By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
GBRC board extends Hendersons contract
$76,000 computer upgrades first of two phases
new slt gbrc mug Henderson


The Great Bend Recreation Commission board on Monday extended GBRC Director Diann Henderson’s contract by three years, to June 30, 2019.
The action followed 20 minutes of discussion in an executive session which Henderson attended. The board also approved a 5 percent cost of living raise wage increase for Henderson, effective July 1, 2013.
Monday was the last meeting for board member Bruce Hofeling, who received a plaque in appreciation for his eight years of service. Board members are appointed and limited to two terms; Hofeling’s second term ends Dec. 31.
In other action, the board approved computer purchases totaling more than $76,000. Based on specifications previously authorized by the board, the low bids were approved for $31,373 in hardware upgrades and $45,117 for software, support and installation. Henderson said she had budgeted $35,000 for hardware and $50,000 for the software. Bids were awarded to ISG Technology, Cisco, Hewlett Packard, Microsoft, Quadis/Summit Technologies and Vermont Systems.
Upgrading the system takes it from 32-bit to 64-bit software and allows GBRC to have the same desktop publishing software used at the Great Bend Tribune, Henderson said. This is the first of two planned software purchases. After the Phase I upgrade, Phase II will allow GBRC to offer new services, including online registration for programs and online facility reservations. “It’s just another step of doing the 24/7 online service,” Henderson said.
This increase in electronic service also prompted the board to make some changes to the bylaws, to allow for electronic payments and receipts.
“In 1982 is when a lot of these bylaws were created, and they have not been updated,” Henderson said. Proposed changes to the bylaws received a first reading Monday, and may be approved at the January meeting. The changes would also allow board members to receive electronic notice of upcoming meetings, instead of receiving information through the mail.
In other business, Chris Umphres, sports coordinator, said the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association will offer a job fair on Jan. 28 during the state convention at Manhattan, and he will be looking for summer interns.

Holiday programs
Leisure Programs Coordinator Garet Fitzpatrick told the board that the program date for “Christmas Entertaining Meals” at the Recreation Center, 1214 Stone St., has been changed from Dec. 5 to Dec. 19, and that reservations will be accepted until Friday, Dec. 14. Cost is $9 for a catered meal and music by Great Bend Middle School’s Women in Harmony group. The meal starts at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 19, with music from 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Program Coordinator Megan Hammeke said the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Ave., will host “Christmas on a Budget” at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14. Barton County Extension Agent Donna Krug has ideas for gifts that can be made, often with items already in the home.
Hammeke is also coordinator for special needs programs. Holiday programs include crafts and cooking, the annual Christmas dance from 7-9 p.m. this Friday at the Activity Center, and Winter Game Night on Dec. 20, also at the Activity Center, 2715 18th St.