Technology Tactics - Great Bend Chamber of Commerce

www.greatbend.org
A Monthly Publication of the Great Bend Chamber
of Commerce and Economic Development
July 2010 • Volume 89, No. 6
Technology Tactics
Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau Uses GPS Technology to
Educate Visitors About National Wetlands & Wildlife Scenic Byway
A
s I mounted the GPS ranger on the inside of my front windshield, it occurred to
me that I could be getting ready to waste the next few hours of my day taking a
gps-guided tour through an area that I know like the back of my hand. I was born here.
I grew up here. My job revolves around knowing every little detail about the community and all that it has to offer.
Little did I know that I was about to learn more about the area's historical and cultural reputation in three hours than
I had learned in an entire lifetime as a resident.
In late June, I had the opportunity to take advantage of a new program being offered by the Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau. The program allows residents and visitors alike to check out a GPS ranger from the Visitors
Bureau office and take a self-guided tour through the National Wetlands & Wildlife Scenic Byway. The byway,
which was designated as such only recently, is a scenic tourist route that encompasses many of the communities
surrounding Great Bend. In the following paragraphs, I will give you a glimpse into some of the many wonders I
discovered with the help of my technological tour guide.
Nature Conservancy
The first leg of the tour took me north from Great Bend through Hoisington to the Nature Conservancy. Here, the
GPS tour guide told stories of Native American influence in the plains region, and used colorful Indian stories to
segway from one piece of information to the next. Facts about the types and number of bird species that visit the
conservancy are illustrated with pictures and video clips displayed on the screen.
Kansas Wetlands Education Center
From the Nature Conservancy, the GPS tour guide provided step-by-step instructions for how to follow the scenic
byway, which then takes you past the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. While en route, the GPS provided theories
about prehistoric wildlife that may have he region was underwater during the prehistoric era. "The GPS tour is a
great way to recruit potential visitors to the center," says KWEC Educator Curtis Wolf. "The Center is a great supplement to the tour, as our staff can provide visitors with an even deeper look into the way the area has evolved."
Continued on Page 2
July 2010 • p2
A monthly publication of the
1125 Williams,
Great Bend, KS 67530
Phone: 620-792-2401
Fax: 620-792-2404
E-mail: [email protected]
Web address: www.greatbend.org
Rachel Mawhirter, Editor
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chairman
Gene Dikeman, Farmers Bank & Trust NA
Vice Chairman
Ron Straub, Straub International
2nd Vice Chairman
Chad Somers, Benefit Management Inc.
Immediate Past Chairman
Dan Brungardt, USD 428
Treasurer
Jason Mayers, Adams Brown Beran & Ball Chtd.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Erika Brining
CPI Qualified Plan Consultants
Mary Foley
JC Penney
Jeff Fry
Southard Corporation
Mike Gordy
Doonan Specialized Trailer
Tammy Hammond
Rosewood Services
Matt Hoisington
C&V Home Improvement
John Jackson
Agricultural Management Group
Jeff Keller
Keller Real Estate & Insurance Agency
Julie Kramp
Barton Community College
Curt Mauler
L&M Contractors
Dr. Russ McCaulley
10th Street Eyecare Center
Steve Pringle
Central Power Systems
Kyle Roberts
Schendel Pest Control
Chris Shepard
Watkins Calcara Chtd.
Kim Vink
Coldwell Banker Sell Real Estate
Lance Walters
McDonald Tank
EX-OFFICIO
Lynda Jamison, Ambassadors Chairman
Cris Collier, Great Bend CVB
Dr. Carl Heilman, Barton Community College
Ken Roberts, City of Great Bend
Dr. Tom Vernon, USD #428
Jennifer Schartz, Barton County Commission
Sen. Ruth Teichman
Rep. Bill Wolf
CHAMBER STAFF
Jan Peters, President/CEO
[email protected]
Lacey Oetken, Office/Business Manager
[email protected]
Lori Waters, Membership Services Director
[email protected]
Rachel Mawhirter, Marketing Coordinator
[email protected]
Kristy Rupe, Economic Development Projects Assistant
[email protected]
The “Outlook Business Journal” is printed by the
Great Bend Tribune, Great Bend, KS
Technology Tactics
(cont.)
Mount Pleasant Church
In one of the most remote areas of the tour, nestled one mile
off the byway is Mount Pleasant Church, a quaint historic chapel
built over 100 years ago. Just one of the many detours from the
byway, this leg of the journey provided information about plants
used for medicinal purposes by Indian tribes who lived in the
area. As I reached the church itself, the tour guide also touched
on the area's architecture and where its influences originated.
Quivira Wildlife Refuge
This leg of the journey was probably one of the most educational for yours truly. Despite having grown up somewhat engrossed
in the natural habitat of this area, the GPS tour guide creatively
told about local plants and wildlife from a Native American perspective through colorful stories and illustrations.
Detours to Hudson Flour Mill/ Historic Stafford Buildings
Before the tour concluded, the GPS provided me the opportunity to take a small detour from its guided route to visit the Hudson flour mill and the historic buildings in Stafford. This detour
only added about 30 minutes to the total length of the tour, and
was well worth the added time.
Great Bend
Beautiful Byway - "This is just one of the many beautiful photos I
snapped while on the GPS-guided tour of the National Wetlands &
Wildlife Scenic Byway," says Chamber Marketing Coordinator Rachel
Mawhirter. "I probably took a lot longer on the tour than necessary,
because I had kept stopping to photograph the natural beauty all
around me."
One of the most obviously advantageous parts of the guided tour became apparent when I was on the drive back to Great Bend
from Stafford County. During this leg of the trip, the GPS provided all sorts of information about Great Bend's businesses, its attractions, and its culture. Video clips from events in Jack Kilby Square portray the community as lively and energetic, and descriptions
of the area's architecture peaked my curiosity. As I finally pulled back into town, I started to pay attention to many of the wonderful
things the tour had mentioned: the quilt walk in Jack Kilby Square, the murals on the sides of downtown buildings, and the brickwork on the buildings. All of these have been here since long before I came into this world, but most had gone unnoticed.
I would encourage everyone, residents and visitors alike, to take advantage of this unique GPS tour guide system. Our community is the only one in the nation with a sophisticated byway tourguide system of this caliber, which wouldn't have been possible
without the dedicated efforts of Cris Collier and the Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau. Having personally visited and
enjoyed each of the stops on the tour, I am confident in saying that this technology has changed the way I perceive this community
that I love so dearly. Let it change yours too...
By: Rachel Mawhirter, Marketing Coordinator for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development
Summer Fun!
Outlook Business Journal
Check Out These Other Resources for Things to Do in the Area:
Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.visitgreatbend.com
Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development, www.greatbend.org
Barton County Historical Society, www.bartoncountymuseum.org
Golden Belt Community Concert Association, www.goldenbeltcca.org
Barton Community College, www.bartonccc.edu
City of Great Bend Web Site, www.greatbendks.net
Wetlands at Great Bend, www.wetlandsatgb.com
Barton County Arts Council, www.bartonarts.org
Great Bend Community Theatre, www.gbct.net
July 2010 • p3
Indoor Clean Air Act
How This Will Affect Your Business
Just as Americans celebrate our Independence Day
every July 4th, public health advocates are commemorating the new Kansas smoke-free law, effective July
1, 2010, giving everyone in Kansas clean indoor air at
public places including worksites, restaurants, and bars.
To help businesses and worksites comply with the law,
free no-smoking signs, brochures about the law, and table tents will be distributed by the Barton County Health Department. Interested persons are
encouraged to contact Janel Rose at 620-793-1902 or [email protected] to
request materials needed. For more information about the law see the website
at www.kssmokefree.org .
To encourage county residents to patronize local businesses on July 1 - July
5, Barton County Health Department Chronic Disease Risk Reduction program
plans to hold a drawing on July 1 for $10 gift certificates good at any Great
Bend Chamber of Commerce participating business for community members
who register at the health department from June 23—30. The CDRR program
also plans to promote businesses who are smoke-free with a radio campaign
that will run just prior to and during that time period and will encourage the
public to visit their favorite locations and try some new spots too.
The health department is also encouraging businesses to offer “Fresh Air Specials” on July 1 or from July 1-5 to encourage patrons to come to the business
during the opening days of a new era in Kansas. The specials could be anything
owners or operators want and could be posted or advertised however they like.
Everything from ½ price appetizer with dinner purchase to a free beverage
with meal purchase, to a new dish or concoction to especially mark the occasion
would work for a “Fresh Air Special”.
Janel Rose, Barton County Public Health Educator, said “Kansas has made
a giant leap in ensuring the health of this generation and generations to come
by protecting its residents from the damaging effects of secondhand smoke.
Most people don’t realize that nearly 400 non-smoking adult Kansans die from
secondhand smoke exposure every year.”
The Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act directs that worksites, bars, and restaurants
shall be smoke-free, that no-smoking signs be posted, and outlines fines for
business owner/operators and smokers in violation of the law. Employees with
respiratory illnesses will no longer place themselves in harm’s way by going
to work. Parents of children, who have respiratory illnesses like asthma, will
no longer need to pick and choose safe locations for family dining. They will
have the freedom to select any restaurant knowing that they are protecting their
children’s health. Statistics from other cities and states predict that there will be
fewer heart attacks in our state as a result of our smoke free law, there will be
less employee absenteeism and greater overall productivity. All of these benefits affect everyone. Join in celebrating Smoke-Free Kansas from July 1-July 5.
For more information, visit www.kssmokefree.org or contact the Barton County
Health Department.
WELCOME to these NEW Chamber Members
Keller Real Estate - Ratbun, Jr.
Sue's BBQ
Wayne Ratbun, Jr.
P.O. Box 945
Great Bend, KS 67530
(620) 282-8918
Category: Real Estate
TJ & Sue Roberts
205 W. 10th Street
Ellinwood, KS 67530
(620) 564-3354
Category: Catering/Restaurant
Big Brothers Big Sisters Introduces New
Executive Director, Stephanie Joiner
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Barton & Pawnee Counties, (BBBS), is pleased to announce
the hire of a new Executive Director, Stephanie Joiner. Joiner began her position with
BBBS in mid-June.
Joiner comes to BBBS from Pittsburg, KS where she has been the Program Director
for the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas for the last three years. Originally,
from Edmond, OK, Joiner received her Bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State
University, and completed her Master’s Degree from Pittsburg State University. She has
had over 12 years of experience working with youth through various education and
youth programs.
“I am excited to become a part of the Barton and Pawnee County communities. This
is our home now, and as such I want to contribute as much as I can to it,” Joiner states.
David Sherman, West Regional Director for Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters states:
“Stephanie will do great things for the communities of Barton and Pawnee County. She
brings the right combination of passion, leadership skills and experience to continue to
grow the program and take it to the next level. The need is great and these are challenging times for any nonprofit agency but Stephanie sees opportunity where others
may see obstacles. More children need our services then ever and Stephanie is bound
and determined to see that their needs are met.”
Previous Executive Director Dana Murphey served BBBS for the last four years, and
resigned her position to spend more time with her family. “Filling Dana’s shoes will be
a tall order, I hope that I can bring the same amount of heart to this position as she
has,” states Joiner.
Sherman agrees: “Dana has been and will continue to be a tremendous advocate for
the children of Barton and Pawnee Counties. She brought stability and visibility to the
agency during her four years of service as the director of BBBS of Barton and Pawnee
Counties. Under her leadership, the number of children served by the agency has doubled. I appreciate all that Dana has done for us and am happy to see her afforded the
opportunity to spend more time at home.”
Joiner encourages anyone who would like more information about becoming a Big or
Little to contact the office at 1-888-KS4BIGS, (620)793-5887, or [email protected].
For more information about the impact mentoring is having in the state of Kansas and
in your area, visit www.kansasbigs.org
Heartland Center for Spirituality
Offers Two Summer Programs
A Sacred Cup of Blessing
July 10, 2010 - 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Cost $25 (Lunch Included)
Anyone thirsting for a more intimate life of prayer will find a rich well-spring in this
retreat based on Joyce Rupp's book, "The Cup of Our Life a Guide for Spiritual Growth".
Discover how ordinary cups that we use each day can become symbols that connect us to
life and draw us closer to God. There will be time for sharing, reflection, meditation, and
journaling. Bring your favorite cup to use in this retreat and share with the rest of the
group.
Directed Retreat
Sunday, July 25 - Saturday, July 31
Cost $450 (Includes Lodging, Meals, & Cost of Spiritual Guidance)
Come and be drawn into a deeper relationship with Christ through this silent, directed
retreat. Retreatants will be invited to pray with scripture based on the Spiritual Exercises
of St. Ignatius. Each day you will meet with a spiritual director to reflect on your times of
prayer. There will also be a time for worship/prayer each day with the others on retreat.
Accommodations are at Heartland Center for Spirituality, a ministry of the Dominican
Sisters of Peace in Great Bend. Heartland Center provides a quiet, peaceful atmosphere
and pleasant grounds/garden area. Retreatants will have private rooms and use a shared
bathroom. For more information or registration please visit our website, www.heartlandspirituality.org or contact Brenda Black at 620-792-1232.
July 2010 • p4
Community Theatre Hires New Director
The Great Bend Community Theatre has been undergoing a transition over the past
year that will continue over the next. Long-time Artistic Director and Theatre
Manager Warren Deckert is relocating to the Kansas City area and Sally O’Connor has
been hired in that position.
O’Connor retired in 2009 after teaching for 30 years in the USD 428 school system.
She comes with considerable experience in theatre. For approximately half of her
teaching career she was the director of the GBHS Theatre Department. Her undergraduate as well as graduate work was in the fields of speech, theatre, oral interpretation, and English. She holds BSE and MA degrees.
O’Connor is excited about the position and is pleased that the GBCT Board of
Directors has placed their confidence in her. She said she “owes a debt of gratitude to
Warren Deckert for all of his training and advice over the past months - he is a major
reason for the ongoing success of the local theatre.”
O’Connor’s focus will be to maintain the quality of work that the community has
come to expect of the local theatre. Her philosophy is that as a community theatre,
productions that occur at the Crest are ensemble productions. In other words, she
said, “Community Theatre is presented for the enjoyment of the community by members of the community. We hope to continue using our base of volunteers and
expand in the future. In Community Theatre everyone is important, directors, actors,
stage crew, ushers... everyone comes together to provide a quality theatre experience. It should be enjoyable for every person involved as well as the audience.”
"This Week in Kansas" Debuts on KAKE
Starting in early June, KAKE-TV launched a new public
affairs program called “This Week in Kansas”. Hosted by wellknown local journalist Tim Brown, this half-hour program will
review the major political events and issues in our state every
week. Frequent guests throughout the year will include newsmakers, legislators, politicians and journalists.
“This Week in Kansas” builds upon the foundation KAKE
started back in 1954”, said KAKE VP/General Manager Dan
Wall. “It’s further evidence of our dedication to imaginative
local programming, distinguished news coverage and leadership in community service.”
“In addition, we couldn’t be happier to secure Tim Brown as host of “This Week in
Kansas”. His track record of providing thoughtful, comprehensive discussion of the
issues facing Kansans is well-known from his days on KPTS.”
“This Week in Kansas” will air on the KAKEland Television stations in Kansas –
KAKE-10 Wichita; KUPK-13 Garden City; KLBY-4 Colby; K51GC-51 Salina; K30GD30 Great Bend; K25CV-25 Hays and K38GH-38 Russell.
About Tim Brown
Tim Brown has worked in television for the past 21 years. During that time, Tim has
won numerous awards for journalistic excellence.
Tim started as an intern at Oklahoma City television station KOCO where he helped
break a story that received national attention and recognition from Oklahoma Governor
Henry Bellmon. The story uncovered ties between the Church of Scientology and
Narcanon, a drug treatment center opened on Indian land in Oklahoma. State officials
didn’t know of the link before granting permission for the treatment facility to open.
From KOCO, Tim traveled to Lawton, Oklahoma to work as a reporter/anchor at
KSWO. After a brief stint at KSWO, Tim was hired at KWWL in Waterloo, Iowa to
be the bureau chief for KWWL in the largest city in the market in Cedar Rapids.
Tim was then hired in Wichita, first at KSN, and then KWCH where he was nominated for multiple Emmy awards and received several awards for news coverage.
Tim left the commercial television business in 2000 to work in the non-profit world.
In 2004, Tim helped produce, shoot, edit and co-host “Minding Your Own Business; the
Kansas Entrepreneur.” Since 2006, Tim has produced and hosted "Kansas Week" at
KPTS.
Great Lakes Airlines Hosts Second
Annual Food Drive During July
Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd. (OTC Bulletin Board: GLUX.OB – news) is
helping in the battle to fight hunger with their 2nd Annual “Flying 4
Food” campaign to benefit the Community Food Bank of Barton
County in Great Bend.
Did you know that 1 in 8 Americans are at risk for hunger? From
children and seniors to the working poor, millions of Americans are
either hungry or nearing hunger. Today many public food-assistance
programs and private organizations strive to meet the nutritional needs of these vulnerable Americans. Great Lakes Airlines and the Community Food Bank of Barton
County are asking for your help.
Throughout the month of July, bring a non-perishable food item to the Great Lakes
counter and you will be eligible to win one of 4 round trip tickets between Great Bend
and Denver. Donate as much as you like, however only one entry per person / per
week is permitted. Donations will be accepted Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5
p.m. at the Great Bend Municipal Airport, 9047 6th Street. Weekend hours are limited. Please contact Great Lakes’ Regional Sales Manager, Kassi Mohlenkamp at 307432-7018 with any questions.
Great Lakes is providing scheduled passenger service at 59 airports in fifteen states
with a fleet of Embraer EMB-120 Brasilias and Raytheon/Beech 1900D regional airliners. A current route map may be viewed at http://www.flygreatlakes.com/route_map/
route_map.htm.
For additional information about Great Lakes Airlines, visit www.flygreatlakes.com.
Mark Your Calendars!
Membership Drive Scheduled August 6, 2010
Mark your calendars! On August 6, 2010, Chamber Board members and
Ambassadors will be gathering for a Chamber membership drive from 8 a.m. to 5
p.m. at The Club at StoneRidge. Five teams of Chamber representatives will be visiting area businesses and organizations in an attempt to attract and retain new
Chamber members.
"Our last membership drive was over five years ago, and Great Bend has experienced a lot of growth since that time," says Chamber Membership Services
Director Lori Waters. "Our goal is to bring back members who have dropped in the
past and to recruit new member businesses with the help of our board members
and ambassadors."
Since the last membership drive, the Chamber board of directors and staff have
greatly expanded the list of free services available to Chamber members. Today
more than ever, businesses can appreciate the value of a Chamber membership.
"Our member services help businesses save money in the long run," Waters says.
"Using our marketing services and networking opportunities are much more cost
effective than trying to reach the same audience elsewhere."
Another huge benefit of Chamber membership isn't always measurable right off
the bat. According to a 2007 survey conducted by an Atlanta, GA-based research
company suggests that consumers prefer to shop with Chamber-affiliated businesses. After polling 2,000 randomly selected consumers, the study found that consumers who knew the business was a Chamber
member were 63% more likely to return
to do more business.
For more information or to provide
contact info for a potential new
member, contact Waters, 620-7922401 or [email protected].
July 2010 • p5
Healtheir Communities Coalition Seeks Small Business Administration Funding
Responses in Community Survey
Available to Support Job Creation
A 2006 Great Bend High School graduate has returned home with the
expertise to help Central Kansas Medical Center with one of its current projects. Megan Hammeke is the intern helping with the Healthy Communities
Coalition (HCC) survey. The hospital is a member of the HCC and taking a
lead role in coordinating the survey that seeks to identify physical-activity
and nutrition needs in Barton, Pawnee, Rush and Stafford counties.
“Our goal is to get the survey into as many hands as possible,” Hammeke
said. “We want to get out into the community and make it easy for people to
respond to the questions.”
Hammeke and Julie Shields, CKMC manager of volunteers, will visit senior centers, making presentations about the survey and distributing brochures. “We will have hard copies of the surveys at
the senior centers,” Hammeke said. “They will be able to fill them out right on the spot.”
The survey also will soon be available at ckmc.org and on the Golden Belt Community
Foundation, Chamber of Commerce and Barton County Health Department websites. Hard copies
will be on hand at county health departments and at the Barton County Fair. “We just want this to
be as convenient as possible for everyone,” Hammeke said. “It will not take too much time to complete.”
Wichita State University is putting the finishing touches on the questions and ensuring they are
translated correctly into Spanish, Hammeke noted. Mary Klinge, CKMC’s executive director of mission integration and compliance, said the HCC wants to understand the health needs in the area.
“We would like to know more about people’s perceptions of how healthy their communities are
now and learn how they can be healthier in the future,” Klinge said. “Our survey findings will help
us direct education and resources to where they are most needed.”
For example, the coalition wants to know about access to fruits and vegetables, and venues for
walking and other exercise. “Megan will help us meet these goals,” Klinge said. “She has been here
a short time but has already been a great help. Megan has been calling utility companies, asking
them to enclose a flyer in their next billings to encourage people to go online and complete the
survey.
“Megan is young and enthusiastic, and eager to get to work distributing surveys and inputting
data when they are returned to us,” Klinge added. “She and Julie Shields will be great representatives. We hope their enthusiasm is contagious.”
Hammeke recently earned a degree in health and human performance, with an emphasis in
health promotion and wellness from Fort Hays State University. The Golden Belt Community
Foundation applied for and received the $17, 560 Kansas Health Foundation grant that is financing
the survey on behalf of the HCC. The HCC includes health departments, schools, hospitals, scouting
organizations, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the United Way.
The grant will finance expenses including printing, data entry and travel within the four counties.
The HCC has contracted with the WSU Center for Economic Development and Business Research
for help with formulating some questions, analyzing the data and providing a written synopsis
when the project is complete. For more information or to do your part by completing the community survey, visit www.ckmc.org and click on the "Healther Communities Survey" link at the top
right.
Satellite Pros Recognized as One of Top
500 Dish Network Dealers Nationwide
Satellite Pros, located at 1520 Main Street in downtown Great Bend, has been recognized as one of Dish
Network's top-selling dealers. With over 10,000 dealers
nationwide, this prestigious honor places Satellite Pros in
the top 5% of its competitors.
"I am very proud of all that Shaun has accomplished over the last
few years," says Satellite Pros co-owner Jaime Hutchinson. "He has worked
very hard to get the business established in the community, and definitely deserves
the recognition he's receiving from Dish Network."
Satellite Pros is an authorized dealer for Dish Network and DirecTV satellite companies, as well as the largest retailer of Mitsubishi, Atachi, Samsung, and Sony televisions
in the area. For more information, stop in to see Shawn or Trent and all three of the
Satellite Pros showrooms at 16th & Main in downtown Great Bend.
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced in mid-June the availability
of funding to support economic development and job creation through existing
regional clusters. As part of its Regional Cluster Initiative, SBA will accept proposals from local and regional cluster initiatives beginning July 7 for funding of
up to $600,000 per cluster to support up to 15 projects across the country.
Proposals should be submitted by the cluster's coordinating entity.
SBA's Regional Cluster Initiative focuses on accelerating small business growth
and job creation through clusters that leverage and align a region's economic,
business, and workforce assets. Regional clusters are networks of organizations
and businesses in a geographic area that grow through increased collaboration,
efficiency, and innovation.
"Clusters bring together many businesses and organizations in a region to maximize the economic strengths of that region, enhancing its ability to compete on a
national and global scale," SBA Administrator Karen Mills says. "SBA is committed to providing both financial and technical assistance resources that can be a
catalyst for accelerating a regional cluster's viability and lead to sustainable economic growth and job creation."
SBA is launching two programs within its REgional Cluster Initiative: Regional
Innovation Clusters (RICs) and Advanced Defense Technologies (ADTs).
Prospective offerors for both solicitations may find additional information
through the Federal Business Opportunities web site, www.fedbizopps.gov. More
information about RICs and ADTs may also be found by visiting the SBA web
site, www.sba.gov.
Rosewood Services Reflects on
First Annual Benefit Trail Ride
Trail riders are a hardy bunch, and this unflappable quality was shown in fine form
at the recent Rosewood Trail Ride at the Rosewood Horse Ranch. Despite rugged conditions that would make most folks hang up their chaps, spurs and hats, the Rosewood
Riders rode it out! Kansas weather is unpredictable, and so it was, again, the day of
the ride. Beautiful weather had been ordered by the chief Trail Boss Eric Hammond
(Manager of the Ranch and Certified Instructor from North American Riding for the
Handicapped Association, NARHA). And it WAS a beautiful day, until the wind started.
In spite of heat, high humidity and, of course, wind that would blow most folks right
off their horses, the Rosewood Riders stayed on their trusty steeds and fun was had by
all!
The 30 participants moseyed along country roads with beautiful scenery for their
eight-mile ride. The group’s destination was a beautiful pond in a lush, secluded pasture surrounded by trees. The group had down-time for some well-deserved R&R at
the pond before meanderin’ back to the Ranch for homemade campfire chili and cornbread with all the fixin’s. Terry Fellers entertained the folks with some great guitar
music. There were a few casualties, however: people, horses, dogs, cowboy hats, ball
caps, saddles, hair, manes and tails received a tremendous sand-blasting during the
event! Like bikers say, “you know it’s been a GREAT day when you have sand in your
teeth!"
The Trail Ride was held to benefit Rosewood’s award-winning Therapeutic Riding
Program. Because State funding cuts have impacted the riding program, Rosewood’s
Roots & Wings Foundation wanted to help continue the current level of equestrian
activities for all riders in the program. Deb Smith from Macksville brought in the most
sponsor dollars. Smith is a Case Manager for Rosewood and also served as the “Chief
Chef for the Campfire Chili” (which was a huge hit with the road-weary travelers).
Rosewood’s Therapeutic Riding program was developed by the Hammonds as a way
to encourage persons with disabilities to remain active, enjoy American Quarter
Horses and increase their physical and social abilities.
July 2010 • p6
Kansas Wetlands Education Center
Offers Free Kids Programs
Looking for something for the kids to do during the dog days of summer? Sign them up
for the Kansas Wetlands Education Center summer programs that begin July 1 and run
through July 29. Developed for children ages four through sixth grade, one-hour programs
will be offered at no charge, with age breakdowns of four to seven meeting from 10:30 to
11:30 a.m. and eight to 12 meeting from 2 to 3 p.m. Children age seven and younger
must be accompanied by an adult.
Programs include lots of hands-on learning, with trips outside if at all possible. Please
dress children in old clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen, insect repellant and water.
Each program will include activities, games and/or a craft and sometimes a story.
Programs are presented at no charge, but donations for supplies are appreciated.
There is no minimum number for programs but the maximum capacity is 20 per class.
Pre-registration is required by calling the Center at 620-786-7456 or toll free, 877-2439268. Registration deadlines are one week before the class. Programs, dates and registration deadlines are listed below:
“Insect Expedition” – July 8, with registration due July 2. Creepy, crawly insects are
everywhere. We’ll search for insects in the air, water and ground and find the amazing
diversity among these small but mighty creatures. Kids will make a cage for an insect
specimen.
“Extraordinary Eggs” – July 15, with registration due July 9. Discover the variety and
wonder of eggs. From butterfly to ostrich eggs, all serve the same purpose – to protect
the developing organism. Participants will decorate an egg.
“Animal Mimics” – July 22, with registration due July 16. Deception is the tactic many
animals use to avoid danger. Discover how animals and plants confuse their enemies,
from look alikes to camouflage.
“Go Fishing” – July 29, with registration due July 23. “One fish, two fish, red fish, blue
fish” begins the familiar Dr. Suess book that speaks to the immense variety of fish. The
most numerous of vertebrates, kids will investigate the different fish found in Cheyenne
Bottoms and design a fish of their own.
Kansas Visitors Guide Now Selling
Listings for Upcoming Publication
Listings are now available in the 2011-2012 edition of the Kansas Visitors
Guide. Businesses who would like to receive a listing in this state-wide tourism magazine need to travelks.com and order today. These brief listings
include a detailed description of your business and the products/services you
provide. Listings are just $120 and help ensure that your business is placed in
front of thousands of Kansas visitors in 2011 and 2012. Listings can be purchased by credit card or invoice. For more information or to purchase a listing,
visit www.travelks.com.
It's All in the Game!
Barton County Fair July 7-11
Making plans for the summer? Don't forget to
put Barton County Fair on your schedule.
Wednesday July 7 thru Sunday July 11, there
promises to be something to entertain all ages. Start your
day with a trip through each of the Expo buildings and see the different exhibits. Expo
I features commercial exhibits as well as "The Block Stackers". The Block Stackers are a
local group that will be building a scaled replica of famous buildings using over 10,000
wooden blocks. Continue on to Expo II where local 4-H and open class exhibitors will
be displaying their many projects. Expo III will be an active zone with all the livestock
pens filled to capacity with pigs, goats, rabbits, sheep, ducks, geese and cows. Take the
opportunity to get up close and personal with these barnyard natives.
The fair is pleased to feature entertainment each evening that caters to many different
tastes. The carnival will light up the nights as the concerts fill the air with music.
Thursday starts with Tribute Night. "7 Bridges Road" will be performing Eagles hits for
the rock and roll enthusiasts. Friday brings top country star Easton Corbin to the stage
with special guest Logan Mize. Saturday rounds out the fun with Christian artist Mark
Schultz. Tickets are on sale now at www.bartoncountyfair.com.
Sunday concludes the festivities with the 53rd annual 4-H Beef Barbeque. Contact
you favorite 4-Her or the Barton County Extension Office for your tickets now. Make
sure to visit www.bartoncountyfair.com for all the details.
CKMC Wins Transplant Network Award
While 35 percent is deemed a success, Central Kansas Medical Center has
achieved a 50-percent rating with the Midwest Transplant Network. The percentage reflects the number of eligible tissue donors who actually become donors,
explained the MTN’s Belinda Werth, R.N.
The hospital was recently rewarded for its efforts. “We wanted to recognize
CKMC’s achievement with this award,” Werth commented. “All cardiac deaths
must be reported to us but CKMC excels at spending time to help us screen
patients.
“They are compassionate and professional as they try to find the appropriate
time for our experts to speak with families,” Werth added. “We rely on CKMC’s
staff because of their intuition and expertise in caring for families.”
Currently, there are more than 105,000 people in the United States on the waiting list for an organ. The list is growing quickly, but the number of available
organs isn’t growing as fast, Werth said.
“It is so important to make your wishes known to your loved ones and to have
a document that explains those wishes,” Werth said. “We often hear that a family
won’t consent to organ or tissue donation because they never discussed it with
their loved ones. And, therefore, they don’t know what they would have wanted.”
There are several ways to become a donor. These include signing your driver’s
license; mentioning your intent in a living will and/or durable power of attorney
for healthcare; and visiting the donor registry at the MTN website for more information.
Chamber
2015 16th
P.O. Box 1090
Great Bend
620-792-1779
4107 - 10th Street
792-3591
1811 Main Street
793-7887
Great Bend, Kansas
EVERY 1st THURSDAY OF THE MONTH
AT 11:35 A.M. ON KVGB 1590
Chlumsky
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Great Bend
620-792-1929
Barton Workforce Highlights -
High School Students Gain an Advantage
Are students gaining an advantage or
getting ahead in high school nowadays?
They are if they are involved in either
of Barton Community College’s programs, designed to offer college credits to area high school students.
The College Advantage Program is a jump start to a college education for high
school juniors and seniors. Students in a gifted program with an individualized education plan are also eligible to participate in College Advantage.
High School students have the opportunity to take college courses during their
regular school day. Courses offered vary at the high schools that Barton services.
Barton partners with 17 area school districts to offer College Advantage courses.
Barton’s Get Ahead Program (GAP) is an added opportunity for high school students. These classes are offered on Barton campus where high school students participate alongside other Barton students. Courses have enrollment limits, so it’s suggested that high school students enroll and finalize as soon as possible. In order to
do so, high school students need to get their principal’s approval to enroll in college
classes away from their high school.
If your high school student isn’t involved, but may be illegible for Get Ahead
Program and/or College Advantage, contact either Janet Kirmer at 620-792-9294 or
your local high school counselor for more information regarding these Barton programs.
Program Support –
“I feel it gives them a definite advantage when they do start attending college - whether
it is at BCC or some other college or university. This is just a win-win situation for students,
parents and BCC.” Kay Burns, Guidance Office, Secretary/Registrar - Great Bend High School
"Allowing students to acquire college credit while also fulfilling high school requirements
creates an excitement for advanced and enriched learning. Being able to take these classes
from established faculty also allows students to maximize success in their academic pursuits." Ben Jacobs – Former Hoisington High School Principal/ Current Superintendent of
USD 355 – Ellinwood
Calling All Artists! Promotion
Gives Opportunity to Display Your Work
The Upstage Gallery in Topeka, KS is seeking 2-dimensional artists for upcoming exhibits
in 2010 and 2011. This opportunity is open to all 2-D media including watercolors, oils,
acrylics, drawing, digital work, printmaking, and pastels. Exhibit opportunities will include
1-2 month shows including "First Friday Art Walk" receptions. Submissions will be accepted through email or CD only, with examples of 5-10 works for review suggested. Images
must be submitted in high quality .jpg format of at least 4-6 inches in size. There are no fees
to enter. For more information, contact the Barton County Arts Center at [email protected] or email the Upstage Gallery's Pam Renovato at [email protected].
July 2010 • p7
Sunflower Diversified Services and First
Step Recycling Introduce New Service
A baler at the First Step Recycling plant was getting bound up and a repair technician was called.
It didn’t take long to discover the problem. New
methods of shredding paper had begun cutting
what was once a consistent 7-inch-or-longer strip
into confetti-sized pieces, commonly called crosscut shred. Baling equipment isn’t designed to process such small pieces.
“We were surprised,” said Sarah Krom, community supports coordinator at Sunflower Diversified
Services, which owns and operates First Step. “We
were faced with telling a few customers that we
can no longer accept the tiny, cross-cut shredded
paper because it does not compact into the bale.”
It falls out onto the baler’s tracks and then
turns into a gum-like substance when combined
with grease and other moisture, Krom explained.
At times, it can be almost solid enough that it has
Mobile Shredding - Dennis Rouser
to be chipped out of the tracks.
of Great Bend shreds paper for First
“We tried to notify everyone promptly so that
Step Recycling. Rouser will begin
those who were contemplating shredder purchasworking for the new mobile shredes could determine if they wanted to continue to
ding service at Sunflower Diversified
let us pick up and bale their shredding,” Krom
Services, which owns and operates
said. “It has been a very popular free service
First Step.
offered by the recycling community crew.”
First Step still accepts shredded paper that is consistently more than two inches long from
our drop-off customers as well. In an effort to make the recycling of shredded paper more
convenient, First Step has started a new mobile service for residences and businesses. The
kick-off date is July 1.
“Smaller volumes of personal shredding can be done on-site at your home or business,”
Krom said. “Not only is this convenient for recyclers, it provides more employment opportunities for the people served by Sunflower. We will start our fourth community crew dedicated to recycling.”
Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves people with developmental disabilities in Barton,
Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. “First Step crews are available to bring portable
shredders into your location, or they will shred material in a Sunflower vehicle outside your
location,” Krom said. “We will then take the recyclable shredding to our plant for baling.”
The cost is 40 cents per pound, with volume discounts. The processing plant is located at
Sunflower’s main location, 8823 4th, near the Great Bend Airport. The First Step drop-off
site for the public is at 10th and Hubbard.
“We hope the community takes advantage of this new mobile service,” Krom said. “Our
goals are to make recycling as easy as possible and provide a much-needed community service, while meeting our mission of providing jobs to Sunflower clients. “The people we serve
count on us to give them as many opportunities as possible,” she added. “Earning a paycheck, while contributing as any other working adult, is just one way our clients are productive members of society.”
*
Local Telephone
Long Distance
High-Speed Internet
Technology Solutions
Wireless/Cellular
792-3908
www.nex-tech.com
3705 10th St ., Great Bend
H. MIKE BOYS, LUTCF
H.M. BOYS AGENCY, INC.
1800 Kansas
Great Bend, Kansas
1-800-794-4780
10TH & MAIN
P.O. BOX 1648
GREAT BEND, KANSAS 67530-1648
Office: 620-792-1269
Toll Free: 800-658-1612
Fax: 620-792-1260
E-Mail: [email protected]
Access Anytime: 1-800-MYAMFAM (800-692-6326)
The Club at StoneRidge
Celebrates Drastic Improvements Since New Ownership in 2009
A
fter talking with Dru Lammle, it would be easy to visualize him checking things off his to-do list. New restaurant. Check. Bar and grill. Check
Ladies locker room. Check. Office. Check. Pool. Check.
As co-owner of Stone Ridge Golf Course, Lammle has been on a whirlwind
of renovation. And even though his to-dos will never be complete, he noted
that members like what they see.
Lammle has been concentrating on the clubhouse and pool, while his
brother, Dave Lammle, is focused on the 18-hole golf course.
“When we bought the club 15 months ago,” Dru said, “the greens were half
dead. Dave has turned them around. We immediately gave them nutrients
and water to get them growing again. I have heard long-time members say
the greens have never look so good. Golfers always notice the greens first.
Do they putt nice? Do they hold? Are there bare spots? You won’t find those
problems with Dave.
“I often hear people say ‘how does that guy work so many hours?’ It is just
his nature. Dave has done this all his life,” Dru added. “And he has a green
thumb; he must get that from our grandma who was a wonderful gardener.”
The course has been fertilized and weed killer has been applied. It has a
full-time staff of eight people who work seven days a week during the season.
Great Bend native Steve Gotsche is the golf pro.
As a whole, the club employs 28 people during the golf season and 18 at
other times.
While the golfers have expressed their appreciation for the revived, wellmanicured golf course, Dru said he is hearing from virtually all members that
the club is once again an inviting place to spend time.
“We just started in the clubhouse and went room to room,” Dru recalled.
“First, we took the original lounge, renovated it and opened a new restaurant
called Francesca’s, which is an Italian steakhouse.
“The members have really appreciated this improvement,” Dru continued.
“They like to bring their clients and families here. It is a nice, quiet place to
dine in a relaxing atmosphere. It is an intimate setting.”
The JayCats Bar & Grill also has been renovated for those times when quiet
and relaxing are not on the agenda. JayCats has been upgraded with new
wallpaper, big flat-screen televisions, new carpet and a dance floor. The area
behind the bar has also been remodeled.
“We just wanted to get it up-to-date and be more attractive,” Dru said.
Next came the ladies locker room, with new carpet, wallpaper and some
fixtures. Then the office received a fresh coat of paint. The pool has also been
renovated, and is now open for families and guests.
“The pool is just beautiful now,” Dru said. “We have a great staff of lifeguards who are CPR trained and certified.”
In addition, the on-site fitness center is now part of the membership package;
there is no longer an extra fee for the facility that opens at 5 a.m.
The banquet facility continues to be available for private parties and the popular Sunday brunch.
“The feedback from members has been fabulous,” Dru said. “Members are so
appreciative of the improvements. I have heard people say ‘this is the first time in
years that the air conditioning has worked.’ I have heard some terrible stories.”
In between remodeling projects,
Dru also gave a boost to the golf
and social committees. The result
has been a resurgance in clubsponsored activities.
For example, the Men’s Golf
League has gone from an average Tuesday night crowd of
30 to more than 50; the Ladies
Golf Association has increased its membership; and the
Ladies Bridge Group is meeting
regularly.
Behind the Scenes - Club owner Dru Lammle works
with Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Tomlin to review
employee time cards during payroll processing. “There is a
lot that goes into running a country club,” says Lammle. “It
was imperative that I bring someone in to help me on the
administrative side when I’m not around, and Elizabeth
is doing just that.” Not pictured is General Manager Mark
Hernandez.
Special events have included a
member-guest golf tournament,
Casino Night, Comedian Night,
the New Year’s Eve Party, Super
Bowl Party, Chili Cook-off and
Tax Relief Day with a deejay,
“which really packed ‘em in.”
The Friday Summer Rib Fest
will begin again soon.
JayCats - Club members enjoy a friendly game of poker
while watching the U.S. Open on one of the four flag
screen tvs in JayCats Bar & Grill. “The bar is a popular place
for club members to hang out after a day of golfing,” says
bartender Omar Acosta. “It’s a very laid back atmosphere.”
“These kinds of things are important,” Dru commented. “Our
members are quality people and
we want to provide them with
services. That is what they pay
for.”
Exercise Environment - A StoneRidge patron utilizes one of
the many pieces of equipment available to club members
free of charge. This facility opens at 5 a.m. daily.
Currently, Dave is starting to
update the golf course water
system to digital, instead of
manual; and the next goal is
updating the complete irrigation system.
“We are dealing with a 40- to 50-year-old irrigation system. It is a tedious job, replacing all the sprinkler heads,” Dru said. “But we have been
fortunate. We have had some wonderful rains and didn’t come close to
using our water allocation.”
If it sounds like Dru and Dave know what they are doing, it is because
they have many years of experience. They grew up in Peru, Neb., which
helps them understand smaller communities. Both went to college in
Peru, and then it was off to Omaha and then Lincoln, where they started
in the golf business.
“Dave and I have built two golf courses from scratch,” Dru said. “One
was a 27-hole public course, the other an 18-hole private. We owned and
managed them both in Lincoln. I am still involved in one of them.”
The Lammles bought the club on May 1, 2009, when it had 165 members. As a result of the ongoing membership drive, that number is up to
275.
July 2010 • p8
Clubhouse - Pictured is the outside of the clubhouse at the Club at StoneRidge. Inside these facilities are a pro shop, banquet facilities,
meeting rooms, a bar and grill, a work-out facility and locker rooms, and a restaurant.
“Ideally, a private club with an 18-hole golf course would have 325 to
350 members,” Dru said. “That is a goal. Because of attrition, it is always a balancing act.”
Continued on Page 10
July 2010 • p9
July 2010 • p10
The Club at StoneRidge
Continued from Page 9
Special membership prices are still in effect, and the Lammles are eager to talk
with anyone interested in joining.
“We start by finding out what their needs are – whether they play golf or not,”
Dru said. “They are welcome to come in and talk about the variety of membership
packages. This gives us a chance to show them the facilities, and they can meet us
and realize we are professionals in this business.”
The owners also are aware that their facility can be an economic-development asset to the entire community.
“This community has a need for a private club,” Dru commented. “When new
businesses consider Great Bend, we are often competing with larger cities. So this is
a plus, with golf, swimming, fitness, dining and social functions.
“We also are giving back to the community by donating to local charitable
events,” he added, noting Stone Ridge wants to be a good corporate citizen. “When
we are able to make money, we are re-investing in the facility and in the community.”
Dru’s ongoing goal is to not only know members’ names but to be able to put
those names with faces.
“I want to get to know them and listen to what they want,” Dru said. “I want to
learn about the things they used to enjoy about the club. We are simply rebuilding
what they were so happy with years ago. We listen. This is not a dictatorship.”
Brief history of StoneRidge
Summer Fun - Kids splash in the StoneRidge swimming pool, located immediately
behind the clubhouse. "The pool is probably one of the areas where the changes
we've made are immediately evident," says Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Tomlin.
"We've really cleaned up the whole pool area, and are hoping to have the concession
stand back open before the end of the summer."
Brunch Time - StoneRidge patrons enjoy a buffet brunch in
the banquet room inside the clubhouse.
Pro Shop - Steve Gotsche assists a customer in the pro
shop, located inside the club house at StoneRidge.
The Great Bend Petroluem Club was incorporated in
March 1951. The clubhouse used to be located at 1318
Kansas.
The current facility was constructed in 1979, which
was the same year it became an 18-hole course, instead
of only nine. Dru and Dave Lammle bought the club in
May 2009; its name is now Stone Ridge Golf Course.
On the Green - Two couples take part in the StoneRidge Couples Golf Tournament that took place in late June. "Obviously one of the most popular of our member services is our golf," says owner Dru Lammle.
"Green fees add up pretty quick for people who golf regularly, so a membership is always recommended."
Department of Revenue Announces New
Filing Requirements for State Taxes­
In accordance with Senate Bill 430 passed by the 2010 Kansas Legislature and subsequently signed into law by the Governor, businesses will be required to submit Retailers’
Sales, Compensating Use, and Withholding Tax returns electronically. This new law
takes effect July 1, 2010. To ensure a smooth transition for Kansas businesses the Kansas
Department of Revenue (KDOR) will continue to provide paper forms as needed
through September 30, 2010. PLEASE NOTE: After September 30, 2010, KDOR will no
longer have printed paper forms available for distribution. If you have questions about
this new law, please contact our office at the address or phone number shown above.
Kansas offers several electronic filing solutions. You can use WebTax for online filing
and payment for most business tax accounts. First, create a user login ID and select a
password then attach your business tax accounts. Each tax account has a unique
Personal Identification Number (PIN) that only needs to be entered once. This PIN binds
your account to your login ID. For future filings, you simply log into your account using
your self-selected user login and password. A history of all returns filed or payments
made is retained in WebTax.
You can also use the telephone to file returns and make payments for several tax
accounts. Like WebTax, you will need a PIN to access the correct tax account. The telephone option requires that you use this PIN each time you file or make payment. For
your PIN assignment, call our Electronic Services staff at 1-800-525-3901. If you prefer
you may e-mail Electronic Services at [email protected]. Payments are made
through EFT transfer (ACH Debit or ACH Credit) on or before the due date. Credit card
payments are also accepted through third-party vendors. Visit our web site at webtax.
org for a current list of vendors and their services.
The online WebTax application and the telephone filing options are simple, safe, and
FREE and conveniently available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You also receive immediate confirmation that your return is filed.
Mayor Signs ADA Anniversary Proclamation
On Friday, June 4, 2010, City of Great Bend Mayor, Mike Allison, signed the proclamation to recommit Great Bend to its principles of equality and inclusion and to
reaffirm its determination to attain a community that affords independence, justice,
and dignity for all. The proclamation is in response to the Americans with
Disabilities Act’s (ADA) 20th year anniversary, and was awarded to Brian Atwell,
Executive Director of Living Independently in Northwest Kansas (LINK) located in
Hays, Kansas.
“I’m proud that Great Bend is an area supporter of ADA. It shows that Great Bend
is progressive community,” said Atwell. Atwell, accompanied by Denise Henkle,
Transitional Living Specialist, is striving to increase awareness of LINK and the need
for handicap accessible facilities. He is meeting with various communities and
encouraging them to join forces and recommit toward the goal of access for all.
The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by George H. Bush. During the
signing ceremony, Bush stated that the law was, “the world’s first comprehensive
declaration of equality for people with disabilities.” This law represents a significant
moment in the history of civil rights.
July 2010 • p11
RTFC Funds Nex-Tech
Wireless Market Expansion
Rural Telephone Finance Cooperative (RTFC) and Nex-Tech Wireless recently signed a loan
agreement for approximately $17 million dollars in funding to be provided by RTFC for future
expansion by Nex-Tech Wireless. RTFC is a member-owned, not-for-profit lending cooperative
created in 1987 to serve the financial needs of the rural telecommunications industry.
Nex-Tech Wireless will utilize the funding to expand their current coverage area east into
the counties of Jewell, Republic, Cloud, Mitchell, Ottawa and parts of Saline and McPherson.
In addition, Nex-Tech Wireless will extend the southern end of their current footprint into
parts of Pratt and Reno counties.
“Rural Telephone Finance Cooperative was a natural fit to enable Nex-Tech Wireless to
extend our service to wireless users in Kansas. We are excited about the opportunity to bring
an advanced 3G network, local customer service, and a variety of wireless solutions to consumers in these counties,” stated Johnie Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Nex-Tech Wireless
For more information on Nex-Tech Wireless, visit www.nex-techwireless.com or contact them
at 877-6212600.
About Rural Telephone Finance Cooperative
RTFC is a member-owned, not-for-profit lending cooperative created in 1987 to serve the
financial needs of the rural telecommunications industry. Today, RTFC has a membership of
more than 500 rural cooperatives and companies across the United States and more than $2
billion in loans outstanding to rural telecommunications companies.
About Nex-Tech Wireless
Nex-Tech Wireless, a subsidiary of Rural Telephone, Golden Belt Telephone and Mutual
Telephone, is a premiere wireless provider offering high-tech wireless solutions to residents in
33 counties of central and western Kansas. Nex-Tech Wireless focuses on providing its customers cutting edge technology including data and mobile services, the latest wireless equipment
and competitive wireless plans that provide nationwide coverage. For more information, visit
www.nex-techwireless.com.
Nex-Tech Wireless Donates to Local Schools
Nex-Tech Wireless is excited to announce a donation of $22,990.21 to local schools in the
first quarter of 2010 from the School Rebate Program. The School Rebate Program, offered
exclusively by Nex-Tech Wireless, was created to assist local schools in raising additional
funds to be used as determined by the participating school. The program, which was
launched in the fall of 2006, has donated over $80,000 to local schools throughout the NexTech Wireless service area.
Nex-Tech Wireless encourages all of their customers to select a school of their choice to
receive a 3% donation from their phone bill every month at no cost to them or the schools participating. “Nex-Tech Wireless enjoys donating money to local schools. It gives us an opportunity to give something back to our communities we live and play in. We appreciate the participation in the program and hope to see the donation amounts increase over the years to
come. To find out more about the School Rebate Program customers can go into their local
Nex-Tech Wireless location or visit our website at www.nex-techwireless.com,” stated Karly
Rogers, Director of Sales, Marketing & Customer Service for Nex-Tech Wireless.
“HEALTH CHAT”
Where Service Makes the Difference
& INSURANCE AGENCY INC.
“Serving Great Bend Since 1968”
www.kelleragency.com
620-792-2128
1-800-281-2128
1101 Williams, P.O. Box 945
Great Bend, Kansas
Dale E. Pruter
10th & Morton Street
Phone 620-792-3999
9 a.m. - 6 p.m. M-F
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat.
Find Out What’s New At CKMC
8:35 AM Every Tuesday
Only On KVGB AM 1590
St. Rose Campus, 3515 Broadway, Great Bend, KS 67530 - (620) 792-2511
St. Joseph Campus, 923 Carroll, Larned, KS 67550 - (620) 285-3161
July 2010 • p12
CKMC Hires Bruce Weddell as New CFO
Knudson Named Monthly Outstanding
Bruce Weddell, a self-described “community-hospital guy,” is the new chief
Salesperson for American Family Insurance financial
officer at Central Kansas Medical Center. He brings 25 years of experiAgent Rhonda Knudson of Great Bend has been named
Monthly Outstanding Salesperson by American Family
Insurance. She received the honor for outstanding sales of
American Family insurance products during the month of
May.
Knudson’s office is located at 2201 16th St., #A, Great
Bend, KS. Her office is staffed by Jay Knudson, Kristi
Oetken, and Lori Shomber.
“This is a very prestigious honor when you consider this
district covers all of south west Kansas, says Ken Willard,
district sales manager for the company. “This is a fitting tribute
to Rhonda’s determination and expertise in the insurance industry which has
earned her the trust and respect of her customers.”
Rosewood Services Receives Quilt Gift
The old Carole King song, "Tapestry," might have been written about Beth
Schneweis and her love of quilting and love and challenges of her family. The beginning words of the song describe her well: "My life has been a tapestry of rich and
royal hue, an everlasting vision of the ever-changing view..." As a quilter, Schneweis
expresses herself and her life in her work. Her latest creation is centered around various awareness ribbons. “I never knew that working with disabilities is so colorful,”
Schneweis said when describing the numerous colored ribbons that are associated
with various disabilities.
Schneweis continued, “Perhaps the most recognized awareness is the pink one for
breast cancer - and there are so many more. For example, a yellow awareness ribbon
is for those with hydrocephalus and spinal bifida. Lavender is the color for epilepsy
and a black and white pin-stripe ribbon recognizes ALS."
Schneweis stated, “There are rainbows of colors to support those with disabilities
and their families. I did research to learn about the various awareness ribbons and
decided that since Rosewood works with people with a wide variety of disabilities, a
quilt created with this information would hopefully be a powerful message of support for the agency.”
Schneweis and her husband, Mike, are the parents of a four-year old son with a
developmental disability. Christopher receives services from Rosewood Services and
the Rosewood Horse Ranch Therapeutic Riding Program and the family knows firsthand the challenges created by recent funding cuts from the State. “With
Christopher’s disabilities, our family knows the deep effect these cuts have had on
our direct funding from the state. I knew I wanted to do something to help
Rosewood because they, too, have received a funding cut of 10% from their budget.
I wanted to do something to help Rosewood and decided on making a quilt that
could be auctioned off to raise funds for the Rosewood Roots & Wings Foundation.
Christopher receives amazing care from Rosewood and has progressed so much further than any of us thought, including his doctors and other medical providers.”
Schneweis began work on her special quilt about six months ago, stitching in her
spare time. “Quilting is a great stress reliever. I learned to sew from my mother
beginning at the age of four. She’d put me on a stack of magazines to use the
machine. I’ve never lost my love of this creative art form.”
Schneweis and her husband are the parents of four children, Christopher, Curtis
(11), Cierra (10) and Faithe’ (3). This busy mother also works at Rosewood in the
Residential Department, providing direct care during the night shift. “I enjoy my
work very much. I miss my folks when I leave in the morning because it is so gratifying to give care to those who appreciate it so much.”
ence in the financial aspects of healthcare to his new position. Weddell is
responsible for a wide variety of duties, including accounting, patient billing,
purchasing, budgeting and admitting.
“Even though I don’t have direct contact with patients as often as I would
like, they are always in the front of my mind,” Weddell said. “For example,
when we give close scrutiny to the hospital’s finances, patient billing will be
more accurate.
“And when the financial side of the hospital is running smoothly, we are able
to do more in terms of employees, equipment, training and ultimately patient
care,” he added. “All of this is important to patients and their families.”
Weddell, who is a certified public accountant, said he was attracted to CKMC
because of the welcome reception he received during his application process.
“The people here – the leadership team - attracted me right away,” Weddell
said. “There is a genuine spirit of teamwork. The fringe benefit is CKMC is a
faith-based, community hospital that serves everyone regardless of ability to
pay.
“I have worked at for-profit and physician-owned healthcare entities,” he
continued. “They are simply not the same; they don’t have the same mission as
that of CKMC. Their focus is on the bottom line. These are the reasons I call
myself a community-hospital guy.”
Originally from Aspinwall, Pa., Weddell is in the process of moving to Great
Bend from Olathe. He is a 1979 graduate of Duquesne University, a Catholic
institution in Pittsburgh, Pa. His undergraduate degree is in business administration, with a concentration in accounting. Weddell earned his master’s degree
in business in 1991 at Robert Morris College in Moon Township, Pa. He became
a CPA in 1989.
His professional background includes positions as controller at Bradford
Regional Medical Center in Bradford, Pa.; CFO at Orthopedic Hospital of
Oklahoma in Tulsa; CFO of Golden Valley Memorial Hospital in Clinton, Mo.;
and CFO at the Headache and Pain Center, and Doctors’ Hospital, both in
Leawood, Ks.
“I am glad to once again be in a smaller-town, community hospital,” Weddell
said. “This is a great environment and I am eager to get to know Central
Kansans.”
Sharon Lind, CKMC president and chief executive officer, said she couldn’t
be more pleased
knowing that
Weddell is now an
administrative
partner. “Bruce
has such extensive
experience in
healthcare financial management,”
Lind said. “His
perspective will
add significant
value to CKMC’s
abilities to prosper
in the future.
Bruce is quickly
becoming a valued
asset as we
advance our notfor-profit healthcare ministry to the
Bruce Weddell, Central Kansas Medical Center’s new chief financial ofCentral Kansas
ficer, reviews information with Sharon Lind, the hospital’s president and
community.”
chief executive officer.
July 2010 • p13
Chamber Networking The Key to Building Valuable Customer Relationships
During the month of July, there are several opportunities for you and your business to take advantage of Chamber networking. Chamber After Hours Events and programs are a great
platform for you to meet other working professionals in the area, many of whom are potential customers. Check out these Chamber networking events scheduled in coming weeks:
Marmie Chrysler Dodge Jeep Hosts Chamber
Business After Hours Event July 23rd
In celebration of their 50th year in the car business, Marmie Chrysler Dodge Jeep
is hosting the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Event on Friday, July
23rd from 5-7 p.m. The event will be held under the Tent at 10th and Baker. Desa
Marmie Behr will be hosting the event for Marmies. Don't miss the Dodge Ram
Show Interactive Trailer and the Nascar Racing Simulator which will be on display
during this event. Four FREE Marmie service coupons will be given away as door
prizes.
Marmie's are celebrating their 50th year in the car business with three generations of family involvement. M.E. Marmie founded the dealership in 1960, joined by
David Marmie in 1966, Jerry Marmie in 1971 and Desa Marmie Behr in 1995.
Marmies want to thank their loyal customers for 50 years of support and look forwrad to many more years of servicing their customers in the future. For more information about the dealership, visit their web site at www.marmies.net.
Barton Community College & Highland
Hotel Partner to Host After Hours July 30th
The Barton Community College Foundation and the Highland Hotel & Convention
Center would like to invite you to attend their joint Business After Hours Event on
Friday, July 30th from 5-7 p.m. in Chaser's Lounge, inside the hotel.
"Every year, the college foundation holds its Big Benefit Auction in August, and the
after hours is a great way for us to get the public excited about the event ahead of time,"
says Barton Foundation Executive Director Darnell Holopirek. "The purpose of the
event is to promote the foundation's fundraising efforts to the business community."
For the third year, the Barton Foundation is partnering with the Higland Hotel &
Convention Center to host their after hours event. "This will be the third year we have
partnered with the college foundation to host an after hours," says Highland Hotel
Director of Sales Sandy Hiss. "We have always had a strong working relationship, and
this way we can pool our resources to have one great event."
During the event, there will be free Hors D'oeuvres and beer, along with door prizes
and a live d.j. for entertainment. There will also be a cash bar available.
Tim
Miller’s
Barton County Young Professionals After
Hours Event Scheduled July 16th
The Barton County Young Professionals group will be meeting at Charlie's Place
for an after hours social at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 16th. This event is free to attend,
but each person is responsible for their own drinks. RSVP's are not required.
Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming YP Events:
• Friday, July 16th - 5:30 p.m.
After Hours @ Charlie's
• Monday, August 9th - 12 p.m.
Brown Bag Luncheon @ Chamber Office
About Barton County Young Professionals:
The Barton County Young Professionals group is targeted for people who live
and/or work in the Barton County area between the ages of 21 and 40. If you know
of anyone who falls in this category who would be interested in receiving invitations to the laid back networking events that are being scheduled, feel free to reply
with their contact information so they can be added to the distribution list. For
more information or to get involved in this exciting networking program, contact
Great Bend Chamber Marketing Coordinator Rachel Mawhirter, 620-792-2401 or
[email protected].
New to the Great Bend Area? Get Involved!
Family Fun Night Scheduled July 15th
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic
Devleopment organizes social networking events for individuals and families who have moved to the Great Bend
area within the last two years. The next New 2 Great Bend
event will be an Family Fun Night at Brit Spaugh Park
and the Wetlands Aquatic Center on Thursday, July 15th
at 6:30 p.m. No RSVP's necessary, just meet under the picnic shelter at the northeast corner of the park next to the
playground equipment. Ice cream sandwiches and beverages will be provided. To receive invitations to all New 2 Great Bend events, contact Chamber
Office/Business Manager Lacey Oetken, [email protected].
Great Bend
Charlies
P
la C e
Your After Hours
– Hangout –
– NO MEMBERSHIP –
1109 Main Street
(620) 793-8668
620-792-7017
3820
Broadway
Serving Individuals, Family
and Business Concerns
1911 Lakin
(620) 792-4515
Great Bend
Great Bend
2300 Broadway
Great Bend
793-4223 • 800-762-0436
July 2010 • p14
Barton Signs 2+2 Agreement with FHSU Beautification Committee Recognizes Harper
for Early Childhood Education Program Camperland for Landscaping Improvements
Elementary and early childhood education students at Barton Community College will be
able to transfer to Fort Hays State University to complete their education after representatives from the two schools signed what is known as a 2+2 agreement June 7 on Barton’s
campus.
The 2+2 memorandum of understanding puts in place a partnership that enables degreeseeking students in the areas of elementary and early childhood education to transfer from
Barton to the university in a seamless manner, said Dr. Germaine Taggart, chair of the
Department of Teacher Education at FHSU.
This 2+2 agreement lays out what courses the student will need at Barton and at FHSU to
complete a bachelor's degree in elementary or early childhood education. The agreement
also lays out points of contact between students and faculty advisors at Barton and FHSU.
“This agreement is a big benefit to our students,” said Elaine Simmons, Barton’s Dean of
Workforce Training and Community Education. “For the students to have a map laid out
before them is the most important component of the 2+2 plan.”
This agreement with FHSU will help students achieve elementary education and early
childhood unified teaching degrees. These degrees are offered online, face-to-face or in
combination at
both Barton and
FHSU, enabling
prospective
teachers to take
coursework in a
manner that
suits their busy
lives, and in a
cost-effective
way.
For more information about
Barton’s Early
Childhood
Education
Program and the
college’s 2+2
agreement with
FHSU, contact
Cheryl Couch,
Barton’s Early
Childhood
Education
Instructor/
Coordinator, 620786-1130.
The Beautification Committee,
under the auspices of the Great
Bend Chamber
of Commerce &
Economic Development, is pleased
to announce that
Harper Camperland has been given
the Beautification
Award for the
month of July in
recognition of their
new landscaping
and fencing in front
of their location on
East 10th Street in
Great Bend.
Camper Curb Appeal - Pictured from left to right are Salesman Bob Rein,
General Manager Dan Lear, Beautification Committee member Judy
"It had been over
Reed, Salesman Kevin Doll, and Finance/Insurance Manager Mat Breit.
ten years since
we'd made any
improvements to the curb appeal of our location," says Harper's Finance/Insurance Manager Mat Breit. "We recently finished adding new fencing, grass, and
landscaping. We wanted to soften the storefront and make our location more
appealing for potential customers."
Harper Camperland has been in business in Great Bend for 27 years, carrying
Jayco and Newmar brand campers and RV's. "At any one time, we have 40 to
60 new units, plus a varying number of used models and trade-ins on our lot,"
Breit says. "We sell everything from the small travel trailer to the high end fifth
wheels."
The world of recreational campers and motor homes has changed quite drastically over the last few decades, Breit says. "High end motor homes come with
Amish-made cabinetry, chorion countertops, a self-leveling suspension system,
large high definition televisions, electric awnings, and furnishings to accomodate anywhere from two to eight or more people."
BCC President Dr. Carl Heilman, right, and FHSU’s Interim Dean of Education
Dr. Robert Scott sign a 2+2 agreement creating a partnership between Barton
and FHSU that enables degree seeking students in elementary and early childhood education to transfer from Barton to FHSU in a seamless manner. Also
pictured at the signing of the agreement are, standing left to right, FHSU Chair
of Teacher Education Dr. Germaine Taggart; Barton’s Early Childhood Education
Instructor/Coordinator Cheryl Couch; Barton’s Dean of Academics Dr. Rick Abel;
Barton’s Dean of Workforce Training and Community Education Elaine Simmons; and Barton’s Dean of Instruction and Student Services Dr. Penny Quinn.
Another important aspect of the Harper Camperland reputation is their
dedication to service after the sale. "We have one of the largest parts stores in
the state and an award-winning service department," Breit says. "We recently
received Newmar's Mahlon Miller Award in recognition of our quality service."
Breit continues, "We have been a part of this community for a long time, and
it's great to know that the improvements we have made to our facility have
been noticed by the Chamber's Beautification Committee. We are very grateful for this award." For more information about Harper Camperland, visit their
web site at www.harpercamperland.com.
Positions to Fill?
Looking for a qualified full time or part time employee? Let Great Bend Area Community Employee
Recruiter Renee Richmeier help you find the right individual. With hundreds of resumes covering a wide
variety of industries, Richmeier can help you find the employee you're looking for. Generate a larger pool
of applicants by placing a FREE listing on the area's leading jobs web site, www.centralkansasjobs.com. For
more information or to place a job listing, contact Richmeier, [email protected], today!
www.centralkansasjobs.com
United Way
of Barton County
1125 Williams
Great Bend, KS 67530
(620) 792-2403
The American Red Cross
Barton County Young
Men’s Organization
Central Kansas CASA, Inc.
Girl Scouts of Central Kansas
ElderCare
Great Bend Children’s
Learning Center
RSVP
Barton County Youth Care, Inc.
Quivira Council of Boy Scouts
Catholic Social Service
United Cerebral Palsy
The Family Crisis Center
Ourselves and Our Families
(Coalition for the
Prevention of Child Abuse)
Salvation Army
Meals on Wheels
Ellinwood Heritage Center
Golden Belt Home Health & Hospice
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Teen Court
Have you signed up
for the new "ECO"
Program?
"Easy, Convenient Option" for
everyone to give back to their
community through United Way
of Barton County. Simply sign
up to have as little as $1 per
month withdrawn directly from
your checking account
and donated to United Way of
Barton County. Forms can be
picked up from the United Way
office at 1125 Williams, Great
Bend, or by calling 620-7922403 and having a form mailed
to your home or business. The
true measure of a community's
success is by how those in need
are helped. Sign up today and
make a difference.
June 2010 • p15
I would like to thank the United Way Executive Board for giving me the opportunity to fill
the position at United Way Executive Director and thank the Barton County community for
being such an amazing community. Living and working in Great Bend and Barton County
has been a wonderful and rewarding experience for me. When I accepted the Executive
Director position in 2009 I had not foreseen my life to take the many
turns it has taken in the past twelve months. I was recently accepted
into a Nursing program in Woodward Oklahoma and therefore I have
resigned my position as the Executive Director of United Way to
pursue my dream of earning a second degree. It is with a heavy heart
that I am leaving Great Bend and my position at United Way. The
Barton County community is a wonderful place filled with wonderful
people, I will dearly miss my home here. I look forward to my many
visits back to Great Bend and Barton County in the future. Thank you
all for all of the help, support and kindness you have given during my
time in Great Bend and with United Way. May God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Heather M. Lockhart
United Way
Agency Profile
The 19 United Way agencies serve
a wide range of individuals, all of
which are living right here in the
Barton County community. To really
get to know your community you
must know your community on all
leve ls. In 2010 United Way of Barton County will profile each one of
the 19 partnering agencies over the
course of 2010 in the Chamber Outlook Newsletter. Please remember,
the statistics about the agencies are
number from right here in the Barton County community. In sharing
these stories and statistics, United
Way hopes to bring awareness and
provide knowledge to the community
about the individuals and the need
in the Barton County Community.
Great Bend Childrens Learning Center
Susan Detter, Executive Director
(620) 792-2421
1802 22nd St. Great Bend
The Great Bend Childrens Learning Center’s (GBCLC) mission is to
provide a safe, high quality, learning environment for children of
families needing this service in order to work or pursue educational
goals. GBCLC provides quality care at reasonable cost and inspire
caring capable children as future community members, and allow
children to grow and develop to the best of their ability. GBCLC has
programs for all day daycare, infant care, pre-school classes, before
and after school care, summer school age camp, drop-in care and
transportation for children. Children ages 2 weeks to 12 years are
provided with top quality care. Enrollment does not have restrictions on race, religion or sex. In the near future the GBCLC plans to
update their facility by adding new teacher resources and working
on the playground.
2009 Statistics
138 children served from Barton, Stafford and Pawnee counties.
67 children from Great Bend
6 children from Ellinwood
5 children from Hoisington
1 child from St. John
July 2010 • p16
Great Bend Chamber of Commerce &
Economic Development
July Calendar of Events
1… Chamber Coffee: Beautiful Beginnings Boutique, 1523 Main, 9:30 a.m.
1… Ribbon Cutting: Beautiful Beginnings Boutique, 1523 Main, 10 a.m.
1… Ambassador Lunch, Chamber Conference Room, 12 p.m.
1... KWEC Free Kids Program "Scaly Squirmy Snakes", KWEC, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
1... BCC Mini Class: Internet/Email, KansasWorks Office, 1025 Main, 5:45 p.m.
1… Back Room Concert, “Three Penny Acre”, Barton Arts Center, 2006 Forest, 7:30 p.m.
1… Summer Great Bend City Band Concert, Crest Theatre, 1905 Lakin, 8:15 p.m.
2... Economic Development Press Conference, Chamber Office, 9:30 a.m.
5… Chamber Office Closed
5… Barton County Commission Meeting, Court House, Room 106, 9 a.m.
6… Great Bend City Council Meeting, City Council Chambers, 7:30 p.m.
7-11... Barton County Fair, Great Bend Expo Complex
8… Chamber Coffee: Montana Mike’s Steakhouse, 906 McKinley, 9:30 a.m.
8… Summer Great Bend City Band Concert, Crest Theatre, 1905 Lakin, 8:15 p.m.
12... New 2 Great Bend Coffee, Perk’s Coffee Shoppe, 1216 Main, 10:02 a.m.
12... Barton County Commission Meeting, Court House, Room 106, 9 a.m.
13... Summer Great Bend City Band Concert, Crest Theatre, 1905 Lakin, 8:15 p.m.
15... Chamber Coffee: Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams, 9:30 a.m.
15... KWEC Free Kids Program "Extraordinary Eggs", KWEC, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
15... New 2 Great Bend Water Park Family Night, 2303 Main, 6 p.m.
16... Young Professionals After Hours, Charlie’s Place, 1109 Main, 5:30 p.m.
16-17... SRCA Drag Races, Great Bend Expo Complex
19... Barton County Commission Meeting, Court House, Room 106, 9 a.m.
19... Great Bend City Council Meeting, City Council Chambers, 7:30 p.m.
20... BCC Customer Service Lunch Series, Front Door Facility, 12 p.m.
20... Summer Great Bend City Band Concert, Crest Theatre, 1905 Lakin, 8:15 p.m.
21... Executive Board Meeting, Chamber Conference Room, 12 p.m.
21... Beautification Committee Meeting, Chamber Conference Room, 3:30 p.m.
22... Chamber Coffee: KSN-TV3, 482 N. Hwy 281, 9:30 a.m.
23... Business After Hours: Marmie Motors, 1724 10th Street, 5-7 p.m.
26... Barton County Commission Meeting, Court House, Room 106, 9 a.m.
27... HR Roundtable, Classic Inn Restaurant, 30 S. Patton Road, 11:30 a.m.
29... Chamber Coffee: Bell Memorials, 3324 10th Street, 9:30 a.m.
29... KWEC Free Kids Program "Go Fishing", KWEC, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
30... Business After Hours: Barton Community College Foundation/Highland Hotel
and Convention Center, Chasers Lounge, 3017 W. 10th Street, 5-7 p.m.
30... Stuff and Mail August Newsletter
30-31... SRCA Drag Races, Great Bend Expo Complex
Economic Development Announcement to be
Made During Public Press Conference July 2nd
Coffee Schedule
Economic Outlook
Labor Force
Employment
Unemployment
Unemployment Rate
KS Unemployment Rate
Permits
Commercial – GB
Residential - GB
Cars - County
Trucks - County
March 09
15,828
15,004
824
5.2%
6.3%
March 10
15,817
14,983
834
5.3%
6.3%
March 09
4
45
12
8
March 10
6
15
44
27
Thursdays at 9:30
July 1, 2010
Beautiful Beginnings • 1523 Main Street
Beautiful Beginnings is a retail business for wedding dresses and accessories,
and formal wear for kids and adults. We also offer tuxedo rentals.
July 8, 2010
Montana Mike's Steakhouse • 906 McKinley
Montana Mike's Steakhouse is open Tuesday through Sunday, offering a wide
variety of lunch and dinner entrees. Famous for their big portions of home-style
steaks and hamburgers, Montana Mike's is a great place to enjoy a lunch meeting, a night on the town, or a private gathering. Meeting spaces are available.
July 15, 2010
Great Bend Public Library • 1409 Williams
The Great Bend Public Library is a dynamic and active place offering services to
very young children, senior adults and everyone in-between. The library offers
free use of computers and the Internet that could be used to lookfor a job, email
grandma, or search for a good read.
July 22, 2010
KSNC • 482 N. Hwy 281
Locally established in 1954, KSNC is a long time NBC affiliate that provides
local and state wide news, weather and sports. A local sales and production staff
can get your businesses message into over 55-thousand homes with the most
influential media form in the market.
July 29, 2010
Bell Memorial • 3324 10th Street
Bell Memorial offers a wide variety of engraved stone artwork, created specifically to order for each customer. A wide array of stone styles and colors ensures
that you and your loved ones can create the memorial you are looking for.
August 5, 2010
Sterling House • 1206 Patton Road
Sterling House of Great Bend located in Great Bend, Kansas provides care and
Personalized Assisted Living options for seniors. Our emphasis is on providing
a wonderful assisted living lifestyle, allowing you to do what you can and helping you remain as independent as possible.
You are invited to attend a press conference on Friday, July 2nd at the Great
Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development, starting at 9:30 a.m. This
press conference is being held to publicly announce the next big Economic
Development project to take place in Great Bend. This is the third press conference scheduled thus far during the 2010 calendar year.
Employment – Barton County
•
3307 10th Street • Great Bend, KS 67530
McDonald’s
is providing coffee for Chamber of Commerce coffees.
City/County Local Sales Tax
Distributions Report
Sales Tax for Barton County at 1.00%
Sales Tax for Great Bend at .75%
Great Lakes Airlines Flights - March 2010
Flights from Kansas City
Flights to Kansas City
Flights from Denver
Flights to Denver
28
27
20
19
March 09
$337,037
$187,087
March 10
$287,857
$148,364