The winners keep coming in Eagle Media's Make a Difference Contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing. Bentley Young, a second grader in Meredith Ramsey's class at Lincoln Elementary School in Great Bend, was recently named the first weekly winner of March. 

"I can make a difference by helping my parents around the house with my sister and chores," Bentley said.

As a weekly winner, Bentley was handed a giant $100 check from OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing. He and his teacher will also be entered into the monthly drawing. That student receives an additional $100, plus a backpack filled with swag from other contest sponsors. The monthly winner's teacher also receives $100.

The February monthly winner was also announced last week. Amayah Gilliam, a kindergartner at Riley Elementary, is the lucky winner of the additional $100 and backpack fill with swag. Her teacher, Miss Ochs, also wins $100.

The Make a Difference contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing, is sponsored in part by Big Ben Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medical Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrantz Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response, &amp; Scooter's Coffee.

Lincoln Elementary's Bentley Young wins $100 in Make a Difference Contest

The Ellinwood Lady Eagles are headed to the state tournament after a thrilling 46-44 victory over TMP Marian in the Smith Center Sub-State championship Friday Night.

The win sends Ellinwood to the Kansas Class 2A State Basketball Tournament for just the second time in school history. The Lady Eagles enter state play with an impressive 25-1 record.

Ellinwood will face No. 8 seed Rossville Tuesday in the opening round of the state tournament at Tony’s Pizza Event Center in Salina. The semifinals and championship games will be played Thursday and Saturday at White Auditorium in Emporia.

Eagle Media will provide live play-by-play coverage of the Lady Eagles’ state tournament run on 100.7 Eagle Country. Plus, worldwide streaming coverage available at GreatBendPost.com.

Coverage of Ellinwood’s opening-round game will begin Tuesday, March 10, with the pregame show at 1:45 p.m. and tipoff scheduled for 2 p.m. Cayden Sanders will have the play-by-play call.

Eagle Media is also seeking sponsors to support the Ellinwood state tournament broadcasts. Businesses, organizations or individuals interested in sponsoring coverage can call the Eagle Media Center at 620-792-3647, contact their Eagle Media sales representative, or email <a>gbsales@eaglemedia.com</a> for more information. Deadline to Sponsor is 5PM on Monday, March 9.

STATE BOUND: Ellinwood Lady Eagles Win Sub-State Thriller, Eagle Media to Broadcast State Tournament Run

The
drought monitor, as of Tuesday, March 3rd, indicates that much of
the southern third of the state, as far as Stafford and Reno Counties here with
it creeping into Barton Counties, is in moderate drought or abnormally
dry.&nbsp; Extreme Southeast Kansas is in
severe drought.&nbsp; We have gone from 64%
totally out of dry conditions to 54%.&nbsp; &nbsp;Our area is in good shape.&nbsp; The six to ten day forecast (March 10 to 14)
indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal for temperatures and a 33
to 40% of leaning above normal for precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day forecast indicates
(March 12 to 18) indicates a 33 to 50% chance of leaning above normal for temperatures
and a 33 to 40% chance of leaning below normal for precipitation.

Today’s
topic deals with the possible effects of international conflicts on our agricultural
industry.&nbsp; This doesn’t have to involve
military actions as conflict between countries comes in many forms.&nbsp; In general terms, what are the possible
effects, both good and bad, on producers when nations come into conflict?

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During
World War I, American agriculture saw a boom as the war in Europe opened
markets for our agricultural products overseas.&nbsp;
The downside was that after the end of the war, there was a major
collapse in demand overseas and American agriculture was in a “depression” long
before 1929.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Union
farmers did quite well during the Civil War with the major challenge being able
to obtain enough help.&nbsp; Many ag companies
made fortunes selling provisions to the government for troops.&nbsp; Ferdinand Schumacher and Robert Stuart took
founded their fledgling company in the 1850s and later split.&nbsp; Schumacher’s company moved to Akron Ohio and
made a fortune during the war.&nbsp; You know
his company today as Quaker Oats.&nbsp; 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; World
War II also saw a boom for agricultural commodities.&nbsp; Food production was deemed so essential that
draft exemptions were available for farmers.&nbsp;
Again, the major challenge was enough labor.&nbsp; Many of you may be familiar with the German
POW camps in Kansas and in many cases, this helped provide labor.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Food
programs such as USAID and others were used during the conflict of the Cold War
as a way to help nations in need and to stave off communism.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During
the Carter administration, after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, sales were
halted to the Soviet Bloc and significantly hurt commodity prices.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The
“Tariff Wars” caused a spike in all aspects of input and machinery costs and
negatively effect commodity prices due to export disruptions.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; More
recently starting with Desert Storm and up through the current conflict with
Iran, and you can through the Ukraine War in there, these conflicts have caused
spikes in oil prices and that has increased fuel prices for ag as well as the
costs for nitrogen and other fertilizers.&nbsp;
Exports of commodities such as wheat are being disrupted with all that’s
going on in the Middle East.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - International Conflict and Agriculture

By DALE HOGG Hogg Strategies &amp; Stories

From a tiny garage-sized location with three employees to a regional home-service industry leader, Stueder Contractors Inc. has defined the "American Dream" in Great Bend for four decades. In recognition of that journey, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce named the company its 2025 Business of the Year.

The business joined Citizen of the Year Nancy Sundahl, Legacy Award recipient Mark Calcara and NextGen Leader of the Year Cody Harris as honorees during the chamber’s 104th annual awards banquet Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Great Bend Events Center.

“It’s very humbling,” Terry Stueder said of the honor, looking at a display of photographs tracing the company’s 42-year history. Looking at the list of past recipients, he said it is hard to imagine they belong in such rarified company.

The Business of the Year Award recognizes local companies that demonstrate excellence and leadership in the marketplace. The award is open to chamber members who excel in five key areas: customer service, business growth, resilience, community engagement and innovation. According to the chamber, the honor highlights businesses that lead with integrity and serve as an inspiration to the community.

To qualify, businesses must show measurable growth and a commitment to improving products or services while contributing to the betterment of Great Bend through local initiatives. Stueder Contractors has shown particular resilience, expanding its footprint multiple times—including a major renovation of its 10th Street storefront five years ago - to meet community needs.

Founded in August 1984 by rural Claflin native Terry Stueder, who was 22 at the time, and his wife Great Bend native MelEesa Stueder, then a senior at Kansas State University, the company began with Terry, one technician and a part-time secretary. He took over an Ellinwood business whose owner was nearing retirement, opened in Great Bend and grew it from there.

Today, the business has 22 employees and a fleet of 15 service trucks, providing a full suite of services including heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical and water treatment.

The business began in a space barely larger than a garage with a small attached office. Roughly five years later, the Stueders outgrew the rental property and purchased the building adjacent to their current site. While they expected the new location to last a lifetime because it tripled their square footage, they outgrew the space in two years and purchased their current facility, which they have also expanded and remodeled.

The chamber played a pivotal role in the company's early success, dating back to when Irv Gotsche first invited Terry to join the organization while the business was just starting.

“That was one of the best decisions I've ever made,” Terry said. Because the business lacked an advertising budget, the networking opportunities the chamber offered helped propel the fledgling operation to what it is today.

The Stueder family’s connection to the chamber runs deep; Terry served as an ambassador and as board chair in 1999.

Beyond the chamber, MelEesa said the community has been supportive. “They’ve been very good to us. We just want to give back where we can. We’ve been blessed.” The company contributes to many organizations and fundraising efforts.

Additionally, Terry said they saw a need for a home and garden show and sponsored the Spring Expo for more than 20 years. Even though they do not golf, they are contributing to the Great Bend Recreation Commission’s effort to revamp the former Club at StoneRidge golf course because they see the need for such a facility.

“It hasn’t always been like this,” MelEesa said, adding that many see their 10th Street storefront and fleet of trucks and assume it has always been successful. “We started from nothing.”

When they were first married, MelEesa had a job with the Pizza Hut corporate office in Wichita to support the business. She commuted, or the couple would meet in Hutchinson just to see one another.

Now, Terry is still involved every day, just in a less hands-on capacity. While he used to run service calls and handle all the estimating, their current crew has allowed him to take a break from those specific tasks. “They are what make us tick,” he said.

Several of their staff members have worked for the company for over 25 years. They include Steve Wondra, water treatment sales; Alan Crowther, plumbing manager; Gary Wondra, HVAC sales; and Marla Poppelreiter, office manager.

“We hope to continue this into a second generation,” MelEesa said. Their daughter, Tarynn Kirmer (who lives with her husband Benn in Claflin) and their son-in-law, Rusty Newton (husband of daughter Evann), work for the family business.

Their other daughter, Brenna Marshall and husband Logan, live in Great Bend, and their son, Trent lives in Emporia.

· 2018 Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance Agency

· 2016 Countryside Veterinary Associates

· 2004 Adams Brown, Beran &amp; Ball Chtd.

· 2002 CPI Qualified Plan Consultants Inc.

From garage to regional leader: Stueder Contractors named Business of the Year

By ELLE HUTCHINSON Barton County Media Consultant

Members of the Barton County Commission recently traveled to Topeka to participate in County Day at the Capitol, an annual event that brings together county officials from across Kansas to engage with state legislators and represent their local communities.

The event provided an opportunity for county leaders to connect with officials from other counties, share ideas, and represent the interests of their residents while visiting with legislators and others at the Capitol. County Day serves as an important forum for local officials to maintain a strong presence in the legislative process and ensure the perspective of Kansas counties is heard.

An important moment for Barton County during the visit came when Commissioner Barb Esfeld testified before lawmakers regarding House Bill 2745, proposed legislation affecting counties across the state. Drawing on her extensive background and knowledge in property appraisal, Commissioner Esfeld represented Barton County during the hearing, with the full support of the Commission in attendance.

Her testimony provided lawmakers with insight from the local government level and highlighted the importance of thoughtful policy decisions that consider how statewide actions affect counties and the communities they serve.

Barton County’s participation in County Day reflects the Commission’s continued commitment to staying engaged with state leaders and ensuring the voices of Barton County residents are represented at the Capitol.

Barton County represented at County Day at the state capitol

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks with Ted Bush, president of the Wichita Firefighters Union, on the recent southwest Kansas fires.

🎥 Forward Ever: Firefighters union president on southwest Kansas fires

Every student counts. Special education teachers know that
better than anyone else. For her efforts as a special education teacher at
Little Panther Preschool in Great Bend, Hilary Emerson was recently named the
February winner in Eagle Media’s School Hero Contest, presented by OPI &amp;
Golden Belt Printing. Emerson was presented a giant $500 check for her efforts.

&nbsp;Emerson’s nominator
said, “Hilary is an amazing teacher to my autistic daughter. She has always
treated her the same as the other children, and has helped her progress so
much.”

The School Hero Contest is for any school employee who goes
above and beyond in his or her job. Administrators, teachers, paras, coaches,
maintenance staff, cafeteria workers, and more are all eligible. A new School
Hero will be selected on the fourth Tuesday of each month, and that hero will
be recognized with $500 in prize money.

The Nominate a School Hero contest is presented by OPI and
Golden Belt Printing. Want to recognize someone at your school? Head to the
contest page at GreatBendPost.com. and help 100.7 Eagle Country celebrate our
School Heroes.

Little Panther Preschool's Emerson wins $500 in Eagle Media's School Hero Contest

Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8 and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they&nbsp;turn their clocks forward to make sure the devices are working.

“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Shannon Wedge, executive director of the South Central and Southeast Kansas chapter. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”

Local Red Cross volunteers often respond to help Kansans affected by home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country. These volunteers are on the scene with emergency managers and first responders to aid their neighbors after a tragedy.

SMOKE ALARMS&nbsp; When turning your clocks forward this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwsy0FuwyAQQNHTwA6LgYGBBYtsco0Iw5CgOokLVn39KlW37-vXZEJB7SUnIDLkgFyUjxRdrMGjrd6wA6-hrDpDIciteReD7MnHnPUaNLEL_gZQWg1gdcgoUM9e-at_q2fuG4-pCNcY0Ve3qj2M_Vw-QW7pcRy7sBdhrsJcz_NcBtcy3nMu73EX5tr6YPnk2rMavHGerHpNf3D7B2EvBjV6K0e6ry8-p0DN-b7xyLW_lxcfch6D-flZo2ueiKwipKAweFABAZRr1LAUbBqi_EnmNwAA__9wnVSR">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family,&nbsp;or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.

IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp; If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwsy01uwyAQQOHTwA6LnzEDCxbZ5BoRhiFGxbELbq3evkrV7ff0ctAugbScgkLUOCucPV-Dty6ZElXx2iXjwWeTpTe5GCoaNfEarI9RLk4izc4-lEolO2Wki8BAjprpo36KLdZGfQiExXuweV7E4fpxTe_AW1jP8xjM3Ji-M32_rmvqlFPfx5j2_mT6Xuori5_9q4u2p9hEWuNxUp_Wc2t8o1yj6NQoDhI1hz94_AMzNw0SrOE9PJcXXYOBpPhs1GOu-_Sik4-zE23v1c_FIqIRCOgEOKuEA6XEXLBASlCk8vw76N8AAAD__3_7Xpo">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES&nbsp; Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least&nbsp;2,552&nbsp;[DM1]&nbsp;lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwsy72O6yAQQOGnMR0WgwcGCoo01n2LiJ8hQdeOs2CtX3-V1bbf0SlBu4zKCg5ApMkAGS-eIVso2Uf2i4PIVZlqk8mUsLJJEEG0YH2MKjlFbJy9A-RaHCzKRZxQjVb4f_uSe2wb9yEJk_doi0ny7fr7mj9BbOF5nu9puU16nfR6XdfcueR-jDEf_THp9d-x89o6D7FzaVF23jgOlq2EX7j_wbTcNCq0i-jhkV58jQkVx8fGPZZ2zC8-xTg78_5ZvamWiBZJSE6isyAdAkhTqWLOWBV48R30TwAAAP__T0VXgg">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;

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://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwsy01uwyAQQOHTmB0WAwMDCxbZ5BoRP0OC6iQuWPX1q1Tdfk-vRu0LKic4ApEmC2SDeERtrUdIUMFY3VQJWVvP2QG6apQ2okcXUlLZK2Lr3Q2gtOrBKJ9wQTV75a_-LZ-pbzymJMwhoKs2y92P_Vw_QWzxcRz7Yi6Lvi76ep7nOriW8Z5zfY-7eHLtSQ7eOE2WvcY_uP3DYi4aFTojRrznF59zQcXpvvFItb_XFx9iHoP5-VmDbY6IjCQkL9E7kB4BpG3UsBRsCoL4ifo3AAD__7MYUdY">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwsy0tu6yAUgOHVwAyLx4EDAwaZZBsRj0PCvU7sgltLXX2VqtPv11-j9gWk4xQVokar0Ab-iLnISlApEGWTtSngHWoHNpCkRo336EJKMnuJZL27KVVa9cpIn4CBnL3S__4hnqmvNKZAyCGAqzaL3Y_9XN6Br_FxHDszF6avTF_P81wG1TK2OZdt3Jm-lvH5Lcb2L_En1Z7EoJXSJNFr_IXbHzBz0SDBGT7iPb_onAwkpftKI9W-LS86-DwG0fO9BtscIhqBgF6Ad0p4UErYhg1KgSZV4F9R_wQAAP__bLNXqg">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

American Red Cross: Check smoke detectors when changing clocks this weekend

Cheyenne Bottoms, located on the Central Flyway, a bird migration route that connects Canada to South America, is an ideal place to witness the spring migration of many bird species. Seventy percent of all the different shorebird species in North America have been recorded at Cheyenne Bottoms, and late March through early May is prime time to view the birds using the local wetlands for rest and fuel.

This spring, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering 2-hour Birdwatching van tours through the Cheyenne Bottoms wetlands.&nbsp;Bird communities can change quickly from day to day during the spring, but the migration usually peaks around the last two weeks of April through the first two weeks of May.&nbsp;Birdwatchers will get the chance to see a variety of wetland birds during the tours, including ducks, such as Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, and Gadwall; shorebirds, such as Long-billed dowitchers, Least sandpipers, Willets, Black-necked stilts, and American avocets; wading birds, such as Great blue herons, Black-crowned night herons, and Snowy Egrets; and other wetland specialist birds, such as American white pelicans, Double-crested cormorants, and Pied-billed grebes.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Saturday, March 21

Time:&nbsp;9–11 a.m. Cost:&nbsp;$5 per person Ages:&nbsp;12 and older Registration:&nbsp;Pre-registration required Capacity:&nbsp;Limited to 11 participants Pre-register for the tours by calling KWEC at 877-243-9268.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. More information can be found at <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqiohrCVEzT-2Bu22yVklcaqOvmZGt05-2BeOL3r-2Flc3NH2OViJbW_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpcPvgqL1YSGxLdnzWi-2FgE03iXW1sCNa2SzmMys1WQa7mLdhKFWOe4217jnJBR9Jv2ACfwJBBOFHeBQ-2BUEc4-2BnitKbYa67YqbOsS9UeCzrh4SQ-2B254sqIz-2Fu65I1tduTIsMzmfYhacme1DHT6U8QJ20jKugz4k-2FrFaWbm9wsF6PasKpeBqwXp8Sh6XnpfWCErOiANyOaLrQFIwAkvKuZBHKwoaF24ixW-2FUP-2F-2FhOzS7Q7oodmPe1HPeh9-2FAQwRlgVjv7bDZNak23ne-2BeZYi5lmJ3TCftaQ-2BNctRaBLjtHvfxstRrPgpmXYmO8BJU8Xc7l4ybcQKpZ-2F759vsf-2BPKyMkUEt">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center to host spring Bird Migration Tours

The next generation of entrepreneurs took center stage on March 4 at the Youth Entrepreneur Challenge (YEC) held at the Great Bend Event Center, where five student-run businesses presented their ideas to a panel of judges and members of the community.

The Youth Entrepreneur Challenge is a statewide competition that encourages high school students to develop real-world business concepts, build business plans, and pitch their ideas to industry professionals. Participants gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship, communication, and problem-solving while competing for the opportunity to advance to the state competition.

This year’s local competition featured five impressive student ventures, each demonstrating creativity, ambition, and strong business potential.

Taking home First Place and the Grand Prize was Zoey Bogner with her business Talk that Talk. Zoey’s venture offers professional voice-over services for a variety of media, including radio and television commercials, audiobooks, video games, and other audio productions. With a clear niche and growing demand for voice talent across multiple industries, her business stood out to judges for its creativity and scalability. Zoey will now advance to represent the community at the state Youth Entrepreneur Challenge competition.

Second Place was awarded to Bennett Jacobs and Callie Umphres for their business Ice on Wheels, a mobile snow cone stand designed to serve customers at events, sporting tournaments, and community gatherings. Their business plan also includes a seasonal expansion that would offer hot chocolate and apple cider during colder months. In addition to placing second, Ice on Wheels also earned the People’s Choice Award, voted on by event attendees.

Third Place went to Amelia’s Custom Art Keychains, a business that turns her artistic talent into personalized keepsakes. Amelia hand-draws custom artwork that is turned into unique keychains, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail.

· K&amp;K Creations, offering custom shirts, stickers, and personalized merchandise.

· PK Podcast, a podcast created for preacher’s kids that shares stories and provides insight into the unique experiences of growing up in traveling ministry families.

“I have done the youth entrepreneurship challenge for three years,” Zoey Bogner said. “Competing in YEC has given me so much confidence. I now feel confident going up and talking to people at events and in the community. I have so much passion, and I love what I do. I hope more youth get involved in (YEC) and it continues to grow and shape Barton County.”

The event highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of local youth and the importance of supporting the next generation of business leaders.

Zoey Bogner will go on to represent the community at the Kansas State Youth Entrepreneur Challenge, where she will compete against top student entrepreneurs from across the state.

Local students showcase innovation at Youth Entrepreneur Challenge

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s time
to get outside and get some of those home improvement projects underway. Eagle
Media is ready to help. The Eagle Media Home &amp; Garden Show, presented by
Kelly’s Garden Sense, is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 at the Great Bend Events
Center.

"It’s all indoors, and it’s completely free to attend,” said
Eagle Media Digital and Marketing Consultant Shannon Towns. “You can come check
out local contractors, landscapers, home improvement pros, and a lot more. We’ll
also have the Golden Belt Humane Society Adopt A Pet. They’ll be serving
walking tacos with a cookie and bottle of water for a $10 donation.”

Avast Ye Java and Freaking Delicious Cheesecake Company will
be selling drinks and snacks outside the Events Center for the all-day event.

“It’s a great time to come out and get inspired from local
businesses when you’re thinking about doing a remodel project, maybe some
landscaping, or any spring projects coming up,” Towns said. “Come check it out.
We invite everyone to come out and attend.”

Nearly three dozen vendors have already signed up to attend
this year’s Home and Garden Show.

<a href="https://www.rebornrenovationsks.com/">REBORN RENOVATIONS</a>

<a href="https://www.rebornrenovationsks.com/"></a><a href="https://www.sunflowerdiv.com/">SUNFLOWER DIVERSIFIED SERVICES</a>

<a href="https://www.nex-tech.com/fiber/great-bend/"></a><a href="https://www.magnadrygb.com/">MAGNA DRY CLEANING SERVICES</a>

<a href="https://www.magnadrygb.com/"></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Big-Bend-Custom-Engraving/61568506050357/">BIG BEND CUSTOM ENGRAVING</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Big-Bend-Custom-Engraving/61568506050357/"></a><a href="https://www.amfam.com/agents/kansas/great-bend/kimberley-nollette">AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE - KIM NOLLETTE</a>

<a href="https://www.amfam.com/agents/kansas/great-bend/kimberley-nollette"></a><a href="https://www.kellysgardensense.com/">KELLY'S GARDEN SENSE</a>

<a href="https://www.kellysgardensense.com/"></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/grandpascandycorner/">GRANDPA'S CANDY CORNER</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/grandpascandycorner/"></a><a href="https://www.daytonsecurityinc.com/">DAYTON SECURITY</a>

<a href="https://www.daytonsecurityinc.com/"></a><a href="https://www.shelterinsurance.com/CA/agent/CHRISRAMSEY">SHELTER INSURANCE - CHRIS RAMSEY</a>

<a href="https://www.shelterinsurance.com/CA/agent/CHRISRAMSEY"></a>CONTEMPORARY HOME IMPROVEMENT &amp; ROOFING

<a href="https://www.straubspowersports.com/">STRAUB'S POWERSPORTS</a>

<a href="https://www.straubspowersports.com/"></a><a href="https://www.niksoptiks.com/">NIK'S OPTIKS</a>

<a href="https://www.niksoptiks.com/"></a><a href="https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/locations/western-ks/great-bend?msockid=16b475cdcf556ee91d8a6637cead6f3e">RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN</a>

<a href="https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/locations/western-ks/great-bend?msockid=16b475cdcf556ee91d8a6637cead6f3e"></a><a href="https://www.tailoredremodeling.com/">TAILORED ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS BATH</a>

<a href="https://www.tailoredremodeling.com/"></a><a href="https://cvkdpros.com/">C&amp;V&nbsp;</a><a href="https://cvkdpros.com/">KANSAS DOORS</a>

<a href="https://cvkdpros.com/"></a><a href="https://www.eldridgefencing.com/grilling-lines">ELDRIDGE FENCING</a>

<a href="https://www.eldridgefencing.com/grilling-lines"></a><a href="https://hammekesecurity.com/">HAMMEKE SECURITY</a>

<a href="https://hammekesecurity.com/"></a><a href="https://www.sunflowerpoly.com/">SUNFLOWER POLY</a>

<a href="https://www.sunflowerpoly.com/"></a><a href="https://www.stueders.com/">STUEDER CONTRACTORS</a>

<a href="https://www.stueders.com/"></a><a href="https://sutherlands.com/s/great-bend-ks/3702/ads?srsltid=AfmBOooIvVAh--HjcMnhKfZneiAr_C-KE5zjwyazBL9qa6inIFD1Fd62">SUTHERLANDS</a>

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Eagle Media’s Home & Garden Show returns to Great Bend on March 14

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 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Darryn Peterson tried to steal the show from Tre White and Melvin Council Jr. on Senior Day at Kansas.

Turned out they all shared in the spotlight.

Peterson, the freshman sensation and potential No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, poured in 27 points while going 10 of 15 from the field and hitting Flory Bidunga for a series of ally-oop dunks. White contributed 23 points and 11 rebounds in his final game at Allen Fieldhouse, while Council merely had 17 points, eight rebounds and 10 assists in his last game at the Phog.

It added up to a 104-85 rout of Kansas State on Saturday that underscored the vast potential No. 14 Kansas carries into the postseason.

"I think that was the point: We saw the ball go in the hole," Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. “Everybody got a chance to play, all of that stuff. We still didn't guard; we have to be better at that. But we needed to have a win. It was a good afternoon for us.”

The Jayhawks shot 59% from the field against the Wildcats. They had a 45-28 rebounding advantage and dished out 23 assists.

Those kinds of numbers can mask a lot of ills.

“I don't know that you always have to have all five playing well, but you have to have all five playing together,” Self said. “The last two games we've played, even though there weren't as many open looks, we shot the ball miserably. So it was good to see it go in.”

Indeed, there are few teams more boom-or-bust than the Jayhawks have been this season.

At their best, they're the team that beat Tennessee on a neutral floor, sent Iowa State and Arizona to their first losses of the season, beat BYU and Texas Tech in a three-day span, and dealt Houston a humbling 69-56 defeat a couple of weeks ago.

At their worst, the Jayhawks have looked like a discombobulated mess, losing to UCF, Cincinnati and Arizona State during an up-and-down Big 12 slate, dropping the rematch at Arizona by more than 20, and losing four of their last six heading into Saturday.

Perhaps some of that inconsistency came from Peterson's inconsistent availability. One of the school's most heralded recruits missed time throughout the season with cramping issues and other injuries, and even missed a game while battling the flu.

Yet the 6-foot-6 guard seems to be hitting his stride at just the right time.

“I'm feeling good,” Peterson said. "Perfect timing as we go into the Big 12 Tournament and the NCAA. I'm feeling the best I've felt.”

It seems so are the rest of the Jayhawks.

White, the transfer from Illinois, showed against Kansas State the kind of inside-outside versatility that has made him so invaluable this season. He was 5 of 9 from beyond the arc against the Wildcats, yet White also had a game-high in rebounds.

“We're not trying to be too high or too low,” he said. “We handle our principles we should be handling our business.”

Council, who arrived from St. Bonaventure, came up two rebounds shy of a triple-double on Saturday. He has proven to be a scorer (36 points in a win over NC State), distributor (12 assists against Kansas State in January) and the heart and soul of the operation.

One season at Kansas left such an impression on Council that he kissed the big Jayhawk logo at center court on Saturday.

Throw in Bidunga, one of the premier interior defenders in college hoops, and the Jayhawks have a quartet that is every bit as good as anybody else in the country, and one that has the potential — operative word — to carry them deep into the NCAA Tournament.

A 104-point outburst at Allen Fieldhouse puts Kansas’ boom-or-bust season in focus

The adage “records are made to be broken” has been a part of our nation’s sports history for decades.&nbsp;

Many remember Hank Aaron’s 715th&nbsp;home run in 1974 that finally topped Babe Ruth’s career mark, followed in 1995 when Cal Ripken broke Lou Gehrig’s record of 2,130 consecutive games played.

At the high school level, the NFHS has been tracking records since 1979 when the first edition of the National High School Sports Record Book was published. With millions of students involved in high school sports every year, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of records broken every year.

One of the longest-standing records in high school football was the career rushing yards marks set by Ken Hall at Sugar Land (Texas) High School from 1950 to 1953. Hall, who was inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame in 1983, rushed for 11,232 yards during his four years. The record stood for 59 years until Derrick Henry, now one of the NFL’s all-time top running backs, rushed for 12,144 yards during his career at Yulee (Florida) High School that ended in 2012.

In girls basketball, one of the most amazing records is the blocked shots mark set by Brittney Griner of Houston (Texas) Nimitz High School in 2008. Griner blocked 25 shots in a game against Houston (Texas) Alief Hastings High School.

Now an online publication, the Record Book has provided a means of recognizing individual athletes and teams who have accomplished amazing feats. However, when it comes to high school records, the popular adage should have another line: “Records are made to be broken –&nbsp;if they are accomplished in the true spirit of athletic competition.”

The natural progression is that records are set as a result of accomplishments during a game, season or career – as opposed to the pursuit of records during a game, season or career. There is a significant difference in these approaches, and it mirrors the movement from a “formative” to “performative” approach threatening high school sports today.

Recently, there have been public announcements of intent to set a record in advance of a game. When this happens, the game becomes secondary to the pursuit of a record, consideration for competing with good sporting behavior is eliminated, and the score of the game becomes totally one-sided and embarrassing.

In fact, recent boys basketball scores from around the country have included a 95-3 regular-season game, a 119-18 playoff game and a 120-25 contest that involved only three-point attempts by the winning team.

One aspect that must separate high school sports from every other level is sportsmanship. While all participants and teams should strive for outstanding performances and winning seasons, those accomplishments must occur within the philosophy of education-based high school sports.

In order to ensure that records were established in this manner, the NFHS long ago developed a Sportsmanship Statement for inclusion in the National High School Sports Record Book. Perhaps it is time for a reminder about the importance of doing things the right and ethical way. Following is that statement:

“The National High School Records Committee is pleased to recognize outstanding achievements by teams and individuals. Although it is impossible to determine intent when marks are established, the committee encourages recognition of performances in the true spirit of interscholastic competition. Running up scores and embarrassing an opponent for the primary purpose of inclusion in the Record Book is not consistent with the ideals of good sportsmanship.”

High school sports is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to participate with their peers and learn valuable lessons that will help shape their lives. Let’s make sure the correct lessons are being demonstrated within the true spirit of interscholastic competition.&nbsp;

Records Should be Set in True Spirit of Athletic Competition

The Barton Community College women's basketball team got off to a hot start Saturday evening and never looked back, closing out Fleske Fieldhouse for the 2025-26 season by cruising to an 88-64 victory over Cloud County Community College.

Barton improves to 15-16 overall, advancing to its ninth straight Region 6/Plains District Quarterfinal as the Cougars travel Tuesday to face second-seeded and No. 9-ranked Dodge City Community College in a 5:30 p.m. tip. Cloud County completes its season at 14-16.

Barton seized control early and never let go, turning a brief 5-4 deficit into a runaway victory behind a blistering first-quarter surge, scoring on nine of its final 10 possessions of the period. The Cougars connected on four three-pointers in the opening quarter and used back-to-back runs of 7-0 and 11-0 to flip the momentum and build a commanding 29-11 lead after the opening ten minutes.

The advantage only grew from there as Barton's efficiency and rebounding dictated the pace. The Cougars pushed the margin to 48-28 at halftime and stretched the lead to as many as 31 points in the fourth quarter while shooting 56.3 percent from the field and dominating the glass 41-24. Barton also turned those extra opportunities into 15 second-chance points and 36 points in the paint while dishing out 17 assists on 36 made baskets.

Individually,&nbsp;Regina Donanu&nbsp;powered the offense with a game-high 32 points on 13-of-22 shooting, adding five assists and three steals.&nbsp;Christal Long&nbsp;provided a strong all-around effort with a career-high 20 points and 12 rebounds for her third double-double of the season, while&nbsp;Mary Akindecontrolled the interior with her 14th double-double, pouring in 15 points and 14 rebounds to go with five blocked shots.&nbsp;Mersadie Spray&nbsp;added 17 points, four assists, and four steals, while&nbsp;Alaina Eck&nbsp;chipped in four points and two assists as Barton's starting five accounted for all 88 points.

Camiah Muldrow led three Cloud County players in double figures with 21 points, Sofija Todorovic adding 14 points off the bench and Amanda Makela contributing 10 points.

Hot start sends Barton women past Cloud County in Region 6 opener

Behind a powerful offensive performance, the Barton Community College softball team piled up 32 runs on 26 hits Saturday afternoon at Pratt Community College, sweeping the Beavers with five-inning run-rule victories of 18-2 and 14-0.

Barton scored in nine of its ten offensive innings in the twinbill, using multiple big frames in each contest to extend its winning streak to four games in the early portion of Jayhawk Conference play.

The Cougars improve to 12-8 overall while Pratt drops to 0-4 in conference play and 3-16 on the season. Barton now returns home for early conference tests in a two-date homestand, beginning Wednesday against Hutchinson Community College before hosting Butler Community College on Saturday. First pitch for both doubleheaders is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at Cougar Field.

Carly Erpelding&nbsp;delivered a perfect day at the plate, going 6-for-6 while driving in eight runs on a pair of doubles and two home runs, giving the freshman seven long balls on the season.

The top of the Cougar lineup produced 14 of the team's hits, hitting .583 across the twinbill.&nbsp;Laney Wood&nbsp;tallied five hits, including a triple and her first home run of the season, tying Erpelding with eight runs batted in.&nbsp;Kahli Fields&nbsp;followed in the No. 2 spot with another five-hit performance while driving in four runs.&nbsp;Karter Alvord&nbsp;reached base seven times, going 4-for-5 with a double and triple while adding three walks.

In the circle, Barton pitchers limited Pratt to just six hits on the afternoon.&nbsp;Charley Wheeler&nbsp;scattered five hits in the opener while striking out seven to improve to 6-3 on the season.&nbsp;Ellie Crawford&nbsp;moved to 4-0 with the game two victory, allowing just a lone second-inning leadoff hit while striking out three across four innings.&nbsp;Trista Rogers&nbsp;worked the final frame, striking out one while retiring the Beavers in order.

Cougar Softball rides offensive surge to sweep at Pratt 

BOYS SUB-STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES Class 3A Boys Larned Sub-State - Sub-State 1 Friday, March 6 @ Larned Scott City 54, Beloit 38 Class 3A Boys Larned Sub-State - Sub-State 2 Friday, March 6 @ Larned Holcomb 67, Lakin 36 Class 2A Boys Smith Center Sub-State - Sub-State 2 Saturday, March 7 @ Smith Center TMP 52, Stanton County 49 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Friday March 6 @ Osborne&nbsp; Central Plains 56, Sylvan-Lucas 52 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville&nbsp; Kiowa County 48,&nbsp;Meade 30 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 2&nbsp;&nbsp; Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville&nbsp; South Central 46,&nbsp;Spearville 39 1A DII Colby Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Friday March 6 @ Colby&nbsp; Victoria 51,&nbsp;Wallace County 40 ------------------------------------------------------------- GIRLS SUB-STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES Class 3A Girls Larned Sub-State - Sub-State 1 Saturday, March 7 @ Larned Holcomb 52, Goodland 36 Class 3A Girls Larned Sub-State - Sub-State 2 Saturday, March 7 @ Larned Ellsworth 49, Beloit 45 Class 2A Girls Smith Center Sub-State - Sub-State 1 Friday, March 6 @ Smith Center Ellinwood 46, TMP 44&nbsp;&nbsp; 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Saturday March 7 @ Osborne&nbsp; Quinter 63, Osborne 41 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 2&nbsp; Championship Saturday March 7 @ Spearville&nbsp; Central Plains 61, Rock Hills 38 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Saturday March 7 @ Spearville&nbsp; South Gray 39, South Central 24 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 2&nbsp; Championship&nbsp;Saturday March 7&nbsp;@ Spearville&nbsp; Hodgeman County 60, Spearville 39 1A DII Colby Sub-State 1&nbsp; Championship Saturday March 7 @ Colby&nbsp; Dighton 54, Grainfield-Wheatland 35 1A DII Colby Sub-State 2&nbsp; Championship&nbsp;Saturday March 7&nbsp;@ Colby&nbsp; Wallace County 59, Cheylin 58

Area Sub-State Championship game scores

The No. 23 Barton Community College baseball team closed out its four-game Jayhawk Conference opening series Saturday afternoon, splitting a doubleheader with Seward County Community College at Brent Gould Field in Liberal.

The Saints clinched the series in the opener on a first-pitch walk-off solo home run in the bottom of the seventh for a 2-1 victory before the Cougars responded in comeback fashion in the nightcap with a 9-4 win to avoid the sweep.

With the split, Barton moves to 1-3 in Jayhawk Conference play and 15-5 overall while Seward County stands at 3-1 in league action and 9-14 overall. The Cougars will conclude their four-game road trip Thursday afternoon at Pratt Community College, opening a four-game set with the Beavers with a 1:00 p.m. first pitch from Stanion Field before wrapping up the series Saturday at Jimmy Lawson-Danny Biggs Field.

Barton finished with 16 hits across the doubleheader, led by&nbsp;Kyle Walker's 5-for-9 performance as he extended his hitting streak to 14 straight games.&nbsp;Kyle Graves&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jack Jewell&nbsp;paced the Cougar run production with three RBIs apiece across the two contests. Graves delivered the lone run in the opener and added two in the nightcap, while Jewell drove in two of his three RBIs in the backend behind his first collegiate two-run home run during the decisive three-run fourth inning.&nbsp; Game 1 RecapSeward County claimed the opener in walk-off fashion as Blaine Chancy's first-pitch swinging solo home run in the bottom of the seventh lifted the Saints to the 2-1 series clinching victory.

Barton grabbed its lone lead in the fifth inning as Graves's RBI single broke the scoreless deadlock, driving in&nbsp;Carter Helm&nbsp;following his leadoff single two batters earlier. The Saints answered in the home half of the inning, using a two-out RBI single to plate the tying run after a leadoff base hit.

The Cougars squandered a pair of opportunities late, unable to capitalize on a bases-loaded one-out chance in the sixth before stranding their seventh and eighth runners in the seventh, setting up Chancy's walk-off blast to right in the home half.

On the mound,&nbsp;Brian Justice&nbsp;(2-2) suffered the tough-luck loss, working 6.0-plus innings allowing four hits and two earned runs with two walks and three strikeouts on 76 pitches. Walker generated the lone multi-hit performance for the Cougars with a 2-for-4 effort in the leadoff spot.

Game 2 RecapBarton responded in the nightcap, overcoming an early 4-1 deficit with a four-run fourth inning on the way to a 9-4 victory to salvage the doubleheader split.

After Seward County built a 4-1 lead through the opening three frames, the Cougar offense surged ahead in the fourth behind Graves' RBI single and Jewell's two-run home run to seize control.

Barton continued to add on with&nbsp;Kyler Horsman's sacrifice fly in the fifth followed by RBI production from Graves and Jewell in the sixth to extend the lead to 7-4. The Cougars' final two runs came on a Saints error in the seventh and&nbsp;Rhett Winchester's run-scoring single in the ninth.

On the mound,&nbsp;Jake Field&nbsp;(1-0) notched his first collegiate victory in relief, working 4.2 scoreless innings while allowing two hits and striking out four.&nbsp;Drew Koch&nbsp;added 1.2 shutout innings before&nbsp;Trey Mackwood&nbsp;recorded the final out in the ninth to close out the victory.

At the plate, Walker led a trio of multi-hit performances in the nightcap, going 3-for-5 with two runs scored. Winchester and Graves each added a pair of hits including doubles. Winchester finishing 2-for-4 with an RBI while Graves went 2-for-3 driving in two runs.

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