Inspired Living January-February 2023

Publisher’s Note:

Thanks for picking up and reading the InspiredLiving Magazine published by the Great Bend Tribune. This January/ February 2023 edition marks the beginning of a new format for this bi-monthly product. This one has a new look and feel than ones we have published in the past.

We will continue to bring you a feature article on someone that inspires us but we are adding in more people that we think are inspiring as well, like Police Chief Kenton Doze from Hoisington and school teacher Katie Teghtmeyer. We also want you to meet people that share our love for this community, like Nancy Baird from Ellinwood.

Do you have someone that has inspired you, give me a call or email me as we would love to consider them for one of our next editions.

In addition, this issue includes a community calendar, recipes for the big game, book and movie reviews, information on pets and lots more. I hope you enjoy.

---- Judy Duryee

ON THE COVER THROUGH THE LENS

This is our bi-monthly magazine and we at InspiredLiving want to hear what you think. We need your brightest ideas for coming issues. Musicians? Finest artists? Beautiful homes? Tellers? Local nightlife? We are open-minded. Contact Judy Duryee at 620-792-1211, ext. 201. Feel free to email also: jduryee@gbtribune.com.

Ron Weathers captures the moment and the mind

by Mike Gilmore mgilmore@gbtribune.com

Feature photo by Hugo Gonzalez hgonzalez@gbtribune.com

Through the viewfinder of his camera, Ron Weathers sees something in just about everything. With a half-century of framing, shooting and creating photographs behind him, he is focused on the present moment — whether it be an abandoned building, a horizon, a unique setting or a slowly-rusting hunk of twisted metal with some forgotten purpose or history.

With a camera in his hand, he sets out, looking for that one old, decaying subject, with life remaining, that speaks and says, “take my picture.”

“People love old, grungy stuff,” he said. “What does it do to our brains, that we’re attracted to stuff like that? I don’t know why, but it speaks to all of us. I don’t have the answer, but I enjoy photographing it and people enjoy looking at it, so it’s a perfect scenario.

“You’re looking at something and you click for no good reason,” he said. “Later on, I realize that it’s probably something in my brain that I consciously wasn’t seeing. I have photos that I don’t remember taking or why, that end up being ‘the shot.’”

Old buildings or abandoned vehicles are a favorite, he said, “because you don’t know how long they’ve been there, or how much longer they will be. It could be next week, next month or next year, but if you don’t capture that moment it will surely be gone by the time you come back.”

A shutterbug’s origins

Weathers first picked up a camera while attending Great Bend High School, as a yearbook and newspaper photographer. Those were the “wonder years,” in the 1970s, when photography meant a 35mm camera with a 50mm lens or maybe longer, and rolls and rolls of film.

For Weathers, walking the halls with a Konica or Pentax K-1000 SLR in his grasp was a natural thing. “I’ve always wanted to have a camera in my hand,” he said.

The darkroom also held a special appeal. “That’s where the magic happened, back in the day,” he said. “We were burning and dodging in the darkroom, and now we just do it on the computer.”

His first real job was as a darkroom technician for George Brannan’s studio, Brannan was a master photographer after surviving a German prison in WWII, coming to Great Bend after the war. Brannon’s studio employed two full-time lab technicians, one for black and white and the other for color photography.

“I was the black-and-white guy,” Weathers said. “Eight hours a day, black and white custom photographs.”

Working through college, Weathers was in the darkroom when the studio was passed to Dale Riggs in 1978.

The budding artist

Weathers set his camera down for a short stint in “the corporate world,” but in 1993, the mountains of New Mexico were calling. He landed in Red River, where the community’s 477 residents host and entertain upwards of a half-million visitors a year as a popular ski resort. When he snagged a job at a local photography company, he was happy to reach for his camera again.

“Red River, N. M. is two blocks wide and a mile long but we do a half-million visitors a year,” he said. “We photographed everything that was going on: events, the ski industry and white-water rafting industry; portaits of weddings and everything there was going on in the off-season and in the spring and fall we went on the road and photographed motorcycle rallies all over the center of the U.S.”

Weathers was in charge of the labs and technicians, with the new digital technology coming on.

He worked there for 26 years. Photography was his mainstay but art, which had always been a passion, became a reality.

“During all of this, I revived my love of doing landscapes and things like that,” he said. “I do a lot of festivals, and there are a lot of art festivals that happen in that part of the world. My stuff is hanging in certain places in New Mexico.”

Photographers, writers, they get into ruts, and so I picked up the digital art and kind of got the juices flowing again. After I do that for a while, then I really feel like going out and taking pictures.

“It’s inspiring,” Weathers said.

Sidelined

Things were going fine until 2006, when a cancer diagnosis threatened one of his “windows to the mind.”

“I had a melanoma from my time doing white-water rafting, on my eyeball,” he said. “The way it was explained to me is anything you get on your skin, you can get on your eyes. It was removed in 2006. Not my dominant, my shooting eye, so I was fortunate there. They took it out, removed it, said everything was good.”

In 2019, however, things were not good. “They found out it had metastasized and went into my lymph nodes and it was everywhere. I had to quit my job and my wife and I owned a hotel, we sold the hotel and came back to Great Bend. We wanted to be close to family and my dad, LeRoy Weathers, who has since passed.”

In the years that followed, Weathers has traveled back and forth from New Mexico to Kansas, where he maintains residences. “There is no solid routine,” he said. The cancer is being controlled, but words like “remission” and “cancerfree” are yet to be voiced, he said.

“They don’t use those words,” Weathers noted. “I have been out of treatment a year and a half, and statistically if it comes back it will

come back within two years.”

In the meantime, Weathers has expanded his art foray further into the digital realm.

His photographs cover a wide range of categories, from churches to trains to spots in Kansas and other states.

His digital artwork, however, is a real look into the inner Weathers.

Mythical creatures, like unicorns and steampunk cats, abound; so do aliens at work and at play on Earth and at home; fairies, angels, demons and series prints on scary dolls and origins of the universe leap to life on Weathers’ laptop in splashes of digital color.

“It’s inspiring,” Weathers said. “Photographers, writers, they get into ruts, and so I picked up the digital art and kind of got the juices flowing again. After I do that for a while, then I really feel like going out and taking pictures.”

When he’s not creating, Weathers enjoys time spent with people, especially other artists.

“My idea of a fun artist experience is just a few artists sitting around,” he said. “We could spend an entire afternoon having coffee one day a week or a month, just hanging out together and sharing ideas.”

And he’d have his camera handy, just in case.

Craft BEERS

Lager, the world’s most popular beer

ger, Lager,

The ch beer, tha bottom of the ferm

The defining characteristic of a lager is that it’s a bottom-fermented beer, meaning that the yeasts used to ferment the beer gather at the bottom of the fermentation tank. Ales, on the other hand, use yeasts that are top-fermenting.

These bottom-fermenting yeasts can tolerate much lower temperatures, reducing the number of by-products during the fermentation stage, producing a cleaner, more crisp brew. Lagers can be aged much longer than ales and at lower cellar temperatures.

Lager is the world’s most popular beer. It tends to be crisp and refreshing, and the type includes some of America’s most famous beers, such as Budweiser, Miller Genuine Draft and Coors.

It’s important to remember that a lager refers to a brewing style. There are many types of lager, and that term refers to the actual beer. A dunkel, for instance, is a dark lager from Bavaria that’s made with roasted malts and has a nutty, bready flavor. Pilsners are pale beers, golden and full-bodied, that use a floor-malted barley. These are refreshing beers with low alcohol content, so you won’t feel them as quickly. Amber lagers are sweet and crisp, and the most famous is Oktoberfest beer. Bocks are strong, malty and darker than other lagers.

Lagers are generally served cold — unless it’s a bock; serve that closer to room temperature — and can show up in a mug, pint or pilsner glass. Amber lagers may be poured into a stein while a stemmed goblet is the traditional way to serve a bock. Tilt the glass to a 45-degree angle and pour slowly. You should have a head that’s about two fingers tall.

Mass-market lagers are the easy-drinking pilsners that are everywhere in the country. These are golden beers made by the big beer brands like Pacifico and Beck’s and Pabst Blue Ribbon. They’re designed for mass appeal and have their place in the beer pantheon when you need a comforting, familiar beer. Some popular large brands of lagers are Stella Artois, Sapporo, Pilsner Urquell, Lagunitas Pils and Shiner Bock.

All lagers work well with food. These versatile brews can go with anything from pizza to pasta. Turn to bocks when you’re serving spicy food or chocolate.

The teams, mascots and colors change. But certain elements must be in place each year.

You can create fun twists by developing a theme, or find offbeat things to do for those who don’t have someone to pull for. But every one of these annual gatherings has to hit certain marks in order to come off without a hitch.

Here’s a handy checklist for your big game party to make sure you don’t end up forgetting one of these must-have items.

FOOD

Create a menu that can satisfy a diverse crowd, focusing on so-called “finger foods.” That means things that are easily picked up and eaten without utensils. So chips and dip, sandwiches, slices of pizza and wings. Purchase or make plenty of it, too. Set up a buffet-style table in a separate area so that fans can fill their plates away from the football action, then place small tables around the TV viewing areas. Have plenty of plates, cups, bowls and cutlery on hand. Save the breakable fine china for another day. Things will inevitably get knocked over. (Speaking of which, keep plenty of paper towels and napkins on hand, too.)

DRINKS

Stock up on a wide variety of drinks, including beer, seltzers and wine, but also soda, water, nonalcoholic drinks and caffeinated options since some of your guests may abstain. Bring in plenty of coolers, small tubs and buckets for the drinks, so they can be strategically placed throughout the house. Bottle openers are also sometimes required, so you’ll need a few. Finally, have lots (and lots) of ice on hand. You’ll have to keep your coolers full, and some guests may want to add ice to their preferred beverages.

SETTING UP

Seating is the most important element to plan out, after food and drinks. Count your RSVPs and make sure you have more than enough seats for all of your guests. If you don’t, ask friends to bring folding chairs or lawn furniture to the party. Larger pillows, blankets and throw rugs can also create seating options on the floor. Then head out to a local party store for banners, streamers, fun decor like footballs or football-shaped balloons. Match the colors to the teams who are playing in the big game.

So you’re ready to play host — now what?

badge Behind the

Q. Chief Doze, how long have you been in law enforcement and is this what you always wanted to do with your life?

A. “I’ve been in law enforcement 45 years. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do. I grew up in Great Bend; I’ve worked for at least four different agencies. I started in 1977 at the Barton County Sheriff’s Office. Then, I joined the United States Air Force, was a cop and a dog handler there, after that I worked for the Albuquerque Police Department. I moved back to this area in 1991 and worked for the Great Bend Police Department and now here I am in Hoisington.”

Q. What is the most memorable thing in your career? Or what are things you and your office do that most people don’t know?

A. “Oh gee. There’s a lot of things over 45 years, a lot of memorable things. Something that really stuck with me is many, many years ago on a Friday of the Labor Day weekend, I was relaxing at home and had the window blinds open. I saw a gentleman walking up to my house. So, I walked out there and I asked if I could help him and he said, ‘You don’t remember me, do you?’ I said I didn’t. He mentioned his name and then told me he wanted to shake my hand, because I had saved his life. We had served a search warrant on his house for drugs and he ended up going to jail, he said that saved his life. To search me out, to find me after all those years and thank me, that is a unique thing.”

Q. Have you ever given a relative a ticket?

A. “Not that I can think of. Years ago, my daughter got a ticket and the Sheriff asked me if it needed taken care of and I said, ‘No, that’s not the way I am.’”

Q. What do you like to do in your off duty time?

A. “What I really like to do is get out and about, walk amongst the community and talk to people. People say ‘Oh, you’re that chief that walks all over. That’s me.”

Q. If you could tell the public any one thing, what would it be?

A. “Just to be safe, and be honest about everything you do.”

STREAMING

“Mr. Robot”

Available on Amazon Prime Review

by Tyler Julson

This show is a cyber-crime thriller type, focusing on Elliot and his mission to shop the global elite. I must admit I am only two seasons in to the show’s four-season run, but it has pulled me in. So far there have been two huge plot twists that have made me question everything I had watched up to that point. It’s a very intricate show that will pull things from earlier episodes you thought were completely inconsequential. It will definitely make you think.

If you’re the type of person who gets a little sketched out by the thought of always being watched online an nervous about being hacked,“Mr. Robot” will play upon those fears. I used to be nonchalant about that stuff, but now when anything goes slightly wrong with my technology or it glitches for even the tiniest moment, I’m convinced I’m being hacked.

Overall it’s a really good show with the great actions and wonderful cinematography. It’s definitely worth your time.

“Children of the Cult”

Available on Discovery+

Review by Kim Ehrich

“Children of the Cult” explores one of the most well known cults. This survivor-centered documentary is about the Children of God that is internationally known and still active to this present day. The short series focuses on three British women who escaped the cult and their stories of their childhood experiences. The three women were born into the cult and were brought up with firsthand grooming, brainwashing and other cult practices. The documentary exposes the horrific practices the cult followed, trafficking and other crimes. The women talk about how they freed themselves physically and mentally, other peers they lost along the way and how they are now seeking justice. I could not fathom this one cult was so widespread. The documentary was able to help me understand that they could not simply just pick up and leave, especially when they didn’t start to realize that they were victims until an older age.

If you are a fan of home makeover shows, this show is for you! These lovely ladies on this show are making over motels to be chic and beautiful. In 2016, best friends April and Sarah quit their jobs to focus on updating roadside motels in Canada to make them swanky places for people to spend their weekends away. These ladies have made their motel’s “Instagram” ready, so you can have a cute photo-op at any location in the motel. I enjoyed watching this show because it was fun to watch them design each room, and they also give you advice and design inspo along the way, which is perfect for new homeowners and people who are trying to have a cute place on a budget!

“Turner and Hooch”

Available

on Disney+ Review by Chelsey Bellrichard

A TV adaptation of the 1989 film “Turner and Hooch,” the show focuses on his son Scott and his U.S. Marshall job.

Scott has acquired his dad’s dog Hooch, who is the second Hooch his dad owned. Scott is not ready to have a dog, as he is a single man focusing on his career, but he has no other choice but to keep Hooch, because it was what his father wanted.

Throughout the show we see Scott training Hooch to be a part of the U.S. Marshal’s canine team and taking him on missions. While this show is on Disney+, I will say since Scott is a U.S. Marshall, there are guns used in the show, but I would definitely not let that deter you from watching it. This show is lighthearted and funny, and my kids and I enjoy watching this together!

“The Circle”

Available on Netflix

Review by Deanna Rochleau

This is my guilty pleasure. I can’t believe I’ve watched all three seasons, but I have indeed. Lock a handful of people in separate rooms and only allow them to interact through text. Some of them are who they say they are and some are “catfishing,” pretending to be someone else. While catfishing is a social media no-no, I’m not quite sure why the players care as long as they can get the other players to like them and rate them highly. The players regularly rank each other and those with the top rankings then get to block one person from The Circle. In the end, the person ranked highest wins a cash prize. The show is narrated throughout by the host who makes quips about the goings on. The quips are funny but not mean.“The Circle” is a little silly, but ultimately enjoyable.

Review by Chelsey Bellrichard

By John Pavlovitz Review by Julie Seedorf

“If God is Love, Don’t Be a Jerk” may hit you right between the eyes. No matter what you believe or what political affiliation you might identify with, this book should make you pause and examine your beliefs. I couldn’t put it down as the author seemed to be living in my headspace during these traumatic times.

I would imagine the author is going to get flack over this piece of work because it goes against the norm of what we expect from books about Christianity. Finally, someone says what many of us have wondered but not dared to speak in our religious affiliations. John Pavolitz in “If God Is Love Don’t Be A Jerk, Finding a Faith That Makes Us Better Humans” challenges all of us to do better in our lives and our interactions with others.

“The Betrothed”

By Kiera Cass Review by Angel Massee

Lady of the court, Hollis Brite, has King Jameson falling in love with her. Hollis wishes she was able to reciprocate those feelings, but the thought of being queen leaves a feeling of uneasiness. With some countries having conflicts, foreigners are finding safety across the border. A “commoner” family from Isolte is begging for the king’s blessing into his county. The son of this family stares deeply into Hollis’ eyes, leaving her gasping for air. Who does her heart truly desire? A wealthy king or just a commoner?

I enjoyed the easy read of this book - I didn’t put it down until it was done!

“Mr. Mercedes”

By Stephen King Review by Jaimyan DaVeiga

A madman is terrorizing a city, and a retired cop is the only person that can stop him! A man in a Mercedes plowed through a crowd of people waiting in line at a job fair, and years later it remains an unsolved case that haunts retired Detective William Hodges. When the retired detective gets a letter from the Mercedes driver, outlining an even more heinous crime that could take out thousands, he could succumb to impending depression or he could gather his allies and throw a wrench into the madman’s horrendous plan. This was my first experience reading a Stephen King novel, and I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I see the appeal and recognize the genius that is King. Very well crafted story!

“The Modern Breakup”

By Daniel Chidiac Review by Kim Ehrich

Ladies, if you are having troubles in the dating scene and your mind can’t stop feeling all the emotions that come along with it, stop everything and buy this book. It’s full of raw and revealing truths about the dating world in today’s perspective. The character, Amelia, is overwhelmed with conflicting thoughts and emotions after an unexpected break-up happened in her life. This book is so unbelievably relatable that you will be left with answering “Uh yes!” to all the questions that she is asking herself. Follow her journey and how she learns to take control of all her insecurities, love herself first and how she figures out what she truely wants in a relationship.

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I ❤ Great Bend 2023

Valentine Giveaway

Enter each participating store starting Feb. 1st to win a gift card each week and a grand prize on Feb. 21st. Downtown Great Bend. For more information go to Explore Great Bend on Facebook

JANUARY

THRU U FEB.

Longest Tail Feather Contestest st Fea L e a nte

Hunters are invited to sububmimit th the ta tail re in ter he taiail feather from their harvevested pheasant ed pheasan ested easant by Wednesday February 1. A prize will be ary w Aprize ry1 eb awarded and there he are two divisions. Recreation Ce t nter e , 1214 Stone St. C www.gr g eatben e drec c .com for ww w attion and d ruless. mainfoorm n r i

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Stories & Smores

In celebration of USD 428 Reading Initiative come in and listen to Kansas Children’s author Shelly Simoneau, enjoy smores and laughter. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Children’s ages. Lower Level Meeting Room. Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams.

Winter Pickleball Classic Men’s and Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Panther Athletic Center, 2027 Morton Street. Recreation Center, 1214 Stone St. www.greatbendrec.com for information and rules.

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Perler Bead Day

Stop in and create perler bead creations.

There are patterns or design your own. 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Children’s ages. Chidren’s department. Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams.

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Kansas Youth Basketball Tournament

Boys and Girls divisions, 1/2, 3/4 5/6, 7/8 Grades. Panther Athletic Center, 2027 Morton Street. Register online www.kbaf.org

4

Heart of Kansas Walk

Join Heart of Kansas Family Health Care and support the American Heart Association. Individuals can register by going to www.heart.org. Activity Center, 2715 18th St., 9-11:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY

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Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory

Interactive Movie

Do you want to find a golden ticket? Eat some Willy Wonka treats? Have fun as we shout at the screen and interact by using props during this showing. Registration required. All ages. 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 P.M. Lower Level Meeting Room. Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams.

25 MARCH

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Banquet

101st Annual Awards Night. Call the Great Bend Chamber for details. 620-792-2401

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CASA Chocolate Auction

Great Bend Events Center, doors open 5:30 p.m. Call 620-792-5544 or go to www.centralkanascasa.org.

Tickets and reservations required.

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Kansas Youth Basketball Tournament

March 4 Boys, March 5 Girls, 3/4, 5/6, Grades.

Hoisington Athletic Center, 1200 Susank Rd. Register online www.kbaf.org

KWEC WILD Club

Beeswax Lip Balm – Celebrate Kansas and our state insect. Come learn about the Honey Bee and some of the native Kansas bee species. We’ll make a beeswax lip balm for each participant. 2:00 p.m. The program is free but need to pre-register by calling 877-243-9268 or email amkern2@fhsu.edu.

There’s lots of events going on at the Great Bend Public LIbrary every month. Find more information by going to: https://libcal.greatbendpl.info/calendar/ or check with the library at 1409 Williams

There’s lots of events and activities going on at the Great Bend Recreation Center every month.

Find more information by going to: https://greatbendrec.com

Hoisington Recreation Commission: https://hoisingtonrec.com Ellinwood Recreation Commission: https://ellinwoodrec.com

Surfs Up!

Come in and enter the Surfs Up Surf Board Decorating Contest. Supplies provided. Drop in between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. All ages. Children’s Department. Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams.

Ladies Night Out #1, Great Bend - Theme: St. Patrick’s Day Get your gal pals out and go shopping! Participating stores will be open showing off their unique products and ladies will love the drinks, snacks and pampering.

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“We Care About Your Health”

Watching Your Sugar

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Like most things, sweets are fine in moderation. But if you find yourself regularly indulging, you could be setting yourself up for some serious health risks. Even if you don’t eat candy, you still might be getting far too much sugar in the form of added ingredients in items like soda, canned fruits, smoothies and yogurt. Worrisome government statistics have shown that U.S. adults are getting as much as 13% of their daily calories from sugar.

HEALTH IMPACTS

GOOD SUGAR?

SUGGARAR?

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Sugars are always found in food that also contains carbohydrates, including grains, dairy, some vegetables and fruits. These naturally occurring sugars are perfectly healthy because whole foods and dairy also contain high amounts of things like fiber, proteins, calciums, minerals and antioxidants. The body digests these things more slowly, leaving sugar to provide energy in the meantime. Problems occur when you ingest too much sugar, in particular sugars added by manufacturers in an effort to extend shelf life or increase flavor.

Medical Park Pharmacy

Excessive consumption of sugars, in candy and as an added ingredient, may create an imbalance in your bloodstream that causes irreparable damage to your liver. Diabetes then leads to other severe health problems. There is a clear relationship between high-sugar diets and cardiovascular health. One 15-year study showed that those who got between 17-21% of their daily calories via added sugars had a 38% higher risk of dying from heart disease compared with those who followed guidelines. Ingesting excess sugars also leads to obesity, since our bodies begin storing calories when they’re not immediately needed. Those who are grossly overweight are then at risk for related health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease, among others.

SETTING LIMITS

Added sugars should be limited to half of your daily recommended sugar intake, according to the American Heart Association. For most American men, that equals no more than 150 calories. For most women, it’s no more than 100 calories.

Is Your Child Getting Enough Calcium?

The most effective way for children to consume calcium is through a calciumrich diet. Children also need vitamin D to help absorb calcium more efficiently.

The recommended dose of vitamin D for children of all ages is 400 International Units (IUs) each day. Many foods, including low-fat milk, yogurt and fortified cereals, provide added vitamin D along with calcium.

Vitamin D is also made by the body from exposure to the sun. Only 15 minutes a day in the sun will provide children with one day’s worth of vitamin D.

Eating a Diet Rich in Calcium

Drinking milk and eating dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are excellent ways to ensure children get enough calcium in their diet. However, if your child is lactose intolerant or you choose to raise your child on a dairy-free diet, there are still ways for children to get enough calcium through other foods.

Dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, white beans, almonds and calciumenriched cereals, soy milk, rice milk and orange juice are all good choices for adding calcium to the diet.

Other sources of calcium for families not on a restricted diet include:

Children should avoid sodas, too much sugar, caffeine and excessive sodium in their diets because these things can interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body.

In most cases, children get enough calcium through a balanced, healthy diet. However, if your child is unable to eat dairy or is on a restricted diet, it may be necessary to add a calcium supplement to his diet.

Talk to a doctor before giving your child a calcium supplement because too much calcium in the diet through supplementation can cause health problems.

Watching your child’s diet and including foods rich in calcium are the best ways to ensure he is getting what he needs to build strong bones and grow up healthy. The amount of calcium children need on a daily basis is dependent upon their age. The Office of

Create a personal SAVING PLAN

It’s important not to make lofty plans that become a source of frustration, instead of a comfortable fallback position in times of need.

The National Endowment of Financial Education offers a series of helpful suggestions for those looking to create a personal savings plan.

GETTING STARTED

Begin by making your savings a listed and fixed element of monthly spending. We often plan on getting around to creating this needed safeguard, but never do. Earmarking certain funds to be put away for later makes you less likely to spend them. Take advantage of your bank’s automatic savings tools, online or through your phone. Money will be funneled out of your checking account where daily transactions are happening and into a savings account for later. Even funneling spare change into this effort can help build up your reserves more quickly.

Dedicate any windfall to savings, if you can. If not, then pledge to save most of any bonuses, your tax refund, an extraordinary night in tips or unexpected freelance opportunities.

The recommended goal is to have three to six months of your possible

expenses saved in order to buy time if you or your family experiences an unexpected cash-flow problem— including job loss, injury or extended medical issues.

Financial management firms recommend putting lump-sum income into a short-term investment situation during a so-called coolingoff period. These options include a savings account, CD or money-market account. This will give you space to develop a strategy for moving ahead. After that, you’re ready to consider investment strategies that may lead to future growth, other near-term financial goals and your retirement.

BANKING OPTIONS

Savings accounts are great places to stash away extra cash, but your return on that investment is often very low. They bear interest, but often not very much. If you’d like that money to work harder for you, consider talking to a qualified financial advisor about investment options like CDs. Just make sure you focus

on safe choices, so that you don’t unnecessarily risk everything you’ve worked so hard to build up.

BE ACCOUNTABLE

In particular when you are just getting started, savings require discipline. You won’t be able to buy those extra items you may want, but do not need. Eating out may need to be replaced by a few home-cooked meals, which can be prepared far more cheaply. If you’re having

trouble getting and staying on track, make saving a team effort. A spouse, trustworthy friend or financial professional can serve as an accountability partner. If you’re not saving at the recommended pace, they’ll be there to have difficult discussions about how to move forward.

As our best friends age, they require more attention and help.

Pets are living longer than ever, but that comes with an increase in our responsibilities, too.

Credit for these lengthier lifespans goes to improved veterinary care, smarter dietary choices and better living conditions. Our pets richly deserve all of this special attention. But owners should prepare themselves for the budget pressures that inevitably follow as our furry friends age.

THE AGE RANGE

Small dogs and cats are generally considered to be geriatric when they reach the age of seven. Larger breeds of dogs usually have shorter life spans, so their geriatric age is moved up to six. Beginning around

then, pets are at greater risk of cancer, kidney or urinary tract issues, heart and liver disease, diabetes, joint and bone problems, senility and general weakness.

SPECIAL CONCERNS

Senior pets also become more susceptible to quality-of-life issues that are commonly associated with their older owners, like obesity, arthritis and dental problems. Pets naturally slow down some as they age. So be on the lookout for sharp declines in mobility, as that may be a sign of issues like arthritis or deteriorating joints. Pay

close attention to trouble they may have with using stairs, or an inability to get comfortable when trying to lay down. Becoming more sedentary often leads to weight problems, and that has also been linked to various negative health outcomes including heart disease and diabetes.

CHANGING NEEDS

Your pet’s needs will continue to change as they age. Weather conditions may play an increasing role in what they do outside, since the risk of injury increases. Be aware of extremes in heat or cold, since older pets will be more

sensitive to them. Lowered metabolism may require tweaks to their diet. A certain amount of exercise is required to help with weight gain, and to combat heart disease. Just be careful not to overdo it.

BEHAVIORAL ISSUES

Older pets who become disoriented may be suffering from a kind of cognitive disfunction that’s similar to Alzhiemer’s. The American Veterinary Medical Association also warns pet owners to watch for a decrease in thirst or appetite, since those are warning signs for larger problems in the pancreas or stomach. If wounds are slow to heal, that could indicate immune-system issues and cancer.

Teacher

Teghtmeyer

English instructor National Honor Society advisor Great Bend High School/Barton Community College

Q. Did you know you always wanted to be a teacher? Did your parents ever tell you what you said you wanted to be when you were in kindergarten?

A. I entered college with a desire to become a computer programmer. In fact, my first degree is an Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems. During my first two years of college, though, I began to realize that God had a different plan for my life. I grew dissatisfied with the lack of human interaction in my field, and after visiting my sister’s Middle School classroom and then coaching a youth recreational tennis league that following summer, I knew that I had a passion for teaching and an overwhelming desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. Prior to beginning my junior year in college, I declared a dual major in English and Secondary Education.

My parents would tell you that, as a kindergartener, I wanted to be a barrel racer. Martha Josey was my idol.

Q. What classes do you teach?

A. All of the classes I teach at Great Bend High School are dual-credit classes, which offer college credit to students through Barton Community College. High school students who enroll in my AP English Language and Composition class and my AP English Literature and Composition class earn college

credit for English Composition I and Introduction to Literature, respectively. I have also taught classes for Barton Community College’s BASICS (Building Academic Skills in Correctional Settings) program for the past eight years. Those classes include a rotation of English Composition I, English Composition II, Creative Writing, Introduction to Literature, and World Literature.

Q. How do you inspire students in and out of class?

A. Every day I strive to make learning challenging, relevant, and rewarding for my students. I want them to see how our content relates to and is useful in their daily lives. I encourage students to work hard, to embrace challenges, and to take pride in a job well done. That said, just as important to me as my content is the atmosphere of my classroom: I want my students to feel they are part of a family in Room 214, to know that I genuinely care about each one of them, and to feel valued both as learners and as people. My students understand that I never expect them always to agree with each other or even with me, but they learn to consider different viewpoints and to embrace one another’s differences. Together, we celebrate good news, test scores, and birthdays, and we support one another when life becomes challenging.

Outside of school, my

disposition really doesn’t change. I enjoy the little things in life, and I truly believe the little things are some of the most important. My mom always said that a bad day is a wasted day, so I grew up looking for the best in each day, and I still do. I also look for the best in people, and I treat others with kindness. I’m almost always smiling, and I believe hugs are good for the soul. I’m certainly not perfect, but every day I try to be the best version of myself and to become the person God wants me to be.

Q. What are your pastimes outside of school?

A. I love spending time with my husband, Daren; our miniature dachshund, Oliver; and my family and friends. I also enjoy helping others, playing the piano, riding my horse, going for walks, working outside, trying new recipes, watching the New York Yankees, and target shooting.

Q. What is your favorite quote or something you say all the time?

A. One of my favorite quotations is from Dr. Seuss: “Be who you are, and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” I also love, among many scriptures, Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Kayci

AP

GIFTS FOR HIM OR HER

It’s hard to go wrong with the classics: gourmet chocolates or chocolatecovered strawberries, a bouquet of flowers, a diamond tennis bracelet and perfume. Or you can go a different route: cookbooks for the food lover; scents for the woman who loves her house smelling like a tropical island in the middle of the winter; or a shoulder bag.

Whatever your partner likes, and whatever budget you’re working on, you can find a great, personalized gift for her.

JEWELRY

Earrings, necklaces and bracelets, either simple or ornate, make great gifts. If you’re unsure of your partner’s style or you want something a little different, talk to your local jeweler about different gemstones, styles or settings. Your jeweler can help you find something that plays to her tastes.

FLOWERS

Whether it’s 12 long-stemmed red roses, a bowl of brightly colored tropical blooms or a vase of her favorite flowers, brighten your Valentine’s Day with a little greenery delivered to her office or home or by you. If flowers aren’t her thing, look into living plants like a cactus for those who don’t have a green thumb, herbs for a woman who wants a little fragrance or a plant for her desk or windowsill. Not much of a gardener yourself? Talk to your florist about beautiful, fresh ways to say, “I love you.”

A SPA DAY OR OTHER SERVICE

Get a certificate for a massage, facial and mani-pedi at your local spa; an appointment with a personal shopper (check with her first, though); a gift certificate for framing or for a class in which she’s interested; or a night at a bed and breakfast. Unless

your partner has actually asked for it, though, a gym membership, meal delivery services or housecleaning is territory you want to avoid.

ART OR DECOR

Is there a photograph she likes, a piece of art she’s always found attractive, a wall clock or funky lamp that she’s told you would look great in her living room? If you’re not sure, pick out the gift together. The element of surprise is nice; knowing you’re getting her exactly what she wants is even better.

BEYOND TRADITIONAL

Good Housekeeping offered a number of less typical gifts: wine tasting or a corkscrew, a hanging terrarium, a personalized cheese board or welcome mat, a suitcase, a comfy plush bathrobe or bath beads.

Men may seem hard to shop for, especially if you’ve exhausted all your good gift ideas at Christmas, and maybe all you’ve come up with so far is a tie. Before you rule that out — does he wear ties to work? Does he like funny ties? Did you see a nice silk tie that’s perfect for an upcoming event? Maybe a tie isn’t such a bad idea.

FOR THE CHEF OR FOODIE

Get a new grill, grill accessories or an apron for him to wear while grilling.

If he’s more of an inside chef, look at cast-iron skillets, Dutch ovens or a pizza stone. If he’s into beer, consider a six-pack from local brewery or a home-brewing set; if you’re looking a little smaller,

how about a custom bottle opener or coasters? For the foodie, find a box of chocolates or specialty candy or a gift certificate to his favorite restaurant or more adventurous foods you can try together.

FOR THE OFFICE

Between commuting and the office, work takes up a lot of time. Make the work day a little nicer for him with a new laptop bag or briefcase, art for his office, gadgets for his mobile phone or tablet, or a subscription to an audiobook service for him to listen to during the commute.

Get him a set of cuff links — simple and classy, or fun and personalized, whatever he’d like the most — or a watch. If he’s open to a bit of a closet

makeover, a new blazer or two or that nice tie works. And, since goofy socks are becoming more in vogue, get a couple of pairs with cartoon characters, chicken drumsticks or the solar system.

STILL LOOKING?

Get him a bottle of cologne — either a bottle of his favorite scent or something new that he’ll like. If you have trees in your backyard or a couple of posts, get him a hammock, even if he has to wait a couple of months to hang it up. Find something related to his hobbies, like hiking boots, outdoor gear, tools or musical instruments, or go for a classic like slippers or a robe for cold nights.

The Fort Zarah Treaty 1866

By Linda McCaffery MA Research and Collections Specialist Barton County Historical Society

There is a little-known state park between Great Bend and Ellinwood. The first thing one sees as they enter the park is an historic marker describing a sandstone fort located just east of the location, Fort Zarah. The fort existed only five years, 1864-1869, yet it bore witness to both the Civil War and Indian Wars. It was built to protect the strategic crossing of Walnut Creek on the Santa Fe Trail. Today, the site looks like any other wheat field, empty and lonely, but in 1866 the location was buzzing with activity.

During February and March an estimated 4000 members of Southern Cheyenne, “Arapahoe, Kiowa, Comanche, and Plains Apache

camped near the fort awaiting supplies or annuities promised in the Fort Lyons and Little Arkansas Peace Treaties. Peace had not been the outcome of either treaty, in fact, one of the most tragic events in American history, The Sand Creek Massacre, had occurred just fifteen months earlier. Brutality was not limited to the Whites, warrior societies raided along the Smoky Hill River and Santa Fe Trails resulting in many persons killed or captured. With the construction of the Kansas Pacific (Union Pacific) and the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroads reaching further west, tribes would be forced to cede lands upon which the tracks were constructed and ensure the safety of the construction crews.

COURTESY PHOTOS of santafetrailresearch.com Fort Zarah Paint. (Above) Fort Zarah Treaty 1866 marker.

Runners brought the news to scattered bands of the coming council and annuities’ distribution. In charge of the negotiations was Major Ned Wynkoop, although he had tried to prevent the Sand Creek Massacre, his name would forever be associated with the tragedy. Two other men attending the council: William Bent and Black Kettle, had also tried to prevent the massacre. As with Wynkoop, both men sincerely wanted peace and understood tribal culture. One vital understanding was, one leader or chief did not speak for the entire tribe. Therefore, one or two signatures was basically useless.

Unfortunately, several other members of the council, not only lacked experience, were incompetent or in the case of I.C. Taylor, Indian Agent from Fort Larned, was drunk the entire time. To make the difficult situation even worse the quality of the annuity goods was deplorable. Much of the food was rotten and the poor quality of the clothing made much of it unusable.

Another important misunderstanding of the post-Civil War era is, the tremendous debt that the United State Government owed. Amounts promised in treaty negotiations, often were not fully funded. The monies were often further depleted by the greed of Indian Agents.

Wynkoop knew this task would be difficult as he was asking the tribes to vacate traditional hunting grounds between the Platte and Arkansas Rivers. These rights had been guaranteed upon a year earlier by some civilian or peace chiefs, however the warrior societies such as the Cheyenne and Arapaho Dog Soldiers had not attended, nor agreed to the plan.

On March 1, Peace Chiefs Black Kettle and Poor Bear met with Wynkoop. Also in attendance were two leaders of the soldier societies, Medicine Arrows and Big

Head. Wynkoop reminded the assembly of the importance of peace with the United States Government and Military, which resulted in a signed agreement. However, peace did not follow the attempts to end conflict. Military defeat, disease and the extermination of the American Bison brought the tribes no alternative but bow to the superior power.

“They made us many promises, more than I can remember. But they kept but one - They promised to take our land ... and they took it.” - Chief Red Cloud, Oglala Lakota Sioux

FORT ZARAH

FORT ZARAH PHOTOGRAPHER LEGENDS OF AMERICA.

Ellinwood and this part of Kansas

WhyNancy Baird

When Nancy Baird and her husband Kris were scouting out places to live in 1996, they were looking for a community to settle into that would feel like home. They picked Ellinwood, and have loved it ever since, she said.

“Both of us are from small communities,” she said. “We have loved raising two children (Bailey and Kaden) in this community.”

Baird became immediately immersed in the workings of the community that helped grow their love. She has been blessed to be a part of St. John Lutheran Child Development Center, Ellinwood Recreation, Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce, Ellinwood United Methodist Church and Ellinwood USD 355 school committees.

“I have an amazing career at Doll Insurance Group, where I love meeting new people every day,” she noted.

Although it’s been years since Baird was the director of Ellinwood’s Chamber of Commerce, but she still gets calls.

“People ask me if I am still doing that,” she said, although she officially stepped down as Chamber Director in 2013.

It’s a testament to her involvement, that the folks in Ellinwood remember her leadership there.

She joined Doll insurance group in Ellinwood as an agent, becoming office manager in 2005.

She served as Ellinwood Recreation Director for 10 years, from 2004-2014 and as administrator for the Chamber from April 2007 to August 2013.

The annual Ellinwood Harvest Festival is always held the third weekend in July.

Ellinwood

Her civic connections gave her an appreciation for the workings of businesses in the community and allowed her to connect with the residents as well.

When she first was chamber director, she admitted to being nervous about presenting in front of groups. Now, she’s comfortable with it.

Although she is not directly involved, she keeps tabs on Ellinwood activities through social media. “When I started, Facebook had not caught on yet,” she said.

Her favorite civic activity was her work with the After Harvest Festival, which as been a local community favorite event for the past 50 years. “AHF has such a history,” she noted. “It’s the backbone of the Chamber.”

A wonderful gift given to me years ago by Joe Hickel was when he asked me to take over his Focus on Ellinwood monthly radio show,” she said. “What a great opportunity to highlight great things about Ellinwood every month.”

Baird listed five reasons why Ellinwood is a great place to call home:

Topping the list is the safety and cleanliness of the community.

“I love that we live in a community where you feel safe to take a walk and parents can feel safe letting their children ride bikes and take walks with friends” she said. “Our city crew also goes above and beyond to keep our community looking good. The city crew takes great pride in our community. We have a wonderful friendly policy department that watches over us.”

Next, is the focus on faith and a strong Christian presence. “I love that we have several churches and that they work together to better our community,” she said. “At Christmas there are many nativity displays in yards. It is obvious as you drive through you can see the importance of Christ in our community.”

Next, is the friendliness of the people living there. “Our community is very friendly,” she said. “I love the

atmosphere when you are in a local store of the store owners and shoppers. The Chamber does a good job of having activities for Ellinwood that brings in visitors and local Ellinwood people. It is always great to visit with all those in attendance. Our community is also outstanding for coming together when someone needs extra help. Community fundraisers are put together to help those in need and our community is always willing to give a helping hand to help a neighbor or a stranger.”

The downtown as well as other places of business indicate a growing and thriving community. “The owners of our Ellinwood businesses have a heart for Ellinwood and I am beyond grateful,” she said. “We are blessed to have a grocery store, packing plant, hospital, floral store, fun stores to shop in, convenience stores, general store, liquor store and many more. Every time you walk into one of the businesses you are greeted by name with a smile from an employee and that is heart-warming. They are grateful for your business and truly care about your shopping experience. Our businesses in our community cover many of the needs in of Ellinwood. These business are also always willing to help sponsor community and school events. They are so important to our community.”

Finally, it’s a fun place to live with a lot to do, she said. “Ellinwood is full of community events throughout the year that have fun activities,” she said.

“One of my favorites is the After Harvest Festival. I love the excitement within the community and the welcome flags that greet attendees. Alumni and friends come back during this time like a huge reunion. There are many other activities that are offered throughout the year by organizations, clubs, churches, the school, and businesses. These activities are very well attended by our community and is a great opportunity to catch up with fellow members of Ellinwood while offering support.”

AHF has such a history, it’s the backbone of the Chamber.

Get the Right Care in the Right Place

When you need prompt medical attention, whether your condition is minor or serious, we have the care teams to meet your needs. Experts at the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic at St. Rose Medical Pavilion provide high-quality care for minor and sprains. No appointment is necessary. And for serious or life-threatening conditions, our Emergency Department at Great Bend Campus provides excellent care around the clock.

Learn more about where to go for the care you need at KansasHealthSystem.com/GreatBend.

Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic

St. Rose Medical Pavilion 3515 Broadway Ave. Great Bend, KS 67530 620-792-2511

Monday-Friday: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Emergency Department

Great Bend Campus

514 Cleveland St. Great Bend, KS 67530 620-792-8833 Open 24/7