In the past week, sorghum ergot has been detected in several locations in Kansas, primarily in forage sorghum fields, but also in grain sorghum. This is a relatively rare event, with notable prior occurrences in 1997 and 2017. Sorghum ergot in the U.S. is caused by the fungus Claviceps africana. Claviceps africana has been reported in Australia, Central America, North America, South America, and South Africa. Sorghum ergot is not the same pathogen that causes ergot in wheat (Claviceps purpurea).

Sorghum ergot development - this fungus, Claviceps africana, infects unfertilized sorghum ovaries, resulting in no development of grain. Pollen present at the same time as ergot inoculum usually prevents ergot infection because pollination occurs much more quickly. The absence of pollen in male-sterile sorghum forage fields makes them extremely susceptible to infection by C. africana when both the pathogen and a favorable environment/weather are present. Sorghum ergot can also be a problem if pollen is somehow absent or ineffective at the flowering stage. This can occur if the plants were subjected to cool, moist conditions prior to or during the flowering period. Anything that reduces pollination increases the potential for ergot infection.

Studies have shown a higher risk of sorghum ergot infection when minimum temperatures are ~53°F. Additionally, the chance of infection decreases when temperatures are above 75°F prior to flowering.

Symptoms and Dispersal - sorghum ergot is a grain replacement disease that creates two major problems.

· First, infection of non-pollinated ovaries precludes normal seed-set or development. Thus, infections are directly responsible for grain yield losses.

· Secondly, seed developing adjacent to infected florets often become contaminated with sugary, sphacelia honeydew, which is a sweet, sticky, amber-colored fluid (Figure 1).

Ergot infection is easy to identify because of the abundance of honeydew that the fungus produces. Thick, sticky, ambered colored, syrup-like honeydew drips from the sorghum head to the leaves and to the ground, where it often dries in a white powdery like substance. The honeydew also sometimes appears as a dried brown to black colored mass in place of kernels in the sorghum head.

Is ergot in sorghum toxic to cattle and other livestock? We are not aware of any issues with toxicity in the past or present in the US caused by the ergot fungus Claviceps africana that infects sorghum. This includes forage fed as silage or hay. It is very important to note that this is not the same ergot fungus that infects wheat, rye, triticale and fescue. The honeydew itself contains very little toxin (alkaloids). In the sorghum head, instead of grain being produced, a compact, hard fungal mass called sclerotia may develop in the later stages of infection. It has a tough outer rind and a compact inner core that may be reddish brown in color and replaces kernels. Do not confuse this with dried honeydew or secondary infections. These sclerotium fall to the ground or are generally separated from the grain during processing. These sclerotia would be expected to have a higher level of alkaloids. However, it is important to note that in the High Plains, there is some question about whether sclerotia is even produced.

Management considerations · Fungicide applications at this point in time will not be effective.

· Harvesting of sorghum, for grain or silage, may prove difficult due to the sticky nature of the honeydew.

· If portions of the field are more severely affected than others, producers may consider not harvesting that portion of the field or keeping the resulting hay lots separate for future testing.

· Delaying harvest until after a rain or freeze can help reduce the amount of honeydew on the plant.

· Honeydew can cause mold formation in baled hay or silage. Mold formation will reduce feed quality and can form mycotoxins.

· The presence of alkaloids, which are a toxic concern for livestock feeding, is reliant on the production of sclerotia. At this time, sclerotia production has not been verified in Kansas fields.

K-State Extension is continuing to monitor this situation and evaluate the infections present in Kansas. If you have any additional questions please reach out to us in the Cottonwood Extension District.

Information provided by Rodrigo Onofre, K-State Extension Row Crop Plant Disease specialist.

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

<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>In the past week, sorghum ergot has been detected in several locations in Kansas, primarily in forage sorghum fields, but also in grain sorghum. This is a relatively rare event, with notable prior occurrences in 1997 and 2017. Sorghum ergot in the U.S. is caused by the fungus Claviceps africana. Claviceps africana has been reported in Australia, Central America, North America, South America, and South Africa. Sorghum ergot is not the same pathogen that causes ergot in wheat (Claviceps purpurea).Sorghum ergot development - this fungus, Claviceps africana, infects unfertilized sorghum ovaries, resulting in no development of grain. Pollen present at the same time as ergot inoculum usually prevents ergot infection because pollination occurs much more quickly. The absence of pollen in male-sterile sorghum forage fields makes them extremely susceptible to infection by C. africana when both the pathogen and a favorable environment/weather are present. Sorghum ergot can also be a problem if pollen is somehow absent or ineffective at the flowering stage. This can occur if the plants were subjected to cool, moist conditions prior to or during the flowering period. Anything that reduces pollination increases the potential for ergot infection.Studies have shown a higher risk of sorghum ergot infection when minimum temperatures are ~53°F. Additionally, the chance of infection decreases when temperatures are above 75°F prior to flowering.Symptoms and Dispersal - sorghum ergot is a grain replacement disease that creates two major problems.· First, infection of non-pollinated ovaries precludes normal seed-set or development. Thus, infections are directly responsible for grain yield losses.· Secondly, seed developing adjacent to infected florets often become contaminated with sugary, sphacelia honeydew, which is a sweet, sticky, amber-colored fluid (Figure 1).Ergot infection is easy to identify because of the abundance of honeydew that the fungus produces. Thick, sticky, ambered colored, syrup-like honeydew drips from the sorghum head to the leaves and to the ground, where it often dries in a white powdery like substance. The honeydew also sometimes appears as a dried brown to black colored mass in place of kernels in the sorghum head.Is ergot in sorghum toxic to cattle and other livestock? We are not aware of any issues with toxicity in the past or present in the US caused by the ergot fungus Claviceps africana that infects sorghum. This includes forage fed as silage or hay. It is very important to note that this is not the same ergot fungus that infects wheat, rye, triticale and fescue. The honeydew itself contains very little toxin (alkaloids). In the sorghum head, instead of grain being produced, a compact, hard fungal mass called sclerotia may develop in the later stages of infection. It has a tough outer rind and a compact inner core that may be reddish brown in color and replaces kernels. Do not confuse this with dried honeydew or secondary infections. These sclerotium fall to the ground or are generally separated from the grain during processing. These sclerotia would be expected to have a higher level of alkaloids. However, it is important to note that in the High Plains, there is some question about whether sclerotia is even produced.Management considerations · Fungicide applications at this point in time will not be effective.· Harvesting of sorghum, for grain or silage, may prove difficult due to the sticky nature of the honeydew.· If portions of the field are more severely affected than others, producers may consider not harvesting that portion of the field or keeping the resulting hay lots separate for future testing.· Delaying harvest until after a rain or freeze can help reduce the amount of honeydew on the plant.· Honeydew can cause mold formation in baled hay or silage. Mold formation will reduce feed quality and can form mycotoxins.· The presence of alkaloids, which are a toxic concern for livestock feeding, is reliant on the production of sclerotia. At this time, sclerotia production has not been verified in Kansas fields.K-State Extension is continuing to monitor this situation and evaluate the infections present in Kansas. If you have any additional questions please reach out to us in the Cottonwood Extension District.Information provided by Rodrigo Onofre, K-State Extension Row Crop Plant Disease specialist.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Sorghum ergot being found in Kansas

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The mark of good training is when it pays off in times of crisis. On Sept. 12, two Great Bend High School educators jumped into action after a student lit a fire in a bathroom trash can. Karen Moeder and Rachel Thexton were recognized during Monday's USD 428 Board of Education with Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education, or R.O.S.E., Awards. GBHS Principal Brock Funke presented the educators with plaques.

"We always say, 'What would it be like to have a fire drill during lunch?' Well, we had an actual fire and it went very well. But the big reason why is these two amazing gals we have here tonight. I can't say enough about the way they stepped up."

Funke reiterated the importance of training. For Moeder, it was how to properly use a fire extinguisher using the PASS acronym for pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. Thexton helped navigate the students during the fire, which was extinguished before Great Bend Fire Department personnel arrived.

"I can't say enough about these two ladies, just on a daily basis," Funke added. "I'm not surprised by their actions, for them stepping in, because they're great mentors and leaders. The biggest thing is they love our kids and do whatever our kids need."

As it does with all serious school-related events, USD 428 issued a statement to parents on the day of the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760402550593.jpeg" alt="From left, USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton, Great Bend High School educators Rachel Thexton, and Karen Moeder, and GBHS Principal Brock Funke. The two educators were recognized by the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night for their quick reactions to a Sept. 12 fire at GBHS." />
 <figcaption>From left, USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton, Great Bend High School educators Rachel Thexton, and Karen Moeder, and GBHS Principal Brock Funke. The two educators were recognized by the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night for their quick reactions to a Sept. 12 fire at GBHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe mark of good training is when it pays off in times of crisis. On Sept. 12, two Great Bend High School educators jumped into action after a student lit a fire in a bathroom trash can. Karen Moeder and Rachel Thexton were recognized during Monday's USD 428 Board of Education with Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education, or R.O.S.E., Awards. GBHS Principal Brock Funke presented the educators with plaques."We always say, 'What would it be like to have a fire drill during lunch?' Well, we had an actual fire and it went very well. But the big reason why is these two amazing gals we have here tonight. I can't say enough about the way they stepped up."Funke reiterated the importance of training. For Moeder, it was how to properly use a fire extinguisher using the PASS acronym for pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. Thexton helped navigate the students during the fire, which was extinguished before Great Bend Fire Department personnel arrived."I can't say enough about these two ladies, just on a daily basis," Funke added. "I'm not surprised by their actions, for them stepping in, because they're great mentors and leaders. The biggest thing is they love our kids and do whatever our kids need."As it does with all serious school-related events, USD 428 issued a statement to parents on the day of the incident.

Two Great Bend High School educators recognized for quick reaction during fire

Booked Martin, Dustin D. on Barton County District Court case #25-1034 for Intoxicated Pedestrian. Bond set $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Booked Garcia-Pinales, Omar on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1596 for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, Improper Turn, and Improper Driving on Laned Roadway; bond set at $1,000.00 cash or Surety or 48 Hour O.R.

Booked in Rose, Nicholas A. on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant 202500264 for Failure to Appear, bond set at $267.50 cash Only.

Booked Newell, Ashley K. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500618 for Failure to Appear; bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Newell, Ashley K. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500518 for Failure to Appear after posting a $500.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Released Rose, Nicholas A. on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant 202500264 for Failure to Appear. Posted $267.50 cash Bond.

Booked Strange, Janie Marie on Barton County District Court warrant # BT2025CR0295 for Contempt of Court bond set at No Bond.

Released Ellis, Dustin L. on Barton County Warrant #8T2023CR0071 for Serve Sentence. Time Served.

Booked Akins, Michael of Great Bend, KS on Great Bend Municipal Court warrants #202500671 and #2025007L4 both for failure to appear. Both bonds are set at NO BONDS.

Booked in Stiles, Kaden on Barton County District Court warrants #8T2025CR0172, #8T2024CR0055, and #8T2025CR0171 for Contempt of Court. Bond set at NO BOND.

Booked Zamarripa, Jeremiah of Great Bend, KS on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202100294 for Contempt of Court with bond set at $2,861.00 Cash Only.

Booked in Hastings, Trey M. on Johnson County District Court warrant # 20CR01311 for Failure to appear. Bond set at $5,000.00 cash/surety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758251911101.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Booked Martin, Dustin D. on Barton County District Court case #25-1034 for Intoxicated Pedestrian. Bond set $500.00 Cash or Surety.Released Richardson, Trenton to KDOC.Released Torres, Eric W. to K.D.O.CReleased Swigert, Sean R. to KDOCReleased Craword, Maddison to KDOC.Booked Garcia-Pinales, Omar on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1596 for Driving Under the Influence, No Driver's License, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, Improper Turn, and Improper Driving on Laned Roadway; bond set at $1,000.00 cash or Surety or 48 Hour O.R.Booked in Rose, Nicholas A. on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant 202500264 for Failure to Appear, bond set at $267.50 cash Only.Booked Newell, Ashley K. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500618 for Failure to Appear; bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.Released Newell, Ashley K. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500518 for Failure to Appear after posting a $500.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.Released Rose, Nicholas A. on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant 202500264 for Failure to Appear. Posted $267.50 cash Bond.Booked Strange, Janie Marie on Barton County District Court warrant # BT2025CR0295 for Contempt of Court bond set at No Bond.Released Ellis, Dustin L. on Barton County Warrant #8T2023CR0071 for Serve Sentence. Time Served.Booked Akins, Michael of Great Bend, KS on Great Bend Municipal Court warrants #202500671 and #2025007L4 both for failure to appear. Both bonds are set at NO BONDS.Booked in Stiles, Kaden on Barton County District Court warrants #8T2025CR0172, #8T2024CR0055, and #8T2025CR0171 for Contempt of Court. Bond set at NO BOND.Booked Zamarripa, Jeremiah of Great Bend, KS on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202100294 for Contempt of Court with bond set at $2,861.00 Cash Only.Booked in Hastings, Trey M. on Johnson County District Court warrant # 20CR01311 for Failure to appear. Bond set at $5,000.00 cash/surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (10/13)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The good news is Great Bend’s Rubi Spray has qualified for
the Boston Marathon. The bad news, at least it would be for most people, is
that she now must continue training to run marathons. Spray, however, was on
cloud nine after running Sunday’s Chicago Marathon in 3:16:20, nine minutes under the qualifying time for Boston, and 10 minutes
ahead of her personal best marathon time.

“I think for people who train for marathons, it’s one of the
biggest achievements,” she said. “People who understand what goes into marathon
training realize the magnitude of that. The Boston Marathon, you can’t just
sign up and run it. You have to qualify for it. Even when you get a qualifying
time, you may not make it.”

The Chicago Marathon was just Spray’s third race at 26.2
miles. After running in Salina in 2024, Spray set her eyes on the qualifying time
for Boston. In April, she came up less than a minute shy of that mark at the
Oklahoma City Marathon. Following Salina, she had entered her name for a
lottery selection in Chicago, submitting an optimistic 3-hour, 40-minute
goal. The goal pace changed to 7 minutes, 30 seconds per mile for a 3-hour, 20-minute finish.

“Once you realize how hard it is to get into the world
majors with a lottery pick, you realize the magnitude of it all,” Spray said. “Once
I had that under me, I knew I couldn’t stop. Now it’s turned into chasing the
world majors.”

There are several World Major Marathons, six of which have a
lottery for non-qualified runners. The Boston Marathon, which dates back to
1897, does not have a lottery. Sunday’s Chicago race featured more than 54,000
runners. Spray finished 1,373rd out of all female competitors, or in the top five percent among women runners. At
the conclusion of the race, she received a Boston Qualifying patch and got to
ring the BQ Bell.

“They have two stations specially for people who have
qualified for Boston,” she said. “It was a surreal experience for sure. I never
thought I would turn into a marathon runner. I kind of thought I was done with
running, especially competitive running, after college. To now become a
marathon runner, and even toying with the idea of ultras, it’s like what is
life right now?”

Running 26.2 miles is never not work, but Spray also
relished her experience of collecting her first world star by running in a major.
The race took the runners through 29 Chicago neighborhoods. Spray originally planned
to listen to her own playlist. That was sidetracked early on when her headphones
stopped working.

“My playlist was timed to when I knew I had to take off, which
was ‘Thunderstruck,’” she said. “Of course, I had some Taylor Swift songs
thrown in there, and I know what those meant mile-wise and when I needed to be
at a certain point. It threw me off that way, but honestly it was for the best.
Chicago was nuts. The people just kept me going.”

Then there were the treats along the way. A young girl
handed Spray a banana at Mile 13 to provide some energy. Spray also received a call from
mom at Mile 13 with the realization she was on pace to qualify for Boston.

“I joke around that I can’t math and run, but I knew that 1:40
translates to 3:20 finishing, so I knew I was within the qualifying time,”
Spray said. “I got the zoomies during that second half.”

Spray is also cautious about staying hydrated during races,
taking in water, Gatorade, and pickle juice when available during the run.
Spray, who is of Mexican heritage, was vaguely aware of bebidas en la
bolsa, or drinks in a bag. She received another treat at Mile 21.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a2ca87b6-2257-45bb-a129-8e5dbb9ee211">READ MORE: Former GBHS standout inducted into Newman HOF</a>

“I’ve always been a very intuitive eater,” she said. “When
my body is asking for certain things, I will give that to me body. Sometimes it’s
fruits and vegetables. At Mile 21, this guy has Coca-Cola in a bag. That is my
weakness. I love Coca-Cola. It sounded so refreshing. The sun is coming out and
they’re changing the level from green to yellow, meaning it’s starting to get
warmer – not the best conditions. I grabbed the bag and I got the zoomies. I
ran that mile in 6:54, which is pretty good for me.”

Spray was a 3-sport athlete at Great Bend High School. She
became a four-time individual state medalist at the state track meet, and also had
three all-state finishes in cross country. That led her to Wichita’s Newman
University, where she set several school records and was later inducted into
the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame. Then she became a mom and a medical
professional. Her friends, Megan and Kayti, got her back into competitive
running.

“It really was more about finding other women, especially
women who have had kids, which is something that is talked about but not so
much,” Spray said. “There are very few professional women, especially, who come
back after having kids. Megan got me started on it. Then I met Kayti, who was
running while pregnant with twin boys.”

Spray’s kids were at the top of her mind following Sunday’s
race. That evening, she was on a train headed to the airport when a bystander
expressed disbelief that Spray was heading back to Kansas so soon.

“I said, ‘I miss by babies! I have to get back to them!’ Who
is going to get them ready for school tomorrow? My husband has to go to work. I
think that’s the great thing about moms. We just get it done. People always say
they wish they had the time to do it. I make the time.”

Spray is now outlining her spring marathon schedule and
hopes to run in the New York City Marathon in November 2026 to collect her second
world-major star. She plans to run in the Boston Marathon in April of 2027.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760411372000.jpeg" alt="Great Bend's Rubi Spray finished 1,373rd out of nearly 25,000 women running in Sunday's Chicago Marathon. Her time of three hours and 16 minutes qualifies her to run in the 2027 Boston Marathon." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend's Rubi Spray finished 1,373rd out of nearly 25,000 women running in Sunday's Chicago Marathon. Her time of three hours and 16 minutes qualifies her to run in the 2027 Boston Marathon.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe good news is Great Bend’s Rubi Spray has qualified for
the Boston Marathon. The bad news, at least it would be for most people, is
that she now must continue training to run marathons. Spray, however, was on
cloud nine after running Sunday’s Chicago Marathon in 3:16:20, nine minutes under the qualifying time for Boston, and 10 minutes
ahead of her personal best marathon time.“I think for people who train for marathons, it’s one of the
biggest achievements,” she said. “People who understand what goes into marathon
training realize the magnitude of that. The Boston Marathon, you can’t just
sign up and run it. You have to qualify for it. Even when you get a qualifying
time, you may not make it.”The Chicago Marathon was just Spray’s third race at 26.2
miles. After running in Salina in 2024, Spray set her eyes on the qualifying time
for Boston. In April, she came up less than a minute shy of that mark at the
Oklahoma City Marathon. Following Salina, she had entered her name for a
lottery selection in Chicago, submitting an optimistic 3-hour, 40-minute
goal. The goal pace changed to 7 minutes, 30 seconds per mile for a 3-hour, 20-minute finish.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760411576524.jpeg" alt="Spray finished 7,812th out of more than 54,000 runners, men and women." />
 <figcaption>Spray finished 7,812th out of more than 54,000 runners, men and women.</figcaption>
 </figure>“Once you realize how hard it is to get into the world
majors with a lottery pick, you realize the magnitude of it all,” Spray said. “Once
I had that under me, I knew I couldn’t stop. Now it’s turned into chasing the
world majors.”There are several World Major Marathons, six of which have a
lottery for non-qualified runners. The Boston Marathon, which dates back to
1897, does not have a lottery. Sunday’s Chicago race featured more than 54,000
runners. Spray finished 1,373rd out of all female competitors, or in the top five percent among women runners. At
the conclusion of the race, she received a Boston Qualifying patch and got to
ring the BQ Bell.“They have two stations specially for people who have
qualified for Boston,” she said. “It was a surreal experience for sure. I never
thought I would turn into a marathon runner. I kind of thought I was done with
running, especially competitive running, after college. To now become a
marathon runner, and even toying with the idea of ultras, it’s like what is
life right now?”Running 26.2 miles is never not work, but Spray also
relished her experience of collecting her first world star by running in a major.
The race took the runners through 29 Chicago neighborhoods. Spray originally planned
to listen to her own playlist. That was sidetracked early on when her headphones
stopped working.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760411673894.jpeg" alt="Spray went "retro" with her look Sunday so her mom could identify her in the throng of runners. She wore Panther red and black and added a green ribbon in her hair like she did while at GBHS." />
 <figcaption>Spray went "retro" with her look Sunday so her mom could identify her in the throng of runners. She wore Panther red and black and added a green ribbon in her hair like she did while at GBHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>“My playlist was timed to when I knew I had to take off, which
was ‘Thunderstruck,’” she said. “Of course, I had some Taylor Swift songs
thrown in there, and I know what those meant mile-wise and when I needed to be
at a certain point. It threw me off that way, but honestly it was for the best.
Chicago was nuts. The people just kept me going.”Then there were the treats along the way. A young girl
handed Spray a banana at Mile 13 to provide some energy. Spray also received a call from
mom at Mile 13 with the realization she was on pace to qualify for Boston.“I joke around that I can’t math and run, but I knew that 1:40
translates to 3:20 finishing, so I knew I was within the qualifying time,”
Spray said. “I got the zoomies during that second half.”Spray is also cautious about staying hydrated during races,
taking in water, Gatorade, and pickle juice when available during the run.
Spray, who is of Mexican heritage, was vaguely aware of bebidas en la
bolsa, or drinks in a bag. She received another treat at Mile 21.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/a2ca87b6-2257-45bb-a129-8e5dbb9ee211">READ MORE: Former GBHS standout inducted into Newman HOF</a>“I’ve always been a very intuitive eater,” she said. “When
my body is asking for certain things, I will give that to me body. Sometimes it’s
fruits and vegetables. At Mile 21, this guy has Coca-Cola in a bag. That is my
weakness. I love Coca-Cola. It sounded so refreshing. The sun is coming out and
they’re changing the level from green to yellow, meaning it’s starting to get
warmer – not the best conditions. I grabbed the bag and I got the zoomies. I
ran that mile in 6:54, which is pretty good for me.”Spray was a 3-sport athlete at Great Bend High School. She
became a four-time individual state medalist at the state track meet, and also had
three all-state finishes in cross country. That led her to Wichita’s Newman
University, where she set several school records and was later inducted into
the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame. Then she became a mom and a medical
professional. Her friends, Megan and Kayti, got her back into competitive
running.“It really was more about finding other women, especially
women who have had kids, which is something that is talked about but not so
much,” Spray said. “There are very few professional women, especially, who come
back after having kids. Megan got me started on it. Then I met Kayti, who was
running while pregnant with twin boys.”Spray’s kids were at the top of her mind following Sunday’s
race. That evening, she was on a train headed to the airport when a bystander
expressed disbelief that Spray was heading back to Kansas so soon.“I said, ‘I miss by babies! I have to get back to them!’ Who
is going to get them ready for school tomorrow? My husband has to go to work. I
think that’s the great thing about moms. We just get it done. People always say
they wish they had the time to do it. I make the time.”Spray is now outlining her spring marathon schedule and
hopes to run in the New York City Marathon in November 2026 to collect her second
world-major star. She plans to run in the Boston Marathon in April of 2027.

Boston Bound: Great Bend's Spray qualifies for world's oldest annual marathon

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 70. East northeast wind 7 to 13 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Southeast wind around 9 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81. South wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 79. Breezy.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 77.

Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 1am. Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 71.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 70. East northeast wind 7 to 13 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Southeast wind around 9 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81. South wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 79. Breezy.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 77.Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 1am. Mostly clear, with a low around 51.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 71.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Tuesday's weather

Mayoral and USD 431 school board candidates will join a forum at the Friendship House (419 E. 3rd St.) on Oct. 16, organized by the League of Women Voters of Great Bend, Barton County. The public is invited to attend and hear candidates address key issues. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; the forum runs from 6 to 7 p.m.

School board candidate presentations start at 6 p.m. with Neil Ochs, Traci Schneider, Derek Davis, and Sara Tarlton. School boards oversee goals, budgets, curricula, superintendent evaluation, and student achievement.

Mayoral candidates Chris Kinman, E.D. Bivens, and Scott Fleming are scheduled to present at 6:30 p.m. The city mayor serves as the chief executive of local government, oversees municipal services, represents the community, and collaborates with the council to develop policy.

Candidates are now providing their details and responding to three questions on the National Voter Guide website, www.vote411.org/ballot. To use the site, simply enter your address and click the 'Get Started' button.

Local elections matter because they affect everyday life—electing leaders who make decisions about schools, public safety, and city services. Voting locally ensures your community’s needs and priorities are heard and addressed.

Mayoral and USD 431 school board candidates will join a forum at the Friendship House (419 E. 3rd St.) on Oct. 16, organized by the League of Women Voters of Great Bend, Barton County. The public is invited to attend and hear candidates address key issues. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; the forum runs from 6 to 7 p.m.School board candidate presentations start at 6 p.m. with Neil Ochs, Traci Schneider, Derek Davis, and Sara Tarlton. School boards oversee goals, budgets, curricula, superintendent evaluation, and student achievement.Mayoral candidates Chris Kinman, E.D. Bivens, and Scott Fleming are scheduled to present at 6:30 p.m. The city mayor serves as the chief executive of local government, oversees municipal services, represents the community, and collaborates with the council to develop policy.Candidates are now providing their details and responding to three questions on the National Voter Guide website, www.vote411.org/ballot. To use the site, simply enter your address and click the 'Get Started' button.Local elections matter because they affect everyday life—electing leaders who make decisions about schools, public safety, and city services. Voting locally ensures your community’s needs and priorities are heard and addressed.

League of Women Voters second candidate forum set for Thursday in Hoisington

Nearly half of Barton County families are living paycheck to paycheck, according to data from United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK). These families, known as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—are working hard but remain one unexpected expense away from financial crisis.

“ALICE families are the backbone of our community,” said Charell Owings, Executive Director of UWCK. “They are childcare workers, grocery clerks, and nursing assistants—the people who keep Barton County running. We’re here to make sure they’re not facing these challenges alone.”

Through a wide range of local programs and partnerships, United Way of Central Kansas is helping families in Barton County overcome daily challenges and build stronger futures:

· Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library delivered 9,476 free books to children in Barton County last year. Early exposure to reading sets children up for school success and lifelong opportunity.

· Stuff the Bus collected 6,242 items and over $2,200 in cash donations for local students, the Ellinwood Heritage Senior Center, and Hoisington Food Bank-helping meet essential needs across the community.

· Reality U &amp; #RealWorld equipped 620 students with essential financial skills—teaching budgeting, credit, and real-world costs that prepare them for life after high school.

· Laundry Love is more than just a laundry program—it’s about building trust and connection while helping families maintain dignity and stability.

· Auto Care Access keeps families on the road to work, school, and appointments, providing vital support like oil changes, tire replacements, and other car repairs that ensure reliable transportation.

· Bank On Central Kansas connects families with safe, affordable banking options so their hard-earned money goes toward groceries and gas instead of high fees.

UWCK also invested $100,000 in local nonprofits including Meals on Wheels, the Family Crisis Center, Salvation Army, and Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas—organizations that provide food, shelter, and vital support for Barton County residents.

Owings shared that small gifts can make a big impact. “If every family living above the ALICE threshold gave just $25 a year—less than one dinner out—we could raise more than $300,000 to strengthen programs and services right here at home,” she said.

Donations can be made online at www.uwck.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760387759826.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Nearly half of Barton County families are living paycheck to paycheck, according to data from United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK). These families, known as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—are working hard but remain one unexpected expense away from financial crisis.“ALICE families are the backbone of our community,” said Charell Owings, Executive Director of UWCK. “They are childcare workers, grocery clerks, and nursing assistants—the people who keep Barton County running. We’re here to make sure they’re not facing these challenges alone.”Through a wide range of local programs and partnerships, United Way of Central Kansas is helping families in Barton County overcome daily challenges and build stronger futures:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760387783346.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>· Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library delivered 9,476 free books to children in Barton County last year. Early exposure to reading sets children up for school success and lifelong opportunity.· Stuff the Bus collected 6,242 items and over $2,200 in cash donations for local students, the Ellinwood Heritage Senior Center, and Hoisington Food Bank-helping meet essential needs across the community.· Reality U &amp; #RealWorld equipped 620 students with essential financial skills—teaching budgeting, credit, and real-world costs that prepare them for life after high school.· Laundry Love is more than just a laundry program—it’s about building trust and connection while helping families maintain dignity and stability.· Auto Care Access keeps families on the road to work, school, and appointments, providing vital support like oil changes, tire replacements, and other car repairs that ensure reliable transportation.· Bank On Central Kansas connects families with safe, affordable banking options so their hard-earned money goes toward groceries and gas instead of high fees.UWCK also invested $100,000 in local nonprofits including Meals on Wheels, the Family Crisis Center, Salvation Army, and Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas—organizations that provide food, shelter, and vital support for Barton County residents.Owings shared that small gifts can make a big impact. “If every family living above the ALICE threshold gave just $25 a year—less than one dinner out—we could raise more than $300,000 to strengthen programs and services right here at home,” she said.Donations can be made online at www.uwck.org.

UWCK Calls on Barton County residents to support ALICE families

Last Friday, at approximately 5:16 p.m., officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an injury accident at the intersection of 9th&nbsp;and Kansas in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Upon officers’ arrival, they located a Black 2018 Suzuki GSX-R750, which had been driven by 25-year-old Nathaniel Larkin, and a white 2015 Ford F-150, which had been driven by 51-year-old Oscar Munoz. Officers determined that Larkin was traveling southbound in the 900 block of Kansas and struck Munoz, who was traveling westbound at 9th&nbsp;and Kansas.&nbsp; Larkin was transported by Great Bend EMS to the University of Kansas Medical Center - Great Bend Campus, where he succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp; 

Munoz was arrested for involuntary manslaughter, DUI and No Driver’s License.&nbsp; Munoz was transported to the Barton County Detention Center where he was booked in lieu of a $100,000.00 bond.&nbsp;

This case remains under investigation.&nbsp; Anyone with information in reference to this case or any other crime is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.&nbsp;

Last Friday, at approximately 5:16 p.m., officers from the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an injury accident at the intersection of 9th&nbsp;and Kansas in Great Bend.&nbsp;Upon officers’ arrival, they located a Black 2018 Suzuki GSX-R750, which had been driven by 25-year-old Nathaniel Larkin, and a white 2015 Ford F-150, which had been driven by 51-year-old Oscar Munoz. Officers determined that Larkin was traveling southbound in the 900 block of Kansas and struck Munoz, who was traveling westbound at 9th&nbsp;and Kansas.&nbsp; Larkin was transported by Great Bend EMS to the University of Kansas Medical Center - Great Bend Campus, where he succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp; Munoz was arrested for involuntary manslaughter, DUI and No Driver’s License.&nbsp; Munoz was transported to the Barton County Detention Center where he was booked in lieu of a $100,000.00 bond.&nbsp;This case remains under investigation.&nbsp; Anyone with information in reference to this case or any other crime is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.&nbsp;

Great Bend Police Department investigating fatal accident from Friday

Great Bend Rec board meeting agenda (10/13)

USD 428 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING Oct. 13, 5 p.m.

AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only USD 428 Board of Education Goals Goal 1: Increase student achievement for all students at all levels. Goal 2: Attract and retain quality staff in USD 428. Goal 3: Provide optimum technology for teaching and learning. Goal 4: Make fiscally sound decisions in order to provide an optimal learning environment for all.

(AI) 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1 Roll Call 1.2 Adoption of Agenda 1.3 Recognition of Visitors 1.4 Request to Speak Reminder · Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent for citizen participation. 1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum

(IO) 2. COMMUNICATIONS · Board Member Comments · USD 428 Education Foundation · Written Communications / Correspondence

(IO) 3. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS ● R.O.S.E Award The Board of Education’s ongoing efforts to honor individuals or groups for their contributions to the school district led to the creation of the R.O.S.E. (Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education) Award. The latest recipient(s) of a R.O.S.E. award will be recognized.

When a fire broke out in a school bathroom trash can, Mrs. Karen Moeder and Mrs. Rachel Thexton immediately took action to protect students and staff. Karen grabbed the fire extinguisher and successfully extinguished the fire before it could spread, while Rachel helped by keeping the area clear and supporting everyone's safety. She stayed calm and composed to assist nearby students and staff in evacuating the area. Thanks to their teamwork, a potentially dangerous situation was quickly contained. Karen and

Rachel demonstrated what we promote every day: doing what's best for our kids at GBHS. Neither hesitated for a second; they jumped in to keep everyone safe. We are incredibly proud and grateful for Karen and Rachel.

● Director’s Report Each month, a district director will present department updates to board members. Ashley Riley, Director of Special Services, will provide a report to board members at this meeting.

(AI) A. Approval of Local Consolidated Plan Allocation (Refer to Mr. Popp) The 2025-2026 Local Consolidated Plan (LCP) amounts total $1,227,629, which compares to a prior-year total of $1,220,792. The administration recommends board approval to allocate state and federal program funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Programs with the allocated amounts are listed below. Title I Improving Education Programs $ 905,959 Title II A Supporting Effective Instruction $ 145,642 Title III English Learner and Immigrant Programs $ 44,187 Title IVA Grants for Student Support/Academic Enrichment $ 57,171 Title I Part C Migrant $ 74,700 Total $1,227,629

(IO) B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application (Refer to Mrs. Riley) Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff, is required. The 2025-2026 application amounts to $1,125,038 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($5,018 more than the prior year) and $43,104 for ECH ($2,270 more than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.

(AI) C. Fleet Management Update (Refer to Mr. Popp) The Board is in the third year of being in a vehicle lease program with Enterprise Fleet Management, and leases on several vehicles are up for discussion. Mr. Popp will discuss the fleet analysis and present the next phase of the lease program.

(AI) D. Approval of Snow Blade Purchases (Refer to Mr. Popp) Mr. Popp will present an estimate and recommend approval to purchase two Boss Snowplows from Kansas Truck Equipment Company, Inc., each priced at $9,118.00. The quote includes the purchase price and labor to attach the plows to trucks. The addition of the snowplows will help grounds crews assist with removing snow from school parking lots more quickly and efficiently.

(AI) E. Approval of UTV John Deere Gator Purchase (Refer to Mr. Popp) GBHS custodial staff currently uses two UTVs at Memorial Stadium for stadium setup for football games, track meets, and other events. The quote from BTI is $11,250 for purchasing a 2026 John Deere Gator UTV for use at the high school. An older UTV will be transferred to the soccer complex, as the 1998 UTV currently there is no longer operational. The administration recommends approval to purchase the 2026 John Deere Gator.

(AI) F. Approval to Release Roof Specifications (Refer to Mr. Popp) Great Bend High School and Park Elementary are scheduled for roof replacement under the Capital Outlay budget. The administration requests approval to release specifications to solicit bids from qualified contractors. Mr. Popp will provide more details.

(IO) 6. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION REPORT (Refer to Assistant Superintendent JoAnn Blevins) A. October Professional Development Mrs. Blevins will report on the district's October 6 Inservice Day and preview the Collaboration Day scheduled for October 17. B. Adoption Updates Mrs. Blevins will update the Board on the various teams working through the curriculum adoption process. C. Kansas Reads to Preschoolers Little Panthers Preschool will participate in the State Library of Kansas' 2025 Kansas Reads to Preschoolers event. This year's selection is Little Nita's Big Idea, written by Anna W. Bardaus and illustrated by Carolina Farias. D. HB 2382 Update Mrs. Blevins will provide an update on the district's work on complying with this statute. E. Curriculum Meetings § Curriculum Steering Committee: 10/7/25 canceled, next meeting 12/2/25 § Professional Development Council (PDC): 10/6/25 minutes, next meeting 11/3/25

(IO/AI) 7. BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS REPORT (Refer to Assistant Superintendent John Popp) A. Public School Works training The Public School Works program automatically assigns our staff annual state and federally mandated training courses through an online testing format. Staff members have completed over 10,000 training modules, covering a wide range of topics, from fire extinguisher safety to suicide prevention, and the majority of employees consistently finish the assigned training on time.

B. District Flu Vaccination Clinics For several years, USD 428 nurses have partnered with the Barton County Health Department to hold BCHD flu vaccination clinics at each school for students and staff. Flu vaccinations will be billed through each individual’s insurance provider. Mr. Popp will present some clinic statistics to the board members.

C. Snow Removal RFQ USD 428 requested quote proposals from qualified and experienced contractors to provide snow removal services for school properties during the 2025-2026 winter season. Mr. Popp will discuss the results.

D. District Surplus The district occasionally has surplus furniture and items for sale, which are now listed and regularly updated on the district website. These items are available to the public, and sales terms can be found on the website. Currently, elementary lunch tables, stacking chairs, bookshelves, and various other items are available for sale at reasonable prices to other schools or individuals.

(IO/AI) 8. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT (Refer to Superintendent Khris Thexton) A. Enrollment Numbers Update B. Bus Safety Week, October 20-24, 2025, “Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes” National School Bus Safety Week promotes bus safety awareness throughout the week and year. Thank you to our staff of bus drivers who work hard to keep students safe. C. Anti-Bullying Awareness Month October is a month-long effort to prevent childhood bullying and encourage kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. D. Strategic Plan Development Mr. Thexton will discuss the development of the Strategic Plan with the Board. E. Personnel Report Recruiting quality teachers for the 2025-26 school year has already started, with upcoming virtual and in-person recruiting fairs scheduled. Additionally, new teachers graduating in December will be considered for positions currently held by long-term substitutes, depending on the availability of a permanent role. F. Approval of Grants and Contributions (Attachment 8.F)

(AI) 10. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes [September 8 and September 24, 2025] B. Bills and Financial Reports C. Personnel Report

(IO) 11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES •BOE Luncheon Meeting: at noon on October 29, 2025 (GB High School) •Education Foundation Annual Dinner &amp; Auction: on November 13, 2025 •Annual KASB Convention: on November 14-16, 2025, in Wichita, KS •BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2025, at the District Education Center.

USD 428 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING Oct. 13, 5 p.m.AI: Action Item DI: Discussion Item IO: Information Only USD 428 Board of Education Goals Goal 1: Increase student achievement for all students at all levels. Goal 2: Attract and retain quality staff in USD 428. Goal 3: Provide optimum technology for teaching and learning. Goal 4: Make fiscally sound decisions in order to provide an optimal learning environment for all.(AI) 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1 Roll Call 1.2 Adoption of Agenda 1.3 Recognition of Visitors 1.4 Request to Speak Reminder · Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent for citizen participation. 1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum(IO) 2. COMMUNICATIONS · Board Member Comments · USD 428 Education Foundation · Written Communications / Correspondence(IO) 3. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS ● R.O.S.E Award The Board of Education’s ongoing efforts to honor individuals or groups for their contributions to the school district led to the creation of the R.O.S.E. (Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education) Award. The latest recipient(s) of a R.O.S.E. award will be recognized.When a fire broke out in a school bathroom trash can, Mrs. Karen Moeder and Mrs. Rachel Thexton immediately took action to protect students and staff. Karen grabbed the fire extinguisher and successfully extinguished the fire before it could spread, while Rachel helped by keeping the area clear and supporting everyone's safety. She stayed calm and composed to assist nearby students and staff in evacuating the area. Thanks to their teamwork, a potentially dangerous situation was quickly contained. Karen andRachel demonstrated what we promote every day: doing what's best for our kids at GBHS. Neither hesitated for a second; they jumped in to keep everyone safe. We are incredibly proud and grateful for Karen and Rachel.● Director’s Report Each month, a district director will present department updates to board members. Ashley Riley, Director of Special Services, will provide a report to board members at this meeting.(IO/AI) 4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS(IO/AI) 5. NEW BUSINESS(AI) A. Approval of Local Consolidated Plan Allocation (Refer to Mr. Popp) The 2025-2026 Local Consolidated Plan (LCP) amounts total $1,227,629, which compares to a prior-year total of $1,220,792. The administration recommends board approval to allocate state and federal program funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Programs with the allocated amounts are listed below. Title I Improving Education Programs $ 905,959 Title II A Supporting Effective Instruction $ 145,642 Title III English Learner and Immigrant Programs $ 44,187 Title IVA Grants for Student Support/Academic Enrichment $ 57,171 Title I Part C Migrant $ 74,700 Total $1,227,629(IO) B. Notification of Title VI B (3-21) and VI B (3-5) Early Childhood Flow-Through Budget Application (Refer to Mrs. Riley) Public notification of the Title VI B and VI B ECH budget, which covers salaries for licensed special education staff, is required. The 2025-2026 application amounts to $1,125,038 for Title VI B pass-through funds ($5,018 more than the prior year) and $43,104 for ECH ($2,270 more than the prior year). The budget application will be available for public review at the Barton County Cooperative of Special Education for the next thirty days.(AI) C. Fleet Management Update (Refer to Mr. Popp) The Board is in the third year of being in a vehicle lease program with Enterprise Fleet Management, and leases on several vehicles are up for discussion. Mr. Popp will discuss the fleet analysis and present the next phase of the lease program.(AI) D. Approval of Snow Blade Purchases (Refer to Mr. Popp) Mr. Popp will present an estimate and recommend approval to purchase two Boss Snowplows from Kansas Truck Equipment Company, Inc., each priced at $9,118.00. The quote includes the purchase price and labor to attach the plows to trucks. The addition of the snowplows will help grounds crews assist with removing snow from school parking lots more quickly and efficiently.(AI) E. Approval of UTV John Deere Gator Purchase (Refer to Mr. Popp) GBHS custodial staff currently uses two UTVs at Memorial Stadium for stadium setup for football games, track meets, and other events. The quote from BTI is $11,250 for purchasing a 2026 John Deere Gator UTV for use at the high school. An older UTV will be transferred to the soccer complex, as the 1998 UTV currently there is no longer operational. The administration recommends approval to purchase the 2026 John Deere Gator.(AI) F. Approval to Release Roof Specifications (Refer to Mr. Popp) Great Bend High School and Park Elementary are scheduled for roof replacement under the Capital Outlay budget. The administration requests approval to release specifications to solicit bids from qualified contractors. Mr. Popp will provide more details.(IO) 6. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION REPORT (Refer to Assistant Superintendent JoAnn Blevins) A. October Professional Development Mrs. Blevins will report on the district's October 6 Inservice Day and preview the Collaboration Day scheduled for October 17. B. Adoption Updates Mrs. Blevins will update the Board on the various teams working through the curriculum adoption process. C. Kansas Reads to Preschoolers Little Panthers Preschool will participate in the State Library of Kansas' 2025 Kansas Reads to Preschoolers event. This year's selection is Little Nita's Big Idea, written by Anna W. Bardaus and illustrated by Carolina Farias. D. HB 2382 Update Mrs. Blevins will provide an update on the district's work on complying with this statute. E. Curriculum Meetings § Curriculum Steering Committee: 10/7/25 canceled, next meeting 12/2/25 § Professional Development Council (PDC): 10/6/25 minutes, next meeting 11/3/25(IO/AI) 7. BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS REPORT (Refer to Assistant Superintendent John Popp) A. Public School Works training The Public School Works program automatically assigns our staff annual state and federally mandated training courses through an online testing format. Staff members have completed over 10,000 training modules, covering a wide range of topics, from fire extinguisher safety to suicide prevention, and the majority of employees consistently finish the assigned training on time.B. District Flu Vaccination Clinics For several years, USD 428 nurses have partnered with the Barton County Health Department to hold BCHD flu vaccination clinics at each school for students and staff. Flu vaccinations will be billed through each individual’s insurance provider. Mr. Popp will present some clinic statistics to the board members.C. Snow Removal RFQ USD 428 requested quote proposals from qualified and experienced contractors to provide snow removal services for school properties during the 2025-2026 winter season. Mr. Popp will discuss the results.D. District Surplus The district occasionally has surplus furniture and items for sale, which are now listed and regularly updated on the district website. These items are available to the public, and sales terms can be found on the website. Currently, elementary lunch tables, stacking chairs, bookshelves, and various other items are available for sale at reasonable prices to other schools or individuals.(IO/AI) 8. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT (Refer to Superintendent Khris Thexton) A. Enrollment Numbers Update B. Bus Safety Week, October 20-24, 2025, “Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes” National School Bus Safety Week promotes bus safety awareness throughout the week and year. Thank you to our staff of bus drivers who work hard to keep students safe. C. Anti-Bullying Awareness Month October is a month-long effort to prevent childhood bullying and encourage kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. D. Strategic Plan Development Mr. Thexton will discuss the development of the Strategic Plan with the Board. E. Personnel Report Recruiting quality teachers for the 2025-26 school year has already started, with upcoming virtual and in-person recruiting fairs scheduled. Additionally, new teachers graduating in December will be considered for positions currently held by long-term substitutes, depending on the availability of a permanent role. F. Approval of Grants and Contributions (Attachment 8.F)(IO) 9. FINANCIAL PRESENTATION(AI) 10. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes [September 8 and September 24, 2025] B. Bills and Financial Reports C. Personnel Report (IO) 11. UPCOMING MEETING DATES •BOE Luncheon Meeting: at noon on October 29, 2025 (GB High School) •Education Foundation Annual Dinner &amp; Auction: on November 13, 2025 •Annual KASB Convention: on November 14-16, 2025, in Wichita, KS •BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2025, at the District Education Center.(AI) 12. ADJOURNMENT

USD 428 Board of Education meeting agenda (10/13)

Booked Ramirez- Medrano, Joshua on Barton County District Court Case #25-1031 for Introduction Contraband, Possession Stimulant, Driving Under the Influence, Transport Open Container, Interlock, Speed, Traffic- Control Signal. Bond set at $40,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Gillen, Abigail on Hutchinson Municipal Court warrant #MC250028001 for SERVE SENTENCE. Time Served.

Released Viegra, Lisa on Barton County District Court Case #BT2025CR0230 for Serve Sentence, Time Served.

Booked Immediato, Chrisopher Quinn on Barton County District Court Case # 25-1032 on Possession of marijuana and Possession of Meth and Possession of paraphernalia bond was set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Immediato, Chrisopher Quinn on Barton County District Court Case # 25-1032 on Possession of marijuana and Possession of Meth and Possession of paraphernalia. After posting a $10,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked in Juvenile on Great Bend Police Department Case #25-1693 for Interference with Law Enforcement with a bond of No Bond.

Released Juvenile on Great Bend Police Department Case #25-1693 for Interference with Law Enforcement with No Bond. Released to Guardians.

Released Caruthers, Crystal on Great Bend Municipal Court case#25-1690 for Criminal Damage to property. She was released on a 48 hour O.R. bond.

Booked in Lang, Virginia A. on Barton County District Court case # 25-1033 for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended. Bond is set at $10,000.00 cash/surety.

Booked Hernandez, Jennifer Ann on Barton County District Court Case #25-1030 for Driving while revoked. Bond set at $2,500.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Hernandez, Jennifer Ann on Barton County District Court case #25-1030 for Driving while Revoked with surety bond $2,500.00 through Ace Bail Bonds.

Released Dominguez, Ismael III on Great Bend Municipal Court Case 202401014 for Serve Sentence. Time Served.

Released Herren, Justin for Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant #202500626 for Serve Sentence with Time Served.

Released Reyes-Almanza, Fernando on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1683 for Domestic Battery. Bonded with $1,000.00 Cash.

Booked Gillen, Abigail on Hutchinson Municipal Court warrant #MC250028001 for SERVE SENTENCE. Bond set at No Bond.

Booked in Deines, Kirk R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1685 for Circumvention of Ignition interlock Device, bond of $1,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Deines, Kirk R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1685 for Circumvention of Ignition interlock Device, surety of $1,000.00 Cash posted by Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked in Viegra, Lisa on Barton County District Court Case #BT2025CR0230 for Serve Sentence, bond set at NO BOND.

Released Hamby- Raya, Ashlynn N. on a Barton County District Court Serve Sentence #BT2022CR0430, Time served. Barton County District Court Serve Sentence #2025CR0007, Released on time served.

Booked Ellis, Dustin L. on Barton County Warrant #BT2023CR0071 for Serve Sentence with a bond of No Bond.

Booked in Herren, Justin on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500626 for serve sentence. Bond set at NO Bond.

Booked Caruthers, Crystal R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1690 for Domestic Criminal Damage with a bond of $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Booked Munoz-Rojas, Oscar on Barton County District Court case #25-1687 for Involuntary Manslaughter, Driving Under Influence, and No Driver License. Bond set at $100,000.00 Cash or surety.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758251911101.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>10/12</h2>Booked Ramirez- Medrano, Joshua on Barton County District Court Case #25-1031 for Introduction Contraband, Possession Stimulant, Driving Under the Influence, Transport Open Container, Interlock, Speed, Traffic- Control Signal. Bond set at $40,000.00 Cash or Surety.Released Gillen, Abigail on Hutchinson Municipal Court warrant #MC250028001 for SERVE SENTENCE. Time Served.Released Viegra, Lisa on Barton County District Court Case #BT2025CR0230 for Serve Sentence, Time Served.Booked Immediato, Chrisopher Quinn on Barton County District Court Case # 25-1032 on Possession of marijuana and Possession of Meth and Possession of paraphernalia bond was set at $10,000.00 Cash or Surety.Released Immediato, Chrisopher Quinn on Barton County District Court Case # 25-1032 on Possession of marijuana and Possession of Meth and Possession of paraphernalia. After posting a $10,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.Booked in Juvenile on Great Bend Police Department Case #25-1693 for Interference with Law Enforcement with a bond of No Bond.Released Juvenile on Great Bend Police Department Case #25-1693 for Interference with Law Enforcement with No Bond. Released to Guardians.Released Caruthers, Crystal on Great Bend Municipal Court case#25-1690 for Criminal Damage to property. She was released on a 48 hour O.R. bond.Booked in Lang, Virginia A. on Barton County District Court case # 25-1033 for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended. Bond is set at $10,000.00 cash/surety.<h2>10/11</h2>Booked Hernandez, Jennifer Ann on Barton County District Court Case #25-1030 for Driving while revoked. Bond set at $2,500.00 Cash or Surety.Released Hernandez, Jennifer Ann on Barton County District Court case #25-1030 for Driving while Revoked with surety bond $2,500.00 through Ace Bail Bonds.Released Dominguez, Ismael III on Great Bend Municipal Court Case 202401014 for Serve Sentence. Time Served.Released Herren, Justin for Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant #202500626 for Serve Sentence with Time Served.<h2>10/10</h2>Released Reyes-Almanza, Fernando on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-1683 for Domestic Battery. Bonded with $1,000.00 Cash.Booked Gillen, Abigail on Hutchinson Municipal Court warrant #MC250028001 for SERVE SENTENCE. Bond set at No Bond.Booked in Deines, Kirk R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1685 for Circumvention of Ignition interlock Device, bond of $1,000.00 Cash or Surety.Released Deines, Kirk R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1685 for Circumvention of Ignition interlock Device, surety of $1,000.00 Cash posted by Ace Bail Bonds.Booked in Viegra, Lisa on Barton County District Court Case #BT2025CR0230 for Serve Sentence, bond set at NO BOND.Released Hamby- Raya, Ashlynn N. on a Barton County District Court Serve Sentence #BT2022CR0430, Time served. Barton County District Court Serve Sentence #2025CR0007, Released on time served.Booked Ellis, Dustin L. on Barton County Warrant #BT2023CR0071 for Serve Sentence with a bond of No Bond.Booked in Herren, Justin on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500626 for serve sentence. Bond set at NO Bond.Booked Caruthers, Crystal R. on Great Bend Municipal Court Case #25-1690 for Domestic Criminal Damage with a bond of $500.00 Cash or Surety.Booked Munoz-Rojas, Oscar on Barton County District Court case #25-1687 for Involuntary Manslaughter, Driving Under Influence, and No Driver License. Bond set at $100,000.00 Cash or surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (10/10-10/12)

Local candidates took to the stage last Tuesday in a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters. That means Election Day is just around the corner. Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler reminds voters of some important dates prior to the election.

"The voter registration deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 14, so that means early voting can start Wednesday, Oct. 15 in our office," she said. "We have everything ready to go, so we will start early voting Wednesday morning. You can vote from 8 a.m to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, when we're open. (Early voting) ends on Nov. 3 at noon."

Polling locations will then be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the county on Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Early voting gives residents an extra two weeks to vote. The goal is to make elections accessible to all voters. Despite those efforts, few turn out in the odd-numbered years. Nearly 60 percent of Barton County voters turned out in the 2016 general election that included a presidential race. That number fell to 24 percent in the 2017 general election for local seats.

"The municipal elections are generally a much lower turnout than gubernatorial and presidential years," Schmeidler said. "The city councils, mayors, and school boards, they touch your everyday lives. I wish we could get a higher turnout."

Fewer than 25 percent of eligible Barton County voters hit the polls in 2019. The presidential races in 2020 and 2024 brought out 68 and 63 percent of county voters, respectively. Local results will be posted on Great Bend Post.com on Election Night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758214351990.jpeg" alt="Barton County election officials and representatives from the Great Bend League of Women Voters talked to Great Bend and Ellinwood senior government students last month about the importance of voting." />
 <figcaption>Barton County election officials and representatives from the Great Bend League of Women Voters talked to Great Bend and Ellinwood senior government students last month about the importance of voting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLocal candidates took to the stage last Tuesday in a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters. That means Election Day is just around the corner. Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler reminds voters of some important dates prior to the election."The voter registration deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 14, so that means early voting can start Wednesday, Oct. 15 in our office," she said. "We have everything ready to go, so we will start early voting Wednesday morning. You can vote from 8 a.m to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, when we're open. (Early voting) ends on Nov. 3 at noon."Polling locations will then be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the county on Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Early voting gives residents an extra two weeks to vote. The goal is to make elections accessible to all voters. Despite those efforts, few turn out in the odd-numbered years. Nearly 60 percent of Barton County voters turned out in the 2016 general election that included a presidential race. That number fell to 24 percent in the 2017 general election for local seats."The municipal elections are generally a much lower turnout than gubernatorial and presidential years," Schmeidler said. "The city councils, mayors, and school boards, they touch your everyday lives. I wish we could get a higher turnout."Fewer than 25 percent of eligible Barton County voters hit the polls in 2019. The presidential races in 2020 and 2024 brought out 68 and 63 percent of county voters, respectively. Local results will be posted on Great Bend Post.com on Election Night.

Tomorrow is the deadline to register to vote for Nov. 4 General Election

Columbus Day A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Northeast wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers. Cloudy, with a low around 57. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 74. South wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. South southeast wind around 9 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.

Thursday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Columbus Day A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Northeast wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Monday Night A 40 percent chance of showers. Cloudy, with a low around 57. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.Tuesday Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 74. South wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. South southeast wind around 9 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.Thursday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51.

Monday's weather

Fuller Industries Inc. emphasized the importance of safety during wet conditions as the focus of its October “Toolbox Talk,” an initiative designed to reinforce crucial workplace safety practices.​

The topic, “Working Safely in the Rain,” addressed the common hazards associated with wet environments, including slips, reduced visibility and electrical risks, for both indoor and outdoor employees.​

Bree Husted, environmental health and safety assistant for the Great Bend-based commercial cleaning product maker, underscored the necessity of remaining vigilant despite the seemingly harmless nature of rain.​

“Rain may seem harmless, but it can quickly turn a normal workday into a safety hazard,” Husted said. “Wet conditions can cause slips, trips, and falls, reduce visibility and affect the way equipment and chemicals react. Whether you work indoors with open dock doors or outdoors around vehicles and machinery, rain safety should always be a top priority.”

​The talk covered several key hazards, including slippery surfaces indoors from tracked-in water, reduced visibility from dark clouds or heavy rain, and the risk of chemical reactions if water contacts certain substances. Electrical hazards were also highlighted, with a reminder to keep cords, tools and outlets dry.​

Fuller Industries employees were reminded of safe work practices, including:

​“Safety doesn’t stop just because it’s raining — it starts with awareness, preparation, and teamwork,” Husted added. “A few extra minutes of caution can prevent hours of downtime or injury.”​

The discussion also included steps for post-rain cleanup, such as checking equipment for corrosion, emptying standing water and drying off tools and saturated personal protective equipment.​

Fuller Industries conducts monthly Toolbox Talks to maintain a proactive safety culture and ensure all employees are regularly trained on hazard prevention.

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760234198917.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Fuller Industries Inc. emphasized the importance of safety during wet conditions as the focus of its October “Toolbox Talk,” an initiative designed to reinforce crucial workplace safety practices.​The topic, “Working Safely in the Rain,” addressed the common hazards associated with wet environments, including slips, reduced visibility and electrical risks, for both indoor and outdoor employees.​Bree Husted, environmental health and safety assistant for the Great Bend-based commercial cleaning product maker, underscored the necessity of remaining vigilant despite the seemingly harmless nature of rain.​“Rain may seem harmless, but it can quickly turn a normal workday into a safety hazard,” Husted said. “Wet conditions can cause slips, trips, and falls, reduce visibility and affect the way equipment and chemicals react. Whether you work indoors with open dock doors or outdoors around vehicles and machinery, rain safety should always be a top priority.”​The talk covered several key hazards, including slippery surfaces indoors from tracked-in water, reduced visibility from dark clouds or heavy rain, and the risk of chemical reactions if water contacts certain substances. Electrical hazards were also highlighted, with a reminder to keep cords, tools and outlets dry.​Fuller Industries employees were reminded of safe work practices, including:<ul>
 <li>​Wearing proper slip-resistant, waterproof footwear.</li><li>​Slowing down and using caution when walking on wet surfaces.</li><li>​Using absorbent mats and wet floor signs near entrances.</li><li>​Wearing high-visibility clothing when outdoors or in low light.</li><li>​Reporting wet floors, leaks or water hazards immediately.</li>
 </ul>​“Safety doesn’t stop just because it’s raining — it starts with awareness, preparation, and teamwork,” Husted added. “A few extra minutes of caution can prevent hours of downtime or injury.”​The discussion also included steps for post-rain cleanup, such as checking equipment for corrosion, emptying standing water and drying off tools and saturated personal protective equipment.​Fuller Industries conducts monthly Toolbox Talks to maintain a proactive safety culture and ensure all employees are regularly trained on hazard prevention.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.

Here comes the rain: Wet conditions can present workplace hazards

As
of Tuesday, October 7th, the drought monitor report indicates little change
from last week. The state is at 81% totally out of dry conditions.&nbsp; The only abnormally dry, moderate drought
parts of Kansas are North Central along the Nebraska and Eastern Kansas along
the Missouri Border which are worsening a tad.&nbsp;
The six-to ten-day outlook (October 14 to 18) indicates a 70 to 80%
chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of
leaning above normal for precipitation.&nbsp;
The eight to fourteen-day outlook (October 16 to 22) indicates a 50 to 60%
chance of likely above normal for temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of leaning
above normal for precipitation.&nbsp;
Hopefully the precipitation happens as these warm temperatures while
great for harvest are not for keeping soil moisture for winter wheat.&nbsp; These conditions should allow for good tiller
and root system establishment.&nbsp; 

Lately,
the agriculture extension agents for our Cottonwood District have been
featuring problem weeds in crop fields and pasture.&nbsp; These articles describe the weed, its growth
and reproductive characteristics, and control options.&nbsp; Most of us, producers and nonproducers alike,
think of chemical control.&nbsp; While
certainly an important tool in the pest control arsenal, good pest control
(insects, diseases, and weeds) practiced by good producers is more
complicated.&nbsp; The term is Integrated Pest
Management or IPM.&nbsp; So, what is IPM?

After
WWII, there emerged a promising new technology for pest control, initially for
insect control.&nbsp; During WWII, DDT was
developed primarily for mosquito control for troops fighting in the South
Pacific as troop incapacitation from malaria were as significant as losses from
combat.&nbsp; And later in the war for
typhus.&nbsp; Immediately after the war, its
use was promoted for agricultural and public use. The promise was for a world
free of insect pests and the damage/illnesses they spread.&nbsp; Atrazine (triazine based herbicides, one of
the first herbicides was developed by Geigy Labs.&nbsp; The first synthetic fungicides date back to
the 1930s.&nbsp; Initially, the promise was
for a pest free world made possible through chemistry.&nbsp; Back then Dupont’s motto was “Better living
through chemistry.”&nbsp; For DDT by the late
1950s/early 1960s and Atrazine by the end of the 1960s, problems were
apparent.&nbsp; From the loss of beneficial
insects to pest resistance to the chemistries combined with health concerns for
people; a creeping awareness led to IPM.&nbsp;
It was apparent that environmental damage and human health, combined
with decreased effectiveness caused researchers to reevaluate pest control. 

<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 7th, the drought monitor report indicates little change
from last week. The state is at 81% totally out of dry conditions.&nbsp; The only abnormally dry, moderate drought
parts of Kansas are North Central along the Nebraska and Eastern Kansas along
the Missouri Border which are worsening a tad.&nbsp;
The six-to ten-day outlook (October 14 to 18) indicates a 70 to 80%
chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of
leaning above normal for precipitation.&nbsp;
The eight to fourteen-day outlook (October 16 to 22) indicates a 50 to 60%
chance of likely above normal for temperatures and 33 to 40% chance of leaning
above normal for precipitation.&nbsp;
Hopefully the precipitation happens as these warm temperatures while
great for harvest are not for keeping soil moisture for winter wheat.&nbsp; These conditions should allow for good tiller
and root system establishment.&nbsp; Lately,
the agriculture extension agents for our Cottonwood District have been
featuring problem weeds in crop fields and pasture.&nbsp; These articles describe the weed, its growth
and reproductive characteristics, and control options.&nbsp; Most of us, producers and nonproducers alike,
think of chemical control.&nbsp; While
certainly an important tool in the pest control arsenal, good pest control
(insects, diseases, and weeds) practiced by good producers is more
complicated.&nbsp; The term is Integrated Pest
Management or IPM.&nbsp; So, what is IPM?After
WWII, there emerged a promising new technology for pest control, initially for
insect control.&nbsp; During WWII, DDT was
developed primarily for mosquito control for troops fighting in the South
Pacific as troop incapacitation from malaria were as significant as losses from
combat.&nbsp; And later in the war for
typhus.&nbsp; Immediately after the war, its
use was promoted for agricultural and public use. The promise was for a world
free of insect pests and the damage/illnesses they spread.&nbsp; Atrazine (triazine based herbicides, one of
the first herbicides was developed by Geigy Labs.&nbsp; The first synthetic fungicides date back to
the 1930s.&nbsp; Initially, the promise was
for a pest free world made possible through chemistry.&nbsp; Back then Dupont’s motto was “Better living
through chemistry.”&nbsp; For DDT by the late
1950s/early 1960s and Atrazine by the end of the 1960s, problems were
apparent.&nbsp; From the loss of beneficial
insects to pest resistance to the chemistries combined with health concerns for
people; a creeping awareness led to IPM.&nbsp;
It was apparent that environmental damage and human health, combined
with decreased effectiveness caused researchers to reevaluate pest control.

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

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting residents of Great Bend and surrounding areas to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Great Bend on Sunday, October 19 at Jack Kilby Square. The venue opens at 10 a.m., and the opening ceremony will begin at 10:45 a.m., followed by the walk.

“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that can change the course of the disease,” said Fe&nbsp;Vorderlandwehr, Executive Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Central and Western Kansas Chapter. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer's Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally ending this disease.”

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Kansas, there are more than 54,000 people living with the disease and 90,000 caregivers.&nbsp;

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://act.alz.org/greatbend">act.alz.org/greatbend</a>.

Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s&nbsp;is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.&nbsp; Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alzheimer's Association® The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit<a target="_blank" href="http://www.alz.org/">&nbsp;alz.org</a>&nbsp;or call 800.272.3900.&nbsp;

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting residents of Great Bend and surrounding areas to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Great Bend on Sunday, October 19 at Jack Kilby Square. The venue opens at 10 a.m., and the opening ceremony will begin at 10:45 a.m., followed by the walk.“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that can change the course of the disease,” said Fe&nbsp;Vorderlandwehr, Executive Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Central and Western Kansas Chapter. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer's Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally ending this disease.”On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Kansas, there are more than 54,000 people living with the disease and 90,000 caregivers.&nbsp;To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://act.alz.org/greatbend">act.alz.org/greatbend</a>.Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s&nbsp;is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.&nbsp; Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alzheimer's Association® The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit<a target="_blank" href="http://www.alz.org/">&nbsp;alz.org</a>&nbsp;or call 800.272.3900.&nbsp;

Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's set for Oct. 19 in Great Bend

A special exhibit, Life in the Trenches, from the Smoky Hill Museum will be on display at the McCracken Public Library during the month of November. Hours to view exhibit are 2-6 p.m. on Mondays, noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Thursdays, or by appointment. The exhibit explores the human face of World War I and the miserable nature of trench warfare.

WWI is known as the Great War and the 'war to end all wars.' America joined the fray in 1917. Out of more than two million Americans who served in WWI, more than 80,000 were from Kansas. This unique exhibit focuses on the harrowing experiences of Kansas soldiers by using vivid, first-hand accounts of their ordeals, trials, and tribulations. Visitors learn the reasoning behind using trenches in the war, what the trenches looked like, and what life was like in those trenches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760233796805.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A special exhibit, Life in the Trenches, from the Smoky Hill Museum will be on display at the McCracken Public Library during the month of November. Hours to view exhibit are 2-6 p.m. on Mondays, noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Thursdays, or by appointment. The exhibit explores the human face of World War I and the miserable nature of trench warfare.WWI is known as the Great War and the 'war to end all wars.' America joined the fray in 1917. Out of more than two million Americans who served in WWI, more than 80,000 were from Kansas. This unique exhibit focuses on the harrowing experiences of Kansas soldiers by using vivid, first-hand accounts of their ordeals, trials, and tribulations. Visitors learn the reasoning behind using trenches in the war, what the trenches looked like, and what life was like in those trenches.