By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

It's full-fledged migration season. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said many species of birds can now be viewed at Cheyenne Bottoms as part of the fall migration. But the numbers and types of birds can vary day to day.

"We like change, and bird migration is all about change," he said. "It literally can be different from hour to hour at times. Having water at Cheyenne Bottoms this fall, which we haven't had for the last three years, makes it that much better."

Particularly large in number are American coots and Franklin's gulls. Black birds are viewed by some as a pest, and though numbers are still down from previous years, they also put on their own show in the evenings.

"We get these things called murmurations, especially in the evenings," Wolf said. "You'll see these huge groups of black birds that congregate. They form these groups that move around, and they almost look like smoke plumes in the distance. It's pretty neat."

Other species spotted in mass at the Bottoms in recent weeks include double-crested cormorants, grebes, and American White pelicans, which differ from brown pelicans that are most likely to be seen in coastal regions. Cool weather may be pushing the birds south, but Wolf said there are more significant factors, such as shorter days that are driving the birds into warmer regions.

"There have been numerous bird watchers coming to the area and spending several days touring Cheyenne Bottoms and going down to Quivira," Wolf said. "Quivira is in wonderful shape. There have been some huge groups of birds there, as well. The habitats - they're both wetlands - but inevitably, they hold different things. There has been some excellent bird watching down there."

Cranes seem to favor Quiviria National Wildlife Refuge over the Bottoms. Wolf will be speaking at the Audobon of Kansas Celebration of Cranes, which is scheduled for this Friday and Saturday in Sterling. The event will feature guided tours through Quiviria.  

Fall migration in full swing at Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira Refuge

The Barton Community College Library will team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a “Writer’s Workshop” from 6–7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 in the Cavanaugh Room of the Learning Resource Center and via Zoom at&nbsp;<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2375299435" target="_blank">https://zoom.us/j/2375299435</a>.

Participants will join “Prairie Ink” editors and special guest presenter Barton Theatre Instructor Jack Greenwood for a playwriting workshop. The session will explore what it means for a story to be theatrical. Attendees will discuss how to craft a plot for the stage, write directions for staging, and engage a live audience while focusing on format and structure. The event is open to students, faculty, staff, and community members.

The workshop will also serve as an introduction for high school-aged participants ahead of the inaugural High School Playwrights Festival, scheduled for spring 2026. Area high schools will be invited to a creative forum where they can draft and workshop ten-minute plays for submission to a contest. Six chosen plays will be performed as readings on a live stage April 18&nbsp;as a collaboration with both Barton Theatre and the greater Barton community. Following the performance, a winner will be named as the first-ever champion playwright and receive a prize.

More details about the festival will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:PrairieInk@bartonccc.edu">PrairieInk@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://prairieink.bartonccc.edu/">prairieink.bartonccc.edu</a>

Barton Theatre Instructor Jack Greenwood to lead Nov. writing workshop

City offices and Public Transportation service will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 11,&nbsp;in observance of Veterans Day. Sanitation normally serviced on Tuesday will be serviced on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

In addition to the Holiday, City Hall will be closed to the public on Monday, Nov. 10, and Wednesday, Nov. 12 to accommodate software training and configuration. All other City offices and services will remain open. City staff will be available to assist customers by phone and email. Payments will continue to be accepted at our drop box, by phone or text, through our website, or via App. More details on payment options can be found below.

Customers are welcome to call City Hall or email utilitclerk@russellcity.org for assistance. Staff will return emails as soon as possible. Thank you for your cooperation as we work to update and train on our new software to best serve our community.

As a reminder, when City Hall is closed, please utilize the drop box or the multiple options below to pay your city bill:

On Our Website: Visit www.russellcity.org and search Online Payments

By Phone and text Call 1-877-265-3892 and follow the prompts. This option will allow you to enroll in Text 2&nbsp;Pay also!

QR Code Scan the QR code on the front of your bill. You will be directed to our website to pay your bill.

On the APP Download the MyCivic Utilities APP from your Google Play or Apple App Store.&nbsp;Search for Russell, KS.

Upcoming Russell city office closures due to holiday observance and staff training

On Thursday, Mayor Cody Schmidt proclaimed Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, as Crest Theatre&nbsp;Day in the City of Great Bend, in celebration of the historic theatre’s 75th anniversary.

Located at the corner of Lakin and Kansas Avenue, the Crest Theatre&nbsp;has stood as a vibrant landmark and entertainment venue in the Great Bend town square since its grand opening on Nov. 9, 1950.

The City of Great Bend took ownership of the Crest Theatre&nbsp;in 1992 and has preserved its historical integrity in partnership with operating group the Great Bend Community Theatre. The building was officially added to the National Register of Historical Places in 2005.

The Crest Theatre’s mission is to promote the arts and serve the public through volunteerism that reflects the values of community pride, creativity and civic spirit. The Great Bend Community Theatre&nbsp;utilizes the building to enrich the community with its live productions along with children’s summer program that develops the talent of young performers and future leaders.

To commemorate the anniversary, Bob Marsh and the Great Bend Community Theatre&nbsp;group are hosting a pair of showings of “Two Weeks with Love” -- the same film that debuted&nbsp;at the original opening -- at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2025. Doors open at 1 p.m. with an admission cost of $1 as seats are claimed on a first come first serve basis.

The City of Great Bend will present the Great Bend Community Theatre&nbsp;with the proclamation on Thursday, Nov. 6 at the Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Schmidt invites all citizens to join in celebrating this historic milestone, honoring the Crest as a historical landmark of our community and supporting its continued legacy for generations to come.

Nov. 9 Proclaimed as Crest Theatre Day in the city of Great Bend

Great Bend High School (GBHS) is honored to host its annual Veterans Day Assembly, organized by the Social Studies Department, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in the main gym. This cherished event, open to all veterans and community members, pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served our country.

Veterans and guests are invited to arrive between 8:50–9:25 a.m. for a light breakfast that will be served in the GBHS Commons prior to the assembly.

Barbara Austin, Social Science Teacher at GBHS, shared, “This assembly is a heartfelt thank you to our veterans—a chance for our school and community to recognize the profound impact of their service.”

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Sergeant First Class Aaron C. Parr, a distinguished veteran of the Kansas National Guard and a proud GBHS graduate from the Class of 2005.

The assembly will also include performances by the GBHS choir, band, and orchestra, along with a flag presentation by Legion Riders. To support accessibility for all attendees, GBHS will provide golf carts to assist guests from the parking lot to the gym entrance in addition to some reserved parking.

Veteran Breakfast: 8:50 a.m., GBHS Commons

Veterans Day Assembly: 9:30 a.m., GBHS Main Gym

GBHS encourages veterans, families, and community members to attend this special event and join in saluting the heroes among us. For more information, please contact GBHS at 620-793-1521.

Speaker Biography: Born in Great Bend in 1987, SFC Aaron C. Parr exemplifies the spirit of service and commitment that defines America’s military personnel. A 2005 GBHS graduate, he currently serves as a Recruiting &amp; Retention NCO with the Kansas National Guard, holding the rank of Sergeant First Class (E7) with 14.5 years of service.

SFC Parr was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, serving in multiple technical and leadership roles, including Electromagnetic Spectrum Manager, System Administrator, and Cable Systems Installer-Maintainer. He is a recipient of numerous honors, including six Army Commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with three Campaign Stars.

He holds an Associate of Science in General Studies from Fort Hays State University and has completed advanced military training, such as the Mission Command Digital Master Gunner program.

SFC Parr is married and is a proud father of five children. He currently resides in Ellinwood, Kansas, continuing to serve his community and nation.

Great Bend High School to honor veterans with annual Veterans Day Assembly

Out with the old and in with the new. Elections give people a chance to choose their government, whether that be an incumbent candidate with experience or a new candidate. Alan Moeder is a little of both. On a Wednesday morning appearance on 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM's "AM Great Bend Show with Steve Webster," Moeder said he wants to build on his time as a city council member as he takes of the job from Cody Schmidt.

"We've accomplished a lot in six years," Moeder said. "With Cody deciding not to run again, I wanted to step in and continue what he's created and keep Great Bend moving forward."

Moeder has called Great Bend home for more than 66 years. A Great Bend High School and Barton Community College graduate, he started his own plumbing business in 1982. More than 40 years later, he is still the owner and operator of that business. He has volunteered for Columbus Club, Relay for Life, was a Boy Scouts leader, and serves on the Roots and Wings Foundation Board. 

"I'd probably tell you 10 years ago, if somebody had told me I'd be where I am now, I would have laughed at them," said Moeder. "Great Bend has been good to me. It's been good to my family. I decided it was time to give back to Great Bend and give it my time and energy."

Moeder said he will have some influence over city businesses, but much of the power remains with the city council. The mayor only votes to break a tie. Moeder said there is a lot going on in Great Bend now, including the groundbreaking of a new hotel in March, plans for a new swimming pool, and renovations at the SRCA Dragstrip with plans to resume racing next year. 

Moeder ready to 'keep Great Bend moving forward' as new mayor

Booked in Ray, Mark A on Barton County District Court Warrant #8T2025CR0386 for Theft, bond set at $5,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Carson, John C. on Russell County District Court Warrant #RS20252CR000071 for Failure to Appear. Cash bond of $500.00 paid in whole.

Booked Mills-Dotson, Tiara A. on Barton County District Court case #25-1844 for Aggravated Battery, and Aggravated Assault; bond set at $75,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Booked in Espino-Hernandez, Janeth on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant # 202400893 for Contempt of Court, Indirect with a bond set at $759.50 cash only, and Great Bend Municipal Court case # 25-848 for Driving While Suspended &amp; Basic Speed Rule with a bond set at $500.00 cash/surety.

Released Linenberger, Kenzie N. on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2025CR0131 for Contempt Of Court by posting a $2,500.00 Surety bond through Around the clock bail bonds, #8T2025CR0132 for Contempt Of Court by posting a $2,500.00 Surety bond through Around the clock bail bonds, #8T2025CR0430 for Violation of Protection Order by posting a $2,500.00 Surety bond through Around the clock bail bonds.

Released Espino- Hernandez, Janeth On Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1848 for Driving While Suspended, Basic Speed Rule. Bonded out by posting a $500.00 surety bond through around the clock bail bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (11/5)

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 68. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 43. South southwest wind 6 to 9 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 68. Northwest wind 6 to 10 mph. Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 43. Southwest wind 5 to 9 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 46. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 52. Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 37.

Veterans Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 67.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

On Nov. 4,&nbsp; at approximately 9 p.m., officers with the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to the area of the 2400 Block of Dike Road, Great Bend, in reference to an unknown disturbance. Upon the officer’s arrival, they contacted a male victim with a large cut on his forehead. The victim stated that he had been at the river near the North Main bridge when he got into an argument with Tiara Mills-Dotson, 30. The victim stated that during the argument, Mills-Dotson charged at him and struck him in the head with an unknown object. 

While speaking with a witness, it was determined that the object used was a butcher knife, which was located and recovered at the scene. Mills-Dotson was transported and booked into the Barton County jail for the charges of Aggravated Battery and for Aggravated Assault (DV) in lieu of bond.

Anyone with information on regarding this incident or any crime is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, the Great Bend / Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Great Bend police make arrest after stabbing near river bridge

By DALE HOGG Barton County Media Consultant

The plans for the county’s observation of Veterans Day Tuesday, Nov. 11, were announced when the Barton County Commission met Tuesday morning, including office closures, a veterans’ memorial ceremony and rules for cemetery decorations.

All&nbsp;Barton County office buildings, including the Health Department, the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office, and the Landfill, will close for the holiday. Emergency services, however, will operate as normal.

It was also noted that the Commission will not meet on the Tuesday morning of Veterans Day. The next regular commission meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday (not Tuesday as usual), Nov 17.

A&nbsp;Veterans Day ceremony&nbsp;is scheduled for 1 p.m. that day at the Golden Belt Veterans Memorial. The Memorial Parks Advisory Committee organized the event, which will take place at Golden Belt Memorial Park, 59 NW 50 Road, Great Bend, Kansas. County officials may be in attendance.

The commission also reminded residents of the&nbsp;decoration rules&nbsp;for county-owned Golden Belt and Hillcrest memorial parks. Decorations for the holiday may now be placed on graves seven days prior to and must be removed seven days after holidays, including Veterans Day.

County employees will remove any items left after the removal deadline and will not attempt to locate them. The county also stated it will not be responsible for any loss or damage to items left during the holiday periods.

Barton County announces Veterans Day closures, ceremony planned for Nov. 11

Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic Chief Executive Officer Kile Magner has announced he will be stepping down from his position at the end of the year after 10 years of service. Magner has accepted an administrative role at another healthcare facility and will begin his new position in January 2026.

Magner has served as CEO since 2015, leading the hospital through a period of tremendous growth and transformation — including the construction and opening of Ellinwood’s new hospital facility in 2024.

“When I first walked through these doors, I could never have imagined how much we would accomplish together — or how deeply this place, and the entire team, would come to mean to me,” Magner said. “One of the proudest milestones of my life will always be standing beside the team as we built and opened the new hospital — not just a new building, but a lasting symbol of hope, teamwork, and commitment to the community we serve.”

During his tenure, Magner oversaw expansions in patient care services, the modernization of hospital operations, and strengthened partnerships across central Kansas.

“What I will cherish most isn’t the projects or milestones — it’s the people,” Magner said. “The laughter, the problem-solving, the compassion shown to patients and to one another — this hospital family has been a privilege to lead.”

The Ellinwood Hospital Board of Trustees expressed appreciation for Magner’s leadership and dedication to the organization and community.

“Kile’s leadership over the past decade has positioned Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic for a strong future,” board chair David Gonzales said. “His commitment to patient care, fiscal responsibility, and community partnership has left a lasting mark. We thank him for his years of service and wish him the very best in his next chapter.”

Magner’s last day will be the end of December. The hospital’s Board of Trustees has begun discussions regarding transition planning and the search for his successor.

“Leaving isn’t easy,” Magner said. “This hospital has been far more than a workplace — it’s been part of my life, and this team will always be part of my family. I leave with tremendous pride and full confidence that the future here is bright.”

Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic CEO announces departure after a decade of leadership

$20K Christmas Cash Giveaway Official Rules

Daily Registration Locations and Sponsored in part by: - Cornerstone Automotive and Tire - Mayo Money Management - GB Tires - Great Bend Appliance - Boone's Maytag - Z's Liquormart - Nex-Tech - Sutherlands - UPS Store/Westside Market - Nextech Wireless - Hoisington Veterinary Hospital - Memorial Art Company - Dawson Jewelers - Eldridge Fencing - Jimlo Glass Center

$20K Christmas Cash Giveaway

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 

- Erin Beck, head coach of Great Bend Football

-Nathan Broekelman, head coach of Barton Community College Wrestling

- Jim Cartisser, head coach of Barton Community College Volleyball

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

The No. 18 Barton Community College men's basketball team suffered its first blemish of the 2025-26 season Wednesday evening, falling 70-66 to receiving votes Mineral Area College inside the Bob Sechrest Field House in Park Hills, Missouri.

The Cougars drop to 2-1 on the season, while the Cardinals notch their first victory of the year to move to 1-2 overall. Barton will have the weekend off before returning home Tuesday for its 2025-26 home opener, hosting State Fair Community College in a 7:30 p.m. tip-off inside the newly renovated Fleske Fieldhouse.

Barton jumped out of the gates quickly, racing to a 17-7 advantage by the 11:04 mark of the first half. Mineral Area countered with an 11-0 stretch to grab its first lead, but the Cougars closed the half strong, finishing on an 11-2 run over the final 2:40 to take a 33-26 lead into the locker rooms.

The Cardinals regained control midway through the second half, using a 12-2 surge to go ahead 40-37. Barton clawed back behind a perimeter flurry, stringing together four straight three pointers over a two-minute stretch, the sequence starting by&nbsp;Blake Rucker's first triple, followed by&nbsp;Pavel Ivanov's and capped by Rucker's third in that span to draw the Cougars even at 53-53 with 7:22 remaining.

Following an&nbsp;Aris Rodriguez&nbsp;bucket to knot it back up at 57-all,&nbsp;Noah Williams&nbsp;gave Barton the lead twice with back-to-back baskets, the final coming at 61-59 with 1:55 to play. However, a decisive 8-0 Mineral Area response in a 45-second span generated the separation needed at 67-61. The Cougars trimmed it to two with 2.8 seconds remaining, but a pair of Cardinal free throw tosses spoiled one final Barton rally.

No. 18 Barton edged late, suffer first setback of season at Mineral Area

The fifth-ranked Barton Community College volleyball team opened postseason play in commanding fashion Wednesday night, sweeping Pratt Community College (25-23, 25-13, 25-11) in the opening round of the Region 6/Plains District Tournament.

Behind a sharp .365 team attack and a balanced offensive spread, the Cougars extended their win streak to 12, improving to 29-5 overall while eliminating the eighth-seeded Beavers, who closed their season at 12-25.

Barton now advances to Saturday's 5:00 p.m. semifinal at Fort Hays State University's Gross Memorial Coliseum against Dodge City Community College, needing two more victories to secure its second straight NJCAA Division I National Tournament berth.

Aubrey Olander&nbsp;took center stage in the victory, breaking the program's career record for assisted blocks with five more on the night to move past Laura Macek's mark set in 2009. The sophomore middle's milestone came alongside a steady offensive outing of six kills on .500 hitting, continuing her season-long presence as one of the conference's top two-way front-row players.

Olander's presence helped Barton dominate the net with 48 kills to Pratt's 30 while limiting the visitors to a .124 hitting clip.

Caroliny Cristiny&nbsp;and&nbsp;Stasa Stamenkovic&nbsp;each tallied 10 kills, with Cristiny swinging .409 and adding an ace, while Stamenkovic contributed 16 digs for her 16th double-double along with three blocks.

Indigo Pruitt&nbsp;was nearly flawless with nine kills on a .750 attack, and&nbsp;Brylynn Wicker&nbsp;chipped in six kills on a career-best .625 efficiency.

The Cougars' setting tandem of&nbsp;Ori Briger&nbsp;and&nbsp;Mileah Neal&nbsp;combined for 42 assists and two aces, directing the offense to set efficiencies of .298, .400, and .444 across the sweep.

Mina Kaneko&nbsp;helped anchor the defense line with 15 digs and two aces helping Barton to its 18th sweep of the season and third straight semifinal berth.

Record Book Watch: Mina Kaneko- 6th – Single Season Digs (589): 6 away from Ashlee Maples' 595 (2005); 39 from Giselle de Moura's 628 (2011)- 5th – Career Digs (1,031): 75 away from Tasiah Nunnery's 1,121 (2020–23)

Aubrey Olander- 20th – Single Season Total Blocks (143): 3 shy of the top ten; 5 shy of Danielle Geronymo's 157 (1998)- 4th – Career Total Blocks (271): 8 shy of Kara Robeson's 284 (2006–07)- T-2nd – Single Season Assisted Blocks (132): Broke tie with Sarah Schinstock's 127 (2005); Tied with Sunshine Misa-Uli's 132 (2005); 12 shy of Laura Macek's program record 144 (2008)- 1st - Career Assisted Blocks (244): Surpassed Laura Macek's program record 241 (2008–09)

Olander breaks record as No. 5 Barton Volleyball sweeps Pratt to advance to third straight Region semifinals

The Barton Community College women's soccer team saw its season come to a close Wednesday afternoon, falling 6-0 to No. 7 Cowley College in the Plains District/Region 6 semifinals in Arkansas City.

The Cougars conclude the 2025 campaign at 12-8-2 overall, while the top seeded Tigers remain unbeaten at 13-0-4 and advance to Saturday's Plains District Championship match against second-seeded Hutchinson Community College, following the Blue Dragons' 1-0 victory over third-seeded Butler Community College.

The Tigers jumped out early and never looked back, scoring five first-half goals including a pair off corner-kick set pieces, a fortunate upper-90 strike from distance, and two more in the closing minute. Cowley added the final goal midway through the second half.

Playing without leading goal scorer&nbsp;Sara Aguirre&nbsp;for a second straight match, Barton's offense was limited to seven total shots, placing just one on frame, while goalkeeper&nbsp;Leonie Chambe&nbsp;faced 33 attempts and registered eight saves in the loss.

Barton women's soccer season ends with Plains District Semifinal loss to No. 7 Cowley

For the sixth time this season,&nbsp;Mina Kaneko&nbsp;of the 5th-ranked Barton Community College volleyball team has been named the KJCCC Division I Defensive Player of the Week.

The week eleven honor comes after Kaneko anchored Barton's back row through a three-win conference stretch, helping the Cougars close the regular season on an 11-match win streak and secure their third straight KJCCC Division I regular-season championship.

Averaging 5.20 digs per set across 10 total sets, Kaneko also contributed eight service aces and seven assists to round out her week's performance. She opened the stretch with a standout 24-dig, four-ace showing in a road win at Seward County, added 15 digs and two aces in a sweep of Garden City, and capped the regular season with 13 digs and two aces in a sweep of Cloud County.

Kaneko's recognition marks the 12th conference or national weekly award earned by the Cougars this season. Her six weekly honors (Weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 11) lead a decorated group that also includes&nbsp;Ori Briger's three (Weeks 2, 9, and 10),&nbsp;Stasa Stamenkovic's two (Weeks 4 and 7), and one apiece from middle blockers&nbsp;Aubrey Olander&nbsp;(Week 3) and&nbsp;Indigo Pruitt&nbsp;(Week 3).

Kaneko and the Cougars now turn their focus to postseason play, entering tonight's Region 6/Plains District opener as the top seed with a 28-5 overall record. Barton hosts eighth seeded Pratt Community College (3-13, 12-24) at 6:30 p.m., with the winner advancing to Saturday's 5:00 p.m. semifinal at Fort Hays State University's Gross Memorial Coliseum. The championship match is slated for Sunday at 2:00 p.m., with an automatic bid to the NJCAA Division I National Tournament on the line.

Barton's Kaneko closes out regular season with sixth KJCCC Defensive Player of the Week award

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Marshawn Kneeland, a Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman in his second NFL season and a former Western Michigan standout, has died. He was 24. The Cowboys say Kneeland died overnight. There were no other details on his death, and agent Jonathan Perzley asked for privacy. Kneeland was a second-round draft pick in 2024. His rookie season was off to a promising start before he was sidelined for five games by a knee injury. Kneeland had his first career sack in the season opener this season against Philadelphia. He played in seven of the nine games this year.

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — A home owned by Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra has been heavily damaged by a massive fire. Miami-Dade County fire officials say the blaze was reported early Thursday morning. Spoelstra was not at home when the fire broke out. He and the Heat played in Denver on Wednesday night and their flight back to Miami landed at 5:11 a.m. Spoelstra arrived at the home shortly after with fire crews working to contain the blaze. Smoke was still visible around 8 a.m. but most of the fire appeared to be contained. Fire officials have scheduled a news briefing for later Thursday.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The NHL now has a 900-goal club. Charter member: Alex Ovechkin, of course. The Washington star pushed his record total to a new level Wednesday night, scoring against the St. Louis Blues to reach 900. The milestone came 2:39 into the second period. Ovechkin was lurking in the offensive zone and was at the bottom of the right circle when he backhanded Jakob Chychrun’s rebound past a sliding Jordan Binnington, who wasn’t able to recover in time. The bench cleared to celebrate the 40-year-old’s accomplishment, while Binnington tucked the milestone puck into his pants.

Just three weeks into the season, UCLA’s DeShaun Foster and Virginia Tech’s Brent Pry lost their jobs. Since then, more coaches have been fired, including high-profile names like James Franklin and Mike Gundy. By Week 10, buyout totals for coaches have reached around $185 million. This raises questions about whether athletic departments can continue to spend their way out of problems. Experts say the cycle of firing and rehiring is unlikely to stop. Schools may need to consider shorter contracts and more performance-based incentives to manage costs better.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The NFL's first game in Spain will feature a Latin music showcase with Bizarrap and Daddy Yankee performing at halftime. The league on Thursday announced the halftime performance for when the Washington Commanders face the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 16 at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This marks Daddy Yankee’s return to the stage after retirement and his first live performance with Bizarrap. They will debut a new collaboration during the show. The event is part of the NFL's effort to spotlight Latin artists and expand its global cultural footprint. Pregame performances will include national anthems by the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band and vocalist Karina Pasian.

The NFL season is halfway through, and some interesting trends have emerged. Scoring is up, partly due to new special teams rules and more aggressive fourth-down plays. Offenses are getting bigger, using extra linemen and tight ends more than ever. No dominant team has emerged, with every team having at least two losses after nine weeks. The Kansas City Chiefs, despite being Super Bowl favorites, have a 5-4 record. The AFC might see four new division winners, while the NFC has more stability with the Philadelphia Eagles leading. There have been more dramatic finishes, with 35 games decided by a score in the final moments.

NBA staff members have met with congressional staffers to discuss the league’s relationship with sportsbooks. This comes after federal indictments of Miami guard Terry Rozier, Portland coach Chauncey Billups and others last month. The meeting, held Wednesday, did not include NBA Commissioner Adam Silver or any sitting members of Congress. Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell have requested information on the NBA's gambling policies and why Rozier was cleared to play after sportsbooks flagged unusual betting patterns in a March 2023 game. Rozier was accused of conspiring to help associates win bets based on his performance.

MIAMI (AP) — FIFA has announced the creation of a peace prize, which it plans to award for the first time at the World Cup draw on Dec. 5 in Washington. The FIFA Peace Prize will recognize exceptional actions for peace, according to soccer's governing body. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the importance of acknowledging those who work to end conflicts and promote unity. FIFA says the award will be presented annually. Infantino will present the prize this year.

Closing arguments have been presented in McLaren Racing’s lawsuit against IndyCar star Alex Palou. The trial in London’s High Court began in late September. McLaren is seeking $20.7 million in damages, claiming Palou breached his contract by backing out of a deal to join their IndyCar team. Palou argues the contracts were based on false promises of a Formula 1 seat. McLaren says Palou's decision led to financial losses and forced them to find a replacement driver. Palou's defense also accuses McLaren of destroying evidence by deleting WhatsApp messages related to the case.

MIAMI (AP) — Lionel Messi believes there's still more for him to accomplish in soccer. Speaking at a business conference on Wednesday, the Inter Miami star said he hasn't reflected on his legacy yet and plans to enjoy playing until retirement. Messi, a World Cup champion and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, was the final speaker at the America Business Summit. He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome in Miami, where he's living for the first time. Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 and signed a three-year extension last month. He looks forward to playing in the team's new stadium.

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE Final Toronto 5 Utah 3 Final Washington 6 St. Louis 1 Final Calgary 5 Columbus 1 Final San Jose 6 Seattle 1 Final Chicago 5 Vancouver 2

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final (23) Creighton 92 South Dakota 76

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Thursday, November 6 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Friday, November 7 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ North Carolina 6:00PM B104/KHOK - K-Preps Kansas Kickoff Show 6:30PM B104 - H.S. Football - 5A Playoffs - Bishop-Carroll @ Great Bend 6:30PM KHOK - H.S. Football - 2A Playoffs - Hillsboro @ Hoisington&nbsp;&nbsp; Saturday, November 8 10:30AM 1590/95.5FM - College Football - Indiana @ Penn State 2:00PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Football - Kansas @ Arizona 2:30PM 1590/95.5FM - College Football - Oregon @ Iowa Sunday, November 9 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NFL Football - Arizona @ Seattle Monday, November 10 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Tuesday, November 11 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 6:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - TAMU-Corpus Christi @ Kansas 7:15PM - Cougar Basketball - State Fair Men @ Barton Wednesday, November 12 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day

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Wednesday on Sports Day(Watch)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have proven this season that they can beat just about anybody when they're playing their best.

They can lose quite easily when they are not.

It's a marked difference from past years, when Kansas City could overcome penalties, dropped passes and other miscues to win anyway. The Chiefs went 15-2 last season largely because they were able to stay in games they had no business winning, but the good fortune has not carried over; they find themselves 5-4 after&nbsp;a 28-21 loss in Buffalo on Sunday.

“We've had great moments and we've had bad moments,”&nbsp;Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. "We've got to be more consistent as a team. I've got to be more consistent at quarterback. We've got to be able to battle.

“We've been in a lot of these types of close games in our history, and they are not going our way now. So how can we deal with that adversity? How can we be better and learn from it? You can only learn from so many losses."

The game against the Bills marked a fitting bookend to the first half of the season for Kansas City, because it bared a close resemblance to its season opener in Brazil. In that one, the Chiefs played similarly poorly, had to deal with injuries that popped up during the game and still had a chance at the end, only for their defense to come up short when it needed a stop.

Indeed, health is becoming a problem for the Chiefs again, especially along the offensive line.

They hope to get first-round draft pick Josh Simmons back at some point, but the talented left tackle has been away from the team to deal with a family situation for several weeks. Then, against Buffalo, right tackle Jawaan Taylor hurt his ankle, and for a moment, left guard Kingsley Suamataia also left the game, leaving Kansas City with a patchwork offensive line.

Throw in a sprained knee ligament that sidelined running back Isiah Pacheco, and it was hardly a surprise that the Chiefs only managed to match their second-lowest point total this season; they scored 17 in a loss against Philadelphia.

“We've got to do a little better than that, obviously, when we're playing a good football team,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “It starts with me, doing my job better, putting guys in good position there to make some plays.”

Now the Chiefs are in a strange position: If the playoffs happened this week, they would be on the outside looking in.

Instead of fighting for the No. 1 seed down the stretch, they are forced to fight for any seed they can get.

“It's going to be an uphill battle when we get back,” Mahomes said, “but I think our guys are up to it.”

The Chiefs are getting what they hoped from their wide receiver triumvirate of Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown.

Worthy missed time after hurting his shoulder in the opener against the Chargers, and Rice missed six games while serving an&nbsp;NFL suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy. But since the three of them have been available, they have managed to kick-start an offense that until this past Sunday had begun to resemble the Reid-and-Mahomes offenses of yesteryear.

The Kansas City defensive line has been pushed around far too often this season, and it may have had its worst game yet against the Bills, when James Cook ran for 114 yards and Josh Allen kept sneaking into the end zone for touchdowns.

Defensive back Trent McDuffie is going to cost the Chiefs a fortune when the two sides agree to a contract extension. He's been the best player on defense all season, and he capped the first half of the year with 12 tackles and a sack against Buffalo.

Defensive tackle Chris Jones has just two sacks through nine games, putting one of the NFL's highest-paid players on pace for his least-productive season in that department since his rookie year, when he was a part-time starter in 2016.

The Chiefs hope to get Pacheco and Taylor back after the bye.

5 — That's the number of losses in six regular-season games against Buffalo that Mahomes has started since the 2019 season. It also is the number of losses combined that Kansas City has in 35 games against the AFC West.

The Chiefs have a week to get healthy before visiting Denver on Nov. 16. They are just 1-3 on the road this season.

Chiefs' struggles continue, with injuries and inconsistency contributing to 5-4 first half of season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Catcher Salvador Perez will remain with the Kansas City Royals rather than become a free agent, agreeing Tuesday to a two-year contact.

A nine-time All-Star, the 36-year-old had an&nbsp;$82 million, four-year contract&nbsp;that included a $13.5 million club option for 2026 with a $2 million buyout.

“Salvy is a Royals legend and one of the most important players this franchise has ever had,” general manager J.J. Picollo said in a statement. “We had the option for next year, but everyone knew we wanted to make sure his legacy with us continued longer than that. We appreciate Salvy’s commitment to the Royals, and we’re just as excited as our fans.”

Perez, Kansas City's captain, was MVP of the 2015 World Series, when the Royals won their second title and first since 1985.

Perez hit .236 with 30 homers and 100 RBIs, his third season with 100 or more. A five-time Gold Glove winner, he has a .264 average with 303 homers and 1,016 RBIs in 14 seasons, all with the Royals.

Salvador Perez agrees to a two-year contact to remain with the Royals

WASHINGTON (AP) —A federal judge in Rhode Island ordered the Trump administration Thursday to find the money to fully fund SNAP benefits for November.

The ruling by U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. gave President Donald Trump's administration until Friday to make the payments through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, though it's unlikely the 42 million Americans — about 1 in 8 — will see the money on the debit cards they use for groceries that quickly.

The order was in response to a challenge from cities and nonprofits complaining that the administration was only offering to cover 65% of the maximum benefit, a decision that would leave some recipients getting nothing for this month.

“The defendants failed to consider the practical consequences associated with this decision to only partially fund SNAP,” McConnell said. “They knew that there would be a long delay in paying partial SNAP payments and failed to consider the harms individuals who rely on those benefits would suffer.”

McConnell was one of two judges who ruled last week that the administration could not skip November's benefits entirely because of the federal shutdown.

It has been a week of twists and turns for SNAP beneficiaries

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-shutdown-lawsuits-deadline-4af8b0dec6cd31cddd023cc99c131b73">Last week's rulings</a>&nbsp;ordered the government to use one emergency reserve fund containing $4.6 billion to pay for SNAP for November but gave it leeway to tap other money to make the full payments, which cost between $8.5 billion and $9 billion each month.

On Monday, the administration said it would not use additional money, saying it was up to Congress to appropriate the funds for the program.

The next day, Trump appeared to threaten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-11-4-2025">not to pay the benefit</a>&nbsp;s at all unless Democrats in Congress agreed to reopen the government. His press secretary later said that the partial benefits were being paid for November — and that it is future payments that are at risk if the shutdown continues.

Late Wednesday, the USDA, which runs the program, said in a filing in federal court in Rhode Island that it had done further analysis and found that the maximum benefit will be 65% of the usual amount.

Speaking at the Greater Boston Food Bank in Massachusetts Thursday morning, Democratic Gov. Maura Healey said the Trump administration is sending mixed messages: “Come on. You know, you’re going to partially fund food for Americans? You’re going let people starve?"

Associated Press writers Sara Cline in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut; and Gary Robertson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.

Federal judge orders Trump admin. to fully fund SNAP benefits in November

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP) — A jury in Virginia awarded $10 million Thursday to a former teacher who was shot by a 6-year-old student, siding with her claims in a lawsuit that an ex-administrator ignored repeated warnings that the child had a gun.

The jury returned its decision against Ebony Parker, a former assistant principal at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News.

Abby Zwerner was shot in January 2023 as she sat at a reading table in her first-grade classroom. She had sought $40 million against Parker in the lawsuit.

Zwerner&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abby-zwerner-teacher-shot-6yearold-virginia-newport-news-richneck-118dd583e32c04b72b5f8f793ffbfb2b">spent nearly two weeks in the hospital</a>, required six surgeries and does not have the full use of her left hand. A bullet narrowly missed her heart and remains in her chest.

Zwerner did not address reporters outside the courthouse after the decision was announced. One of her attorneys, Diane Toscano, said the verdict sends a message that what happened at the school "was wrong and is not going to be tolerated, that safety has to be the first concern at school. I think it’s a great message.”

Parker was the only defendant in the lawsuit. A judge previously dismissed the district’s superintendent and the school principal as defendants.

The shooting sent shock waves through this military shipbuilding community and the country at large, with many wondering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-school-shootings-crime-teaching-080df45fb792de5c825b151315ba8a8c">how a child so young could gain access to a gun</a>&nbsp;and shoot his teacher.

The lawsuit said Parker had a duty to protect Zwerner and others from harm after being told about the gun. Zwerner’s attorneys said Parker failed to act in the hours before the shooting after several school staff members told her that the student had a gun in his backpack.

“Who would think a 6-year-old would bring a gun to school and shoot their teacher?” Zwerner’s attorney, Diane Toscano, told the jury. “It’s Dr. Parker’s job to believe that that is possible. It’s her job to investigate it and get to the very bottom of it.”

Parker did not testify in the lawsuit. Her attorney, Daniel Hogan, had warned jurors about hindsight bias and “Monday morning quarterbacking” in the shooting.

““You will be able to judge for yourself whether or not this was foreseeable,” Hogan said. “That’s the heart of this case.

“The law knows that it is fundamentally unfair to judge another person’s decisions based on stuff that came up after the fact. The law requires you to examine people’s decisions at the time they make them.”

The shooting occurred on the first day after the student had returned from a suspension for slamming Zwerner’s phone two days earlier.

Zwerner testified she first heard about the gun prior to class recess from a reading specialist who had been tipped off by students. The shooting occurred a few hours later. Despite her injuries, Zwerner was able to hustle her students out of the classroom. She eventually passed out in the school office.

Zwerner testified&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newport-news-virginia-teacher-shot-ce9f3d91d987607d0d6de4e6eb3114ba">she believed that she had died</a>&nbsp;that day.

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