After a five-year hiatus, Great Bend High School (GBHS) is proud to announce the return of its Community Service Day on Wednesday, April 22. The initiative, led by the National Honor Society (NHS), received official approval from the Board of Education on the evening of Feb. 9, clearing the way for over 900 students and staff members to step out of the classroom and into the streets to give back to the community.

Community Service Day is a full-day event dedicated to local improvement and gratitude. Students will spend the day engaged in various projects, including picking up trash, raking leaves, painting, and providing labor for local organizations and residents.

"This event allows us to say 'Thank You' for our community’s support and help meet genuine community needs," said Luke Maneth, National Honor Society Sponsor. "It is extremely important for our students to learn the importance of giving back to a community that has supported them through scholarships, internships, and school events."

How the Community Can Get Involved The NHS is currently seeking both project requests and local sponsorships to ensure the day is a success:

· Request a Service Project: Local businesses, non-profits, or individuals who have a project they need help with are encouraged to apply.

· Become a Sponsor: To provide supplies like rakes, paintbrushes, and gloves—as well as t-shirts for all 900+ participants—the NHS is seeking donations.

- Perk: Sponsors who contribute will have their logos featured on the back of the official event t-shirts for high visibility throughout the city.

· Donate Supplies: Physical donations of tools or services are also welcome.

Important Links &amp; Contact Information For project requests and detailed information, please visit the official event website: GBHS Community Service Day Website - https://gbhscommunityserviceday.my.canva.site/nhs/

Donations can be mailed to: Great Bend High School Attn: Luke Maneth 2027 Morton St, Great Bend, KS 67530 (Please make checks payable to Great Bend High School with "National Honor Society" in the memo.)

For more information, please contact Luke Maneth, National Honor Society Advisor and GBHS Science Teacher at 620-793-1521.

Great Bend High School announces return of Community Service Day in April

Today, millions of Americans serve as caregivers, supporting both young children and aging loved ones, often at the same time. Yet many lack critical lifesaving training, including how to respond in a cardiac arrest emergency.

Only about one-third of U.S. adults say they feel confident and ready to act if someone goes into cardiac arrest.

More than 300,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of hospitals each year in the United States. Infants, older adults and those with chronic health conditions are among the most vulnerable. For children of all ages, more than 80% of these emergencies happen at home, making the home the front line of response. CPR and AED training isn’t just a medical skill — it’s a caregiving essential.

“Having the ability to respond to a cardiac emergency makes you a better, more confident caregiver,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross Greater Kansas Chapter. “Learning first aid and CPR skills may make a lifesaving difference for your child, family member, or even a stranger.”

During National Heart Month, the American Red Cross is urging people to show your loved ones how much you care by taking a Red Cross First Aid, CPR and AED class and other lifesaving skills courses. Having the knowledge and confidence to act when seconds count can triple someone’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest. Here in Greater Kansas,&nbsp;over 13,000&nbsp;people were trained in lifesaving skills last year.

Be Ready for the Moments that Matter with Red Cross Lifesaving Training For more than 100 years, the American Red Cross has been a national leader in first aid education, training more than three million people per year in first aid, CPR and AED skills to help save lives in emergencies.

To ensure we are meeting the needs of today and evolving with the latest science, the Red Cross has recently enhanced its First Aid/CPR/AED training program to include updated infant CPR techniques and instruction on using epinephrine nasal spray, which is now an approved treatment for anaphylaxis. These updates ensure caregivers and bystanders are prepared to respond quickly and confidently in a range of life-threatening emergencies.

The training also equips participants with the knowledge and skills to better identify and respond to heart-related emergencies, including understanding the critical differences between cardiac arrest and heart attacks. It incorporates updated warning signs—highlighting how heart attacks can present differently in women—so symptoms are recognized earlier and lifesaving action can begin sooner. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwszsGKKyEQheGn0Z2NltrqwkU2eY1QltWJpJPcqzIN8_RDD7P9Dgf-mrVnhyQ5mxB0tNEmKx_Z4GpWxuABqi_OWUyeQopGa6xxc7LlNUWqaUXym4s3wxZJG_AuWCucHq3ys_1XL2w796F8pFJC9JXUe35HWs5B7vkx578h7EXAVcD1OI6lc6X-GWP59LuA68QnI-04hnxxbag674yDVav5F25_IOwF4AyWPd_Lm48hnGa879yxts_y5inH7Myv8wpoA5QUVdoIlEshKDTGqbLGRHozFDTLrww_AQAA__8UsVj8">redcross.org/takeaclass</a>&nbsp;to find a class near you.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8FuwyAMgOGngRsRMaaYA4de-hoVsZ0WLW03iBZpTz912vX79UvxUbGy1TKn5ClQyMHei18FKEPIlCSTF0Qfo3DEwJQxom3llIklnyrHFek6a6jsZ4iYQjDoRxP9aF_uUdumfbhIvCyJorB77j_E0zvYrdz3_dOEs4GLgctxHFNX4f4aY3r1m4GLfai06rpuWoe6JuUPrv9gwhkgRQDby2156jEMeq23TXuV9pqeutuxd9XHe4UaEiyZXF4ZHOaUXJ1ndMuJMvt15uTVfhf4DQAA__9su1P5">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0Fu6yAQgOHTwA4LBvDAgkU2uUY0HsYJ79lOi91ayumrVN1-v_5abJRArKU4RJt88tnrR7EjjFjROp-sn4AzzxKCxzjXGGnMupUxJ655JI5zSDcnntg6iAG9V8Hurcr_9mlWaov03cTE04QpVjbb8Uo8vINeyuM4PpS_KLgquJ7nOXD_evXnP6JVemPaaHj2u4KrXqU2Ml0WoV1Mq-UXbn-g_AUAI4Du5T5tcu4qWKH7Ip1qew6bHHo_usj6XoE8wpSTyTODCRnRkHPBTGPKbGfHaEV_F_gJAAD__yB3V_Q">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

Red Cross: Learn CPR as a caregiving skill during Heart Month

Barton County Youth Crew was recognized with the Youth Award at the recent 69th annual Hoisington Chamber of Commerce Banquet where Branson Holinde, Mya Brewer and Tyler Morton accepted the honor.

The Chamber selected Youth Crew for the award because the group:

· Serves as a safe place for young people to amplify their voices;

· Mobilizes local projects from the bottom-up rather than the top-down;

· Empowers their generation to take a seat at the decision-making table;

· Reflects their values through their work; and

· Ensures Barton County youth are not just spectators of community growth - they are the architects of it.

“Youth Crew is grateful to the Hoisington Chamber for their recognition of our community efforts,” said Tyler Morton, prevention advocate at Juvenile Services. “Hoisington has supplied some of our favorite moments over the years, such as cleaning up Bicentennial Park, appearing before the city council and hosting the first-ever state prevention conference for youth at the high school.

“We also appreciate the Hoisington Activity Center and Hoisington Library for providing space for our monthly meetings. Youth Crew members continue to show up for their peers and represent their community. We are so proud of all of them.”

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 receives Hoisington Chamber award

The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will provide live coverage of the 2026 Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships. The event is scheduled for&nbsp;Feb. 27 to Feb. 28, at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University in Hays.

Smoky Hills PBS will once again showcase both boys' and girls' competitions, continuing a long-standing commitment to local sports and its tradition of bringing LIVE coverage of high school sports to viewers across central and western Kansas.

"Our production crew and our many volunteers take great pride in delivering live, reliable coverage of this championship every year," said Les Kinderknecht, Senior Producer/Director at Smoky Hills PBS. "Covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships is about celebrating the athletes, the schools, and the communities that support them."

Action will begin&nbsp;at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, and continue&nbsp;at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28.&nbsp; A rebroadcast of the Championship Finals will air on&nbsp;Sunday, March 1 at noon.

For more information on broadcast times and additional coverage details, please visit our website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or download the free Smoky Hills PBS mobile app for Android and iPhone users.

Local sports coverage like this is made possible by VIEWERS LIKE YOU, and many local businesses who believe in the mission of Smoky Hills PBS.

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS is available over the air, on many cable systems, DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and Dish Network, HULU + LIVE TV, and YouTube TV.&nbsp; You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices and is also available to stream by clicking here:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream">video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream</a>.&nbsp; More information on Smoky Hills PBS and its programs and projects are available at SmokyHillsPBS.org or by calling 1-800-337-4788.

State wrestling broadcast returning to Smoky Hills PBS later this month

Booked in Lynch, Desmond S. Jr on Ellinwood Municipal Court case #26-14 for Failure to Stop at Stop Sign, Expired Tag, No Insurance. Bond set at $500.00 cash or surety, or 18 HR O.R.

Released Lynch, Desmond S. JR. on Ellinwood Municipal Court case #26-14 for Failure to Stop at Stop Sign, Expired Tag, No Insurance. By posting $500.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Hurd, Trey M. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2023CR0089 for Probation Violation; bond set at $263.00 CASH ONLY.

Released Hurd, Trey M. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2023CR0089 for Probation Violation after posting a $263.00 cash bond.

Booked in Carrasco, Horacio on Barton County District warrant #BT2022CR0240 and #BT2022CR0243 for Return For Court.

Booked Sherman, Augustus C. Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2024CR0237 for Failure to Appear; bond set at $100,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/11)

Thursday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 60. South southeast wind around 7 mph becoming east northeast in the afternoon. Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 32. North northeast wind 3 to 6 mph.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59. Light and variable wind becoming east southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Friday Night Showers likely, mainly after midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 43. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Saturday Showers likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 64.

Thursday's weather

Almost anyone, at any age, can engage in physical activity—even those living with chronic conditions. In fact, regular physical activity can provide significant health benefits for older adults managing ongoing health concerns. Most people can safely participate in moderate-intensity activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, weightlifting, or gardening, especially when they start slowly and build up over time. Always talk with a health care provider before beginning or changing an exercise routine to ensure it meets your individual needs.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Physical activity may help reduce the risk of conditions linked to cognitive decline and can improve mood, sleep, weight management, and daily routines for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Those with mild cognitive impairment may exercise independently, while individuals with dementia often benefit from caregiver support. Short, frequent activity sessions may be more effective than longer workouts.

Arthritis and Chronic Pain Regular physical activity can decrease pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life for people with arthritis or chronic pain. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, tai chi, and strength training are especially beneficial. Staying active typically does not worsen arthritis when done safely, and inactivity may actually increase pain and stiffness. Listening to your body and consulting a health care provider is essential.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) People with COPD can benefit from exercises that strengthen the arms, legs, and breathing muscles. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer guided exercise, education, and counseling to help individuals remain active and manage daily tasks more easily.

High Blood Pressure Physical activity helps manage blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. As little as 90 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk, with greater benefits gained from increased activity. Medication adjustments may be needed as activity levels increase.

Obesity If you are overweight or have obesity, physical activity is still highly beneficial. Any movement—even a few minutes at a time—is a positive start. Activities such as walking, water exercise, dancing, or strength training can be adapted to individual comfort and ability levels.

Osteoporosis Weight-bearing exercises like walking, stair climbing, and dancing help strengthen bones, while muscle-strengthening and balance exercises reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Always seek guidance on safe activity options.

Type 2 Diabetes Physical activity helps manage blood sugar levels, slows disease progression, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week plus muscle-strengthening exercises twice weekly. Monitoring blood glucose and protecting foot health are especially important.

Source: NIH, National Institute on Aging, January 2025

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Exercising with chronic conditions

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

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



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

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 

By TIM LEIGHTON AND JORDAN MOREY NFHS

During her final three years at Flambeau (Wisconsin) High School, Beth (Alberson) Schmidt was on top of the girls basketball world. She was an integral part of Flambeau’s run of three consecutive Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association Division 4 championships. She was coached by her Hall of Fame father and played in front of an adoring community that filled gymnasiums and arenas with unbridled enthusiasm and support.

“Girls basketball was so alive; it was overpowering,” Schmidt said in an interview last month with High School Today. “When I left the high school game, I firmly believed that it would always be that way.”

Schmidt now sees girls basketball through the lens of Flambeau’s head coach. It is a troubling, frustrating view that has seen participation in girls basketball dip dramatically – not only in her community but across the nation.

From 1979 to 2008, girls basketball was the top sport in participation for girls, according to NFHS Athletics Participation Survey data. In 2009, track and field took over the top spot.

In 2015, girls basketball slid to third behind track and field and volleyball, respectively, and, in 2022, soccer moved into the No. 3 spot and pushed basketball down one notch.

NFHS survey data show that from 2000 to 2025, girls basketball participation declined by at least 21 percent nationwide, falling from 451,600 student-athletes across 16,526 schools to 356,240 athletes across 18,208 schools. During its three-peat championship run from 2006 to 2008, Flambeau, with a current enrollment of 147 students, had more than 30 participants in the girls basketball program. Fast forward to now, and Schmidt has 10 participants, all on the varsity squad.

Facing a December 1 deadline to alert its conference for scheduling purposes, Schmidt was unsuccessful in her attempts to encourage other students to try basketball. Like many schools across the nation, the result was the cancellation of sub-varsity schedules.

“It is heartbreaking,” said Schmidt, a business education teacher. “I was not successful at encouraging others. I won’t give up, though. Maybe girls thought I was going to be too tough on them as a coach. I think students know the history of our program but don’t necessarily feel it. I plan to get back into the gym with the littles and show them the positive path of girls basketball.”

In her travels through the school and community, Schmidt, a mother of her own “starting five,” sees signs that have contributed to the decline in girls basketball participation.

As she did when she was young, Schmidt doesn’t see girls constantly cradling a basketball, playing in driveways or initiating pickup games. She sees students seemingly forced into decisions about sports specialization at a young age and a world filled with what she calls “distractions.”

In the post-pandemic era, Schmidt said many families are maxed out on debt, putting more pressure on students to have jobs. Cellphones, clothing and other essentials once supported by parents, according to Schmidt, have become the responsibility of students.

Schmidt understands those strains. She grew up on a dairy farm and was responsible for milking cows day and night. After school, practices and games, that responsibility was still waiting for her.

Despite the staggering decline, Schmidt is committed to restoring the program’s strength and vibrancy in the community. She said the focus is on youth, working on fundamentals and reminding them that basketball is fun, rewarding and a positive, education- based experience.

“Kids don’t need to make decisions in third grade about their playing future,” she said. “I think we are on the cliff; it is messy. But I also believe the pendulum will swing the other way. Our community is still here. We need to give them a reason to come back and rally around our efforts.”

Participation in girls athletics is up overall, according to historical NFHS survey data, revealing that students aren’t leaving sports — good news by most measures.

But where are they going? The meteoric rise in girls wrestling, flag football and volleyball – both in schools and clubs – are natural assumptions. So, too, is softball, which has become a year-round sport.

“The encouraging thing is that they’re not leaving sports, right?” said Monica Maxwell, an NFHS director of sports who oversees girls basketball. “We have more options, and we have more kids being active, doing something.”

Maxwell said it has been a struggle to revive girls basketball participation numbers in the post-pandemic era, and the issue has become a common discussion point at national conferences.

Time and money are increasingly being funneled into single- sport specialization, a trend that remains one of the key concerns surrounding girls basketball participation.

According to the 2024 National Youth Sports Parent Survey by the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, 48 percent of parents said they feel some or a lot of pressure to have their child specialize in one sport, with 53 percent justifying that pressure because their child wants to play high school sports. The survey also found that 21 percent of parents report their child plays their “primary” sport nine to 12 months annually.

Despite 58 percent of high school coaches encouraging their players to participate in multiple sports, many families are opting to focus their time and money on one, the survey found. The average U.S. sports family spent $1,016 on their child’s “primary” sport in 2024, which is a 46 percent increase compared to 2019.

One result of all the pressures to excel in one sport? Nearly 70 percent of kids quit organized sports by age 13, the American Academy of Pediatrics reported.

All of those factors have played into fewer girls playing basketball at the younger levels, and the topic of declining sub-varsity competition routinely comes up during national discussions.

“I think more of the concern is at the developmental stage where you have the girls that are going from middle school, and then, because there’s not a JV team, they have to go straight to varsity, and they might not have that ability to play varsity ball,” said Sarah Hayes, associate commissioner with the South Carolina High School League and a member of the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee. “I think there’s a larger concern for the small number of JV girls teams, because the schools that have JV teams are like, ‘Who do we play?’ Some teams were only playing maybe five or six games in a season because a lot of schools around them are not fielding JV teams.”

Hayes’ view echoes what’s happening across the country — girls are dropping basketball at younger ages and not picking it back up in high school, even at historically strong programs.

“We’ve been on this hill for a while now in Kansas,” said Jeremy Holaday, an assistant director with the Kansas State High School Activities Association. “We have perennial powerhouses that don’t even have enough participants for freshman teams and barely junior varsity.”

Focusing on the middle and elementary school levels might be the key. “I think the focus is how do we gain their interest at that middle level so that we can, at least, get them excited about potentially growing into something special with their friends,” said Missy Smith, an Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) assistant executive director. “Because at that age, when you’re 12- 13, you’re going to do what your friends do. I don’t think people are like, ‘Oh my gosh, we’re in a crisis,’ but the year-over-year declines are very concerning.”

To increase participation opportunities, the OSAA approved a rule last year for its smallest classification, permitting six quarters of combined play between junior varsity and varsity squads. The association’s other five classifications remain at five quarters.

“We had heard that a lot of schools were playing only half a game for their sub-varsity teams because they wanted to make sure they had enough kids for the varsity game,” Smith said. “That has alleviated some of that so they’re getting to play more.”

Smith also pointed to the pandemic-era growth of volleyball, both indoor and beach, at the club level. In the 2019-20 NFHS participation report, approximately 2,000 fewer students played girls basketball in Oregon.

The national surge in girls wrestling has also played a role, state association executives said. Girls wrestling topped 74,000 participants for the first time during the 2024-25 school year — a 15 percent increase from the previous year, and a record 40 sanctioned girls state wrestling championships were held nationwide.

“I also really think that wrestling has done a number, in a great way,” Smith said. “All of a sudden, the skill set is new to everyone. It’s exciting. It’s something different. I think it pulled kids in that direction.”

It appears the solution exists at the youth level. Minnesota- based Kevin Anderson, the longtime girls basketball historian for the Minnesota State High School League, has studied the rise in participation following the passage of Title IX and the recent decline.

Anderson cited drops in youth participation around sixth and seventh grades, with another decline around ninth grade. Those dips, he said, are a prelude to what is happening at the high school level.

“Across the nation, we need to encourage youth basketball to stay local at the younger grades,” he said. “There is no need to be in a traveling league in second or third grade. When players are told at that age that they won’t make the next level, that is disheartening. They take that message as basketball isn’t for you. That isn’t the messaging we want.”

Anderson encouraged youth basketball leaders to take a general approach to coaching, emphasizing fundamentals, skill development and fun. Playing too many games too early can derail confidence.

“At that age, you do not necessarily know who is going to grow,” Anderson said. “A successful coach, a successful organization, can be measured by how many players return the following year. This is fixable with the right approach at the targeted levels.”

Danielle LaRoche King, athletic director at The Brearley School in New York City and former athletic director and wellness director at Ithaca High School, said officials, parents and coaches need to dial down the intensity at lower levels and focus on what matters most.

“I think it’s really important for coaches to foster relationships with the players and foster relationships with each other for the team and have team building,” King said. “I think basketball may have gotten a little too intense for seventh- and eighth-graders, and the coaches are yelling and the parents are demanding. I think we should take it back a notch and make it a little bit more ‘come and let’s see your skill. Let’s have some fun.’

“... Especially at the fifth-, sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade levels, it’s not about scoring 30 points. It’s about learning the game, appreciating the game, and then once they’re hooked and you can really see the talent, that’s when they can accelerate and play club or play at a high level in high school. But for third through eighth grade, it should be an opportunity to build relationships with teammates and have fun. I would say the same thing about other sports. It’s not as fun because it has gotten so intense for students.”

The “Caitlin Clark Effect” is also viewed as a potential catalyst for renewed participation.

Just more than a year ago, the Cedar Rapids (Iowa)-based Gazette reported a 38 percent decline in Iowa girls basketball participation since the 2007-08 school year. Clark played high school basketball at Dowling Catholic in West Des Moines before a celebrated collegiate career at the University of Iowa and now with the Indiana Fever of the WNBA.

“It is going to come from the first-, second-, third-, fourth- and fifth-graders,” University of Iowa women’s basketball coach Jan Jensen told the Gazette. “It’s about the fundamentals . . . dribbling, pivoting, lowering the hoop so they can shoot the right way.”

Making connections with youth is also crucial.

“There has to be the beginning of a relationship between the head coach and the younger kids, and it can’t just be summer camps,” Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union assistant coach Gary Ross told the Gazette. “The coach and the high school kids have to be connected with the younger kids.”

Tim Leighton is communications coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League and a member of the High School Today Publications Committee. Jordan Morey is manager of communications and media relations at the NFHS.

Several Factors Affecting Decline in Girls Basketball Participation

- Nathan Broekelman, head coach of Barton CC Wrestling

- Kyle Kreigh, head coach of Great Bend Boys Basketball

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

Jayhawk Conference Men's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp;ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-7 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-8 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-10 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-9 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 16-8 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 16-8 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;16-9 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-9&nbsp; &nbsp; 16-9 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-11 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-11 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6-13&nbsp; &nbsp; 11-14 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-19 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-16&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6-18 Wednesday, February 11 Barton 78, Fort Hays Tech 76 Cowley 81, Pratt 61 Butler 93, Independence 88 Coffeyville 79, Cloud County 68 Hutchinson 67, Dodge City 61 Garden City 77, Seward County 76 Saturday, February 14 Barton @ Garden City Coffeyville @ Colby Pratt @ Dodge City Hutchinson @ Cloud County Seward County @ Butler Independence @ Neosho County Sunday, February 15 Cowley @ Fort Hays Tech&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday, February 18 Barton @ Butler Colby @ Hutchinson Garden City @ Cowley Cloud County @ Pratt Independence @ Seward County Dodge City @ Fort Hays Tech&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jayhawk Men's Standings, Scores, Schedule

Jayhawk Conference Women's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp; ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 17-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;23-1 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;20-3 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 20-5 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 19-6 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-8 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-8 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-11 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-14 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-13 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-12&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-13 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-16&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-22 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-17&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-18 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-17&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5-20 Wednesday, February 11 Barton 80, Fort Hays Tech 71 Cowley 61, Pratt 39 Butler 75, Independence 44 Coffeyville 76, Cloud County 56 Hutchinson 60, Dodge City 51 Seward County 81, Garden City 78 Saturday, February 14 Barton @ Garden City Coffeyville @ Colby Pratt @ Dodge City Hutchinson @ Cloud County Seward County @ Butler Sunday, February 15 Cowley @ Fort Hays Tech Wednesday, February 18 Barton @ Butler Colby @ Hutchinson Garden City @ Cowley Cloud County @ Pratt Independence @ Seward County Dodge City @ Fort Hays Tech &nbsp;

Jayhawk Women's Standings, Scores, Schedule

106:&nbsp;Zachary&nbsp;Siatka&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Charlie&nbsp;Foster&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:47) 113:&nbsp;Cooper&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Noel&nbsp;Gonzalez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:30) 120:&nbsp;Reese&nbsp;DeMoss&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 126:&nbsp;Tucker&nbsp;Verbeck&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;Turner&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:21) 132:&nbsp;Dalton&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Kawika&nbsp;Martinez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:56) 138:&nbsp;Vincent&nbsp;Rosas&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Cal&nbsp;Schartz&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:47) 144:&nbsp;Talon&nbsp;Verbeck&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Trevin&nbsp;Maciel&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Dec&nbsp;8-7) 150:&nbsp;Slade&nbsp;Patterson&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;Galindo&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:49) 157:&nbsp;Baron&nbsp;Rosas&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Triston&nbsp;Tomlinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Dec&nbsp;13-6) 165:&nbsp;Ayden&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.)175:&nbsp;Reid&nbsp;Joyce&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Cruz&nbsp;Folk-Robinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:28) 190:&nbsp;Everett&nbsp;Joyce&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brady&nbsp;Mendez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:57) 215:&nbsp;Trenton&nbsp;Kern&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Chauncy&nbsp;Kemp&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:11) 285:&nbsp;Josue&nbsp;Bustamante&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Atticus&nbsp;Marcenaro&nbsp;(MAHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:25)&nbsp;

Maize HS Wrestling 66, Great Bend 12

Barton Community College men's basketball team walked a tightrope Wednesday night at Fleske Fieldhouse, trading punches for 40 minutes before surviving a frantic final sequence to slip past Fort Hays Tech Northwest, 78–76.

Neither team found much separation all evening. Barton built an eight-point edge midway through the opening half behind physical possessions, second-chance opportunities, and steady interior scoring, only to see Northwest surge ahead by four late in the frame.&nbsp;Majok Chuol&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aris Rodriguez&nbsp;set the early tone with paint finishes and trips to the line,&nbsp;Jayden Ramirez&nbsp;provided a lift off the bench, and&nbsp;Sebastian Muchitsch's 10 first-half points, capped by an and-one before the buzzer, sent the Cougars into the locker room with a narrow 38–37 lead.

The second half followed the same script, featuring multiple lead changes and seven tied scores as both teams leaned heavily on the free throw line. Barton appeared to gain breathing room late when Rodriguez continued to attack the rim and Brian Sullivan Jr. threw down a momentum-swinging dunk off a steal with 1:15 remaining, pushing the Cougars in front 73–66. Northwest responded at the stripe, but Barton answered again, with Ramirez knocking down two free throws and Rodriguez adding two more with 23 seconds left to restore a seven-point cushion.

The final minute turned chaotic. Northwest drilled a three-pointer with 15 seconds left to trim the deficit to four, then after Barton split a pair at the line, the Tigers buried another triple with five seconds remaining to make it 78–76. On the ensuing inbounds, Barton was whistled for an offensive foul with four seconds left, giving Northwest one last opportunity. The Tigers launched a potential game-winner from deep at the horn, but&nbsp;Blake Rucker&nbsp;elevated to block the shot at the buzzer, sealing the victory and halting Barton's two-game skid in the season series.

The result lifts Barton into a tie for second place at 12–7 in Jayhawk Conference play and 17–8 overall, drawing votes in the latest national poll. Fort Hays Tech Northwest falls to 8–10 in league action and 13–11 on the season. The Cougars continue their stretch run Saturday with a 4:00 p.m. tip at Garden City Community College before heading to Butler Community College next Wednesday.

Barton went 27-of-67 (40.3%) from the floor and 3-of-15 (20.0%) from beyond the arc, but made its work count at the line, converting 21-of-27 (77.8%) free throws. Northwest shot 22-of-59 (37.3%) overall, hitting 10-of-32 from three-point range while going 22-of-27 (81.5%) at the stripe.

Despite being outrebounded by six, the Cougars controlled the interior, owning a plus-28 advantage in points in the paint along with a plus-7 edge in second-chance points and points off turnovers.

Rodriguez led Barton with 21 points on 8-of-14 shooting. Ramirez added 14 points in 16 minutes, going 4-of-7 from the floor and 5-of-6 at the line. Muchitsch finished with 12 points and eight rebounds, Chuol chipped in eight points, and&nbsp;Jon Byrd&nbsp;contributed five points, seven rebounds, and four assists.&nbsp;Noah Williams&nbsp;added 10 points, four rebounds, and four steals.

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