Kansas Rep. Tory Marie Arnberger (R-Great Bend) brought some business to Great Bend this past week when the Dwight D. Eisenhower Excellence in Public Service Series held a session here.

The series is designed to provide leadership training for outstanding women. One of its goals is to prepare women leaders to seek new levels of involvement in government and politics. That’s a worthwhile pursuit that is sure to result in more women being informed and equipped to serve at the local or state level and beyond.

Even those who don’t run for office are more involved in grassroots support, Arnberger said.

A class of 22 women was invited and 15 of them arrived in Great Bend on Friday evening, Nov. 13, for dinner and the opening program, presented by Marisel Walston, president of the Eisenhower Board of Governors. They topped off the evening with a tour of Great Bend. Downtown stores reopened as the group shopped at our stores and visited the yet-to-open Dry Lake Brewing microbrewery.

This was the first time the series had met in Great Bend and for some participants it was their first visit to Barton County. Arnberger said they came away with a favorable impression of our fair city.

We miss the days when large conventions came to town but this gathering was perfect for 2020. It was small enough that everyone could maintain social distancing while listening to programs. The topics chosen – such as agriculture, oil and water – are important no matter where you live but especially to rural Kansas, so our speakers could offer a first-hand perspective.

Attendees also heard the Eisenhower Series Alumni Report from Great Bend’s Kristy Blakeslee, class of 2013. She’s the owner of local businesses Central Kansas Whitetails, Triple Creek Outfitters and Straub’s Powersports.

Fellowship, networking, learning, new experiences – these things happened last weekend on a small scale in the heart of Great Bend. Like a pebble tossed into Veterans Lake, the event may soon be forgotten. On the other hand, who knows how far the ripples will spread? 

To learn more about The Eisenhower Series online visit theeisenhowerseries.org.