Progress Ag, Oil, and Industry 2024 - Embracing Community

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GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 • 1 Special to the Great Bend Tribune Sunday, January 29, 2023 2024 Ag, Oil, and Industry Progress Special to the Great Bend Tribune Saturday, February 10, 2024

Bartlett’s infrastructure investments benefitting Barton County wheat and soybean producers

the company is a leading U.S. exporter of grain to Mexico. Bartlett supplies all classes of wheat, foodgrade corn, and soybeans to millers and processors, and produces a full line of commercial patent flours.

At its Great Bend facility, Bartlett employs about 20 on-site Team Members and handles wheat, milo (yellow grain sorghum) and soybeans sourced from area farmers, cooperatives and commercial grain elevators. Most of the wheat and milo Bartlett purchases locally is either shipped by rail to Customers in Mexico, or transported to the company’s own flour mills in Coffeyville, KS and in North Carolina.

With Bartlett’s new soybean crush plant under construction in Southeast Kansas, near Cherryvale, the opportunities for soybean producers in Barton County and the surrounding area have increased significantly. The crush plant will be operational later this year, and will handle up to 45 million bushels of soybeans annually. Bartlett has invested to expand its Great

Kaleb Guilfoyle named origination manager

Kaleb Guilfoyle stepped into the role of origination manager at Bartlett Grain’s Great Bend office on Jan. 5. As the person in charge of all producer origination, he deals directly with farmers in buying their bushels of grain.

Guilfoyle said he became interested in a career in agriculture back in high school, through his involvement in FFA. He then attended K-State and got into an internship doing elevator operations. He interned with Bartlett, dumping trucks and cleaning bins at an elevator.

He and his wife Madison are recently married and fairly new to the Golden Belt. Guilfoyle moved here in December.

“We’re super-excited to be a part of this community,” he said, adding he is also

Bend facility in recent years to keep pace with growing demand for soybeans and other ag products. This includes doubling its track capacity at the site in 2022,

excited to have the opportunity to serve Bartlett’s customers. “I look forward to getting to know our producer base and continuing the good service.”

Coworkers at the office are Kade McGinn, originator, and Lacie Hunter, office manager. Bartlett Grain, 15 NE 60 Ave., Great Bend, is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours during harvest.

to provide more efficient handling of both inbound and outbound rail traffic.

“Our new soybean crush plant that is nearing completion in Cherryvale

will generate a strong demand for locally produced soybeans, and we’re excited to work with area farmers, cooperatives and grain elevators to help supply that demand,” said Kaleb Guilfoyle, Origination Manager at Bartlett’s Great Bend facility. “This project has allowed us to handle soybeans for the first time in the

facility’s nine-year history, giving us another way to serve the local producers and increase their ability to access more domestic and global markets. By contributing to our local economy this way, we’re also helping to support the community and the people who live and work here.”

Recent investments to expand and increase

capacity at Bartlett’s flour mill in Wilson’s Mills, NC and the company’s facilities in Mexico is also benefitting Great Bend area producers by providing reliable demand for the locally grown wheat received and handled at this facility. For more information about Bartlett, visit the company’s website at www. bartlettco.com.

2 • GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 GROSS FLYING SERVICE Larned Airport Steve & Brenda Gross P.O. Box 393, Larned SERVING YOUR AERIAL AGRICULTURAL NEEDS 620-285-5609 MILLER WAREHOUSE “Miller Plastics” 7:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday 24 Hour Answering Service omwinc@opiwireless.com 115 Patton Road - Great Bend Farm - Ranch - Home - Municipal - Utilities School Systems - Oilfield - Industrial Foam Pipe Insulation - Clear Flex Hose Pond Liners - Marking Flags Non-Freeze Hydrants - Suction & Discharge Hose Barrel Gauges & Faucets Pipe Repair Clamps - Sheet Rubber Gaskets & Many More Related Items OPEN to the PUBLIC OPEN to the PUBLIC Pipe & Fittings: Plastic - Steel - Stainless - Sprinkler - Galvanized - Gas - Irrigation Valves: Plastic - Steel - Stainless - Brass - Cast Iron Pumps: Submergible - Centrifugal - Geared 620-792-4388 - 800-772-6060 We are as passionate about your projects as you are. Call us today for a quote and let’s get started! Call 620-792-7426 Paul Pack Owner/Master Electrician Cell: 620-793-2143 Adam Sciacca Manager/Master Electrician Cell: 620-785-5584 255 W. Barton County Road - Great Bend, KS Rewires Solar Energy Systems Outlets & Switches 24/7 Emergency Calls Control Panels PLC’s Trencher, Backhoe & Bucket Truck All current electrical needs for Commercial, Industrial, Agriculture, Residential and Oilfield. Established in 1907, Bartlett has been operating its grain facility in Great Bend and making a positive difference in the community since 2015. Bartlett, a Savage Company, is a diverse agribusiness, focused on the acquisition, storage, transportation, processing, and merchandising of grain, and
PHOTOS
Grain, 15 NE 60 Ave., Great Bend
COURTESY
Barton
THE COVER Bartlett Grain employees,
Superintendent
Hoffman
standing on a platform in the 4 million bushel hoop.
ON
from left: Ivan Guerra,
Adam
and Shane Link are pictured
THIS
PHOTOS
IN
SECTION
Great Bend Tribune staff photos
Barton Community College Courtesy photos
Kaleb Guilfoyle, the new origination manager at the Bartlett Grain office in Great Bend.

Eldridge Fencing Celebrates 30 Years in the Fencing Industry

Eldridge Fencing, a family-owned business that started in a garage in 1994, is proud to announce its 30th anniversary as a leading provider of fencing solutions in Central and Western Kansas. Founded with a commitment to exceptional workmanship, service, and quality products, Eldridge Fencing quickly outgrew its initial space, prompting a move to a 500 sq. foot facility within the first year. Over the years, the company experienced continuous growth, expanding its offerings to include the Traeger Wood Pellet Grill

products. In 2005, Eldridge Fencing relocated to an 800 sq. ft. fencing store, complete with a showroom, vinyl and metal shops, and an expanded yard that allowed for nearly triple the inventory and selection. The facility also features an Outdoor Cooking showroom, showcasing three grill lines, meat processing products, spice & sauce lines, and grill accessories. With the increasing demand in the fencing industry, Eldridge Fencing took a significant step in 2006

Steve’s Truck

by establishing Western Kansas Fence Supply (WK Fence Supply). This wholesale distributor specializes in vinyl fence, deck, and handrails, as well as chain link, iron, and aluminum fencing. With an extensive inventory and two inhouse fabrication shops, WK Fence Supply has the capability to fulfill diverse customer needs.

“We believe our experience in the installation and fabrication of vinyl, ornamental iron, and chain link fence materials sets us apart from the rest,” said Wally Eldridge, Owner, Eldridge Fencing. “Eldridge Fencing

and WK Fence Supply collectively employ 25 hardworking individuals and proudly supply over 100 fencing companies across three states. As we celebrate three decades in the industry, we remain dedicated to providing unmatched service and top-quality products.” Eldridge Fencing and WK Fence Supply express gratitude to their customers, partners, and the communities they serve for their continued support. Looking ahead, they are enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve new clients and further contribute to the growth and development of the fencing industry.

Repair: Three Decades of Excellence in Vehicle Maintenance

Celebrating over three decades of dedicated service, Steve’s Truck Repair (Steve’s) proudly stands as a trusted name in vehicle repair and maintenance. Established by Steve Moran in 1983 as a one-man operation, Steve personally turned wrenches to keep vehicles in top shape. Today, as the business manager, he oversees a team of three technicians.

Two specialists focus on large diesel trucks, while another excels in domestic cars and pickups. This diverse skill set ensures that Steve’s can proficiently handle a wide range of vehicles.

In the early 2000s Steve’s expanded, adding a 50-foot bay to the workshop. The transition from a sole proprietorship to an incorporated entity reflects the business’s commitment to growth and professionalism.

Equipped with the latest tools and technology, Steve’s utilizes SNAP-ON scan tools for both small and large vehicles. As a

dealer for Jasper Engines & Transmissions, they also offer remanufactured products backed by an impressive 3-year, 100,000-mile warranty. For the agricultural and transportation sectors, Steve’s keeps a comprehensive inventory of Baldwin filters on hand, catering to farm and semi-tractor needs. Their services extend to DOT

inspections for over-theroad trucks and trailers, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Steve Moran expressed, “Our commitment to quality service is behind our

United Way assists those needing a hand up

Editor’s note: Charell Owings, executive director of United Way of Central Kansas, put together this progress report for UWCK.

In 2023, United Way of Central Kansas focused heavily on raising awareness of and bringing assistance to those who are considered ALICE. ALICE is Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These individuals and families make up 44% of the Barton County population and 48% of the Pawnee County population. To do this work, UWCK started with Laundry Love.

Laundry Love washes the clothes and bedding of low or no-income families, free of charge, once a month in both Barton & Pawnee Counties. Providing funds for laundry isn’t the main goal of this program though. By coming to where those in need are, UWCK is able to assist with connecting them to the resources that are available in our community. In 2023, UWCK helped nearly 100 families in Pawnee County and 300 in Barton County to clean over 1,800 loads of laundry.

United Way of Central Kansas also started an Impact Grant program. This allows organizations to apply for small grants of less than $1,000 to help them provide services to those in need. Funding was awarded to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas for disaster relief after the Great Bend storm this past summer as well as to Barton County CORE Community. UWCK partnered again with Barton County CORE Community, thanks to sponsorship from Barton County COPE to offer a Poverty Simulation. This unique program provided the community with a firsthand experience of living in poverty and fostered a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by families living in low-income situations. Participants from this event commented on how stressful it felt, even during a simulation. That it went from exciting and fun very quickly to the realization that they weren’t going to make it. Every “family” in the simulation ended up evicted from their homes. Following the event, members of CORE told their stories, further deepening the impact that this event had. United Way’s annual Stuff the Bus event also changed up this year. Focusing on providing backpacks and supplies to students in need. Thanks to the generosity of the community, UWCK was able to provide 250 backpacks to schools in Great Bend, alleviating some of the stress of back-to-school expenses that families faced even more this year due to rising costs.

It was also important to UWCK to be active and engaged at events where those who are ALICE would be. Staff and board members took part in numerous community events, providing information about resources, talking to those in need about what they are facing, and working with groups to start to make changes and improvements to better our community as a whole.

Looking ahead to 2024, UWCK’s focus will continue to be advocating for and assisting with helping those in our community who need a boost. Providing and hand up for the betterment of our community.

success. We’ve grown and evolved, but our dedication to maintaining vehicles with precision and care remains unchanged.” Steve’s expertise spans all makes and models of vehicles, from large semi-tractor-trucks to small domestic cars and pickups. The mechanics there boast unparalleled skills, combining experience, education, and ongoing training. From routine service and maintenance to complex overhauls, Steve’s Truck Repair is a reliable partner for all automotive needs. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 • 3 Visit Our Websites HammekeElectric.com PetroleumElectric.com Or Email Us at Tim@Hammekeelectric.com Chuck@Petroleumelectric.com Covering The Entire State Of Kansas! OILFIELD AGRICULTURE IRRIGATION New Well & Electric Conversion Hookups Variable Frequency Drives BARTON COUNTY FARM BUREAU ASSOCIATION 4210 8th St. Great Bend 620-792-2236 THANK YOU, BARTON COUNTY FARM BUREAU MEMBERS, FOR SUPPORTING OUR FARMERS AND RANCHERS!

Barton’s New Ag Complex

and is in addition to the current CNH Industrial Program at the college. ere is a classroom, lab, and stock pens for the animal science proe lab area allows animals to be brought in for examination and demis greatly enhances the ability for hands on experiences for

• Finally, there is a classroom and shop/lab area for the crop protection is allows the students a dedicated area to work with equipment and perform experiments. equipment from sprayers

• In addition, the expansion allows for the College to develop over the next year or so, a farm area for students in the crops area to have hands on experience in row crops and is includes examining crop varieties, tillage techniques, and

P.O. BOX 843 GREAT BEND 620-792-2686 800-741-1790 Celebrating 42 Years in Business We have been in business for 42 years and still going strong!! To our original customers in the lawn care or industrial division we send a big thank you! And to our new customers, we couldn’t do it without you. Professionalism is our top priority. For more information contact us at 620-527-4216 Golden Valley, Inc. is a farmer owned grain and supply cooperative formed December 1, 2001 by the consolidation of Golden Plains Cooperative of Rozel and Sanford, Farmers Coop Grain and Supply of Burdett and Tri-Ag Coop of Sanford. Located in Pawnee County, Kansas, Golden Valley handles wheat, corn, milo and soybeans at three locations with approximately 5.2 million bushels of combined grain storage Our full service Crop Production Department in Sanford provides a full range of agronomy services including custom application of dry and liquid fertilizer and chemicals, soil testing, wholesale and retail sales of fertilizer and chemicals, application equipment rental, custom blending and NH3 outlets at Rozel, Burdett and Sanford. The Petroleum Department offers cardtrol pumps at all three locations and a bulk fuel delivery truck for on site deliveries. The Service Department, located in Rozel, provides a variety of services and products for farm and automotive needs. Golden Valley can replace or repair tires either in our shop or in the field with our on farm tire truck. At the Burdett location, Golden Valley operates a full service feed mill, a seed cleaner and a farm store offering a selection of hardware and farm supplies Main off ice located at 102 South Main, Rozel, KS Here Yesterday, Here Today and Here Tomorrow. Call us at 620-792-2411 www.farmersbankks.com Darrell Touslee DarrellTouslee Tom Kirkhart Steve Neeland SteveNeeland Robert Rugan RobertRugan Let Our Ag Lending Experts Tailor a Solution for Your Farming or Ranching Operation… Including Remote Deposit from Your Home Office

Countryside Veterinary

Countryside Veterinary Associates has been providing care to animals of all sizes and breeds for over 50 years. When you think of the vet you probably think that only cats and dogs are being seen but that’s not the case. Dr. Bill Niederee says that, “In a small town like Great Bend Kansas you need to be prepared to treat any animal. Countryside has 3 categories that they place these animals into: companion animals, livestock, and exotic animals (birds, lizards, fish etc.) At Countryside they commonly assist with birthing, bone plating, fracture repair and pet boarding. Whether you need to bring in your bird to check on his feathers or call Dr. Niederee himself to help in a livestock birth, they can do it all.

One thing Countryside Veterinary is working right now is pet dental health awareness. With February

being National Pet Dental Health Month. It’s a great time to go out and get the supplies to ensure your pet’s teeth are in tip top shape. Many studies are coming out about animal dental hygiene, it was been proven that a healthy mouth can add years on your furry companion’s life. When you don’t take care of your animal’s teeth, diseases that affect the tissue in the mouth causes their teeth to fall out. And some diseases will effect your animal’s organs.

Most pet owners don’t realize how important oral hygiene is. This is why 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will develop some type of oral disease before they turn three years old. Even if you can’t get to it every day, brushing your animal’s teeth can have an incredible impact on their quality of life. Never use human toothpaste on your pets and remember to be gentle. You can always do your own research on how to actively prevent dental diseases in your pets.

Golden Belt Beef

With over 50 years of experience, Golden Belt Beef takes pride in quality and service. What began as a dream from a young man transpired into an industry leading, family owned operation. Their farm, located north of St. John. is where their cattle receives top notch care and are fed by carefully trained employees.

Roto-Mix

Roto-Mix is the leader in feed mixers, feed delivery boxes, compost mixing and manure spreading. Discover the wide variety of available products for your needs. They would love to hear from you about how they can help you get the best mixing and spreading performance.

Owned and operated by Stan Kaiser, they opened a specialty store north of St. John that has quite a selection of products from Kansas Raised Beef. Currently the selection includes: ground beef, steaks, roasts, ribeye, brisket, chorizo, sausage, brats, ribs, pig ears, tri-tip, all beef hot dogs, and sandwich meats.

In 1984 Ben Neier and Bill Pullen founded the company in Dodge City. Since it’s been founded, Roto-Mix has expanded and now includes additional manufacturing facilities located in Hoisington, Sunnyside Washington, and a retail location in Scott City. Roto-Mix has

Their favorite saying is “we don’t just want you to enjoy our beef, we want you to have an experience! Golden Belt Beef also ships anywhere in the Continental United States.

The store located at 1105 U.S. Hwy 281, is open Monday- Friday 10 am- 6pm, and Saturdays 10am- 3pm. They can be

successfully filed several patents regarding their livestock mixing and feeding equipment. The most valuable commodity is their 100+ skilled and dedicated employees. Each and every one of them is committed to delivering a superior product to our dealers and end-users.

Nex-Tech

highest quality Internet, with speeds up to 1 Gig, streaming TV, home security, and local and long distance phone service.

Nex-Tech also provides an array of enterprise solutions including cloud services, Hosted PBX, network security, managed IT, physical security

work operations monitoring to business clients nationwide.

Nex-Tech focuses on providing the best technology and support with the best people. With stores in more than 20 locations, a full-service Help Desk and 24-hour Network Operations Cen-

Nex-Tech Wireless

Nex-Tech Wireless connects thousands of people and businesses through a broadband network and cutting-edge technology. Their powerful fiber-tothe-premise and fiberto-wireless technologies deliver the highest quality Internet with speeds up to 1 Gig, streaming TV, home security, and local and long-distance phone service. Nex-Tech also provides an array of enterprise solutions including cloud services, cloud phone,

bringing the best technology, it means understanding what’s important, seeing customers around town, and cheering on the home team, according to Nex-Tech employees. They are located at 3700 10th St. in Great Bend, and can be reached at 620-792-3908.

network security, managed I.T., physical security and surveillance, creative solutions, and network operations monitoring to business clients nationwide. They pride themselves on focusing on providing the best technology and

support with local people. There are six employees based out of the Great Bend store. a full-service Help Desk, and a 24-hour Network Operations Center, They are located at 2827 10th St. in Great Bend. Call 620-796-5400.

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SA G & H Insurance, Inc. “WHERE CROP INSURANCE IS OUR ONLY BUSINESS” 1616 Main Great Bend, Kansas 620-792-1261 800-852-1261 www.ghins.com Clay Boepple, Agent Darci Lyman, Agent Serving Farmers for 30 years with Crop Insurance Marmie Chevrolet 620.792-8266 800.794-4675 Marmie Chrysler 620.792-2571 800.239.7840 Marmie Ford 620.793-5427 800.284.4941
Kansas Bank has been in the Golden Belt for over 123 years. If you are looking for a reliable and stable Bank, we would welcome an opportunity to visit with you.
First

G&H Insurance: Three Decades of serving area farmers with Family Values

G&H Insurance, a family-owned business rooted in Kansas family values, proudly celebrates its thirtieth anniversary. Since its began, G&H Insurance has been dedicated to serving farmers with a commitment to family traditions—a legacy diligently preserved by current owner Clay Boepple. The journey of G&H Insurance began three decades ago when Gwyn Boepple, Clay’s mother, laid the foundation for the business. Gwyn initially joined a local insurance firm as a secretary, but in 1992 the businesses headquarters was relocat-

The Kansas Oil & Gas Hall of Fame and Museum is a great spot to learn and expand your knowledge about the oil and gas industry and its history. This museum is located just west of Great Bend city limits and the collections are above and beyond.

Tours are available to the public, youth group programs, private parties, industry safety meetings, and school field trips. A tour offers insight on the production of gas and oil from start to finish. There are interactive activities that let everyone have a fun time while learning.

On top of the tours and collections, there is the Hall of Fame that showcases the portraits and biographies of inductees. Anyone is welcome to nominate a candidate for the Hall of Fame; this nominee will then be subjected to the approval of the Board of Directors.

Miller Warehouse offers an extensive line of pipe and fittings, hoses, valves and many other item. They guarantee to meet your oil field, farm, industry, irrigation, and residential needs. If you prefer online orders, they are now accepting them through their web site. Orders will be ready for you when you

6 • GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 5801 10th Street Great Bend, KS 67530 620-793-3546 We prepare all types of returns 1017 A Jackson St. Jackson Square Great Bend, KS 67530 620-796-2132 Nita Reimer Call for information
stop by. Miller
located
Patton Rd., or you can
Warehouse is
at 115 S.
call (620) 792-4388.
MIKE GILMORE Great Bend Tribune (Above) Tom Larson of the Kansas Oil & Gas Hall of Fame and Museum in Great Bend gives a brief presentation to Eastern Kansas visitors last August.
Sunflower Electric was created their company in 1957 based on the cooperative business model. This model could provide wholesale generation and transmission services. Sunflower Electric created a company that focuses on the best interest of Kansans and their way of life instead of profit. The reputation of Sunflower Electric is the result of over 60 years of dedicated service, strong leadership, vision and innovation. Their elected board of directors offer representation of cooperative. Decisions made by these representatives are to protect and enhance the ability to provide members with reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost. Sunflower Electric recognizes that electricity is essential to the personal comfort of families, business and community sustainability, and economic growth. This company takes pride their service. Sunflower Electric Miller Warehouse
Oil and Gas
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(Below) Visitors check out an exhibit.
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Smith Oil Supply

Smith Supply LLC is currently in its 25th year of business. The late coowner Roland L. “Smitty” Smith began his career in sales as the Circulation Manager of the Great Bend Tribune and then ventured into the oil and gas business by learning it from the ground up. Smith Supply LLC

subsurface pumps and gas-powered pumping engines. Smith Supply acquires casing, tubing and line pipe from several mill resources and utilizes regional wholesale vendors for fittings and additional products. They live by their motto — “Night or Day, Just a Phone Call Away.” Smith said it isn’t

respond,” Smith said. In addition to their efforts in the oil and gas industry, Smith Supply LLC understands the need to invest in the community. They have been long time supporters of the United Way of Central Kansas, the Kansas Oil & Gas Museum Foundation,

American Plains Coo-op

Beginning in 1959 to serve the Great Bend area, this Co-op has grown to 16 elevators, 13 fueling sites, and handles seed, feed, bulk fuel, grain, and farm supply services across Kansas and Oklahoma. The American Plains Coop is a cooperative that offers grain, fertilizer, energy and sustainability services to its members. Although,

the Farmstore is open to the public for gardening and animal supplies, including but not limited to vegetable seeds, animal feed, fencing supplies, and cattle equipment. Their hours are MondayFriday 7:30am to 5pm, Saturdays 7:30am to noon. Stewardship at American Plains Co-op means protecting the land

and being responsible with inputs. It means helping growers to get the most out of every unit of input. Their headquarters is located in Great Bend, Kansas, which is centrally located. The Cooperative has grown significantly, with annual sales totaling nearly $250 million dollars and 175 full-time employees.

GA Consultants focuses on trucking safety

HOISINGTON — GA Consultants is a familyowned business based in Hoisington that has been helping trucking companies navigate the confusing world of DOT safety regulations for over 20 years. GA Consultants provides support and clerical services to small, independent trucking companies with 10 trucks or less that cannot afford the cost of in-house safety personnel. The majority of their 200 plus carriers are based in Barton and the surrounding counties.

GA Consultants Inc. was incorporated in January of 2007. Founding owners were Greg Armstrong, Beckie Armstrong, and Pam Hickel. Greg and Pam were working as independent consultants at the time with Beckie being a strong, but silent

Wheatland Electric

Wheatland Electric is proud to “Deliver Energy for Life” to over 20,000 homes and businesses in Kansas. Wheatland Electric is more than a company, they’re a Cooperative. The company is owned by the people they serve, and they

take their mission seriously.

The electricity delivered by Wheatland Electric fuels crucial fans int he grain bins after harvest time, keeps life-support equipment running for older people, lights up athletic fields, and powers night

lights for people scared of the dark.

Wheatland Electric has seen problems in the communities they serve such as lack of reliable internet service, scarce supply of quality water, and poor service, and stepped up to be the solution.

supporter. Greg, Beckie, and Pam are also board members.

Greg came from a 30-year law enforcement background. For the last seven years of his law enforcement career, he worked with the MCSAP program as a supervisor over the western half of Kansas. With this background, he retired in 2000 and became an independent Motor Carrier Safety Consultant.

Pam Hickel began working with Greg on a part-time basis in 2003. In 2005, she decided that Motor Carrier Consulting was the career for her and went to work with Greg full-time.

Beckie Armstrong stepped into a more hands on role in April 2013 and quickly became an integral part of the company.

Greg and Beckie retired in spring of 2020 turning over the day-today operations to Pam. They both maintain their ownership and membership on the board.

The current team members include Seth Orebaugh and Karen VanBrimmer. Seth joined the team in December of 2017. Karen started with GA Consultants in January of 2023.

Each person’s individual contributions has helped to propel GA Consultants Inc into a rapidly growing company that is respected throughout the Kansas (and further) trucking community. With over 120 compliance reviews with a satisfactory rating, GA Consultants Inc. has also earned respect with the enforcement side of trucking.

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • VETERINARY SSOCIATES 620-792-2551 Office: 2900 N. Main St Great Bend www.countrysidevetgb.com Providing Over 50 Years Of... p...Com assionate Care For You & Your Pet illiam R. Niederee, D.V.M. Sandi G. Hayek, D.V.M. Call For An Appointment 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE orward to assisting you our Animal Agriculture needs NTRYSIDE

Southwind Drilling: 20 years of

ELLINWOOD — Southwind Drilling has provided full-service drilling operations for Mid-Continent Oil Operators in Kansas for the past 20 years. They currently provide three drilling rigs capable of drilling wells from 3,000 to 6,000 feet. They are current members and sponsors of Kansas Independent Oil & Gas Association (KIOGA), which is the lead state and national advocate for Kansas independent oil and natural gas producers, and American Petroleum Institute (API), which provides scholarships for students either pursuing a petroleum-related degree and/or their parents are employed in an oil-related

industry. “Our rig managers have extensive knowledge and years of petroleum industry experience in drilling. We understand the needs of our customers, and we never lose sight of the fact that ‘We are a Service Company.’ We believe this combination has been the contributing factor to the company’s success and growth over the past several years,” said Todd Morgenstern, Southwind Drilling’s President. The rest of the Southwind Drilling’s management team consists of Chris Batchman, Vice President, Frank Rome, Drilling Superintendent, and Jill Suchy, VP Operations.

Mark’s Custom Signs revamps Great Bend road’s image

Mark’s Custom Signs is a locally owned family business that has been providing their community with custom signage since 1977. Being located in the same spot for years, you know exactly where to go if you need a new decal for your home or a new LED sign for your business. Mark’s Custom Signs understands

that everyone has a unique vision when it comes to design. To ensure that Mark’s Custom Signs exceeds expectations, they will go through the design, and installation, as well as the maintenance processes with you. They have the equipment and experience to complete almost any project that you can think of. With a thriving business, people often forget small details about

the company that makes it special. Jeremy Guthrie says that his father Mark still does the hand stripping as well as the hand painting for their company. With this being a lost art, it adds a lot of value to the projects coming from Mark’s Custom Signs. From flags, to car decals, no job is too hard for this team. They offer a variety of signs ranging from neon to aluminum.

They also offer custom indoor wall decals and printed graphics. If you need a billboard or an awning, Mark’s Customs Signs has you covered. With the increased business that the company has been receiving, they have had to make a change to the radius where they can do jobs. The new radius will be 60 miles out.

One of the projects you will see that they are

doing this year is putting signs around the city that will direct drivers to attractions and other locations in Great Bend. They will also be helping with the Ellinwood District Hospital, the Little Panthers, and USD 428’s administration buildings signage. “There are a lot more projects taking place but these are just the bigger ones we have going on right now,” said Jeremy.

Haz-Mat Response is ready in an emergency

Haz-Mat Response in Great Bend is one of six HMR offices, with the home office in Olathe. Its employees provide emergency response service at any environmental emergency. HMR also contracts with multiple trucking companies and railroads throughout the U.S., as well as pipeline services.

Haz-Mat Response owns and operates specialized equipment for industrial service needs, including but not limited to, tank cleaning, confined space rescue, excavation, and liquid and dry vacuum service.

Trey McFadden at HMR said the company also serves the community. “We’ll do small and large-scale dirt

construction projects. We’re always more than happy to answer questions about the type of work we do.”

The staff in Great Bend numbers around 15.

Located at 5935 10th St. in Great Bend, the office is open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The HMR hotline number is 800229-5252.

Bob’s Oil Service, Inc.

Bob’s Oil Service has served the community for 38 years with oilfield lease work, dirt work, equiptment hauling, renting tanks, and more. Bob’s Oil Service is currently owned by Bob and Donna Long.

Each and every customer is valued and the employees strive to have a good relationship with each person. With their six employees, their goal is to do the best job possible in the fastest way.

Bob’s Oil Service, Inc. is located in Ellinwood, Kan., and can be reached at 620-564-3070.

8• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 VALLEY IS… SECOND TO NONE. Being on top is a privilege we don’t take for granted. We know we didn’t become The Leader in Precision Irrigation® on our own. We’re backed by hardworking farmers like you who put their trust in Valley every day. Working with you, we improve, innovate and accomplish what others can’t. Number one and second to none. This is Valley. CA1110 valleyirrigation.com Ag Systems, Inc. 810 E. 14th St., Larned, KS 810E.14thSt.,Larned,KS 620-285-2111 Serving Larned, Kinsley, St. John, Great Bend, & Ellinwood Member FDIC Over 116 Years of Dedication, Strength, Stability & Great Service to Central Kansas! Located in Pawnee County, Golden Valley, Inc. is a farmer owned grain and supply cooperative that formed Dec. 1, 2001 by the consolidation of Golden Plains Cooperative of Rozel and Sanford, Farmers Coop Grain and Supply of Burdett and Tri-Ag Coop of Sanford. Golden Valley, Inc. has three locations that handle wheat, corn, and soybeans with appoximately 5.2 million bushels of combined grain storage. Sanford provides a full range of agronomy services including custom application of dry and liquid fertilizer and chemicals, soil testing, fertilizer and chemical sales, and more at their full service Crop Production Department. The Petroleum Department at all three of their locations offer cardtrol pumps and a bulk fuel delivery truck for any on site deliveries. Golden Valley’s Service Department is located in Rozel and provides a variety of services and products. At the Burdett location, Golden Valley operates a full service feed mill, a seed cleaner and a farm store offering a selection of hardware and farm supplies.
Golden Valley Inc.
service
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Barton County Farm Bureau is a 105-year-old, nonprofit organization, representing nearly 2,000 Barton County members as the Voice of Agriculture. Barton County Farm Bureau’s mission is to enhance the business and profession of farming, increase members’ net income, provide superior value in the marketplace, and improve the quality of life in Kansas. Barton County Farm Bureau operates under the direction of a ninemember Board, allwith agriculturalinterests. The Board represents the members at various meetings, conferences, and workshops at the local,state, and nationallevel. Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization therefore politicians willrefer to our localFarm Bureau leaders on agriculturalissues related to our area farmers and ranchers. At the Kansas Farm Bureau Annualmeeting in December Barton County Farm Bureau was recognized as a Platinum Award winner, the highest award given, for the Association’s involvement and participation in activities at the local, state, and nationallevel. Ag in the Classroom and Feeding the Hungry are two areas of involvement that Barton County Farm Bureau has been recognized for over the years. You do not have to have to become a memeber of the association, everyone is welcome and there are so many oppurtunities like classroom lessons, county coordinator ideas for community events, summer activities for kids at home and book series that promotes accurate agriculture information. Anyone interested in becoming a member of Barton County Farm Bureau or with questions about the Association can call620-792-2236 or drop by the office at 4210 81h Street in Great Bend. 517 Washington Great Bend, KS 620-792-6595 MURPHY TRUCK REPAIR In Business Since 1980 Truck Repair and Towing ELLINWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS HOME OF THE EAGLES WWW.USD355.ORG ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE ...ELLINWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS USD 355 Mission Statement: Ellinwood Public Schools educates students to become self-actualized citizens who can promote growth to society. Ellinwood Grade School Ellinwood Middle / High School Kansas Farm Bureau is more than just insurance COURTESY PHOTO Staff at Farm Bureau. Justin Mawhirter’s new company Fresh Start Woodworks held a ribbon cutting on Thursday, February 8, 2024. This small manufacturing company produces and delivers semi-custom cabinetry and other carpentry products, Based in Great Bend it shares building space with Just In Time Remodeling, Mawhirter’s construction and remodeling company. Fresh Start Woodworks will primarily serve contractors, lumber yards, and home improvement stores providing cabinets at wholesale prices to retailers and dealers across the state of Kansas. Although, homeowners within 60 miles can also place orders by working through their sister company, Just in Time Remodeling. Or they can ask their contractor to set up a wholesale relationship with Fresh Start Woodworks. Mawhirter has over 15 years of experience in the remodeling industry. His experience as a contractor led him to realize the significant need for quality cabinetry available at a reasonable price in a reasonable timeline. “Our primary focus is on wholesale relationships with other businesses who need a reliable and responsive vendor for high-quality cabinetry – real estate developers, contractors, property managers, lumber yards, home improvement stores, etc.,” Mawhirter said. Fresh Start Woodworks ribbon cutting COURTESY PHOTO
If No Answer Call 620-793-0113 OUR EQUIPMENT: Loaders Excavators Backhoes Scrapers Dozers Motor Graders Skid Steers ervices Specializing in 10, 15, 20, 30 & 40 yard Roll Off Containers 620-793-8853 MAKE WASTE MANAGEMENT EASY! ALL YOU NEED TO GET THE JOB DONE! STONE Decorative Rock 2019 along with four others previously owned and operated by Straub International. Manager Scott Dewerff has been along for the ride since 1995. This past year, Scott and KanEquip have been heavily involved in a partnership with Barton Community College offering a Top Tech program. The program, supported by Case IH and New Holland, also known as CNH, trains students for ag service technician careers. After just two semesters of training they are able to enter the workforce in ag-centric communities like Great Bend, ready to earn a living supporting the worldrenown equipment farmers rely on. Equipment for the program is provided by KanEquip in Ag Day. The Great Bend location employs 21 people. In addition to Case IH products, it also sells and services equipment from, Great Plains, Land Pride, MacDon, Drago, and KUHN/ Krause. The showroom features KanEquip branded merchandise as well as Case IH branded toys and clothing plus Louisiana Grills available for purchase. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday during the agriculture off-season and 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon once planting begins each year. Hours are extended during harvest and after-hour parts and service are available around the clock, 365 days a year. COURTESY PHOTOS KanEquip in Great Bend, representing Case IH, is here to lend a helping hand for all your agricultural equipment needs.
An instructor uses a KanEquip-provided Case IH round baler to teach mechanical skills to a student participating in the Top Tech program at Barton Community College.

The Victory Garden serves up healthy connections with community and nature

With spring-like weather previewing in central Kansas, Barton County District Manager Veronica Coons is excited about what’s in store at the Victory Garden of Barton County for 2024.

“It’s still a little early to dig in, but garden season is just around the corner,” she said.

The Spring Gardening Basics class presented by Barton County Master Gardeners will be back for its second year. This year, classes will be held on Saturday mornings at the Great Bend Public Library beginning in March. Gardeners from the 2023 season who are returning will begin spring planting soon, and applications are being taken now for the vacant raised beds. Plans are also underway for installing the first phase of a native grass and flowering plants display to increase awareness of the benefits of native plantings for pollinating insects and small animals.

“Community gardens bring people together in a positive and healthaffirming activity,” Coons said. “That’s the whole point of this gardening partnership. When we pitched the idea to the Barton County Master Gardeners and the Barton County Historical Society

Village, we envisioned a place where county residents could learn about gardening, engage in gardening, and meet others who garden. When we connect with nature and with others in this way, there are so many benefits!” The benefits of gardening include light to moderate exercise, and exposure to the sun and fresh outdoor air. There are a number of studies that have concluded that being outside and in nature helps to reduce stress and improve mood and outlook. Connecting with nature also helps us to become more aware of how our actions in the land have lasting effects, and can motivate us to more conservationpositive practices, Coons said.

by volunteers who share produce with the community through donations to food banks and the Hungry Hearts mission at the Dream Center in Great Bend.

It’s also where budding gardeners can get handson experience during the gardening classes offered in the spring. The garden is located on the west side of the Lustron House at the Barton County Historical Society Village located on US 281 just south of the Great Bend city limits.

Also, there’s the produce! Recently, a study from the University of Sheffield in the UK concluded people who grow a percentage of their

own produce in home or allotment gardens eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and waste less of the same.

The Victory Garden of Barton County offers both a communal

gardening experience and an allotment gardening experience. The communal gardening experience happens through the Learning Garden. This is a larger garden tended

There is also an allotment-style garden that currently includes 10 raised beds that people in the county can tend for their own use. These beds are also located at the history museum between the main building and the transportation barn.

The allotment garden also includes a small herb garden space where gardeners are free to harvest fresh herbs throughout the season.

People who want an allotment space can apply now for the 2024 garden season. At the end of the season, they can indicate if they want to return the following year and their space will be saved for them. There are currently seven spaces available.

The garden season is from March 1 to October 1.

Gardeners can grow what they like, provided it is not classified as an illegal plant or a noxious weed.

So, flowers, vegetables, small fruits, and herbs are welcome, with only a few exceptions. For more information, contact the Barton County Conservation District at 620-792-3346 extension 303.

12 • GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024 Southwind DrillingInc. 8 8 North Main St. Ellinwood, KS 67526 67526 6 620.564.3800 5 fax 620. 64. 84 www southwinddrilling com www.southwinddrilling.com g Sc S hedulinng Conta t ct c s: s Scheduling Contacts: rn Todd Morgenstern Ch C an n Chris Batchman F Fr me Frank Rome hy y Jill Suc 3 s 3 Rotary Rigs Celebrating our 20 Year our 20 Year A K nniversary Serving ansas Anniversary Kansas
COURTESY OF THE VICTORY GARDEN OF BARTON COUNTY Great Bend High School seniors
plant
helped
seedlings
at the Victory Garden of Barton County in 2023.
Vinyl Chainlink Ornamental Iron Traeger Wood Pellet Grills Halo Grills Napoleon Grills PK Grills 80 East 10th Street, Great Bend 620-793-7970 Electric Cooperative S Electric Cooperative RELIABILITY. AFFORDABILITY. SUSTAINABILITY. Delivering Energy for Life L a n e ane Scott cott C p i ooperative El i lectric
The Barton County Conservation District board of supervisors helped build raised beds for the Victory Garden allotment garden in May, 2023. Applications for gardening in 2024 are being taken now at the Barton County Conservation District.
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