barton County Source), Newspapers in Education, job listings and classified ads.

The Tribune also provides the best way to get the word out when you have news to share, events to promote or products to sell. The Tribune continues to be a trustworthy news source reaching thousands of people in our area.

Tribune

Stay connected with your community WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU The Tribune is on social media and also has a Facebook group, “Great Bend Connect.” This is a family-friendly

forum where readers can share fun ideas, connections and positive connections.

The Tribune publishes letters from our readers in the Public Forum on the opinion page.

Birth announcements, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries can be published for a small fee.

Press releases and letters to the editor can be mailed to the Tribune or dropped off at 2012 Forest Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Emails may be sent to Managing Editor Dale Hogg at dhogg@gbtribune.com.

Sports news can be sent to Jim Misunas at jmisunas@gbtribune.com.

The general reporter email is news@ gbtribune.com or look on the website, www.gbtribune.com.

For more information you can call the newsroom, 620-792-1211 or 800-950-8742.

Past copies and special sections, as well as end rolls of newsprint, can be purchased as long as they are available.

Home delivery is available via carrier or mail service. Single issues may be purchased at the Tribune or from racks and dealers located throughout our service area.

Responding to COVID-19 Ever since COVID-19 reached our communities in 2020, the Tribune has been there. As a community service, we offer free access to online stories about the pandemic. We also created a new Facebook group, “Great Bend Cares.” The group allows its 3,900 members to post news and questions about community services and resources available to those who may been in need. It is specifically focused on COVID-19.

Facebook: facebook.com/gbtribune Twitter: @GB_Tribune Instagram: @gbtribune Pinterest: @gbtribune Classified ads may be submitted online at www. gbtribune.com/classifieds Online subscriptions are available as well as online subscription payment.

Great Bend Tribune At A Glance Number of Employees – 16 Number of City Carriers Great Bend — 5 Ellinwood — 1 Larned — 1 Claflin — 1 Pawnee Rock — 1 St. John — 1 Motor Routes — Olmitz, Bushton, Holyrood, Albert, Otis, Heizer Dealers: Ampride – 2302 10th St. Casey’s – 1315 10th St. Casey’s – 2716 10th St. Dillons – 1811 Main St. Dillons – 4107 10th St. Dollar General – 5318 10th St. Dollar General – 2400 10th St. Kwik Shop – 2334 Main St. Kwik Shop – 3907 Broadway Ave. Circle K/Pantry – 2337 Washington St. Walgreens – 3920 10th St. Walmart – 3503 10th St. Racks: 2012 Forest Ave. 2100 16th St. 3620 10th St. 1649 K-96 3929 10th St. 17th & Washington 3220 10th St. 1110 Main St. 1000 Main St. 1221 10th St. 2010 10th St. 10th & Stone St. Did you know?

Tons of paper used a year: 114 or 228,000 pounds. One roll of newsprint weighs about 656 pounds.

Miles of paper in a paper roll: If a roll were unrolled it would stretch 156,233 feet or 29.5 miles.

Pounds of ink used a year: Black ink — 1,895 Colored ink — 1,080

Welcome To Our City!

City Offices Shop Stay Play Grow

Administration......................................793-4111 Airport ..................................................793-4168 Cemetery .............................................793-4167 Convention & Visitors Bureau ..............792-2750 Events Center Booking ...................792-2750 Fire Department #1..............................793-4140 Building Inspection .........................793-4140 Fire Department #2..............................793-4145 Code Enforcement ..........................793-4106 Municipal Court....................................793-4149 Public Lands/Parks ...............................793-4160 Public Works.........................................793-4150 Street Division .................................793-4150 Property Maintenance Division.......793-4150 Water Division .................................793-4170 Water Emergency .......................793-4100 Front Door (Sewer & Water Payments) .... 793-4100 Sewer & Wastewater Division .........793-4170 Police Po Department ...............................793-4120 *In Case of an Emergency call 911

From the top: Great Bend Air Fest, Wetlands Waterpark, Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo, SRCA Drag Strip

City Attractions

Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo

Great Bend Sports Complex

2123 Main St/281 Hwy 620-793-4226

41 McKinley St. 620-793-4111

Wetlands Waterpark

City Parks & Recrea

2130 Main St/281 Hwy 620-792-1516

(Vets, Jack Kilby, K-96 Park, Brit Spaugh, Stone Lake & More!)

620-793-4160

Great Bend Events Center

n

3111 10th St 620-792-2750

Great Bend Expo Complex & SRCA Dragstrip 455 W Barton County Rd. 620-793-4111

Explore Great Bend

1209 Williams • Great Bend, KS 67530

www.greatbendks.net Barton County Source

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Calendar of Events

GREAT BEND 2021 September 10.................... GBMX Hans Supercross Race 10-11 .............. SRCA Races 16.................... Third Thursday Food Trucks with Summer Street Stroll 16.................... Ladies Night Out-Poker Night 16.................... Sunflower Diversified Pancake Feed 17-19 .............. Great Bend Airfest 18.................... Pontiac Uprising Race 28.................... 23rd Annual Great Bend Tribune’s Women’s Expo 24-25 .............. SRCA Races *Summer Street Stroll Season Ends October 1...................... F&E Auto Auction 2...................... Rosewood Rodeo 3...................... Beef N’ Brew 8-9 .................. SRCA Races 16.................... Walk To End Alzheimer’s 22-23 .............. SRCA Races 30.................... Downtown Halloween Parade November 6...................... Explore GB Month: Mingling & Mimosas 13.................... Explore GB Month: Open Houses 20.................... Explore GB Month: Find A Turkey 20.................... SRCA Awards Banquet 26.................... Explore GB Month: Black Friday 27.................... Home for the Holidays Festival & Parade - Cookie Contest - Small Business Saturday - Explore Great Bend Month Winner Chosen - Santas Around the World Opens - Trail of Lights Begins December 1...................... Hometown Rewards Starts 20.................... Last Day for Santas Around the World 20.................... Santa leaves for the North Pole 30.................... Last Day for Ice Skating 31.................... Trail of Lights End

2022 January 15.....................Central Kansas Health & Wellness Expo 15.....................Cabin Fever Relief Sale

February 1.......................I Heart GB Promo 5.......................CASA Chocolate Auction 19.....................Chamber of Commerce Banquet 2.......................I Heart GB Promo Final Winner Chosen 26.....................Sunflower Diversified Services Gala March 17.....................Ladies Night Out 19-20 ..............Eagle Communications Home & Garden Expo 19.....................Dilly & Doc Pop-Up Market 25.....................Family Crisis Center’s Bunco Night April 6-8 ...................Farm, Ranch and Hemp Expo 9.......................Stores Pay The Sales Tax Promo 9.......................M&M Craft Fair 28.....................BCC Job Fest 29.....................Catholic Charities Wine Tasting May 4-7 ...................KCAC Championship Tournament 5.......................Art & Wine Walk 7.......................Cinco De Mayo in the Square 12.....................Summer Street Stroll Starts 26-27 ...............KSHSAA 2-1A State Baseball Championship June 1-15 .................June Jaunt Monopoly In Stores 3-5 ...................June Jaunt Festival 3.......................Free Outdoor Movie 10.....................Barton County Relay for Life July 3.......................City Fireworks Display 5-9 ...................Barton County Fair 14-16 ...............Summer Sidewalk Sale 22-29 ...............Christmas in July 23.....................Bike Brew Q August 11.....................Ladies Night Out 13.....................Party in the Park 20.....................United Way Kickoff For more events go to the following websites: www.greatbendks.net www.exploregreatbend.com www.greatbend.org

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ALBERT 2022 March TBD ................. Pancake Feed Fundraiser and Raffle

CLAFLIN 2021 December TBD ................. Christmas Events TBD

ELLINWOOD 2021 September 23.................... Ladies Night Out on the Brick Streets 25.................... Fall City Wide Garage Sales Main Street Sidewalk Sales December 5...................... 9th Annual Christkindlmarket

2022 April 30.................... Spring City Wide Garage Sales July 14-16 .............. 49th Annual After Harvest Festival Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce: www.ellinwoodchamber.com

HOISINGTON 2021 September 3-6 .................. Labor Day Celebration 3-6 ...................BBQ, Carnival & Midway 4.......................KIDStop, Street Market, BBQ Cook-off, Poker Run, Carnival & Midway, Concert 5.......................Demolition Derby, Carnival & Midway, Street Dance 6.......................125th Annual Labor Day Parade, Carnival & Midway

2022 September 2-5 .................. 126th Annual Labor Day Celebration Hoisington Chamber of Commerce: www.hoisingtonkansas.com All Schedules Subject To Change.

11

GB Chamber celebrates 100 years of service The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce marked 2021 as its 100th anniversary being “Boosters for a Greater Great Bend.”

In June, downtown Great Bend’s Jack Kilby Square was the sight for a special ribbon cutting ceremony and the signing

by Mayor Cody Schmidt of a proclamation declaring 2021 the chamber’s 100th anniversary year.

“I am so honored and privileged to be here at this important moment in history,” current GBCC President Megan Barfield said. “Maybe in another hundred years, they will see this amazing community that stands behind its businesses.”

In May of 1921, a band of dedicated local business owners and civic leaders, men and women, came together to form the chamber. A month later, a roster of the membership went out with such names as Charles Lischesky, Earl Moses and Will Townsley (owner of Tribune Publishing). They called themselves Boosters for a Greater Great Bend.

Now, 100 years later with over 550 members, it continues to serve as the voice for businesses and growth, Barfield said.

Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis read the proclamation.

“Our local Chamber of Commerce unceasingly promotes our community for quality growth and development,” he read. “The business community, in Great Bend sees the driving force of helping educate, bring opportunity, show partnership, deliver service and lead a positive vision of the future.”

It goes on to say “the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce has sought to achieve successful results for our city in a cooperative spirit with other organizations; and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce has proudly represented the business community in Great Bend and Barton County for 100 years.”

In addition, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly also issued a proclamation honoring the occasion.

“What an honor to have this acknowledgement from our state capitol,” Barfield said.

The gubernatorial statement mirrored the city’s. It also noted that the GBCC is among 144 chambers of commerce in Kansas that “distinguish themselves as the voice of business in our state, and the work accomplished by those local chambers has benefited our state through their service and dedication to the business communities.”

The COVID-19 pandemic

forced the cancelation of the annual in-person banquet in February which was replaced by a virtual event.

However, plans are in the works for the 100th-annual

banquet in 2022, and the anniversary will take center stage at that gala.

For more information on the chamber, call 620-792-2401 or visit www.greatbend.org.

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Get Wild at Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo

O

pen year-round (except Christmas and Thanksgiving days) from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Great Bend’s Brit Spaugh Zoo is fun and educational — and admission is free!

The zoo is dedicated to the conservation, preservation and rescue of animals and to the education and entertainment of children and adults. The zoo staff also treats wounded birds of prey, known as raptors.

Recent improvements In 2021 the zoo opened a new exhibit inside its main building, The Raptor Center. It features 26 small animals, including those that were previously housed in the Education Building, as well as freshwater and saltwater aquariums. The new exhibit provides an improved viewing experience for visitors and better environmental control for the animals. Meanwhile, the “Ed Shed” is undergoing renovation and will eventually return to its original purpose as a room for educational programs, meetings and parties.

(Top) Capybaras are the largest species of rodents on Earth.

(Left) Toby is the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo’s African Leopard.

Outdoors, construction was finished on the Bill McKown Memorial Pavilion, a handicap accessible gazebo located next to a freshwater pond.

Visitors can enjoy this shaded area and feed the fish and waterfowl.

A sidewalk was added around the reptile building where the tortoises and larger snakes are housed. Zoo Supervisor and Curator Ashley Burdick noted that this much-needed improvement now allows better accessibility for those in wheelchairs and strollers.

Ashley Burdick, rdick, supervisor and curator or at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh gh Zoo, is shown in front of the e new display area, which opened ened in 2021.

New animals A long-awaited addition arrived in 2020, when the bison exhibit opened. Like the grizzly bear exhibit that opened in 2018, this modern addition was made possible with a grant from the Dorothy M. Morrison Foundation. In 2020, the zoo added a two-dimensional, 7.5-foot tall bear sign near the exhibit to illustrate how big grizzly bears can be.

Other new animals added in 2021 include a green tree python, a pot-bellied pig, an axolotl (a relative of the tiger salamander), and two capybaras — the largest rodent species on Earth.

EXPLORE OUR FREE ZOO FREE ADMISSION 2123 MAIN STREET GREAT BEND, KS OPEN 9AM-4:30 DAILY

w www.greatbendzoo.com Barton County Source

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Rec c buil lds c ommun nity th hrou ugh par rtnerrship ps, re elationshipss builds community through partnerships, relationships

O

ur role is to (provide) that enrichment within the community, offering affordable and fun programming for people of all ages,” said GBRC Aquatics, Adaptive and Enrichment Director Megan Hammeke.

And for The Rec, improving quality of life in the community means partnering with other community organizations such as the city of Great Bend and USD 428 to provide high quality facilities that are affordable and accessible for all, whether they are residents or visitors to the community.

Through those partnerships, in 2020 and 2021, the Rec has undertaken or supported improvements at several area facilities such as the Veterans Park tennis courts, new lighting at the Veterans Park baseball fields, field improvements at the Great Bend Sports Complex, helping maintain or upgrade multiple area playgrounds, and more.

“It’s very important to us to be able to offer high quality programming to keep our community having fun and growing,” Hammeke said.

The Rec offers a variety of group and individual recreation activities, programs and facilities for people of all ages.

Hammeke wants people to know The Rec is about far more than just its sports programs. There are programs and classes for youth and adults, senior citizens, and special populations. GBRC has sports programs from youth instructional to adult leagues. Swimming lessons are taught in the summer and special kids activities are offered throughout the year.

Available programs include arts, crafts, leisure, fitness, educational programs and more.

But the goal is about more than just improving the physical health of

the community - its about building relationships.

“Hopefully people are making lifelong friendships (through Rec programs),” Hammeke said. “As long as (people) are out and involved, getting to meet with people, it makes for a lifelong, happy life.”

The Jean Cavanaugh Wellness Center is an affordable option for people looking to stay in shape through exercise, and the MyBackyard Playground at the Great Bend Activity Center is available for parents with active youngsters looking for an outdoor place to play.

Enrollment for The Rec’s programs is available both in person and online.

Program and activity schedules are mailed or can be viewed online at www. greatbendrec.com.

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Barton County Source

15

Experience the Wetlands What comes to your mind when someone says Cheyenne Bottoms? So many local residents have memories and stories of their experiences at Cheyenne Bottoms. It’s a local jewel and an amazing natural resource we can all be proud of.

Cheyenne Bottoms is a 41,000 acre wetland complex designated a Wetland of International Importance due to its importance as a stopover for migrating birds along the Central Flyway.

More than 350 species of birds have been documented at the wetlands. Ducks, geese, herons, egrets, cranes, pelicans, and sandpipers are commonly seen throughout the year.

Birds are not the only visitors to the largest wetland on the interior of the United States.

9LVLWRUV IURP DOO RYHU WKH 8QLWHG 6WDWHV DQG HYHQ RWKHU FRXQWULHV ÁRFN WR WKH ZHWODQGV WR ELUG watch, hunt, and to see the expansive landscape and wildlife.

The wetlands include the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area managed by Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism and the Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy. Visitors can easily immerse themselves in the wetlands by vehicle by driving raised dike roads and county roads through the wetlands. Check out the observation tower located at the K-4 Highway overlook for one of the best views of the wetlands.

The Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC) is your one-stop shop for every visit to Cheyenne Bottoms and is located at Cheyenne Bottoms along K-156 highway 10 miles northeast of Great Bend. The 11,000 square foot museum operated by Fort Hays State University is home to the Koch Wetlands Exhibit gallery with newly renovated interactive exhibits, a classroom with live animal exhibits, an auditorium, and the Wetlands Gift Store. Admission is free! Van tours, a nature trail, a pollinator garden, and many public programs provide a glimpse of what Kansas ZHWODQGV DUH DQG ZKDW \RX FDQ ÀQG LQ WKHP $VN WR ZDWFK WKH QHZ PLQXWH LQIRUPDWLRQDO YLGHR about Cheyenne Bottoms! Staff at the KWEC will answer your questions about the wetlands and give advice for how you can experience Cheyenne Bottoms.

The KWEC is open Monday through Saturday 9a.m. to 5p.m. and Sunday 1-5p.m. The Center is closed on Mondays from November 1 through March 31 and on major holidays.

The KWEC offers a wide selection of public programs and events throughout the year. Check the KWEC website (http://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu) for more information or call 877-243-9268.

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Hunter Appreciation Breakfast (October), Star Gazing (October), KWEC Holiday Open House (December), Winter Kids nature programs (February), Greater Prairie Chicken Lek Tours (April), Wings & Wetlands Birding Festival (odd years in April), Summer Kids nature camps (July), and many other public programs throughout the year.

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Barton County Source

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17

Wetlands Waterpark W hen summer arrives, there’s one local attraction that’s guaranteed to make a summer splash: the Great Bend aquatic center – Wetlands Waterpark.

Weather permitting, the pool is open from 12:30-5:30 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend in May to mid-August. Once things heat up, the pool is also open for Family Nights from 7-9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It’s located in Brit Spaugh Park at 2303 Main St., next to the Brit Spaugh Zoo. More than just a municipal swimming pool, the water park’s fun wetlands artwork and big play features make it a unique, regional attraction.

The pool features seven water slides, zerodepth entry for small children, spray features and floatables that separate the deep end from the shallow end, a climbing wall and a 300 gallon tipping bucket that periodically spills onto those who dare to stand under it.

For those taking a break in the shaded areas, there are brightly colored umbrellas and a concession stand. Visitors can also find green grass and a bathhouse for changing.

Admission to the Wetlands is $3 for

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youths 3-17 years old, $4 for adults 18 and older, and free for children under 3. Admission on Family Nights is $2, and discount passes good for 15 visits are available for $40.

The aquatic center is also available for private parties and special events. For more information call 620-792-1516 during the pool season. Outside of the pool season contact Parks Superintendent Scott Keeler at the City Office, 620-793-4111.

Swimming lessons The Great Bend Recreation Commission offers summer swimming lessons taught by American Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructors and GBRC water safety aides.

For more information contact Recreation Program Coordinator Megan Hammeke by calling 620-792-2604.

Summer Jobs The pool supplies dozens of summer jobs for persons 15 years of age and older. For 2021 there were 35 lifeguards and 10 concession staff. To apply for a lifeguard position, you must be at least 16 years old and able to complete the Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Class before the pool season starts. This

class is taught by the Great Bend Recreation Commission over spring break. For more information, call Pool Manager Megan Hammeke at the GBRC, 620-793-3755, or email mhammeke@gbrec.net Employment applications are available at the City Administration Building at 1209 Williams St. The selection for these seasonal positions takes place during the months of January and February, so for best results submit your application early. The City of Great Bend provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals. For more information call 620-793-4111.

Before and after the season ends After the pool is filled and before it opens for the summer, it is often a training site.

The lifeguards arrive early for training, but they aren’t the only ones. The Great Bend Fire Department’s search and rescue team members sometimes use the pool for dive training.

Just after the pool closes in August, there is a one-day event for canines and their human friends, “Bark at the Water Park.” Admission goes toward upkeep of the dog park in Veterans Memorial Park, another city feature.

18

Cheyenne Bottoms

a Natural

Gem T

he environmentally critical Cheyenne Bottoms and the adjoining Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a branch of Fort Hays State University’s Sternberg Museum, make two of the most treasured assets for local residents and visitors alike.

The center opened 12 years ago. During 2018, the KWEC saw its most significant enhancement project to its exhibit hall. This follows the installation of 12 new exhibit features, including 14 interactive pieces telling the complex story of the wetland’s ecosystem.

The facility also sponsors numerous educational programs for children and adults throughout the year. In 2019, it had contact with nearly 27,526 visitors and program participants.

Across the highway is the sprawling Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. Most of it is managed by the state, but there is also the 7,694 acre Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy.

The bottoms has long been a mecca for bird watchers, hunters and other nature enthusiasts.

It is a gem that has garnered national and international attention.

According to information from the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, the popular attraction consists of nearly 20,000 acres of water surface meandering through a 41,000 acre natural land sink northeast of Great Bend.

The State of Kansas took

ownership of the land in the 1950s and the area has been continually developed ever since. It has gained in importance and stature through local economic efforts as well. It is managed by the KDWPT. The site has been named a Wetland of International Importance and is also the northern anchor of the 77-mile Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway that connects it and the Quivira National Wildlife Area in Stafford County.

This route is now both a way to highlight their ecological significance and an important economic development tool for the region.

The bottoms attracts about 100,000 visitors each year, according to KDWP. It is home to sandhill cranes, and many species of geese and ducks. The site attracts 45 to 90 percent of all North American shore birds.

Of the 650 bird species in the

United States, 417 are found in Kansas. Of those, 320 can be found at the Bottoms. It is also home to 23 species of mammals, 19 species of reptiles and nine species of amphibians.

Hunters will find 13,000 acres of public hunting areas at Cheyenne Bottoms and duck hunting is very popular.

Birdwatching is another attraction that draws a large number of visitors to the area.

The spring and fall migration periods offer a great opportunity to view a large number of the different species in one location.

Whooping Cranes usually make a stop-over late in October and early November and Bald Eagles winter in the area.

Established in 2002, this byway region has been named one of the Eight Wonders of Kansas. Kansas has 12 byways, nine scenic byways and three historic byways. Two of the scenic routes, the Wetlands and

Wildlife and the Flint Hills, have national scenic byway status.

In 2017, the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway overlook was dedicated.

Located on K-4, the overlook is about eight miles east of Hoisington.

From the scenic overlook, which sits atop 100-foot bluffs that circle the Cheyenne Bottoms basin on three sides, one can view the bottoms.

The 10-foot viewing tower is reached by a series of handicapped-accessible ramps. A sidewalk leads to the site from the information kiosk and parking lot to the tower.

More information on the Bottoms can be found at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area office, 56 NE 40 Rd., Great Bend or www.kdwp.state.ks.us. One can also call the Education Center at 620-566-1456 or cjwolf@ fhsu.edu.

19

Hunting Barton County

E

ven in turbulent times, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors through hunting and fishing in Barton County.

Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest inland marsh in the United States, is located in Barton County, and the wildlife area remains open to the public for hunting, bird-watching, and many other outdoor activities. It is primarily a prairie marsh but also includes wet meadows, grasslands, agricultural land, shelterbelts and riparian areas.

Barton County’s wildlife diversity, including abundant waterfowl and upland game, along with a mix of public hunting areas and easily accessible walk-in hunting, make it the ideal place for hunting and fishing. It’s home to nearly 400 species of migrating birds and other wildlife.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner (620-793-3066) oversees hunting at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area north of Great Bend. For information about hunting seasons for the wide variety of species that make Cheyenne Bottoms home, pick up a current year schedule at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center or online at www. ksoutdoors.com. For 24 hour current conditions, phone 620-793-7730.

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20

worlds The best of water

I

f water-related or any outdoor recreational activities are your thing, Barton County is the place. Within the county’s borders and shortly beyond them are several lakes that can meet the yearning to be outside.

A big part of Veteran’s Memorial Park in Great Bend is Veterans Lake. A city park located on the northwest corner of the community, it is a great place for the family to have some fun in the sun.

It includes baseball/softball fields, sand volleyball, tennis courts, disc golf course, fishing bridge, playground, dog park, walking and biking trails, picnic shelters, bathroom facilities.

On the south side of Great Bend

is Stone Lake, another city park.

This 43-acre fishing lake offers limited boating, fishing docks, and nearby access to a nature trail along the Arkansas River and a paved walking-biking path.

Another option is Rotary Lake, owned by the city in southwest Great Bend. Formerly MacArthur Lake, the name was changed in 2018 when the Great Bend Rotary Club took the lake on as a service project.

With donations and grants, they added picnic shelters and other improvements.

Outside of the county Barton County also sits between two of Kansas’ pre-

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mier reservoirs - Wilson Lake and Kanopolis Lake. Both offer fishing, boating, camping, biking, hiking and other outdoor recreational activities.

Wilson Lake Wilson Lake is located north of Wilson, 54 miles northeast of Great Bend, along the Post Rock Scenic Byway about 5 miles north of I-70, west of K-232 Wilson State Park is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the state. Wilson Reservoir features a rugged shoreline punctuated by scenic cliffs and rocky outcrops. The park and surrounding wildlife area offer the opportunity to view and photograph deer, pheasant, waterfowl, songbirds, and furbearers.

Wilson Reservoir offers excellent white bass and striped bass angling. The Cedar Trail in the Otoe area is a one-mile loop with a concrete surface and is great for a leisurely, lowstress walk. The 25.5-mile long Switchgrass Bike Trail is popular with mountain bikers to pursue this challenging activity.

Wilson Wildlife Area is located on the upper end of 9,000 acre Wilson Reservoir. The 8,069-acre public hunting area is made up of 5,000 acres of rugged rolling hills of native prairie, along the Saline River, Cedar Creek, Turkey Creek, and Elm Creek. The area has a waterfowl refuge that was established in 1996.

Contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism office at 785-658-2465 or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office at 785-658-2551.

Kanopolis Lake Kanopolis Lake is located on the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway northwest of Marquette along K-141, about five miles north of the K-4/K-141 junction (or) about seven miles south of the K-140/K-141 junction east of Ellsworth. It is about 44 miles northeast of Great Bend.

The first state park in Kansas, Kanopolis State Park is situated in the rolling hills, bluffs and woods of the scenic Smoky Hills region of the state. From the towering Dakota sandstone bluffs to the caves and crevices of Horsethief Canyon, the park and surrounding area offer rugged beauty and stunning vistas. The park is split into two areas north and south of the dam and there are two federal parks, as well.

Kanopolis offers more than 30 miles of trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, 15 of which are on the Smoky Hill Wildlife Area. The 3,500-acre lake and 12,500-acre wildlife area provide anglers and hunters abundant fish and game. Nestled near the Smoky Hill River toward the northwest portion of the wildlife area is Faris Caves, which were carved by early pioneers and served as milk house, school house, and living quarters.

Wildlife viewing and photography opportunities are plentiful. Kanopolis State Park also manages nearby Mushroom Rock State Park, a picnic area with unusual geologic formations .

Contact the KDWPT office at 785-546-2565 or the Corps office at 785-546-2294.

21

Fishing in Barton County

B

arton County offers many places to fish for anglers wanting to get out and put some lines in the water hoping for that big catch.

Some of the popular fish: catfish, small mouth bass, large mouth bass, white bass, walleye and other non-game species like gar and carp can be found in many rivers, lakes and ponds in Barton County.

Public fishing spots include: Stone Lake, Veterans Memorial Park, Rotary Lake, all in Great Bend, Wolf Pond in Ellinwood, the Arkansas River, Cheyenne Bottoms, and area creeks.

Purchase a fishing license at: Walmart 3503 10th, Great Bend Barton County Clerk 1400 Main, Great Bend Sutherlands Lumber 5520 10th, Great Bend P & S Security 255 West Barton Co. Rd., Great Bend Smokin Aces LLC 268 Hwy. 281, Great Bend

22

Play Ball!

G

reat Bend’s ball fields are available for rent by individuals, groups or private tournaments.

Chris Umphres, sports director of the Great Bend Recreation Commission, coordinates the master schedule for the ball complex and is the person to call for questions or

making reservations. Chris can be reached at the GBRC office, 620-793-3755, ext. 114.

The Great Bend Sports Complex at 41 McKinley St. is the perfect place to enjoy a ball game or to schedule a tournament.

The 61-acre complex offers four skinned infields with lights

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and a grass infield. However, bids were accepted in April of 2021 to install artificial turf on the infields and bullpens of the four sports complex fields (and at Langrehr Field). The cost of this $1.36 million project will be shared by the City of Great Bend, Great Bend Recreation Commission and Great Bend USD 428. The goal is to have the fields done in time for the 2022 ball seasons.

Features at the Sports Complex include state-of-theart scoreboards and “constant light level” Musco lighting, along with ample parking, seating and shade. At the hub of this complex are the concession area, restrooms, locker rooms, and air conditioned officials/meeting rooms. There are also batting cages on either side.

Organizers of baseball and softball tournaments for the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference, Kansas State High School Activities Association (1A/2A), National Baseball Congress and others have found the complex to their liking,

and many volunteers from the community are ready to make visitors feel welcome.

BAT CATS Barton County loves baseball, and there are several other fields available for local use. In 2017, Al Burns Field in Veterans Memorial Park became home field for the Great Bend Bat Cats, who finished ninth in the NBC World Series its first year.

Team organizer is Roger Ward, a former American Legion Baseball coach and longtime local baseball promoter.

The 2021 home schedule runs from June through July.

Admission to all home games is free.

The Bat Cats are part of the Sunflower Collegiate League, which features the Andale Warhawks, Cheney Diamond Dawgs, Derby Twins, El Dorado Broncos, Haysville Aviators, Hutchinson Monarchs, Newton Rebels, Wichita’s 316 Sluggers and Dodge City A’s and the Sunflower Seeds.

23

Lifelong game

W

hen Stoneridge Country Club golf instructor Travis McAtee retired, Steve Wolf rode to the rescue.

Wolf will replace McAtee during the next school year as the Great Bend golf coach.

But just as importantly, Wolf quickly filled the void as summertime golf instructor at Stoneridge Country Club.

It’s been a smooth adjustment although Wolf constantly works around summertime jobs and training for other high school sports.

“We work around other sports camps and practices along with jobs, so we’ve averaged about three boys and three girls each practice,” Wolf said.

Wolf has taken advantage of a smaller group to emphasize work with each invidual.

“It’s been good, in that I’ve been able to give a good amount of time to each player,” he said. “I expect we’ll have better attendance as the summertime camps wind down.”

Wolf emphasizes work with the basics, starting with putting and chipping, before working up to a full swing. He’s careful to incorporate all the basics a player needs to perform their best.

“My focus with summer instruction is to find things that individually they need to improve on,” he said. “When they are practicing or playing on their own, they have things they know to focus on. They know what their objectives are with stance, grip, posture, stroke and swing. When they are on their own they know what we’ve worked on.

Then, the next time we practice we will do a checkup with each golfer individually before we move on up the bag.”

Wolf said if the golfers use their time wisely, they’ll show quick improvement. Wolf said it’s the golfer’s reponsibility to work on proper technique because Wolf ’s time with an individual is limited.

In the past, 5A state qualifiers Cole Streck and Brantley Baldwin have assisted with golf instruction.

Phone swing apps allows players to see how their swing is improving. Launch monitoring systems measures swing speed and launch angle.

Doug Kaiser, Barton Community College golf coach, has coordinated a summer golf program through the Great Bend Recreation Commission.

Instructor Tandi Mai has led youngsters at Lake Barton Golf Course. Mai said she appreciates the support from Lake Barton that allows her to focus on instruction for players with experience and players learning the game once a week during the summer.

Stoneridge partners with the Great Bend Recreation Center, which exposes golf to a group of youngsters. Some of the club’s funding purchases equipment. Extra equipment is donated to Great Bend High School’s golf program.

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24

Making Barton County bike

friendly D

uring COVID-19, more Barton County residents looked outdoors to bicycling as a way to exercise while staying safe. That trend has continued as we emerged from the pandemic.

Fortunately, when it comes to cycling, Barton County had them covered. And there are efforts underway to make the county more bike-friendly.

There are ample blacktops, gravel roads, off-road trails, bike paths and city streets to meet the needs of all riders, from casual cyclist to the hard-core rider.

The efforts of Be Well Barton County, a county-wide coalition promoting bicycling and pedestrian travel, created a new map of bike routes throughout the county. It showcases various loops, including the mileage involved, and highlights assorted attractions along these paths.

“Barton County is blessed,” said Dale Hogg, Be Well member and educator for the Barton County Health Department. “We have so many options available to ride, regardless of your skill level or cycling interest.”

The map is available online at ckpartnership.org/bewell.

In addition, a newly formed offshoot of Be Well, Make Great Bend a Bike Town, is actively working with Great Bend officials to bolster bike infrastructure.

And, as of 2019, Great Bend has been on the Adventure Cycling Trans America Trail which cuts through the county. Now, there are signs and sharrows denoting this path.

What are the riding options?

If you are the skinny-tire type (or roadie) wanting smooth, paved roads, Barton County has nearly 400 miles of paved county roads, many of which wind through scenic vistas.

There are a few hills along the way as well.

These are two lane roads with minimum traffic, and biking can be started at any point.

In addition, major highways such as U.S. 56, U.S. 281 and K-156 all have wide, smooth shoulders suitable for riding.

If you are the fat-tire or mountain bike type looking for the rugged off-road experience, there is an extensive mountain bike trail following the Arkansas River south of Great Bend and an off-road loop circling the dried Lake Barton bed north of Great Bend. In addition, there are roads within the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge available.

Now, with the rise of “gravel grinding,” the riding on gravel roads, Barton County also has an extensive network of these.

With roads, trails, the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway and Cheyenne Bottoms all within pedaling distance, exploring nature on two wheels is an exciting adventure just waiting for you. There is also a wide variety of terrain available.

But, if you are not comfortable on roads, there is the Great Bend Hike and Bike Path, a seven-mile paved levee trail that runs along

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the Arkansas River and follows the flood control ditch. This path is mostly paved and is the perfect introduction to the habitat and ecology of the river as it exists in this part of Kansas.

Signs, sharrows and the on-going effort to improve streets make riding in the cities of Barton County safer and easier, too.

Bike friendly efforts The Barton County Commission approved the installation of the first bike awareness signs on several of the more commonly-used blacktop highways in 2016. Now, these signs mark roadways in every part of the county, creating a network that makes riding a bicycle to anywhere within the county lines safer.

There are also more signs on county roadways providing directions and distances to communities in the county.

Within the City of Great Bend, city officials are building on the start of a bike route which already includes signs and sharrows. Plans are in the works for additional trails and connecting routes.

There has long been a strong community of cyclists, both road and off-road, that hold weekly group rides for various skill levels.

Now, with the improvements that have either been done or are in the works, more bikes can be seen on streets and roads.

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620-793-9855 Barton County Source

27

JOIN US AT THE 11TH ANNUAL GREAT BEND FARM, RANCH AND HEMP EXPO APRIL 7-9, 2022

O

ne of the largest farm shows in the United States takes place in the spring at Great Bend’s Expo Complex.

Show Manager Darren Dale says the show spreads over 80 acres, with exhibitors from all over the United States, Canada and Australia.

“Great Bend is one-of-a-kind,” Dale said. “You have pride in the community and you have pride in this show – and it really shows. My wife Tana and I are committed to Great Bend for many years to come.”

It takes about 300 volunteers to pull off this three-day event. These folks make sure the exhibitors have what they need, assist with parking and perform other duties.

The Farm, Ranch and Hemp Expo is a great place to check out the latest farm and ranch equipment, but the

show is also a venue for entertainment and educational demonstrations. Each year is different.

Some highlights for the Expo include horse training demonstrations, the Great American Tractor Showdown, K-State Research & Extension presentations, low-stress cattle handling, health screenings and a wheat demo field day. The show also highlights industrial hemp components.

A variety of concessions and a beer garden will be available as well.

Great Bend welcomes everyone to the show. Motels fill up, so, if you’re planning an overnight trip during the next Great Bend Farm, Ranch and Hemp Expo, be sure to book ahead.

Learn more about the expo online at www.GreatBendFarmAndRanchExpo.net or email: dales@GreatBendFarmAndRanchExpo.net

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Barton County Source

Fair back to being live, in-person The theme for the 2021 Barton County Fair in July was “A New Beginning,” combining the return to a live event following the COVID-19-induced virtual one last year, and paying homage to the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail.

There was no carnival, but the Fair Board hosted three evenings of fun games to test participants’ skills.“We’ll have family nights and just have an old-time, old-fashioned carnival. A long time ago, back when our fair started in 1899, they didn’t have carnivals back then either. So, we’re moving forward.”

These games were widely popular and may return in 2022, even if there is a carnival.

There were the traditional fair activities: Concerts – Christian recording artist Riley Clemmons, local band Homebrew and country recording artist Ricochet; mutton busting; kids pedal tractor pull; antique tractor pull; animal exhibits; 4-H and open-class exhibits; arts and crafts; watermelon feed; and others.

People seemed to enjoy some of the events started because of COVID, and those will return, including the cruise Barton County poker run and sand volleyball tournament.

There was a family-friendly bicycle event, along with the return of the corn hole tournament.

It was suggested the Fair Board tie this into the Santa Fe Trail anniversary. That made sense with the fairgrounds west of Great Bend sitting a half mile off of that famous route.

“Our theme this year is ‘A new beginning’ because it’s a new beginning for all of us,” Fair Board President Charles Atkinson said.

“And, we were looking at the folks coming down the Santa Fe Trail and they were looking for a new beginning as well.”

Stay tuned to the fair website, bartoncountyfair.com.

Food • Rides • Entertainment • Animals • Exhibits • Displays

2021-2022 EVENT LISTINGS Holiday Home Tour December 5, 2021

BARTON COUNTY FAIR JULY 5 - 9, 2022 BARTON COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION PO Box 233 GREAT BEND, KS 67530 620-797-3247 WEB: www.bartoncountyfair.com EMAIL: Info@bartoncountyfair.com

More events to be planned, check our website for more information!

WINNER of 35 International Assoc. of Fairs & Expo Awards Barton County Source

29

SRCA Dragstrip

30

Visit the historic Great Bend Drag Strip Since 1954, organized drag racing in Great Bend has brought auto and speed enthusiasts together at the former B-29 air strip west of the city.

The founders called themselves the Gasket Blasters, but soon became a national organization, the Sunflower Rod and Custom Association, or SRCA. In 1955, the drag strip hosted the first-ever National Hot Rod Association National Championship and in 1956 Great Bend hosted the first-ever American Hot Rod Association Championship.

A lot has changed at the drag strip over 65 years, with more forthcoming.

According to SRCA track president Hank Denning, the track purchased a track rotator from Bandimere Speedway in Denver, CO. It consists of a 110-horsepower John Deere Tractor equipped with an eight foot rotary broom on the front and a rotating attachment on the rear that has four dragster slick tires mounted to it that turn backwards as it goes down the track to apply a rubber to the racing surface. According to Denning, there is only one other track in Kansas that has one, the National Event Track Heartland Motorsports Park in Topeka.

“This machine saves us countless hours in preparing the track for a race and also gives us a very outstanding surface,” Denning said.

The track also recently purchased a new compound sprayer. According to Denning,

previously the track had a homemade compound sprayer. The new sprayer is the same as used by the NHRA at National Events Tracks and it is all stainless steel with an on board compressor to spray the compound.

The new sprayer can be sprayed quickly to minimize down time during events.

In May, track operatorsb completed the replacement of the entire drag strip surface.

The work was funded through a cost-share agreement between the Kansas Department of Transportation and the City of Great Bend. Denning said the SRCA also contributed funds to help with track updates.

According to Denning, the new surface is all concrete with new concrete retaining walls replacing the previous barriers, and running the entire length of the racing surface and shut down.

The track’s timing system also got a recent upgrade. According to Denning, the system is the same as what is used in National Event Tracks. All cables are inside metal conduit and fastened to the exterior of the wall with junction boxes. Compulink also installed a 1000 foot mile per hour timer to the track, added Guard Beam at the starting line and Tru-Start into the computer system.

Denning sees the track as a vital part of both Great Bend’s past and its future, and is proud of the positive exposure the track brings to the City of Great Bend.

“Thousands of racers and spectators

travel to Great Bend each year to compete, test here or just watch the events,” Denning said. “These same people are in the city shopping at local stores, fuel stations, parts stores, restaurants, public facilities, such as the Waterpark and Zoo and staying at the motels.”

Denning also indicated much of funds used each year to keep the track operational are invested directly back into the city. As a 501(c) not-for-profit organization, the SRCA Club does not accept public funding. The staff is volunteer, Denning said, which allows any money the club takes in to be invested directly back into the facility.

“All of the buildings that have been erected at the complex were all done by the (SRCA) Club and then we gifted them to the City,” Denning said. “Even if SRCA should no longer exist, the city would have a fully operational drag strip they can lease out in the future.” “(We want the drag strip) to be at a caliber you only see at large city drag strip venues such as Topeka or Denver, and to keep a historic part of the American-founded sport of dragg racingg alive,” Denningg said.

SRCA Drag Strip 455 W. Barton County Road Great Bend, KS 620-792-5079 (Track Phone) www.srcadragstrip.com

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31

There’s plenty to do in

Barton County W

hether you are looking for a good spot to picnic hike, swim or play catch, Barton County has some great offerings. Fishing, hunting, sports, and fitness opportunities are all offered along with tours that will take you behind the scenes. Don’t miss the professionally designed disc golf course in Veterans Memorial Park.

RECREATION CENTERS

CITY PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

Hoisington Recreation Commission 1200 Susank Road, Hoisington 620-653-4050 hoisingtonrec.com

Claflin Recreation Commission 406 Main St., Claflin 620-588-4321 claflinrec.weebly.com Great Bend Recreation Commission 1214 Stone St., Great Bend 2715 18th St., Great Bend 620-793-3755 greatbendrec.com

Claflin City Park 400 W. Front, Claflin Corner of Main & Albro, Claflin Ellinwood City Park 7th and Park, Ellinwood Great Bend Brit Spaugh Park and Zoo 2123 Main St., Great Bend Includes Tot Spot playground for smaller children and larger playground for older children.

Skateboard arena, located immediately northeast of the zoo, is open during regular park hours (6:00 a.m. to midnight).

Users must bring their own skateboards and safety equipment. Visitors to the park can enjoy several ramps and other trick props. Users of the park are urged to use the facility with extreme caution. The City of Great Bend accepts no liability for injuries that result through usage of the park.

Harms Park 2305 Heizer, Great Bend

Heizer Park Eighth and Heizer, Great Bend

Santa Fe Trail Park 10th and Frey, Great Bend

Lafayette Park Barton County Courthouse Square, Great Bend You may know this park better by the name Jack Kilby Square, thanks to the legacy of Nobel Prize winner Jack Kilby, who is featured in a bronze statue on the west side. The south side of the park is used for the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market and other activities. After Thanksgiving until New Year’s, the synthetic ice skating rink is open, with free skate rental Thursday and Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Saturday from noon to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Both the Jack Kilby Square Ice Skating Rink and the Skate Board Park in Brit Spaugh Park were projects that arose from the Great Bend Youth Academy.

Veterans Memorial Park 4800 17th St. Terrace Great Bend Includes toddler playground for smaller children and larger playground for older children.

Dog Park - Northwest side of Lake at 17th and McKinley, open daily My Backyard Playground At the Great Bend Rec Activity Center 2715 18th, Great Bend Bicentennial Park West 7th & Monroe, Hoisington Heritage Park Clay & 3rd, Hoisington East Park 3rd & Pine, Hoisington

Ellinwood Recreation Commission 13 N. Main St., Ellinwood 620-566-7323 www.ellinwoodrec.com SWIMMING Barton Community College 245 NE 30 Road, Great Bend 620-786-1144 www.bartonccc.edu/ publicresources/pool Claflin Municipal Swimming Pool 400 W. Front St. 620-588-3655 Ellinwood Municipal Swimming Pool 209 W. 1st St., 620-564-3441 Free splash pad is located next to the pool.

Summer hours are 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Parks, Recreation and Touring

32

Stone Lake Washington St. & Railroad Ave. Great Bend Scott Keeler, Parks Director 620-793-4160 Must abide by motor and fishing regulations.

Also available: picnic area and a nature trail.

Public access

Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark 2303 Main, 620-792-1516 www.greatbendwaterpark.com Swimming lessons available through the Great Bend Recreation Commission.

620-793-3755 Splash Pad The free pad is located on the south side of the Barton County Courthouse.

Summer hours are 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Hoisington Municipal Swimming Pool 721 N. Center St. 620-653-2535 YOUTH SPORTS See “Recreation Centers” for more youth sports and lessons.

Summer Baseball and Softball American Legion Class AAA – Great Bend Chiefs Class A – Great Bend Braves Class AA – Hoisington ASA Girls Fast Pitch Softball Great Bend Quicksilver Lyles Lashley, 620-792-9750 lyleslashley@hotmail.com Sunflower League Hap Dumont Bombers Baseball Great Bend Recreation Commission 620-793-3755 Hoisington Little League Hoisington Recreation Commission 620-653-4050

FOOTBALL

YOUTH WRESTLING

Pride of Kansas Football League Great Bend Rex Kern 620-791-8464 pkfl.org rexkern@hotmail.com

Great Bend Wrestling Club Jesse Richter, 620-282-2910 gbwrestlingclub@gmail.com gbkwc@hotmail.com

Hoisington Gene Mooney 785-445-5151 genemooney17@yahoo.com Ellinwood Chad Heinz 620-562-7017 chad.heinz@greaneyconsulting. com BASKETBALL Barton Summer Basketball League BCC Athletic Office 620-792-9377

Hoisington Rex Kern, 620-791-8464 rexkern@hotmail.com SWIM TEAM

Wolf Pond West U.S. 56, Ellinwood 620-564-3161 Fishing regulations must be followed.

Public access

Golden Belt Swim Squad Shannon Somers, 620-792-6466 scsomers@hotmail.com

HUNTER SAFETY COURSES

VOLLEYBALL

Great Bend Recreation Commission 620-793-3755

Winter Heart of America/USA Volleyball www.hoavb.org 17 and under Velocity Volleyball Club Greg and Becca Maxwell 620-617-1594 FISHING AND BOATING

Mid-America Youth Basketball (MAYB) 316-284-0354 mayb@mayb.com www.mayb.com

Veterans Memorial Park and Lake 4800 17th St. Terrace Great Bend Scott Keeler, Parks Director 620-793-4160 No motors allowed, must abide by fishing regulations.

Public access

Rotary Lake 7th & McArthur, Great Bend Scott Keeler, Parks Director 620-793-4160 Public access

Barton County Sheriff’s Office 620-793-1876 The BCSO also offers concealed carry classes Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism https://programs.ksoutdoors. com/Programs/Hunter Education-Certification online course

Parks, Recreation and Touring

33

OTHER ACTIVITIES Great Bend Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area 620-793-7730 Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Hunting, bird watching, trails & other activities Drop-in Horseshoes Horseshoe pits located at Brit Spaugh Park across from Park School. Call the Great Bend Recreation Commission 620-793-3755 for league times and dates SRCA Dragstrip 455 W. Barton County Road Sunflower Rod and Custom Association Inc. 620-792-5079 www.srcadragstrip.com Central Kansas Off-Road Association Todd Honomichl, 620-786-1581 One mile south of K-156 on Radium Road. Call for membership information River Hike and Bike Trail Go South on Washington to Stone Lake Across the dike is a double track to the west between the dike and river.

After 1/4 mile there is a single track going left into the trees.

Trail is approximately 7 miles in length Mountain Bike Trail Go North on U.S. 281 out of town, at NW 60 Road turn left at old 4-H Building.

Signs direct to the two mile loop. This is a single track, dirt, mountain bike trail

Disc Golf Courses Veterans Memorial Park 2100 McKinley, Great Bend Barton Community College 245 NE 30 Road, Great Bend Walking Trails Claflin Tradition Trail & City Loop Both are popular trails used by residents - directions can be found on bartoncounty.org Great Bend Great Bend Fit Trail Veterans Memorial Park 2100 McKinley, Great Bend Kansas Wetlands Education Center 592 NE K-156, Great Bend Hoisington Clara Barton Hospital Walking Path 250 W. 9th St., Hoisington

patterns in the sidewalks around the courthouse were chosen because they reflect the early history of Great Bend, founded in 1872. On the back of the band shell is a painting of a Kansas Sunflower Barn Quilt. Great Bend’s Quilt Walk is a tribute to those women and their creations who kept their ancestors warm through beautiful fabric, needlework and patterns.

Bicentennial Park Walking Path Along U.S. 281 and K-4 in Hoisington Kansas Quilt Walk In the sidewalks surrounding the Barton County Courthouse you will find the Kansas Quilt Walk featuring the Kansas Dugout, Kansas, Farmer’s Daughter, Kansas Troubles, Rocky Road to Kansas, Windmill and Kansas Star. The seven

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Points of Interest

34 ARGONNE FOREST

FORT ZARAH

GREAT BEND COMMUNITY THEATRE

2100 McKinley, Great Bend 620-793-4160 • North side of Veterans Memorial Park • Dedicted to the young men from Barton County and the surrounding area who fought in World War I with emphasis on the Battle of Argonne in Germany on Sept. 26, 1918.

• Displays, artwork, photos and signage.

East of Great Bend on Hwy. 56 • Roadside park located near one of the two original locations of the fort.

• Fort was established in 1864 to help protect mail service along the Santa Fe Trail.

1905 Lakin Ave., Great Bend 620-792-4228 • Renovated former movie theater.

• Live performances.

• Available for rent.

ELLINWOOD UNDERGROUND TOUR

SHAFER ART GALLERY

1 N. Main St. Ellinwood, KS 67526 Northwest corner of Main & Santa Fe, U.S. 56 at the stoplight.

To make tour reservations call 620-617-6915 or 620-564-2400 or historicwolfhotel.com Admission $12/adult - $6/kid 12 & under • Built in 1887 and listed on the Kansas State Historical Register.

• Tunnels originally connected the business district.

• Original flooring, wallpaper, and barber’s mirror.

• Tunnels under the Dick Building and the Historic Wolf Hotel.

• Tours are conducted only by advance reservation.

• Prohibition era Speakeasy open on Friday and Saturday nights.

• Period style lunch the 3rd Sunday of every month.

• Hotel open year around by reservation

Barton Community College 245 NE 30th Road, Great Bend 620-792-9342 shafergallery.org • Attached to the Fine Arts Building on BCC campus.

• Featuring trending regional and national artists.

• Workshops and family activities.

• Free admission, open year round Winter Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Summer Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

• Tour groups welcome.

• Gallery is closed for most college observed holidays.

GREAT BEND - BRIT SPAUGH ZOO AND RAPTOR CENTER 2123 Main St., Great Bend 620-793-4226 Open 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily.

• Visitors pay no admission fee.

The zoo features grizzly bears, multiple species of cats and a variety of smaller, exotic critters. Be sure to check out the newly renovated Grizzly Bear exhibit and check out the Bison in their brand new exhibit!

• This free zoo is good for about a 45-90 minute visit.

FARMER’S MEMORIAL K-96 Park at the corner of K-96 and 10th St., Great Bend • 20-foot stainless steel sculpture created

by Bruce and Brent Bitter, B & B Metal Arts of Hoisington. A tribute to early pioneer families who settled Great Bend and the surrounding communities.

BARTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM & VILLAGE 85 U.S. 281, Great Bend 620-793-5125 • Located on five acres, just south of Great Bend on US 281, across the Arkansas River Bridge, the Village boasts several authentically furnished period buildings including a one-room school house, a church, a pioneer cabin and a Lustron home. Collections tell the story of this area from the Paleo Period through the Indian Wars to World War II and beyond.

• Admission $4 for non-members 16 & older.

SUMMER HOURS (APRIL-OCTOBER) Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

WINTER HOURS (NOVEMBER-MARCH) Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

B-29 BOMBER MEMORIAL PLAZA Great Bend Army Air Field Great Bend Municipal Airport entrance • Great Bend’s B-29 Memorial Plaza is open to visitors every day, to honor the men and women of the Great Bend Army Air Field.

• No admission charge.

• Self-guided.

CHEYENNE BOTTOMS 204 NE 60 Rd, Great Bend 620-793-3066 • The largest marsh in the interior of the United States, designated a “Wetland of International Importance”.

• The Bottoms is one of the most important ecosystems in Kansas and one of the most important migration points for shorebirds in North America.

• Hunting, primarily duck and goose, is a big draw for locals and those from other states.

GOLDEN BELT VETERANS’ MEMORIAL 59 NW 50 Rd., Great Bend • Honoring Barton County Veterans from all six branches of the military from the Civil War until today.

• Project paid for through donations, call 620-793-1800 for information.

Details also found at www.bartoncounty.org and on the County’s social media pages.

• Three stones are in place with the names of 1,139 veterans.

• Names are being accepted for Stone IV. CLAFLIN MUSEUM 210 Main Street, Claflin 620-786-9307 or 620-793-0546 • Open all holidays and by appointment.

• Housed on the second floor of the old Claflin Grade School with over 1800 items and old photographs.

• Pertains mainly to the history of northern Barton County, including the towns of Claflin, Odin, Beaver, Hitschman, Dubuque and St. Peter & Paul Church.

• Free Admission.

• Self-guided tour, spend as much time as you like.

HOISINGTON HISTORY MUSEUM 120 E. 2nd, Hoisington 620-282-0913 or 785-483-9402 • Call for appointment.

• Facebook - Hoisington History Museum • Open Sunday of Labor Day weekend 2021 for a special presentation from Patricia Watts, author of “South of the Tracks”.

JACK KILBY SQUARE Downtown Great Bend • The grounds that surround the Barton County Courthouse.

• Massive bronze sculpture created by local artist Chet Cale entitled “The Gift”.

• Splash pad.

• Home to the Clayton M. Morrison Memorial Bandshell and Thelma Faye Harms Stage.

• Holiday lights.

HEARTLAND FARM www.heartlandfarm-ks.org 1049 CR 390, Pawnee Rock 620-923-4585 hfarm@gbta.net Facebook: HeartlandFarmKS • Non-profit ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace.

• Registered agritourism operator.

• Tours and visitors welcome by appointment.

• Workshops and demonstrations yearround.

• Open-air pavilion, gift shop, arts and fiber studio, walking trails, and labyrinth.

• Organically-managed gardens. Find us at the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market!

• Great spaces for bird watching.

• Guest housing available for individuals and for groups of up to 9.

• Official hosting site for Harvest Host.

• Day, short-term, and long-term volunteer opportunities.

• Home to a herd of lovable alpacas.

Points of Interest GREAT BEND PUBLIC LIBRARY 1409 Williams, Great Bend 620-792-2409 • Permanent art display featuring works by Birger Sandzen, Charles B. Rogers, Bill Shaddix and others along with local artists.

• Free internet / scanning / computer access / printing (10 pgs) / study rooms.

• Children, Teen & Adult activities year round.

• Summer Library Program.

• Digital lending services.

WINTER HOURS Monday - Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

SUMMER HOURS Monday - Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

KANSAS OIL & GAS HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM 5944 10th St., Great Bend • Displaying the history of the oil & gas industry, geography of Kansas, and much more.

• The Midwest Energy Education Center offers an interactive space for youth programming.

• The Biggs Conference Room is available for private party rentals.

• The Hall of Fame Room highlights with photos and information the pioneers of the Kansas oil and gas industry.

• The museum is currently closed but they look forward to opening back up in 2021.

Contact John Francis, president, at 620-786-9920 for more information.

SANTA FE TRAIL In 2021, The Santa Fe Trail commemorates the 200th Anniversary of the trail. Barton County is proud of the trail history and heritage. There are four sites tributed to the trail and these include: Walnut Creek Ranch, Fort Zarah, Barton Co. Historical Museum And Pawnee Rock. From Plum Buttes to the Walnut Creek Crossing to Pawnee Rock, the area that is now Barton County played a major role in the history of the Santa Fe Trail.

• Big Bend of the Arkansas River — This was the next overnight campground after leaving Cow Creek and the only reliable source of water in the area. Located on the west edge of Ellinwood.

• Walnut Creek Crossing — Located east of Great Bend. Also known as Allison Booth Ranch and Peacock Ranch. From 1855 through 1872, a number of enterprises were located there, including a trading post (ranch), stage station, post office, toll bridge, Camp Dunlap and Fort Zarah.

MUSEUM OF ELLINWOOD 104 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2886 ellinwoodhistoricalsociety.com • Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Open mid-April until October. Or by appointment.

• Check Museum of Ellinwood facebook for information or the Ellinwood Community Historical Society web page.

KANSAS WETLANDS EDUCATION CENTER 592 NE K-156, Great Bend 620-566-1456 or 877-243-9268 www.wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu • Branch of Fort Hays State University’s Werth College of Science Technology and Mathematics.

• Located on the SE corner of KDWPT’s Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area on Hwy. 156 along Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway.

• Interpretive exhibits on Cheyenne Bottoms, including the importance of wetlands and the plants and animals inhabiting them.

• Scheduled educational programs, Nature Trail, Classroom, Auditorium, Gift Shop.

• Van tours.

• Free admission.

OPEN APRIL 1 - OCTOBER 31 Monday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

OPEN NOVEMBER 1 - MARCH 31 Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Closed Monday DOROTHY MOSES MORRISON CHAPEL Barton Community College 245 NE 30th Road, Great Bend 620-792-9342 • Part of the Fine Arts Building on the BCC Campus, the chapel boasts five stained glass windows from the razed First Congregational Church in Great Bend.

The chapel can be rented for events such as small weddings or performances. It has become a popular space for chamber groups and music recitals.

FARMERS MARKET • Broadway parking lot of Great Bend Public Library, Great Bend. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings in the spring, summer and fall.

SUMMER STREET STROLL FARMERS MARKET • Jack Kilby Square, downtown, Great Bend. Thursday nights 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. May - October.

SRCA DRAGSTRIP Expo Complex, Great Bend 620-792-5079 www.srcadragstrip.com • Home of the first NHRA Nationals in 1955.

• Home of the first AHRA Nationals in 1956.

• Total length of track is 3/4 mile.

• Track reconstructed beginning in 2020 and completed to all concrete in 2021.

• NHRA sanctioned 1/4 mile dragstrip which holds a NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Event.

• NHRA Summit Drag Racing Series held through the year.

• Check facebook and the schedule page for more information and special events.

35 PAWNEE ROCK MONUMENT 12 miles west of Great Bend on U.S. 56 Hwy., Pawnee Rock • Natural landmark along the Santa Fe Trail.

In the trail days it was 30 feet higher than it is today. A pavilion atop the rock, erected through the efforts of several women’s service clubs a century ago, indicates the original height before the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad took the top portion of the rock to use as fill in railroad construction.

• Enjoy a panoramic view across the prairie.

• Carving in rocks mark where travelers on the Santa Fe trail paused in their journeys, some as far back as the early 1800s.

SANTAS AROUND THE WORLD AND SANTA HOUSE 1223 Main St., Great Bend 620-792-2536 • Twenty-four one-of-a-kind life-sized, international Santas personally made by Great Bend artist Loretta Miller.

OPEN NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 22 Hours may vary, but appointments can be made also!

Thursdays & Fridays, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Admission is a freewill donation.

Presented by the Rosewood Roots and Wings Foundation.

CLAYTON M. MORRISON MEMORIAL BANDSHELL AND THELMA FAYE HARMS STAGE South side of Jack Kilby Square between Main St. and Kansas St. • Home of the Great Bend City Band summer concert series, various events and live music during June Jaunt.

For rental information contact Community Coordinator at chayes@greatbendks.net.

TRAIL OF LIGHTS GREAT BEND •Our light displays twinkle in various places around town, Brit Spaugh Park & Zoo, Jack Kilby Square, Veteran’s memorial Park, K96 Hwy & 10th and MORE! Many light displays have been crafted by the City Park Department Employees.

For more information contact Great Bend Convention and Visitor’s Bureau 620-792-2750 or City of Great Bend 620-793-4111. www.exploregreatbend.com

To keep with up the schedules and events happening at these places check out the Great Bend Tribune - in print and online at www.gbtribune.com

Barton County Source

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Travel GENERAL PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Catch-A-Ride 620-792-7797 Catch-A-Ride is a service offered by Sunflower Diversified Service. Mini-buses are available in the city limits of Great Bend and a 10 mile surrounding radius. The buses are available from 5:30 a.m. 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The mini-bus requires advanced notice. Passengers must call at least the day before to schedule their rides. An after-hours answering machine is available to leave a message. The dispatcher collects all messages the next day, or if over the weekend messages are collected on Monday mornings.

Fare is $2 per person per stop.

Mini-Bus & Van 620-792-3859 Transportation is available in the Great Bend city limits and in a limited radius outside town, including west to the airport, south of Redbarn, east to the Doonan dealership, and north to Barton Community College (with special student rate).

Van hours are 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Mini-Bus with wheelchair lift operates from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Let the dispatcher know if you need a

wheelchair lift.

An answering machine is available after hours.

Fares in town with 24-hour advance notice are $1.50 for one way or $3.00 for a round trip, and $1.00 for each extra stop. The fare for same-day service is $4.00 per person one way and $1.00 for each extra stop.

Fares outside of Great Bend are $8 per person one way.

Hoisington Trolley 620-653-2555 Fare is 25 cents per person one way in Hoisington.

Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday but the driver takes a lunch break from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

GREAT BEND MUNICIPAL AIRPORT Great Bend Municipal Airport is a full-service regional facility serving all aspects of civil aviation and military activity. Services include self-service and fullservice aviation fuels, aircraft repair and maintenance, flight training, aircraft towing and

hangars. The airport (KGBD) is located at 9047 Sixth St., 3 miles west of Great Bend.

The airport is also utilized by private recreational and business aviation aircraft.

Military aircraft occasionally use the airport as a refueling stop and for training. It is a popular mid-America fuel stop for personal and business aircraft. Medical professionals and their staffs arrive at the airport weekly to provide services in Great Bend.

The City of Great Bend has an eight-member airport advisory committee that has the authority to make recommendations and advise the City Council on matters related to the airport. To contact a member of the Airport Advisory Committee, call 620-793-4168.

Airport Manager Martin Miller 620-793-4168, 620-792-9446 greatbendairport@ruraltel.net www.greatbendks.net/index. aspx?nid=190 B-29 MEMORIAL The Great Bend Municipal Airport was constructed

in 1943 as a World War II Army Air Force Base to accommodate the B-29 Superfortress bomber.

Located at the entrance to the Great Bend Municipal Airport, the B-29 Memorial Plaza is dedicated to everyone involved in building, flying and providing support for the Boeing B-29 Superfortress.

The memorial honors bomber crews, groups, and individuals on bronze plaques and bricks.

Visitors are welcome 365 days a year. There is no admission charge.

GREAT BEND AIRFEST The triennial Great Bend Airfest is scheduled for Sept.

17-19, 2021, at the Great Bend Municipal Airport.

“This event is always fun to put on every three years and were really excited about this year’s Airfest,” said event organizer and airport Manager Martin Miller. “Aviation is such a big part of Great Bend’s history and to be able to host this event at the former Air Force Base makes this such a meaningful occasion.”

Great Bend Army Air Field was closed as an air base in 1946. Located 5.6 miles westsouthwest of Great Bend, it is used today as Great Bend Municipal Airport.

The 58th Bomb Wing was the first B-29 combat wing of World War II and engaged in the first long-range strategic bombardment of the Japanese Home Islands beginning in March 1944 from bases in India.

Find a

fur-ever friend

T

he Golden Belt Humane Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to animal welfare that provides temporary housing and medical care to unwanted and stray animals.

Come visit the shelter and check out the adoptable cats, dogs and other animals. Or, fill out an application and schedule a time for a meet-greet/adoption. If the pet is the right fit for your household, you could leave with your new furry friend.

Animal Rescue Organizations Hands of Hope Rescue Founder and President RaShann Southard handsofhoperescue.com Hands of Hope is a non-profit 501c3 canine rescue, licensed in Kansas and Missouri, dedicated to helping save the lives of dogs in desperate situations such as being in high kill shelters and owner surrenders from Kansas, Missouri and surrounding states.

They are always in need of foster homes in Kansas and Missouri.

Visit the Hands of Hope Rescue page on Facebook for more information about volunteering, adopting a dog or surrendering a dog.

37

The GBHS mission includes the placement of animals by adoption or by networking with rescues.

Euthanasia is ONLY used for animals that are unadoptable for reasons of aggressions, sickness and injury.

Once a month, some of the animals spend a few hours outside of the shelter at the Adopt-APet Program. This is typically accompanied by a fundraiser, such as a burger or walking taco lunch.

In 2021, the third annual Walnut Car Show was held as a benefit for Golden Belt Humane Society/ Adopt-A-Pet. Money generated helps the shelter to lower adoption fees, pay for medical treatment and spays/neuters, and purchase supplies and equipment.

Check out the Golden Belt Humane Society on Facebook or call for more information.

The Golden Belt Humane SSociety also over sees other ttemporary placement through tthe foster program. Foster homes provide the animals stability, p ttraining, and extra TLC before tthey go to their forever homes. To bbecome a foster, visit the shelter for aan application.

It is only an impoundment ffacility for felines and canines.

SServices through the Golden Belt Humane Society do not include the H housing of exotic pets and wildlife. h GBHS does, however, provide G llive traps for nuisance animals.

A deposit is required to use these ttraps.

Another service offered is pet microchipping for $25. Microchips m

Chasing Tails Rescue Founder Chris Klima chasingtailsdogrescue.com 620-797-0430 Chasing Tails Rescue is a small dog rescue dedicated to finding and helping homeless animals in need of care and forever homes. This fosterbased, nonprofit 501c3 organization is licensed in the state of Kansas.

They take in dogs of all ages needing rescue. Dogs are fully vetted, meaning they receive all vaccines, spay/ neuter, any medical services needed.

Then the volunteers work towards finding them the best homes possible. Since opening in 2017, Chasing Tails Rescue has treated many parvo puppies, dogs hit by cars, and many that were is desperate need of medical attention for various issues.

Contact them through the Chasing Tails Rescue page on Facebook.

provide a chance for a lost pet to be returned home quicker. With a simple and easy registration using your email address, you have access to update your contactt information, pet information n and photos.

The Golden Belt Humane Society Animal Control officers handle cruelty cases of felines, canines and equines. You may call the shelter directly to make a report, or call Barton County Communications, 620-793-1920.

Donations of cash or pet items are greatly appreciated.

Humane Society Business Hours 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday Adoption/Meet & Greets 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday noon to 3:00 p.m. Saturday

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future Larned remembers the past, builds for the future

T

he City of Larned is a town intimately connected with the past, but always seeks to keep its eyes focused toward strengthening its future.

When discussing the ongoing waterline distribution project, the city’s mayor, William Nusser said in every project the city undertakes, they do so with the longterm impacts always in mind.

“Every decision we make has a longterm impact,” Nusser said. “It’s exciting to

think that we’re doing something for not just this generation, but the next.”

He said the city’s goal when making decisions regarding what projects to tackle, and how to tackle, is not simply how those decisions will impact its current residents, but those that will call Larned home in future generations, as well.

Larned City Manager Bradley Eilts said meeting this goal means crucial investments in both critical city infrastructure projects and what Eilts terms

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“quality of life” projects.

And it starts with the entire community investing in critical infrastructure items.

Nusser said in 2015 when the members of the community invested in a new community hospital, then voted for a school bond to build a new elementary school, and make critical updates to Larned High School.

“Those two significant investments paved the way to the future,” Nusser said.

Along with those projects, the city has also made long-term investments in the city’s wastewater treatment facility, and more recently, upgrading the city’s water distribution lines, portions of which are over a century old. Work began on that project in the summer of 2021, and will continue for the forseeable future.

In addition, Eilts noted, the last four years has seen significant investments in the city’s roadways, electric system, wastewater utility, airport, and stormwater drainage, as well as critical new equipment for several city departments.

Larned

39

But, Nusser said, keeping Larned strong for future generations includes investments in the city’s quality of life, as well.

In the last two years, this includes investments in upgrading the city’s swimming pool, historic Moffett Stadium, the Schnack-Lowery Park water fountain, and more.

While not all considered essential, he said, these projects are critical to maintaining and improving quality of life in Larned.

The community has also come together to raise funds for the reinstallation of lights on Larned’s water tower through the “Light Up Larned” campaign, a project which was seen as both a nod to the city’s past, and an investment in its future.

The goal was to have the lights installed by the end of 2021.

“We’re excited to see some of these projects, with the fountain, the pool and now the water tower, to really get Larned back on its feet and get rolling towards the future,” Nusser said.

None of this would be possible, Eilts said without a strong team and community effort to make these projects happen, and he praised the efforts of city crews.

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“Our team has incredible skill sets, which combined with hard work, are able to leverage limited funding with collaboration among themselves and others to make these projects a reality,” Eilts said. “They are truly a team and I am very proud of that.”

The city also takes pride in its deep connections with the region’s past as a major hub along the Santa Fe Trail, which celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2021 with festivities in many locales, including Larned.

Two of the city’s major attractions, the Fort Larned National Historical Site, and the Santa Fe Trail Center, have invested large amounts to make sure this history is remembered by future generations.

In the summer of 2021, FLNHS formally dedicated a newlyrenovated interactive exhibit center to ensure this history remembered and appreciated by those yet to come.

While proud of the work the community has come together to put in, Nusser said there is still a great deal of work still ahead.

“This journey is far from over but we’ll continue to keep our head down and work for the citizens of this community,” he said.

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CITY COUNCIL Mayor - William Nusser Ward 1 Carroll Bennet Gary Rainbolt Ward 2 Terry Clark George Elmore Ward 3 Dennis Wilson Jason Murray Ward 4 Sharon McGinness Kim Barnes Council members meet at 6:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 417 Broadway. Council members can be reached at the city office, 620-285-8500. Council members serve two-year terms.

CITY DEPARTMENTS City Manager Bradley Eilts, 620-285-8500 City Clerk Kara Rath, 620-285-8500 Finance Director Monica Steiner, 620-285-8500 Emergency Medical Service Kara Lawson, EMS director 123 W. 9th Larned Swimming Pool 620-285-8570 Parks/Cemetery 620-285-8535 620-285-8500 (records) Building Inspection 620-285-8509 Street Department 620-285-8560 Sanitation Department 620-285-8555 Wastewater Treatment 620-285-8513 Pawnee Sanitation 620-285-7780

UTILITIES & SERVICES Electric, Water, Trash, Sewer City of Larned 620-285-8500 Natural Gas Kansas Gas Service 800-794-4780

Medical Care Pawnee Valley Community Hospital 923 Carroll Ave. 620-285-3161

Zip Code 67550 Population (2019 est.)

3,671

Larned Community Center Mike Seeman Larned Recreation Director 1500 North Toles 620-285-6002 U.S. Post Office 803 Broadway 620-285-2791 Recycling 620-285-8555 620-792-1321 Jordaan Memorial Library 724 Broadway 620-285-2876 Municipal Court 417 Broadway 620-285-8500

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In good hands for the

future W

hen Pawnee County natives Tyson and Chelsea Steffen took over Larned staple Clock Realty in 2019, their goal was to continue to provide the same trusted service the community had already trusted for over 30 years.

They purchased the business from previous owner Del Fischer, who still is on staff with the business. Tyson hoped to bring his experience in the real estate business as an appraiser for Farm Credit to help grow the long-time Larned business even more.

Both Tyson and Chelsea say they enjoy the work they do with, and for, the community.

“It’s fun to help people that are looking to buy a house or insurance,” Tyson said. “I enjoy helping people in a situation that’s (often) very stressful - buying a house is a big expenditure.”

The business is more than just agricultural, commercial and residential real estate. They also offer several different types of

insurance, as well. As an independent insurance agent, Clock works with several different companies to offer “the gamut of insurance, everything but health and life.”

With small-town roots, Tyson said they aim to bring those core values into their work.

“We want people to know we’re going to treat them right,” he said. “We want to treat our customers like we would want to be treated...to given them the best service they could possibly receive.”

Their office at 615 Broadway St. in Larned is open 8:00 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. However, staff can be reached by phone outside of normal business hours 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their office phone number is 620-285-6541, and all calls outside of normal business hours will be forwarded to a staff member.

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Barton County Source

Great Bend Appliance, Furniture & SleepSource celebrates 23 years of business “We have a phenomenal staff who understands customer courtesy. They know their product and how to treat a customer the way that they want to be treated,” Great Bend Appliance, Furniture & SleepSource owner Dale E. Pruter said.

This philosophy has served the business well as they just celebrated 23 years of business in Great Bend and the surrounding communities.

“We started out with just my wife and me, and have expanded to 21 employees as the business has grown,” Pruter said. They recently hired a second Service Technician, Eric Johnson, to keep up with the demand for service and installations. Both Steven Nagel and Johnson are certified technicians trained at Fred’s Service Academy in Madison, Ohio.

The store’s franchise agreement with Brand Source is the backbone of its variety and competitive edge. Brand Source collaborates with 4,000 individual business owners across the United States to buy brand-market appliances and furniture.

“BrandSource gives the independent owners the visibility of the bigger box stores because we carry the same brands,” Pruter said. “It levels the playing field with the bigger companies. Some people come in and need it all and we can make truly competitive package deals.”

Appliance service has also been a big part of their success.

Service Tech Steven Nagel was trained to service all Whirlpool, Maytag and Kitchenaid appliances, graduating as valedictorian from Fred’s Appliance Repair Academy in Madison, Ohio.

“We are happy and proud to have such a quality young service tech who knows how to treat customers and holds

Dale Pruter

customer service as their number one priority,” Pruter said. In addition to service, they offer delivery, installation and set up as well as in-home design and consulting services for customers.

Great Bend Appliance showcases Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid and Amana appliances. The Sleep Source offers beds, mattresses, headboards and sheets. Serta’s gel-infused iComfort bed is a best seller, and they offer Corsicana and the new Tempurpedic family of products, plus a new line of Sealy hybrid mattresses.

The England furniture division is a La-Z-Boy company that offers many different furniture products. Additions over the years include: Oreck vacuum cleaners, SunHeat infrared heaters and LG, Samsung, Panasonic and Toshiba flat-panel televisions.

“We are always looking for that next niche in the market,” Pruter said. “We try to have something for everyone. That’s how we succeed – by diversifying and listening to customer requests and needs.”

The business was honored as Outstanding Business of the Year by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce in 2005, and was awarded the BrandSource Dealer of the year in 2005.

Employees include co-owner Sherry Pruter, Kenny Pruter, Steven Nagel, Rachel Nagel, Eric Rostine, Eric Johnson, Eric Juergensen, Audra Rostine, Chonny Simonson, Teresa Wondra, Shelly Post, Jeni Doan, Pablo Ibarra, Tammy Dreese, Daniel Hammeke, Chris Jeska, Kevin Wondra, Roland Nagel, Kenny Harman, Grant Doan and Sue Johnson.

Barton County Source

43

Specializing in Irrigation Design & Service

Ag Systems, Inc. 810 E 14th/U.S. 56, Larned has serviced this area since 1983.

Rocke Foster, Manager has worked in irrigation design & service since 1997. The service department of 8 factorytrained technicians has more than 200 years of combined experience. For service or irrigation design, contact Rocke Foster, Tyson Atteberry, Justin Woods, Monte Hirsh or Bryan VanSickle.

They service and stock parts for all brands of center pivots covering an area from Dodge City to Ellinwood and Hays to Pratt.

Pratt Valley Center Pivots are celebrating 60 plus years of service and are committing all of their future years in conserving water with the newest innovations in sprinkler packages and computerized panels.

To better serve their customers, Valley Center Pivot Dealer, Ag Systems, Inc. of Larned, provides insurance services for all

major brands of irrigation equipment.

Debora Fox-Johnson is licensed by the state of Kansas and Nebraska to write policies through Diversified Agrisurance.

Diversified has been insuring and financing center pivots, new and used, for more than 40 years. They are the largest single insurer of irrigation equipment. Contact Debora for your “no obligation” quote for your financing and insurance needs.

Services at Ag Systems include a well stocked parts department carrying McCrometer flow meters, galvanized check valves valves, and Ag Sense monitors monitors. They are now using technology to enhance water management with Valley Scheduling and Valley 365. Contact Rocke Foster or Justin Woods for more information Ag Systems is committed to offering the best Service, Parts, and Irrigation Design for years to come.

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Ag makes profound

economic impact K ansas is truly a breadbasket state, and Barton County stands as a key part of that.

Farming is the largest industry in the state making up over 40 percent of the economy with about 90 percent of the land devoted to agricultural production and nearly $5 billion in ag exports. It is a key economic driver and employer in Barton County.

The county has ranked in the top 25 of wheat-producing counties the past several years and its 628 farms cover 557,961 acres, or most of its 900 square miles. Of those acres, 315,051 are in crop land and 126,336 are pasture.

In 2020, ag and ag related economic sectors had a total direct output of approximately $661 million and accounted for 1,522 jobs in Barton County.

The total regional agricultural impact from food and processing was $810,200,000 Kansas, as a whole, is a national leader in wheat, grain sorghum and beef production.

The state ranks number one nationally in wheat production, first in grain sorghum and in the top six for cattle production. It ranks seventh in overall agricultural exports.

Cat and dog food manufacturing employs 293 people and produces $384,600,000 to Barton County’s economy. Cattle ranching and farming employs 512 people and produces $148

million in revenue. Grain farming employs 138 people and delivers $62 million in revenue.

Farming roots run deep in Barton County. Many family farms can trace their origins back 100 years or more.

Wheat has flourished In central Kansas, wheat is still king. It has been that way since the 1870s when the first pioneers and European settlers brought with them some of the crops that did well in their home countries. At that time, corn was the primary crop grown.

In the 1870s, about 5,000 Mennonites settled in Kansas from Russia, bringing with them Red Turkey winter wheat because its kernel was high in protein, and compared with other varieties, was more drought tolerant and disease

resistant.

Nearly 150 years later, winter wheat still thrives in Kansas.

The official projection for total production numbers of hard red winter wheat to be harvested this year in Kansas was 359 million bushels, up 28% from last year’s crop. Officials estimated the average yield forecast at 52 bushels per acre, up seven bushels from last year.

The wheat harvest typically takes place in late June and into July.

More diversity Increasingly, agricultural resources provide raw materials for a broad range of nonfood products, such as chemicals, fibers, construction materials, lubricants and fuels.

Now, there is an effort to cultivate hemp in the county and area. In fact, it was a big

theme during the annual Great Bend Farm, Ranch and Hemp Expo which takes place in April at the Expo complex west of Great Bend.

Also, developing and commercializing biobased and bioenergy products provide new and expanded markets for agricultural feedstocks, it reduces our nation’s dependence on petroleum and other imported materials and it helps diversify agriculture. As the world population grows and as demand for animal protein increases, Kansas farmers and ranchers will play a critical role in feeding Kansas families and families around the world.

Although it hasn’t made a foothold in Barton County yet, some farmers have experimented with growing cotton. It has taken off some in counties south of Barton.

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Specializing in Insurance Coverage for Center Pivots

Ag Systems Inc. 810 E. 14th St. (U.S. 56), Larned, only wants the best for their Customers. That is why they utilize Diversified Agrisurance for their Customers’ center pivot insurance needs. Trouble – even disaster – can happen in the blink of an eye. Don’t wait until you have a claim to find out what is and isn’t covered!

When choosing an insurance provider for your “major brand” center pivots, it is important to pick a Company that knows and understands the irrigation business. Diversified Agrisurance has over 40 years of experience and has become the single largest insurer off mechanized irrigation equipment in the nation! Coverage is provided through C ntral States Indemnity Co. of Omaha, an A+ rated Ce Insurance Company.

Their policy covers most direct physical losses to covered property. Unlike most of the competitors, their policies do not depreciate the value of the equipment in the event of a

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loss. They pay full cost, less deductible, on pivots up to 35 years of age, to repair or replace, whichever is less, up to the insured value shown on the policy. In addition, coverage is available for sudden structural damage to your pivot caused by or resulting from mechanical or electrical failure for qualifying pivots less than 20 years old. Limited coverage is available on pivots over 35 years of age.

Claims always seem to happen at the most inopportune time – usually within the heart of irrigation season. Ag Systems Inc. promises to get you up and running as quick as possible – Diversified fi Agrisurance can settle most claims quickly with an estimate, photos of damage, and simple proof of loss form!

Is it time for a Center Pivot Insurance Checkup? They have competitive premiums! Feel free to stop in or call Debora Fox-Johnson for your “No Obligation” Quote.

620-285-2111 service or parts http://www.agsystemsirrigation.com

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48

long-time partners Oil, Barton County

F

or over a century, Barton County has substantial oil and gas production playing a vital role in our local industry that fuels the economy.

The industry provides abundant entrepreneurial opportunities including pumping, welding, supplies, drilling, and testing.

In 2020, Barton County ranked 552th of the 3,006 counties nationwide in oil production. It ranks fourth in the top 10 petroleumproducing counties in Kansas,

producing 1,386,391 barrels of oil from 1,871 wells. In addition, 167,059 Mcf (thousand cubic feet) of natural gas came from 19 wells.

In the beginning, a group of Barton County speculators, in search of oil or coal, drilled the first “oil” well in the county in 1886. They began drilling in the area of the Cheyenne Bottoms, four miles north of Great Bend, in the spring of 1886, and continued into the fall of the next year, until salt water began pouring from

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Barton County Source

the well. The flow could not be stopped, and ended up ruining a sizeable portion of land because nothing would grow there from that point forward.

The second attempt in 1887 at the Cheyenne Bottoms found oil, but the well was plugged because it produced too much salt water as a by-product. Then, two major fields were discovered around Ellinwood and the town now called Claflin. These were the Silica and Bloomer fields. Their discoveries led to several wells being dug, and the area is still productive today.

Natural gas was also found, and is contained for commercial use.

By 1936, there were more than 100 producers in Barton County, with a production potential of 130,000 barrels a day, and a monthly allowable production of 261,000 barrels, according to accounts in the Aug. 12, 1936, edition of The Great Bend Daily Tribune.

Great Bend was home to an oil refining plant with a capacity of 800 barrels a day. Many landowners made money from their holdings as producers and/or lease

holders.

In 1936, with the country suffering during The Great Depression, this was especially important because even businessmen who weren’t involved in oil production still felt its impact.

Oil has seen several ups and downs over the years.

For a time, several major players in the industry had offices in Great Bend, but as companies consolidated and new refining processes were developed, technology changed, and the need to upgrade equipment prevailed. The big players closed offices and relocated in places like Texas where production was higher.

In 1931, there were 31 Kansas refineries operating in Arkansas City, Chanute, Chase, Coffeyville, El Dorado, Fredonia, Galva, Garnett, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Kansas City, Natoma, McPherson, Neodesha, Parsons, Phillipsburg, Potwin, Russell, Scott City and Wichita. Few have been built since the 1940s, and several older ones have been closed. Today, three located in McPherson, Coffeyville and El Dorado are all that are left.

W B

ARREN SINCE 1994 ROS., INC.

INDUSTRIAL COATING SERVICE

Oilfield

Industrial & Commercial "MM 1PSUBCMF &RVJQNFOU

$ISJT 8BSSFO Over 41 years experience

1 0 #PY t 4 )JHIXBZ (SFBU #FOE

t 5PMM 'SFF

Auto Detailing

Appliance Repair

Sales & Service

10th & Morton Street, Great Bend, KS

620-792-3999

9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Mon-Fri t 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sat

Drive a clean car-you’ll feel better!

UI t (SFBU #FOE

Marmie Ford 620.793.5427 800.284.4941

Marmie Chrysler 620.792.2571 800.239.7840

Marmie Chevrolet 620.792.8266 800.794.4675

-BODF )BTFMIPSTU t -FPO )BTFMIPSTU

Electric

Locksmith

Boutique & Tanning

We’ve got you covered!

Terry G. Lewis

255 W Barton County Road, Great Bend, KS

Owner & Certified Locksmith Great Bend, KS 67530 ,&:4 r “CALLING US IS A DECISION YOU CAN FEEL SECURE IN!”

1657 Hwy 96, Great Bend Westgate Shopping Center 620-793-8862

Tire & Auto Service

Dry Cleaning

Certified Public Accountants

620-792-7426

NEBRASKALAND KANSASLAND COLORADOLAND TIRE GROUP

1110 Kansas 620-793-3576 Great Bend

1400 Polk Street Great Bend, KS 620-792-5378

Tire and Auto Service Professionals

%SZ $MFBOJOH r 1SFTTJOH *SPOJOH 8FEEJOH (PXO 1SFTFSWBUJPO BOE .PSF

www.spectrumcpa.com

Fire Sprinklers

Shop Local and Save

Hardware

1820 Main Great Bend, KS 67530 www.thetirestore.com

620.793.5477 Fax: 620.793.8432 Toll Free: 800.658.1620

Proudly serving Kansas since 1894!

Since 1905

'JSF 4QSJOLMFS %FTJHO t $POTVMUJOH *OTQFDUJPOT 'JSF %PPS *OTQFDUJPO t #BDLnPX 5FTUJOH - 24 Hour Service -

5425 2nd Street, Great Bend, KS 620-792-6400 www.pryorautomatic.com

1649 W K-96 Hwy Great Bend, KS 67530 620-792-4301 WatersHardware.com GerkenRentAll.com

Let our experienced staff help you with your project!

UI 4U (SFBU #FOE t www.homelumbersupply.com Barton County Source

49

50

Education W

hether learning to read or wanting to acquire an advanced degree, the educational needs of Barton County residents are met through a variety of public and private institutions.

There are public schools in Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington, as well as the Central Plains school district that includes CPHS in Claflin. But there are other options, with parochial and private schools and an alternative learning center. The special needs population is served, as well as a chance for adults to continue their education or get their GED. Citizenship preparation and classes to learn the English language are also available.

At Barton Community College, students can earn industry certifications and career technical degrees in addition to the traditional associate degrees and transfer options with numerous four-year universities.

Preschools and after-school enrichment programs are also available.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS GREAT BEND USD 428 Mascot: Panthers 620-793-1500, 620-793-1585 (fax) 201 South Patton Rd., Great Bend TV Channel 21, www.usd428.net The Board of Education meets at 5:00 p.m. the second Monday of each month District Education Center 201 S. Patton Road, Great Bend Superintendent Khris Thexton 620-793-1500 Athletic Director David Meter 620-793-1521 Schools and Principals Park Elementary School 1801 Williams, Great Bend Adam Cline, 620-793-1505

Eisenhower Elementary School 1212 Garfield, Great Bend JoAnn Blevins, 620-793-1501

Integrated Learning Center 2027 Morton, Great Bend Bill Maddy, 620-793-1521

Jefferson Elementary School 2716 24th, Great Bend Adam Niedens, 620-793-1502

Barton County Special Services Cooperative 2535 Lakin, Great Bend Christie Gerdes, 620-793-1550

Lincoln Elementary School 5630 Broadway, Great Bend Misty Straub, 620-793-1503 Riley Elementary School 1515 10th, Great Bend Beth Rein, 620-793-1506 Great Bend Middle School 1919 Harrison, Great Bend David Reiser, 620-793-1510 Great Bend High School 2027 Morton, Great Bend Tim Friess, 620-793-1521

Parent Teacher Resource Center 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1633 CENTRAL PLAINS USD 112 Mascot: Oilers 600 S. Main, P.O. Box 168, Holyrood 785-252-3695 www.usd112.org The Board of Education meets at 6:00 p.m. the second Monday of each month; at various locations Superintendent Greg Clark Athletic Director Pat Stiles 620-587-3801

Education

Schools and Principals Central Plains Elementary School 600 S. Main, Holyrood Jane Oeser, 785-252-3666 Central Plains High School 700 Albro, Claflin Toby Holmes, 620-587-3801 ELLINWOOD USD 355 Mascot: Eagles 300 N. Schiller, Ellinwood 620-564-3226 620-564-2206 (fax) www.usd355.org The Board of Education meets at 6:00 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Ellinwood School Community Library 210 N. Schiller, Ellinwood Superintendent Ben Jacobs 620-564-3226 Athletic Director Alex Nuss 620-564-3136 Schools and Principals Ellinwood Grade School 310 E. 6th, Ellinwood Joel Kahnt, 620-564-2750

Ellinwood Middle School 210 E. 2nd, Ellinwood Mark Cook, 620-564-3136 Ellinwood High School 210 E. 2nd, Ellinwood Mark Cook, 620-564-3136 HOISINGTON USD 431 Mascot: Cardinals 165 West Third, Hoisington 620-653-4134 620-653-4073 (fax) www.usd431.net The Board of Education meets at 7:00 p.m. the first Monday of each month at Education Office 165 West Third, Hoisington Superintendent Patrick Crowdis pcrowdis@usd431.net 620-653-4134 Athletic Director Faron Craft fcraft@usd431.net 620-653-2141 Schools and Principals Hoisington Middle School 360 W. 11th, Hoisington Pat Reinhardt, 620-653-4951 preinhardt@usd431.net

Hoisington High School 218 E. 7th, Hoisington Joel Mason, 620-653-2141 jmason@usd431.net Lincoln Elementary School 516 N. Pine, Hoisington Karisa Cowan, 620-653-4549 Roosevelt Elementary and Pre-School 315 N. Vine, Hoisington Shellby Walker, 620-653-4470 swalker@usd431.net PAROCHIAL & PRIVATE Central Kansas Christian Academy (private K-8) 215 McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-3477 dottie.dozier@ckcacademy.com Dottie Dozier, Administrator Holy Family School (parochial pre-school-6) 4200 Broadway, Great Bend Karen Moeder, 620-793-3265 office@gbholyfamily.org St. Joseph’s School (parochial K-8) 111 W. 3rd, Ellinwood Cami Thomas, Lead Teacher 620-564-2721

51

Seventh Day Adventist Church and Elementary School (parochial K-8) 7 SW 30 Ave., Great Bend 620-791-7314 PRESCHOOL AND PRE-KINDERGARTEN Barton Community College Child Development Center 245 NE 30th Rd., Great Bend 620-792-9360 Great Bend Children’s Learning Center 1802 22nd, Great Bend 620-792-2421 Helping Hands Preschool 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1615 Little Panthers Preschool 3400 21st St., Great Bend 620-793-1500 Little Blessings Preschool Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th, Great Bend 620-793-8816

Education

52

Holy Family School 4200 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-3265 Incredible Years Preschool 1312 Patton, Great Bend 620-792-4087 Lamb’s Gate Christian Preschool 210 S. McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-3343 Riley Preschool 1515 10th, Great Bend 620-793-1506 Noah’s Ark Preschool First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest, Great Bend 620-793-3451 Roosevelt Preschool 315 N. Vine, Hoisington 620-653-4470 St. John Lutheran Child Development Center 615 N. Main and 512 N. Wilhelm, Ellinwood 620-564-2885

GPS Kids Club 352 W. 12th, Hoisington 620-292-6114 gpskidsclub@yahoo.com

Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. 1521 K-96 Highway, Great Bend 620-792-1325 www.sunflowerdiv.com

COLLEGES

OTHER EDUCATION SERVICES

Barton Community College 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-2701 www.bartonccc.edu (GoBarton.com)

TRIO Central Kansas Educational Opportunity Center 1025 Main (Downstairs, D-111), Great Bend 620-793-8164 online: bartonccc.edu/supportservices/eoc Free services include academic adviser; career exploration and advising; assessments of academic skills and financial needs; information about vocational/technical schools, colleges and universities; assistance with applications for admission and financial aid, reference library.

K-State at Barton Science and Math Building Room S-105 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-786-1188 SPECIAL NEEDS Early Childhood Special Education Services 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1508 Sunflower Early Education Center/Invest in Kids Program 1312 Patton, Great Bend 620-792-4087 SPECIAL NEEDS VOCATIONAL

USD 112 Central Plains 600 S. Main, Holyrood 785-252-3666 AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT Barton Community College Child Development Center 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-7995 TLC Discoveries Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th, Great Bend 620-793-8816

Pathways, ResCare Inc. 2317 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-8501 Residential, Day Program, Vocational, Case Management, Health Maintenance.

Rosewood Services 384 N. Washington, Ave. Great Bend 620-793-5888, 620-793-8393 (fax) www.rosewoodservices.com

Barton County Academy/ESSDACK Steven Polley 1010 Taft, Great Bend 620-792-7995 A wide variety of classes are available.

Students can earn their diploma.

Center for Adult Basic Education 1025 Main (Upstairs), Great Bend 620-793-5794 online: bartonccc.edu/community/ adulted Basic math and reading, English as a Second Language, citizenship, workplace literacy, GED tutors, free practice tests, final tests.

Immunizations

53

Immunization Requirements for the 2021-2022 School Year K.A.R. 28-1-20 defines immunizations required for any individual who attends school or a childcare program operated by a school.

The usual number of doses are listed below however there are exceptional circumstances that could alter the number needed. If you have questions about your child’s immunization status, contact your child’s primary care provider or the health department.

Childhood immunizations are administered through the age of 18. Contact the Barton County Health Department, 1300 Kansas, Great Bend, 620-793-1902, bartoncounty.org/Health Proof of receiving the required immunizations must be provided to the school prior to the student attending the first day of school.

SCHOOL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS • DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis): 5 doses required by Kindergarten, 4 doses if attending an Early Childhood Program operated by a school aged 4 years and under.

• IPV (Polio): 4 doses required by Kindergarten, 3 doses if third dose given after 4 years of age and there are at least 6 months between second and third dose.

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): 2 doses required.

• Varicella (Chickenpox): 2 doses required by Kindergarten. Not required if child has had Chickenpox and it is documented by a physician’s signature. Without a physician’s signature, the vaccine is still required.

• Hepatitis A: 2 doses required by children less than 5 years of age.

• Hepatits B: 3 doses required.

• TdaP/DT (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): All students in Grades 7-12 must have one dose of Tdap regardless of the interval since the last dose of DTap or Td. • Meningococcal (serogroup A, C, W, Y): 1 dose for Grade 7-9.

For Grade 11-12 a second dose is required if the first dose was received before the age of 16. If the first dose was received between the ages of 16-18 only 1 dose is required.

• Hib (Haemophilius Influenza Type B): 4 doses required for children 4 years and under in an Early Childhood Program operated by a school.

• Prevnar (Pneumococcal Conjugate): 4 doses required for children 4 years and under in an Early Childhood Program operated by a school.

NOT REQUIRED FOR SCHOOL ENTRY BUT RECOMMENDED • HPV (Human Papillomavirus): 2 doses recommended at age 11 years. (2 doses needed if started at 11-14 years of age, 3 doses needed if started at 15 years of age or older) • Influenza (Flu): Annual vaccine recommended for everyone 6 months of age or older.

ADULT IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULES MAY BE FOUND ON THE BARTON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT WEBSITE www.bartoncounty.org

Barton County Health Department ,BOTBT "WF (SFBU #FOE t –– Services –– Family Planning Consultation Education, Management and Supplies Abstinence Education Pregnancy Testing Pregnancy and Parenting Services Pregnancy Maintenance Initiative Pregnancy Education and Support Teen Pregnancy Targeted Case Management Teen parent support and encouragement WIC (Women, Infant and Childrens Supplemental Food Program) Nutrition Education Breastfeeding Education and Support Supplemental Foods Maternal Child Health (MCH) Healthy Start Home Visitor Program Education and Reassurance Lead Testing and Case Management Community Outreach Services Call for more information COVID Testing By Appointment

www.bartoncounty.org/Health

Emergency Preparedness Disaster Management and Recovery Community Awareness and Response Healthy Living Laboratory Services Select laboratory services provided Immunizations All Ages Foreign Travel Back to School Off to College Annual Flu Shots Sexual Assault Care Referrals STD Testing Adult Health Well Woman Check Well Man Check Self Breast Exams Blood Pressure Checks Weight/Height Checks BMI (Basic Metabolic Measurements) Education Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Grant Awardee Tobacco Cessation, Healthy Living Guidance Educational Services

Communicable Disease Management TB (Tuberculosis) Testing and Medication Management Education STD Testing, treatment and follow-up Disease Investigation Rabies Investigation Children with Special Health Care Needs Satellite Office Providing specialty medical services and care coordination to infants, children, and youth up to age 21 who have eligible medical conditions. www.kdheks.gov/shcn Child Care Licensing Services Provides guidance and direction with new and existing Child Care In-Home and Public Facilities Car Seat Safety Technicians Guidance and Education on Car Seat fitting and safety Recovery Resource Coordinator Call for more information

Marmie Ford 620.793.5427 800.284.4941

Marmie Chrysler 620.792.2571 800.239.7840

Marmie Chevrolet 620.792.8266 800.794.4675

www.marmies.net 54

Barton County Source

Worship

55

ASSEMBLY OF GOD Encounter Church 601 S. Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5211 BAPTIST First Baptist Church 1601 19th Street, Great Bend 620-792-3894 BAPTIST – AMERICAN Central Baptist Church 3301 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-8491 BAPTIST – INDEPENDENT First Bible Baptist Church 5962 4th Street, Great Bend 620-792-3894

BAPTIST – NORTH AMERICAN

BAPTIST – SOUTHERN

Heritage Baptist Church 2000 Monroe, Great Bend 620-793-9990

First Baptist Church 503A SE 110th Ave. Ellinwood 620-564-2875

First Southern Baptist Church 3301 19th Street, Great Bend 620-793-8444

Regular Worship & Fellowship SUNDAY SERVICES

9:15 a.m. - Grow Groups (2 years to Adults) Nursery Provided 10:30 a.m. - Worship Service & Children’s Church (Ages 4 years through 4th Grade) 6:00 p.m. - Small Group Studies

4VOEBZ 4FSWJDFT -JWF TUSFBNJOH PO 'BDFCPPL (SFBU #FOE 'JSTU $IVSDI PG UIF /B[BSFOF :PV5VCF o (SFBU #FOE /B[BSFOF

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ACTIVITIES

5:30-8:00 p.m. - Evening activities for young and old starting with a meal

PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES 6:00 a.m. - Tuesday 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - Thursdays

4811 Broadway, Great Bend, KS 67530 620-793-6139 XXX HCmSTUOB[ PSH t PGmDF!HCmSTUOB[ PSH

Worship

56

Spanish Mission Church Iglecia Bautista Genesaret 440 Grapevine, Great Bend 620-793-5266 Calvary Baptist Church 307 West A, Ellinwood 620-564-2070 Crosspoint Church 57 SE 20th Rd., Great Bend 620-663-4164

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 122 E. 5th Street, Hoisington 620-653-2963 CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST)

CHRISTIAN – INDEPENDENT Community Christian Church 253 NE 30th Rd., Great Bend 620-792-8215

CATHOLIC

Pawnee Rock Christian Church 519 Centre, Pawnee Rock 620-982-4406

Dominican Chapel of the Plains 3600 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1232 Holy Family Church 1387 NE 90th Ave., Odin 620-587-3628 Immaculate Conception 310 Main, Claflin 620-587-3628 Prince of Peace Parish 4100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1396 St. Patrick Church 4100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1396 St. Rose of Lima Church 1424 Baker, Great Bend 620-792-1396 St. Joseph Catholic Church 214 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2534

Saturday Worship - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Education Hour - 9:15 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

KICKS Midweek Education, Wednesdays during school year, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

TLC Discoveries After-School Program and Little Blessings Preschool: 620-793-8816

2701-24th Street, Great Bend, Kansas 620-793-7894 Office Hours: 9:00-Noon & 1:00-4:00 Monday-Friday http://tlcgbks.wix.com/trinity-church trinitychrch@hotmail.com

Facebook Page: TrinityLutheranChurchKS

Bible Holiness Church 502 Stone, Great Bend 620-603-6632 INDEPENDENT BIBLE Hoisington Bible Church 501 E. 2nd Street, Hoisington 620-653-4533 LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5851 Eisenhower, Great Bend 620-793-7328 913-449-1720

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 1122 Stone, Great Bend 620-792-4647

LUTHERAN – MISSOURI SYNOD

CHURCH OF GOD First Church of God 1224 Baker, Great Bend 620-793-5231

Our Saviour Lutheran Church 5860 Eisenhower, Great Bend 720-378-1102

First Street Church of God 601 E. 1st Street, Hoisington 918-894-9580

Zion Lutheran Church 121 5th Street, Claflin 620-587-3698

EPISCOPAL St. John’s Lutheran Church 512 N. Wilhelm Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2044

St. John’s Episcopal Church 2701 17th Street, Great Bend 620-792-6011

Concordia Lutheran Church 460 W. 9th Street, Hoisington 620-653-4644

EVANGELICAL FREE Grace Community Church 210 McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-7814

Trinity Lutheran Church Worship & Education Schedule

River of Life Foursquare Church 1219 Main, Great Bend 620-792-4933 HOLINESS CHURCH

First Christian Church 5230 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6603

New Life Baptist 364 W. 12th Street, Hoisington 620-653-4028

St. Ann’s Catholic Church 115 Cleveland, Olmitz

FOURSQUARE

Find It At...

The Wright Place

Downtown

t

Flea Marke

Where Bargains and Treasures Abound!

1913 Lakin Great Bend

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

thewrightplace2016@gmail.com

Worship

Houses Worship

LUTHERAN – ELCA St. Mark Lutheran Church 2101 Jackson, Great Bend 620-792-4796 Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th Street, Great Bend 620-793-7894

Great Bend Gathering 407 McKinley, Great Bend (use back door) 785-342-3975

Peace Lutheran Church 1243 CR 400, Rural Albert 620-923-4624

Heartland Community Church 4907 10th Street, Great Bend 620-603-6061

St. Paul Lutheran Church 402 Main, Galatia 620-617-1590

Peace United Church of Christ 4 miles North of Hudson 492 NE 140th St. 620-786-9780

Emmanuel Lutheran Church 1109 N. Vine, Hoisington 620-653-4345

Prodigal Ministries 820 Hickory, Great Bend 620-793-5175

NAZARENE First Church of the Nazarene 4811 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6139

Solid Word Church 2005 Kansas St., Great Bend 620-797-0185

Hoisington Church of the Nazarene 359 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-4122

PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 2400 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-2594

NON-DENOMINATIONAL The Cornerstone Fellowship 1609 24th Street, Great Bend 620-792-7852

PROTESTANT New Jerusalem Church 300 Santa Fe, Pawnee Rock 620-982-4520

Crosswinds of Kansas Bikers Church 354 W. 1st, Hoisington 620-282-1908

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

Faith Community Church 293 W. Barton Co. Road, Great Bend 620-793-8084

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 7 SW 30th Ave., Great Bend 620-793-5096

Fellowship of Faith Bible 1301 Sheridan, Great Bend 620-792-5440

St. Patrick Church

St. Rose of Lima Church

4100 Broadway

Broadway & Baker

GreatBendCatholic.com

620-792-1396

Sunday Eucharist Saturday Saturday Sunday

5:00 pm 5:30 pm 8:00 am

St. Patrick St. Rose St. Rose

57

Sunday Sunday

10:00 am St. Patrick 12:30 pm St. Rose (Spanish)

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST First Congregational United Church of Christ 3400 21st Street, Great Bend 620-792-5346 Immanuel United Church of Christ 701 N. Fritz Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2950 METHODIST Foundry Methodist Church 5401 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-3327

UNITED METHODIST Ellinwood United Methodist Church 300 W. 1st Street, Ellinwood 620-564-2056 First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest, Great Bend 620-792-2148 First United Methodist Church 467 W. 3rd Street, Hoisington 620-653-2119 King United Methodist Church 1608 Odell, Great Bend 620-793-6778 Trinity United Methodist Church 5700 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6016 United Methodist Church 120 3rd Street, Claflin 620-587-3505

3301 Lakin Great Bend 620-793-8491 Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Charlotte Maxwell centralbaptistgb@gmail.com www.cbc-gb.com

58

They want to help

I

n November of 2006, David and Karla Gonzales opened Achieve Rehab, Central Kansas’ only outpatient rehab facility that specializes in the treatment of all conditions of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. David is an occupational therapist and a certified hand therapist. Karla is a certified occupational therapy assistant. David and Karla have a combined experience in rehabilitation of over 40 years.

“We got into occupational therapy to help people, and this

is our philosophy at Achieve Rehab: to provide hands-on expertise, using the latest, most effective treatment methods available to help people get back to their active lifestyle and what means most to them,” their philosophy statement reads. “We want our patients to have less pain with more function, and learn how to prevent future injuries. We are committed to giving our patients the latest most up to date methods of therapy, and the personal one on one touch people need the most.”

I just had shoulder surgery...

Now where do I go for therapy?

Whether it is muscle or joint injuries, post-surgery rehab of the shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand, a return-towork program, fall prevention programs, or educating you about preventing pain or injury, the staff at Achieve Rehab is committed to your satisfaction.

They serve Great Bend, along with Barton, Pawnee,

Rush, Rice, Stafford and Russell counties. They offer free consultations to identify painful conditions and to determine how to best help.

Their office can be contacted at 620-792-2111. Their hours are 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Friday, with other appointments available to fit one’s schedule.

Call or stop by for a tour today!

7 785-222-2574 85-222-25 -2574 74

I fell off my bike...

Now that my doctor said it’s time for hand therapy, where do I go?

A Certified hand therapist is THE expert for any Orthopedic Rehab, from shoulder to hand.

Here’s what our patients say about Achieve Rehab: “I had a rotator cuff surgery on my right shoulder. I was afraid I’d never use my arm again. I am so pleased that I have the full rotation of my right arm.

I would fully recommend David’s professional expertise to anyone.” -BL “I caught my hand in an auger. After surgery, I went to Achieve Rehab. Through weeks of hand therapy, I could brush my teeth again! We are very lucky in our area to have such a hand expert. I am grateful that he always encouraged me.” -MT

David Gonzales OT, CHT

The Shoulder, Elbow and Hand Specialist

1PML 4U t (SFBU #FOE ,4 t 58

Barton County Source

Providing a continuum of care to meet changing healthcare needs

Retirement Apartments Assisted Living Center Skilled Nursing Center $W 7KH &URVVURDGV :KHUH &DUH %HJLQV

ELLINWOOD HOSPITAL AND CLINIC 605 N. Main, Ellinwood, 620-564-2548 ellinwooddistricthospital.org PROVIDERS Charlie Joslin, MD Christopher Brown, MD Robin Durrett, DO, FACS, FACOS Kelli Nash, APRN ,BZMFF )BSSJT "13/ r +PTF 3FOUFSJB "13/ %FCCJF 8PMGF "13/ r %JBOF )BJOFT "13/ 24/7 ER CARE INPATIENT CARE OUTPATIENT SERVICES IV Therapy & Injections, Port-A-Cath & PICC Line Care.

Allergy Injections THERAPY SERVICES Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy Troy Moore, DPT Scott Tillotson, PT IMAGING SERVICES X-Ray, CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound, Mammography, DXA, & EKG DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL LABORATORY

ELLINWOOD CLINIC

611 N. Main, Ellinwood, 620-564-3771 ellinwooddistricthospital.org FAMILY CARE Well-Child & General Checkups, School & DOT Physicals, Well-Woman Exams, Acute Illnesses, Chronic Illnesses and Conditions, Sports/Work Injuries, Childhood Vaccinations SPECIALTY SERVICES Endoscopy and Cardiology

Why choose Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic for your care?

For generations, families have chosen Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic for their family’s healthcare needs. :H RරHU D XQLTXH DSSURDFK WR PHGLFLQH ZH WDNH WKH WLPH WR JHW WR NQRZ \RX DQG \RXU IDPLO\ WR OLVWHQ WR \RX DQG \RXU TXHVWLRQV DQG FRQFHUQV DQG WR FDUH IRU \RX DV D SHUVRQ :LWK QHZ WHFKQRORJLHV RSHQ OLQHV RI FRPPXQLFDWLRQ DQG D GHGLFDWHG WHDP RI NQRZOHGJHDEOH KHDOWKFDUH SURIHVVLRQDOV WKDW FDUH DERXW \RX \RX·OO EH RQ WKH ZD\ WR \RXU EHVW OLIH HYHQ TXLFNHU 2XU WHDP LV GHGLFDWHG WR \RXU FDUH DQG \RXU KHDOLQJ

We’ll treat your family like our family.

Barton County Source

59

Trust your healthcare to the experts.

Make an appointment at one of our Great Bend locations.

Great Bend Campus 514 Cleveland St. Great Bend, KS 67530 Hospital 620-792-8833 Medical Pavilion 620-792-2151 St. Rose Medical Pavilion 3515 Broadway Ave. Great Bend, KS 67530 620-792-2511

At The University of Kansas Health System, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care to the people we serve. And, as part of the region’s premier academic health system, our care teams in Great Bend offer you the latest primary, specialty and surgical care right here, close to home – where you and your family need it most.

60

Barton County Source

Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic Monday-Friday: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Specialty Care Anesthesiology Jessica Berg, CRNA David Gillenwater, MD Chandra Morris, CRNA Garret Rebel, CRNA Kris Tarlton, CRNA

Jonathan Pike, MD Elise Snapp, APRN Teri Turkle-Huslig, MD Mark VanNorden, DO Gina Westhoff, PA

Pediatrics Marta Edmonds, MD Karen Norris, APRN Harimahefa Ratsimbason, MD Kelli Smiley, APRN Ryan Williams, MD

General surgery Cardiology Kent Gleed, MD Mohammed Janif, MD Hema Pamulapati, MD Rigoberto Ramirez, MD

Convenient care walk-in clinic Kelsey Harris, APRN Jennifer Marsell, APRN Rebecca Popp, APRN Alisha Stinemetz, APRN Ashley Vonada, PA

Emergency medicine Amanda Bickle, APRN Edward Dodge, PA Danielle Kelly, PA-C Peter Mick, APRN Jose Renteria, APRN Jamie Schneider, APRN Deb Tomlinson, APRN Mark VanNorden, DO Gina Westhoff, PA Lisa Whitfield, APRN Derek Yarmer, MD

Family medicine Kristin L. Babcock, PA-C Jeffrey Brozek, MD Amber Fern, APRN Charles Keener, MD Lea Newman, APRN

Patrick Stiles, MD Jason Wiltshire, MD

Hospital medicine Hannah Linenberger, APRN Karla Maharjan, PA Celestine Ofoma, MD Jonathan Pike, MD Jean Pringle, MD Sadie Schnetzler, APRN Mark VanNorden, DO

Podiatry Joshua Boone, DPM Richard Burkey, DPM Richard Krause, DPM

Pulmonology Andrea Coover, APRN Lesa Klozenbucher, APRN

Psychiatry Patrick Stang, MD

Obstetrics and gynecology

Radiology

Meredith Gray, MD Jodi Henrikson, MD Sheila Hein, APRN

Donald Beahm, MD Perry Schuetz, MD

David Creed, MD Jason Gatewood, MD Ray House, MD Brad McCrary, MD John Riekhof, MD Jayden Spencer, MD John Vadaparampil, MD

Orthopedics

Spine surgery

Wade Babcock, PA Gulraiz Cheema, MD Max De Carvalho, MD Randall Hildebrand, MD Caylee Kidwell, PA-C Anne Linenberger, PA

Max De Carvalho,MD

Ophthalmology

Urology Ed Habash, PA Srinivas S. Samavedi, MD

Women’s health Pain management

Sheila Hein, APRN

David Gillenwater, MD Mark Steffen, MD

Barton County Source

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CLARA BARTON HOSPITAL

CLARA BARTON SPECIALTY OUTREACH CLINICS

250 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-2114

252 W. 9th St., Hoisington Cardiology Orthopedics Randall Hildebrand, MD Bassem Chehab, MD 620-792-4383 316-265-1308

CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CLINIC 252 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-2386 Nathan Knackstedt, DO | Internal Medicine T. Scott Webb, DO | Family Practice Kyle Renner, MD | Family Practice Kayla Johnson, MD | Pediatrics Ken Baxa, DO | Rheumatology Debra Brockel, PA Phillip Barnes, PA Kelci Burkey, PA-C Taylor Bieberle, PA-C Jenna Snell, PA-C Brandi Goetz, PA-C Therapy Services Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy 250 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-5065

2nd and 3rd Monday

First and Third Friday

Costy Matar, MD 620-669-2717

Obstetrics and Gynecology Christine Sanders, MD 800-779-6979

Every other Tuesday

Neurosurgery Scott Boswell, MD 785-823-1032 Fourth Tuesday

Urology Andrew Jensen, MD 316-636-6100 First and Third Thursday

Second Wednesday

Podiatry Andrea Drieling, DPM 620-669-2554 First Monday

Pulmonology Humayun Ashraf, MD 620-669-2500 Second Thursday

1031 Jackson, Great Bend Perinatology – Cardiothoracic Surgery High Risk Pregnancy Brett Grizzell, MD, FACS John Evans, MD 866-858-5001 Fourth Tuesday 316-962-7188

CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CLINIC GREAT BEND 1031 Jackson, Great Bend • 620-793-6900 T. Scott Webb, DO | Family Practice Kyle Renner, MD | Family Practice Kelci Burkey, PA-C Jenna Snell, PA-C Debra Brockel, PA

CLARA BARTON SURGICAL SERVICES 353 W. 10th St., Hoisington • 620-653-4191

Second Monday

Neurosurgery Matthew Henry, MD 877-685-2525 Fourth Monday

Jeremy Howes, MD, FACS P.J. Stiles, MD Roxanne Stiles, MD

Leah Alpers, PA-C Ashley Boxberger, PA-C

& ODUUD D %DUUWWWR RQ &ODUD %DUWRQ Pediatric Care

Kelci Burkey, PA-C

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Barton County Source

Dr. Kayla Johnson Pediatrician

Brandi Lowe, PA-C

“We Care About Your Health” Providing Top-Quality Healthcare for Every Member of the Family ACCEPTING: MEDICARE, MEDICAID AND ALL MAJOR INSURANCE

1905 19th Street Great Bend 620-792-5700

522 Broadway Street Larned 620-804-6100

412 Grand Ave. Stafford 620-792-5700

www.HeartofKansas.com

Medical Directory

64 Barton County Health Department 1300 Kansas Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1902 www.bartoncounty.org/Health Catholic Social Service Pregnancy Counseling 2201 16th St., Great Bend 620-792-1393 Clara Barton Hospital Level IV Trauma Center, Skilled Swingbed, 24/7 Emergency Room 250 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-2114 www.clarabartonhospital.com Clara Barton Medical Clinic Family Practice 252 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-2386 1031 Jackson, Great Bend 620-793-6900 www.clarabartonhospital.com Ellinwood District Hospital 605 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2548 www.ellinwoodistricthospital.org Ellinwood Clinic 611 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-3771

Heart of Kansas Family Health Care 1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700 522 Broadway St., Larned 620-804-6100 412 Grand Ave., Stafford 620-792-5700 www.heartofkansas.com

Great Bend

Medicalodges Inc. has been serving communities in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma since 1961.

Offering rehab to home, short term care, long term care and skilled nursing services in your hometown. Give us a call at 620-792-2165.

1401 Cherry Lane in Great Bend.

The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus Full Service Hospital with Emergency Room 514 Cleveland St., Great Bend 620-792-8833 www.gbregional.com

The University of Kansas Health System St. Rose Medical Pavilion Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic 3515 Broadway Ave. 620-792-2511 www.kansashealthsystem.com/ strose

Move, Feel, and Function Your Best We help our patients with: r #BDL 1BJO r /FDL 1BJO r 5FYU OFDL OFDL DVSWF MPTT r 4IPVMEFS "SN 1BJO r )JQ 1BJO r -FH ,OFF "OLMF 1BJO r /FSWF 1BJO r +BX 1BJO r )FBEBDIFT r 1SFHOBODZ LJET wellness care GPS UIF XIPMF GBNJMZ "OE .PSF

Dr. Sam Beugelsdijk

8BML *OT 8FMDPNF PS $BMM 'PS "O "QQPJOUNFOU

8JMMJBNT (SFBU #FOE HSFBUCFOEDIJSPQSBDUJD DPN

“We Serve and Enhance the Lives of Others with Caring Hands”

Medical Directory

HELPFUL NUMBERS ASSISTED LIVING & CARE SERVICES Clara Barton Hospital Skilled Swingbed 250 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-2114 Country Living of Larned 714 W. 9th, Larned 620-285-6900 Country Place Senior Living - Hoisington 259 W. 6th St., Hoisington 620-653-4121 Good Samaritan Society - Lyons 1311 S. Douglas Ave., Lyons 620-257-5163 Intermediate Swing Bed at Ellinwood Hospital 605 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2548 Leisure Homestead Association 405 Grand Ave., Stafford 620-234-5208 402 N. Santa Fe St., St. John 620-549-3541

Relaxing atmosphere.

Experienced caregivers.

The right amount of care.

5PUBM /VSTJOH #FET t )PVS 1SPGFTTJPOBM /VSTJOH $MPTF UP %PDUPST )PTQJUBM "EVMU %BZ $BSF t %FNFOUJB $BSF 6OJU )PNF 1MVT "TTJTUFE -JWJOH

3FTQJUF $BSF )PTQJDF $BSF )PNF %FMJWFSFE .FBMT *OEFQFOEFOU -JWJOH $PUUBHFT

405 Grand Ave., Stafford, KS 620-234-5208 402 N. Santa Fe St., St. John, KS 620-549-3541

www.leisurehomestead.com

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Medical Directory

66 Locust Grove Village 701 W. 6th, La Crosse 785-222-2574 Medicalodges Great Bend 5926 Eisenhower, Great Bend 620-792-3207 CHIROPRACTOR Beugelsdijk Chiropractic Sam Beugelsdijk, DC 1309 Williams, Great Bend 620-792-3678 Central Chiropractic LLC Derrick Kaiser, DC 117 N. Main, Hoisington 620-653-2147 Sauer Chiropractic & Sports Clinic, PA Aaron Sauer, DC 6 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2555

MENTAL HEALTH CARE

PHARMACY

The Center for Counseling and Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544 www.thecentergb.org

Medical Park Pharmacy 1309 Polk, Great Bend 620-792-1221

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY/ SHOULDER, ELBOW, HAND

Progressive Therapy & Sports Medicine Kevyn Soupiset, DPT Ashley Peintner, DPT Carrie Hildebrand, PT Shawn Jecha, PTA 117 W. 6th, Larned 620-285-6011

Achieve Rehab David Gonzales, OT, CHT 1410 Polk St., Great Bend 620-792-2111 ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Central Kansas Orthopedic Group Randall Hildebrand, MD Joshua Boone, DPM 1514 K-96 Hwy., Great Bend 620-792-4383 The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus 514 Cleveland St., Great Bend 620-792-8833

DENTIST Heart of Kansas Family Health Care 1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700 www.heartofkansas.com

OPTOMETRISTS The 10th Street Eyecare Center 2601 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-2020

t 'SFF *O UPXO %FMJWFSZ t 'SJFOEMZ 2VBMJUZ 4FSWJDF t 1BUJFOU 1SPGJMF $BSE BOE 5BY 3FDPSET 6QPO 3FRVFTU

MEDICAL PARK PHARMACY 1309 Polk Great Bend 620-792-1221 Independent Hometown Pharmacy

You’re Gonna Love It Here

PHYSICAL THERAPY

At our residence your loved one has the freedom to live with choice in their care, while you can be secure that they are being cared for by compassionate and professional staff.

Country Living OF LARNED

ASSISTED LIVING, MEMORY CARE & HOME PLUS SERVICES Please contact us to schedule a private tour of our residence and learn about our customized programs and personalized attention.

714 West 9th ~ Larned, Kansas ~ 620-285-6900 email: Lsmith@CountryLivingofLarned.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Central Kansas Orthopedic Group Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Jake Thompson, DPT Adam Kristek, DPT Mykela Riedl, DPT Jessica Hanson, DPT Jayme Mayers, PT Kayti Trapp, PTA Dominic Trapp, PTA Melissa Tudor, COTA 1514 K-96 Hwy., Great Bend 620-792-4383

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY & SPEECH THERAPY Clara Barton Hospital 250 W. 9th, Hoisington 620-653-5065 Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic Troy Moore, DPT Scott Tillotson, Pt 605 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2548 REHABILITATION/ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Advanced Therapy & Sports Medicine Kevyn Soupiset, DPT Jessica Pauly, DPT Dalton Jones, DPT Dan Crites, PTA Cheryl Ralston, PTA Bonny Schartz, PTA 4801 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-7868

The care you need, where and when you need it Rehab/skilled care and post-acute rehabilitation services

1311 S. Douglas Ave., Lyons, KS 620-257-5163 www.good-sam.com/locations/lyons

Get the whole family involved in 2022!

Discover new ways to improve your family’s overall wellbeing.

Great Bend Events Center Saturday, January 15 10:00 am - 3:00 pm tribune.com

www.gbtribune.com/e-editions/healthandwellness For more information call us at 620-792-1211 or email us at advertising@gbtribune.com Barton County Source

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Museum and Village Barton County Historical Society

Shaping the future by teaching the past

T

he Barton County Historical Society Museum and Village is located on five acres just south of Great Bend on U.S. 281 and includes several buildings filled with artifacts and documents that tell the story of Barton County.

The narrative runs from the pre-Columbian era when Native Americans hunted at Cheyenne Bottoms to the history of the Santa Fe Trail and later the railroads. It continues through two World Wars and beyond, to recent history.

Local historian Karen P. Neuforth, who had served as executive co-director of the museum with Leslie Helsel since 2019, died in March of 2021. Karen dedicated her

life to community service and historical research. She was the museum’s research director from 1986 to 2019.

A new executive director, Richard Lartz II, was selected and Helsel became office

manager. Lartz came to the museum from the Santa Fe Trail Center in Larned.

The historical society members continue to seek new ways to better tell the history of central Kansas, and as it turns out, that history is still used to potentially shape the present and the future in a time of crisis.

As Great Bend Tribune reporter Veronica Coons wrote in March 2020, Hays manufacturer Hess Services Inc. contacted the Museum at the onset of the COVID-19 crisis.

The firm sought to use an iron lung on display at the museum to help design a modern version that might potentially be used to help treat COVID-19 patients.

“We are very proud here that we could help in only a small way,” Helsel said at the

time.

According to an earlier report by Tribune news editor Susan Thacker about the display, the unit was donated to St. Rose Hospital by Aerie No. 646 of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

“By 1986, thanks to widespread use of Dr. Jonas Salk’s polio vaccine, its use was no longer vital and it was retired,” Thacker wrote in the report.

The village also includes historic buildings such as a church, one-room schoolhouse, post office and railroad depot, along with newer buildings added to house antique farm equipment and other large artifacts.

It is just one of many ways the museum hopes to shape the present and future of Barton County by teaching visitors about its past.

Senior Services CLAFLIN Claflin Community Center 409 A Street, 620-587-3707 Activities, Meetings, Games, Birthday Cake and Coffee 3rd Wednesday, 9:00 a.m.

Bingo, 2nd Tuesday, 1:30 p.m.

TRANSPORTATION 620-587-3707

ELLINWOOD Ellinwood Heritage Center 103 N. Main, 620-564-3649 Monday - Friday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Friendship Meals 11:45 a.m.

Potluck Dinner 2nd & 4th Monday Games, Finger Foods, Card Party 1st & 3rd Sunday, 6:00 p.m.

Cards 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Woodhaven Bingo 5th Sunday TRANSPORTATION Ellinwood Heritage Club 620-564-3649 or 620-564-2877

GREAT BEND Volunteers in Action of Central Kansas (formerly RSVP) 1025 Main, D114, 620-792-1614 Volunteers in Action of Central Kansas Advisory Council 2nd Tuesday, every other month 1025 Main, D114, 620-792-1614 Great Bend Public Library 1409 Williams, 620-792-2409 Senior Net, Internet for Senior Adults, Point & Click Internet Class

Senior Center 2005 Kansas Ave., 620-792-3906 Commission on Aging 3rd Tuesday, 9:30 a.m.

Friendship Meals Monday-Friday, noon Birthday, 1st Monday, noon Canasta Tuesday-Thursday, 1:00 p.m.

Coffee & Donuts Tuesdays, 8:00 a.m.

Dominoes Tuesday & Thursday, 1:00 p.m.

Ice Cream, 3rd Thursday, 3:00 p.m.

Pitch, Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.

Potluck, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 p.m.

Senior Center Advisory Council 1st Thursday, 9:30 a.m.

Educational sessions, parties are held at 1:15 p.m.

Newsletters available at Senior Center, Great Bend Rec Commission, High Rise, Central Kansas Public Library Senior Center Rental 620-792-3906 Legal Services, 620-792-3906 Great Bend Regional Service Center (SRS) 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-793-5324 Great Bend Activity Center Megan Hammeke 2715 18th, 792-2604, ext. 210 Bridge, Friday, 1:00 p.m.

Fit for Life Class Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:30 a.m.; 9:45 a.m.

Tai Chi, 620-793-3755 Wii Games, 620-793-3755 Jean Cavanaugh Wellness Area Great Bend Rec Center 1214 Stone 620-793-3755, ext. 2 Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - noon

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program 620-792-1614

Recreation Commission 1214 Stone Street, 620-793-3755

Great Bend City Auditorium Lakin and Williams Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Walkers and Joggers

TRANSPORTATION Catch-A-Ride 620-792-7797 Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Kansas Equipment Exchange 866-666-1470 Kansas Guardianship Program 800-672-0086

Mini-Bus 2005 Kansas, 620-792-3859 Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Van 2005 Kansas, 620-792-3859 Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

69

HOISINGTON The Hoisington Commission on Aging 109 E. 1st, 2nd Tuesday, 4:30 p.m.

Friendship Hall 419 E. 3rd, 620-653-2555 or 620-617-2116 Friendship Meals, noon

Elder Care 5611 10th, Great Bend 620-792-5942 Elder Care Friendship Meals 620-792-1241 Honorary Sportsman Card Barton County Clerk-Courthouse 620-793-1835 Living Independently in Northwest Kansas 1103 Main, Great Bend 620-792-6600

TRANSPORTATION Our Trolley (mini-bus) 620-653-2555 Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Medicaid 800-766-9012

OTHER SERVICES

Meals on Wheels 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend 620-792-1614, 620-792-1833 Also serves Ellinwood and Hoisington

Barton County Health Department 1300 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-1902 Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-4014 Center for Counseling & Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544 or 800-875-2544

Pathways, ResCare Home Care 2317 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-8501 Personal care assistance, instrumental activities of daily living, wellness monitoring, housekeeping

2005 Kansas, Great Bend

TRANSPORTATION ~ CALL 620-792-3859 VAN: General Public Transportation 6:00 am - 6:30 pm

Mini-Bus: Elderly, handicapped, & general public.

Transportation Services - 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

FRIENDSHIP MEALS ~ CALL 620-792-3906 Served Monday - Friday at Noon Persons 60 years of age and older are welcome.

A suggested contribution of $3.50 per person Persons under 60 – $5.75 per person Carryout meals also available Please call by 5:00 p.m. the day before for reservation.

Senior Services

70 Parent Teacher Resource Center Washington School 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1633 Educational service, copying, binding, laminating, spiral binding Social Security Administration 620-663-8341, 877-846-8333 811 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging 620-793-6633 1905 Washington, Great Bend

Food Bank 3007 10th, Great Bend 620-792-4001 Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Kansas Weatherization Assistance Program 877-505-5150 Low Income Energy Assistance Program 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 ext. 200 866-445-4327

Veterans Administration 800-827-1000

Salvation Army 2545 10th Street, Great Bend 620-792-4299

Veterans Hospital 800-878-6881

EMPLOYMENT

UTILITY ASSISTANCE Barton County Emergency Aid Council 3007 10th, Great Bend 620-793-3345 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Older Kansans Employment Program-Kansas Works 1025 Main, Great Bend 620-793-5445 Lyle Dotson 620-225-8230 Thursday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Southwest Kansas Agency on Aging 1905 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-6633, 620-225-8230 800-742-9531

HOUSING Cardinal Apartments, Inc. 1400 N. Clay, Hoisington 620-653-4342 Cedar Park Place 3910 Cedar Park Pl., Great Bend 620-793-8115 Claflin Housing Authority 606 W. Albro, PO Box 332, Claflin 620-587-3595 Ellinwood Heights Apartments 515 S. Bismark, Ellinwood 620-564-3383 Great Bend Housing Authority 1101 Kansas, 620-793-7761 Medicalodges Great Bend 5926 Eisenhower, Great Bend 620-792-3207

We’re Building a Great Team

…and we want you to be a part of it!

Cashco Inc., a progressive valve manufacturer is always looking for qualified candidates to fill our positions.

To apply for current opportunities visit our website today www.cashco.com or call Ellen Kempke, Personnel 785-472-4461, ext. 177 Applications available in our lobby 607 W. 15th, Ellsworth, KS EEO/AAD/ADA Employer

Housing Opportunities Inc. 1313 Stone, Great Bend 620-792-3299 Income based rental properties open to ages 55 and over and/or disabled Barton County Rental Housing Developments The Oaks LP, Ellinwood Northglenn LLC, Great Bend Bedford Place LLC, Great Bend Walnut Creek LLC, Great Bend Walnut Glenn LLC, Great Bend CreekSide Place LLC, Great Bend Cheyenne Ridge LLC, Hoisington WheatRidge LLC, Hoisington Also available is the USDA Rural Development Self Help Housing Program. Income based home ownership program. No down payment, closing costs wrapped into the loan and payments based on income.

Country Living of Larned 714 W. 9th, Larned 620-285-6900 Country Place Senior Living Hoisington 259 W. 6th St., Hoisington 620-653-4121 Good Samaritan Society - Lyons 1311 S. Douglas Ave., Lyons 620-257-5163 Intermediate Swing Bed at Ellinwood Hospital 605 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2548 Leisure Homestead Association 405 Grand Ave., Stafford 620-234-5208 402 N. Santa Fe St., St. John 620-549-3541 Locust Grove Village 701 W. 6th, La Crosse 785-222-2574 Medicalodges Great Bend 5926 Eisenhower, Great Bend 620-792-3207 SPECIAL GROUP ACTIVITIES These groups go on special trips, enjoy social events and expand their knowledge from educational seminars. Call the numbers listed for more information.

American Eagle Club American State Bank 620-793-4275 Club 5-0 Farmers Bank and Trust 620-792-2411 Hoisington Recreation 620-653-4050

ASSISTED LIVING & CARE SERVICES

Preferred Status Landmark National Bank 620-792-2196

Clara Barton Hospital Skilled Swingbed 250 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-2114

Silver Cougar Club Barton Community College 620-786-1136

Get Involved 4-H and Youth Programs ............................................... Great Bend American Red Cross, Golden Belt Chapter ........................... Wichita Barton Community College Foundation.......................... Great Bend Barton County 4 H Holding Board Inc............................. Great Bend Barton County Arts Council Inc. (Law Office) .................. Great Bend Barton County Fair Association ...................................... Great Bend Barton County Historical Society ................................... Great Bend Barton County Young Mens Organization Inc.................. Great Bend Barton County Youth Care Inc. ....................................... Great Bend Big Brothers/Big Sisters ................................................ Great Bend Birthright of Great Bend Inc........................................... Great Bend Boy Scouts (Quivira Council) ......................................... Great Bend Camp Hope ................................................................... Great Bend Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas ........................ Great Bend Center for Counseling & Consultation ............................ Great Bend Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired............................................ Great Bend Great Bend Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) ......................................... Great Bend Child Abuse Prevention Education ................................. Great Bend Clara Barton Hospital Foundation Inc.............................. Hoisington Commission on Aging ................................................... Great Bend Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office .................................................... Great Bend Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library ................................. Great Bend In Ellinwood, Hoisington and Great Bend (United Way) Eldercare Inc................................................................. Great Bend Ellinwood Food Bank........................................................Ellinwood Ellinwood Heritage Senior Center .....................................Ellinwood Ellinwood Public Schools and Community Library Foundation ......................................................Ellinwood Emergency Aid Council ................................................. Great Bend Family Crisis Center ...................................................... Great Bend Food Bank of Barton County Inc. ................................... Great Bend Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland .................................... Great Bend Golden Belt Community Concert Association ................. Great Bend Golden Belt Community Foundation .............................. Great Bend Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice .......................... Great Bend Golden Belt Humane & Animal Welfare Society Inc. .................................................. Great Bend Great Bend Community Theatre Inc. .............................. Great Bend Great Bend Holiday Spirit .............................................. Great Bend Great Bend Military Moms ............................................ Great Bend Great Bend Public Library ............................................. Great Bend Great Bend Recreation Commission Foundation........................................... Great Bend Great Bend Wrestling Club ............................................ Great Bend

620-793-1910 316-219-4000 620-786-1136 620-793-1910 620-792-3595 620-797-3247 620-793-5125 620-792-1619 620-792-2902 620-225-0432 620-792-3316 316-264-3386 620-793-9052 620-792-1393 620-792-2544 620-793-5645 620-617-8980 620-792-5544 620-792-2177 620-653-5012 620-792-3906 620-793-1910 620-792-2403 620-792-5942 620-564-3044 620-564-3649

620-792-4297 620-792-4228 620-793-4111 620-792-2838 620-792-2409 620-793-3755 620-282-2910

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed Sunday, Monday, Wednesday

We Carry High Quality CBD Products

~ PLUS ~

Gift Items!

Funny Socks, Doormats, Candles, Hot Cocoa on a Stick, Diffusers, Essential Oils, Natural Healing Stones, Healing Crystals, and More!

FB: Essential Elements Great Bend KS Jan.EssentialElements@gmail.com

Great Bend Zoological Society Inc./Zoo ........................ Great Bend Great Bend-Barton County Crime Stoppers Inc ............ Great Bend Habitat for Humanity ................................................... Great Bend Hoisington Food Bank .................................................. Hoisington Hoisington Historical Society ........................................ Hoisington Holy Family School Foundation .................................... Great Bend Housing Opportunities Inc............................................ Great Bend Hungry Hearts Soup Kitchen ........................................ Great Bend Jefferson School Parent Teacher Organization Inc. .................................................... Great Bend Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation..................... Hoisington Kansas Oil & Gas Museum Foundation ........................ Great Bend Meals on Wheels Great Bend ....................................... Great Bend Medicalodges Benevolence Inc.................................... Great Bend Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) .............. Great Bend Rosewood Services Roots and Wings Foundation ....... Great Bend Salvation Army ............................................................ Great Bend Senior Center .............................................................. Great Bend Star of Hope International America Inc. ...........................Ellinwood Sunflower Diversified Services Foundation Inc........................................................ Great Bend Intermediate Intervention Program .............................. Great Bend United Cerebral Palsy of Kansas ........................................ Wichita United Way of Central Kansas ...................................... Great Bend USD 428 Education Foundation ................................... Great Bend USD 431 Education Foundation .................................... Hoisington Volunteers In Action ..................................................... Great Bend Western Kansas Technology Corporation ..................... Great Bend Youth Friends ........................................Riley School - Great Bend Park School - Great Bend

620-793-4226 620-792-1300 620-792-1232 620-653-2119 620-282-0913 620-793-3265 620-792-3299 620-282-4014 620-793-1502 620-653-2210 620-793-8301 620-786-7558 620-792-2165 620-792-1614 620-793-5888 620-792-4299 620-792-3906 866-653-0321 620-792-1321 620-793-1930 316-688-1888 620-792-2403 620-793-1500 620-653-4134 620-793-1614 620-793-7964 620-793-1506 620-793-1505

620-564-3226 620-793-3345 620-793-9941 620-792-4001 888-686-6468 620-793-2748 620-792-3000 620-792-8171

3108 10th St. (10th & Jackson) Great Bend, KS

Get Your Health Back Naturally

71

If you can’t stop by, call us @ (620) 796-2259 WE SHIP!!

AT OUR NEW BRANCH LOCATION: 1240 Highway 56 Larned, KS 67550

For all your redi mix needs.

Call: 620-285-3726

Support in Need

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ABUSE SUPPORT Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Support Group 620-792-1885, 866-792-1885 Family Crisis Center 1924 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1885, 620-793-9941, 1-866-792-1885 (24 hour crisis line) Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence 888-END ABUSE, 888-363-2287 Kansas Crisis Hotline

ADOPTION Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th, Great Bend 620-792-1393, 1-800-794-9756

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services 785-296-4986, 800-432-3535 Kansas Department of Health & Environment – Bureau of Health Facilities 785-296-1500, 800-842-0078 Nursing home complaints

ALCOHOLISM/DRUG ABUSE Alcoholics Anonymous 1620 Hubbard, Great Bend 620-793-3962 Sunday 7:00 p.m.

Monday 10:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday 10:00 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Friday 10:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

1910 17th St., Great Bend 620-639-2320 Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Tuesday 5:30 p.m.

Thursday 10:00 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

701 Fritz - United Church of Christ, Ellinwood, 620-282-2950 Thursday 7:00 p.m.

419 East Third St., Hoisington Sunday 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday 8:00 p.m.

Al-Anon 1620 Hubbard, Great Bend 620-793-3962 Wednesday noon Thursday 8:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m.

1910 17th St., Great Bend 620-639-2320 Tuesday 7:00 p.m.

Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-4014 Dream Inc. 2006 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-5152 The Center for Counseling & Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544 www.thecentergb.org Narcotics Anonymous 620-603-0920 www.marscna.net 1910 17th St., Great Bend Sunday 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday noon Wednesday 5:30 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 8:00 p.m.

2123 Forest Ave., Great Bend West entry, upstairs on right Tuesday 6:30 p.m.

Thursday 7:00 p.m.

Triple A 785-342-3975 Anchor for all addictions.

Anchor Room at the Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend

AUTISM SUPPORT Connecting The Pieces Washington Early Ed Center 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-786-0243 Information for anyone who has a loved one on the autism spectrum, whether diagnosed or not.

BREAST FEEDING SUPPORT La Leche League Barton County Health Department, 1300 Kansas Ave., Great Bend Meets the second Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m.

Call Robin 620-617-1663

CANCER SUPPORT Barton County Relay for Life 620-797-5651 Kandi Wolf, Chairperson KS BRCA Support Group First Christian Church 5230 Broadway, Great Bend Second Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m.

CHILD CARE SUPPORT Kansas Department for Children and Families 888-369-4777 Employed parents financial help with child care expenses.

(Cash assistance)

CHILDREN IN NEED 20th Judicial District Court Services 1400 Main, Rm. 306, Great Bend 620-793-1856, Heather Ward hwbtdistcrt@cpcis.net Barton County Young Men’s Organization 1515 Morton, Great Bend 620-792-1619 Barton County Youth Care 2212 Forest Ave., Great Bend 620-792-2902 Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates 1125 Williams, Great Bend 620-792-5544 director@ckcasa.org Child Abuse Prevention Education 620-792-2177 Kansas Department for Children and Families 800-922-5330, 888-369-4777 Call to report abuse.

COUNSELING/MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Healing Hearts Ranch 115 SE 1st, Great Bend 620-792-5173 Equine therapy for children, individuals and families who struggle with emotional and behavioral challenges.

HHR@hhrts.net

The Center for Counseling & Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544 (24 hour emergency number) www.thecentergb.org A Full Service, licensed, Community Mental Health Center

DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Dementia Caregivers Support Hoisington Public Library Shayla Cook, Macy Ingham 620-653-2386 Michelle Niedens, LSCSW 913-945-7310 For family members supporting and caring for individuals with dementia. Open format for information gathering, asking questions, learning strategies and sharing concerns. Hosted by Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics and the KU Alzheimer’s Disease Center.

DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED Rosewood Services 384 N. Washington, Great Bend 620-793-5888 Vocational training assistance and support services. SES Supported Employment Services.

620-792-6012 Southwest Developmental Services, Inc (SDSI) 1103 Main, Great Bend 620-793-7604, 888-793-7604 Sunflower Diversified Services 8823 4th St., Great Bend 620-792-1321 Vocational training assistance, early childhood education, support services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Support in Need DIABETES SUPPORT La Nueva Esperanza Hispanic 1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700 Heart of Kansas Family Health Care Inc. 1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700 Naturally Sweet - Type I 620-617-6700 Candace Herrman Contact for information

ELDERLY Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging 1905 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-6633

EMERGENCY SERVICE AID American Red Cross Disaster Response and Planning 785-827-3644 www.midwaykansas.redcross.org Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th, Great Bend 620-792-1393, 1-800-794-9756

Emergency Aid Council 3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-3345 Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-3094 or 620-282-4104, Kimberly Becker centralksdc@gmail.com LIEAP-Low Income Energy Assistance Program 1-800-432-0043 620-272-5985 The Salvation Army 2545 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4299 United Way of Central Kansas Gaila (Nielsen) Demel 1125 Williams, Great Bend 620-792-2403 unitedwaycentralks@hotmail.com

EMERGENCY AND TRANSITIONAL SHELTER Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-603-6283 centralksdc@gmailcom Transitional living ministry for women with or without children.

Prodigal Ministries of Kansas 620-793-5175, 620-793-9196 815 Hickory, Great Bend Transitional living ministry for men.

73 Barton Community College Center for Adult Education 1025 Main, Room D108 Great Bend 620-786-7560, Molly Mosher mosherm@bartonccc.edu

EMPLOYMENT Great Bend Regional Service Center Kansas Department for Children and Families 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 www.dcf.ks.gov Barton Community College Career Center 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-9349 Central Kansas Educational Opportunity Center 1025 Main, Great Bend 620-793-8164, Jamie Hatfield hatfieldj@bartonccc.edu Flint Hills Job Corps Center 4620 Eureka Drive Manhattan, KS 66503 785-537-7222, 785-564-4900 KansasWorks 1025 Main, Great Bend 620-793-5445 greatbendjobs@ks.gov

SER Corporation 1008 E. 17th St., No. 7 Hays, KS 67601 785-623-4016, www.sercorp.com

FAMILY SERVICE Healthy Families Kansas Children’s Service League 3520 Lakin Ave. Suite 107 Great Bend 620-603-8442 ext. 1922 Vicki Richardson Family Engagement Coordinator 620-868-0139 (cell) vrichardson@kcsl.org Healthy Families of Barton, Rice, Pawnee and Stafford counties is a service that partners with parents to build a community of happy, healthy, safe and smart children ready for school.

Support in Need

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FAMILY PRESERVATION

Meals on Wheels 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend 620-792-1833

Kansas Department for Children and Families 785-296-4653 Intensive in-home services are provided through a contract with a Child Welfare Case Management Provider.

The Salvation Army 2545 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4299

FRIENDSHIP MEALS/ SENIOR MEALS

FOOD ASSISTANCE Ellinwood Heritage Center 103 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-3649

Barton County Health Department WIC Program 1300 Kansas Avenue, Ste. B Great Bend 620-793-1909, 620-793-1902

Great Bend Senior Center 2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3906

Commission on Aging 2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3906, Rosy Tomlin

Elder Care 5611 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-1241

ElderCare Inc. 5611 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-5942, 866-792-5942

Hoisington Friendship House 419 East 3rd, Hoisington 620-653-2555

Food Bank-Ellinwood 701 N. Fritz, Ellinwood 620-282-2905

Claflin Community Center 409 A St., Claflin 620-588-4321

Community Food Bank of Barton County 3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4001

Cheyenne Village 5900 Eisenhower Ct., Great Bend 620-792-6074

HOME SCHOOL SUPPORT

Great Bend Housing Authority 1101 Kansas Great Bend 620-793-7761

Ellinwood Heights 515 S Bismark Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2180

GRIEF SUPPORT Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice Grief Support Group 6:30 p.m. Mondays UKHS St. Rose Pavilion 3515 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-8171

Food Bank-Hoisington 467 W. 3rd St., Hoisington 620-653-2119 Great Bend Regional Service Center Kansas Department for Children and Families 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 www.dcf.ks.gov

Family and Friends Suicide Loss Survivors Group Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend (Use the west door off Stone Street) 620-792-8171 Monday 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Hungry Heart Soup Kitchen 1515 Williams, Great Bend 620-793-9880 Commodities - Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) Financial help with food expenses 888-369-4777

Golden Belt Home Educators (GBHE) 620-793-7359 www.facebook.com/ GoldenBeltHomeEducators www.homeschool-life.com/KS/ gbhe

HOUSING – SUBSIDIZED Cardinal Apartments 1400 N. Clay St., Hoisington 620-653-4342 Cedar Park Place 3910 Cedar Park Place, Great Bend 620-793-8115

Need Help?

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Habitat for Humanity 620-792-1232 Housing Opportunities Inc. 1313 Stone St. Great Bend 620-792-3299 Sommerset Place 5803 16th Street Terrace Great Bend 620-793-8075 Sunflower Housing 5957 Eisenhower Ave. Great Bend 620-792-1325

Contact Me For Bridal Showers, Bridal Registeries And All Of Your Pampered Chef Needs!

We prepare all types of returns

Nita Reimer Call for information

Broken Hearts Grief Support Group 7:00 p.m. Mondays Wolf Hotel 104 East Santa Fe, Ellinwood.

For all types of grief. For questions call Donita Zamarripa, 620-566-7384.

1017 A Jackson St. Jackson Square Great Bend, KS 67530 620-796-2132

Debbie Kuhlman DebbieKuhlman.com pcchefdebbie@gmail.com

620-617-4780

Support in Need PHYSICAL DISABILITIES

Emberhope Youthville 800-593-1950 www.emberhope.org

Living Independently in Northwest Kansas (Link) Inc. 2401 East 13th St., Hays 800-569-5926 linkinc.org

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Catch A Ride Great Bend 620-792-7797

PREGNANCY Birthright 1420 Wilson, Great Bend Betty Schneider – Director 620-792-3316, 800-550-4900

MINORITY RESOURCES Minority Resource Network is especially helpful to Spanishspeaking people learning English who have questions or concerns about community services, health and housing, job opportunities, etc. minorityresourcenetwork@gmail. com

Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th St., Great Bend 620-792-1393, 800-794-9756 Serving all faiths. Adoption, Teen Moms, pregnancy counseling, serving pregnant & parenting teens. Help with drug & alcohol, addiction counseling, marriage education classes, & income assistance.

REINTEGRATION/ FOSTER CARE St. Francis Academy 1508 Main, Great Bend 620-792-7454

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STROKE SUPPORT Stroke Support Group 6:00 p.m. on first and third Mondays Medicalodges, 1401 Cherry Lane Great Bend, 620-792-2165

VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Hoisington Public Transportation 419 East 3rd St., Hoisington 620-653-2555

Central Kansas Association Visually Impaired 620-617-8980 620-793-5645

Mini-Bus/The C.A.B. Area Agency on Aging 2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3859

WEIGHT LOSS

SPECIAL NEEDS CAREGIVERS Caregivers Count Support Group 2:00 p.m. First Sundays First Christian Church 5230 Broadway Ave. Great Bend Sponsored by Sunflower Diversified Services for parents and caregivers of children with special needs.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 827 Claflin Independent Township Library Meeting Room.

Monday 4:30 p.m.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 1151 First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest Ave., Great Bend Tuesday 5:30 p.m.

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Recycling RECYCLING CENTERS Great Bend Sunflower Recycling Drop off Center 5605 10th St. – 620-793-5800 Monday-Friday 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 a.m. - noon Items accepted: Paper, magazines and catalogs, newspapers, books, cardboard; plastic; aluminum (cans may be sold or donated); glass jars and bottles; steel or tin cans (rinse); rechargeable batteries & misc. metals; plastic bottles #1 (PET), plastic bottles #2. Anything put into the recycling stream should be clean of any food, particles, grease, etc. RINSE YOUR RECYCLING BEFORE YOU TOSS IT! Flags are accepted for retirement.

The recycling center now accepts E-waste and bicycles.

Not accepted: Carbon paper, wax paper, foil coated paper, colored plastic containers, plastic food wrap, paper towels, photographs, motor oil containers, window glass, batteries, household hazardous waste containers, plastic foam.

Types of Plastic Plastic #1, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is most frequently used in water bottles and other beverage bottles, food jars, salad dress bottles and mouthwash bottles. The bottles are usually clear in color and not intended for multiple uses.

Ask for local recycling facility whether caps should be left on the bottles or removed.

Plastic #2, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is the stiff plastic used to make milk jugs, fruit juice bottles, yogurt cups and detergent bottles.

Self-service recycling trailer: Located at 18th and Williams Street in Great Bend and open 24/7. Accepted items are plastic bottles; milk jugs; glass; newspapers; and magazines. In addition, the trailer has a large slot for cardboard, which can be broken down and slid into the trailer. Office paper also is accepted but will not go through the confidential-shredding process; that service is still offered at Sunflower Recycling, 5523 10th, where all services remain the same.

Document shredding: Documents can be shredded for 30 cents a pound.

Rosewood Bargain Barn 1215 Main St. - 620-796-2223 Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Items accepted: Rosewood has created a place for businesses and individuals to donate quality items for sale. Proceeds benefit citizens in local communities who have disabilities.

Rosewood ECycle 2200 Main St. – 620-603-8348 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

There’s an outdoor bin for 24-hour drop-off.

Items accepted: All types of electronic waste (E-waste) which means just about anything with an electrical cord (with a few noted exceptions). Rosewood ECycle accepts computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, laptops, televisions, video game consoles, DVD players and VCRs, cameras, cellphones, telephone equipment and just about any other electronic device. Donors will receive a tax deduction receipt when they drop off working electronic equipment for re-sale.

ALUMINUM CANS Kans for Kids 24 hour drop-off at these locations: Claflin 108 Main St. Ellinwood 305 E. Santa Fe Blvd.

Great Bend 2920 10th St. 3920 10th St. (behind Walgreen’s) 700 Frey St. 2801 N. Main St.

Not accepted: Microwave ovens, cathode ray tubs (CRTs) and refrigerators.

Hoisington 201 N. Main St.

Hoisington

Olmitz At the Recycling Trailer

Recycling Center Parking lot of Wilson State Bank

Odin Knights of Columbus

Ellinwood

SCRAP METAL

Recycling Center 203 West 1st St. Open 24 hours

Acme Pipe & Steel Inc. 700 Frey St. Great Bend 620-793-7851

Olmitz Recycling Trailer from Rush County picks up the first week of each month

Heavy Metal Recyclers Inc. 70 SE 16 Road Great Bend 620-388-5636

APPLIANCES, TIRES & HAZARDOUS WASTE

COMPOST SITES

Barton County Landfill 350 NE 30 Rd. – Great Bend 620-793-1898 Hazardous Waste may be disposed of from 8:00 a.m. to noon on the 3rd Saturday of each month, April through October.

CLOTHING & HOUSEWARES Salvation Army Store 2545 10 St. – Great Bend 620-792-4299 Goodwill Industries 1705 Main – Great Bend 620-792-4000

Great Bend One half (1/2) mile south of Railroad Avenue on SW 6 Avenue Ellinwood Park and 7th Hoisington 1-1/2 miles east on Keystone Rd.

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Community

T

he past year has presented many opportunities for Barton County residents to reach out as part of a caring community.

The COVID-19 pandemic was just the beginning. When events were canceled and even shaking hands was discouraged, people found new ways to come together.

And when a vaccine became available, the Barton County Health Department, along with other departments and volunteers, conducted drive-through vaccination clinics.

Rotary Club of Great Bend responded to the COVID-19 crisis with an attention-grabbing display of bright yellow smiley faces and signs to help spread the word that “Vaccines Save Lives.” The smiley kits were purchased through a grant from the Kansas Leadership Center, said Lee Musil, Rotary Assistant District Governor and a former Vice President of Rotary Club of Great Bend.

The Great Bend Tribune posted all of its COVID-19 news stories online where they could be read at no charge, even by non-subscribers. Then the Tribune created two Facebook groups. The “Great Bend Cares” group is a central location for information related to the pandemic. The “Great Bend Connect” group encourages “fun ideas, connections and (positive) discussions.”

Valentine’s Day of 2021 was destined to be a day of caring. The first half of the month brought extreme cold weather, even while some Barton County residents were homeless or living in homes without heat. That’s when Buzz

Birney with Live Like Jesus Today Ministries and Mark Ball with Lasting Life Ministries teamed up to open an overnight warming shelter at 4903 10th Street in the former Ace Hardware building next to Heartland Community Church.

“We had to do something,” Birney said. The shelter provided showers, restrooms, mattresses, bedding, food and toiletries for several days. The effort came together rapidly to meet an urgent need, with addtional support from the Central Kansas Dream Center and local churches.

Also in February, Great Bend USD 428 honored Birney and his daughter Kylee Graves, who works at Lincoln Elementary School, with the ROSE Award, Recognizing Outstanding Service to Education, during the 2020 Christmas season.

USD 428 Director of Teaching and Learning Tricia Reiser said they “provided a phenomenal service to families of USD 428 students. They connected with the schools and others in the community to organize a district-wide giving opportunity that provided students in need with Christmas gifts.” Reiser added, “In their efforts, they spent commendable time learning about the students and choosing the ‘just right’ gift for each of them. Kylee and her father have a heart for the students in our school community. Their example of giving to the community is of the highest measure.”

Another community project resulted in the delivery of care packages to some 250 homebound senior citizens in Barton

and Pawnee Counties around Valentine’s Day. The fourth-annual Boxes of Love Program was a collaboration among United Way of Central Kansas, Elder-Care Home Services, Meals on Wheels and RSVP/Volunteers in Action of Central Kansas. Many groups donated funds, items or manpower to provide this gesture of a caring community.

In June of 2021, The City of Great Bend also showed it cares about its younger residents by conducting Youth Academy, a project that began 21 years earlier.

Middle school students spend a day touring city departments and parks, and then joined City Administrator Kendal Francis for an “idea exchange.”

While tried and true events were back in 2021, some residents found new ways to express their membership as part of a caring community. On the morning of Saturday, June 12, 2021, a small army of about 50 community volunteers converged to give the 900 block of Jefferson Street an exterior makeover. The event was called, “Damn it, Do it Day.” The day was the idea of Sara Hayden, president of Great Bend Economic Development Inc., and Ryan Fairchild, co-owner of Dry Laking Brewing in Great Bend.

“In a short morning with a lot of people who care about the community, we can make a big difference,” Hayden said. “We hope this is not a one-time thing.”

“The idea is to fight apathy,” Fairchild said. “If you see trash, pick it up. We are basically taking that to another level.”

Linn Hogg with Volunteers In

Action said 43 people were signed up to help but a few more showed up. “I’m excited about seeing the community come together,” Hogg said. “There are people here from all walks of life – all ages.”

The tasks for the day ranged from the simple, like lawn mowing and painting, to complex, like replacing siding and repairing doors. Some local contractors also got involved and sponsors helped cover some of the expenses.

“Most people don’t let their property fall apart on purpose,” Fairchild said. Many of the residents assisted simply didn’t have the means, ability or resources to make the needed improvements.

These are just a few examples of our caring community and opportunities to get involved.

Resources for minorities Great Bend residents Angela Delgado and Venessa Favela helped launch the Minority Resource Network, a resource for people who have questions or concerns about any number of community issues, health and housing, job opportunities, etc. Favela works at the Barton County Health Department and also serves as an English/Spanish translator.

The service is open to all minorities and is especially helpful to people learning English, Delgado said.

“If you’re not aware of community resources, you might never find them,” she said. “We’re trying to bridge that gap.”

Questions may be emailed to minorityresourcenetwork@ gmail.com.

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4-H and Youth Programs Michelle Beran, 4-H and Youth Development Agent 1800 12th St., Great Bend 620-793-1910 Kids who are 7 and not yet 19 by January 1 of current year may join.

Clover Buds are ages 5-6.

4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills.

4-H Junior Leaders Michelle Beran, 4-H and Youth Development Agent 1800 12th St. Great Bend, 620-793-1910 American Legion Post #180 1011 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-5912 American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, American Legion Riders, Sons of the American Legion American Legion Post #320 117 E. Santa Fe Blvd., Ellinwood 620-564-3252 American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion American Legion Post #286 204 N. Main, Hoisington 620-792-9961 American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion BINGO: Argonne Rebels, Inc. 12th & Main, Great Bend Wednesday 7:15 p.m. and Sunday 1:45 p.m.

Argonne All Stars Cheer Team Amanda Schnoebelen, 620-617-2341 Artists at Large of Central Kansas Brian Theyer, 620-653-2569 Meets the 1st Wednesday at Great Bend Public Library Barton Community College Foundation 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend Coleen Cape, 620-786-1136 foundation@bartonccc.edu Barton County Arts Council 1314 Kansas Ave., Great Bend Chet Cale, President Barton County Association of Churches Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894 Barton County Association of Retired School Personnel Judy Fox, 620-793-9702 Meets 4 times a year, call for meeting times

Club & Organizations Cottonwood Extension District Programs Donna Krug – District Director 1800 12th, Great Bend 620-793-1910 dkrug@ksu.edu Extension Educational Programs in the areas of Family and Consumer Sciences, Agriculture, and Youth Development are presented across the Cottonwood District which includes Barton and Ellis Counties.

Barton County Fair Friends Barb Davenport 620-792-2647 or 620-797-FAIR Call for meeting times Barton County Historical Society, Inc. Leslie Helsel or Richard Lartz, Director P.O. Box 1091 Great Bend, 620-793-5125 Check website for meeting changes or updates. www.bartoncountymuseum.org Boy Scouts of America 316-264-3386 Camp Hope Gail Moeder, 620-793-9052, 620-786-4055 Central Kansas Piano Teachers League Rebecca Dudrey, 620-793-5603 Meets 5 times a year Central Kansas Threadbenders Quilt Guild Mary Ann June, 620-792-6104 Meets the 3rd Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Heartland Community Church 4907 10th St., Great Bend Visitors welcome Cheyenne Stamp Club James Cochrane, P.O. Box 2009 620-786-4861 Meets 2nd Sunday at North Main Pizza Hut, 2:30 p.m.

In May they meet the 1st Sunday Clara Barton Hospital Auxiliary Marty Schloemer, 620-791-7127 Clara Barton Hospital Foundation Michelle Moshier, Executive Director 620-292-0814 Columbus Club 723 Main St., Great Bend 620-793-3930 Meets monthly

Daughters of Isabella, Immaculate Conception Circle #744 Judy Krebaum, 620-793-6836 Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington, Olmitz, Claflin. A Catholic women’s organization. Meets the 2nd Monday at St. Patrick’s Parish Center, 4100 Broadway at 7:00 p.m.

Ducks Unlimited John Ritchey, Senior Regional Director over Central Kansas 785-844-1136(w) jritchey@ducks.org Josh Williams, Regional Director, Western Kansas jwilliams@ducks.org 785-824-3833(w) Kansas State Chairperson Lynne Rozine, 913-909-0622 lrozine@yahoo.com Ellinwood Community Historical Society Joyce Schulte, 620-564-2886 Ellinwood Hospital Auxiliary Sandy Roth, Ellinwood 620-786-5638 Ellinwood Garden Club JoAnn Roth, 620-564-2920 joannroth@embarqmail.com Meets 2nd Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.

March - June and September - November Ellinwood Knights of Columbus #1187 211 W. 2nd St., Ellinwood John Clayton, 620-566-7040 Meets the 4th Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Ellinwood Marathon Bridge Club Alice Rush, 620-564-2469 Meets 2nd Thursday at 1:00 p.m.

Ellinwood Public Education and Library Foundation 300 N. Schiller, Ellinwood 620-564-3226

Epsilon Sigma Alpha/Beta Nu Kathie Keller, 620-793-6397 Etudion Club Barbara Steiner, 620-793-9614 Meets the 2nd Thursday, September - May Fraternal Order of the Eagles 1024 Main, Great Bend 620-792-4582 Meets the 1st and 3rd Monday at 7:00 p.m.

Friends of Cheyenne Bottoms Steve Divis, President 592 NE K-156 Hwy., Great Bend 877-243-9268 Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland 888-686-6468 Troops are active during the school year, time and date of meeting times determined by troop leader.

Golden Belt Community Concert Assoc.

Linda Jerke, 620-793-2748 Professional musical entertainment brought to this area.

Golden Belt Community Foundation Christy Tustin, 620-792-3000 Golden Belt Model Railroaders Assoc.

PO Box 2069, Great Bend Mark Orth, Great Bend, 620-282-1432 Meets 1st Tuesday and 3rd Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (church basement) 2123 Forest, Great Bend Monday is meeting night, Tuesday is work night Golden Belt Wood Carvers Barry Bowers, Great Bend 620-793-6121 Meets on Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas

Club & Organizations Great Bend Community Theater Wes and Angela Meitner 620-792-4228 Great Bend Desk & Derrick Sharon Hiss, 620-793-4878 Jessica Walters, President www.addc.org Meets the 1st Thursday at 7:00 p.m. locations to be determined.

Membership open to anyone who wants to learn more about petroleum, energy and allied industries.

Great Bend Garden Club Alice Young, 620-793-7169 Meets the 3rd Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

(September - May) Call for meeting place. Anyone interested in plants and gardening is welcome Great Bend Knights of Columbus Council 862 723 Main, Great Bend David Degenhardt, 620-792-3427 Meets the 3rd Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.

Great Bend Military Moms Leslie (Halbower) Barrett 620-792-2838 Sending care packages to deployed military troops. lbarrett3@cox.net Great Bend Masonic Lodge #15 1917 17th St., P.O. Box 613 Great Bend Great Bend Saddle Club Judy Demel, 620-791-7297 Meets the 4th Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Farmers Bank and Trust 1612 Main, Great Bend In existence for over 65 years,the goal is to promote good horsemanship throughout the area.

Active in play days, trail rides and parades.

Facebook page GreatBendSaddleClub-theoriginal Great Bend Zoological Society 620-793-4226 Great Bend Brit-Spaugh Zoo 2123 Main, Great Bend

Habitat for Humanity, Barton County Sister Judith Lindell, 620-792-1232 HabitatBartonCounty@hotmail.com Facebook - BartonCountyHabitat

Rosewood Roots & Wings Foundation 620-796-2242 1213 Main St., Great Bend www.rosewoodservices.com Non-Profit organization helping fund the medical, educational, instructional, therapeutic and recreational needs of clients through fundraising events, donations and grant writing.

Hoisington Historical Society Kenny Eaves, 620-786-5975 120 E. 2nd, Hoisington Hoisington Knights of Columbus Council 152 John Yanda, 620-653-2586 PO Box 149, 114 N. Main, Hoisington Meets the 2nd Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Hoisington Masonic Lodge Jim Morris, 620-786-4585 Independent Order of Odd Fellows Valley Lodge No. 95 Ken Edgett, 620-792-8380 Meets last Thursday at 7:00 p.m. upstairs at 2025 Forest, Great Bend (back stairwell at rear of Forest Avenue Antiques)

Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation PO Box 178, Hoisington 620-653-2210 kans4kids@ruraltel.net www.kansforkids.org Organization provides funding and emotional support for Barton County children 18 years of age or younger, undergoing treatment for cancer.

Kiwanis Club of Great Bend Frankie Pelster, 620-603-6502 Noon on Wednesdays at Walnut Bowl.

League of Women Voters Becky Dudrey, 620-793-5603 Meets for lunch and program on the 2nd Tuesday at Walnut Bowl.

Lions Club - Claflin Lois Krier, 620-792-9922 Meets the 4th Monday, Claflin Library Lions Club, Evening - Great Bend Elwyn Maneth, 620-282-2598 Meets 1st Monday at 6:30 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church 2400 Washington, Great Bend

79

Rotary Club of Ellinwood Mark Cook mcook@usd355.org Lions Club, Noon - Great Bend Lavern Lessor Meets each Tuesday at noon at Playa Azul, Great Bend Mid America Mopar Car Club Gary or Daryl Hertel Mu Kappa Chapter Beta Sigma Phi Alice Rush, 620-564-2469 Optimist of Great Bend Steve Kummer, 620-792-5415 PEO Chapter HR Jan Keeley, 620-792-7029 Meets the 2nd Monday, at 7:00 p.m. in members’ homes Pheasants Forever Rooster Boosters Scot Moeder, 786-0273 http://sagamorepf.com Pilot Club Rhonda Knudson, 620-617-0149 Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday at noon at Perkins, Great Bend The mission of the Pilot Club of Great Bend, Kansas is to improve the quality of life in the community.

The goal of this organization is to achieve universal awareness and prevention of brain-related disorders and disabilities.

Prairie Godmothers Golden Belt Community Foundation Funds 620-792-3000 goldenbeltcf.org/prairie-godmothers Progress Study Club Judy Turner Meets the 1st Monday at 1:15 p.m.

October - May, usually in members’ homes (RSVP) Linn Hogg, 620-792-1614 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend Proactive volunteer clearing house that recruits and connects active adults 55 years of age and older with a variety of volunteer opportunities.

Rotary Club of Great Bend Gail Santy, 620-792-4865 gsanty@ckls.org Society of Creative Anachronism www.sca.org http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ westumbria/ Sunflower Diversified Services Foundation 620-792-1325 Sunflower Rod & Custom (SRCA) Hank Denning, 620-792-5079 www.srcadragstrip.com Tri Circle Duplicate Bridge Club Bob Goeller, 620-617-8592 Every Friday at First Congregational United Church in Great Bend at 12:30 p.m. Open to the public.

Twilight Stitchers Alice Rush, 620-564-2469 Meets 2nd Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Twisted Stitchers Pam Atteberry, 620-587-3610 Meets 3rd Wednesday, except December, at 7:00 p.m.

108 Main Street, Claflin, Independent Township Library United Way of Central Kansas Gaila (Nielsen) Demel, 620-792-2403 1125 Williams, Great Bend Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 3111 504 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-2754 Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 7428 256 S. Main, Hoisington Ethan Kaufman Vintage Wheels Car Club, Inc. 620-793-3420 Meets the 1st Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

Volunteers In Action Linn Hogg, 620-792-1614 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend Xi Delta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894

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Take a break at

Veterans Memorial Park

V

eterans Memorial Park, located at 17th and McKinley St. in Great Bend, is the site of the annual Party in the Park, which takes place in August. A highlight has been the wet-dry parade, a tradition since 2017. The party was canceled in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic but was set to return in 2021.

Vets is a popular park in Great Bend. On any given day, people can be seen fishing, playing disc golf, playing or exercising on the equipment, and taking walks. There is a dog park on the northwest side of the lake.

It is also a fun place in Great Bend to try out the new Bird e-scooters that can be found at various locations around town.

The scooters are not city-owned; they are were brought to Great Bend by brothers Matt and Mason Hiss in order to bring a transportation alternative to town. They can be rented

through a mobile phone app.

Several improvements at Vets Park have been made over the years: • A new Fit Trail was added in 2016. It features 11 workout machines was well as playground equipment for children.

• In 2018, the disc golf course at the park was redesigned and the equipment was updated.

The course was designed by Eric McCabe with the Professional Disc Golf Association.

• Also in 2018, the local Great Bend Tree Board put the final touches on improvements to the Argonne Forest, located in the northeast corner of the park. Starting in 2015, the Tree Board planted additional native trees, created walking paths and adding signs identifying tree species. Then it added an arboretum at the entrance with additional displays to explain some of the historical significance of the area. These include artwork of a World War I soldier

that stands next to a sign that explains the Battle of the Argonne Forrest.

• In 2019, a new toddler playground was added next to the playground equipment for older children in the southeast part of the park.

This popular event was a fundraiser and proceeds will go to the dog park. Although that was still up in the air by summertime, Hammke said the Rec Commission hopes to add an obstacle course item or something that dogs can use for enrichment.

PAWesome new event The Great Bend Recreation Commission’s first PAWesome Easter Egg hunt brought dog lovers and their pets to Veterans Memorial Park on a Saturday in March of 2021. Dozens of plastic eggs were scattered throughout a field north of the dog park.

When Megan Hammeke from the Rec gave the signal, the dogs were allowed onto the field.

The dogs were on leashes and their humans carried baskets.

“When your dog’s nose or paw touches an egg, you put it in your basket,” Hammeke explained.

About the dog park Back in 2010, a group of dog lovers started raising money for the Bark Park, a safe place for off-leash play dates where dogs could run to their hearts’ content or socialize with new friends. They started another tradition, Bark at the Waterpark, as a fundraiser. Each summer after the Wetlands Waterpark closes for the season, the pool is turned over to the pooches for an afternoon of dog paddling. Donations are accepted for improvements to the Bark Park.

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A hidden

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ake ak ke Barton Bartton Ba on Trail Traail (Barton (Baart rton on County Lake) C L k ) is i llocated d about four miles north of Great Bend on U.S. 281. The “lake” is actually dry and there is a two-mile trail that circles the former lake bed. It’s mostly flat singletrack, but there are several short, steep climbs near the dam, and several side trails that offer more technical sections.

It offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options such as mountain biking, hiking and running.

Barton Lake was drained in the 70’s or 80’s and the singletrack takes advantage of the side slopes along the edges.

Most of the trail is winding singletrack (some places have extremely sharp turns) and there are some challenging climbs.

The area is well maintained.

There are lots of old growth cottonwoods and cedar trees all around.

The trail is bi-directional, but the locals recommend clockwise, however some like to ride it counter-clockwise.

It is tucked down in the trees and is well protected from the wind, it’s a favorite place to ride in the winter when it’s too cold to ride Wilson Lake or road ride.

Emergency Hotlines

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The Kansas Crisis Hotline 888-363-2287

Stop It Now! 888-773-8368

Animal Abuse Reporting 620-792-4297 or 911

Missing/Abducted Children National Center Missing & Exploited Children 800-843-5678

Child/Adult Abuse Reporting 800-922-5330 Childhelp® 800-422-4453

Child Find of America 800-426-5678, 845-883-6060 Youth in Trouble/Runaways 800-786-2929

Domestic Abuse Sexual Assault 888-363-2287 888-END-Abuse 800-799-7233 Rape/Incest 800-656-4673, ext. 1 National Center for Victims of Crime 855-4-VICTIM Crime Stoppers 620-792-1300, 888-305-1300 Family Crisis Center 620-792-1885, 866-792-1885 Fraud Abuse Hotline 800-432-3913 Kansas Children’s Service League-Parent Helpline 620-868-0139 www.kcsl.org Kansas Department for Children and Families 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 www.dcf.ks.gov Kansas Department of Health & Environment Nursing Home Complaints 800-842-0078 Kansas Legal Services, Inc. 800-723-6953 www.kansaslegalservices.org Medicaid (Customer Assistance) 816-426-5925

Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) 800-860-5260 Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services www.kdads.ks.gov Kansas Weatherization Assistance Program (KWAP) For Barton County - Interfaith Housing Services, Inc. 1-877-447-5927 Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255) www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org Poison Control 800-222-1222 Tobacco Cessation 800-QUIT-NOW

First Responders

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Fire Departments The fire departments have a big role in the communities as well, be they paid or volunteer.

Great Bend Fire Department Administrative Office and Station 1 1205 Williams St., 620-793-4140 Station 2 - 5851 10th St., 620793-4144

First responders The citizens of Barton County are served by law enforcement by either their own city police or the county’s sheriff’s department.

The sheriff’s department, which has countywide jurisdiction, also helps out in the communities and townships and assists with state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Barton County Sheriff’s Office 1416 Kansas Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1876 The office serves a population of about 28,105 and 894 square miles, which includes nine cities and 22 townships.

VIN inspections for vehicles are done in front of the jail,1408 Kansas Ave. Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and Thursdays 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

CLAFLIN Police Department 620-587-3344 Fire Department 309 W. Front 620-587-3498 CRIME STOPPERS 1217 Williams, P.O. Box 454 Great Bend 620-792-1300 or 888-305-1300 Cash rewards for anonymous information.

ELLINWOOD Police Department 209 W. 1st 620-564-3001 Fire Department 200 W. Santa Fe 620-564-3161 GALATIA Fire Department Fire Chief Steve Wilhelm 620-935-4331 ALBERT Fire Department Fire Chief Charles Keller 5000 3rd 620-923-4504 BEAVER Fire Department Fire Chief Gerald Schauf 481 NE 190 Rd 620-587-3352

BARTON COUNTY Sheriff’s Department 1416 Kansas Ave. Great Bend 620-793-1876 County Jail 1416 Kansas Ave. Great Bend 620-793-1876

GREAT BEND Police Department 1217 Williams 620-793-4120 Fire Department 1205 Williams 620-793-4140 5956 10th St. 620-793-4144

Service is available 24/7 Office hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

The department provides fire protection and rescue for the City of Great Bend and the four surrounding townships. In addition, the department provides EMS response and transport to the same area plus an additional 2 1/2 townships west of Great Bend. The total population served is 20,000 people, and the average response time is 3.5 minutes in the city and eight minutes in the county.

HOISINGTON Police Department 109 E. 1st 620-653-4995 Fire Department 114 E. Broadway 620-653-4125 PAWNEE ROCK Fire Department Fire Chief Heath Dill 508 Centre 620-617-6946 OLMITZ Fire Department Barton Co. Fire District #2 620-653-4125 KBI CONTACT INFORMATION 800-KS-CRIME (800-572-7463) To report or provide information for a crime or to report any drug activity Local Office: 625 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-4354 Topeka (Headquarters) 1620 SW Tyler, Topeka 785-296-8200

FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911

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Barton County B

arton County is poised near the geographical center of Kansas, and is home to the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and many historic sites that tell the story of how the region helped shape the nation as a whole.

From Native Americans to Spanish explorers and settlers on the Santa Fe Trail, many have passed through the region over the centuries.

The Arkansas River, the sixth largest river in the United States, flows through the county, with its northernmost bend peaking just six miles east of where Great Bend sits today.

Indigenous people settled along the river for thousands of years before Spanish conquistador and explorer Ferdinand Coronado and his men traveled through the area in the 1540s.

A 192-mile portion of the Arkansas River in Kansas was designated as a National Water Trail, by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism in 2016. The trail begins in Great Bend and ends at the Kansas-Oklahoma border southeast of Arkansas City.

Barton County is now a hub of state, national and international trade with the Transload Facility at the Great

Bend Municipal Airport. It is also the crossroads of two major highways, U.S. 56 and U.S. 281.

But, the history runs deeper.

Spanish conquistadors and explorers are reported to be the first Europeans to ever visit this portion of Kansas. Nearly three centuries later, the first Americans to officially visit the area were Lt. Zebulon Pike and his men while conducting an expedition to the Rocky Mountains in 1806. Later, this route became known as the Santa Fe Trail, traveled by pioneers heading west for a better way of life. Then the

railroads, and civilization in the form of cities and towns took hold. In 1867, Barton County was created, but it wasn’t until 1872 that the minimum population of 600 was reached in order for the county to be organized.

It was on May 16, 1872 that Gov. Harvey gave the nod for Barton County to be incorporated, and declared Great Bend the temporary county seat. A week later, on May 23, it became permanent, and three townships were created – Great Bend, Lakin and Buffalo.

The people who settled

came from all corners of the globe. Immigrants from throughout Europe settled on homesteads and helped build small towns, as did pioneers from the eastern United States.

There were freed slaves, called “exodusters” who traveled to Kansas looking for a new life, too.

The surrounding prairie was broken and farmed, and agriculture thrived. Through trial and error, they learned that wheat performed very well. Barton County has become a “banner” wheat county in Kansas.

The main line of the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe Railroad followed the Arkansas River, replacing the Santa Fe Trail. It brought goods and people into and out of the area, allowing cities to flourish with trade in the late 1800s and into the first half of the 1900s. In the late 1800’s oil was discovered in Cheyenne Bottoms, a vast marshland of international importance north of Great Bend. The first well didn’t produce, but subsequent drills were successful, and touched off an oil boom in the county.

Early in the 20th century, there was another oil boom.

This added another dimension to the county and is still a big part of the economy.

continue to hold and are rust free with no need to paint.

There is a Lustron home on display at the Barton County Historical Museum.

During the 1950s, Great Bend’s City Parks and Recreation administrator Brit Spaugh slowly created a zoo in the downtown park, which today bears his name. Even then, it was considered unusual for a city the size of Great Bend

BARTON COUNTY

In 1943 during World War II, Barton County became home to the Great Bend Army Air Field, where troops trained to fly B-29 bombers. According to the Barton County Historical Society website, crews worked to “transform this Kansas wheat field into an airfield and training facility. Barracks, airplane hangars, and miles of concrete runways designed to hold the enormous weight of the B-29s.”

After the war, so many families settled in the county, housing was at a premium, which paved the way for construction of several Lustron Homes in the area.

The company from Illinois only manufactured the homes for two years from 1948 to 1950. It went into bankruptcy for financial and distribution reasons, but the houses lived up to their promise as being maintenance free. According to the Lustron Registry, there are still 18 existing Lustron homes in Great Bend standing today, over 70 years later. According to the registry’s website, the baked enamel panels and roofs

GALATIA

SUSANK BEAVER

to have a zoo.

The zoo remains open today and has been updated. The park also now includes the Wetlands Waterpark.

In 1965, Barton County Community Junior College, now named Barton Community College, was founded, offering a local venue for higher education.

The college continues to draw students from all over the

country and athletes from overseas to the county each year.

Today, major industries in Barton County include agriculture, oil, manufacturing and medicine, according to the Barton County website. It is home to four school districts, several recreational attractions, and people who enjoy a combination of quiet country and modern city lifestyles.

ODIN CLAFLIN

OLMITZ HOISINGTON

ALBERT

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

Barton County Population, 2019 estimate............................................................................................................................... 25,779 Population, percent change - April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2019 ........................................................................... -6.8% Population, percent change - April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2019 ........................................................................... -5.6% Population, 2010 .............................................................................................................................................. 27,674 Persons under 5 years, percent ........................................................................................................................5.9% Persons under 18 years, percent .....................................................................................................................23.6% Persons 65 years and over, percent ................................................................................................................19.9% Female persons, percent ..................................................................................................................................50.5% White alone, percent .........................................................................................................................................95.% Black or African American alone, percent ......................................................................................................1.9% American Indian and Alaska Native alone, percent .......................................................................................1.0% Asian alone, percent ..........................................................................................................................................0.3% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, percent ...........................................................................0.1% Two or More Races, percent .............................................................................................................................1.8% Hispanic or Latino, percent .............................................................................................................................15.3% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, percent ..................................................................................................81.0% Living in same house 1 year & over, percent, 2015-2019 ..............................................................................81.8% Foreign born persons, percent, 2015-2019 ......................................................................................................5.5% Language other than English spoken at home, pct age 5+, 2015-2019 ........................................................10.6% High school graduate or higher, percent of persons age 25+, 2015-2019 ................................................... 89.5% Bachelor’s degree or higher, percent of persons age 25+, 2015-2019 .........................................................20.9% Veterans, 2015-2019......................................................................................................................................... 1,546 Mean travel time to work (minutes), workers age 16+................................................................................... 16.4 Housing units, 2019 ......................................................................................................................................... 12,754 Homeownership rate, 2019 ..............................................................................................................................70.3% Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2015-2019 ....................................................................... $93,300 Households, 2015-2019 ................................................................................................................................... 10,624 Persons per household, 2015-2019 .................................................................................................................. 2.45 Per capita money income in past 12 months (2018 dollars), 2015-2019 .................................................... $27,495 Median household income, 2014-2018 ......................................................................................................... $49,723 Persons below poverty level, percent ............................................................................................................13.4%

Kansas 2,913,314 2.1% -6.9% 2,853,123 6.4% 26.3% 16.3% 50.2% 94.9% 6.1% 1.2% 3.2% 0.1% 3.1% 12.2% 81.0% 82.1% 5.5% 11.9% 91.0% 33.4% 176,444 19.4 1,288,401 66.3% $151,900 1,129,277 2.51 $31,814 $59,597 11.4%

Barton County Source

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Barton County Elected Officials

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––– www.bartoncounty.org –––

Donna Zimmerman - County Clerk/Election Officer 1400 Main, Rm 202, Great Bend 620-793-1835, 620-793-1990 fax A four-year term. First appointed to office on June 1, 1995.

Seventh term began January 2021.

In addition to several bookkeeping and records keeping responsibilities, here are other key county clerk’s duties: • Real Estate transfer record – records transfer of ownership from deeds filed with the register of deeds, probates, divorce decrees, death certificates, etc.

• Issues Fish and Game licenses, large game permits, etc.

• Certification of valuation • Prepares homestead/food sales tax returns for low income or elderly persons • Prepares financial reports to the state of Kansas • Acts as the official election officer

Brian Bellendir - Sheriff 1416 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-1876, 620-793-1885 fax A four-year term. First elected August 2012.

Third term began January 2021.

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office serves a population of 27,703, which includes nine cities, and 22 townships. Additionally, the sheriff’s office provides assistance to municipal police departments and assists state and federal law enforcement agencies.

It is also equipped with specialized units, such as the Crisis Response Team, K-9 Unit, a Reserve Deputy Force and an Explorer Group.

In addition to investigation and patrol duties, the department also maintains the county’s detention facility.

The Civil Process Officer serves and executes legal papers, garnishments, divorce papers, protection from abuse orders, evictions, mental petitions, and other legal papers.

James Jordan - County Treasurer 1400 Main, Room 208, Great Bend 620-793-1831, 620-793-1978 fax A four-year term. Second term begins October 2021.

This office acts as a collection agency for the county. It is responsible for collection of all taxes and distributes tax money to all taxing units in the county. For vehicle registrations and title work - proof of insurance is required. Real estate and personal property taxes are due and payable on or before Dec. 20. First half must be paid at that time, second half due by May 10 the following year. Personal property becomes due and payable in full if the first half is not paid by Dec. 20. Personal property includes boats, campers, trailers, motor bikes, etc.

Oil and gas is considered to be personal property.

Driver’s Licenses are issued in Room 207.

Hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. – 620-793-9531

Pam Wornkey - Register of Deeds 1400 Main, Room 205, Great Bend 620-793-1849 A four-year term. First appointed to office January 2013. Third term began January 2021.

This office is charged with recording and preserving all land records. This office has custody of and safely keeps and preserves all the books, records, deeds, maps, papers and microphotographs deposited or kept in the office of the Register of Deeds. The office also records or causes to be recorded all deeds, mortgages, maps, instruments and writings authorized by law to be recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, maintains county school records, Uniform Commercial Code and corporation records, processes passports for the general public and is responsible for the private sale of lots or transfer of ownership through another means for both County owned cemeteries.

All records in the office of the Register of Deeds are open records except for the Kansas Real Estate Sales Validation Questionnaire which is open to those protesting their taxes, Kansas Certified General Real Property Appraisers, Bankers and Realtors.

James Daily Chairman, 4th District Appointment began April 2019 jdaily@ bartoncounty.org

Shawn Hutchinson Chairman pro tem, 3rd District Term began January 2021 shutchinson@ bartoncounty.org

Kirby Krier Member, 1st District Term began January 2021 kkrier@ bartoncounty.org

Barb Esfeld Member, 2nd District Term began January 2021 besfeld@ bartoncounty.org

M. Levi Morris - County Attorney 1400 Main, Room 302, Great Bend 620-793-1851, 620-793-1855 fax A four-year term. Appointed December 2018.

First elected November 2020. barton.cntyatty@bartoncounty.net The county attorney is the chief law enforcement officer in Barton County.

The office handles felony crimes, select misdemeanor and traffic prosecutions.

These cases include murder, rape, robbery, juvenile offenses, care and treatment actions, child in need of care, criminal appeals, select traffic offenses, and many others.

Kinds of records filed in the office: • Patents • Deeds • Mortgages • Leases • Assignments • Releases • Affidavits • Articles of Incorporation • Certificates of Death • Power of Attorney • Military Discharges • Plats • County School Records • Tax Liens (state and federal)

Jennifer Schartz Member, 5th District Term began January 2019 jschartz@ bartoncounty.org

• Cemetery Plats • Ordinances (City and County) • Resolutions (City and County) • Bankruptcy • Cemetery Deeds • Certificates of Valuation • City Boundary • Covenants & Restrictions • Easements & Right of Ways • Sub-divisional Plat • Maps & Surveys • Mechanic’s Liens

Barton County has five elected Commissioners who meet Mondays at 9:00 a.m. unless otherwise announced.

They meet in Room 106, located on the first floor of the Courthouse, 1400 Main Street, Great Bend.

All meetings are open to the public.

620-793-1847 or 620-793-1800 620-793-1807 Fax

Barton County Department Directory

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Matt Patzner Finance Officer/Human Resource Director 1400 Main, Room 107, Great Bend 620-793-1800, 620-793-1807 fax Duties include: In-house fiscal responsibilities, investments, payroll and some community development.

Phillip Hathcock County Administrator 1400 Main, Room 107, Great Bend 620-793-1800, 620-793-1807 fax 620-786-9485 Cell Duties include: The Administrator is responsible for managing the resources and personnel of Barton County.

Operations generally involves budget management, staff supervision, fleet and asset control and other duties as assigned by the Board of Barton County Commissioners.

Wendy Prosser County Appraiser 1400 Main, Room 206, Great Bend 620-793-1821, 620-793-1820 fax Duties include: This office has the responsibility to discover, list, appraise and maintain records of data relating to all taxable and exempt real and personal property within the county.

Judy Goreham Environmental Management/Zoning 1910 18th St., Great Bend 620-796-4300, 620-792-9905 cell 620-796-2282 fax Duties include: Enforces the Barton County Environmental & Sanitary Code.

Permitting includes water wells, septic systems, licensing of wastewater contractors, water testing, property transfer inspections and environmental assistance.

It also enforces the Barton County Zoning Regulations, the Barton County Nuisance Code and licenses fireworks stands that are in unincorporated areas of the county. It also handles most of the Floodplain Regulations compliance for the unincorporated areas.

Dena Popp Communications / 911 Director 1300 Stone, Great Bend 620-793-1920 Duties include: Provides emergency dispatching services for Barton County Sheriff, police departments of Claflin, Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington, Kansas Highway Patrol, and all fire departments and emergency medical services in the county.

Darren Williams Road and Bridge/Noxious Weeds/ Memorial Parks & Cemeteries Road and Bridge: 2401 7th St., P.O. Box 518, Great Bend 620-793-1816 Noxious Weeds: 2300 6th St., P.O. Box 518, Great Bend 620-793-1936, 620-793-1938 fax Memorial Parks & Cemeteries: 1400 Main, Rm. 205, Great Bend 620-793-1816

Dereck Hollingshead Information Technology 1400 Main, Rm 201, Great Bend 620-793-1841, 620-793-1990 fax Provides technical support to all county offices.

Pam Christendon Facilities Management 1400 Main, Rm 109, Great Bend 620-793-1873, 620-793-1807 fax Karen Winkelman Health Director 1300 Kansas, Suite B, Great Bend 620-793-1902, 620-793-1903 fax Marissa Woodmansee Juvenile Intake and Assessment Services (JIAS) 1213 Baker Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1930, 620-793-1977 fax Amy Boxberger Central Kansas Community Corrections 1806 12th St., Great Bend 620-793-1940, 620-793-1893 fax Amy Miller, KCEM Barton County Emergency Management and Risk Management 1400 Main Room 108, Great Bend 620-793-1919, 620-786-4450 cell 620-793-1983 fax Services Provided: This department provides emergency preparedness functions to prevent, minimize, and repair injury and damage resulting from disasters. Provides public education and information to encourage personal emergency management. In addition, risk management and safety functions for Barton County are handled by this department.

Barry McManaman, PE Barton County Engineering 1400 Main Room 108, Great Bend 620-793-1808 Services Provided: Plans, develops and maintains the county’s infrastructure to provide safe travel and enhance the life of Barton County citizens.

Coordinates related activities with cities, townships and other governmental units.

Phillip Hathcock Solid Waste Director Barton County Solid Waste Landfill 350 NE 30 Road, Great Bend Hours - Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

620-793-1898, 620-786-9485 cell 620-793-1899 fax Services Provided: Solid Waste Management, Environmental Compliance, Household Hazardous Waste Program.

• Household Hazardous Waste collections are scheduled the third Saturday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the landfill, AprilOctober (weather permitting). Check website for other locations, www.bartoncounty.org. By appointment, Monday through Friday. Citizens may contact the Barton County Landfill for more information, 620-793-1898.

• The program is open to all residents of Barton, Ellsworth, and Pawnee counties and it is free of charge. Hazardous waste from commercial businesses is not allowed.

• What is allowed includes: Herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, any gardening chemical, household cleaners, automotive cleaners or fluids, all paint related products, and batteries. The facility does not accept agricultural pesticides over 2.5 gallons or 10 pounds total volume per customer. Check website for complete list and requirements.

There is also a giveaway program of these items, call for information.

It’s the Law

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Great Bend Tribune’s G

BARTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1400 Main, Great Bend County Attorney M. Levi Morris 620-793-1851 Clerk Donna Zimmerman 620-793-1835 Treasurer James Jordan 620-793-1831 Appraiser Wendy Prosser, RMA 620-793-1821 Register of Deeds Pam Wornkey 620-793-1849 20th JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT The 20th Judicial District consists of the following counties: Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford.

District Court Clerk Martha Rivas 620-793-1856 Honorable Steve Johnson Chief Judge 1400 Main Great Bend 620-793-1863 Honorable Carey L. Hipp District Judge 210 North Kansas Ellsworth 785-472-8931 Honorable Lisa Beran, District Judge 1400 Main Great Bend 620-793-1863

Honorable Timarie Walters District Magistrate PO Box 365 St. John 620-549-3295 Honorable District Magistrate Russell Awaiting new appointment Honorable Richard Burgess District Magistrate 101 W. Commercial St Lyons 620-257-2384 Honorable Peggy Svaty District Magistrate 210 N. Kansas Ellsworth 785-472-3832 20th JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT SERVICES (Probation services) 1806 12th, Great Bend 620-793-1887 CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS 1806 12th, Great Bend 620-793-1940 JUVENILE INTAKE 1213 Baker, Great Bend 620-793-1930

S GALORE IT IB H X E ION FREE ADMISIZSES - DEMONSTRATIONS DOOR PR Tuesday September 28, 2021 Great Bend Events Center 3:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. oin your gal pals at the Women’s Expo. This event has become a highly anticipated September tradition for women throughout the area.

Get your tickets at the Great Bend Tribune office, 2012 Forest or online at www.gbtribune.com As part of this annual event, donations and non-perishable food or pantry items will be collected at the door to benefit the Barton County Food Bank.

The Great Bend Tribune’s Women’s Expo is a chance for you to see what’s in and new in the worlds of fashion and beauty, health and fitness, personal and work life.

Check out exhibits, demonstrations, services and wares from area businesses as well as door prizes and give-aways provided by vendors and so much more!

Don’t forget to register for tons of prizes.

Sponsored by the Great Bend Tribune. For more info and photos visit our womens expo page at: www.gbtribune.com/womensexpo

State and National Government

STATE EXECUTIVE BRANCH

NATIONAL

Governor Laura Kelly State Capitol 300 SW 10th Ave., St. 241S Topeka, KS 66612-1590 Phone: 785-296-3232 Toll Free: 877-579-6757 https://governor.kansas.gov

Lt. Governor David Toland State Capitol 300 SW 10th Ave. Topeka, KS 66612-1590 Phone: 785-368-8500

Secretary of State Scott Schwab Memorial Hall 120 SW 10th Ave. Topeka, KS 66612-1594 Phone: 785-296-4564 kssos@ks.gov

State Treasurer Lynn Rogers 900 SW Jackson, Ste. 201 Topeka, KS 66612-1235 Phone: 785-296-3171 Unclaimed Property: 785-296-4165 https://www.kansasstatetreasurer.com

Attorney General Derek Schmidt 120 SW 10th, 2nd Floor Topeka, KS 66612-1597 Phone: 785-296-2215 https://ag.ks.gov

Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt 1300 SW Arrowhead Road Topeka, KS 66604-4073 Phone: 785-296-3071 Consumer Assistance Hotline 1-800-432-2484 (KS only) kid.commissioner@ks.gov Securities email: ksc.ksc@ks.gov

District 33 Senator Alicia Straub, Republican Capitol Room: 237-E Seat: 4 Phone: 785-296-7682 Email: Alicia.Straub@senate.ks.gov Home: 401 S. Kennedy, Ellinwood, KS 67526 Phone: 620-564-2196 Email: straubforkansas@gmail.com

STATE SENATOR

HOUSE LEGISLATORS

District 112 Representative Tory Arnberger, Republican Capitol Room: 512-N Phone: 785-296-7363 Email: ToryMarie.Arnberger@house.ks.gov Home: P.O. Box 103, Great Bend, KS 67530 Phone: 620-603-8967 Email: tmarnberger@gmail.com

District 113 Brett Fairchild, Republican Capitol Room: 167-W Phone: 785-296-7667 Email: brett.fairchild@house.ks.gov Home: 150 NW 40th St. St. John, KS 67576 Phone: 620-546-4510 Email: Fairchild_2@hotmail.com

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District 109 Troy Waymaster, Republican Capitol Room: 111-N Phone: 785-296-7672 Email: troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov Home: 3528 192nd Street, Bunker Hill, KS 67626 Phone: 785-483-2822 Email: twaymaster@aol.com

www.kansas.gov

President Joseph R. Biden Democrat The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 White House Comments: Phone: 202-456-1111 Switchboard: 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461 www.whitehouse.gov/president U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Republican Dirksen Senate Office Building Room 521 Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-6521 Fax: 202-228-6966 www.moran.senate.gov Committee on Appropriations; Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Committee on Indian Affairs; Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (Ranking) U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Republican Russell Senate Office Building Ste. B33 Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-4774 www.marshall.senate.gov Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; Committee on Energy and Natural Resources; Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann Republican, 1st District 522 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-225-2715 www.mann.house.gov Committee on Agriculture; Committee on Veterans Affairs Caucuses: 4-H Caucus; Agriculture Research Caucus; Air Force Caucus; Biofuels Caucus; Career and Technical Education Caucus; Crop Insurance Caucus; Fertilizer Caucus; Hunger Caucus; Israel Allies Caucus; Oil and Gas Caucus; Prayer Caucus; Rural Caucus; Second Amendment Caucus; Service Organization Caucus; Values Action Team; Western Caucus; Army Caucus; Beef Caucus; Bipartisan Congressional Transparency Caucus

NE 150 AVE

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R 11 W

NE 130 AVE

NE 120 AVE

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NE 100 AVE

NE 90 AVE

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R 12 W

NE 70 AVE

NE 60 AVE

NE 50 AVE

NE 40 AVE

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R 13 W

Susank Rd

NW 10 AVE

NW 20 AVE

NW 30 AVE

N US 281 HWY

R 14 W

NW 50 AVE

NW 60 AVE

NW 70 AVE

NW 80 AVE

NW 90 AVE

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R 15 W

NW 110 AVE

NW 230 RD

NW 120 AVE

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NW 140 AVE

BARTON COUNTY KANSAS TOWNSHIP MAP NE 230 RD

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NW 180 RD NW 170 RD

T 16 S

NE 190 RD

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Hitschmann

NE 180 RD NE 170 RD

281

NW 160 RD

NE 160 RD

NW 150 RD

NE 150 RD

NW 140 RD

T 17 S

Odin

NE 140 RD

T 17 S

NW 130 RD

NE 130 RD 28

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NW 110 RD 6

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Hoisington

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Redwing

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Claflin 34

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NE 120 RD 35

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E K 4 HWY

Overlook

Boyd

NW 105 RD

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NW 80 RD NW 70 RD 96

Albert

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airport Great Bend Airport

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SE 20 RD

SE 40 RD

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T 20 S

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R 12 W

SE 60 AVE

SE 50 AVE

SE 40 AVE

SE 30 AVE

SE 20 AVE

S US 281 HWY

US 56 HWY

SE 60 RD

34

R 13 W

SW 20 AVE

SW 30 AVE

SW 50 AVE SW 45 AVE SW 40 AVE

R 14 W

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SE 30 RD

Navajo

SW 70 AVE SW 65 AVE SW 60 AVE

By

lS

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SW 80 AVE

E Barton County Rd

34

20

The contents of this map were developed for the use of various departments of Barton County. Property descriptions and other information as indicated on the map are unofficial and are not intended for conveyances. This map is not a legal survey. Barton County does not assume responsibility for any use of the map beyond the regulations or guidelines established for the county departments.

nic ce

NE 17 AVE

na

Ellinwood

33

Adams

SW 42 RD

96

Dartmouth 32

19

Mapping 1400 Main St Room 102 Great Bend, KS 67530 v: 620-793-1802 f: 620-793-1807 e: mapping@bartoncounty.org

Barton County Source

NE 5AVE

5 Morrison 4SE 16 RD 3

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36SE 5 RD 31

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SW 90 AVE

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SW 100 AVE

SW 110 AVE

SW 140 AVE

Pawnee 32 SW 6533RD Rock

R 15 W

31

SW 130 AVE US 5 6 HW Y SW 120 AVE

SW 60 RD

SW 112 AVE

SW 50 RD

SW 56 AVE

SW 30 RD

Shady 2 Grove SW 38 AVE

SW 20 RD

3 SW 52 AVE SW 51 AVE

6

32

31

T 19 S

NE 10 RD 25

SE 70 RD

911 addresses reflect the distance from the E/W & N/S dividing roads in 1/100's of a mile.

The E/W dividing road is Washington Ave-Susank Rd. The N/S dividing road is Barton County Rd. The even number addresses are on the east and north sides of the road and the odd numbers are on the west and south sides of the road. ex: 245 NE 30 Rd (BCCC) is almost 2.5 miles east of N Washington Ave on the south side.

SE 160 AVE

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SW 10 RD

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wa

y

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27NE 3 RD 26

SE 130 AVE

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Great29Bend28

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SE 120 AVE

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Meadow Acres

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NE 20 RD

SE 115 AVE

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SE 110 AVE

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Westward Ho!

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Kellam's Corner

SE 105 AVE

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NE 30 RD

SE 100 AVE

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NE 40 RD 12

SE 90 AVE

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156

BoMar

SE 70 AVE

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Wetlands & Wildlife Na tio

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NE 25 RD

SE 67 AVE

27

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16Richter 15

Bissell's Point BCCC Zarah Cliffs13 14

SE 56 AVE

28

23

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Comanche Rd

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Walnut Creek

SE 58 AVE

30

21

10

9

SE 35 AVE

W Barton County Rd

20

17

NW 25 RD

Cheyenne 3 Estates

SE 1 AVE

19

SW 26 AVE

T 19 S

NW 10 RD

90

NE 60 RD

NE 27 AVE

NW 20 RD

SW 6 AVE

16

8 Woodside All Seasons

SW 10 AVE

17

34

4

N Washington Ave

NW 30 RD 18

28133 NW 3 AVE

Gentle Acres 5

NW 48 RD

NW 40 RD

SW 70 RD

T 18 S

O

32

NW 50 RD

T 20 S

NE 80 RD NE 70 RD

Barton Hills28

S Washington Ave

T 18 S

N 0

1 mile

2 miles

printed 3/13/12

Township Officials

ALBION Clerk—Rocky Meitner, 620-653-7596 or 620-282-8633,1280 NW 60 Ave. Olmitz, KS 67564 Treasurer—Sarah Younger, 620-617-3021 773 NW 160 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564 Trustee—Raymond V. Christians 620-653-7684, 532 NW 160 Rd. Hoisington, Kansas 67544 BEAVER Clerk—Scott Schlochtermeier, 620-639-6595 856 NE 210 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Terry R. Miller, 620-786-5385 573 1st Ave., Beaver, KS 67525 Trustee—Jennifer Steinert, 620-791-8755 1922 Main, Beaver, KS 67525 BUFFALO Clerk—Gerald Holthaus, 620-793-6894 496 NW 50 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530 Treasurer—Russell Carson, 620-793-7453 441 NW 70 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530 Trustee—Herbert L. Phillips, 620-797-1639 578 NW 40 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 CHEYENNE Clerk—John Lamatsch, 620-587-9977 1396 Lewis–Odin, Claflin, KS 67525 Treasurer—Francis J. Debes, 620-587-3668 or 620-786-4501, 749 NE 130 Rd. Claflin, KS 67525 Trustee—John Klug, 620-587-3952 908 St. Stephan Ave., Claflin, KS 67525 CLARENCE Clerk—Dennis Comer, 620-923-4688 172 NW 140 Ave., Albert, KS 67511 Treasurer—LaVerne Oetken, 620-793-6905 1116 NW 10 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 Trustee—David LeRoy, 620-793-7153 or 620-791-7193, 955 NW 20 Rd. Great Bend, KS 67530 CLEVELAND Clerk—Brian Hoffman, 620-587-2348 or 620-562-7619, 1938 NE 100 Ave. Claflin, KS 67525 Treasurer—Kevin Wirth 620-587-3687 or 620-791-7874 2150 NE 110 Ave., Claflin, KS 67525 Trustee—Greg Lamatsch, 620-587-3856 1080 NE 190 Rd., Claflin, KS 67525 COMANCHE Clerk—Linda Borror, 620-564-2484 1043 SE 20 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526 Treasurer—Barry Borror, 620-566-3187 1043 SE 20 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526 Trustee—Kenneth Spangenberg 620-786-4230, 573 SE 80 Ave. Ellinwood, KS 67526 EUREKA Clerk—Michael McCurry, 620-791-8622 232 NW 100 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Luke Keener, 620-617-4667 850 NW 50 Ave., Olmitz, KS 67564 Trustee—Gary A. Tindall, 620-653-4688 or 786-0911, 995 NW 40 Ave. Hoisington, KS 67544

91

FAIRVIEW Clerk—Deric Funk, 785-445-2958 2093 NW 90 Rd., Russell, KS 67665 Treasurer—Dennis N. Steinert 620-935-4333 or 620-923-5489 2257 NW 80 Ave., Russell, KS 67665 Trustee—David W. Keil, 785-445-5175 1007 NW 220 Rd., Russell, KS 67665

PAWNEE ROCK Clerk—Roy Prescott, 620-639-2690 1183 SW 30 Rd., Pawnee Rock, KS 67567 Treasurer—Scott Loving, 620-982-4393 1049 W. Hwy. 56, Pawnee Rock, KS 67567 Trustee—Dale D. Dirks, 620-982-4663 or 620-786-0677, 1235 SW 10 Rd., Pawnee Rock, KS 67567

GRANT Clerk—Mark Stos, 620-786-7017 1333 NW 150 Rd., Otis, KS 67565 Treasurer—Daphyna Epperson 620-617-0014, 1249 NW 150 Rd. Otis, KS 67565 Trustee—Joe F. Axman, 620-586-3274 898 NW 140 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564

SOUTH BEND Clerk—Darren Nicolet, 620-786-8829 59 SW 20 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 Treasurer—Marilyn J. Selle, 620-617-4987 198 SE 30 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 Trustee—Craig A. Amerine, 620-793-9705 or 620-793-0206, 325 SE 40 Ave. Great Bend, KS 67530

GREAT BEND Clerk—R.L. Engle, 620-793-7767 1314 College View Dr. Great Bend, KS 67530 Treasurer—Mike Snyder, 620-793-7043 48 NW 48 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 Trustee—Denis Bachand, 620-792-1932 304 NE 30 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530

SOUTH HOMESTEAD Clerk—Brandon Yeakley, 620-653-4035 846 NW 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Scott Heier, 620-617-7307 761 NW 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544 Trustee—Wayne Reif, 620-653-2022 171 NW 80 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544

INDEPENDENT Clerk—Ryan Oeser, 620-282-3449 109 B St., P.O. Box 184, Claflin, KS 67525 Treasurer—James J. Debes, 620-786-1342 310 E. Hamilton, P.O. Box 45 Claflin, KS 67525 Trustee—Randy Oeser, 620-588-2362 or 620-617-7967, 101 6th, Claflin, KS 67525 LAKIN Clerk—Aaron Birzer, 620-564-2130 or 620-786-1555, 1146 NE 20 Rd. Ellinwood, KS 67526 Treasurer—Corey Robl, 620-786-6810 996 NE 10 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526 Trustee—Mark Knop, 410 E. 6th St. Ellinwood, KS 67526 LIBERTY Clerk—T.R. Esfeld, 620-793-3643 314 SW 50 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530 Treasurer—Brad Kershner, 620-792-6222 673 SW 20 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530 Trustee—N/A LOGAN Clerk—Joseph V. Zink, 620-562-8417 850 NE 150 Ave., Claflin, KS 67525 Treasurer—Joy Hertach, 620-587-3450 or 719-306-4606, 947 NE 160 Ave. Claflin, KS 67525 Trustee—David P. Wirth, 620-587-3795 or 786-0589/786-1361, 673 NE 150 Ave. Ellinwood, KS 67526 NORTH HOMESTEAD Clerk—Richard W. Lacey, 620-653-4929 2 NW 120 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Angi Beck, 785-650-7649 1219 NE 40 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544 Trustee—Shawn D. Jonas, 620-653-2935 56 NE 150 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544

UNION Clerk—Justin Ludwig, 620-617-8267 or 620-617-8267, 197 NE 220 Rd. Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Brittany Woydziak, 661-916-3724 1826 NE 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544 Trustee—Rob Goreham, 620-786-0846 1705 NE 20 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544 WALNUT Clerk—Dale Kuhlman, 620-793-4537 or 620-923-7542, 966 NW 70 Rd. Olmitz KS 67564 Treasurer—Dale E. Maneth, 620-587-3326 or 785-532-8971, 1171 NW 110 Rd. Olmitz, KS 67564 Trustee—Steve Schneider, 620-586-3280 or 620-923-5432, 897 NW 120 Ave. Olmitz, KS 67564 WHEATLAND Clerk—Tim Maier, 620-793-6892 525 NW 190 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544 Treasurer—Garry Batt, 620-935-4390 or 785-483-1109, 2269 NW 30 Ave. Russell, KS 67665 Trustee—Kevin Nettleingham, 620-653-7695 749 NW 180 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564

Township officials are elected by residents of their township.

Elections are held during regular county-wide elections.

Clerks: Term 2019-2023 Treasurer: Term 2021-2025 Trustee: Term 2021-2025

BARTON COUNTY

92

of

SUSANK GALATIA

A

CITY COUNCIL Mayor – Rod Cushenbery Councilman – Stan Ewy Councilwoman – Joann George Councilwoman – Marty Hanhardt Councilman – Charles Keller Councilman – Robert Ritterhouse

open. When it does, it will be open 24/7 for self service. Fullservice hours will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10-11 a.m. Saturdays. It will be closed on Sundays and holidays.

Albert’s population dropped to 160 in the 2020 census – down from 175 in 2010 and 181 in 2000 – but the community spirit is alive and well. The city got a new fire truck in April of 2021 – a Rosendauer Pumper purchased

OLMITZ

from Hays Fire and Rescue Sales and Service LLC. When the COVID-19 pandemic shut things down in 2020, the pancake feed became “Cruise Main for Pancakes,” with a drive-through only event in July on Main Street.

The raffle drawing that accompanied this event was conducted over Facebook. The annual Albert Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Feed and Raffle returned to a spring event in 2021.

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

The Albert Volunteer Fire Department, along with the Ellinwood Fire Department, was ready to assist the Great Bend Fire Department on Feb. 14, 2021, when a fire broke out in an occupied home in Great Bend at 3:49 a.m. A resident was successfully located and removed as crews battled extreme cold; the temperature was -4 Fahrenheit with a wind chill of -14.

Street, 620-923-4665. The Albert Volunteer Fire Department then meets at 7 p.m. The City of Albert mailing address is P.O. Box 10, Main St.

Recycling Sunflower Diversified Recycling 5605 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-5800

Fire Department The Albert Volunteer Fire Department serves the city of Albert and several surrounding townships.

UTILITIES AND SERVICES

Medical Care The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus 514 Cleveland St., Great Bend 620-792-8833

Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society 620-792-4297

U.S. Post Office 2002 Main, 620-923-4699

Zip Code 67511

Natural Gas and Electricity Midwest Energy, 620-792-1301

City Clerk – Lois Ritterhouse The Albert city council meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at the city office, 2006 Main

ODIN CLAFLIN

ALBERT HOISINGTON

PAWNEE ROCK

lbert has a brand new post office, replacing the building on Main Street that closed in 2018 and was razed. Postmaster Travis Trendel, who is also the Great Bend Postmaster, said the former building could no longer be used due to mold, so the rural carrier from Rush Center delivered mail to a cluster box in town.

The building was completed

by June of 2021 but Trendel did not know when it would

BEAVER

Water and Sewer City of Albert, 620-923-4284 Don Dolechek, 620-923-4284

Park Pivonka Park on Main Street

93

Cityof

I

n 1918, the town of Beaver, the youngest in Barton County, was formed.

Two men, Clyde Forney and Calvin Piester, were instrumental in promoting the town. Piester played an important role as a town founder, having the town platted and becoming the sales agent for town lots at its start four years prior. Even prior to its founding, he and pal Forney recruited the Farmers State Bank of Redwing, a town a few miles south, to relocate there. Soon after, the Farmers National Bank and a small grocery store also came to town. Details of town life were documented by correspondents and appeared in the pages of the Hoisington Dispatch and the Great Bend Daily Tribune.

A correspondent for the Great Bend Daily Tribune offered a glimpse of the busy young town at harvest time in the July 3, 1919 edition. A number of families were already established in the area, though it was not specified if they lived in town or in the surrounding countryside.

There were the Feyerbends, the Stoskopfs, two groups of Charles, Jacobs, Lurmans, and Moos. Activity included a number of visits from friends and family from surrounding communities of Odin, Claflin, Heizer and from further away, including Ellis and even Grand Junction, Colorado.

Mr. C.L. Charles and his wife, Maggie, invited a crowd to their home for Sunday supper, and the home was hopping with the Stoskopf girls, Fern and Daisy, and other young friends of the Charles’ children.

“All reported a good time and a swell supply by the cook, C.L. Charles.”

Mishaps were also reported; “Raymond Charles had the misfortune of getting his foot cut in a binder Friday.”

Shopping trips to nearby Claflin were documented. There were also reports of fishing on the Smoky Hill River, and plenty of socializing happening between the families.

Beaver even raised a town band in the

short time it existed.

“Last Tuesday evening the Beaver Band gave a serenade at the T.H. Allen home.”

Building news included the near completion of the Wolf Elevator of Beaver, and news that the Farmers State Bank would be putting up a new bank building at Beaver.

In the February 5, 1921 edition of the Hoisington Dispatch, a notice for bids appeared. “Bids will be received until Feb. 14, 1920, for the construction of about 10,000 square feet of cement sidewalk and crossing to be built in Beaver, Kansas.

For plans and specifications, address J.G. Feyerbend, Beaver, Kansas.”

In the same edition, the report, “Beaver Is Hustling.”

“The beaver is one of the most industrious of animals and the citizens of Beaver, one of the new Barton County towns, evidently expect to live up to the name.”

Elsewhere in this issue they have a notice for bids for the construction of a large amount of concrete sidewalk of four and eight foot widths. The town is not incorporated so taxes cannot be levied against property for such purposes but they circulated petitions and secured the signatures of all property owners in the sidewalk district that each property owner will bear his proportionate share of the improvement.

Beaver’s growth years are long behind it now, true. But there are signs of life, including a grain elevator, Beaver Grain Corporation, and Miller Time, a bar and grill. A handful of residents still enjoy a quiet rural lifestyle as well.

Cityof

Claflin

BARTON COUNTY

94

SUSANK ODIN

GALATIA

CLAFLIN

BEAVER OLMITZ HOISINGTON

ALBERT

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

Claflin worth smiling about

T

he sign along K-156 advertising the Barton County community of Claflin reads “If you can’t stop, smile as you go by.”

There are plenty of reasons to do just that.

Travel along Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway and it won’t be long before you find Claflin, where the famed Millers of Claflin furniture store is located. The store was a finalist of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce in 2010 during the year-long Kansas Sampler Foundation’s 8 Wonders of Kansas promotion. The buildings, owned

by Millers, have been painted to look like a scenic old-time western townscape from a Hollywood movie set, and set the tone for the rest of Main Street. Recently, local business owners have leased space and opened offices, a beauty salon, and most recently a restaurant and bar, to serve the population of 648.

The Claflin town company was formed in 1887, and with the first established business being a lumber yard, Claflin began to build and grow. A year later saw the start of a local newspaper and two schools,

both a public and a Catholic school. The town incorporated in 1901, with H.E. Hill as its first elected mayor. Schools have always been important to the people of Claflin and the surrounding area.

Four communities make up USD 112 Central Plains. Claflin, nearby Holyrood and Bushton, and further north, the city of Wilson. Each town retains a school, with elementary students attending classes in Holyrood, middle schoolers at Bushton, and high school students at Claflin. Wilson students attend K-12 in Wilson. Every other year, the Claflin All-School reunion is held, and it is a cause for celebration that lasts the entire weekend.

The Claflin Area Pride organization also organizes other community events, including the city-wide garage sale in the spring, and the Claflin Christmas Market, the annual Christmas tree lighting and an Easter egg hunt. For the past two years, CAP has been raising money to purchase and erect welcome signs at the east and west entrances of the city limits.

Health and heritage are also important to the people of Claflin.

City Council Mayor – Michael Urban Councilman – Dusty Daniels Councilman – Casey Hubbard Councilman – Robert Gunder Councilman – Doug Hubbard Councilman – Dan Michaelis

City Departments City Clerk – Patricia Schmidt 620-587-3707 City Attorney – Robert Suelter 620-793-4114 Superintendent of Utilities – Richard Hayes - 620-588-3723 Police Chief – Gregg Vannoster 620-587-3344 Fire Chief – Doug Hubbard 620-587-3498

City Council members meet at 7:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the City Hall, 111 E. Hamilton. Council members can be contacted through the City Hall office, Medical Care Clara Barton Hospital 620-587-3707.

205 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-2114

That is why they have transformed the old school buildings at 400 Main Street into the Claflin Community and Wellness Center, complete with gym equipment and 24-hour card access. New residents can stop by the City Hall and ask for details.

The old school is also home to Claflin’s History Museum, thanksin large part to the efforts of the Miller Family. The museum contains artifacts dating back to the founding of the town. A phone number posted provides contact information for those wishing to visit the self-guided museum, and it remains open for special celebrations happening in town around the holidays and for class reunions.

The Miller Family helped spur the creation of this museum after the previous building that housed the museum was condemned and the artifacts put into storage. Donations raised by the community have made it possible to supply a handicapped stair lift for visitors that have difficulty managing stairs. It is located at the south entrance of the building. Surrounding the school, there is an interactive fun-walk UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Midwest Energy, 800-222-3121 Natural Gas Kansas Gas Service, 800-794-4780 Animal Control Claflin Police Department 620-587-3344 Recycling Drop off located at City Shop 710 W. Front U.S. Post Office 218 Main Street, 620-587-3935

for parents and young children, to encourage exercise, reading, and bonding time.

Seniors in Claflin meet the third Wednesday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Claflin Community Center for a birthday coffee and program. On the second Tuesday of the month, they play bingo at the Claflin Community Center from 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

Not far west from Claflin, and also along the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway is an overlook of the Cheyenne Bottoms State Wildlife Area. In 2017, a new handicapped accessible pavilion replaced the older structure.

For a brief period from 1945 to 1946, the Cheyenne Bottoms basin was used as a bombing and artillery range by the US Army Air Corps. In 1957, it became a dedicated waterfowl management area by the Kansas State Parks and Wildlife. In 1988, it was designated a “Wetland of International Importance.” During dry years, there may be no standing water, but in wet years, one or two feet of water may cover the Bottoms area.

Library Librarian, Pam Atteberry 620-587-3488 Independent Township Library 108 Main St. Hours: Monday: 3:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Thursday: 1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - noon Closed Wednesday and Sunday Zip Code 67525

Cityof

Ellinwood

BARTON COUNTY

95

SUSANK GALATIA

BEAVER

ODIN CLAFLIN

OLMITZ ALBERT HOISINGTON

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND

ELLINWOOD

For more than a nwood has century, Ellin d in style celebrated

E

llinwood has two seasonal events each year, and each one is well worth attending.

The first Sunday in December, is a German-inspired event called Christkindlmarket, and the third weekend in July is the three-day After Harvest Festival.

Every year, the Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce hosts the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival. It draws people from all the surrounding counties. Typically, the three-day weekend starts off with a community pancake feed, then it’s games, competitions, and vendors for all ages at the City Park, Wolf Park, and Wolf Pond. Hamburger feeds, beer gardens, bands, community dances, and a ton of other entertainment ensure there isn’t an idle moment. There’s the Ellinwood Rotary parade, an AHF golf tournament, petting zoo and all weekend long, a carnival set up on the west side of City Park. Held the third weekend of July every year, it’s a celebration not to be missed.

The community of Ellinwood knew how to throw a great party years before the After Harvest Festival started.

As a young city, it attracted people from hours away to the Eagles Picnic the first weekend in September. Here, the 1910 account, as reported in the Sept. 6, 1910 edition of the Great Bend Daily Tribune: “The annual picnic is held in the John Wolf grove, west side of town, and there is a big enough place to entertain everyone. A number of concessions of various sorts were scattered through the grounds, there were refreshment stands which did a large business and in addition music by the band and a big ball game with some minor sports furnished amusement for the crowd. It was an absolutely clean picnic and we saw no drinking or evidence of drinking anywhere. It might be well to interpolate at this point that several of the Ellinwood merchants in talking over the old days, when refreshments “made in Germany” were the order of the day at such affairs, said they would rather have things the way they are now, with the lid clamped on tight than to have saloons over which the community had practically no control.

Saloons managed properly by the municipality, they did not

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consider them bad. But now that the law is being observed they expect to keep things the way they are.

Ellinwood is one of the prettiest little towns in the state and one of the best managed communities as well. The enterprise of the merchants who have stores as upto-date as those of much larger towns, and their way of standing together in making an affair of this kind a success were especially noticeable. Men like Edward Isern, Nick Sprinkler, Henry Back, John and Fred Wolf, Geo Heim, Geo Trump, John Thul, Harry Turck, J. C. McCracken, Howard Torrence and other businessmen of the town were out welcoming the visitors and making them feel welcome.”

Candidates handed out cards, shook hands, and talked. A ball game between Sterling and Ellinwood was held.

“The celebration ended at night with a big ball game which is an annual event.

Besides the young people of Ellinwood and vicinity there were a number from here, Sterling and other points present.”

Great Bend, the county seat, had many among the visitors. The prior day, the society column was filled with notices of society people who were traveling to Ellinwood for the picnic. Great Bend was

CITY COUNCIL

Water/Wastewater Superintendent Spencer Proffitt 620-564-3046 Police Chief – Chance Bailey 620-564-3001 Fire Chief – Chris Komarek 620-564-3161

Mayor, Irlan Fullbright Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember

– – – – – –

certainly a quiet place that weekend, with so much attention focused on their neighbor to the east.

John Wolf, of whom the grove was

Kirk Clawson Ken Lebbin Steve Oelke Jacque Isern Jon Prescott Irlan Fullbright

The Ellinwood city council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at 104 East 2nd St. CITY DEPARTMENTS City Administrator – Chris Komarek 620-564-3161 City Clerk – Kim Schartz 620-564-3161 Electrical Superintendent – Jon Perron 620-564-3046 Street Dept. Superintendent – Kevin Clair 620-564-3451

named after, immigrated from Germany in the late 1800’s. He married, and together with his wife Mary, they started a brewery called the M.K. Brewery near the shore of the Arkansas River. The grove surrounded the brewery, and today Grove Park, Ellinwood’s 9-hole golf course is situated on that property. John and Mary’s son, Fred Wolf, created the golf course in 1931 for his son, Fred Wolf Jr. In 1939, the clubhouse was built. Wolf Pond is still located adjacent to the golf course, and is much smaller today than it was a century ago when two windmills were used to fill it and ice was cut for the brewery’s use and to sell to the public.

“One thing of interest to the citizens about Ellinwood is the excellent light and water system, which is owned by the town.

In most municipalities such a plan proves to be burdensome to the taxpayers and more costly to the users than the privately owned plant, but in Ellinwood they claim to be saving money. And they do give good service.”

Today, Ellinwood continues to operate its own back-up electrical service, and has saved the community numerous times from long lasting power outages when storms ensue.

Natural Gas Kansas Gas Service, 800-794-4780 U.S. Post Office 299 N. Main, 620-564-2840

Medical Care Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic 605 N. Main, 620-564-2548

Library Director, Sheri Holmes 620-564-2306 Ellinwood School Community Library 210 N. Schiller

Animal Control Police Department 209 W. 1st, 620-564-3001

Recycling Recycling Center 203 West 1st. – Open 24 hours

UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Light & Power Plant Jon Perron, Electric, 620-564-3451 Jim McMullen, Power Plant 620-564-2211

Compost Site Park and 7th – Open daily 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Zip Code 67526

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Galatia of

BARTON COUNTY

97

SUSANK ODIN

GALATIA BEAVER

CLAFLIN

OLMITZ ALBERT HOISINGTON

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

Tiny community made many pushe es, and was finally successful

G

alatia is the furthest Barton County community to the northwest. Located at the intersection of NW 100 Ave. and NW 190 Rd (Railroad Ave.), it is home to St. Paul Lutheran Church ELCA, a small elevator, several small homes, and a cemetery at the northernmost end of the five-block long Main Street.

Sparsely populated, the quiet town grows in size each Sunday when members of the church make the scenic drive for weekly services. Some can remember when it was a thriving community with a handful of businesses, two churches and its own school.

Thirty years after its founding, the city hadn’t grown much, and the reason had a lot to do with railroads. A Dec. 27, 1916 report in the Great Bend Daily Tribune tells the story. The community was originally started “on the promise of becoming one of the main towns on the new line,” but for (more than) 20 years it had been without a road,” referring to a railroad. Several attempts to pass bonds, only to be shot down, would have discouraged most, but not the people of Galatia.

“The Galatia people have never given up CITY COUNCIL Mayor - Kevin Polzin Councilman — Robert Kolas Councilman — Michael Guertin Councilman — Josh Keil Councilman — Susan Funk Councilman — Dennis Funk Council members meet at 7:30 p.m.

(8:00 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time) on the first Tuesday of each month at 150 W. Floyd

hope of getting a road and there is every indication now that two roads to Galatia will be built.”

H.W. Neiswanger, a Galatia businessman, proposed to build one from Holyrood (west) to Galatia. This got the attention of the Santa Fe Railroad, and over the next couple of years, a deal was struck and the line was built, connecting the town to Holyrood more than 40 miles to the east. It was completed in the fall of 1918, and in the October 10, 1918 Tribune, the report “Galatia waited 25 years for railroad; Central Kansas is helping the town celebrate now,” had this to say: “Central Kansas is helping Galatia celebrate the realization of hopes and efforts of 25 years to get a railroad.

“The first shipments were several car loads of wheat, shipped out with a construction train. And this week - crowning week of the little town’s history – “real” train “specials” loaded with people from the neighboring counties are arriving to help Galatia celebrate.”

The following week, the Hoisington Dispatch recapped the event. “... Nelson’s Wild West show was there with the “missing link,” the snake charmer, the hypnotizer and all of the big attractions displayed on the big banners back of the bally-hoo stand. The Wolf Stock Company was there and gave afternoon and evening performances that were good and pleased the crowds. They had a band that made up in music what it lacked in numbers. Dances were given in the opera house.

“Taken as a whole the celebration was a big success and those who...put up their money to get attractions deserve much credit...Quite a number of new buildings have been erected in Galatia since the new road became a certainty and the town is sowing the effects of its prosperity and will show it much more when the war is over and business again becomes normal.”

Council members can be reached by calling the Mayor Kevin Polzin 760-947-1355

Natural Gas/Propane Mid-State Co-op 785-373-4239

Trash Service Shamrock Sanitation 620-792-1639

CITY CLERK Diane Deines

U.S. Post Office 800-275-8777 Rural route from Otis, 100 N. Main

Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society 620-792-4297

Medical Care Clara Barton Hospital 250 W. Ninth, 620-653-2114

Zip Code 67565

UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Western Cooperative Electric 1-800-456-6720

Cityof

BARTON COUNTY

98

GALATIA

OLMITZ ALBERT

SUSANK BEAVER

ODIN CLAFLIN

HOISINGTON

GREAT BEND

PAWNEE ROCK

ELLINWOOD

T

here is a new energy in historic Great Bend, from efforts to revitalize the downtown to promoting local businesses to improving its popular parks. At the crossroads of both Kansas and the nation as a whole, it has much to offer residents and visitors alike in terms of commerce, dining and recreation.

For the family and visitors, there are many parks and recreational areas, featuring activities from playgrounds to bicycle and walking trails to disc golf to fishing. There is also the Great Bend Sports Complex with baseball and softball fields that are the envy of many communities.

The city sponsors numerous communitywide events as well such as June Jaunt and Party in the Park.

Furthermore, in keeping with a longrunning City Council goal, in recent years, several new housing options have been built.

These endeavors are just the most recent

evolution of the Great Bend landscape. The historic community dates back well over 100 years.

The town was named after the great bend of the Arkansas River, a feature noted as early as the first days of the Santa Fe Trail, which played an important role in the new community’s development. A trading post was established and later a small military post, Fort Zarah. After the Civil War the land began to be developed by easterners, and by the early 1870s a town had formed.

With a population of only 600, Great Bend was founded in 1872. It was named the temporary county seat in May of that year.

The next year Great Bend was made Barton County’s permanent county seat.

Great Bend started life as a cowtown, complete with shootouts, Texas cowboys

and saloons. Although this only lasted a few years, Great Bend’s rowdy cowtown reputation inspired a 2013 Hulu web series called “Quick Draw.”

After this, Great Bend grew into a regional trade and service center, a role that grew stronger during the growth of the oil industry and, later when it served as a major World War II Army Air Corps training base, a base that evolved into the Great Bend Municipal Airport.

Since then, the community has continued to develop as a medical, legal and technical service center, as well as a regional shopping and entertainment provider. The town’s assets include a central geographic location, abundant natural resources, a safe and healthful climate, hardworking people and a relaxed atmosphere.

Adventurer and JanSport founder Skip Yowell was from Great Bend, as was Jack Kilby, one of the inventors of the microchip and 2000 Nobel Prize winner.

Agriculture plays a large role in the Great Bend region. Wheat, corn, milo, soybeans and sunflowers are a few of the crops grown here. Cattle, hogs, and chickens are raised and several large commercial feedlots can be found in the area.

The oil industry also plays an important role in the community. In 2019 the Kansas Geological Survey estimated

CITY COUNCIL Mayor – Cody Schmidt term ends in 2021 First Ward Lindsey Krom-Craven – 620-639-6777 term ends in 2020 Alan Moeder – 620-793-9052 term ends in 2021 Second Ward Kevyn Soupiset – ksoupiset@ greatbendks.net term ends in 2022 Jolene Biggs – 620-793-3443 term ends in 2021 Third Ward Cory Urban – 785-760-4846 term ends in 2021 Davis Jimenez – 620-282-2475 term ends in 2022 Fourth Ward Junior Welsch – 620-793-5031 term ends in 2021 Brock McPherson – 620-793-9237 term ends in 2022

that Great Bend and Barton County produced 1,692,043 barrels of oil and 193,440 mcf (thousand cubic feet) of natural gas.

One barrel of oil is enough to drive the average car about 840 miles.

The transload facility in the city’s industrial park west of town brings more rail and truck traffic to the region.

Expanding grain handling operations east of town are bringing additional business.

With these businesses and certified commercial service airport access, Great Bend is now a national commerce hub,

with connections to global markets.

Also important are outdoor recreational activities.

Great Bend is located next to two of the world’s most important wetlands, Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Bird watchers flock to the area to observe the different varieties.

Sportsmen find the area appealing for pheasants, quail, goose, duck and deer hunting.

Great Bend’s population, according to the Bureau of Census is 14,972 and Barton County has a population of 25,779.

Council members meet at 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month in the City Council chambers at 1209 Williams.

All governing body members serve two-year terms. Council members can be reached through City Hall, 1209 Williams, 620-793-4111.

Code Enforcement Officer Austin LaViolette – 620-791-5010 Water Pollution Control (WPC) 620-793-4170 Police Chief Steven Haulmark – 620-793-4120 Fire Chief Luke McCormick – 620-793-4140

CITY DEPARTMENTS City Administrator Kendal Francis – 620-793-4111 City Attorney Robert Suelter – 620-793-4114 City Clerk Shawna Schafer – 620-793-4111 Public Lands Scott Keeler – 620-793-4111 Public Works Director 620-793-4150 Street Department James Giles – 620-793-4150 Utility Superintendent 620-793-4100 Building Inspector Logan Burns – 620-793-4106

UTILITIES AND SERVICES Water & Sewer Utility Office 1615 10th St., 620-793-4100 Electricity Midwest Energy 1025 Patton Rd., 620-792-1301 Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc. 620-793-4223, 800-762-0436 Natural Gas Kansas Gas Service 800-794-4780 City Television Channel 20 City information and current events.

U.S. POST OFFICE 2100 16th St., 620-792-4381

ANIMAL CONTROL Golden Belt Humane Society 151 U.S. 281, 620-792-4297 Recycling Sunflower Diversified Recycling 5605 10th St., 620-793-5800 Rosewood Services ECycle center, 2200 Main, 620603-8348 COMPOST SITE 1/2 mile south of Railroad Ave. on SW 5 Ave., 620-793-4150 Open 24 hours, 7 days a week MEDICAL CARE The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus 514 Cleveland St., 620-792-8833 The University of Kansas Health System St. Rose Pavilion 3515 Broadway Ave., 620-792-2511

Barton County Source

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Drag Strip 9951 B29 Way

SW 50 Ave

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SHAWNEE

19TH ST.

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FOREST AVE.

Great Bend Sports Complex

Great Bend Brit Spaugh Park & Zoo & Wetlands Water Park

To Barton Co. Historical Society & Museum & Grounds

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CORO

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MULBERRY

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96 156 56 PINE PL. MAPLE

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QUIVIRA

ALMOND

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NE 30 Rd Bissells Point, See Box and Barton Community College

2ND ST.

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Barton County Source EA

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BARTON COUNTY

101

GALATIA

OLMITZ ALBERT

PAWNEE ROCK

H

oisington is quickly becoming known as one of Barton County’s more progressive communities when it comes to recreation and healthy lifestyle.

In 2019 and 2020, many updates at Hoisington’s Bicentennial Park have been completed, including the installation of a new dog park, a new pickleball court, and disc golf course, all located on the north end of the park.

Work also started on a redesign of the city’s baseball complex, all in an effort to provide additional baseball and softball tournament options in the county. Work on the diamonds and access to make them safer for participants and spectators will take a few years to complete.

All work is put on hold during the summer ball season, allowing players to continue to practice and games to be held, even in 2020 amidst restrictions on mass gatherings due to COVID-19 concerns. A local metalworking design company, B&B Metal Arts, partnered with a local carpenter, Scott A. Christians Construction, L.L.C., to build bridges over a drainage swail in the park to separate the complex from parking on the southeast side of the park. Later in 2020, a new concessions building was built.

Also in 2020, with a grant secured by Clara Barton Hospital from Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways, the city partnered with the Rodeway Inn and with the Hoisington Public Library for a bike-share program, the first of its kind in Barton County. Soon, residents and visitors alike will be able to borrow a bicycle from either location to experience a ride in and around the city.

Hoisington is also known for its four-day long Labor Day festivities. In 2021, the Hoisington Labor Day Parade marks its 125th year.

Early success with the parade prompted the people of Hoisington to look for ways to make

more out of the weekend. The first Hoisington Labor Day picnic was held at the Shriwise Grove in Hoisington on Labor Day in 1911. That picnic has served as the inspiration for all that has come after.

John and Christina Shriwise, Hoisington farmers, agreed to host the first ever Labor Day picnic on Sept. 4, 1911, which was given by the Missouri Pacific Shop Federation in observance of the holiday.

According to the Aug. 31, 1911 Great Bend Daily Tribune, “There will be a big parade by the Federated Trades at 9:45 a.m. and speeches by prominent Barton county citizens.

SUSANK BEAVER

ODIN CLAFLIN

HOISINGTON GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

Music will be furnished by the Hoisington Military Band and the afternoon will be devoted to having a general good time.

On Tuesday, Sept. 5 the Tribune reported: “The Shriwise grove just north of Hoisington is an excellent place in that it has not been so used before. There are few better places in the county,” the correspondent stated. “There were scores of contests of an athletic nature and many of them extremely amusing which kept the crowd (estimated at nearly 2,500) well entertained.

In the evening preparations were made for a big balloon ascension and following that a grand ball in the skating rink.”

The Hoisington Dispatch provided a more detailed viewpoint: “The grove had been cleaned up and seats and water were provided for the picnickers. The races and contests were pulled off at the edge of the grove but on account of the large crowd present there were a good many who did not get to see all.”

Races included a 100 yard race, three-legged race, egg race, girls 25 yard race, fat man race, sack race, 50 yard dash for girls and a fat ladies race. Winners and 2nd and 3rd place each won cash prizes.

“Elza Baford climbed the greasy pole and took a $5 gold piece for his trouble,” the report stated. “Floyd Wingert fell on that greasy pig as if determined to get his winter’s meat. He got the pig which was donated by Howell & Son’s meat market.”

Men with automobiles were on hand to provide rides, and at only 10 cents per ride, few chose to walk. And while just about everything went off without a hitch, there’s always something that can go wrong.

“The balloon that was advertised for an evening attraction did not go up very high. The wind did not go down until late in the evening when the gas bag was inflated on the Degen lots, just south of Meyer & Sullivan’s store. While several thousand people were patiently waiting for it to take its trip skyward, it was released from its moorings and turned turtle, partially landing on the rear of Meyer and Sullivan’s store.

“Parts of two chimneys were knocked off and as the big gas bag settled it was torn for about 30 feet up one side. The aeronaut says it was released by someone

in the crowd yelling, “let ‘er go” before he was ready. In fact his parachute was not attached to the balloon when it was released.

The expenses of the balloon people were $21.75 and they were paid $17.50 for their attempted ascension.”

The ball at the skating rink, however, was a success with prizes awarded for best waltzers.

The Shriwise farm, including the grove, was located just outside the city at the northwest corner. Over the years, it has

been annexed into the city, and today includes all of the residences, churches, schools and businesses north of 9th Street, including Clara Barton Hospital.

John Shriwise received the land from his father, and in 1908, he married 20-year old Christina Schwindt, a Russian immigrant from Bison in neighboring Rush County. The happy couple farmed and were very active in the community. They never had children, but through their influence and involvement

We Invite You To Visit Hoisington!

with young people made an impact on many young people’s lives. At one point, Christina served on the hospital board.

After John died at age 50, Christina’s world grew to include travel, many friends, expanded business opportunities, and she eventually moved away from Hoisington for many years. She returned home in 1973 at age 88, after visiting friends and relatives for several months, and entered the hospital in Hoisington where she died Nov. 30 of that year, according to her obituary in the Dec. 10, 1973 Russell Record.

Hoisington is a 15 minute drive from Great Bend, heading north on Hwy 281. At the south entrance of the city, to the east of the railroad tracks is where the Missouri Pacific rail yard was once located. Modern businesses fill the buildings that once were signs of progress in Hoisington 100 years ago. Further still, arrive at Clara Barton Hospital where Main Street intersects 9th Street, either way you go from there, Hoisington’s community pride shines through as it has for over a century.

2021 Upcoming Events September ........ 125th Annual Labor Day Celebration November .............. Christmas Lighting D December ..... Visit With Santa 2022 Upcoming Events FFebruary ... Chamber Banquet JJune ..........Rock Into Summer S September ........ 126th Annual Labor Day Celebration

% J UI 8 UM %SJWF UIF 8FUMBOET 8JMEMJGF 4DFOJD #ZXBZ tour Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge and ESPQ CZ UIF ,BOTBT 8FUMBOET &EVDBUJPO $FOUFS Enjoy all of the amenities Hoisington has to offer.

For more information or schedule of events call Hoisington Chamber of Commerce 620-653-4311 or visit our website www.hoisingtonkansas.com. / .BJO t )PJTJOHUPO ,BOTBT

102

Barton County Source

CITY COUNCIL Mayor — Dalton Popp Ward 1 Councilman — Becky Steiner Councilman — Karen VanBrimmer Ward 2 Councilman — Carrol Nather Councilman — Darren Reinert Ward 3 Councilman — Jim Morris Councilman — Duane Reif Ward 4 Councilman — Christina Smith Councilman — Gary Shook Council members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at Hoisington City Hall, 109 E. 1st, 620-653-4125.

CITY DEPARTMENTS City Manager — Jonathan Mitchell, 620-653-4125 City Clerk — Celia Conrad, 620-653-4125 Public Works Director — Jonathan Mitchell, 620-653-4385 City Attorney — John Horner, 620-793-7874 Recreation Director — Chris Kinman, 620-653-4050 Police Chief — Kenton Doze, 620-653-4995 Fire Chief — Jerry Stricker, 620-653-7772 Emergency Medical Service Director — Megan Elmore, 620-653-4150 Medical Care Clara Barton Hospital, 250 W. Ninth, 620-653-2114

Library Hoisington Public Library, 169 S. Walnut 620-653-4128

Animal Control 620-653-4995 or 620-653-2333, Dolores Kipper City Television Channel 20 – City Information and Current Events

U.S. Post Office 119 E. Second, 620-653-2838 Recycling Parking lot West of Wilson State Bank UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Municipal Power Plant, 164 S. Elm, 620-653-4675 Natural Gas Kansas Gas Service, 800-794-4780

Burn Site/Compost Site 150 NE 100 Rd. Open daily 24 hours (limbs and grass) Available for Hoisington residents only Zip Code 67544

GA Consultants, Inc. Motor Carrier Safety Consultants

'.$4" t ,$$ tIFTA t IRP t CSA P.O. Box 8 Hoisington, KS 67544 Phone: 620-653-4099 Fax: 620-653-2469 info@gaconsultantsinc.com

Dr. Derrick Kaiser

is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who enjoys helping others get back to doing what they love.

Born and raised in Hoisington, KS, he is excited to give back to his hometown and the surrounding communities.

t / &MN 4U t )PJTJOHUPO ,4

117 N. MAIN STREET, HOISINGTON, KS 620-653-2147 OFFICE HOURS: MTWF: 9-12:30 & 2-5:30; THUR: 1-4:30 & 5:30-7 Barton County Source

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Odin O

ff the beaten path, about three miles north of K-4 between Hoisington and Claflin lies Odin, a small town whose history hearkens back to the pioneer days of western and central Kansas.

The town, founded in the 1870’s by German settlers, sits nestled at the crossroads of NE 90 Avenue and NE 140 Road.

Though progress is evident in Odin, the 140-year plus history of the settlement in the area is still rich in the air and in the town’s structures.

The Odin Store is where friends and family meet to watch a game, have a bite to eat, or pick up sandwiches and such to go. It’s a place for class reunions – several schools, some long gone and some still operating, once served the school-age population in the area, so the Odin Store is a fondly remembered meeting spot. Step into the store, and it becomes apparent people from near and far have found their way to the Odin Store where they left behind signatures and photos that fill the walls and ceiling.

Holy Family Catholic Church, the second church to be built in Odin, is a beacon on the prairies of northern Barton County. The first, according to the Dodge City Diocese, St. Mary’s, was built in 1878 by Father Hundhausin, a visiting priest from Ellinwood

who would make the trip once a month to serve the sacrament to followers there. That church burned down, and it was replaced in 1878 with a stone church, Holy Family. After the church was built, a school was built and finished in 1908.

Today, the church family is closely linked with the parishes of St. Joseph in Ellinwood and Immaculate Conception in Claflin. Fr. Terrance Klein, priest at St. Joseph and Holy Family, regularly invites the public to attend a monthly discussion, “Theology on Tap,” on the first Saturday of the month at the Underground Saloon inside

Ellinwood’s Historic Wolf Hotel.

Early Mass at Odin’s Holy Family is served on Sundays, and the cemetery behind the church is a beautiful place to reflect.

The town is also home to the Odin Rodeo Grounds/Prosser

Arena, which hosts multiple events each year. According to its website, it is an outdoor facility for rodeos, shows and practices, and is home to the annual Odin Rodeo, and other entertainment events.

BARTON COUNTY

105

of

SUSANK ODIN

GALATIA BEAVER

OLMITZ

CLAFLIN

HOISINGTON

ALBERT

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

O

lmitz, located in the far western center of Barton County, was laid out in 1885, by people whose descendants came from Austria-Hungary, which today is referred to as the Czech Republic. Referred to then as a “city on a hill,” it enjoyed a solid trade from nearby farms. Located on what was then the Missouri Pacific Railroad, it was visited often by a reporter from the Hoisington Dispatch.

Olmitz is most widely known for St. Ann’s Catholic Church, the steeple of which can be seen for miles atop the hill where the city is located. St. Ann’s congregation built a parochial school there in 1913. We found mention of it in the May 22, 1913 Hoisington Dispatch.

“The mason work of the new parochial school at Olmitz is nearing completion and in a short time we will see CITY COUNCIL Mayor – Curtis Peterson Councilman - Josh Tessendorf Councilwoman - Karla Hagans Councilwoman - Ashley Elsen Council Members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the Olmitz City Building, 219 Main Street.

Council members can be reached at 620-586-3311

it finished. After the school is finished work will begin immediately on the new Catholic church and after those two grand structures are erected those so-called “knockers” who have been busy trying to give Olmitz and the people around it a bad name, will have to “go way back and sit down.”

Once the church was completed, the congregation raised funds to purchase stained glass windows from CITY DEPARTMENTS City Clerk — Krisa Schneider Streets — Tom Schneider Treasurer — Krisa Schneider Sewer & Water — Tom Schneider City Attorney — Travis Terns Municipal Judge — Joel Jackson UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Western Cooperative Electric 800-456-6720

Europe, and for the 100 year anniversary, they were cleaned, repaired and professionally restored, and continue to provide beauty and inspiration to all who enter St. Ann’s.

From Great Bend, take K-96 west out of town about 17 miles, then turn right at the marker for Olmitz. The rest of the drive will take you through rolling countryside.

While today there are but a few buildings left on the west Natural Gas Midwest Energy, 620-792-1301 Trash Service Unruh Brothers Waste LLC Great Bend – 620-792-2257 Medical Care Clara Barton Hospital 250 W. Ninth, 620-653-2114 Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society – 620792-4297

side of Main Street, the town was once home to restaurants, saloons, barber shops, a hotel and a dance hall, and a drug store, operated by Edmund Reimer. Reimer, an immigrant from either Austria or Australia (depending on what newspaper he’s listed in) married a first-generation Olmitz girl.

They started a family and a business, and lived in Olmitz for many years before moving to Cimarron.

Recycling Sunflower Diversified Recycling 5605 10th St., Great Bend – 620-793-5800 U.S. Post Office 223 Main St., 620-586-3319 Zip Code 67564

Cityof

Pawnee Rock

BARTON COUNTY

106

SUSANK ODIN

GALATIA BEAVER

CLAFLIN

OLMITZ ALBERT HOISINGTON GREAT BEND

PAWNEE ROCK

ELLINWOOD

Pawnee Rock looking to preserve past

A

t the corner of Centre Street and US 54 stands the oldest building in Pawnee Rock. Made from limestone of the rock from which the town takes its name, the two-story building at 321 Centre has served in many capacities to greet visitors to the community for the past 130 years or so, most recently as P. Lee’s Antiques.

In 2019, Jerry Walker, California, visited Pawnee Rock with a niece, Glenda Kirby Walker, after they learned the antique shop, P. Lee’s Antiques, was up for sale. Walker has family ties to the city. During that visit, the idea of a museum was born.

Walker forged connections with historians and museum professionals around Kansas and beyond, and began making needed repairs and improvements to modernize the building with an eye towards opening in late 2020. Inevitable delays due to the COVID-19 crisis hit but as restrictions lifted, work has continued.

A ribbon cutting was held in May, an opening date has yet to be determined.

One of the more unique iterations of the building was when it served as a lodge for a fraternity called the Knights of Pythias, one of the oldest in the nation. In 1920, Pawnee Rock’s lodge played host to a major meeting of lodges CITY COUNCIL Mayor –Terry Mead Councilmember – Paul Umble Councilmember – Joyce Link Councilmember – Monte Stambaugh Councilmember – Lakin Dill Councilmember – Caitlin Cross Council members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at City Hall, 423 Rock Rd. 620-982-4386

from throughout the area. Here, a snapshot of the event from the May 18, 1920 Great Bend Daily Tribune. So significant was it, the Associated Press covered the event.

“THOUSANDS ATTEND PAWNEE ROCK FETE,” the headline read. “All roads in Central and Western Kansas, from Nebraska on the north to Oklahoma on the south, today lead to our neighboring city of Pawnee Rock where the big Knights of Pythias picnic and reunion is being held.”

The report went on to compare the gathering to the notable unveiling of the Pawnee Rock monument by the Women’s State Federated Clubs some years ago (1911).

It was there, at the monument, that fraternity members were expected to congregate for the

CITY DEPARTMENTS City Clerk – Chris Mead and Yvonne Link 620-982-4386 Fire Chief – Heath Dill 620-639-2381 Maintenance – Jim Oberle 620-982-4386 Medical Care The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus 514 Cleveland St., Great Bend 620-792-8833

initiatory ceremonies.

“Sentries will be posted all about the grounds to see that intruders are not permitted to attend or in any way interfere with the work, and the work will be put on by a crack degree team in full form and will be beautiful and impressive.”

Fraternal organizations flourished throughout the country during the 1920s, but after television became a widespread source of entertainment, many saw a marked drop in membership. Eventually, the Pawnee Rock Knights of Pythias dissolved, and the building for a short time served as a movie theater, a diner, and most recently as P. Lee’s Antiques.

According to a February 19, 2020 report in the Tribune, “Jerry has been working on building a board of directors for the library and museum, and is finding support from friends around the state with ties to Great Bend and Pawnee Rock, he said.

“Working on the museum has been an inspirational experience for Jerry, now the oldest member of his family. It has reconnected him with relatives and friends he hasn’t seen in decades. When the museum opens, he will make it available for special events, where he hopes others will have an opportunity for similar experiences.”

UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity & Natural Gas Midwest Energy, 1-800-222-3121 U.S. Post Office 501 Centre St., 620-982-4308 Recycling Sunflower Diversified Recycling 5605 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-5800

Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society 620-792-4297 Trash Service Arrow Trash, Great Bend 620-793-5546 Zip Code 67567

107

BARTON COUNTY

Cityof

Susank

SUSANK GALATIA

BEAVER

ODIN CLAFLIN

OLMITZ HOISINGTON

ALBERT

PAWNEE ROCK

GREAT BEND ELLINWOOD

Susank, youngest Barton County city, founded in the midst of coal shortage

L

ocated north of Hoisington is the small community of Susank. Probably the youngest city in Barton County, it was platted in December, 1919, shortly after the end of World War I, but was not incorporated until May 1940.

Susank is linked with Beaver to the east and Galatia to the west along a spur of the tracks originally part of the Santa Fe railroad. Edward J. Susank, a Barton County official, worked with the Santa Fe railroad and members of Congress to establish the town on the spur completed in 1917.

While the news of the platting of a new city might have gained the attention of the county’s media that month, it did not. The bigger story reported in the Great Bend Daily Tribune was a coal supply crisis. Striking miners in Colorado and winter weather found coal supplies depleted in the area. The Santa Fe railroad was scrambling to fill orders and keep trains moving throughout the ordeal, so there was no time to celebrate the incorporation of a new city on the spur.

Here’s an excerpt from a December, 1919

CITY COUNCIL Mayor — Dennis Trapp Councilman — Jeff Cotten Councilman — Bill Luerman Councilwoman — Jackie DeBusk Councilman — Jim Price Councilman — Rick Wilson The Susank city council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 127 Hoisington Road. Questions for council members can be directed through the mayor at 620-653-2769.

Tribune report: “Although the coal situation in this city was somewhat alleviated yesterday through the releasing of three carloads of coal, orders still continue to pile up with local coal dealers. There were no coal cars on the tracks awaiting release.

The one car load from the Pittsburgh field, which it was stated was sent to this city, during the first part of the week, has failed to arrive.

Porter Young, a member of the school board, stated this morning that the schools had a sufficient supply of fuel to last them for several days, and that the schools probably would not be forced to close on account of the shortage.

It was at first decided to allow but one week’s

CITY DEPARTMENTS City Clerk — Patty Trapp Treasurer — Diane Wilson Water Superintendent — Dennis Trapp UTILITIES AND SERVICES Electricity Western Cooperative Electric, 800456-6720 Natural Gas Midwest Energy, 620-792-1301

vacation during the holidays, but the coal situation has compelled them to allow the usual two weeks vacation, thus continuing school one week longer in the summer months.”

Susank’s Great Bend Co-op elevator underwent a $4 million renovation in 2021, and is also the site of the home office of Russell Rural Water District #3, which serves a large part of northwest Barton County and Southwest Russell County.

Long-time Susank restaurant staple J.D.’s Diner was purchased by Greg Redetzke in 2019 and renamed Susank Tavern and Grill. According to Susank Mayor Dennis Trapp, much of the menu remains the same, and Redetzke has added entertainment to the restaurant’s offerings. The restaurant is located in an old school building from District #91, which was formerly located northeast of Susank was moved to town and became the local cafe.

In its early years, Trapp said, Susank was also a lumber hot bed. During the heyday of the oil boom, many oil rigs were constructed of wood and left up, Susank was, at one time, home to six separate lumber yards.

Medical Care Clara Barton Hospital 250 W. Ninth, 620-653-2114

Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society, 620-792-4297

Trash Service Unruh Brothers Waste LLC, Great Bend, 620-796-2257

U.S. Post Office Rural route from Hoisington, 620-653-2838

Recycling Sunflower Diversified Recycling 5605 10th St., Great Bend, 620-793-5800

Population (2019 est.)

31 Zip Code 67544

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