Progress Commerce and Finance 2024 - Embracing Community

‘Something for everyone’ at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center

exhibits, a classroom with live animal exhibits, the Duane Shook Auditorium, a nature trail, and the Wetlands Gift Store. Admission to the Center is free. Van tours of Cheyenne Bottoms are also offered for a small fee.

Opened in 2009, KWEC offers the public a plethora of ways to get closer to nature. In fact, KWEC offers more than 700 programs annually on a wide variety of nature topics. While many of these programs are given to school groups, many other programs and events are open to the public. Programs are offered throughout the year on a variety of topics and for a variety of ages. And, most of the programs are offered free of charge.

Mark your calendars for the following fun, free special events offered by KWEC this year:

• KWEC Spring Break Drop-in - March 1115. Informal, hand-on, come-and-go activities for school-aged children each day from 1-4 p.m. A

different activity will be available each day.

• KWEC Solar Eclipse Party - April 8 from noon to 3 p.m. Spend the afternoon at KWEC observing the solar eclipse. While our location is not in the path of totality, it is expected that 85% of

Eclipse glasses will be available to safely view the eclipse, as well as other eclipse activities going on during the party at KWEC.

• KWEC Butterfly Festival - September 28 from 9 a.m. to noon.

All things butterfly

public Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. The Center is closed on

wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu or sign up for the monthly KWEC e-newsletter by calling 877-243-9268.

First Kansas Bank serves the community

First Kansas Bank was chartered in 1900. The bank has locations in Hoisington, Claflin, Great Bend, and Hays.

Over those 123 years, First Kansas Bank has made high quality loans and investments to keep our customers money safe and sound, said Paul Snapp, President/CEO.

More importantly, we have treated our Customers, our Communities, and our Bank Team like family.

First Kansas Bank’s four core values shape everything we do. Those core values are: Integrity and Teamwork; Operate a Sound Bank; Balance Family, Work, and Community; and Exceed Customer Expectations.

As a small community bank, we recognize that our strength comes from the communities we serve. First Kansas Bank is proud to have local decision makers who

of the community and customer. Our Bank Team is encouraged to be very active in their community. The bank has staff involved in United Way, Kiwanis, Rotary,

District, Chambers of Commerce, School District Foundations, Barton Community College Foundation, Barton and Ellis County Young Professionals, Central

County Farm Bureau Association, Clara Barton Hospital Board, Clara Barton Foundation, Kans for Kids, Golden Belt Community Foundation, Great Bend Economic

Dazzle Dog Spa & Boutique

The newest full-service dog grooming Salon in Great Bend, Dazzle Dog Spa offers high-end Italian shampoos and fear free dog grooming all by a Master Dog Groomer with 40 years experience.

After more than three decades of running a successful dog grooming business in Fairbanks, Alaska, Gidget Hagan launched Dazzle Dog Spa in Great Bend. She offers a unique and dog-friendly grooming experience. With a focus on providing a stress-free environment for furry clients, Dazzle Dog Spa aims to redefine the grooming experience for dogs and their owners. With a desire to be closer to family in Hoisington and a vision for a more relaxed and dog-centered grooming approach, she made

the decision to relocate to Barton County.

At Dazzle Dog Spa, every aspect of the grooming process is designed with the dog’s comfort and well-being in mind. Hagan embraces a “fearfree” approach, recognizing that dogs, like humans, can experience anxiety in unfamiliar environments. From the use of dog pheromones to create a relaxed atmosphere to the absence of cages and a rubberized floor for stability, every detail is carefully curated to ensure a positive grooming experience. Clients at Dazzle Dog Spa are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with treats, toys, and massage tables for the ultimate relaxation. Each grooming session includes a luxurious

spa treatment, including skin conditioning, towel wraps, massages, and gentle shampoos tailored to the dog’s needs.

“We’re not just a grooming salon; we’re a haven for dogs to relax, unwind, and feel pampered,” says Gidget Hagan, founder of Dazzle Dog Spa. “Our mission is to provide a truly exceptional grooming experience that puts the needs of the dog front and center.”

In addition to serving individual clients, Dazzle Dog Spa is dedicated to giving back to the community. Hagan collaborates with the Golden Belt Humane Society to provide free grooming services for shelter dogs, preparing them for their forever homes.

They can be reached at dazzledogspa@gmail.com

activities.

Great Bend Expansion

First Kansas Bank is continuing to experience growth at all of our locations, but in Great

Bend we are out of space to accommodate additional growth.

“Since we completed this building in 2007, the bank has grown six fold in Great Bend alone,” Snapp said. “We see continued growth every month. We want to continue to take excellent care of our customer’s financial needs, but in order to do that, we must have more room. We do realize construction brings some inconvenience to our customers, but we hope they will bear with us as we make this important improvement at our Great Bend Bank.”

First Kansas Bank is proud to use a local contractor, Brentwood Builders LLC, and local sub-contractors. The construction project in Great Bend will be completed this spring. The past 123 years have been very good to our bank and Barton County, and we are excited for the future!

A quarter-century ago, Dale Prueter and his wife Sherry faced a significant decision when they considered moving to Great Bend. Despite feeling apprehensive at the time, they decided to take the opportunity, and it turned out to be the right move for them.

Before arriving in Great Bend, Dale and Sherry took the winding road to get here. They met and married in Russell, moved to Clay Center, and then to Inman.

However, in 1998, an opportunity arose when the Whirlpool store in Great Bend was closing, and Dale was recruited to take over and reopen it. Concurrently, a teaching position opened up at Great Bend High School, which was ideal for Sherry.

Despite initial reservations due to existing competition in Great Bend, they decided to seize the opportunity, encouraged by their church pastor to take advantage of open doors.

Great Bend Appliance, started modestly with just Dale and his wife. However,

their operations, adding furniture and bed sales to their offerings. With affiliations like BrandSource and their commitment to quality service, their business grew steadily. Eventually, they expanded into appliance repair and acquired additional floorspace to accommodate their growing inventory.

Dale remains optimistic about the future. He attributes their success to faith, hard work, and the support of their dedicated team, which includes family members and other employees.

Great Bend Appliance Center is a comprehensive retail destination located in Great Bend, Kansas, offering a wide range of products and services for your home needs.

They offer a variety of appliances for your home, kitchen, laundry, and outdoor spaces. Their selection includes refrigerators, freezers, icemakers, cooktops, stoves, wall ovens, ranges, microwaves, hoods, dishwashers, disposals, washers, dryers, and pedestals.

Great Bend Appliance

and television products such as home theater receivers, HDTVs, 4k Ultra HD TVs, Smart TVs, Curved Screen TVs, LCD TVs, LED TVs, OLED TVs, integrated amplifiers, speakers, sound bars, BluRay players, and headphones. Their furniture offerings encompass items for the living room, dining room, home office, and bedroom. This includes chairs, ottomans, recliners, sofas, sofa sleepers, loveseats, sectionals, dining tables, dining chairs, bar stools, china cabinets, buffets, office desks, office chairs, bookcases, armoires, beds, chests, dressers, nightstands, and mirrors.

They provide a range of mattresses including innerspring, hybrid, and gel memory foam mattresses, along with box springs, adjustable foundations, pillows, mattress covers, and mattress protectors.

It is Great Bend Appliance’s mission to provide you with quality service that you won’t receive any-

has established itself as a leading electrical contracting company in Kansas.

Kiowa Kitchen is a Barton County Tradition serving up incredible Mexican Food

Kiowa Kitchen is a beloved Barton County tradition located at 214 E Barton County Rd in Great Bend, Kansas. With its long-standing reputation for serving incredible Mexican food, Kiowa Kitchen has become a go-to restaurant for locals and visitors alike. You can contact them at (620) 793-9855.

The restaurant has a rich history that dates back decades. Frank and Gwini Delgado originally started Kiowa Kitchen, establishing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine in the area. Keeping it in the family, Gwini’s niece Chrissy and her husband took over the restaurant from them. After a few years, ownership transitioned again when Troy, Chrissy’s brother, bought the restaurant from his sister. Despite changes in ownership, many of the recipes have remained the same over the years, a testament to the enduring popularity of their food.

At Kiowa Kitchen, they believe in using quality ingredients to create delicious meals. Whether you’re craving enchiladas, burritos, tostadas, or their signature dish, the catfish, you can expect flavorful and satisfying Mexican cuisine made with care and attention to detail. The catfish, despite its name, doesn’t actually contain catfish. Instead, it features a large flour tortilla filled with refried beans, beef, and pork chili, topped with enchilada sauce, cheese, and jalapeño rings for a spicy kick.

Kiowa Kitchen prides itself on offering daily specials and providing a welcoming atmosphere with hospitable staff, ensuring that every dining experience is unmatched. Whether you’re a longtime patron or visiting for the first time, Kiowa Kitchen promises to deliver delicious Mexican food that keeps customers coming back for more.

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce operates as the primary advocate for local businesses and a forward-thinking advocacy organization for Great Bend and its economic region. Their efforts are centered on cultivating a businessfriendly environment that fosters the expansion and success of existing businesses, while also attracting new ventures to the area. They pledge to provide membership opportunities and benefits that deliver exceptional value and empower businesses to thrive. They champion the interests of local

businesses by advocating for policies and initiatives that support their growth and success.

They actively promote the Great Bend area as an attractive destination for businesses, residents, and visitors, leveraging marketing strategies to showcase its unique offerings and opportunities.

The Chamber makes strategic investments in programs and initiatives that contribute to the long-term economic vitality and sustainability of Great Bend and its surrounding areas.

They provide a comprehensive range of services and resources to their members,

designed to support their operational needs, foster networking opportunities, and facilitate professional development. The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting and enhancing the business environment in the Great Bend area. Through our services and partnerships, they strive to foster growth, support existing members in achieving their business objectives, and facilitate connections within the local business community. They are committed to welcoming and collaborating with area businesses to drive economic prosperity and development.

ve decades, initially becoming Stone Sand Co. Inc. in 1963 and incorporating in July eir services include excavation, demolition, and earthwork for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal projects.

Operating Monday through Friday from 7:30

am to 5:30 pm, Stone Sand Co. Inc. is dedicated to providing convenient, reliable, and professional services to their customers. Whether it’s a small residential project or a large-scale commercial endeavor, customers can trust Stone Sand Co. Inc. for all their excavation and demolition needs.

Sunflower Bank, headquartered in Salina, Kansas, is a regional bank with a significant presence across Kansas, Colorado, and Missouri. The bank offers a comprehensive range of financial services including personal banking, business banking, wealth management, and mortgage services.

Operating as Sunflower Bank, First National 1870, and Guardian Mortgage, it aims to provide tailored financial solutions to individuals and businesses in the communities it serves. With a history dating back to 1892, Sunflower Bank has established itself as a trusted financial institution with a commitment to customer satisfaction and community involvement.

The bank operates under the umbrella of FirstSun Capital Bancorp and boasts assets totaling $7.7 billion as of September 30, 2023.

One notable aspect of

In the heart of Hoisington lies a testament to resilience and community spirit – Town & Country Market. Established on June 28, 1956, amidst a competitive landscape of seven other grocery stores, this family-owned market set itself apart as the first air-conditioned establishment in Barton County. Its journey over more than 60 years is a story of courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

Sunflower Bank’s approach is its emphasis on financial literacy. The bank recognizes the importance of education in helping individuals achieve their financial goals and offers a dedicated Financial Literacy program. Through this program,

Sunflower Bank conducts various educational initiatives such as classes on basic banking information, budgeting skills, credit card management, and more. These classes are held in diverse locations including schools, colleges, senior

centers, and community centers, catering to individuals of all ages and stages of life.

Moreover, Sunflower Bank actively participates in community initiatives and supports local organizations and events. One such initiative is

Ray Deutsch, a WWII Marine veteran, and his wife Dolores embarked on this entrepreneurial endeavor, envisioning a space that not only

provided essential goods but also fostered a sense of warmth and hospitality. The market quickly became a hub of activity, nestled

alongside various other businesses, serving as a cornerstone of the local community.

the Reality U event, a collaboration with the United Way of Central Kansas aimed at providing eighth-grade students with practical insights into nancial decision-making. During Reality U, students participate in a simulation where they manage a budget through various real-life scenarios, gaining valuable experience in nancial responsibility.

Laundry Love, an initiative under the United Way of Central Kansas Impact program, aims to make a tangible impact on families facing economic challenges. Sunflower Bank’s sponsorship of this event reflects its commitment to community well-being and providing practical support to those in need. The annual “Stuff the Bus” campaign, a community-driven initiative aimed at collecting school supplies for children in need. “Sunflower Bank Employees volunteer

their time, in partnership with The United Way, which plays a vital role in assisting families with limited financial means,” said Becca Maxwell of Sunflower Bank. By volunteering to stuff backpacks filled with essential supplies, the program makes a significant difference in helping children begin the academic year on the right foot.

Additionally, Sunflower Bank has introduced the Community Partner Award program to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations in its communities. Recipients of these awards receive grants to support their ongoing efforts in community service. Through initiatives like these, Sunflower Bank demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact and fostering economic empowerment in the areas it serves.

Wiehl’s journey in Great Bend began with a managerial position at Ron Lamb’s Color Clinic, eventually leading to the purchase of the business from Ed and Cheryl Heier in February 2017.

Today, Troy’s Color Clinic, co-owned by Troy and his wife Angela, offers a range of products and services including paint, floor coverings, wall tile, and color matching expertise.

Troy’s Color Clinic includes offering Benjamin Moore products alongside their existing PPG paint line, demonstrating their commitment to meeting customer needs and preferences. With a focus on customer service, Wiehl ensures that every customer leaves satisfied and happy with their experience. In addition to providing top-notch products, Troy’s

Color Clinic also offers turnkey flooring solutions with the help of local independent installers. From carpet brands like Mohawk, Shaw, and Phenix to various flooring options including tile, laminate, hardwood, and vinyl, the store aims to cater to diverse customer preferences.

A unique aspect of Troy’s Color Clinic is its specialty in color matching, allowing them to accurately match stains for woodwork, even from older homes. The store is also a valuable resource for DIY enthusiasts, offering expert advice and a wide range of paint sundries and

Despite facing personal tragedies and business challenges, the Deutsch family persevered.

into the role of sole proprietor, ensuring the continuity of their cherished enterprise. Her resilience was put to the test during a tornado that swept through the area. Dolores’s quick decision to close the store early likely saved lives, showcasing her unwavering dedication to the safety of her patrons and employees.

In the aftermath of the storm, Dolores and her son Randy, faced with the decision of whether to continue, chose to rebuild and expand Town & Country Market.

and the enlargement of the market itself. Dolores remained an active presence, her commitment to providing excellent service unwavering.

Town and Country Supermarket’s roots are deeply set in their community and are built on the spirit of hometown Family Pride. Friends and family come for wonderful produce, fresh meat cut daily, and a wide variety of national and local grocery brands at the best prices you will find anywhere. Their also features convenient

uals and businesses within a 60-mile radius of Great Bend, Troy’s Color Clinic actively supports the local community by donating paint for murals, assisting

community events and initiatives. With store hours from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays,

Bend community, dedicated to providing quality products, expert advice, and unwavering support for its customers and the community at large.

Park Shopping Center

Wolf Hotel plans dining room grand re-opening

ELLINWOOD — Th

Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood has weathered the test of time as both an enduring anchor to the community’s business district and a testament to the winds of change.

In 1894, John wolf built the structure as an addition to the Delmonico Hotel, which has since been demolished.

The addition, which added several rooms to the hotel, also served as the Bank of Ellinwood and several stores that occupied the tunnel system along Main Street in the community.

The Sunfl room, added in 1924 by Fred Wolf (John Wolf’s son) was a prestigious restaurant that attracted people from many places with its amber lighting and wheat shock plaster columns. The dining room held its grand opening on Easter Sunday in 1924, with a live orchestra in attendance.

Wolf Hotel owner Christopher McCord, who purchased the building in 2013, has turned his attention to returning the site to its former glory. The project was originally lead by a group of volunteers who have been dedicated to historic building preservation and ensuring the integrity of the original building.

In the dining room, walls have been repainted and the original terrazzo flooring restored. The rest of the room is original and available to be adored for years to come, McCord noted.

On Easter Sunday, March 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the dining room will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a replication of the original grand opening, that includes lunch, fellowship and music provided by the Great Bend High School

orchestra. The menu includes: ham, beef tips, chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes and gravy, cheesy potatoes and macaroni and cheese, with sides of corn, green beans, a salad bar and cake ice cream for dessert. Reservations are required. Tickets are $25 per person, with ages 4-12 at $15 and children 0-3 free of charge. Reservations may be made by visiting the Wolf Hotel’s Facebook page.

Ellinwood Area Chamber of Commerce

The Ellinwood Area Chamber of Commerce Board is a dedicated group of local members who are passionate about promoting and serving the town of Ellinwood and its businesses. With the assistance of a parttime Chamber Director, they work together to support and promote the economic health of the city.

The Chamber’s main responsibilities include:

Economic Development: The Chamber focuses on facilitating the growth of existing businesses while also encouraging the establishment of new ones. They aim to create a favorable environment for attracting business and industry to Ellinwood. Member Services: The Chamber is committed to serving the needs of its members by providing government advocacy,

networking opportunities, community development initiatives, and educational resources. They strive to enhance the professional, civic, cultural, and educational environment of Ellinwood.

Public Policy and Advocacy: The Chamber develops public policy positions and advocates for policies that support economic development, job growth, education,

and an enhanced quality of life in Ellinwood.

Networking and Community Engagement: Through events, networking opportunities, and community involvement, the Chamber encourages meaningful connections among businesses and residents, promoting economic well-being and community development.

The Chamber’s motto, “CONNECT - IMPACT

- THRIVE,” reflects its commitment to creating opportunities for meaningful business connections, promoting the economic wellbeing of its members, and enhancing the community brand and image.

By joining the Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce, businesses gain a dedicated partner focused on helping them succeed in the local

community. Through collaboration and support, the Chamber aims to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Ellinwood and its businesses.

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Larned Chamber works for, with community

The Larned Area Chamber of Commerce (1947) and Pawnee County Economic Development Commission (1989) were organized for the purpose of advancing the commercial, industrial, and civic interests of Pawnee County and the surrounding areas. Together, we work hand-in-hand to better Pawnee County and the businesses, organizations and individuals who call our community home.

Larned Area Chamber of Commerce

Our Chamber is focused on serving our Chamber Members and overall community. In 2023, we had a total of 158 Chamber Members. We coordinated new events in addition to our annual events including the Antique Show, Business Easter Egg Hunt, Art Walk, Santa Fe Trail Days, Street Dance, Last Chance Golf Tournament, Moonlight Madness, Chamber Banquet, Fall Frenzy, Christmas Celebration, Event Passport program, and more. Downtown Larned is alive with the sound of music, as we were able to purchase new speakers. We have continued our partnership with now 59 other Chambers across the state of Kansas to offer Chamber Blue of Kansas Health Insurance to help with employee recruitment and retention for our members through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. We’ve been a resource to our businesses and organizations through state-wide revitalization grants. Not to mention we

have distributed nearly $19,000 in Larned Area Chamber Bucks. Two of our local spending initiatives brought money back into our Chamber businesses amounting to more than $272,500. Not to mention, we celebrated six ribbon cuttings, 48 coffee hours, and three afterhours. The Larned Area Chamber is always looking for ways to positively impact our members and enhance our community.

Pawnee County Economic Development Commission (PCEDC)

The Pawnee County Economic Development Commission aims to enhance Pawnee County through growth and retention through development and entrepreneurship opportunities. PCEDC is one of more than 70 E-Communities in Kansas. As an E-Community, we have access to funding opportunities, resources, and a wide network of connections for entrepreneurs of all ages. Pawnee County E-Community has access to a regional loan fund for businesses. We have administered E-Community loans to help local businesses open their doors. In 2023, we approved an E-Community Loan to assist Diamond Ag Research. We hosted another very successful Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge for our Pawnee County students in 7th –12th grade. Alongside area businesses and community members, we established the Pawnee County Childcare Coalition and have received $51,500 in grant funds for advancing childcare in Pawnee County. We are

Hydro-Chem

Hydro-Chem is a premier provider of spray services in Great Bend, Kansas, and surrounding areas, offering comprehensive solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. With over four decades of experience, Owned and operated by Mike Snyder, Hydro-Chem has established itself as a trusted name in the industry, delivering unparalleled expertise and quality service to its clients.

Hydro-Chem’s mission is to make lawns, business properties, or industrial campuses thrive with healthy, full growth throughout

the season. They are committed to excellence, utilizing cutting-edge technology and proven methodologies to deliver results that exceed expectations. Their services include:

Residential Spray Services: Hydro-Chem specializes in enhancing the beauty and vitality of residential outdoor spaces. Their expert team provides tailored solutions such as seasonal fertilizations, broadleaf weed control, and pre-emergent applications to ensure lush, vibrant lawns that go beyond mere aesthetics.

Hydro-Chem also offers top-notch spray

constantly working with local, regional and state contacts to collaborate on opportunities for funding, incentives, and area resources.

Together, both organizations aim to create strong and vibrant communities throughout Pawnee County, where businesses thrive because of community support by the creation of new commerce and jobs, growth of community life, retention, expansion, and prosperity of agricultural production, and agribusiness, and the retention, expansion, and prosperity of businesses and institutions existing in the county.

We depend on the individuals, organizations, and businesses in order for our organizations to be effective.

Pawnee County is a place that continues to grow stronger, even when faced with adversity. Together, we’re able to achieve more.

We’re excited to continue our efforts into 2024, with the addition of new programs and events, working towards the creation of private downtown housing through a HEAL Grant, work shops, childcare, tourism, downtown task forces, and more. Please contact us if you’re in need of information regarding employment, housing, business retention and expansion, tourism, entrepreneurship, community events, and more. Visit us at 502 Broadway, Larned, contact us at 620-2856916, larnedcofc@gbta. net, www.larnedks.org, and connect with us on Facebook!

services for commercial and industrial properties. They provide specialized treatments, including season-long bare ground control, to maintain clean and well-maintained environments for businesses and industrial facilities.

Whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial spray services, Hydro-Chem is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each property. With their wealth of knowledge and experience, Hydro-Chem continues its tradition of excellence, ensuring the satisfaction of its clients for many years to come.

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Larned Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Pawnee County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge each March.

Delgado’s Mexican Restaurant to soon celebrate 30 years

Delgado’s Mexican Restaurant, located at 2210 10th St. in Great Bend, Kansas, is a cherished establishment in the local community. Delgado’s has been serving the community since October 1994. The restaurant owned by Terri and Beaver Delgado, has a rich history that dates back to 1967 when Beaver’s parents, Pancho and Alberta Delgado, started feeding Great Bend residents with their restaurant, Panchos. Beaver grew up in the family business, working alongside his parents until they closed Panchos after 30 years of operation.

Following this, Beaver and Terri worked at Kiowa Kitchen, then owned by Beaver’s brother and his wife, Frank and Gwini Delgado, another iconic Mexican restaurant in Great Bend. Eventually, Beaver and Terri, opened a business at the current location, transforming it into Delgado’s Mexican Restaurant, a place where people could enjoy delicious food and beverages.

What started as a small beer joint evolved into a full-fledged restaurant thanks to the support of local patrons. Known for their exceptional pork chili and hot, freshly made chips, Delgado’s has become a favorite dining spot in Great Bend. Their commitment to quality extends to their catering services, which can accommodate small gatherings or large events.

“Since 1994 we have been offering exceptional quality Mexican food with fresh ingredients, homemade flour or corn tortilla chips. Catering is available seven days a week. You can order your food to go, or dine inside and enjoy our quaint, family-friendly environment,” said Terri. Delgado’s Mexican Restaurant operates Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Additionally, they offer catering services Monday through Saturday a week. For more information, individuals can contact them at 620-793-3786.

Farmers Bank & Trust

Farmers Bank & Trust, established over 116 years ago, has become a cornerstone of Central and Eastern Kansas, boasting assets approaching one billion dollars. Ranked 16th in size among Kansas banks, it maintains a robust capital base, nearly double the requirement, enabling it to cater to a wide spectrum of customer needs, ranging from simple to intricate financial relationships.

Expanding beyond traditional community banking services, Farmers Bank & Trust also operates a division specializing in long-term home loans, serving both local and

national markets.

Catering to a diverse clientele, including consumers, retailers, manufacturers, farmers, energy producers, real estate investors, and commercial enterprises, Farmers Bank & Trust operates in eight central Kansas communities and Overland Park, Kansas, where it delivers personalized service, resources, and support.

The bank’s team, composed of seasoned professionals, is committed to providing exceptional customer service across various markets. Farmers Bank & Trust, with its

Equity Bank

Equity Bank serves residents of four states, including Kansas, but has never lost sight of the values that originally paved the way to their success. These include integrity, accountability, and community focus, things that are sorely missed by customers of typical large financial institutions. Holding on to these fundamental values allows Equity Bank to keep growing without compromising the level of service offered to each of its individual customers.

“At Equity Bank we are proud to be a part of the communities we

Regional President Shawn Powelson said.

“We believe we are uniquely positioned to offer a combination of service and technology that sets us apart. We are committed to being a financial partner with each and every customer and we never forget it’s your money.” With over 70 locations, including 37 in Kansas, and two in Great Bend, customers of Equity Bank can rest assured that a local branch will be close at hand to help answer questions, make withdrawals and deposits, or speak about financial

strategic combination of banking and mortgage operations, positions itself as a leader in the industry. Understanding customers’ evolving needs, Farmers Bank & Trust offers innovative products and solutions to ensure financial success, irrespective of complexity.

Reflecting on its rich history, Farmers Bank & Trust traces its origins to a small bank in central Kansas with a humble $10,000 capital. Initially focused on agricultural lending, it has since expanded into a regional powerhouse with a diverse portfolio of ventures.

in 2001. Farmers Bank & Trust has upheld its legacy of supporting two locations in Great Bend, Albert, Larned, LaCrosse, Kinsley and

the best way to achieve them.

While Equity Bank strives to maintain the level of service typically associated with community financial institutions, they also recognize the importance of staying up to date with the latest financial technology, products, and services. A few of the benefits Equity Bank customers appreciate include: Personal Savings/ Checking, Digital Banking, Credit/Loans, and Business Accounts. Visit them at 1321 Main St. or 725 McKinley St. in Great Bend or call at 620-

contributing to community prosperity, building on its legacy of service and integrity.

GBED: paving the way for entrepreneurs of today and tomorrow

Entrepreneurial Mindset Classes, participants are challenged to ‘think like an entrepreneur.’ These classes go beyond theory; successful entrepreneurs serve as guest speakers, sharing insights and examples from their startup experiences, and providing a unique opportunity for class participants to engage and ask questions.

Action & Structure Ideas, no matter how innovative, need a clear path for realization. GBED propels entrepreneurs from ideation to action through programs like CO.STARTERS

Core and Boot Camp. These initiatives offer a structured journey through business fundamentals, encouraging entrepreneurs to start small and embrace the concept of failing fast. The emphasis is on providing tangible opportunities for idea implementation, ensuring ventures have a robust foundation.

Support & Transfer

As businesses take shape, GBED identifies the need for sustained support. Strategic partnerships with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), NetWork Kansas, Central Kansas Development, Inc (CKDI), and Great Plains Development, Inc. (GPDI) provide entrepreneurs with specialized resources, including business counseling, grants, and low-interest funding.

GBED actively facilitates knowledge transfer, connecting business owners with the SBDC for succession planning, ensuring long-term success.

Programs, Partners, and Funding Opportunities

GBED’s suite of

programs is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources for success.

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Classes and CO.STARTERS programs lay the foundation for aspiring entrepreneurs. The IGNITE Rural Business Competition empowers entrepreneurs and contributes to

economic growth. Strategic partnerships with SBDC, NetWork Kansas, CKDI, and GPDI enhance GBED’s reach, providing entrepreneurs with a network of support.

Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC)

In tandem with IGNITE, the return of the

Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC), offers Barton County students in grades 7-12 a platform to showcase their entrepreneurial skills. This unique opportunity allows students to present innovative business ideas, with the chance to win cash prizes totaling $2500. GBED believes in the power of education and

entrepreneurship to shape the community’s future. Students can have a mentor, collaborate with local businesses, and contribute to the growth of entrepreneurial spirit. The YEC judging and tradeshow on March 6th, 2024, will feature innovative business pitches and the announcement of winners, including a People’s Choice Award voted on by attendees.

In conclusion, Great Bend Economic Development’s commitment to providing a path for every starter, coupled with innovative programs and strategic partnerships, solidifies its role as a catalyst for entrepreneurial success in Barton County, Kansas. Whether nurturing the creative minds of today or empowering the entrepreneurs of tomorrow, GBED’s impact resonates throughout the community, fostering a culture of innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience. For more information on any of the programs listed above, IGNITE, Core, or YEC, visit www.gbedinc.

com About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development): Our goal is to sustain Barton County’s longterm economic health and vitality through the retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses and development that enhance property values, increase personal income, and positively contribute to the citizens’ quality of life of Barton County. For more information about GBED visit: www. gbedinc.com, call 620796-2407, or email marketing@gbedinc.com.

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