Runners, walkers and trotters are encouraged to sign up for the upcoming Sunflower Diversified Services Turkey Trot, which benefits people with special needs, as well as the Community Food Bank of Barton County.

The fifth-annual event is set for Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Park Zoo. Those who bring non-perishable food items will not only support Sunflower individuals with developmental disabilities and delays, they will add to shelves at the food bank.

“Since this fun event is scheduled for right before Thanksgiving, we want to help those in need to have access to a few ingredients for a holiday meal,” said Cody Harris, Sunflower director of planned giving and community support. “This is one way Sunflower can give back to the community that gives so generously to the people we serve.

“The Turkey Trot has been popular for the last four years and we hope for a good turnout this time around too. The money we raise and food we collect can make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Participants can walk, run or trot to help Sunflower provide adaptive equipment, medical and dental care, and other services.

“Another thing I love about the Turkey Trot is that Sunflower’s Aktion Club members volunteer to serve as street blockers for the runners and walkers,” Harris said. “It is great to see them high-five participants while cheering them on.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available to anyone who wants to support the charitable causes.

Event details The early-bird-registration deadline is Oct. 31; the fee for the 5K race is $30 and Fun Run Race is $25. Both are $5 more after the deadline. Early registrants will receive T-shirts; after Oct. 31, shirts are available while supplies last.

Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The 5K starts at 10:30 a.m. and the Fun Run one-mile race a few minutes later. It all begins and ends at Brit Spaugh Park.

Those who donate two non-perishable items for the food bank will be entered into a drawing for a Garmin watch.

Age divisions for the 5K are: up to 14; 15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-54; and 55 and older. Medals go to the top three finishers in each division.

The overall male and female winners receive a turkey. Fun run participants earn ribbons.

“We encourage local and area residents to mark this on their calendars,” Harris commented. “Sunflower always looks forward to promoting this healthy activity that brings our community together. It’s a good reason to get out and get moving for worthy causes at the beginning of the holiday season.” To register, visit Sunflower’s website, www.sunflowerdiv.com. For more information, contact Harris by calling 620-792-1321.

Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 59th year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760999722220.jpeg" alt="This photo depicts action at last year’s Sunflower Diversified Services Turkey Trot. This year’s event is set for Saturday, Nov. 22." />
 <figcaption>This photo depicts action at last year’s Sunflower Diversified Services Turkey Trot. This year’s event is set for Saturday, Nov. 22.</figcaption>
 </figure>Runners, walkers and trotters are encouraged to sign up for the upcoming Sunflower Diversified Services Turkey Trot, which benefits people with special needs, as well as the Community Food Bank of Barton County.The fifth-annual event is set for Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Park Zoo. Those who bring non-perishable food items will not only support Sunflower individuals with developmental disabilities and delays, they will add to shelves at the food bank.“Since this fun event is scheduled for right before Thanksgiving, we want to help those in need to have access to a few ingredients for a holiday meal,” said Cody Harris, Sunflower director of planned giving and community support. “This is one way Sunflower can give back to the community that gives so generously to the people we serve.“The Turkey Trot has been popular for the last four years and we hope for a good turnout this time around too. The money we raise and food we collect can make a real difference in people’s lives.”Participants can walk, run or trot to help Sunflower provide adaptive equipment, medical and dental care, and other services.“Another thing I love about the Turkey Trot is that Sunflower’s Aktion Club members volunteer to serve as street blockers for the runners and walkers,” Harris said. “It is great to see them high-five participants while cheering them on.”Sponsorship opportunities are available to anyone who wants to support the charitable causes.Event details The early-bird-registration deadline is Oct. 31; the fee for the 5K race is $30 and Fun Run Race is $25. Both are $5 more after the deadline. Early registrants will receive T-shirts; after Oct. 31, shirts are available while supplies last.Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The 5K starts at 10:30 a.m. and the Fun Run one-mile race a few minutes later. It all begins and ends at Brit Spaugh Park.Those who donate two non-perishable items for the food bank will be entered into a drawing for a Garmin watch.Age divisions for the 5K are: up to 14; 15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-54; and 55 and older. Medals go to the top three finishers in each division.The overall male and female winners receive a turkey. Fun run participants earn ribbons.“We encourage local and area residents to mark this on their calendars,” Harris commented. “Sunflower always looks forward to promoting this healthy activity that brings our community together. It’s a good reason to get out and get moving for worthy causes at the beginning of the holiday season.” To register, visit Sunflower’s website, www.sunflowerdiv.com. For more information, contact Harris by calling 620-792-1321.Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 59th year.

Sunflower Diversified sponsors Turkey Trot; food bank also benefits

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 67. West northwest wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 41. Southwest wind around 6 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 72. Light and variable wind becoming east northeast 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43. East northeast wind around 6 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70.

Thursday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Low around 52. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Friday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm, then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 63. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am, then a slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 62.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 67. West northwest wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 41. Southwest wind around 6 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 72. Light and variable wind becoming east northeast 5 to 7 mph in the morning.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43. East northeast wind around 6 mph.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70.Thursday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Low around 52. Chance of precipitation is 80%.Friday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm, then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 63. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Friday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am, then a slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 62.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Great Bend High School (GBHS) Kayettes are once again combining Halloween fun with community service through their annual Trick-or-Treat for HOPE&nbsp;event.

On Monday, Oct. 27, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Kayette members will go door-to-door throughout Great Bend collecting donations for HOPE Worldwide, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing hope and practical assistance to communities in need around the globe.

The event is a GBHS tradition that allows students to give back while connecting with their community. Residents are encouraged to welcome the Kayettes and contribute to this worthy cause.

GBHS Kayettes is sponosored&nbsp;by Holly Johnson, teacher at GBHS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about HOPE Worldwide, visit&nbsp;www.hopeww.org.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760983269721.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend High School (GBHS) Kayettes are once again combining Halloween fun with community service through their annual Trick-or-Treat for HOPE&nbsp;event.On Monday, Oct. 27, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Kayette members will go door-to-door throughout Great Bend collecting donations for HOPE Worldwide, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing hope and practical assistance to communities in need around the globe.The event is a GBHS tradition that allows students to give back while connecting with their community. Residents are encouraged to welcome the Kayettes and contribute to this worthy cause.GBHS Kayettes is sponosored&nbsp;by Holly Johnson, teacher at GBHS.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about HOPE Worldwide, visit&nbsp;www.hopeww.org.&nbsp;&nbsp;

GBHS Kayettes to trick-or-treat for HOPE Worldwide on Oct. 27

A pair of traffic stops by officers from the Great Bend Police Department resulted in a trio of drug-related arrests Friday and Sunday.

On Oct. 17, at approximately 10:11 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a black Nissan, driven by Sean Flagg, 58, near the 900 block of Hickory Street in Great Bend. During the traffic stop, the Barton County Sheriff's Office K-9 "REM" was deployed. Following a K-9 indication and search of the vehicle, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle. Flagg was arrested and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended and other traffic offenses. Flagg was booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of bond.

On Oct. 19, at approximately 12:55 a.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a red 2007 Toyota Camry occupied by two individuals near the intersection of Broadway Ave. and Taft Street in Great Bend. Barton County Communications confirmed that the driver, Jamie Moore, 33, had two outstanding warrants for her arrest, and confirmed that she had a suspended driver's license. 

While speaking with Moore, officers could smell a strong odor of marijuana from her vehicle. The passenger, Wyatt Gabel, 26, was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. During a search of the vehicle, marijuana, methamphetamines, and further drug paraphernalia were located and recovered. Moore was arrested for the outstanding warrants, Possession of Marijuana and Driving While Suspended. Gabel was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamines and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Both parties were booked into the Barton County Jail.&nbsp;

Anyone with information on these cases or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, the Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

A pair of traffic stops by officers from the Great Bend Police Department resulted in a trio of drug-related arrests Friday and Sunday.On Oct. 17, at approximately 10:11 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a black Nissan, driven by Sean Flagg, 58, near the 900 block of Hickory Street in Great Bend. During the traffic stop, the Barton County Sheriff's Office K-9 "REM" was deployed. Following a K-9 indication and search of the vehicle, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle. Flagg was arrested and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended and other traffic offenses. Flagg was booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of bond.On Oct. 19, at approximately 12:55 a.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a red 2007 Toyota Camry occupied by two individuals near the intersection of Broadway Ave. and Taft Street in Great Bend. Barton County Communications confirmed that the driver, Jamie Moore, 33, had two outstanding warrants for her arrest, and confirmed that she had a suspended driver's license. While speaking with Moore, officers could smell a strong odor of marijuana from her vehicle. The passenger, Wyatt Gabel, 26, was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. During a search of the vehicle, marijuana, methamphetamines, and further drug paraphernalia were located and recovered. Moore was arrested for the outstanding warrants, Possession of Marijuana and Driving While Suspended. Gabel was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamines and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Both parties were booked into the Barton County Jail.&nbsp;Anyone with information on these cases or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, the Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Great Bend Police make three narcotics-related arrests after traffic stops

The Barton County Commission last Tuesday unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-17, granting a conditional land use permit for a new 250-foot guyed communications tower to be constructed approximately three miles northwest of Great Bend, slightly southeast of Heizer.

The request, submitted by Nex-Tech Wireless, will allow the construction of a cell tower on a small portion of a tract owned by Farris Haying LLC, located near the intersection of NW 50th Avenue and NW 30th Road. The area associated with the tower, including its access and anchors, will cover about 0.25 acres.

“This is really a good location,” Environmental Manager Judy Goreham said. There are no homes nearby, and it boosts Nex-Tech’s coverage in the area, which includes the Great Bend Expo Complex and Great Bend Airport.

The site is currently zoned Industrial District, where communications towers are permitted as a conditional use. Following a public hearing on Sept. 18 and no opposition from area landowners, the Barton County Planning Commission recommended approval.

The only condition for the final approval, requiring Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorization, was met prior to the commission’s vote by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), had already been obtained.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760891133107.jpeg" alt="Barton County Environmental Manager Judy Goreham addresses the County Commission Tuesday morning on the planned new cell phone tower near Heizer." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Environmental Manager Judy Goreham addresses the County Commission Tuesday morning on the planned new cell phone tower near Heizer.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Commission last Tuesday unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-17, granting a conditional land use permit for a new 250-foot guyed communications tower to be constructed approximately three miles northwest of Great Bend, slightly southeast of Heizer.The request, submitted by Nex-Tech Wireless, will allow the construction of a cell tower on a small portion of a tract owned by Farris Haying LLC, located near the intersection of NW 50th Avenue and NW 30th Road. The area associated with the tower, including its access and anchors, will cover about 0.25 acres.“This is really a good location,” Environmental Manager Judy Goreham said. There are no homes nearby, and it boosts Nex-Tech’s coverage in the area, which includes the Great Bend Expo Complex and Great Bend Airport.The site is currently zoned Industrial District, where communications towers are permitted as a conditional use. Following a public hearing on Sept. 18 and no opposition from area landowners, the Barton County Planning Commission recommended approval.The only condition for the final approval, requiring Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorization, was met prior to the commission’s vote by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), had already been obtained.

Barton Commission approves conditional permit for communications tower

Did you know that spiders are likely to be gone by Halloween? According to Jeff Whitworth a K-State Extension Entomologist. Four spider species common to Kansas are likely to be in hiding within the next few weeks.

Two species commonly found in the home that are of most concern to humans because of their venom – the brown recluse and black widow – are ready to go into winter hibernation. Those two species are rarely seen from mid-October to mid-March. The brown recluse is identified by a signature dark line that resembles a violin on its back, with the neck of the violin pointing to the rear of the spider. The bite of a brown recluse releases a hemotoxin that affects a person’s blood cells. A bite from a brown recluse may require medical attention.

The brown recluse is nocturnal, thus they are most active at night when they crawl around searching for food. As daylight returns, they crawl into any dark place close by, which is often in a shoe or clothing, if left on the floor. That is the reason that most bites occur; the spider is threatened when you put the item on. The adult female black widow is more elegant looking, typically a very shiny black with a reddish, hourglass shaped mark on their abdomen. The bite of a black widow releases a neurotoxin that affects the nervous systems of humans and animals.

Black widows are web builders, thus they are usually encountered in some out-of-the-way corner of a garage, shed, basement or similar place. They usually are not out wondering like a brown recluse.

Two less-venomous spiders more common in farm fields or open areas include the orb spider and the garden spider.

The orb spider is typically a big, brown, round spider that weaves intricate webs.

You will often see webbing, but not the spider. The webbing catches insects, and then the spider comes out in the evening to feed on what they’ve caught and repair the web, if needed.

Another common field spider, the garden spider, also is very large, and typically dark green or black and yellow with long legs. Farmers often run into garden spiders when walking between fields because they’ll use corn or sorghum or large weeds to build their webs, and by this time of year, most spiders are at their largest and thus have constructed large webs for catching prey.

If they feel threatened in their web, they will vibrate the web, but if that doesn’t work, they usually drop to the ground and hide.

But like the brown recluse and black widow, orb spiders and garden spiders are likely to be out of sight by the time the scariest holiday of the year rolls around.

We are just about to run out of being scared by spiders, and just before Halloween, because the adult field spiders are going to lay their eggs and then go away. The brown recluse and black widow are going into hibernation and won’t be back until March or April.

Whitworth said that even though the brown recluse and black widow are better known to be dangerous, “all spiders are venomous.”

“Most spider bites don’t affect humans too much, but you just never know,” he said. “I always caution people not to play with spiders.”

Information provided by Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Did you know that spiders are likely to be gone by Halloween? According to Jeff Whitworth a K-State Extension Entomologist. Four spider species common to Kansas are likely to be in hiding within the next few weeks.Two species commonly found in the home that are of most concern to humans because of their venom – the brown recluse and black widow – are ready to go into winter hibernation. Those two species are rarely seen from mid-October to mid-March. The brown recluse is identified by a signature dark line that resembles a violin on its back, with the neck of the violin pointing to the rear of the spider. The bite of a brown recluse releases a hemotoxin that affects a person’s blood cells. A bite from a brown recluse may require medical attention.The brown recluse is nocturnal, thus they are most active at night when they crawl around searching for food. As daylight returns, they crawl into any dark place close by, which is often in a shoe or clothing, if left on the floor. That is the reason that most bites occur; the spider is threatened when you put the item on. The adult female black widow is more elegant looking, typically a very shiny black with a reddish, hourglass shaped mark on their abdomen. The bite of a black widow releases a neurotoxin that affects the nervous systems of humans and animals.Black widows are web builders, thus they are usually encountered in some out-of-the-way corner of a garage, shed, basement or similar place. They usually are not out wondering like a brown recluse.Two less-venomous spiders more common in farm fields or open areas include the orb spider and the garden spider.The orb spider is typically a big, brown, round spider that weaves intricate webs.You will often see webbing, but not the spider. The webbing catches insects, and then the spider comes out in the evening to feed on what they’ve caught and repair the web, if needed.Another common field spider, the garden spider, also is very large, and typically dark green or black and yellow with long legs. Farmers often run into garden spiders when walking between fields because they’ll use corn or sorghum or large weeds to build their webs, and by this time of year, most spiders are at their largest and thus have constructed large webs for catching prey.If they feel threatened in their web, they will vibrate the web, but if that doesn’t work, they usually drop to the ground and hide.But like the brown recluse and black widow, orb spiders and garden spiders are likely to be out of sight by the time the scariest holiday of the year rolls around.We are just about to run out of being scared by spiders, and just before Halloween, because the adult field spiders are going to lay their eggs and then go away. The brown recluse and black widow are going into hibernation and won’t be back until March or April.Whitworth said that even though the brown recluse and black widow are better known to be dangerous, “all spiders are venomous.”“Most spider bites don’t affect humans too much, but you just never know,” he said. “I always caution people not to play with spiders.”Information provided by Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.

CAMPBELL: Common spiders in Kansas likely to go into hiding soon

Booked Moore, Jamie L. on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2024CR0308 for Probation Violation; bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety and Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20240L224 for Contempt of Court; Indirect, bond set at $665.85 cash only.

Booked in Gabel, Wyatt J. on a Barton County District Court case *25-L742 for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Chism, Travis on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023CR0283 for serve sentence. Released on time served.

Booked in Bauer, Ethan J. on a Barton County District Court case #25-1052 for Aggravated Burglary. Bond set at $75,000.00 Cash Surety.

Released Hernandez, Jennifer A. on a Saline County KS sheriff Office for warrant # SA2024TR0836. By posting a $158.00 cash bond.

Booked Pogue, Kate M. on Barton County District Court case #25-L049 for Distibution of a stimulant, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Fentanyl, Traffic Signal Legend. Bond set at $100,000 cash or Surety.

Booked Masamba, Gift on Barton County District Court case # 25-1050 for Driving Under The Influence, Fail to Stop, Failure to Maintain Lane and Parked in Roadway with a $1000.00 cash or surety bond.

Booked Pogue, Jimmy W. on Barton County District Court Case #25-1049 for Distibution of a stimulant, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Fentanyl. Bond set at $100,000 Cash or Surety.

Released Masamba, Gift on Barton County District Court case # 25-1050 for Driving Under The Influence, Fail to Stop, Failure to Maintain Lane and Parked in Roadway with a $1000.00 Surety posted by Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Booked in Sinclair, Chad E on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1733 for Driving under the influence and illegal registration, bond set at $1,000.00 cash or surety.

Released Sinclair, Chad E on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1733 for Driving under the influence and illegal registration, surety of $1,000.00 posted by ACE Bail Bonds.

Released Clements, Joey W. on a Barton County District Court warrant # 8T2025CR0210 on Contempt of Court. Released by order of the court.

Released Carey, Xavier A. on Barton County District Court warrants #8T2025CR0320 for Violation of Bond Conditions #BT2025CR0322 for Violation of Bond Conditions; and #8T2025CR0357 for Stalking with Sureties $5,000.00, $10,000 and $20,000 posted by Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Booked in Herren, Arther on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023TR0157 for serve sentence. Bond is a No Bond.

Booked in Chism, Travis on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023CR0283 for serve sentence. Bond is a No Bond.

Booked Flagg, Sean Dewitt on Barton County District Court Case #25-1740 for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, No Turn Signal, and Illegal Tint. Bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758251911101.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>10/19</h2>Booked Moore, Jamie L. on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2024CR0308 for Probation Violation; bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety and Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #20240L224 for Contempt of Court; Indirect, bond set at $665.85 cash only.Booked in Gabel, Wyatt J. on a Barton County District Court case *25-L742 for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.Released Chism, Travis on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023CR0283 for serve sentence. Released on time served.<h2>10/18</h2>Booked in Bauer, Ethan J. on a Barton County District Court case #25-1052 for Aggravated Burglary. Bond set at $75,000.00 Cash Surety.Released Hernandez, Jennifer A. on a Saline County KS sheriff Office for warrant # SA2024TR0836. By posting a $158.00 cash bond.<h2>10/17</h2>Booked Pogue, Kate M. on Barton County District Court case #25-L049 for Distibution of a stimulant, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Fentanyl, Traffic Signal Legend. Bond set at $100,000 cash or Surety.Booked Masamba, Gift on Barton County District Court case # 25-1050 for Driving Under The Influence, Fail to Stop, Failure to Maintain Lane and Parked in Roadway with a $1000.00 cash or surety bond.Booked Pogue, Jimmy W. on Barton County District Court Case #25-1049 for Distibution of a stimulant, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Fentanyl. Bond set at $100,000 Cash or Surety.Released Masamba, Gift on Barton County District Court case # 25-1050 for Driving Under The Influence, Fail to Stop, Failure to Maintain Lane and Parked in Roadway with a $1000.00 Surety posted by Around the Clock Bail Bonds.Booked in Sinclair, Chad E on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1733 for Driving under the influence and illegal registration, bond set at $1,000.00 cash or surety.Released Sinclair, Chad E on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1733 for Driving under the influence and illegal registration, surety of $1,000.00 posted by ACE Bail Bonds.Released Clements, Joey W. on a Barton County District Court warrant # 8T2025CR0210 on Contempt of Court. Released by order of the court.Released Carey, Xavier A. on Barton County District Court warrants #8T2025CR0320 for Violation of Bond Conditions #BT2025CR0322 for Violation of Bond Conditions; and #8T2025CR0357 for Stalking with Sureties $5,000.00, $10,000 and $20,000 posted by Around the Clock Bail Bonds.Booked in Herren, Arther on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023TR0157 for serve sentence. Bond is a No Bond.Booked in Chism, Travis on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2023CR0283 for serve sentence. Bond is a No Bond.Booked Flagg, Sean Dewitt on Barton County District Court Case #25-1740 for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances, Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, No Turn Signal, and Illegal Tint. Bond set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (10/17-10/19)

A fun, educational trip is planned for spring break
2026.&nbsp;The dates for the trip are March 16-20.&nbsp;The trip is led by
Signe Cook, third-grade teacher in Great Bend, assisted by Mark Cook, eighth-grade
teacher at Great Bend Middle School, and Nicole Hartman, teacher at Ellinwood
High School.&nbsp;The trip is open to anyone, eighth grade and older, including
adults.&nbsp;This is not a school trip, it is an independent trip run through
the travel company EF (Education First).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Signe Cook went to Washington D.C. as an eighth grader in
Wichita, and as a teacher wants to bring the joy&nbsp;of traveling to
other&nbsp;students.&nbsp;While teaching in Junction City, she took two large
groups of eighth-grade students to Washington D.C.&nbsp; Signe then moved to
Fowler and took a large group of high school students to Washington D.C. In
2015, the Cooks moved to Ellinwood and began a tradition of taking trips every
other year. There have been two trips to New York/Boston, a trip to Las
Angeles/San Francisco and a trip to Washington D.C.&nbsp;The last trip to
Washington D.C. was a mixture of Ellinwood and Great Bend students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The trip is offered to anyone in the area who is in the eighth
grade and older.&nbsp;They do not have to be in a certain class or activity to
go on the trip. It gives students who are not involved in specific classes or
clubs to go on a trip. Any student or adult is welcome to go.

The goal of the trip is to expose students to travel outside
of Kansas, and show them important American landmarks they may otherwise never
have the opportunity to see.&nbsp;

“The students really look forward to seeing the
American&nbsp;landmarks they have learned about in school and seen on the news,”
Signe said.&nbsp;“With today's economy, it is more reasonable for a family to
send their student rather than pay for the whole family.&nbsp;They are giving
their student the chance to make connections to what they have learned in the
classroom with real-life experiences. This may be the only chance they get to
see the&nbsp;Washington&nbsp;D.C. area, or it will spark an interest to travel
more and open their mind to new experiences.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

The trips are generally planned every other year to give
students time to raise money for the trip.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 2026&nbsp;trip will be especially important as it is the
250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The sights
in Washington D.C. include the White House, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial,
Jefferson Memorial, The Smithsonian Museums, Lincoln Memorial, Korean Memorial,
Vietnam Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Marine Core War Memorial, US
Capital, Library of Congress, US Supreme Court, the National Archives 9/11
Pentagon Memorial, and the Holocaust Museum.&nbsp; The trip will end with a
visit to the International Spy Museum.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be two day excursions. The first is to Mount
Vernon, George Washington's estate, tomb, and slave memorial.&nbsp;The second
excursion is to the Gettysburg battlefield, museum and cyclorama
experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When signing up for the trip, everything is included in the
cost of the trip, including all travel, hotel accommodations, food, admission,
and security at the hotel.&nbsp;The only other money needed on the trip is for
souvenirs.

There have been fundraisers such as baseball and basketball
concessions in Ellinwood and a meal at the Ellinwood After Harvest
Festival.&nbsp;The group has more basketball concessions planned and is open to
any other fundraisers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you would like to join the 2026 Washington DC trip, go
to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.efexploreamerica.com/2779680dt" target="_blank">www.efexploreamerica.com/2779680dt</a>.&nbsp;
You can see the itinerary and sign up for the trip there.&nbsp; You can also
call or text Signe Cook at 316-633-0328 with questions.&nbsp; There will also
be an informational meeting on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ellinwood High
School Commons.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760841284949.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A fun, educational trip is planned for spring break
2026.&nbsp;The dates for the trip are March 16-20.&nbsp;The trip is led by
Signe Cook, third-grade teacher in Great Bend, assisted by Mark Cook, eighth-grade
teacher at Great Bend Middle School, and Nicole Hartman, teacher at Ellinwood
High School.&nbsp;The trip is open to anyone, eighth grade and older, including
adults.&nbsp;This is not a school trip, it is an independent trip run through
the travel company EF (Education First).&nbsp;&nbsp;Signe Cook went to Washington D.C. as an eighth grader in
Wichita, and as a teacher wants to bring the joy&nbsp;of traveling to
other&nbsp;students.&nbsp;While teaching in Junction City, she took two large
groups of eighth-grade students to Washington D.C.&nbsp; Signe then moved to
Fowler and took a large group of high school students to Washington D.C. In
2015, the Cooks moved to Ellinwood and began a tradition of taking trips every
other year. There have been two trips to New York/Boston, a trip to Las
Angeles/San Francisco and a trip to Washington D.C.&nbsp;The last trip to
Washington D.C. was a mixture of Ellinwood and Great Bend students.&nbsp;&nbsp;The trip is offered to anyone in the area who is in the eighth
grade and older.&nbsp;They do not have to be in a certain class or activity to
go on the trip. It gives students who are not involved in specific classes or
clubs to go on a trip. Any student or adult is welcome to go.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760841305118.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The goal of the trip is to expose students to travel outside
of Kansas, and show them important American landmarks they may otherwise never
have the opportunity to see.&nbsp;“The students really look forward to seeing the
American&nbsp;landmarks they have learned about in school and seen on the news,”
Signe said.&nbsp;“With today's economy, it is more reasonable for a family to
send their student rather than pay for the whole family.&nbsp;They are giving
their student the chance to make connections to what they have learned in the
classroom with real-life experiences. This may be the only chance they get to
see the&nbsp;Washington&nbsp;D.C. area, or it will spark an interest to travel
more and open their mind to new experiences.”&nbsp; &nbsp;The trips are generally planned every other year to give
students time to raise money for the trip.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760841323192.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The 2026&nbsp;trip will be especially important as it is the
250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The sights
in Washington D.C. include the White House, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial,
Jefferson Memorial, The Smithsonian Museums, Lincoln Memorial, Korean Memorial,
Vietnam Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Marine Core War Memorial, US
Capital, Library of Congress, US Supreme Court, the National Archives 9/11
Pentagon Memorial, and the Holocaust Museum.&nbsp; The trip will end with a
visit to the International Spy Museum.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;There will be two day excursions. The first is to Mount
Vernon, George Washington's estate, tomb, and slave memorial.&nbsp;The second
excursion is to the Gettysburg battlefield, museum and cyclorama
experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;When signing up for the trip, everything is included in the
cost of the trip, including all travel, hotel accommodations, food, admission,
and security at the hotel.&nbsp;The only other money needed on the trip is for
souvenirs.There have been fundraisers such as baseball and basketball
concessions in Ellinwood and a meal at the Ellinwood After Harvest
Festival.&nbsp;The group has more basketball concessions planned and is open to
any other fundraisers.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you would like to join the 2026 Washington DC trip, go
to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.efexploreamerica.com/2779680dt" target="_blank">www.efexploreamerica.com/2779680dt</a>.&nbsp;
You can see the itinerary and sign up for the trip there.&nbsp; You can also
call or text Signe Cook at 316-633-0328 with questions.&nbsp; There will also
be an informational meeting on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ellinwood High
School Commons.&nbsp;

Area teachers planning DC, Gettysburg trip for Spring Break 2026  

Monday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy, with a south southwest wind 14 to 22 mph becoming north northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.

Monday Night Clear, with a low around 42. North northwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 67.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 72.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.

Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.

Thursday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.

Friday A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 64.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 44.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy, with a south southwest wind 14 to 22 mph becoming north northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.Monday Night Clear, with a low around 42. North northwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 67.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 72.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.Thursday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.Friday A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 64.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 44.

Monday's weather

As
of Tuesday, October 14th, the drought monitor report indicates little change
from last week for us. There is an increase in abnormally dry and moderate
drought conditions for the eastern quarter of the state and in the
northeast.&nbsp; Our area is still totally out
of dry conditions.&nbsp; The six-to ten-day
outlook (October 20 to 24) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and near normal for precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (October 22
to 28) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and
33 to 40% chance of leaning below normal for precipitation.&nbsp; We could use precipitation for establishing
wheat.&nbsp; As long as temperatures aren’t
strongly above normal and with soil moisture, it’s good for late planted wheat
and establishing tillers.&nbsp; This should
also allow for rapid progress on fall harvest.

Last
week we discussed the challenges of pest control using primarily chemical
control: pests developing resistance to the chemistry; potential negative
health effects for people and livestock; the deleterious effects of these
chemicals in the environment; the loss of beneficial species and offsite
damage.&nbsp; These concerns led to the
development and continued refinement of IPM (Integrated Pest Management), which
looks at the entire range of control practices and seeks the least environmentally
damaging control methods.&nbsp; IPM does use
pesticides but as part of a range of management practices.&nbsp; Today, let’s start examining these practices.

First,
a few keystone tenets of successful IPM in managing weeds, disease, and insects:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; You
have several options: eradication, control, suppression, and exclusion.&nbsp; What is selected is a function of where you
and dealing with the pest; the life cycle of the pest; what is practical; what
the potential damage is; and what the management options are.&nbsp; Exclusion, keeping the pest out of the area,
is more practical in a greenhouse setting or where say the disease isn’t
present.&nbsp; Eradication is practical in a
small setting outside or again something like a greenhouse.&nbsp; Suppression is often the most practical in a
field setting, especially with something like insects and certain
diseases.&nbsp; The key to deciding leads to
the next bullet point.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; You
must be able to accurately identify the pest.&nbsp;
That tells you the life cycle, the type of damage caused by the pest,
and again, what control measures are feasible and/or necessary.&nbsp; When is potentially a problem?&nbsp; When is the most effective time to control it
and with what measures?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682025352095.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>As
of Tuesday, October 14th, the drought monitor report indicates little change
from last week for us. There is an increase in abnormally dry and moderate
drought conditions for the eastern quarter of the state and in the
northeast.&nbsp; Our area is still totally out
of dry conditions.&nbsp; The six-to ten-day
outlook (October 20 to 24) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and near normal for precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (October 22
to 28) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and
33 to 40% chance of leaning below normal for precipitation.&nbsp; We could use precipitation for establishing
wheat.&nbsp; As long as temperatures aren’t
strongly above normal and with soil moisture, it’s good for late planted wheat
and establishing tillers.&nbsp; This should
also allow for rapid progress on fall harvest.Last
week we discussed the challenges of pest control using primarily chemical
control: pests developing resistance to the chemistry; potential negative
health effects for people and livestock; the deleterious effects of these
chemicals in the environment; the loss of beneficial species and offsite
damage.&nbsp; These concerns led to the
development and continued refinement of IPM (Integrated Pest Management), which
looks at the entire range of control practices and seeks the least environmentally
damaging control methods.&nbsp; IPM does use
pesticides but as part of a range of management practices.&nbsp; Today, let’s start examining these practices.First,
a few keystone tenets of successful IPM in managing weeds, disease, and insects:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; You
have several options: eradication, control, suppression, and exclusion.&nbsp; What is selected is a function of where you
and dealing with the pest; the life cycle of the pest; what is practical; what
the potential damage is; and what the management options are.&nbsp; Exclusion, keeping the pest out of the area,
is more practical in a greenhouse setting or where say the disease isn’t
present.&nbsp; Eradication is practical in a
small setting outside or again something like a greenhouse.&nbsp; Suppression is often the most practical in a
field setting, especially with something like insects and certain
diseases.&nbsp; The key to deciding leads to
the next bullet point.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; You
must be able to accurately identify the pest.&nbsp;
That tells you the life cycle, the type of damage caused by the pest,
and again, what control measures are feasible and/or necessary.&nbsp; When is potentially a problem?&nbsp; When is the most effective time to control it
and with what measures?

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - IPM and Pest Control - II

Great Bend Recreation Commission Monthly Board Meeting Date: 10/13/25 Old Business Items:

ENRICHMENT REPORTS- Garet Fitzpatrick, Enrichment /Activity Center Director

Our fall afterschool programs in the school sites started October 6 and come to an end the second week of December.

This fall we will be offering the following Kids Day Out programs when school has early dismissal and when school is out for the day: Birds &amp; Bugs with KWEC: Monday, October 6th, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (canceled, 5 kids), Babysitting 101: Monday, October 6th, from 1:00 – 5:00 pm (canceled 1 kid), Strataca at the Kansas Underground Salt Mine Kids Day Out: Friday, October 17th, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Half Day of Spooky Crafts: Thursday, October 23rd, from 1:00 – 5:00 pm, and Heartland Farm &amp; Bowling Kids Day Out: Friday, October 24th, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.

We hosted a couple of Morning at My BackYard Playground events on September 3rd and 17th from 9:30 – 11:00 am. We had several activities set up and some special handouts while supplies lasted. This event was open for children under 5 and accompanied by an adult.

One of the new programs that was offered this fall was Critter Morning at My BackYard Playground. Parents and their children were invited to stop by the My BackYard playground on Friday, September 26th, and meet some of the little critters from the Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo. This free animal presentation started at 10:00 am and lasted approximately 30 minutes. Families were encouraged to come early or stay late and enjoy the playground with other parents and children. We had 15 total participants.

We helped sponsor a Kansas Hunter Education Class on Saturday, September 20th, from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Great Bend Police Training Facility. Tim Boxberger was the head instructor along with 6 other certified instructors. We had a full class of 21&nbsp;participants ages 11 and older registered for this free class. We had 15 students show up for the class and they all passed the class. The local Ducks Unlimited Chapter also helped sponsor the class providing pizza for lunch.

ENRICHMENT REPORTS: Enrichment, Aquatic, Marketing Director-Megan Hammeke:

9/2-9/30 – SN Bowling. Bowling met 5 times and had 175 participate in the weekly bowling program.

There was no other September activities planned as we began preparing for our Fall programming.

10/21 – Coffee &amp; Craft – Mini Pumpkin Patch

10/31 – Halloween Party at the Senior Center

9/8-10/3 – Fit for Life exercise Class met 10 times and had 318 participants.

9/8-10/2 – Midday Stretch met 13 times and had 191 participants.

9/8-10/1 – Yoga met 7 times and had 52 participants.

9/8-10/1 – Cardio Blast met 7 times and had 45 participants.

9/8-10/2 – Gentle Yoga met 7 times and had 52 participants in the 3pm class and met 6 times and had 53 participants in the 6:30 pm class.

9/8-10/1 – Chair Yoga met 7 times and had 117 participants.

9/1-10/1 – AM HIIT Suspension met 7 times and had 49 participants.

9/9-10/2 – Sunrise Yoga met 7 times and had 41 participants.

9/9-10/2 – Tai Chi Intermediate met 7 times and had 23 participants.

9/11-10/2 – Tai Chi Beginners met 3 times and had 13 participants.

9/9-10/2 – AM Rhythm Ride met 7 times and had 52 participants.

9/8-10/1 - Spin Strength Stretch met 7 times and had 38 participants.

9/8-10/1 – PM Rhythm Ride met 8 times and had 38 participants.

The next session of Fitness classes began the week of October 7th. Below is a list of offered Fitness classes:

Sunrise Yoga, Yoga, Chair Yoga &amp; Gentle Yoga

Midday Stretch &amp; Strength and Spin Strength Stretch

SPORTS REPORT&nbsp;- Shane Sandberg- Sports Director:

Instructional Outdoor Soccer finished on September 25th. We had 32 4- and 5- year-olds participate this year compared to 18 last year. We did drills for 3 weeks and then played scrimmage games during the final week. The scrimmages are very chaotic but also fun to watch with that age group. Most of those kids are returning for Instructional Indoor Soccer that starts on October 21st. We have well over 50 kids enrolled in that program.

1st and 2nd grade volleyball also ran on Tuesdays and Thursdays in September and we had 25 participants compared to 23 last year. I had a new instructor running the lessons this year and 2 new aides and received several compliments on the program.

K-6th Flag Football started playing games at the beginning of September and the 4th-6th grade and 2nd-3rd grade leagues have already played their championship games. Congratulations to Jason Perry’s Eagles and Dan Quillen’s Barbarians on winning those leagues. The K-1st grade league will play their postseason games on Monday October 13th.

K-8th Outdoor Soccer has also completed their regular season games. The postseason starts Thursday October 16th and championship games will be played Saturday the 18th.

Fall adult volleyball leagues started back up the first week of September and there are 26 teams competing. At this point in the season, it looks like we could have new champions in 3 of the 6 leagues! It will be exciting to see how it plays out over the final few weeks.

Men’s 3 on 3 basketball started their fall league on Sunday September 6th. The league is full with 8 teams for the 4th straight session. Postseason games will be played and a champion will be crowned on Sunday October 25th.

Attendance Report - Joe Henry, Business Director:

In the month of September, there were 3,816 people enrolled in programs sponsored by the Recreation Commission. Total participation for the month was 17,461 and of that total, 8,025 were spectators. For the month, a total of 1,582 hours of supervised activities were offered.

Last year there were 3,991 people enrolled in programs with total participation of 14,338 of which 5,677 were spectators.

1. 2024-2025 Audit Presentation: Action Item: Adams Brown Strategic Allies and CPA’s will be presenting the 2024-2025 audit for approval.

2. Commission Member Appointment: Information Item: Enclosed is the Recreation Commission Member’s Appointment chart. This year a city position is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025. Randy Goering currently holds this position. He is eligible to be re-appointed to the Commission Member at Large position for a second term.

3. Auditorium Door Replacement: Action Item: Included for your approval will be quotes from Jim Lo Glass and Quality Glass to replace the North and South main doors of the City Auditorium. These doors have a lot of traffic coming in and out throughout each year. The doors are not shutting properly and also letting weather in at times. Unfortunately, they are not making parts for the age of these doors. Ultimately, this is part getting the City Auditorium up to date and secure. We will discuss options on Monday. The board accepted the low bid from Jim Lo Glass.

Great Bend Recreation Commission Monthly Board Meeting Date: 10/13/25 Old Business Items:ReportsENRICHMENT REPORTS- Garet Fitzpatrick, Enrichment /Activity Center DirectorOur fall afterschool programs in the school sites started October 6 and come to an end the second week of December.This fall we will be offering the following Kids Day Out programs when school has early dismissal and when school is out for the day: Birds &amp; Bugs with KWEC: Monday, October 6th, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (canceled, 5 kids), Babysitting 101: Monday, October 6th, from 1:00 – 5:00 pm (canceled 1 kid), Strataca at the Kansas Underground Salt Mine Kids Day Out: Friday, October 17th, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Half Day of Spooky Crafts: Thursday, October 23rd, from 1:00 – 5:00 pm, and Heartland Farm &amp; Bowling Kids Day Out: Friday, October 24th, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.We hosted a couple of Morning at My BackYard Playground events on September 3rd and 17th from 9:30 – 11:00 am. We had several activities set up and some special handouts while supplies lasted. This event was open for children under 5 and accompanied by an adult.One of the new programs that was offered this fall was Critter Morning at My BackYard Playground. Parents and their children were invited to stop by the My BackYard playground on Friday, September 26th, and meet some of the little critters from the Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo. This free animal presentation started at 10:00 am and lasted approximately 30 minutes. Families were encouraged to come early or stay late and enjoy the playground with other parents and children. We had 15 total participants.We helped sponsor a Kansas Hunter Education Class on Saturday, September 20th, from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Great Bend Police Training Facility. Tim Boxberger was the head instructor along with 6 other certified instructors. We had a full class of 21&nbsp;participants ages 11 and older registered for this free class. We had 15 students show up for the class and they all passed the class. The local Ducks Unlimited Chapter also helped sponsor the class providing pizza for lunch.ENRICHMENT REPORTS: Enrichment, Aquatic, Marketing Director-Megan Hammeke:September Adaptive Activities:9/2-9/30 – SN Bowling. Bowling met 5 times and had 175 participate in the weekly bowling program.September 50 Plus Activities:There was no other September activities planned as we began preparing for our Fall programming.October Adaptive Activities:10/7-10/28 – SN Bowling10/8 – Stacked Pumpkins10/17 – SN Halloween Dance10/23 – Easy Cooking – Pumpkin10/29 – Pumpkin DecoratingOctober 50 Plus Activities:10/6 – Matinee Club10/15 – 50 Plus Craft10/21 – Coffee &amp; Craft – Mini Pumpkin Patch10/31 – Halloween Party at the Senior CenterSeptember Activities:9/8-10/3 – Fit for Life exercise Class met 10 times and had 318 participants.9/8-10/2 – Midday Stretch met 13 times and had 191 participants.9/8-10/1 – Yoga met 7 times and had 52 participants.9/8-10/1 – Cardio Blast met 7 times and had 45 participants.9/8-10/2 – Gentle Yoga met 7 times and had 52 participants in the 3pm class and met 6 times and had 53 participants in the 6:30 pm class.9/8-10/1 – Chair Yoga met 7 times and had 117 participants.9/1-10/1 – AM HIIT Suspension met 7 times and had 49 participants.9/9-10/2 – Sunrise Yoga met 7 times and had 41 participants.9/9-10/2 – Tai Chi Intermediate met 7 times and had 23 participants.9/11-10/2 – Tai Chi Beginners met 3 times and had 13 participants.9/9-10/2 – AM Rhythm Ride met 7 times and had 52 participants.9/8-10/1 - Spin Strength Stretch met 7 times and had 38 participants.9/8-10/1 – PM Rhythm Ride met 8 times and had 38 participants.October Activities:The next session of Fitness classes began the week of October 7th. Below is a list of offered Fitness classes:Fit for Life &amp; 50 Plus &amp; FitAM HIIT Suspension TrainingSunrise Yoga, Yoga, Chair Yoga &amp; Gentle YogaCardio BlastMidday Stretch &amp; Strength and Spin Strength StretchAM &amp; PM Rhythm RideTai Chi Beginners &amp; IntermediateSPORTS REPORT&nbsp;- Shane Sandberg- Sports Director:Instructional Outdoor Soccer finished on September 25th. We had 32 4- and 5- year-olds participate this year compared to 18 last year. We did drills for 3 weeks and then played scrimmage games during the final week. The scrimmages are very chaotic but also fun to watch with that age group. Most of those kids are returning for Instructional Indoor Soccer that starts on October 21st. We have well over 50 kids enrolled in that program.1st and 2nd grade volleyball also ran on Tuesdays and Thursdays in September and we had 25 participants compared to 23 last year. I had a new instructor running the lessons this year and 2 new aides and received several compliments on the program.K-6th Flag Football started playing games at the beginning of September and the 4th-6th grade and 2nd-3rd grade leagues have already played their championship games. Congratulations to Jason Perry’s Eagles and Dan Quillen’s Barbarians on winning those leagues. The K-1st grade league will play their postseason games on Monday October 13th.K-8th Outdoor Soccer has also completed their regular season games. The postseason starts Thursday October 16th and championship games will be played Saturday the 18th.Fall adult volleyball leagues started back up the first week of September and there are 26 teams competing. At this point in the season, it looks like we could have new champions in 3 of the 6 leagues! It will be exciting to see how it plays out over the final few weeks.Men’s 3 on 3 basketball started their fall league on Sunday September 6th. The league is full with 8 teams for the 4th straight session. Postseason games will be played and a champion will be crowned on Sunday October 25th.Attendance Report - Joe Henry, Business Director:In the month of September, there were 3,816 people enrolled in programs sponsored by the Recreation Commission. Total participation for the month was 17,461 and of that total, 8,025 were spectators. For the month, a total of 1,582 hours of supervised activities were offered.Last year there were 3,991 people enrolled in programs with total participation of 14,338 of which 5,677 were spectators.NEW BUSINESS:1. 2024-2025 Audit Presentation: Action Item: Adams Brown Strategic Allies and CPA’s will be presenting the 2024-2025 audit for approval.2. Commission Member Appointment: Information Item: Enclosed is the Recreation Commission Member’s Appointment chart. This year a city position is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025. Randy Goering currently holds this position. He is eligible to be re-appointed to the Commission Member at Large position for a second term.3. Auditorium Door Replacement: Action Item: Included for your approval will be quotes from Jim Lo Glass and Quality Glass to replace the North and South main doors of the City Auditorium. These doors have a lot of traffic coming in and out throughout each year. The doors are not shutting properly and also letting weather in at times. Unfortunately, they are not making parts for the age of these doors. Ultimately, this is part getting the City Auditorium up to date and secure. We will discuss options on Monday. The board accepted the low bid from Jim Lo Glass.

Minute from Great Bend Rec October board meeting

The Barton County Commission voted Tuesday to approve an $8,500 Façade Improvement Grant for All Weather Roofing and Exterior LLC, located at 2100 10th St. in Great Bend.

The grant will support the company’s $15,601.73 project, which involves the installation of new siding, gutters, wraps, shutters, windows and painting for the building. It serves as the office for the Great Bend branch of the Russell-based company.

“We want to make it shine and pop that corner,” said All Weather’s Jennifer Flick, who presented the proposal along with Tyler Daily. “It’s a great location, being close to downtown, and improvements will also help the overall appearance of the area.”

“It’s a cool, cottage-style building,” Daily said. “It just needed some tender loving care.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760839966173.jpeg" alt="Shown is a photo of the building at 2100 10th St. in Great Bend and an artist’s rendering of the planned improvements utilizing a Façade Improvement Grant from Barton County, approved by the Commission Tuesday morning." />
 <figcaption>Shown is a photo of the building at 2100 10th St. in Great Bend and an artist’s rendering of the planned improvements utilizing a Façade Improvement Grant from Barton County, approved by the Commission Tuesday morning.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Commission voted Tuesday to approve an $8,500 Façade Improvement Grant for All Weather Roofing and Exterior LLC, located at 2100 10th St. in Great Bend.The grant will support the company’s $15,601.73 project, which involves the installation of new siding, gutters, wraps, shutters, windows and painting for the building. It serves as the office for the Great Bend branch of the Russell-based company.“We want to make it shine and pop that corner,” said All Weather’s Jennifer Flick, who presented the proposal along with Tyler Daily. “It’s a great location, being close to downtown, and improvements will also help the overall appearance of the area.”“It’s a cool, cottage-style building,” Daily said. “It just needed some tender loving care.”

Barton Commissioners OK Façade Improvement Grant for Great Bend business

By MIKE COURSON
 Great Bend Post

A new Halloween costume. Christmas gifts for the family. The
options are unlimited for Central Kansas Christian Academy third grader Isabel
Valles after she was named the latest winner in Eagle Media’s Make a Difference
Contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing. OPI presented Valles with
a giant $100 check last week.

“I make a difference by obeying teachers and following
directions,” Valles said.

As a weekly winner, Valles is now eligible to win another
$100 as the October monthly Make a Difference winner. The winner of the monthly
drawing also receives a swag bag full of goodies from other Make a Difference
sponsors, and that student’s teacher also receives $100. That makes CKCA
teacher Mrs. Breitenbach eligible.

“Isabel is an amazing leader,” Breitenbach said. “She is
always doing what she needs to be doing. She’s an example of Jesus every day,
and we just love having her here.”

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760839684289.jpeg" alt="Central Kansas Christian Academy third grader Isabel Valles is the latest Make a Difference winner. Tom from OPI presented Isabel with a giant $100 check last week. Isabel and her teacher, Mrs. Breitenbach, are now eligible for more prizes in the monthly drawing." />
 <figcaption>Central Kansas Christian Academy third grader Isabel Valles is the latest Make a Difference winner. Tom from OPI presented Isabel with a giant $100 check last week. Isabel and her teacher, Mrs. Breitenbach, are now eligible for more prizes in the monthly drawing.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON
 Great Bend PostA new Halloween costume. Christmas gifts for the family. The
options are unlimited for Central Kansas Christian Academy third grader Isabel
Valles after she was named the latest winner in Eagle Media’s Make a Difference
Contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing. OPI presented Valles with
a giant $100 check last week.“I make a difference by obeying teachers and following
directions,” Valles said.As a weekly winner, Valles is now eligible to win another
$100 as the October monthly Make a Difference winner. The winner of the monthly
drawing also receives a swag bag full of goodies from other Make a Difference
sponsors, and that student’s teacher also receives $100. That makes CKCA
teacher Mrs. Breitenbach eligible.“Isabel is an amazing leader,” Breitenbach said. “She is
always doing what she needs to be doing. She’s an example of Jesus every day,
and we just love having her here.”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.

CKCA third grader Isabel Valles earns $100 as latest Make a Difference winner

Kansas State Department of Education

During his annual report to the Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson said preparing Kansas students for their postsecondary pursuits remains of utmost importance for putting students on a path for success after graduating from high school.

“The efforts to increase graduation rates while simultaneously preparing students academically and with hands-on skills will continue to increase students’ chances for postsecondary success and strengthen the state’s workforce,” Watson said.

Watson presented a draft of “Coherence,” the Kansas State Department of Education’s (KSDE) 2024-25 annual report on Tuesday to members of the Kansas State Board of Education during their monthly meeting in Topeka. He said the number of Kansas high school students enrolled in postsecondary courses has continued to grow since 2021, noting that 40,709 students took postsecondary courses during the 2024-25 school year. 

During the same school year, Kansas students earned a total of 366,007 dual credit postsecondary hours, an increase of 33,392 over the previous year. Data for the 2024-25 Advanced Placement (AP) exams are not yet available; however, results from the past three years show a steady and significant increase in the number of exams earning scores of 3, 4, or 5. In 2023-2024, this number increased to 12,240, an increase of nearly 3,000 from the previous year. Based on this upward trend, Kansas fully expects continued growth in AP achievement when the 2025 results are released.

The number of students taking career and technical education (CTE) classes in high school also continues to climb each year.

The Kansas State Board of Education’s strong commitment to improving literacy outcomes continues to drive progress across the state. Thanks to the State Board’s dedicated funding, more than 17,072 educators and administrators have completed or are currently enrolled in LETRS®&nbsp;structured literacy training aligned to the science of reading. This growing participation reflects Kansas’ ongoing effort to ensure every student receives high-quality reading instruction.

Kansas introduced an enhanced state assessment in 2025, and as is standard practice, cut scores were developed accordingly. Kansas educators coming together to set cut scores also afforded an opportunity to address what multiple measures have shown to be a long-standing misalignment between assessment scores and actual student performance. KSDE believes the new cut scores more accurately represent student performance.

The 2024-25 annual report celebrates a major milestone in strengthening Kansas’ educator workforce. Teacher vacancies have dropped by more than 450 statewide, a 21% decrease from spring 2024 to fall 2025. This marks one of the most significant improvements in recent years and reflects ongoing efforts to recruit and retain talented educators across the state. The number of Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (RTAP) cohort members has also significantly increased each year since 2023, further addressing the teacher pipeline issues experienced in Kansas and across the U.S.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksde.gov/Portals/0/Communications/Publications/DRAFT-AR-2024-25-Coherence.pdf?ver=2025-10-14-160623-533">Click here</a>&nbsp;for a draft of the 2024-25 annual report which will be updated as additional 2025 data points become available.

Kansas State Department of EducationDuring his annual report to the Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson said preparing Kansas students for their postsecondary pursuits remains of utmost importance for putting students on a path for success after graduating from high school.“The efforts to increase graduation rates while simultaneously preparing students academically and with hands-on skills will continue to increase students’ chances for postsecondary success and strengthen the state’s workforce,” Watson said.Watson presented a draft of “Coherence,” the Kansas State Department of Education’s (KSDE) 2024-25 annual report on Tuesday to members of the Kansas State Board of Education during their monthly meeting in Topeka. He said the number of Kansas high school students enrolled in postsecondary courses has continued to grow since 2021, noting that 40,709 students took postsecondary courses during the 2024-25 school year. During the same school year, Kansas students earned a total of 366,007 dual credit postsecondary hours, an increase of 33,392 over the previous year. Data for the 2024-25 Advanced Placement (AP) exams are not yet available; however, results from the past three years show a steady and significant increase in the number of exams earning scores of 3, 4, or 5. In 2023-2024, this number increased to 12,240, an increase of nearly 3,000 from the previous year. Based on this upward trend, Kansas fully expects continued growth in AP achievement when the 2025 results are released.The number of students taking career and technical education (CTE) classes in high school also continues to climb each year.The Kansas State Board of Education’s strong commitment to improving literacy outcomes continues to drive progress across the state. Thanks to the State Board’s dedicated funding, more than 17,072 educators and administrators have completed or are currently enrolled in LETRS®&nbsp;structured literacy training aligned to the science of reading. This growing participation reflects Kansas’ ongoing effort to ensure every student receives high-quality reading instruction.Kansas introduced an enhanced state assessment in 2025, and as is standard practice, cut scores were developed accordingly. Kansas educators coming together to set cut scores also afforded an opportunity to address what multiple measures have shown to be a long-standing misalignment between assessment scores and actual student performance. KSDE believes the new cut scores more accurately represent student performance.The 2024-25 annual report celebrates a major milestone in strengthening Kansas’ educator workforce. Teacher vacancies have dropped by more than 450 statewide, a 21% decrease from spring 2024 to fall 2025. This marks one of the most significant improvements in recent years and reflects ongoing efforts to recruit and retain talented educators across the state. The number of Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (RTAP) cohort members has also significantly increased each year since 2023, further addressing the teacher pipeline issues experienced in Kansas and across the U.S.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksde.gov/Portals/0/Communications/Publications/DRAFT-AR-2024-25-Coherence.pdf?ver=2025-10-14-160623-533">Click here</a>&nbsp;for a draft of the 2024-25 annual report which will be updated as additional 2025 data points become available.

Kansas schools see rise in dual credit, AP scores and career education participation

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 69. West northwest wind 6 to 15 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 52. South wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 69. West northwest wind 6 to 15 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 52. South wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Monday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy, with a south southwest wind 14 to 22 mph becoming north northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.Monday Night Clear, with a low around 42. North northwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 67.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 72.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.Thursday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.

Sunday's weather

Fuller Industries Inc., a long-time manufacturer of cleaning products, is introducing new solutions designed to help businesses navigate current commercial cleaning staffing shortages and turnover rates, and meet growing sustainability demands. The company's latest innovations focus on helping commercial cleaning operations do more with less through smarter workload management and environmentally conscious products.

“In today’s landscape of tight budgets and staffing shortages, mastering how to do more with less is essential,” said Joe Mann, Fuller Industries' general manager. “Our goal is to equip our customers with practical tools to streamline workflows, optimize resources and elevate client satisfaction.”

Fuller Industries is leveraging two major growth trends: the overall expansion of the global cleaning products market, projected to reach $302.9 billion in 2023, and the accelerating demand for sustainable products, which is expected to grow from $270.89 billion in 2022 to $430.61 billion by 2030. The company's new offerings are designed to capitalize on both.

“We go to great lengths to ensure that we behave as responsible global citizens,” Mann said. “We have learned that being environmentally aware and business-oriented can exist hand-in-hand.”

One key innovation is the company’s award-winning monopod dosing system. These 100% water-soluble capsules contain concentrated formulas that simplify cleaning and reduce waste. By using fewer and smaller plastic containers, monopods save on shipping costs and allow for more efficient transportation.

The company is also shifting its use of surfactants, the compounds that allow dirt to rise to the surface. Historically, petroleum-based products have been the industry standard, but Fuller is transitioning to natural, more sustainable ingredients.

Fuller’s commitment to sustainability is backed by independent certifications. Many of its products carry the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safer Choice label, which identifies products with safer chemical ingredients for both human health and the environment. The EPA annually audits products with this distinction to ensure they continue to meet strict standards for performance, pH, and packaging.

Additionally, Fuller cleaners have the Green Seal label, a certification from a global nonprofit that has set high standards for health, sustainability, and product performance for over 30 years.

“That Green Seal certification helps buyers and consumers make healthier choices that are better for the environment,” Mann said.

The company's latest breakthrough is Micro-E, a family of micro-engineered natural concentrates. These highly concentrated cleaning solutions are derived entirely from natural ingredients, yet they deliver powerful performance that rivals traditional chemicals.

“Until now, natural cleaning products often suffered from performance loss when concentrated, especially for professional use,” said Dr. Jose Ramirez, chief science advisor for Fuller Industries. “Fuller’s innovative engineering overcomes this hurdle, enabling highly concentrated yet incredibly effective cleaning solutions.”

Ramirez noted that Micro-E products are safe for human contact without protective equipment and are designed to meet stringent green certifications, including Green Seal, Safer Choice, and EU Ecolabel. An added benefit is an ingredient engineered to increase hydrophilicity, which reduces re-soiling and makes surfaces progressively easier to clean.

Initial Micro-E products include a restroom cleaner, general purpose cleaner, heavy-duty degreaser, and glass and mirror cleaner.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760671192069.jpeg" alt="By tapping cleaning tech, Fuller Industries is helping customers deal with staffing shortages." />
 <figcaption>By tapping cleaning tech, Fuller Industries is helping customers deal with staffing shortages.</figcaption>
 </figure>Fuller Industries Inc., a long-time manufacturer of cleaning products, is introducing new solutions designed to help businesses navigate current commercial cleaning staffing shortages and turnover rates, and meet growing sustainability demands. The company's latest innovations focus on helping commercial cleaning operations do more with less through smarter workload management and environmentally conscious products.“In today’s landscape of tight budgets and staffing shortages, mastering how to do more with less is essential,” said Joe Mann, Fuller Industries' general manager. “Our goal is to equip our customers with practical tools to streamline workflows, optimize resources and elevate client satisfaction.”Fuller Industries is leveraging two major growth trends: the overall expansion of the global cleaning products market, projected to reach $302.9 billion in 2023, and the accelerating demand for sustainable products, which is expected to grow from $270.89 billion in 2022 to $430.61 billion by 2030. The company's new offerings are designed to capitalize on both.“We go to great lengths to ensure that we behave as responsible global citizens,” Mann said. “We have learned that being environmentally aware and business-oriented can exist hand-in-hand.”One key innovation is the company’s award-winning monopod dosing system. These 100% water-soluble capsules contain concentrated formulas that simplify cleaning and reduce waste. By using fewer and smaller plastic containers, monopods save on shipping costs and allow for more efficient transportation.The company is also shifting its use of surfactants, the compounds that allow dirt to rise to the surface. Historically, petroleum-based products have been the industry standard, but Fuller is transitioning to natural, more sustainable ingredients.Fuller’s commitment to sustainability is backed by independent certifications. Many of its products carry the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safer Choice label, which identifies products with safer chemical ingredients for both human health and the environment. The EPA annually audits products with this distinction to ensure they continue to meet strict standards for performance, pH, and packaging.Additionally, Fuller cleaners have the Green Seal label, a certification from a global nonprofit that has set high standards for health, sustainability, and product performance for over 30 years.“That Green Seal certification helps buyers and consumers make healthier choices that are better for the environment,” Mann said.The company's latest breakthrough is Micro-E, a family of micro-engineered natural concentrates. These highly concentrated cleaning solutions are derived entirely from natural ingredients, yet they deliver powerful performance that rivals traditional chemicals.“Until now, natural cleaning products often suffered from performance loss when concentrated, especially for professional use,” said Dr. Jose Ramirez, chief science advisor for Fuller Industries. “Fuller’s innovative engineering overcomes this hurdle, enabling highly concentrated yet incredibly effective cleaning solutions.”Ramirez noted that Micro-E products are safe for human contact without protective equipment and are designed to meet stringent green certifications, including Green Seal, Safer Choice, and EU Ecolabel. An added benefit is an ingredient engineered to increase hydrophilicity, which reduces re-soiling and makes surfaces progressively easier to clean.Initial Micro-E products include a restroom cleaner, general purpose cleaner, heavy-duty degreaser, and glass and mirror cleaner.“Business is booming, and we are on the cutting edge,” Mann said. “We are adamantly committed to making sure we meet the needs of our customers, while not forgetting our shared responsibility to the world around us.”About Fuller Industries Inc. Based in Great Bend, Kan., with a rich heritage dating back over a century to the Fuller Brush Man, Fuller Industries is a leading American manufacturer of industrial products, including cleaning chemicals and supplies, as well as brooms, mops, brushes and more. Fuller serves manufacturing, commercial, institutional and agricultural clients across the Western Hemisphere. Call 620-792-1711 or visit Fullerindustriesinc.com.

Local