By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The Great Bend City Council is ready to get its feet wet. A pair of agenda items for next Monday's meeting involves the approval of a final design of a new swimming pool at Brit Spaugh Park, and the approval of a design contract. If approved, the city could move forward on the $9.3 million project, which is expected to be completed by the end of May 2027.

The city currently has a 0.15 percent quality of life sales tax, and a new pool was one of the top priorities identified to use the funds. Last year, the tax raised just under $730,000, and the city conservatively budgets $715,000 annually. The estimated annual bond payment for the pool would be approximately $566,000 over 20 years, with interest rates that vary from year to year.

In October, the city released the first renderings of a new pool. A pool committee has met four times to discuss design changes, and a final rendering will be voted on Monday night. The existing feature slides and shallow water area on the northeast side of the pool will remain, and will need to be gel-coated and re-painted. 

The proposed pool is 11,047 square feet, which is slightly smaller than the current 11,992 square-foot pool. The final design includes a 215-foot-long lazy river, one-meter and three-meter diving boards, a 34-foot-tall fly-time slide, a 31-foot-tall open-body slide, a basketball goal, a climbing wall, and eight swimming lanes. The design also includes American Disability Act slides, spray features and multiple shade areas positioned around the pool.

Along with approving a final design of the pool, the council will also vote on a design contract with JEO. 

Before the council votes on the contract with JEO, it must authorize publication and initiation of the notice and protest periods for a general obligation bond to fund the project. After notice, a 30-day protest period would go into effect. If at least five percent of electors who voted in the most recent general election file a valid protest petition, it could delay or prevent the issuance of bonds for the project.

Great Bend City Council to vote on final pool design during next Monday's meeting

Join our broadcast crew as a Part-Time Sports Videographer for Hoisington and Great Bend High school basketball games. You’ll play a key role in our live game footage that keeps fans connected from anywhere. This is an ideal position for someone who is looking to work anywhere from 10-20 hours per week during basketball season especially. Transportation to all away games will be provided. Everyone is encouraged to apply especially high school (minimum age requirement is 16) or college kids. See the full job listing and apply by clicking on the position below.

<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;jobId=564755&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4">Part-Time Sports Videographer</a>

Wild Great Bend Chase: Driver Hits 70 MPH, Loses a Wheel, Rolls Car Before Arrest

It’s been a busy week of holiday service for the Great Bend Police Department (GBPD), which hosted its annual “Shop with a Cop” event on Wednesday.

Sixty-seven children in the community came out to Walmart Wednesday afternoon to receive an early holiday present, 17 more than in previous years, thanks to the generosity of supporters.

"The Great Bend Police Department, together with the Great Bend Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #23, is honored to support the Shop with a Cop program year after year,” said Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark. “This event provides a meaningful opportunity for officers to connect with local children and bring holiday joy to families who may be facing challenges. We extend our sincere appreciation to the community partners and donors whose continued support ensures this program remains a bright spot in our community."

In partnership with the Great Bend Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #23, GBPD hosted two shopping sessions at Walmart starting at 4 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. Each child was handed a $75 Walmart gift card and was paired with a police officer to select toys of their choice. In addition, the GBPD provided families with food boxes, including a turkey, for enough to fix a meal up to 10 people.

Last Saturday, workers from Project Clean Sweep played an essential role by preparing the food boxes that were distributed to the families. Project Clean Sweep is a collaborative initiative between the police department and the municipal court that allows individuals to complete community service as an alternative to paying fines.

Forty-five grocery boxes were handed out at “Shop with a Cop”. Leftover boxes will be donated, with one each going to the local boys’ and girls’ homes, as well as two to the Family Crisis Center. Four remaining $75 gift cards will be given to children in shelters. 

On Tuesday, Dec. 9, Community Engagement Officer Gary Davis invited the public to take a Christmas-themed photo at the police station, drawing in 24 children. Stg. Davis handed out candy and posed for pictures in front of a GBPD Christmas Tree, adorned with blue tinsel, black and white ornaments with a GBPD hat as the tree-topper. 

For those interested in a chance to take their own photo with Stg. Davis, please contact the police department at 620-793-4120.

GBPD connects community with holidays outreach events

BARTON COUNTY—A Kansas man is facing multiple allegations after a wild chase across Great Bend.

Just after 10:30p.m. Thursday&nbsp;a deputy with the Barton County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a 1992 Oldsmobile passenger car in the 1500 block of Morphy in the city of Great Bend, according to a media release.

The vehicle had been observed speeding and running stop signs. When the deputy activated their emergency equipment, the vehicle shut off its headlights and attempted to flee from the officer. 

Near the intersection of 18th and Hubbard, a deputy sheriff attempted to stop the vehicle by means of legal intervention, the vehicle spun out but was able to regain control and continued to flee. 

At least two more attempts at lawful invention were made without success. The vehicle was reaching speeds in excess of 70 miles an hour, blacked out, never leaving the city of Great Bend. 

 Sheriff’s deputies were authorized to use whatever force necessary to stop the vehicle due to the danger to the public. The driver zigzagged across the city of Great Bend several times and at one point nearly struck the Great Bend police officer who was attempting to deploy stop sticks. 

Near the intersection of 18th and Baker, lawful intervention was attempted by a deputy and the vehicle again spun out, this time losing the right rear tire, wheel, and hub assembly. 

 Despite only having three wheels on the vehicle, the vehicle continued to flee southbound on Kansas Street and attempted to get back on Main Street at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Main. 

The driver struck a fire hydrant at that intersection causing the vehicle rollover one time into a building on the west side of Main Street. 

The driver, later identified as 34-year-old Trenton Berens of Russell was removed from the vehicle and taken into custody.&nbsp; Great Bend Fire and EMS were called to evaluate Berens, and it was found he had no serious injuries. 

During the chase the vehicle traveled through numerous yards and striking stop signs and property as he fled.

  The Sheriff’s office K9 Rem alerted to the presence of controlled substances in the vehicle while at the scene.

&nbsp;Berens was booked into the Barton County jail on requested charges of felony flee and elude, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer,  aggravated assault (non-LEO), driving while suspended, numerous charges of criminal damage to property, as well as approximately 14 other traffic violations.

 Berens also had an outstanding warrant from Russell County for violation of a stalking order. Berens has previous history of fleeing from law enforcement officers and given the disregard for the safety of others, the Barton County Attorney was contacted, and the Sheriff’s Office requested a higher bond be set. A District Court Judge authorized a bond in the amount of $250,000.

At least two Barton County Sheriff’s office patrol cars received moderate damage during the pursuit. The Sheriff’s office was assisted by the Great Bend Police Department as well as Great Bend fire and EMS.

Man jailed after car chase on 3-wheels in Great Bend

The competition does not often play for the same team. But six Great Bend Mexican restaurants are joining forces to help Eisenhower Elementary sixth grader Enrique Lira, 11, who was diagnosed with leukemia in July. Ivan Briseno, owner of Sabores de Mexico, came up with the idea, and the other restaurants joined for a fundraiser to be held at the Best Western Angus Inn, 2920 10th Street in Great Bend, on Monday, Dec. 15.

"I know we might be competition against each other, but we need to leave that behind and know this is for a good cause, and know it's okay to come together and be united and be stronger for one another," Briseno said.

The event begins at 6 p.m. and will continue until sold out. For a $20 donation, attendees get their choice of al pastor or carne asada tacos with a side of rice and beans, and aquas frescas to drink. T-shirts with a logo provided by Enrique's mother will also be available for purchase, and sponsorships are available for the back of those shirts. Additional servings will be available for another donation.

"We would love for all of the community to be a part of this to help a family in need during critical times," Briseno said.

Alongside Sabores de Mexico, restaurants participating include Mary's Kitchen, Tacos Los Primos, La Nana, AdryAna's Mexican Food, and Los Cabos.

Those wishing to pre-order a t-shirt or donate can contact Briseno at (620) 617-3041.

Great Bend's Mexican restaurants join forces to raise funds for family battling leukemia

Released Martinez, Reynaldo to Kansas Department of Corrections.

Released Flagg, Sean D. on Barton County District Court case #BT2025CR0397 for Possession of opiate, Possession with intent to use Drug Paraphernalia, Driving while suspended, Improper stop lamp or turn signal, One-way glass or sun screen device: windshield by receiving a $10,000.00 O.R Bond.

Booked in Balderrama, Gaberiel A. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0480 for Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, Failure to Yield at stop sign, or yield sign, Basic rule governing speed of vehicles, Driving without lighted lamps. Bond set at $5,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Davidson, Amber N. Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500383 for Contempt of Court. Released by Order of the Court.

Released Balderrama, Gabriel A. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0480 for Flee or attempt to elude, Flee or attempt to elude, Failure to yield at stop or yield sign, Basic rule governing speed of vehicles, driving without headlights when needed. By posting a $5,000.00 Surety through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Payne, Mckinley K. on Barton County District Court cases #BT2025CR0029, #BT2024fR0709, #BT2022CR0144. Returned for Court Appearance, bond set at NO BOND.

Booked Hamilton, Nathan E on Barton County District Court Warrant #BT2025CR0269 for Serve Sentence with No Bond.

Booked in Juvenile on Ford County District Court warrant #2025CR0514 for Failure to Appear with bond set $10,000.00 cash or surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (12/11)

Friday Sunny, with a high near 46. North northeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. East northeast wind 6 to 8 mph becoming southeast after midnight.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 39. Southeast wind 8 to 14 mph becoming north northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 12. North northeast wind 5 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 31. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 21.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Friday's weather

Thurs. Dec. 11th Game 9: Nickerson 24 Plainville 55 Game 11: Hoisington 70 Kinsley 28

Fri. Dec. 12th Game 13: St. John vs Holcomb @ 5:00pm @ LHS *Game 15: Bucklin vs Larned @ 5:30pm @ LMS *Listen Live on Hits 106.9

Sat. Dec 13th Game 17: 7th Place - Kinsley vs Nickerson @ 12:00pm @ LHS *Game 19: 5th Place - Hoisington vs Plainville @ 3:30pm @ LHS *Listen Live on 100.7 Eagle Country Game 21: 3rd Place - Losers of Game 13 &amp; 15 @ 12:30pm @ LMS Game 23: Championship - Winners of Game 13 &amp; 15 @ 4:00pm @ LMS

Game 10: Bucklin 42 Kinsley 56 Game 12: Nickerson 77 Plainville 80 (New Tournament Record for total combined points in a game. Previous record was 145 points.)

Fri. Dec. 12th Game 14: St. John vs Holcomb @ 6:30pm @ LHS *Game 16: Hoisington vs Larned @ 7:00pm @ LMS &nbsp;*Listen Live on 100.7 Eagle Country for the Hoisington perspective &amp; Hits 106.9 for the Larned perspective.

Sat. Dec. 13th Game 18: 7th Place - Bucklin vs Nickerson @ 1:45pm @ LHS&nbsp; Game 20: 5th Place - Kinsley vs Plainville @ 5:15pm @ LHS Game 22: 3rd Place - Losers of Game 14 &amp; 16 @ 2:15pm @ LMS Game 24: Championship - Winners of Game 14 &amp; 16 @ 5:45pm @ LMS

Keady Classic Bracket Update: Thursday Results, Friday & Saturday Schedule 

KIOWA COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 GMC Yukon driven by Dario&nbsp; Flores, 57, Ulysses, was eastbound on U.S. 54 at Cottonwood Street.&nbsp; The SUV struck a westbound 2025 Hyundai Tucson driven by Stephen R.&nbsp;Oneill, 44, Lawrence, who turned&nbsp; south into the path of the Yukon.

EMS transported Flories and a passenger Silvestre M.&nbsp; Flores, 85, Ulysses, to the&nbsp;Kiowa County Memorial Hospital. Oneill was not injured.&nbsp; Flores, Silvestre M. Flores was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

2 Kansas men hospitalized after SUVs collide

The city of Great Bend announced that the temporary water conservation measures at the Great Bend Airport Industrial Complex have been lifted. Repairs to the pump servicing the industrial-area system have been successfully completed and full operating capacity has been restored.

Throughout the conservation period, businesses in the industrial complex played an essential role in maintaining adequate pressure and flow. By following the conservation request, users helped stabilize the system and ensured that essential operations could continue without interruption.

This issue was isolated to the Airport Industrial Complex and did not affect the City of Great Bend’s municipal water supply or residential service at any time. With repairs complete, businesses may now resume normal water usage.

“We appreciate the cooperation and patience shown by the businesses in the industrial complex while our crews and contractors worked to restore service,” said Director of Public Utilities Darren Doonan. “Their efforts in reducing non-essential water use helped us maintain reliable pressure while repairs were underway. The system is now performing as intended, and no further conservation measures are needed at this time.”

For additional information, please contact the Public Utilities Department at 620-793-4170.

Water Conservation Request Lifted for the Great Bend Airport Industrial Complex 

$20K Christmas Cash Giveaway Official Rules

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

$20K Christmas Cash Giveaway

Now is the time to recognize those who go above and beyond! You can nominate a School Hero! On the fourth Tuesday of each month, Eagle Media will select a Hero to recognize! The winner will also receive $500! Nominate a School Hero is presented by: <a href="https://opikan.com/">OPI</a> (Office Products Incorporated) &amp; Golden Belt Printing.&nbsp;

Any adult who works at a school in Barton County is eligible to be nominated. Admin, Teachers, Para's, Coaches, Maintenance, Cafeteria, etc.

Nominate a School Hero! Presented by: OPI & Golden Belt Printing

Big Bend Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medial Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrants Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response

Make a Difference Contest 

HOISINGTON SPORTS ON 100.7 EAGLE COUNTRY SPONSORED BY... EQUITY BANK, USD #431 HOISINGTON, EHLER CHEVROLET, CARDINAL PHARMACY, TOWN &amp; COUNTRY SUPERMARKET, SUPERIOR ESSEX, FIRST KANSAS BANK, INNOVATIVE LIVESTOCK SERVICES, MPIRE REALTY NIKKI HENDERSON, CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CENTER, HOISINGTON VETERINARY HOSPITAL, HOISINGTON HIGH SCHOOL BOOSTER CLUB, AMERICAN LEGION POST 286, ROSENBERG FAMILY DENISTRY, HOISINGTON RECREATION COMMISSION, CENTRAL CHIROPRACTIC, DR. TYLER SCHREMMER, AND BARTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

Hoisington Boys 53 Larned 43

Hoisington Boys 53 Larned 43; Larned Girl 45 Bucklin 43

LARNED SPORTS ON HITS 106.9 BROUGHT TO YOU IN PART BY... EQUITY BANK, INNOVATIVE LIVESTOCK SERVICES, SMITH DENTAL CLINIC, CLOCK REALTY &amp; INSURANCE, ROSENBERG FAMILY DENTISTRY, PROGRESSIVE THERAPY &amp; SPORTS MEDICINE, DOERR'S ACE HARDWARE, FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES - LEIGH ANN SEEMAN, PAWNEE PLAZA, HEART OF KANSAS FAMILY HEALTH, COMFORT PRO, EAKIN ENTERPRISES, FRICK VETERINARY, USD #495 LARNED, CARR AUCTION &amp; REAL ESTATE, AG SYSTEMS, FUSION BANK, PICKET FENCE REAL ESTATE, AND BARTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

Fri. Dec. 12th Game 13: St. John 31 Holcomb 43&nbsp; Game 15: Bucklin 43 Larned 45 IN OT

Sat. Dec 13th Game 17: 7th Place - Kinsley vs Nickerson @ 12:00pm @ LHS *Game 19: 5th Place - Hoisington vs Plainville @ 3:30pm @ LHS *Listen Live on 100.7 Eagle Country Game 21: 3rd Place - Bucklin vs St. John @ 12:30pm @ LMS *Game 23: Championship - Larned vs Holcomb @ 4:00pm @ LMS *Listen Live on Hits 106.9

Fri. Dec. 12th Game 14: St. John 52 Holcomb 84 Game 16: Hoisington 53 Larned 43

Sat. Dec. 13th Game 18: 7th Place - Bucklin vs Nickerson @ 1:45pm @ LHS&nbsp; Game 20: 5th Place - Kinsley vs Plainville @ 5:15pm @ LHS *Game 22: 3rd Place - Larned vs St. John @ 2:15pm @ LMS *Listen Live on Hits 106.9 *Game 24: Championship - Hoisington vs Holcomb @ 5:45pm @ LMS *Listen Live on 100.7 Eagle Country

Keady Classic Bracket Update: Friday Results, Saturday Schedule 

Great Bend Boys 78 Haven 44; Haven Girls 59 Great Bend 34

GREAT BEND SPORTS ON B104.3 THE POINT SPONSORED BY... GB TARP COMPANY, ADVANCE TRUCK &amp; DIESEL, KELLER REAL ESTATE &amp; INSURANCE, EQUITY BANK, INNOVATIVE LIVESTOCK SERVICES, THE FIELDHOUSE, MARMIE AUTO GROUP, MAGNA DRY CLEANING SERVICES, FREEDOM CLAIMS MANAGEMENT, GREAT BEND REC, ROSENBERG FAMILY DENTISTRY, CHRIS RAMSEY SHELTER INSURANCE, MITCH HANEY &amp; ASSOCIATES, FARMER'S BANK &amp; TRUST, SCOTT'S WELDING SERVICE, PEOPLE'S BANK &amp; TRUST, KERNS FLOOR SERVICE, NEX-TECH, COMFORT PRO, THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS HEATH SYSTEM - GREAT BEND CAMPUS, SUTHERLANDS, AND THE 10TH STREEET EYECARE CENTER. STONE SAND COMPANY AND STONE WASTE MANAGEMENT, ADVANCED THERAPY &amp; SPORTS MEDICINE, DAMM PIPE TESTING, GREAT BEND REDI MIX, INSURANCE PLANNING, EDWARD JONES, DELGADOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT, MPIRE REALTY, AMERICAN PLAINS COOP, AND CODY CROOK RED CEDAR LAND COMPANY. GB TIRES, THE ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER, BARTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE, DR CHAD OHNMACHT DDS, AND WATKINS CALCARA CHARTERED.

By Dr. Karissa Niehoff NFHS

The busiest and most impactful people in our nation’s schools? A strong case could be made that athletic directors are the ones who keep the engines running in our nation’s schools – particularly for the more than 8.2 million participants in high school sports. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starting Friday, about 2,500 leaders of high school and middle school athletic programs will make their way to the Tampa Convention Center in Florida for the 56th&nbsp;annual National Athletic Directors Conference co-sponsored by the NFHS and the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).

Their mission? Professional development is at the top of the list for most meeting attendees. High school athletic directors are entrusted with key leadership roles, and continuing their education helps to provide a safe and fun experience for student-athletes in their schools.

Attendees at this year’s conference have signed up for almost 1,900 Leadership Training Institute courses sponsored by the NIAAA. The 59-course topics address legal issues, as well as marketing and promotion, technology, sports medicine, mental health, hiring and mentoring coaches, emergency management, managing athletic fields and equipment, building positive culture and many more.

In addition to leadership training opportunities, 48 workshops will be offered in six sessions during the five-day conference. While there are a few workshops on topics that are making national news headlines, such as NIL Impact on High School Athletics, most of the sessions focus on ways that athletic directors can continue to emphasize the education-based nature of high school sports and other activities.

Our nation’s athletic directors are aligned with state high school associations to keep high school sports educationally focused. Athletic directors in our nation’s schools want to protect opportunities for other students, promote school and team unity, and maintain the community-based nature of high school sports.

In line with this philosophy, following are some of the workshop topics at this year’s conference: Developing and Implementing Effective Emergency Action Plans, Proactive Strategies for Partnering with Parents, Title IX Updates and Best Practices, Aligning Middle and High School Athletic Programs, Mental Health and Wellness, How to Celebrate Success of Student-Athletes/Teams/Coaches, Getting Back to the Basics of Education-based Athletics for Parents, Competing with Character: Sportsmanship in Interscholastic Athletics, among many others.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The NFHS and our member state associations, along with the NIAAA, are focused on keeping high school sports unique, and the nation’s high school athletic directors are the key individuals in our schools to maintain the educational focus. With youth leagues and travel teams geared toward specialization and winning, and college sports now driven by money and success, there is a push by some for high school sports to “be like the others.”&nbsp;

There’s a reason that participation in high school sports continues to rise every year – and for the overwhelming majority it has nothing to do with NIL or transferring to another school to join a winning program. As a result, the National Athletic Directors Conference continues to focus on the educational aspects of sports and other activities in our nation’s schools – because the main reason most students are involved in school activities is to participate with their friends and be part of the school’s team in the community where they live.&nbsp;&nbsp;

High school athletic directors work long hours and are not in the limelight, but they are the heart and soul of education-based programs. We salute these individuals and encourage school administrators and school boards to support athletic directors in their schools.

The success of organized sports in an education-based setting in our nation’s schools for more than 100 years has been due in large part to these individuals. Local schools depend on athletic administrators to lead their programs, our member state high school associations depend on these individuals, and the NFHS and NIAAA look to athletic directors for leadership at the national level.

Collectively and collaboratively, we can meet the challenges ahead to protect and promote education-based sports and activities.

Athletic Directors to Continue Focus on Education-based Programs

- Nathan Broekleman, head coach of Barton CC Wrestling

- Garrett Fitzpatrick of the Great Bend Rec

- Conor Nicholl of Sunflower Sports Solutions

Friday on Sports Day(Watch)

Panther Sports Powered by:&nbsp;Equity Bank. Sponsored in part by:&nbsp;GB Tarp Company, Advance Truck &amp; Diesel, Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, Innovative Livestock Services, The Fieldhouse, Marmie Auto Group, Magna Dry Cleaning Services, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Rec, Rosenberg Family Dentistry, Chris Ramsey - Shelter Insurance, Mitch Haney &amp; Associates, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, Scott's Welding Service, Kern Floor Service, Nex-Tech, Comfort Pro, The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, People's Bank &amp; Trust, Sutherlands, The 10th Street Eyecare Center, Stone Sand Company and Stone Waste Management, Advanced Therapy &amp; Sports Medicine, Damm Pipe Testing, Great Bend Redi Mix, Insurance Planning, Edward Jones, Delgado's Mexican Restaurant, Mpire Realty, American Plains Coop, Cody Crook - Red Cedar Land Company, GB Tires, Animal Medical Center, Barton Community College, Dr. Chad Ohnmacht DDS, &amp; Watkins Calcara Chartered.

Additional Information: Great Bend Panther fans have a new way to follow their teams this year.&nbsp; The service features a live video stream of every home and away game, complete with the familiar B1043 The Point radio play-by-play patched in. Fans will be able to watch the action live from anywhere or go back and re-watch games at their convenience.

Cost: Fans may purchase access for $10 per game or buy a $100 season pass for the entire school year. A portion of the proceeds from the video stream will be donated back to USD 428, helping support Panther students and programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eagle Media says the new platform provides a full, immersive experience for those who can’t make it to the stands, while keeping the local broadcast tradition alive and strong.

Part-time Job Opportunities: Eagle Media is also searching for Part-time positions to help with the video broadcasts for both Great Bend and Hoisington High School. Applicants must be 16 years old or older. To find out more about these opportunities you can view the Videographer position&nbsp;<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;jobId=564002&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4">here</a>.

WATCH: GBHS Basketball vs Haven @ Kingman Classic

Friday, December 12 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 2:45PM B104 - Kingman Eagle Classic - Great Bend Girls vs Haven 4:30PM B104 - Kingman Eagle Classic - Great Bend Boys vs Haven 7:00PM KHOK &amp; Hits 106.9 - Hoisington B vs. Larned B @ Keady Classic 5:30PM Hits 106.9 - Larned G vs. Bucklin @ Keady Classic

Saturday, December 13 TBA 1590/95.5FM - Great Bend G&amp;B @ Kingman Eagle Classic TBA Hits 106.9 - Larned G&amp;B @ Keady Classic TBA KHOK - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Keady Classic 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Garden City M&amp;W @ Barton 4:00PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ N.C. State

Sunday, December 14 11:30AM B104 - Chiefs Football - LA Chargers @ Kansas City 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NFL Football - TBA

Monday, December 15 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day

Tuesday, December 16 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104 - H.S. Basketball - Great Bend G&amp;B @ Emporia 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ St. John 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Sterling 6:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Jayhawk Basketball - Townson @ Kansas

Wednesday, December 17 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day

Friday Dec 19&nbsp; 5:45PM Hits 106.9– H.S. Basketball Larned G&amp;B @ Kingman&nbsp; 5:45PM B104.3&nbsp; -&nbsp;GBHS&nbsp;G&amp;B vs. Pratt

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

Outfielder Lane Thomas and the Kansas City Royals have agreed to a $5.25 million, one-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday because the agreement, first reported by The Athletic, was subject to a successful physical.

Thomas can earn an additional $1 million in performance bonuses.

He had nine RBIs for Cleveland in the 2024 AL Division Series against Detroit but hit .160 with four homers and 11 RBIs in 125 at-bats over 39 games this year in an injury-decimated season with Cleveland. He batted .268 for Washington in 2023, when he set career bests with 28 homers, 86 RBIs and 20 stolen bases.

Thomas didn't play between April 8 and 15 this year because of a bone bruise in his right wrist sustained when&nbsp;hit by a pitch from Shane Smith of the Chicago White Sox&nbsp;and&nbsp;between April 19 and May 22 because of the same injury. He was out&nbsp;between May 26 and June 9 due to plantar fasciitis in his right foot.

He played his last big league game of the season on July 4, then was&nbsp;sidelined again because of the foot injury, though he did appear in three Double-A games from Sept. 2-5 as part of an injury rehabilitation assignment. He has surgery on Sept. 23,

A year earlier, he hit a tiebreaking grand slam off Detroit ace Tarik Skubal in Game 5 on an AL Wild Card Series.

Thomas had a $7,825,000 salary in a one-year contract that avoided salary arbitration. He became a free agent last month.

Now 30, Thomas has a .242 average with 65 homers and 254 RBIs in seven seasons with St. Louis (2019-21), Washington (2021-24) and the Guardians, who&nbsp;acquired him from the Nationals ahead of the 2024 trade deadline&nbsp;for infielder José Tena, left-hander Alex Clemmey and infielder Rafael Ramirez Jr.

Outfielder Lane Thomas agrees to $5.25 million, 1-year deal with Royals, AP source says

The accolades continued Thursday for&nbsp;Stasa Stamenkovic&nbsp;of the Barton Community College volleyball team, as the freshman was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Two-Year College Volleyball All-America Second Team.

Earlier this week, Stamenkovic earned NJCAA Division I Volleyball All-America First Team honors, adding to a decorated postseason resume that also included KJCCC/Region 6 Freshman of the Year recognition.

While the NJCAA All-America list recognizes only Division I athletes, the AVCA Two-Year College team spans all levels of two-year volleyball, with just forty-five selections across NJCAA Divisions I, II, and III, the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A), and the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC).

Stamenkovic's AVCA selection marks the program's third consecutive year with national recognition from the association, joining Phoebe Reyes' back-to-back honors in 2023 and 2024.

The decorated freshman helped lead Barton through a dominant stretch run, closing the regular season on a ten-match winning streak to secure the program's third straight KJCCC title, followed by a second consecutive Region 6/Plains District championship and the Cougars' 25th NJCAA Division I National Tournament appearance. Barton capped the season at 31–7 with a final No. 5 national ranking.

Earlier this fall, Stamenkovic also became the program's 25th NJCAA All-America First Team recipient, the fourth in the last six years and the second straight, again joining Reyes among Barton's recent national honorees.

A native of Bor, Serbia, the two-time KJCCC Player of the Week emerged as one of the nation's premier two-way players. She averaged 3.16 kills per set during postseason play while recording four double-doubles in five matches, highlighted by a 19-kill, 17-dig performance on .313 hitting in Barton's national tournament finale.

Barton's Stamenkovic adds AVCA honor to standout freshman season

KANSAS&nbsp; CITY —Two suspects&nbsp; have been charged in connection to a pursuit that occurred on December 7, according to the Cass County, Missouri Sheriff.

Aron Creedon, 33, Edwardsville, is being held on no bond on felony charges of Aggravated Fleeing a Detention/Stop.

Kevin Garrett Jr., 28,&nbsp; Lansing, is being held on a $5,000 bond&nbsp; on charges of Aggravated Fleeing a Detention/Stop (A Misdemeanor). The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Two Kansas men charged in connection with a police pursuit

WASHINGTON (AP) —A West Virginia National Guard member who was shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-dc-c5785dd8920d2d1ac7d71fab769faf5f">last month in the nation’s capital</a>&nbsp;is being transitioned from hospital acute care to in-patient rehabilitation, a doctor said Friday.

Staff. Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was airlifted to MedStar Washington Hospital Center with a critical gunshot wound to the head on Nov. 26.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-victims-west-virginia-washington-b070b093743b016ce32005f800087873">Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom</a>&nbsp;were ambushed as they patrolled a subway station three blocks from the White House.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-white-house-afghan-national-138fbe6872d7ac30b20973783b39002c">Beckstrom died</a>&nbsp;the next day.

Wolfe has “made extraordinary progress” and can stand with assistance, Dr. Jeffrey Mai, a MedStar neurosurgeon, said in a news release. Wolfe’s family chose not to disclose the location of his rehabilitation.

Beckstrom was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/west-virginia-national-guard-shooting-funeral-1f30c4b99f71f2f5b2c8b2fcd5bf688">buried in a private funeral</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lakanwal-national-guard-shooting-suspect-afghan-5e5e9567d95a5d0ef806b714bb3ee3b7">29-year-old Afghan national</a>&nbsp;who was also shot during the confrontation, has been charged with murder. He has pleaded not guilty.

Wounded National Guard member continues to improve

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Democrats released a selection of photos from the estate of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;on Friday, including some of Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and the former Prince Andrew.

<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/fq3vn18ltfd83re8ggtle/AHYB3CbERvyT38o_vHllVx4?dl=0&amp;e=1&amp;rlkey=tz5pq4zr9i6nofkpi2g7l5vne&amp;st=rxoz19hb">Click here to see</a> all the photo

The dozens of photos initially released by Democratic lawmakers on the House Oversight Committee were a small part of more than 95,000 they received from the estate of Epstein, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-jail-suicide-prison-death-8d194a756f2b429067f009a0c70f96c0">died in a New York jail cell</a>&nbsp;in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The photos released Friday were separate from the case files that the Department of Justice is now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-sex-trafficking-case-records-justice-department-016bbded12959c90d1679e15aa273b60">under compulsion to release</a>, but anticipation is growing as the Trump administration faces a deadline next week to produce&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-release-justice-department-32cbc21a6ae8189dccd00455dc83d2be">the Epstein files</a>&nbsp;that have been the source of conspiracy theories and speculation for years.

The photos were released without captions or context and included a black-and-white image of Trump alongside six women whose faces were blacked out.

The president said he hadn’t seen the photos from Epstein’s estate released Friday, but they were “no big deal.”

Trump said Epstein was “all over Palm Beach” and had “photos with everybody.”

Rep. Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, did not say whether any of the women in the photos was a victim of abuse, but he added, “Our commitment from day one has been to redact any photo, any information that could lead to any sort of harm to any of the victims.”

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson accused Democrats of “selectively releasing cherry-picked photos with random redactions to try and create a false narrative" and called it part of a “Democrat hoax against President Trump.”

Many of the photos have already circulated in the public. Democrats pledged to continue to release photos in the days and weeks ahead, as they look to pressure Trump over his Republican administration’s earlier refusal to release documents in the Epstein probe. Garcia said his staff had looked through about a quarter of the images it had received from Epstein’s estate, which included photos that were sent to him or that he had in his possession.

“Donald Trump right now needs to release the files to the American public so that the truth can come out and we can actually get some sense of justice for the survivors,” Garcia added.

He initially released 19 photos Friday morning, then roughly 70 more photos later Friday, including one of Epstein taking a bath, a photo of him with a swollen lip, photos of his home and a photo of him posing with a book about the scandal.

Trump,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-epstein-conspiracies-97200cfab77572a36bc9ab25841a8833">once a close friend</a>&nbsp;of Epstein, has said he parted ways with him long before he faced the sex trafficking charges. Clinton, too, has minimized his relationship with Epstein, acknowledging that he traveled on Epstein’s private jet but saying through a spokesperson that he had no knowledge of the late financier’s crimes. Clinton also has never been accused of misconduct by Epstein’s known victims. However, Republicans on the House committee are pushing him and Hillary Clinton to testify in their investigation.

Rep. James Comer, the GOP chair of the House Oversight Committee, threatened late Friday to begin contempt of Congress proceedings against the Clintons if they don't appear next week or reschedule depositions in January.

A spokesperson for the Republican-controlled committee also said that nothing in the documents the committee has received shows “any wrongdoing” by Trump.

Andrew&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/prince-andrew-charles-epstein-chinese-spy-91c4bec9a5cf3de8fcb16f9c1fe52e60">lost his royal titles and privileges</a>&nbsp;this year amid new revelations of his ties to Epstein, though he has denied wrongdoing.

The photo release also included images of the right-wing political operative Steve Bannon, billionaires Richard Branson and Bill Gates, filmmaker Woody Allen, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and law professor Alan Dershowitz. The men have denied any wrongdoing in their associations with Epstein, who kept many high-profile figures in his circle of friends.

Amid an earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/larry-summers-harvard-jeffrey-epstein-bebad1142f859c15467ed010c08ea6fa">release of emails between Summers and Epstein</a>, Summers stepped away from his teaching position at Harvard University and faced other fallout to his standing in academic circles.

Allen has faced allegations from his adopted daughter, Dylan Farrow, of molesting her as a child. He has denied the allegations.

Some lawmakers, however, believe that other high-powered figures could be implicated in Epstein’s abuse if the full case files from the Justice Department are released.

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican who was instrumental in passing a bill to require the public release of the files, said it was a good sign that the Department of Justice has sought to have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-sex-trafficking-case-records-justice-department-016bbded12959c90d1679e15aa273b60">grand jury material released from several courts</a>.

“The grand jury material is just a small fraction of what the DOJ needs to release, because the FBI and DOJ probably has evidence that they chose not to take to the grand jury because the evidence they’re in possession of would implicate other people, not Epstein or Maxwell,” he said.

See the photos:  Trump says release of more Epstein photos is ‘no big deal'

JOHNSON COUNTY —The Johnson County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a stabbing which ultimately ended in an officer-involved shooting on Friday, according to a statement from the sheriff's office. One person died.

The Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Investigations Team is taking over the investigation, with the lead agency as the Olathe Police Department.

Just before 11 a.m. on Friday, law enforcement received a call reporting a stabbing at the Panasonic facility at 103rd and Astra Parkway in De Soto. 

Deputies arrived on scene shortly after and located one victim with multiple stab wounds. The deputies located the suspect and an officer-involved shooting occurred. Deputies performed life-saving efforts on the suspect. The suspect was pronounced deceased by MED-ACT at 11:25 a.m.

MED-ACT transported one victim with stab wounds in critical condition to the hospital.

Johnson County Park Police also responded to the incident. No deputies or officers were injured.

JOHNSON COUNTY—There was a large law enforcement presence in the area of the Panasonic battery plant near 103rd and Astra Parkway in DeSoto, according to a statement from the&nbsp;Johnson County Sheriff's Office.

"The situation is contained and there is no active threat to the public. There will be a law enforcement presence in the area for an extended time," the sheriff's office reported.&nbsp; The plant opened in July.

Check the&nbsp; Post for additional details as they become available.

Sheriff: One dead after officer-shooting at Kansas battery plant 

LONDON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/king-charles-iii">King Charles III</a>&nbsp;said Friday that his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year because of early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to doctor’s orders.

Charles, 77, revealed the information in a recorded message broadcast on British television as part of a campaign to encourage people to take advantage of screening that can detect cancer in its early stages when it is easiest to treat.

“Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives,” the king said.

“I know, too, what a difference it has made in my own case, enabling me to continue leading a full and active life even while undergoing treatment,’' he added.

The recorded message gave Charles the opportunity to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/king-charles-iii-coronation-cancer-54f27cc73f383bd7b69e93ceddd9d538">reflect on his experiences</a>&nbsp;in the 22 months since he announced he would undergo treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer.

Charles’ decision to disclose his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/king-charles-iii-cancer-britain-e0408a7c9bb86ad2af8754ce4b37d65e">diagnosis</a>&nbsp;was a departure for Britain’s royals, who have traditionally considered their health to be a personal matter and shared few details with the public.

“His majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer,” Buckingham Palace said at the time.

Since then, Charles has used his own story to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/king-charles-britain-cancer-d646b835180e903c2d6c773e22f5dae1">highlight the need for early diagnosis and treatment</a>. Cancer Research UK recorded a 33% increase in visits to its website in the weeks after the king’s diagnosis, as people sought information about the signs of cancer.

While the palace hasn’t specified what type of cancer the king has, officials said the cancer was discovered after treatment for an enlarged prostate revealed “a separate issue of concern.”

King Charles III discusses his cancer treatment, recovery

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sherrone-moore-michigan-ecc29f440a54659c40a98b02f3b534ce">Sherrone Moore</a>, who was abruptly fired this week as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sherrone-moore-michigan-a11220624841e4697b781a4c8edcdddd">University of Michigan football</a>&nbsp;coach, was charged Friday with three crimes including home invasion and stalking a person he had dated, prosecutors said.

Moore has spent two nights in jail following his firing and subsequent arrest Wednesday.

The 39-year-old coach who had led the Wolverines for two seasons was fired for what the school called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-sherrone-moore-fired-ec213f233cae4f730f474331ec5e2cdd">an inappropriate relationship</a>&nbsp;with a staff member. Hours later, police arrested Moore after he was accused of assault in Pittsfield Township, a community near Ann Arbor.

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