A little over a decade ago, Shannon Somers thought it would be a good idea for the Family Crisis Center (FCC) to host a major fundraiser to support victims of abuse.

As the FCC’s financial director, Somers realized the importance of private donations and the first result of the fundraising effort was Ladies’ Night Red Shoes and Bunco Too, which is in its 10th year.

The second result is the Men’s Night Out Cornhole fundraiser, which is in its second year.

Tickets are available now for both events. Ladies’ bunco is set for 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 27; men’s cornhole begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28. Both will be hosted at the Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th.

The cost for each is $60 or a combo ticket for $100.

“That first year we had 10 bunco tables with 12 players each and now we are up to 40 tables, also with 12 players,” Somers said. “We suggest getting tickets early; the past few years we have sold out pretty fast.”

A group of 12 is not necessary. For example, a group of six might sit with another group of six. Those who wear red shoes receive an extra drink ticket.

Some women may shy away from playing bunco because they don’t know the rules. “But players quickly realize it is a game of chance and no skills are needed. They just roll the dice,” Somers emphasized.

Cornhole attracted about 100 men last year; this year’s goal is 150-200. A participant can bring a partner or team up with someone at the event. There is a $20 buy-in for the tournament. Winner takes the pot.

“We added this men’s event because we want to help them understand what we do at the Family Crisis Center,” Somers explained. “As participants learned more about the scope of our services for children and adults, they gave generously to the cause.”

Auctions/raffles Donations are being accepted for the ladies’ silent auction and the men’s live auction.

“These can be in any price range,” said Kylee Graves, FCC executive director. “The families we serve appreciate any contribution that helps us support victims of domestic, sexual and child abuse.”

Bidding for the women’s silent auction begins March 22; the men’s live auction is available only at the event.

Raffle tickets also are available now. Prizes are a Louis Vuitton purse and a cornhole set. Winners don’t have to be present.

Purse tickets are $25 each and five for $100. Cornhole tickets are $20 each and three for $50. Sponsorships are available too.

“Participants in these fundraisers at any level can be assured that every dollar raised directly helps local victims,” Graves said. “Community donations are especially important now because federal and state grants continue to be cut. This type of funding is never guaranteed but the need continues to grow.”

More information Last year, 975 victims were helped in the FCC’s 11-county service area, which entails Barton, Barber, Comanche, Edwards, Ellsworth, Kiowa, Ness, Pawnee, Pratt, Rush and Stafford counties.

Services include the Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Center and Child Advocacy Center. “Our women’s shelter is vital to our communities, as is the work we do in 21 school districts,” Graves noted. “We trust in the generosity of central Kansans, which allows us to offer these programs and expand in the future.”

The FCC, 1924 Broadway in Great Bend, has set up a website and link to buy tickets; make an auction bid; offer a sponsorship; and answer additional questions. That site is: https://handbid.app.link/RedShoes2026. The FCC’s phone number is 620-793-9941; the 24-hour crisis hotline is 866-792-1885.

Tickets available for Family Crisis Center's ladies’ bunco, men’s cornhole events

Tyler Morton is always trying to recruit more young people to join Barton County Youth Crew because he has seen first-hand the many positive results of the group’s community and school projects.

In his role as prevention advocate at Juvenile Services, Morton recently took his recruitment efforts up a notch by contacting a past and a current member of Youth Crew to share their experiences.

“Jasmine Figueroa and Mya Brewer are just two of many examples of the value of Youth Crew,” Morton said. “We provide guidance but this is a youth-led group; they are in charge. They come up with ideas and implement them in their schools and communities.

“They learn about being a leader, working as a team and finding new ways to prevent the misuse of alcohol, drugs and tobacco. We have something for everyone.”

Jasmine Figueroa Jasmine Figueroa joined Youth Crew in 2021 at the beginning of her freshman year at Great Bend High School because of its emphasis on leadership and fostering community change.

“I have always been interested in volunteering and getting involved; Youth Crew felt like the perfect opportunity,” Figueroa said. “We took a deep dive into substance misuse and strategic prevention frameworks for our county. And from there, everything really took off.”

Today, Figueroa is a 19-year-old freshman at Pittsburg State University where she is majoring in human resource development (HRD), with minors in biology and public health.

Her goal is to earn an HRD degree, and a master’s and doctorate in healthcare administration. “I value training and developing people in ways that strengthen not only organizations but also the communities they serve.”

As she recalls the early days of high school, Figueroa said that “without a doubt, joining Youth Crew was one of the best opportunities I have ever taken. I developed strong leadership skills and learned how to effectively communicate with legislators, work with data and help create meaningful community plans.

“I was given the opportunity to experience incredible moments such as speaking as a keynoter in Washington, D.C., traveling to multiple training conferences, and serving on state and national committees.”

However, she added, the most important aspect of Youth Crew was the changes she witnessed in Great Bend.

“I have seen more youth become actively invested in the well-being of their schools and peers,” she explained. “I am forever grateful to the entire Youth Crew organization for the role it has played in shaping my life.”

Mya Brewer Mya Brewer’s reasons for joining Youth Crew vary from Figueroa’s but they help illustrate the range of opportunities it provides.

Brewer is a 14-year-old eighth-grader at Hoisington Middle School who became a Youth Crew member in 2023.

“I joined Youth Crew because I grew up with addiction and recovery in my family,” Brewer said. “When I heard about Youth Crew, I knew it would be a good way to bring awareness to youth and prevent kids from falling into the same patterns their families have.

“I am glad I joined because I have always wanted to make a positive impact in the world. Youth Crew is a perfect way to do that. I highly encourage my peers to join Youth Crew and get involved in our community.”

After high school, Brewer plans to further her education at cosmetology school. “I want to earn my license and be a professional cosmetologist.”

More information Some examples of Youth Crew’s local projects are the Kickball Tournament; Lei Off Tobacco; Egg-a-Palooza; hosting a Youth Leaders in Kansas conference in Hoisington; and raising awareness at exhibit booths at a number of community events.

Members also have traveled to state and national conferences.

Youth Crew now has 35 members and Tyler Morton and his colleagues are shooting for at least 50. Anyone in grades 6-12 is welcome.

“If you want to bring about change, do something special and offer new ideas for local projects, Youth Crew can accommodate,” Morton commented. “This is a great group for school and civic engagement.

“Young people can demonstrate they care about their communities and discover what it takes to be a leader. This has to start somewhere and Youth Crew is a great somewhere.”

For more information, contact Morton by calling 620-786-4033 or 620-793-1930.

20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

Barton County Youth Crew seeks more members to lead local projects

By ELLE HUTCHINSON Barton County Media Consultant

Barton County recently hosted its Annual Township Meeting, bringing together township officials, county department leaders, and members of the Barton County Commission for updates, information sharing, and coordinated planning. The meeting serves as an important opportunity for townships to hear directly from county staff, ask questions, and stay informed on services and initiatives that impact their&nbsp;communities.

Opening remarks and departmental updates were provided by Chris Schartz, county works director, and Marty Michaelis, noxious weed department supervisor.

Their presentations covered current road and bridge operations, maintenance priorities, and ongoing weed management efforts across the county.

Joshua Beckman, county engineer, provided an engineering update, offering insight into infrastructure planning, project coordination, and technical considerations relevant to township needs.

An overview of Environmental Management and zoning was presented by Mark Cooper, environmental field technician, followed by a Clerk’s Office update from Bev Schmeidler, county clerk, who shared information related to elections, township administration, and record-keeping.

Wendy Prosser, county appraiser, provided an update on appraisal processes and valuation-related topics, while BJ Wooding, GIS specialist and cartographer, highlighted county mapping resources, the county website, and the use of ORKA aerial imagery to support data accuracy and planning.

The meeting concluded with updates from Dena Popp, 911 director, who discussed advancements in emergency services, including text-to-911 and video capabilities, county addressing, and the use of what3words to assist dispatchers and first responders with precise location identification.

The Annual Township Meeting reflects Barton County’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and proactive communication, ensuring townships have the information and support needed to effectively serve their residents.

 Barton County hosts annual township meeting



On Feb. 13,&nbsp;Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland kicks off the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie Season&nbsp;as Girl Scouts explore more possibilities through the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world.

Exploremores™, a rocky road ice cream–inspired sandwich cookie, will join the legendary lineup for the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie season beginning Feb. 13 - March 22. Filled with delicious flavors of chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond–flavored crème, Exploremores reflect the spirit of exploration at the heart of every Girl Scout. In addition to the exciting new cookie, the 2026 cookie lineup will include fan favorites such as&nbsp;Thin Mints®, Caramel deLites®, Peanut Butter Patties® and more. Cookies are $6 per package and all of the proceeds after paying the baker stay in Kansas to support our local Girl Scouts.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program&nbsp;®&nbsp;provides invaluable entrepreneurial skills for Girl Scouts across the country and funds experiences such as service projects, troop travel, and summer camp. From a curious kindergartener, amazed by jellyfish at the local aquarium, to a middle schooler finding the courage to go on her first overnight trip with her troop, Girl Scouts know the road to discovery starts with exploration. Each cookie season, Girl Scouts develop important life skills like goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics through the Girl Scout Cookie Program. 

All proceeds from cookie sales power Girl Scouts’ amazing experiences year-round.&nbsp;Right now, Girl Scouts all over the world are exploring who they are, what they can do and all they can become.&nbsp;Your purchase helps them make the world a better place — one box of cookies at a time.&nbsp;

How to Purchase Girl Scout Cookies This Year

Share Something Sweet with Kansans Since the Care &amp; Share program began in 2010, customers have donated more than 200,000 packages of cookies to members of the military and local charities. In 2025 alone, approximately 7,500 packages were distributed through the program.

Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland gives cookie customers the option of sharing the sweet treats with those in the healthcare industry, service men and women, their families and local charities like the Kansas Food Bank. Customers can simply purchase a package of cookies to donate and Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland handles the rest.

Girls in grades K–12 can start their journey to fun, friendship, and new experiences by joining the world's largest entrepreneurial organization for girls at any point in the year. Life’s more fun when you explore more! Unbox the future with Girl Scouts by joining the world’s largest girl-led organization or learn how to become a volunteer at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click.email.girlscouts.org/?qs=eyJkZWtJZCI6IjcwMDJlODgzLTY5MjMtNDI1Ni1iYmRhLWJjZWIxZTExZDVmNyIsImRla1ZlcnNpb24iOjEsIml2IjoiaVJpdFZyNkdDZ0w0elhkUlFza1VUdz09IiwiY2lwaGVyVGV4dCI6IjNPY2RCT2R0cTlBak82YVVMSGM3MWJ0SmVkVjkrYjVWL2JWQTRtbEd4RnVUTlhuczdQYm1ERTd2V2FBS1ZXekFhQVBUU1pvRlplZDRCaDFBb21YcWpQLzVYSWtZclZhK2hnb0MrTTEzVVVMSkZFOD0iLCJhdXRoVGFnIjoiU1pvRlplZDRCaDFBb21YcWpQLzVYQT09In0%3D">www.kansasgirlscouts.org</a>.&nbsp;

About Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland serves more than 10,000 members in 80 Kansas counties through its operational headquarters in Wichita, Kan., and regional offices in Salina, Hays, and Garden City. Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts is the leading authority on girls’ healthy development and is the pre-eminent leadership development organization for girls. Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

2026 Girl Scout Cookie Season kicks off on Feb. 13 with new, familiar flavors

Booked Cannon, Dennis on Saline County District Court warrants #SA2025TR002553 for Failure to appear. bond set at $750.00 Cash or Surety and Saline County District Court warrant #SA2025CR0639 for Failure to appear. Bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety. And Salina Municipal Court warrant #2025TRM0-02398 for Driving while Suspended. Bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Cannon, Dennis on Saline County District Court warrants #SA2025TR002553 for Failure to appear. by posting a $750.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. And Saline County District Court warrant #SA2025CR0639 for Failure to appear. By posting a $10,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. And Salina Municipal Court warrant #2025TRM0-02398 for Driving while Suspended, By posting a $500.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked in Kuhn, Bonnie M. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0352 for Contempt of Court Indirect, bond set at NO BOND and Barton County District Court warrant #BT2023CR0384 for Contempt of Court Indirect, bond set at NO BOND.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/10)

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 54. Light and variable wind becoming south southeast 6 to 11 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Wednesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 34. South southeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. South southeast wind 7 to 9 mph becoming north northwest in the afternoon. Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 57. Friday Night A 50 percent chance of showers. Cloudy, with a low around 39.

Saturday Showers likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Chance of precipitation is 60%

Wednesday's weather

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir and the board of
commissioners have some big decisions to make. Last month, a local contractor
installed three industrial-sized water softeners inside the Barton County
Detention Center. On Saturday, Bellendir was notified of plumbing issues inside
the facility. That prompted a nearly hour-long special commission meeting
Monday morning.

“So we’re clear on this fact, I do not have raw sewage
running around in the jail,” Bellendir told the board. “We’re not flooding the
jail with the contaminated water. This is fresh water that is coming in and has
gravel in it, which has already been in the water all along because it was in
the water softener before it came out. So, we do not have a sewage problem, we
have a water-flow problem, and we’re working our way around it.”

The inner tank of a water softening tank includes gravel and
porous resin-coated beads that absorb the minerals in tap water. The salt associated with water softeners is used to
break down the minerals trapped in the inner tank. At the jail, Bellendir
estimates between 200 and 300 pounds of the gravel and resin found its way into
the plumbing.

“What has happened is gravel and resin has infiltrated all
of the air-controlled valves in the facility, which is unfortunately where all
the inmates are held,” said Bellendir. “We don’t know what it’s done to our
kitchen appliances because we have commercial dishwashers, we have commercial plumbing
fixtures; we’re set up just like a restaurant.”

Bellendir explained that the air-controlled valves are
central to the problem. The jail does not use soft water for inmate comfort,
but rather for the air-controlled valves, which give staff a level of control over
water usage in the facility. The valves, which are sensitive to contamination,
also prohibit inmates from flooding the jail. Some of the jail’s several
hundred valves may be repairable, and some may need replaced.

“There are probably not enough kits in the state of Kansas
to fix everything in my jail at this point,” Bellendir said. “We don’t know.”

By Saturday night, the jail was down to six working toilets
for 81 inmates. Bellendir was unsure if and when he would have to begin moving
inmates to other facilities. Using buckets, inmates and staff were able to flush
toilets, but Bellendir said coordinating escorted bathroom visits for 81
inmates presents problems of its own.

The sheriff appeared before the commission Monday morning
because the problem is a relatively unique one for the county.

“Typically, under Kansas statute, the sheriff is required to
maintain his facility,” Bellendir explained. “You give me a budget to do that. Infrastructure
and capital improvement is a county commission deal. We are definitely into the
infrastructure and improvement area.”

The local contractor that installed the softeners has
continued to work inside the detention center throughout the weekend. Bellendir’s
staff has scoured Great Bend and neighboring counties for required hardware so
the plumbers can remain on site. The goal as of Monday morning was to open the
lines and flush out as much gravel and resin as possible.

“It’s all concrete,” said Bellendir. “Some of it has floor
drains and some of it does not, but we’re basically going to flood the jail
with as much water as we think we have to, to try and clear these lines. We don’t
know if that’s going to work. Once it’s cleared, we’re going to button
everything back up, repair the valves that we think need repaired, reinstall
the valves we think don’t need prepared, then see what we have.”

Bellendir explained the matter is further complicated by security
issues inside the detention center. The plumbing runs through the facility’s
ceiling, and getting to the hardware will likely require cutting through expanded
steel in the walls. Further, the jail is 21 years old and run like a hotel with
100 percent occupancy every day of the year, so some pipes have deteriorated. 

Then, there are the inmates. Bellendir acknowledged the
county must take steps to ensure no inmate civil rights are violated while they
are in custody. The inmates may also have hearings scheduled in Barton County
and beyond. Bellendir said it will be very costly to move inmates, both
financially and in terms of manpower.

“My thoughts are, with your permission, is to tell the
contractor to do what is necessary to get us back online,” Bellendir said
Monday. “If that includes cutting out some of our plumbing, changing out some
of our control valves, whatever we need to do to get us back online. I do not
have that in my budget.”

The commission took no direct action Monday with the lone
goal of keeping the jail functional for staff and inmates. Bellendir said costs
could reach tens of thousands of dollars or even hundreds of thousands of
dollars if large portions of plumbing need to be replaced. Who is liable for
the expenses will be determined at a later date.

Barton County working through significant plumbing issues at detention center

Now is the time to finalize plans for kochia control. In western Kansas, kochia is among the first summer annual weeds to emerge in the spring. Recent research suggests that kochia can begin emerging in early February, with most kochia emerging by late April. Kochia seedlings have been observed as early as February 7 in southwest Kansas.

Good control of the first dense flush of kochia is essential for obtaining a good crop yield. Early-emerging seedlings use the limited spring soil moisture in dryland production fields. Kochia seedlings emerge in dense populations, making adequate herbicide coverage difficult. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia is prevalent across western Kansas, making kochia control even more challenging. For these reasons, it is important to apply preemergence herbicides in late winter or early spring to control kochia before it emerges.

Herbicide program components to effectively manage kochia at germination. To successfully manage kochia, an herbicide program needs two components:

1. a very soluble and effective herbicide that can be incorporated with very little precipitation, such as dicamba; and

2. an herbicide that has longer residual activity, which will require perhaps 0.75 inches or more precipitation for adequate incorporation, such as atrazine.

Precipitation events during late winter are often too small to activate longer-lasting residual herbicides, but dicamba may control kochia for 4 to 6 weeks until atrazine is incorporated.

The best time to apply herbicides for kochia control is prior to kochia emergence, generally January through the first week of March, but this depends on weather conditions. Later applications, for example, at the time of burndown, are more likely to occur after kochia emergence, which increases the risk of control failure. Fall-applied treatments can help ensure timely application; however, they are not likely to control later flushes of kochia effectively.

Other herbicides with good preemergence kochia activity include: mesotrione (Callisto, others), metribuzin (Sencor, others), saflufenacil (Sharpen), sulfentrazone (Spartan, others). Be sure to check product labels for crop-specific planting intervals. For example, sulfentrazone requires a 10 to 18-month rotation interval to corn.

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

For more information on controlling kochia, see the 2026 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland, K-State publication SRP1194.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430

CAMPBELL: Pre-plant herbicide applications for kochia control

Barton Community College kicked off Career and Technical Education Month by hosting the 11th Annual Career Fair on campus Friday.

A total of 448 students in grades 8-12 attended the event, which highlighted Barton’s career and technical education programs through hands-on activities, classroom experiences, and interaction with faculty, staff, and community partners. The event offered students an engaging look at career pathways and training opportunities available through Barton.

Barton Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said hosting a Career Fair for students in grades 8–12 has been a key part of Barton’s CTE Month celebration for more than a decade. Since the first event in 2016, when approximately 200 students registered, the Career Fair has grown significantly.

“Each year, we include more programs, more activities, and more volunteers,” she said.&nbsp; “We have experimented yearly to meet any challenges or changes we see in order to help the event keep evolving.&nbsp; It’s all about helping students explore careers that they may not know about in some way, shape, or form, or introduce them to something new.”

February is recognized nationally as Career and Technical Education Month, and Barton’s Workforce Training and Community Education Division celebrates throughout the month by recognizing students, team members, and advisory board partners who support career technical programs. Career and technical education at Barton focuses on preparing youth and adults with the skills and training needed for today’s workforce.

Volunteers from across campus and area communities supported the event by leading student groups and assisting throughout the day in various ways.

Little said the Career Fair allows students to explore opportunities they never even dreamed of before.

“Sometimes people see employees, in various industries, without thinking about how they arrived there, or how just one instance can set someone on a path to a rewarding occupation,” she said. “My hope is that this event opens students’ eyes, or maybe even their parents’ eyes as well, to career paths they may never have considered. It excites me to think that somewhere on campus that day, a student might pick up a hammer for the first time, count and measure medications they’d never imagined working with, or feel the thrill of climbing into an ambulance simulator and discover the spark that lights up their future.”

Instructional programs were central to the Career Fair, welcoming students into classrooms and labs for interactive learning experiences. Faculty and program leaders collaborated with industry partners to engage students across a wide range of academic and technical fields.

Students were able to explore agriculture and commercial transportation; construction and energy trades; healthcare and allied health; computer science, STEM, and aviation; public service and emergency response; education and the arts; and business and communications.

To learn more or become a part of next year’s Career Fair, reach out to Little at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:littlek@bartonccc.edu">littlek@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9294.

Barton celebrates Career and Technical Education Month with 11th annual Career Fair

The USD 428 Board of Education recognized Tacoa Underwood with a R.O.S.E. (Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education) Award during its meeting Monday evening.

The R.O.S.E. Award was created as part of the Board of Education’s ongoing efforts to honor individuals or groups whose actions make a meaningful impact on the school district. Recipients exemplify exceptional dedication, awareness, and support of USD 428 students and staff.

Underwood was presented the award by Jefferson Elementary School Principal Adam Niedens, alongside Superintendent Khris Thexton, for her quick thinking and selfless actions that ensured a student’s safety.

While serving as Jefferson Elementary School's crossing guard on 24th Street after school, Underwood observed a vehicle fail to stop at a red light as students were crossing. A student had already stepped several feet into the roadway when she recognized the danger. Without hesitation, Underwood placed herself at risk and quickly moved the student to safety, preventing a potentially serious accident.

“Tacoa’s awareness and courage reflect the very best of our school community,” said Superintendent Khris Thexton. “Her actions are exactly what the R.O.S.E. Award is meant to honor.”

On behalf of our staff, parents, and community, USD 428 extends its sincere gratitude to Tacoa Underwood for going above and beyond to prioritize student safety and for her unwavering commitment to protecting students.&nbsp;

This occurrence also serves as an opportunity to remind and encourage all drivers to remain alert and exercise extra caution near schools and in school zones, helping ensure the safety of students, staff, and families.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 428 Board of Education honors Tacoa Underwood with R.O.S.E. Award

Great Bend High School will celebrate its 2026 Winter Homecoming on&nbsp;Friday, Feb. 13, with an exciting evening of Panther basketball.

Homecoming festivities will take place during the basketball match-up featuring the&nbsp;Great Bend Panthers&nbsp;against the&nbsp;Garden City Buffaloes. The Varsity Girls basketball game will tip off at 6 p.m., followed by the Varsity Boys game at approximately 7:30 p.m.

The Homecoming Court will be introduced between games, with the Homecoming King and Queen crowned on center court at approximately 7 p.m.

Students, families, and community members are invited to join Great Bend High School for a night of celebration, tradition, and Panther pride.

For more information, please contact the Great Bend High School Activities Office at 620-793-1560.

Great Bend High School announces 2026 Winter Homecoming court

Now is the time to recognize those who go above and beyond! You can nominate a School Hero! On the fourth Tuesday of each month, Eagle Media will select a Hero to recognize! The winner will also receive $500! Nominate a School Hero is presented by: <a href="https://opikan.com/">OPI</a> (Office Products Incorporated) &amp; Golden Belt Printing.&nbsp;

Any adult who works at a school in Barton County is eligible to be nominated. Admin, Teachers, Para's, Coaches, Maintenance, Cafeteria, etc.

Nominate a School Hero! Presented by: OPI & Golden Belt Printing

Big Bend Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medial Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrants Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response

Make a Difference Contest 

- Greg Maxwell and the Ellinwood Girls Basketball Starting Five

- Trevor Rolfs, Barton CC Athletic Director

Wednesday on Sports Day

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas freshman&nbsp;Darryn Peterson&nbsp;has been named to the John R. Wooden Award Late Midseason Top 20 Watch List, the Los Angeles Athletic Club announced today.

Peterson is vying to become the third Kansas men's basketball player to earn the Wooden Award joining Danning Manning in 1988 and Frank Mason III in 2017.&nbsp; 

Peterson, the Big 12 Newcomer of the Week on Jan. 19&nbsp;and three-time Big 12 Starting Five weekly honoree this season, leads Kansas with a 20.5 point per game scoring average. The Canton, Ohio, guard who was Dick Vitale's Diaper Dandy of the Week on Feb. 12, has six games of 20 or more points and has made 36 threes in 13 games played this season.&nbsp; 

Peterson's national awards' watch lists include the Wooden Award, the Naismith Trophy, the NABC Division I Player of the Year, and the USBWA Oscar Robertson Trophy. Additionally, Peterson was recently named to the 10-member Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year Watch List. He entered the 2025-26 season as the Big 12 Preseason Freshman of the Year and unanimous Preseason All-Big 12 selection as selected by the league coaches.

The players on the Wooden list are considered strong candidates for the 2026 John R. Wooden Award Men's Player of the Year. Players not selected for the list remain eligible for inclusion on the Wooden Award and the National Ballot. The National Ballot will feature 15 top players who have demonstrated to their universities that they meet or exceed the Wooden Award qualifications.

Celebrating its 50th year, the Wooden Award will feature special programming throughout the season with first winner and ambassador Marques Johnson, culminating in the 2026 John R. Wooden Award presented by Principal. Winners and All Americans will be honored at the Los Angeles Athletic Club on Friday, April 10, 2026.

KU’s Peterson Named to John R. Wooden Award Late Midseason Top 20

Western Athletic Conference Boys Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Conf.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-4 Great Bend&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-8 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-8 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-9 Liberal&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-15 Tuesday, February 10 Great Bend 91, Dodge City 66 McPherson 60, Hays 44 Lakin 63, Liberal 58 Thursday, February 12 Guyman OK @ Dodge City Friday, February 13 Garden City @ Great Bend Hays @ Liberal Saturday, February 14 Woodward OK @ Garden City

WAC Boys Scores, Standings, Schedule

Western Athletic Conference Girls Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Conf.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-1 Liberal&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-2 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10-7 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8-10 Great Bend&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-15 Tuesday, February 10 Dodge City 47, Great Bend 40 Hays 51, McPherson 29 Liberal 61, Lakin 46 Thursday, February 12 Guyman OK @ Dodge City Friday, February 13 Garden City @ Great Bend Hays @ Liberal Saturday, February 14 Woodward OK @ Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;

WAC Girls Scores, Standings, Schedule

Now that the Seattle Seahawks have been crowned Super Bowl champions, it’s on to the 2026 season. That’ll kick off with the annual scouting combine in Indianapolis from Feb. 23-March 2. Free agency follows on March 9 with the two-day negotiating period. The annual league meeting begins on March 29 in Phoenix. The NFL draft is in Pittsburgh from April 23-25.

Seattle's Super Bowl victory over New England on Sunday night didn't break viewership records. The game averaged 124.9 million viewers across NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, NBC Sports Digital, and NFL+, according to Nielsen. This is less than the 127.7 million who watched Philadelphia beat Kansas City last year. Bad Bunny's halftime show also fell short of records. It averaged 128.2 million viewers, making it the fourth-most watched halftime show. Kendrick Lamar, Michael Jackson, and Usher hold the top three spots. Global viewership numbers for the halftime show are expected next week.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Victor Wembanyama scored 37 of his season high-tying 40 points in the first half and the San Antonio Spurs beat the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers 136-108 for their fifth straight victory. Wembanyama had the highest-scoring first half in the NBA this season while going 12 of 17 from the field with three 3-pointers against a Lakers lineup missing Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Wembanyama played only the first eight minutes of the second half with the Spurs far ahead in their 10th win in 13 games. Carter Bryant scored a career-high 16 points for the Spurs.

MILAN (AP) — The Canadian Olympic Committee said it is “heartbroken” by a school shooting in British Columbia that left at least seven people dead and many others wounded. Team Canada issued a statement at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Wednesday, the morning after the deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The committee says ‘We are heartbroken by the news of the horrific school shooting that occurred in British Columbia.’ Canadian authorities said there were 10 deaths in total on Tuesday. The school shooting left seven dead, authorities said, while two more people were found dead at a nearby home. A woman who police believe to be the shooter also was killed.

MILAN (AP) — Ilia Malinin has silenced any doubters of the self-styled “Quad God.” The American wunderkind threw down a near-perfect short program filled with high-flying jumps and a jaw-dropping backflip to take a big lead at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The two-time reigning world champion was rewarded with 108.16 points for his program. Yuma Kagiyama of Japan was second with 103.07 points, but that five-point difference going into the free skate is enormous given the huge technical advantage Malinin has over a longer program. Adam Siao Him Fa of France, the last skater to beat Malinin more than two years ago, was third with 102.55 points.

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Athletes at the Winter Olympics find themselves meeting Mother Nature on her own terms while trying to conquer her at the same time. Many of the competitors who fling themselves off the sides of mountains were first drawn to their sport simply by the love of being outside. Freestyle skier Eileen Gu describes trying to find a “oneness” with nature when she competes while at the same time trying to push the boundaries of what's possible. It is a fundamental part of the Winter Games that often is not seen in the Summer Olympics.

CHICAGO (AP) — Cardi B was part of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show. What she did exactly, well, that turned into a perplexing question for two major prediction markets. At least one Kalshi trader filed a complaint with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission over how the prediction market handled Sunday’s appearance by the Grammy-winning rapper. The result of a similar event contract on Polymarket also drew the ire of some users on that platform. There was some ambiguity surrounding whether Cardi B's halftime appearance constituted a performance, leading to the dispute.

LAKELAND, Fla. (AP) — Justin Verlander is going back to his first big league team, agreeing to a $13 million, one-year contract with the Detroit Tigers. Verlander, who turns 43 on Feb. 20, is looking to rebound from a frustrating year with San Francisco. The deal for the three-time AL Cy Young Award winner includes $11 million in deferred payments starting in 2030. Verlander’s 266 victories are tied with Bob Feller and Eppa Rixey for 34th on baseball’s career list, while his 3,553 career strikeouts are eighth and just behind Don Sutton's 3,574.

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — The Las Vegas Raiders introduced Klint Kubiak as their new head coach. Kubiak is fresh off a Super Bowl win with the Seahawks. He faces the challenge of reviving a team that hasn't won a playoff game since 2002. On Tuesday, he was joined by former Raiders stars such as Marcus Allen and Charles Woodson as he took the stage. Kubiak plans to hire new coordinators and decide on the No. 1 draft pick. Owner Mark Davis hinted at interest in quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Meanwhile, star player Maxx Crosby reportedly wants out, but Kubiak hopes to keep him in Las Vegas.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Tony Vitello walked up the dugout stairs to meet with reporters about 15 minutes later than expected because of a team meeting that went longer than planned. The new San Francisco Giants manager had a lot to say on the first day of spring training. He also knows he’s got a lot to learn. The 47-year-old is one of the more fascinating stories in baseball this spring. Vitello is making the rare jump straight from a college dugout to Major League Baseball. Before coming to the Bay Area, he built the Tennessee Volunteers into a national powerhouse. The Giants are trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021.

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(3)Houston	66	Utah	52	 Final	(4)Duke	70	Pittsburgh	54	 Final	TCU	62	(5)Iowa State	55	 Final	(13)Purdue	80	(7)Nebraska	77	 Final	Wisconsin	92	(8)Illinois	90	 Final	Miami (FL)	75	(11)North Carolina	66	 Final	(12)Gonzaga	83	Washington State	53	 Final	(15)Virginia	61	Florida State	58	 Final	(19)Vanderbilt	84	Auburn	76	 Final	(21)Arkansas	91	LSU	62	 Final	(22)BYU	99	Baylor	94

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Saturday, February 7 @ Ness City Macksville Girls 47, Ness City 20 Ellinwood Boys 61, Macksville 33 Victoria Girls 2, Chase 0 FORFEIT Otis-Bison Boys 71, Chase 11 Monday, February 9 @ Ness City Girls 9th Place - Ness City 2, Chase 0 FORFEIT Boys 9th Place - Macksville 71, Chase 34 Tuesday, February 10 @ Offerle Ellinwood Girls 71, Macksville 15 Central Plains Boys 60, Ellinwood 37 Central Plains Girls 50, Victoria 26 Lacrosse Boys 72, Ness City 59 Tuesday, February 10 @ Kinsley St. John Girls 53, Otis-Bison 19 St. John Boys 70, Otis-Bison 38 LaCrosse Girls 47, Kinsley 36 Victoria Boys 66, Kinsley 63 Thursday, February 12 (Consolation Bracket @ Offerle) 3:00 Macksville Girls vs Kinsley 4:30 Ellinwood Boys vs Kinsley&nbsp; 6:00 Victoria Girls vs Otis-Bison&nbsp; 7:30 Otis-Bison Boys vs Ness City&nbsp; Thursday, February 12 (Championship Bracket @ Kinsley) 3:00 Ellinwood Girls vs Lacrosse&nbsp; 4:30 Central Plains Boys vs Victoria 6:00 Central Plains Girls vs St. John 7:30 St. John Boys vs LaCrosse Friday, February 13&nbsp;(Consolation Bracket @ Offerle) 3:00 Girls 7th Place Game 4:30 Boys 7th Place Game 6:00 Girls 5th Place Game 7:30 Boys 5th Place Game Friday, February 13&nbsp;(Championship Bracket @ Kinsley) 3:00 Girls 3rd Place Game 4:30 Boys 3rd Place Game 6:00 Girls Championship 7:30 Boys Championship

Central Prairie League Tournament Scores & Schedule

Tuesday Boys scores from the Associated Press

Blue Valley Randolph 79, Washington County 54

Chase County 68, Marais des Cygnes Valley 24

Kapaun Mount Carmel 69, Wichita Bishop Carroll 57

Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 64, Riverton 55

Wichita Northwest 78, Wichita East 73, OT

Wichita Sunrise 66, Wichita Home School 53

---------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday Girls scores from the Associated Press

Blue Valley Randolph 46, Washington County 20

Tuesday Statewide Scores

Wednesday, February 11 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Fort Hays Tech W&amp;M @ Barton Thursday, February 12 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Friday, February 13 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Garden City G&amp;B @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Nickerson 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Pratt G&amp;B @ Larned 8:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Rising Stars All-Star Game Saturday, February 14 11:30AM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Iowa St.&nbsp;(KU Network) 11:30AM 1590/95.5FM - College Basketball - Kansas @ Iowa State (ESPN) 1:45PM KHOK -&nbsp;H.S. Basketball - Ellsworth G&amp;B @ Hoisington 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Barton W&amp;M @ Garden City 4:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA All Star Saturday Night Sunday, February 15 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA All Star Game Monday, February 16 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Tuesday, February 17 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Liberal G&amp;B @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hillsboro G&amp;B @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Haven G&amp;B @ Larned&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday, February 18 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:15PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Barton W&amp;M @ Butler 7:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Oklahoma St.&nbsp; Thursday, February 19 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Friday, February 20 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Great Bend G&amp;B @ Dodge City 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Hoisington Saturday, February 21 11:30AM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Cincinnati @ Kansas 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Independence W&amp;M @ Barton 7:00PM&nbsp;1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Houston @ NY Knicks Sunday, February 22 2:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Denver @ Golden State Monday, February 23 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 7:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Houston @ Kansas Tuesday, February 24 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Halstead 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Smoky Valley Wednesday, February 25 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:15PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Seward County W&amp;M @ Barton

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

AP Cincinnati Bearcats (12-12, 4-7 Big 12) at Kansas State Wildcats (10-13, 1-9 Big 12)

BOTTOM LINE: Kansas State faces Cincinnati after PJ Haggerty scored 30 points in Kansas State's 84-82 loss to the TCU Horned Frogs.

The Wildcats have gone 8-6 in home games. Kansas State is eighth in the Big 12 scoring 81.7 points while shooting 46.3% from the field.

The Bearcats are 4-7 in Big 12 play. Cincinnati is 0-3 in games decided by 3 points or fewer.

Kansas State averages 10.2 made 3-pointers per game, 2.7 more made shots than the 7.5 per game Cincinnati gives up. Cincinnati's 42.4% shooting percentage from the field this season is 3.0 percentage points lower than Kansas State has allowed to its opponents (45.4%).

The Wildcats and Bearcats face off Wednesday for the first time in conference play this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Haggerty is averaging 23.3 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the Wildcats. David Castillo is averaging 1.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Day Day Thomas is shooting 40.3% from beyond the arc with 2.2 made 3-pointers per game for the Bearcats, while averaging 10.9 points and 3.7 assists. Baba is averaging 13.9 points, 9.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Wildcats: 1-9, averaging 72.9 points, 27.4 rebounds, 16.5 assists, 6.8 steals and 3.1 blocks per game while shooting 42.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 83.9 points per game.

Bearcats: 4-6, averaging 67.4 points, 31.3 rebounds, 15.3 assists, 6.1 steals and 2.9 blocks per game while shooting 42.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 69.6 points.

Cincinnati visits Kansas State following Haggerty's 30-point performance

Hoisington Boys 62 Haven 46; Haven Girls 55 Hoisington 44

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NEW YORK (AP) — James Van Der Beek, a heartthrob who starred in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/television">coming-of-age dramas</a>&nbsp;at the dawn of the new millennium, shooting to fame playing the titular character in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/michelle-williams-comments-on-james-van-der-beeks-cancer-diagnosis-e444132cc5154efa973fba7251e04139">“Dawson’s Creek”</a>&nbsp;and in later years mocking his own hunky persona, has died. He was 48.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come,” a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/vanderjames/p/DUoR_x4EkTm/">statement from the actor's family</a>&nbsp;that was posted on Instagram said. “For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”

Van Der Beek revealed in 2024 that he was being treated for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cancer-breast-colon-early-onset-obesity-b0cab8f95dea65f15fa099132f16f8d6">colorectal cancer.</a>

Van Der Beek made a surprise video appearance in September at a “Dawson's Creek” reunion charity event in New York City after previously dropping out due to illness.

He appeared projected onstage at the Richard Rodgers Theatre during a live reading of the show’s pilot episode to benefit F Cancer and Van Der Beek. Lin-Manuel Miranda subbed for him on stage. "Thank you to every single person here,” Van Der Beek said.

A one-time theater kid, Van Der Beek would star in the movie “Varsity Blues” and on TV in “CSI: Cyber” as FBI Special Agent Elijah Mundo, but was forever connected to “Dawson’s Creek,” which ran from 1998 to 2003 on The WB.

The series followed a high school group of friends as they learned about falling in love, creating real friendships and finding their footing in life. Van Der Beek, than 20, played 15-year-old Dawson Leery, who aspired to be a director of Steven Spielberg quality.

“Dawson’s Creek,” with the moody theme song Paula Cole’s “I Don’t Want To Wait,” helped define The WB as a haven for teens and young adults who related to its hyper-articulate dialogue and frank talk about sexuality. And it made household names of Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson, Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams.

The show caused a stir when one of the teens embarked on a racy affair with a teacher 20 years his senior and when Holmes' character climbs through Dawson's bedroom window and they curl up together. Racier shows like “Euphoria” and “Sex Education” owe a debt to “Dawson's Creek.”

Van Der Beek sometimes struggled to get out from under the shadow of the show but eventually leaned into lampooning himself, like on Funny Or Die videos and on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFWX0hWCbng">Kesha's “Blow” music video,</a>&nbsp;which included his laser gun battle with the pop star in a nightclub and dead unicorns.

“It’s tough to compete with something that was the cultural phenomenon that ‘Dawson’s Creek’ was,” he told Vulture in 2013. “It ran for so long. That’s a lot of hours playing one character in front of people. So it’s natural that they associate you with that.”

More than a decade after the show went off the air, a scene at the end of the show’s third season became a GIF. Dawson was watching as his soul mate embarks on a love affair with his best friend and burst into tears.

“It wasn’t scripted that I was supposed to cry; it was just one of those things where it’s a magical moment and it just happens in the scene,” he told Vanity Fair. He seemed exasperated when he told the Los Angeles Times: “All of a sudden, six years of work was boiled down to one seven-second clip on loop.” (Van Der Beek himself recreated the GIF in 2011 for Funny or Die and gave it a second life.)

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