The Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC) on Thursday announced the eight products headed to the next round of voting for the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQe-kzpiIzffMSup6hbA0QbNs1EWawHrBzB1a98a7YOSVGZSmXNif6KxrWmuWUSqG--ufB_pFZroT-D-dqcVMUP4oRlySdHwGk4bIdq0hAjm-0&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">2024 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas - People's Choice</a>&nbsp;tournament. The Atom Pop, a product from Bushton's QuinCraft had advanced to the second round.

Made in Bushton, the Atom Pop is a stove top popcorn popper. It makes 2 1/2 quarts of popped corn.​​ The conical shape and aluminum bowl allow the popcorn to be popped without stirring or shaking. Popped kernels are pushed up away from the heat and the aluminum dissipates the heat so the corn does not burn.​ It is as convenient as microwave popcorn and is healthier without the additives.

Presented by Forvis Mazars, Kansans cast nearly&nbsp;21,000 votes during the first round of tournament voting that concluded Wednesday, September 11th.

The eight products who received the most votes in the tournament's first round of head to head match-ups now move on to the second round. The head to head match ups for the second round of the tournament are:

Second round voting is currently open. Kansans can vote in the second round of the&nbsp;People's Choice&nbsp;tournament at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQeyxf2RHcSklqCfEbx3Qi1bDi2Pl5GRlAylCHyGRIgAek4LUL4I4tLbj6fEgXuIAXBZ6FIsUShZ48IORgOOQ6vmsJb89WvWlxLd61zFJjphzl&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">https://bit.ly/2024CoolestThing</a>&nbsp;until 5 pm, Wednesday, Sept. 25.

The four match-up winners in the second round then will compete for the most votes in the final round of the tournament.

This year's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQe-kzpiIzffMSup6hbA0QbNs1EWawHrBzB1a98a7YOSVGZSmXNif6KxrWmuWUSqG--ufB_pFZroT-D-dqcVMUP4oRlySdHwGk4bIdq0hAjm-0&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">Coolest Thing Made in Kansas</a>&nbsp;competition also includes the&nbsp;Coolest Innovation&nbsp;category. Twelve of the 28 nominated companies completed a questionnaire about their innovations.&nbsp;The KMC will announce the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQe7Ha0RlJ1Wnqzgoul0_92xxgPKCriswXtJplCzZ7x-xdiDVhK-Kub34J8YHE9mm_Nh2ts5mNwRww-ENDF6cV--S-97SUAXgCe_UT4JbTCalibU2doGoEqpZjoyBzKixiPAsHGDdeXTSC_rZxnPEdvNuIdg-z40AzdpbcWF4_S8G8B1-zcNTcTAb91uGhUUh-Iw==&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">four finalists</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 1.

The winners of both contests will be announced on Wednesday, Oct. 9 during the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQe1aut4-Dm6qhQ5S6uYBhOon-LPlrieN_7dX-iVl3ithp3Rsp7aO3yA-ggm1rqXfic2fsj0XKNXLs9h4z91NHx7FOmbpHuxXlUUTWsKx1-4nRnWz7dTePpJE=&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">2024 Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.

<a target="_blank" href="https://9slwjycab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00117GXkiUZA5Cx4d016rgqNDCrraZ3HLAK7h4ZxR9zcNjmxS5JkwvQeyxf2RHcSklqCfEbx3Qi1bDi2Pl5GRlAylCHyGRIgAek4LUL4I4tLbj6fEgXuIAXBZ6FIsUShZ48IORgOOQ6vmsJb89WvWlxLd61zFJjphzl&amp;c=9iGamoNvMUz4rnWdkVuLNdwg6bOfSl3yyOV457WS4ic7mgh1Zt7yhw==&amp;ch=J57M0pbdSVPp8a3pBXr8CDOScP6HA6uDRKwjzHUTfk1ZGfC2no6AIA==">Vote Now for the Second Round!</a>

Bushton manufacturer advances in 'Coolest Thing Made in KS' tournament

Medical Park Pharmacy, Mayo Money Management, Hazmat Response, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Freedom Claims Management, Inc., Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company, Stone Sand Company/Stone Waste Management, Miller Plastics/Miller Warehouse, Nex-Tech Wireless, USD #431 Hoisington, Great Bend Redi Mix, Heavy Duty Diesel &amp; Auto, USD #428 Great Bend

Make a Difference Contest 

<a href="https://www.farmersbankks.com/">Farmers Bank and Trust</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.mechevy.com/">Ehler Chevrolet</a>

<a href="https://sutherlands.com/s/great-bend-ks/3702">Sutherlands</a>

<a href="https://www.eldridgefencing.com/">Eldridge Fencing</a>

<a href="https://www.santafellc.com/liquormart.html">Santa Fe Liquormart</a>

<a href="https://www.cornerstonegreatbend.com/">Cornerstone Automotive</a>

<a href="https://www.nex-techwireless.com/">Nex-Tech Wireless</a>

<a href="https://zsliquor.com/">Z's Liquor Mart</a>

<a href="https://www.boonesmaytag.com/">Boone's Maytag</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KellysGardenSenseKS/">Kelly's Garden Sense</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/heavydutydiesel/">Heavy Duty Diesel</a>

<a href="https://memorialartcompany.com/stores/">Memorial Art Company</a>

<a href="https://www.millersofclaflin.com/">Millers of Claflin</a>

<a href="https://www.thecentergb.org/">The Center for Counselin</a>g

<a href="https://locations.theupsstore.com/ks/great-bend/5523-10th-street?utm_source=Yext&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_campaign=Listings">Westside Market - UPS Store</a>

<a href="https://www.centralplainssecurity.com/">Central Plains Security</a>

<a href="https://www.dairyqueen.com/en-us/locations/ks/great-bend/2302-n-main-st/1504/">Great Bend Dairy Queen</a>

<a href="https://www.greatbendappliance.com/">Great Bend Appliance</a>

<a href="https://www.tandlfireworks.com/">T&amp;L Fireworks</a>

<a href="https://www.nex-tech.com/">NexTech</a>

Moeder Plumbing Heating &amp; Air Conditioning

<a href="https://gbirontherapytraining.com/">Iron Therapy Training</a>

<a href="https://www.ellinwoodchamber.com/">Ellinwood After Harvest Festival</a>

<a href="https://www.greatbendks.net/">City of Great Bend</a>

<a href="https://kansasland.thetirestore.com/Contact/Find-Us/Mode/24/1820-N-Main-Great-Bend-KS-67530/details">Kansasland Tire</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/thatnewplaceolmitz/">That New Place in Olmitz</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Fireworks-For-Less/100078093544562/">Windshields for Less (Fireworks for Less)</a>

<a href="https://www.hoisingtonvet.net/">Hoisington Veterinary Hospital</a>

Trax to the Max Giveaway 

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

No date has been officially locked in, but a groundbreaking ceremony for
a new childcare center in Hoisington is scheduled for Oct. 1.
The facility will be located behind Roosevelt Elementary School where a modular
building used to be positioned. 

USD 431 Hoisington gave Advancing Barton County
Childcare the land for the center. Superintendent Patrick Crowdis said
originally the daycare was expected to have room for 59 children, but that might
be changing due to funding.


"It has been expressed in our meetings that through the legislative session there was some funding they were expecting to get through grants from the State of Kansas," said Crowdis. "Some of those were removed from the final budgeting legislation that took place."

There is consideration of decreasing the size of the Hoisington childcare
center to a capacity of 38 children. Crowdis said he is working with Great Bend
Economic Development to create surveys to identify the true need of daycare
spots in Hoisington.


A $1.6 million daycare, Bright Beginnings, was constructed in Great Bend and
opened in June. A $2.23 million grant from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and
Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator was received for the project to not
only finish the fundraising for the Great Bend facility but to help start
construction for the Hoisington center.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Consideration to reduce size of new Hoisington childcare center

While the Home for the Holidays Festival &amp; Parade is still more than
70 days away, the grand marshal for the 2024 parade was announced as Sarah Krom. The
City of Great Bend received nominations for the past few years with a
committee voting on the winners. 

Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina
Hayes said Krom is a staple in the community for doing good things. Last year’s
festival and parade was canceled due to the weather, so last year’s grand marshal
selection, Joe Boley, will be honored.


"Our honorary grand marshal this year is going to be Joe Boley," said Hayes. "As you all know, he passed earlier this month. We will still keep him as honorary grand marshal because last year was canceled. We will do something special to honor him."

Boley passed away Sept. 4 at the age of 92.


Krom spent 36 years working at Sunflower Diversified Services before retiring
in 2020. Hayes said Krom helped plan the parade for 12 years.


Last year would have marked the 18th consecutive year for the
festival and parade. The parade theme will be announced in October. The 2024
festival will take place the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 30.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Krom chosen as grand marshal for Great Bend holiday parade

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3v7XHn1. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Sept. 17 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the September 10, 2024, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COMMISSION: Employee Engagement Committee: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Judith Castro, Employee Engagement Committee, will provide details. The Employee Engagement Committee (EEC) is charged with creating short- and long-term goals and project development to improve employee retention and employee satisfaction. Available unexpired terms end December 31, 2024.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Employee Recognition Award: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Castro will provide details. The EEC accepts nominations from employees for the Employee Recognition Award. Lindsey Creamer, Shared Clerk, was nominated for being flexible in her position and her assistance to many departments while moving to and from the Penny’s building.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. GREAT BEND AIRFEST: Ticket Giveaway: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Christina Hayes, City of Great Bend Community Coordinator, will provide details. The Great Bend Airfest will be held at the Great Bend Municipal Airport September 20 – 22, 2024. This sponsor-driven event generally includes rides and tours of historic warbirds, airshow, veteran recognition and displays. At this time, the Commission will give away four pair of tickets, three via a Facebook contest and one via a drawing for a County employee.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. PROCLAMATION 2024-16: National Recovery Month: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Amy Ferguson, Director, Rise Up Central Kansas, will present Proclamation 2024-16, National Recovery Month, September, 2024. Detailing the impact of recovery through hope and healing, this Proclamation calls for community members to observe the month with compelling programs and events. Included is Recovery Out Loud, Every Voice Matters, beginning at 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 20, 2024, at Jack Kilby Square.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. SOLID WASTE: Purchase of a Fire Truck: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, will provide details. For some time, the Solid Waste Department has taken measures to assure fire suppression. There are thermal camera monitoring disposal areas and staff assures proper coverage. Even with these activities, the disposal areas are still prone to fire. Staff has secured a 1996 Ford F350 Brush Fire Truck through Purple Wave as an added defense against spreading fires. The Commission will be asked to ratify the purchase.

&nbsp; &nbsp;F. RESOLUTION 2024-18: A Resolution Setting Out the Policy of Barton County, Kansas, on Water Conservation, Use and Administration and Requiring Coordination with any Federal Agency that Negatively Impacts Barton County Residents: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will provide details. Under the proposed Resolution, as provided by the Kansas Natural Resource Coalition, the Barton County Commission would establish a policy on water conservation, use and administration. The Resolution specifically establishes that no federal water rights should be exercised in any way that diminishes the availability or use of water for agriculture in Barton County. Further, that all Kansas Counties should work together as one coalition to defend the essential existing water system against all threats, including federal control.

&nbsp; &nbsp;G. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the&nbsp;day.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Equipment Bids and Budget Expenditure Update – Chris Schartz, Interim Road and Bridge Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Departmental Update – Wendy Prosser, County Appraiser.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:30 a.m. – Luncheon meeting with the Barton County Health Department Advisory Committee. The luncheon will be held at the Health Department, 1300 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for September 19, 2024.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (9/17)

Rice Community Healthcare is excited to unveil a new branding initiative designed to align its services more closely with its focus on family medicine and community-centered care. As part of this rebrand, the healthcare system has adopted the name Rice Community Health, representing all its entities under one cohesive system brand.

Key changes include renaming Hospital District No. 1 of Rice County to Rice Community Hospital, Sterling Medical Center to Sterling Family Care, and Lyons Medical Center to Lyons Family Care. These new names reflect Rice Community Health’s dedication to providing comprehensive family care, ensuring that individuals of all ages receive personalized healthcare services.

In addition to these facility name changes, the Community Health Workers Program has also been rebranded as Rural Health Connections, reflecting a renewed focus on addressing the unique healthcare needs of Rice County.

“We are proud to introduce Rice Community Health as our new system brand, which represents all of our entities, including Rice Community Hospital, Lyons Family Care, Sterling Family Care, the Family Birth Center, Rice Community Healthcare Foundation, Noble Place Independent Living, and Rural Health Connections,” said George Stover, CEO of Rice Community Health. “This rebrand marks a significant step in our commitment to serve the evolving healthcare needs of the families in our community.”

By uniting all services under the Rice Community Health name, the organization is emphasizing its holistic approach to healthcare, from family medicine to independent living. This transformation underscores Rice Community Health’s mission to remain a trusted partner in health and wellness for families throughout Rice County.

As part of the rebranding initiative, Rice Community Health has also launched a new website,<a target="_blank" href="https://ricecommunityhealth.com/"> https://ricecommunityhealth.com</a>, designed to provide patients with easier access to information about services, physicians, and wellness resources across the entire healthcare system. The website reflects the new brand’s focus on family-centered care and community health.

Rice Community Healthcare announces rebrand

On Thursday, Sept. 12, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Amore Italian Restaurant, located at 2917 10th St. Guests enjoyed a variety of delicious appetizers as the restaurant celebrated its new leadership and exciting updates to its offerings.

Johnny Thaqi, the new manager of Amore Italian Restaurant, brings over 20 years of restaurant experience. Though originally from New York, Johnny has also lived in towns similar in size to Great Bend, including nearly a decade in Texas. He and his family are thrilled to now call Great Bend home. “We feel so welcome here and are looking forward to becoming more involved in this wonderful community,” Johnny shared.

Amore Italian Restaurant, which opened its doors on June 18th, is known for its authentic, homemade Italian cuisine. Under Johnny's management, the restaurant has expanded its menu, introduced new lunch specials, and lowered prices to ensure that more people can enjoy the delicious offerings at affordable rates. Customers can also look forward to the addition of dinner specials in the coming weeks.

Among the local favorites are the Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo, Tour of Italy (featuring chicken parmesan, lasagna, and fettuccine alfredo), and Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo.

Amore Italian Restaurant is open for dine-in and carry-out and is also available on DoorDash and Slice for delivery. The restaurant’s hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and closed on Mondays.

Italian restaurant welcomes new manager & menu updates

Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.

Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.

Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotline&nbsp;at 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.

Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are additional resources:

&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/">https://thecentergb.org/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/"></a>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Suicide is a preventable crisis

Hear the Ask the Expert episode with Eagle Media's Dakota Tucker and Dr. Kurt Williams from Central Kansas Dentistry in Ellsworth that aired Sept. 10, 2024.&nbsp;In this month's episode, Williams discusses his all new website, gives updates on "cool things" with patients and a few human interest stories.

The Central Kansas Dentistry program airs the second Tuesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast (Sponsored): Central Kansas Dentistry September show

Children's Awareness Month: Support Kans for Kids

9/13 BOOKED: Ivan Herrera on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Without a Valid License, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Tyler Harry on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of a Protection Order, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Domynick Clone on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Ernest Klima on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Teresa Schmidt on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: William Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Flee or Attempt to Elude LEO, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Driving While Suspended, Reckless Driving, Expire or No Registration, Failure to Stop or Yield at Stop Sign, Basic Speed, Speeding, and Improper Turn or Stop, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Ivan Herrera on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Without a Valid License, after posting a $500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Jonnathen Harrington, to another agency.

RELEASED: Darwin Schartz on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

9/14 BOOKED: Eliseo Velasco on Barton County District Court case for Child Endangerment, DUI, No Interlock, Child Passenger Restraint, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Laura Martinez on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Improper Illuminated License Plate, bond at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Cornelio Ayala-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Dawn Cannon on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Nevada Woods on Reno County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Duncan Bryant on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.

BOOKED: Victor Rodriguez-Figueroa on Barton County District Court case for No Valid License and Failure to Maintain Lane, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Cornelio Ayala-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Laura Martinez on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Improper Illuminated License Plate, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Dawn Cannon on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Nevada Woods on Reno County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $5,000 surety bond.

9/15 BOOKED: Seth Hoopingarner on Barton County District Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jonathan Abernathy on Riley County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jonathan Corp in Barton County District Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Clayton Mattox Jr. on Stafford County District Court case for Aggravated Burglary and Interference with LEO, bond set at $25,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Brock Ibarra on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Required Position Turning, Basic Speed, and Failure to Signal 100 feet prior, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael Stevenson Sr. on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Davion Wilmer on Rush County District Court case for Battery on LEO, Interference with LEO, and Minor in Consumption, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Lisa Moore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery Domestic Violence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Alan Reyes-Banuelos on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License and No Insurance, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Victor Rodriguez-Figueroa on Barton County District Court case for No Valid License and Failure to Maintain Lane, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Seth Hoopingarner on Barton County District Court case for DUI, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Jonathan Corp in Barton County District Court case for DUI, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Brock Ibarra on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Required Position Turning, Basic Speed, and Failure to Signal 100 feet prior, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Lisa Moore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery Domestic Violence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Alan Reyes-Banuelos on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License and No Insurance, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (9/13 - 9/15)

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Colt Keith hit a two-run homer, Matt Vierling had three hits while driving in the go-ahead run, and the Detroit Tigers rallied from an early four-run deficit to beat the Kansas City Royals 7-6 on Monday night in a crucial game for their playoff hopes.

Pinch-hitter Wenceel Pérez had the tying two-run double for Detroit, which began its final trip of the regular season by moving within 1 1/2 games of Minnesota for the final AL wild-card spot. The Twins lost to Cleveland earlier in the night.

“It was an incredible win because of how we were able to do it,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We didn't do much early, although our at-bats were pretty good. Started to chip away a little bit, a couple of really big swings, and then we held on."

Brenan Hanifee (1-1) earned the win in relief for Detroit, allowing one run and three hits over 2 1/3 innings. Jason Foley finished off a solid bullpen performance, working a perfect ninth to earn his 24th save and second in two days.

“The bullpen has been doing it all year for us,” Keith said, “and they did it again tonight.”

Bobby Witt Jr. hit a grand slam to stake Kansas City to a 4-0 lead, and he added a bunt single for a five-RBI game. But the Royals otherwise kept squandering chances to score, just as they did in their loss to the Pirates on Sunday.

Sam Long (3-2) took the loss for Kansas City, allowing three runs while retiring just two batters in relief of Seth Lugo.

“A lot of stuff happened in that game, clearly. It was an intense back-and-forth, both teams putting everything on the line,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “You get out to a lead, you feel pretty good. You know they're not going to go away.”

Indeed, the Royals started their final homestand by taking advantage of what Detroit could not: the bases loaded.

The Tigers packed them in the third before Keith grounded out to second to end the threat. But when Kansas City loaded the bases in the bottom half — a leadoff walk from Adam Frazier, a single by Yuli Gurriel and a bunt single from Kyle Isbel — Witt hit a 1-1 pitch what seemed like a mile high and over the left-field wall for his second grand slam of the season.

Reese Olson, making his first start since straining his right shoulder July 20 in Toronto, was lifted one batter later, after Salvador Perez blooped a single to right. He allowed four runs, four hits and a walk while throwing 50 pitches.

The Tigers still trailed 5-1 in the fifth when they began their comeback, scoring once on Witt's throwing error and twice more when Keith homered to right. And after Witt delivered an RBI single in the bottom half for his 200th hit of the season, Detroit pushed across three more runs in the sixth off Long and John Schreiber to take a 7-6 lead.

“We had trouble putting them away from the very beginning. There weren’t a lot of easy outs,” Quatraro said. "You have got to give them credit the way they battled their at-bats and drove (Seth) Lugo’s pitch count up. Then they continued to put good at-bats up. I thought ours were pretty good, too. We just didn’t get the big hits like they did.”

The Royals had two aboard with one out in the seventh, and the first two on base in the eighth, but failed to score both times.

“That was one of the best games we've played as a team,” Keith said. “I don't think anybody thought that we were out of it.

Royals: RHP Chris Stratton, who went on the injured list Saturday, was diagnosed with a Grade-1 flexor strain and will be shut down for at least a week. ... RHP James McArthur left Monday's game after retiring two batters with right elbow tightness.

Kansas City: LHP Cole Ragans (11-9, 3.32) faces the Tigers after striking out 12 against them in an 8-3 win on May 22.

Witt grand slam not enough for Royals in 7-6 loss to Detroit

By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports Info

The Barton Community College women's cross country team competed in its second meet of the season on Friday morning participating at the FHSU Tiger Open held at the Rolling Ridge Course in Hays, Kansas.

Fielding just two runners and unable to compete as a team, freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wxc/2024-25/bios/schultz_lakota_kjdl">Lakota Schultz</a>&nbsp;paced the two-pack of Cougars conducting the 25th fastest stoppage of 21:25.6 in the 36 entrée 5K race.

<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wxc/2024-25/bios/sleichter_lainie_fhns">Lainie Sleichter</a>&nbsp;concluded the Barton participants maneuvering around the 5K course in 26:21.9 finishing 34th quickest.

Claiming the team title was host Fort Hays State University with a score of 17 points edging out Jayhawk Conference foes Garden City Community College's runner-up 59 points and Dodge City Community College's third best 64 point total.

Defending her individual title from a season ago, Jaycee Vath of Fort Hays State University paced the field in 18:17.0, edging out teammates Emma Weiner's runner-up time 18:19.7 and Taylor Hoskinson's third quickest 18:33.8.

Barton will have some time off before their next meet coming in a tune-up at the Tiger Preview held October 12th at the Kansas Veterans Home in Arkansas City, Kansas before returning two-weeks later for the KJCCC/Region VI Championships.

Barton Women's Cross Country completes FHSU Tiger Open

- Great Bend Panther Color Analyst Shawn Behr breaks down Friday's home opener for Great Bend against Olathe South.

- Great Bend Tribune Sports Editor Jim Misunas

- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl for Panther Sports" with Great Bend cross country coach Lyles Lashley

Monday on Sports Day(Watch)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco is likely headed to injured reserve after hurting his right ankle in the final minutes of Sunday's win over the Cincinnati Bengals, a person with knowledge of the injury told The Associated Press.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Monday because Pacheco was undergoing additional testing, and the team was not prepared to announce the results. Pacheco had X-rays on Sunday night and was still due to have an MRI exam on the ankle.

“I don't have a timeframe on Pacheco,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said on a conference call with reporters later Monday, "but I know it won't be this week, and he'll probably be more than that. So obviously, it's going to take a little bit of time there."

Pacheco was seen leaving Arrowhead Stadium in a walking boot and using crutches, shortly after Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal with no time remaining to lift the Super Bowl champions to a 26-25 victory over the Bengals. Pacheco was hurt on the first play of that final possession, when he plunged forward into the offensive line and appeared to roll his ankle.

Pacheco, who has been part of the Chiefs’ back-to-back Super Bowl championship teams, ran for 45 yards and a touchdown in their season-opening win over Baltimore, and he had 90 yards rushing and a score before leaving Sunday’s game.

“I haven't seen him today but I talked to him twice last night, so I think he's in a better place than he was,” Reid said. “Here's a guy that loves to play the game. He had tears. He was emotional. But you don't ever want to lose it. It's an emotional sport, and that kid — nobody likes to play more than he likes to play.”

The Chiefs, who put wide receiver Marquise Brown on injured reserve last week because of impending shoulder surgery, were already short-handed at running back even before Pacheco hurt his ankle. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is on the non-football illness list and must miss two more regular-season games before he can return to the active roster.

Reid said his potential return in Week 5 was among the many factors the team was weighing Monday. Undrafted rookie Carson Steele, who had seven carries for 24 yards but also lost a fumble on Sunday, and Samaje Perine, who signed with Kansas City on Aug. 30 and played just nine snaps against the Bengals, are the only other active running backs.

Keaontay Ingram and Emani Bailey are available on Chiefs' practice squad, or the Chiefs could look at practice squads of other teams for players to sign to their active roster. Deneric Prince, who was with them in camp, is on the Miami practice squad.

Chiefs' Pacheco likely headed for IR after hurting ankle, AP source says

Just four days after hosting a small tennis invitational on Tuesday, the Lady Panther tennis team returned to the Shannon Schartz Courts Saturday for an 8-team tournament. Garden City scored 67 points for the team title, followed by Sterling with 52 points, and Great Bend with 33 points. Hoisington scored 25 points for sixth, and Ellinwood rounded out the field with 21 points.

Paige Stacey finished third at No. 1 singles. She went 2-1 in pool matches with an 8-6 win against Dodge City and an 8-0 win over Ellinwood's Brooklyn Reynolds before falling to Sterling 8-0. Stacey defeated Hoisington's Claire Crutcher 8-4 in the consolation finals.

Great Bend also had success at No. 2 doubles behind Mackezie LaViolette and Beth Hammeke. After an 8-6 loss to the eventual runners-up from Dodge City, the girls downed Ellinwood's Vivian Klepper and Shelby Steffan 8-3, then defeated Sterling 8-2. Great Bend fell to Liberal 8-3 in the consolation finals.

The No. 1 doubles team of Darcy Feist and Mac Lindberg finished sixth in their bracket. They opened with an 8-2 win against Dodge City, then edged Ellinwood's Grace Sturtz and Mahra Johnson 8-7 (2). The Lady Panthers closed out pool play with an 8-6 loss to Sterling, then fell to Trego 8-5 in the fifth-place match. Sturtz and Johnson fell to Garden City 8-7 (3) in a competitive title match.

Clarise Snapp also finished sixth in the No. 2 singles spot for Great Bend. After an 8-2 loss to Dodge City, she blanked Ellinwood 8-0 and lost an 8-7 (4) battle against Sterling. Snapp fell to Liberal 8-4 in the fifth-place match. Hoisington's Reese Merlau was sitting at 2-1 after pool matches but had to default out of the third-place match.

Lady Panther tennis team finishes third at 8-team home invite

Amidst a grueling stretch facing three straight nationally ranked opponents, the Barton Community College women's soccer team had one slip away Saturday afternoon as an equalizing goal with 17:34 remaining furnished a 1-1 draw with No. 18 Hutchinson Community College at the Cougar Soccer Complex.

The result leaves Barton 1-2-2 in league play and 3-2-2 on the season while the Blue Dragons sit 3-1-2 in conference and 4-1-2 overall. The Cougars will conclude their three-match stretch against ranked opponents traveling to No. 14 Cowley Wednesday night at 5:00 p.m.

Controlling possession for much of the first half, Barton finally broke through on the scoreboard with 1:27 remaining in the first stanza as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/jolly_fiona_g347">Fiona Jolly</a>&nbsp;rattled the nets for the fifth time this season going unmarked inside the 6' cleaning up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/silva_leticia_f680">Leticia Quadros</a>&nbsp;denied free kick shot attempt.

Outshooting the Blue Dragons 11-0 in the opening 45-minutes, the two teams combined for six shots apiece over the final 45-minutes.

Much like Barton's goal, the Blue Dragons benefitted behind a free kick attempt in the 73rd minute, as Kira Artmann's sent in ball found Kaitlyn Edwards in front of the net for a near post-strike to knot the game even at 1-1.

The Cougars created multiple chances for the go-ahead goal behind its 17-6 shot advantage, but the Blue Dragons goalkeeper Karsyn Siothower denied nine of 10 shots faced on frame.

Barton netminder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/tanaka_mio_fiw7">Mio Tanaka</a>&nbsp;was solid between the pipes rejecting four of the five Hutchinson shots faced with a key save coming on Katharina Marx 1-v-1 opportunity with 68:19 remaining.

Barton Women's Soccer plays to 1-1 draw with No. 18 Hutchinson 

The Lady Panther volleyball team pushed its win streak to eight matches to open the season. Great Bend powered past its first four opponents of the Riley County Tournament on Saturday before falling to fourth-ranked Clay Center (4A) in the title match. 

The Lady Panthers dominated Chapman 25-8, 25-13 in the opener. Senior Kara Feist put down seven kills in the win. Senior Cassie Ellegood and freshman Mikala Minton each added five kills, and sophomore Kya Behr finished with four. Ellegood had a strong service game with five aces. Behr and junior Ava Kaiser led the back row with four digs, and Behr had 15 assists in the win.

Great Bend needed three sets to get by No. 4 Valley Heights (2A) 21-25, 25-19, 27-25. Behr led the attack with 12 kills followed by nine from Ellegood. Ellegood and Feist each had two aces, and Feist and Ellegood each had four blocks. A busy back row dug up 77 balls. Kaiser led the charge with 22, followed by 14 from sophomore Alex Mayers, 12 from Behr, 10 from Minton, and nine from junior Kimberly Hofflinger. Behr added 21 assists.

The Lady Panthers downed perennially-tough Jefferson County North 25-9, 25-13. Feist led the way with six kills, followed by five each from Hofflinger and Mayers. Feist also had four blocks and Hofflinger led the defense with eight digs. Behr finished with 14 assists.

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