By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Let's give them a game plan. At the Dec. 1 Great Bend City Council meeting, new Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) Director Jason Kuilan answered questions from Councilman Gary Parr about GBED's role in the community, and about the status of the new Innovation Center on West 10th Street. Two weeks later, Parr is still not satisfied. During the Dec. 15 council meeting, Parr implored someone with longer standing within GBED to answer questions being put forth by an angry public.

"I wish somebody from GBED would come forward and answer the questions the people are screaming about," Parr said. "They're not asking anymore. They're upset. They're mad. They see what's going on. We've got a building out there, half-finished, with the roof blowing around on it, with the front entrance wide open on it, and we're short about $4 million to finish the project, from what I'm hearing."

During the Dec. 1 meeting, Kuilan explained the grant process and why construction on a new multi-million-dollar Innovation Center began before 100 percent of funds for the project were secured. He also reported the under-construction facility on West 10th Street in Great Bend would be winterized while construction is on pause, and that the goal is still to have the building fully operational by September 2026. Given Kuilan's month-long tenure with GBED, Parr wants answers from someone else.

"When the people are yelling this loud, 'What's going on?' somebody needs to step forward from their board," Parr said, "and just say, 'Here's what's going on, here's what we're going to do, here's our plan, this is the outlay, we're going to answer your questions.' I don't know why that can't happen."

Parr said answers would help quiet concerns from angry community members, but those answers need to come from people who have been involved with the project for longer than a month.

Great Bend Councilman implores Eco Devo board to provide answers to community's questions

he Kansas Corn, Wheat, Soybean, and Sorghum associations today announced the date for the 2026 Kansas Commodity Classic, the premier annual convention for the producers of the state’s four top crops. The event is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Salina, and will kick off at 8:30 a.m., with registration and breakfast prior.

The one-day event is designed to equip Kansas farmers with actionable insights on critical issues impacting their operations, including market trends, long-term weather outlooks, and federal and state legislative actions. The Kansas Commodity Classic is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of industry sponsors, and includes a complimentary breakfast and lunch for all registered attendees.

Featured presentations include a market outlook from Tanner Ehmke of CoBank, as well as an economics and policy session featuring Kansas State University’s Robin Reid and Dr. Jennifer Ifft. Ross Janssen will provide a weather outlook as part of the program. Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam will deliver opening remarks, and farm broadcaster Greg Akagi of WIBW 580 AM will serve as the event emcee.

“The challenges facing Kansas farmers evolve every year–especially this year–but the need for reliable, up-to-date information remains constant,” said Kansas Sorghum Producers CEO Adam York. “The 2026 Kansas Commodity Classic will deliver high-level situational awareness and policy briefings directly from the experts, ensuring our state’s producers are better prepared to navigate challenges and opportunities in the coming year.”

Pre-registration for the Kansas Commodity Classic is strongly encouraged for planning purposes and is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0013B0n8L4aZ2nxyrpLeZ_DLjJiR7_rXulyKGdV-UqY8ED9-p3v3Amdkiq8eA86YYIOoPn21y3g_sUvoWR7PuZsdhrdtCcmFPMleQL0pdGb6aZK4Z29FLwxKY0B1w73UIkhbDoM2u7a0d-C7FV3t-9o4qUOPZqmY9I4Fanjxj5xD_3aM9nuAioL7w==&amp;c=Ch9ysWhaRJKt6czI1kwUGwMynl86OsfRiVtmSfqEx5vkUbsUxrLCoQ==&amp;ch=uFcVEwZO9qYKTLFTDhH4wlvqsdt3wJrWVvMm8U9NsRL__ceB49VyRQ==">kansascommodityclassic.com</a>. Growers can also register to attend commodity organization events scheduled around the Commodity Classic. Two events, the Kansas Corn Symposium and Kansas

Sorghum Producers Annual Membership Meeting and Reception, will both be held on Thursday, Jan. 29. The Kansas Soybean Celebration will be held Friday, Jan. 30 following Commodity Classic.&nbsp;

﻿The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers annual meeting will be held prior to Commodity Classic on Jan. 16, 2026, at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan, Kansas, at 10 a.m. Zoom invitations will be emailed to members prior to the event.

The Kansas Commodity Classic is the annual joint convention of the Kansas Corn Growers Association, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Sorghum Producers Association, and the Kansas Soybean Association. It serves as the leading forum for education, policy updates, and networking for the state’s commodity producers

Written by Maddy Meier for Kansas Sorghum

Wheat Scoop: Kansas Commodity Classic Set For Jan. 30 in Salina

Golden Belt Community Foundation just completed its 12th Giving Tuesday campaign, wrapping up and announcing the results during a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Coffee Thursday morning.

Giving Tuesday started as a day for anyone, anywhere to give, and it has grown into the biggest giving movement in the world. Giving Tuesday harnesses the generosity of millions of people around the world to support the causes they believe in and the communities in which they live. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday inspires millions of people across the globe to show up and give back to causes and issues that matter to them.

This year many gifts were made to support 127 local charitable organizations and endowment funds raising a total of $973,952.78.

“This year marked GBCF’s 12th year to be a Giving Tuesday partner,” stated Mackenzie Mitchell, Development and Communications Coordinator, “and again this year we invited all charitable organizations in Barton, Edwards, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford counties to participate.”

Mitchell further explained that there were a handful of new organizations participating, and that each organization chose whether to get any gifts received as a grant back to their organization or to use the gifts to build their endowment fund at GBCF. Many organizations will be receiving the gifts as grants to be put to immediate use supporting a wide variety of missions and causes.

“Today GBCF will be awarding over $900,000 in grants,” Mitchell explained.

The 2025 Top Ten All-Stars for Giving Tuesday are:

1- Great Bend Recreation Commission Foundation $307,263.31

2- Barton County Community College Foundation $117,525.16

3- Prince of Peace Catholic Church $36,714.41

5- Stafford County Economic Development $30,008.76

7- Community Food Bank of Barton County $24,031.31

10- Golden Belt Humane Society $18,583.55

“Thank you for your support, participation, and spreading the word about Giving Tuesday”, said Jason Murray, Executive Director. “Giving Tuesday couldn’t happen without you”.

The Most Generous City Award, which was calculated with gift totals by zip code per capita. Pawnee Rock received the 2025 MGC award, and the foundation will make a grant of $1,000 to a program or project in that community.

In 2026, Giving Tuesday will be celebrated on Dec. 1.

For questions about Golden Belt Community Foundation or Giving Tuesday, please contact the foundation at gbcf@goldenbeltcf.org or (620) 792-3000.

Almost a million: Golden Belt Community Foundation announces Giving Tuesday results

The Great Bend Police Department is investigating a series of vehicle burglaries that occurred between approximately 10 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2025, and 3 a.m. on Nov. 1, 2025, within the city of Great Bend.

Preliminary information suggests 10–15 vehicles were unlawfully entered during this time frame. These incidents are speculated to have taken place in the area between 10th Street and Broadway Avenue, specifically from Harrison Street west to Sherman Street.

Investigators are attempting to locate additional victims who may not have reported a theft, as well as anyone who observed suspicious activity during the listed time period.

Additionally, a&nbsp;Jeep&nbsp;key fob has been recovered. The owner is believed to reside west of McKinley Street or near the Broadway Kwik Shop. If you believe this may pertain to you or someone you know, please&nbsp;contact investigators.

Anyone who was a victim, has surveillance footage (doorbell or security cameras), or possesses information related to these thefts, is asked to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-79-4120. To remain anonymous, please reach out to Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Great Bend Police Dept. seeking victims and information from Halloween burglaries

Booked in Paez, Anthony on Barton County District Court case #25-1287 for Driving under the influence 2nd conviction, bond set at $2,500.00 cash or surety.

Released Paez, Anthony on Barton County District Court case #25-1287 for Driving under the influence 2nd conviction, surety of $2,500.00 posted by Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked in Berryman, Gilbert II on Barton County District Court case #25-1286 for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, bond set at $2,500.00 cash or surety.

Released Berryman, Gilbert ll on Barton County District Court case #25-1286 for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, surety of $2,500.00 posted by ACE Bail Bonds.

Released Luce, Jeremy T. on Stafford County District Court warrant #SF2025CR0027 for Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1000 ft of a School, Distribute or Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Criminal Use of Explosives, Distribute or Possess with the Intent to Distribute Drug Paraphernalia, Aggravated Endangering of a Child, Aggravated Endangering of a Child, Aggravated Endangering of a Child, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, No Drug Tax Stamp, Identity Theft, Identity Theft, and Cruelty to Animals. Released by Order of the Court. Transferred to Osage County Sheriff's Office on their charges.

Released Dirreen, Alexandra L on Barton County District Court case BT2024CR0383 for Serve Sentence per order of the court.

Booked in Madden, Malach A. in Barton County District Court warrant #BT24JV19 for Probation Violation with a bond set at NO BOND.

Booked Queen, Danny W. on Great Bend Municipal Court case #25-2088 for Domestic Battery. Bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (12/17)

Thursday Patchy blowing dust between 9am and 5pm. Sunny, with a high near 51. Windy, with a northwest wind 20 to 25 mph increasing to 33 to 38 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph. Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24. Northwest wind 6 to 16 mph becoming south southwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 59. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. South wind 9 to 14 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 54. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 37.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 60.

Thursday's Weather (12/17)

Water supply to rural residences and agricultural operations without rural or public water systems is usually obtained from a private well or surface water supply. In Kansas, more than 73,000 individuals rely on private wells for a water supply. When public and rural water systems that use well water are added to the private well numbers, 34.6% of the Kansas population relies on groundwater for their water supply.

Municipal and rural water systems must maintain water quality standards specified by local, state, or federal requirements; however, owners of private wells are responsible for the water quality of their wells. Permanent contamination of groundwater can decrease property values, affect human and animal health, and involve legal liability.

Testing water from private wells has shown that some wells do not meet the safe drinking water standards used for public water systems. The primary reasons for this reduction in water quality from private wells include:

· contamination sources upslope or near the well;

· failure to construct the well in accordance with current standards;

· inadequate well maintenance and service; and

· lack of protection from activities that risk contamination.

Following the guidelines for recommended separation distance and direction from potential contamination sources when locating a well can help protect private well water quality. When private wells are appropriately sited and constructed, routine maintenance is required to ensure wells continue to be safe. Wells that do not receive regular maintenance are more likely to produce unsafe water.

Detailed information about properly constructing a well in a safe location and maintenance guidelines for existing wells can be found in two recently updated publications from K-State Research and Extension, says Stacie Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist: Private Wells – Safe Location MF3667 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/private-wells-safe-location_MF3667

Private Well Maintenance and Protection MF3666 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/private-well-maintenance-and-protection_MF3666

Testing Private Water Systems MF3655 https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/testing-private-water-systems_MF3655

Information provided by Stacie Minson, Extension Watershed Specialist, KCARE sedgett@ksu.edu

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: Private wells in Kansas - safe location and maintenance guidelines

Fuller Industries Inc. is joining forces with Cleaning By Jess and The Bin Wranglers to provide no-cost home cleaning services to area residents facing extreme living challenges.

​The collaborative effort focuses on restoring homes impacted by hoarding, bringing them back to livable, safe, and functional conditions. Cleaning By Jess has committed to restoring three houses initially, with plans to expand the program to more homes in the future.

​“Fuller is proud to be a part of this effort,” said Joe Mann, general manager of the longtime cleaning and janitorial manufacturer. The company donated a wide assortment of professional-grade products to the cause.

​“This is an example of how local businesses can step up to make a positive impact in the community,” Mann said. “We are excited to support Cleaning By Jess and The Bin Wranglers in their effort to make a difference in the Great Bend area.”

​The joint initiative aims to offer “dignity, hope, and a fresh start to individuals and families in desperate need,” said Jessica Lysinger, owner of Cleaning By Jess.

​"This kind of work isn't possible without community support, and we're thankful to stand alongside businesses, individuals, and partners who care," Lysinger said. "Our goal is to truly make a difference for families and individuals who need it most."

​The team is prepared to tackle difficult residential cleaning cases, transforming unsafe environments into healthy homes. In addition to Lysinger and Walker, the team includes Cleaning By Jess employees Abi Furlong and Phoebe Perkins, as well as volunteers Erin Perez and Arryonna Tatman.

​​"Thank you, Fuller Industries, for being part of something bigger," Lysinger added. "Their contribution helps make a real difference."

Organizers noted that while Fuller Industries provided the foundational supplies to underwrite the demanding work, private monetary donations via a GoFundMe account have also contributed to the effort.

<a>About Fuller Industries Inc.</a>

<a>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 Fullerindustriesllc.com.</a>

Fuller, Cleaning By Jes, Bin Wranglers partner in home cleaning effort

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) are launching a new safety campaign sharing safety guidance for western Kansas drivers traveling through areas with blowing dust and high winds.

A public service announcement (PSA) highlighting dangers in dust storms was created as part of the safety campaign. KDOT and KHP encourage media outlets, traffic safety partners and the public to share the PSA, which can be viewed at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FDoDWPzY_kRM%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019b2ce08836-2c666929-d097-4db3-8a40-6fbf5ddfb6a0-000000/s5DeDSPXr5GYi3AU79S1ODP7N79r7Cw8xpXWAat0zNM=436">https://youtu.be/DoDWPzY_kRM</a>.

Dust storms often occur from December to April. The region’s flat plains, open agricultural fields, ongoing drought conditions and strong wind patterns create an environment where hazardous dust storms can develop rapidly.

“In Kansas, a windy day can turn dangerous fast. Knowing how to react properly can save lives,” said&nbsp;Technical Trooper Tod Hileman.

Drivers are urged to prioritize safety over speed when encountering high winds or sudden reduced visibility. The high winds can create sudden gusts and cause larger vehicles, including large trucks, RVs and trailers, to sway or lose control.

Blowing dust adds another layer of danger, with visibility capable of dropping to zero within seconds. These sudden “brownout” conditions increase the likelihood of multi-vehicle crashes.

“It’s important to remember what to do in these situations, because these steps may be the difference between safety and disaster. We want the traveling public to be knowledgeable, so they can respond when visibility is low,” said&nbsp;KDOT Director of Safety Troy Whitworth.

The Pull Off, Lights Out campaign outlines several critical safety steps for motorists involving dust storms, which include:

Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather alerts and be aware of rapidly changing conditions throughout the region. For current road conditions and traffic information before you leave, visit Kandrive.gov or call 511.

Pull Off, Lights Out: KDOT, KHP launch Kansas dust storm safety campaign

The City of Great Bend recognized 13 employees for milestone anniversaries at its annual service award luncheon on Tuesday.

“We are very appreciative of these individuals’ commitment and service to the City of Great Bend over the years,” said City Administrator Logan Burns. “Their time, talent and efforts have greatly contributed to the successes of the city. We congratulate them on these hard-earn service awards!”

Four employees from the Fire/EMS Department reached their five-year tenure including Schlyer Cook, Christopher Kell, Jordan Elliott and Skyler Edwards.

Roberto Hernandez of the Public Lands Department and Zoo Director Ashley Burdick both completed a decade of service in 2025, while customer service representative Laryssa Howard marked her 15th year with the city.

Several members of the Fire and Police Departments surpassed 20 years in their roles. Battalion Chief Michael Reifschneider and Patrol Sgt. William Paden celebrated 20th anniversaries, as Battalion Chief Kevin Stansfield, Patrol Lt. Jason Settle and Fire/EMS Department Secretary Michele Hitschmann each reached 25 years.

Capping off the service awards was Laurie Bard, secretary of Public Works and Utilities, who celebrated 45 years with the City of Great Bend.  

The city extends its gratitude to these employees for their dedication and looks forward to many more great years of service.

City of Great Bend celebrates Service Award recipients

Booked in Dirreen, Alexandra L on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2024CR0383 for Probation Violation, bond set at NO BOND.

Released Weber, James L. Jr. to Kansas Department of Corrections.

Released Chapman, Daniel L, to Kansas Department of Corrections.

Booked in Ekker, Kelly A. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2023CR0197 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Defective Headlamps; bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Ekker, Kelly A. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2023CR0197 for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Defective Headlamps; after posting a $1,000.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Haines, Adyn on Barton County District court case #25-1285 for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No proof of Insurance, Basic Speed and no turn signal with a bond of $10,000.00 cash or surety.

Booked Fors, McKenzie M on McPherson County District Court Warrant #24CR248 for Failure to Appear with $2,500.00 Cash or Surety, and Barton County District Court case #25-1285 for Possession of Meth, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with a bond of $10,000.00 Cash or Surety

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (12/16)

$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 

- Nathan Broekelman, head coach of Barton CC Wrestling

- Kyle Kriegh, head coach of Great Bend Boys Basketball

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins are benching quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for rookie seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel says his decision to start Ewers on Sunday against the Bengals came down to who he felt gave the Dolphins the best chance to win. The decision came after Tagovailoa struggled in a 28-15 loss to Pittsburgh on Monday night that eliminated Miami from playoff contention. Tagovailoa leads the NFL with 15 interceptions and hasn’t played up to his contract after signing a four-year, $212.4 million extension in July 2024. He said he was disappointed by the benching and unsure what his future with the team will look like.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has started rehab after surgery to repair two torn knee ligaments. The team is optimistic he could return early next season. The surgery was performed Monday night in Dallas, a day after Mahomes was injured in a game against the Chargers. Recovery typically takes about nine months, but it varies. The Chiefs are out of playoff contention after losing to the Chargers. Backup Gardner Minshew will lead the team for the final three games. Several other key players are also dealing with injuries, including Rashee Rice, who is in the concussion protocol. Mahomes plans to continue his rehab in Kansas City.

NEW YORK (AP) — Rockets coach Ime Udoka has been fined $25,000 for criticizing officiating after Houston's overtime loss to the Nuggets on Monday. The NBA announced the fine Wednesday. Udoka expressed frustration in a postgame press conference, calling it "the most poorly officiated" game he's seen in a long time. The NBA's Last Two Minute Report revealed three incorrect calls in overtime, all favoring Denver. Those calls resulted in free throws that helped Denver secure a 128-125 win.

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Bills quarterback Josh Allen didn't know what to envision when he first arrived in Buffalo as a raw but promising prospect in 2018. Eight seasons later, he's the NFL's reigning MVP, a newlywed and expectant father after he and wife Hailee Steinfeld announced their pregnancy last week. The 29-year-old Allen said he's overjoyed about becoming a father and noted he's come a long way since his rookie season. What's been key is Allen balancing his private life and professional career amid the distractions that come with stardom. Allen has the Bills closing in on clinching their seventh straight playoff berth while working his way back into the MVP discussion.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press that Ani Kilambi is joining the Washington Nationals as their new general manager. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity on Wednesday because Kilambi’s hiring had not been announced yet. The 31-year-old had been an assistant GM with the Philadelphia Phillies. Kilambi is the latest young face to join president of baseball operations Paul Toboni in Washington. Kilambi takes over a job that was held for more than a decade and a half by Mike Rizzo, who was the GM in Washington since 2009 and added the title of president of baseball operations in 2013. Rizzo was fired in July during Washington’s sixth consecutive losing season.

AILSA CRAIG, Scotland (AP) — Ailsa Craig is an uninhabited isle off the coast of southwest Scotland and the source of the super-dense granite used to make curling stones for the Winter Olympics. It features both “common green” granite comprising the body of the stone and the “blue hone” granite that forms the running surface. Local company Kays Curling makes all the the curling stones for the Milan Cortina Winter Games. It has a history with the Olympics dating back to the first winter edition — 1924 in Chamonix, France. Kays produces up to 2,000 stones per year and Canada is its biggest market. Asian countries have been increasing their orders.

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Bears say they’re mulling a move to Northwest Indiana with their efforts to secure public funding they say they need to build an enclosed stadium in Illinois stalled. Team president Kevin Warren insisted in an open letter to fans that the team still prefers to build a new home on a tract of land it owns in suburban Arlington Heights, Illinois. He also said the Bears are not using the threat to cross state lines as leverage. Warren did not say where in Northwest Indiana the Bears would look to move. The Bears’ focus for a new home has fluctuated between a tract of land they own in Arlington Heights to the Chicago lakefront, and then back to the suburb.

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Graduate transfers Olivia Miles and Marta Suarez have helped No. 9 TCU get off to a 12-0 start. Miles and Suarez also just became only the second NCAA Division I teammates with triple-doubles in the same game. They are part of another transfer-replenished roster for the defending Big 12 champion Frogs, who play their conference opener Saturday against Kansas State. Miles has had three consecutive triple-doubles to go with the six she had while at Notre Dame. Suarez, who also played at California and Tennessee, had her first career triple-double Tuesday.

So much for home-field advantage in December. Nine road teams are favorites in Week 16, including two playing in matchups for first place in three of the four NFC divisions. The Los Angeles Rams face off against the Seattle Seahawks in a battle for first place in the NFC West on Thursday night. The Green Bay Packers take on the Chicago Bears for the second time in three weeks to determine first in the NFC North on Saturday night. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers go head-to-head in the first of two meetings over the final three weeks that will settle the NFC South. The Packers and Buccaneers each are road favorites on BetMGM Sportsbook while the Rams started as a favorite and now are a 1-point underdog.

Unlike last year’s debut of the 12-team College Football Playoff, weather should not be a factor in any of the first-round games Friday and Saturday. SEC teams Oklahoma, Mississippi and Texas A&amp;M and Oregon of the Big Ten are hosting and conditions will be far different from the brutal cold at 2024 northern hosts Notre Dame, Penn State and Ohio State. The Associated Press picks Oklahoma over Alabama, Texas A&amp;M over Miami, Mississippi over Tulane and Oregon over James Madison.

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE Final	Florida	3	Los Angeles	2	 Final	Utah	4	Detroit	1	 Final	St. Louis	1	Winnipeg	0	 Final	Carolina	4	Nashville	1	 Final SO	New Jersey	2	Vegas	1

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(7)Gonzaga	98	Campbell 70	 Final	(13)Vanderbilt	77	Memphis	70	 Final	(16)Alabama	104	South Florida	93	 Final	(23)Florida	102	St. Francis (PA)	61

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Thursday, December 18 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Friday December 19&nbsp; 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM Hits 106.9– H.S. Basketball Larned G&amp;B @ Kingman&nbsp; 5:45PM B104.3&nbsp; - Pratt G&amp;B @ Great Bend 6:30PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP First Round - Alabama @ Oklahoma Saturday, December 20 11:00AM 1590/95.5FM - CFP First Round - Miami, Fl @ Texas A&amp;M 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP First Round - Tulane @ Ole Miss 7:00PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP First Round - James Madison @ Oregon Sunday, December 21 12:00PM B104 - Chiefs Football - Kansas City @ Tennessee 12:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NFL Football - Tampa Bay @ Carolina Monday, December 22 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 6:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Jayhawk Basketball - Davidson @ Kansas Tuesday, December 23 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Boca Raton Bowl - Toledo vs Louisville 4:30PM 1590/95.5FM - New Orleans Bowl - Western Kentucky vs Southern Miss Thursday, December 25 - Christmas Day 6:00PM B104 - Chiefs Football - Denver @ Kansas City Friday, December 26 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Rate Bowl - New Mexico vs Minnesota Saturday, December 27 10:30AM 1590/95.5FM - Pinstripe Bowl - Penn State vs Clemson 2:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Pop Tarts Bowl - BYU vs Georgia Tech Sunday, December 28 12:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NFL Football - TBA Tuesday, December 30 4:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Music City Bowl - Tennessee vs Illinois 8:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Alamo Bowl - TCU vs USC Wednesday, December 31 10:30AM 1590/95.5FM - ReliaQuest Bowl - Iowa vs Vanderbilt 2:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Citrus Bowl - Michigan vs Texas 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP Playoffs - Ohio St. vs TBA Thursday, January 1 11:00AM 1590/95.5FM - CFP Playoffs - Texas Tech vs TBA 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP Playoffs - Indiana vs TBA 7:00PM 1590/95.5FM - CFP Playoffs - Georgia vs TBA Friday, January 2 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Liberty Bowl - Navy vs Cincinnati&nbsp; 7:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Duke's Mayo Bowl - Wake Forest vs Mississippi St. Saturday, December 3 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ UCF 1:45PM 1590/95.5FM - Cougar Basketball - Butler W&amp;M @ Barton

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

- Jeremy Coombs, head coach of Barton CC Men's Basketball

- Lyles Lashlee, head coach of Great Bend Track and Field

Wednesday on Sports Day(Watch)

Tuesday Boys Scores from the Associated Press

Fairfield 59, Wichita Central Christian 58

Hutchinson Central Christian 48, Macksville 33

Kapaun Mount Carmel 71, Wichita Bishop Carroll 61

New Heights Christian, Mo. 45, Baxter Springs 30

Pawnee Heights 48, Western Plains-Healy 42

Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 49, Riverton 40

Saint Mary's Academy &amp; College 62, Riley County 44

St. John/Tipton Catholic 68, Clifton-Clyde 39

Wichita Sunrise 62, Wichita Home School 56

----------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday Girls Scores from the Associated Press

Clifton-Clyde 53, St. John/Tipton Catholic 40

Tuesday Statewide Scores

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes underwent surgery in Dallas on Monday night to repair the ACL he tore in his left knee in a loss to the Chargers, and the team said in statement that he would begin the long rehabilitation process immediately.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Dan Cooper, a highly regarded orthopedist and the team physician of the Dallas Cowboys.

Mahomes tore the ligament when he was spun to the ground while trying to keep Kansas City’s postseason hopes alive late in the&nbsp;16-13 loss&nbsp;on Sunday. The team announced the severity of the injury in a statement later that night.

“I’ve had a good visit with him, a couple of different times. He’s in a good place,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said earlier Monday. “You know, he always feels like he let people down, but he comes back and he’s ready for the challenge ahead.”

There are a number of factors that go into how long the recovery time will be, including the severity of the tear. Most players are able to return to the field in six to 12 months, which means Mahomes should be back at some point next season.

Gardner Minshew will quarterback the Chiefs through the final three games of this season.

The Chiefs were eliminated from playoff contention for the first time in a decade Sunday with the loss to the Chargers, coupled with three other results that didn’t go their way. They had reached the past seven AFC championship games with Mahomes as the starter, winning three Super Bowls and losing two others along the way, including one to Philadelphia this past February.

“He'll attack it, just like he does everything else,” Reid said of the rehab. “There have been some pretty good quarterbacks that have had the same injury and done pretty well after they came back. He'll get after it, and he's got good people here to rehab him.”

That includes two of his current AFC rivals.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow tore both the ACL and MCL in his left knee in November 2020, and he recovered in time to play the next season, when he was voted the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year. Colts quarterback Daniel Jones tore his right ACL in November 2023 when he was with the Giants, and he came back to start Week 1 the following season.

Tom Brady tore his ACL and MCL in the Patriots' 2008 opener. He started all 16 games the next year and was voted NFL MVP.

The 30-year-old Mahomes has dodged such severe injuries for most of his career.

The worst may have come in 2019, when Mahomes dislocated his kneecap on a sneak against the Broncos. His most famous may have occurred during the 2022 playoffs, when he sustained a severe high ankle sprain; questions swirled around whether Mahomes would even be able to play the next week, and he not only did but eventually led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl title.

The Chiefs do not have another quarterback besides Mahomes signed for next season, so the last three weeks of this season could be an audition for Minshew, the veteran backup who finished out the loss to the Chargers on Sunday.

He completed three straight passes before an interception on a throw intended for Travis Kelce effectively ended the game.

“I've got a ton of confidence in Gardner,” Reid said. “I've watched him play with these other teams. He's started in the league. Our guys have confidence in him, and Chris Oladokun behind him will work, and he's been with us a while. Those are two guys we trust.”

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes undergoes ACL surgery in Dallas, begins long road to recovery

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 18 points and 10 rebounds to spur No. 17 Kansas to a 73-49 victory over Towson on Tuesday night.

Tre White had 16 points and a career-high six assists for the Jayhawks (9-3). Melvin Council, coming off&nbsp;a career-best 36-point performance&nbsp;in Saturday's&nbsp;overtime win&nbsp;over N.C. State, added 15 points.

Kansas improved to 273-9 at home against unranked opponents under coach Bill Self.

Sophomore guard Jamari McDowell started for preseason All-American Darryn Peterson, who missed an eighth game due to injury. Self said Peterson had quadriceps cramps.

Bidunga, who entered the night as the Big 12’s leading shot blocker, had two blocks in the first seven minutes and finished with three. He also scored KU’s first six points en route to his seventh career double-double.

A 6-foot-10 sophomore forward from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bidunga was 7 of 8 from the field and 4 of 7 from the line.

Dylan Williamson scored 19 points for Towson (6-5), which never led. The Tigers drew within nine early in the second half before KU went on a 10-2 run. Kansas led by 25 in the second half and held an opponent below 50 points for the second time this year.

Bryson Tiller added 11 points for the Jayhawks.

The Tigers managed just four assists, although they did finish with a 22-12 advantage in offensive rebounds.

Still, Towson shot only 27.5% from the field and finished 3 of 12 from 3-point range against the stingy Jayhawks.

KU didn’t commit a foul until 9:11 remained in the first half. The Jayhawks hit 10 of their first 13 field-goal attempts.

Flory Bidunga has 18 points and 10 rebounds as No. 17 Kansas beats Towson 73-49

GENEVA (AP) — FIFA slashed the price of some World Cup tickets for teams’ most loyal fans following a global backlash and some will get $60 seats for the final instead of being asked to pay $4,185. FIFA said Tuesday that some $60 tickets will be made available for every game at the tournament in North America, going to the national federations whose teams are playing. Those federations decide how to distribute them to loyal fans who have attended previous games at home and on the road. Fans worldwide reacted with shock and anger last week on seeing FIFA’s ticketing plans that gave participating teams no tickets in the lowest-priced category.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — OG Anunoby scored 28 points and Jalen Brunson added 25 as the New York Knicks rally to beat the Spurs 124-113 and win the NBA Cup. The Knicks can now hang a banner next to their 1973 NBA championship banner in Madison Square Garden. New York's Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds despite battling an injury. The Knicks dominated inside, outrebounding the Spurs 59-42. The Spurs led for much of the game, but the Knicks went on a 13-1 run late in the third quarter to take control. Each Knicks player with a standard contract earns an extra $318,560 for the win.

COURCHEVEL, France (AP) — Mikaela Shiffrin claimed a record-extending 105th World Cup victory after several of her top challengers went out during the opening run of a slalom night race. Shiffrin finished 1.55 seconds ahead of Swiss skier Camille Rast and 1.71 ahead of German racer Emma Aicher. Shiffrin has now won the opening four slaloms of the season and five straight including the final race of last season. Lara Colturi, Zrinka Ljutic and Katharina Liensberger each failed to finish the first run and Wendy Holdener crashed in the finish area. Up next Lindsey Vonn will be back in action this weekend for a downhill and a super-G in nearby Val d’Isere.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Receiver Davante Adams hasn't been ruled out for the Los Angeles Rams’ showdown at Seattle on Thursday night despite his hamstring injury. Coach Sean McVay said the NFC-leading Rams likely will wait until game time to make a final decision on the availability of the NFL’s touchdown receptions leader. The team remains hopeful Adams can play, although he won’t participate in their walk-throughs and practice Tuesday. Adams got hurt while running a long route in the fourth quarter of the Rams’ 41-34 comeback win over the Detroit Lions.

Top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz is parting ways with his longtime coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. Alcaraz announced the end of their seven-year partnership on Wednesday in a message on his social network. With Ferrero, Alcaraz has claimed six Grand Slam titles, including two French Open titles, two Wimbledon crowns, and two US Opens. Alcaraz expressed gratitude, saying Ferrero helped turn his childhood dreams into reality. He reflected on their journey, noting Ferrero's support both on and off the court, and shared his enjoyment of every step together.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel is considering a quarterback change after Tua Tagovailoa’s continued struggles this season. Those were magnified in Monday night’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers that eliminated Miami from playoff contention for the second straight season. Tagovailoa threw for just 65 yards through three quarters, and the areas in which he has appeared to regress were evident again, from questionable decision-making to a lack of mobility that has hampered him throughout the season. McDaniel said he would give “more clarity” on his quarterback decision on Wednesday.

LONDON (AP) — Anthony Joshua's promoter says it would be “an absolute disaster and awfully embarrassing" if the British fighter lost to Jake Paul or was even taken the distance in their eight-round bout. Writing in a column for the BBC, Eddie Hearn acknowledges it is “crazy" that Joshua is getting in the ring with Paul, a YouTuber-turned-boxer. The 36-year-old Joshua is a former two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist. Hearn says the fight is part of a strategy to reignite the 36-year-old Joshua’s career while also giving him “one of his career-high paydays” for a bout on Friday that will be shown on Netflix.

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Macklin Celebrini has become the fastest San Jose player to reach 50 points in a season. He achieved the milestone with a spectacular spin-o-rama goal during a four-point night as the Sharks defeated the Calgary Flames 6-3 on Tuesday. Celebrini, just 19 and in his second NHL season, has 18 goals and 33 assists in 34 games. Only Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby reached 50 points faster as teenagers. Celebrini's performance is a key factor in San Jose's current playoff position after the team struggled mightily in previous seasons. His exceptional play is gaining him respect across the league.

Curt Cignetti has been named The Associated Press coach of the year in college football for the second consecutive season. He is the first coach to win the award back-to-back since it was first presented in 1998. Cignetti has led Indiana to unprecedented success, with a 24-2 record over two seasons. The Hoosiers are 13-0 this year, Big Ten champions for the first time since 1967, and the top seed in the College Football Playoff. Cignetti received 47 first-place votes. Texas Tech’s Joey McGuire and Vanderbilt’s Clark Lea received two each, and Virginia’s Tony Elliott got one.

Terence Crawford has announced his retirement from boxing. The 38-year-old is going out on top, having claimed the title of best pound-four-pound boxer with a convincing victory over Canelo Alvarez in September. Crawford is the only male boxer to capture three unified division titles, which he accomplished with that unanimous decision over Alvarez before 70,482 fans at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. That gave Crawford the super middleweight championship and a 42-0 record with 31 knockouts. His final 20 bouts came with a belt on the line. In a video released Tuesday, Crawford says he's at peace with his decision.

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE Final	Vancouver	3	N-Y Rangers	0	 Final OT	Columbus	4	Anaheim	3	 Final	Detroit	3	N-Y Islanders	2	 Final	Toronto	3	Chicago	2	 Final	Boston	4	Utah	1	 Final	Philadelphia	4	Montreal	1	 Final	Edmonton	6	Pittsburgh	4	 Final	Minnesota	5	Washington	0	 Final	San Jose	6	Calgary	3	 Final	Colorado	5	Seattle	3

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(1)Arizona	96	Abilene Christian	62	 Final	(3)Duke	97	Lipscomb	73	 Final	(5)UConn	79	Butler	60	 Final	(9)Michigan State	92	Toledo	69	 Final	(10)BYU	93	Pacific	57	 Final	(20)Tennessee	83	(11)Louisville	62	 Final	(12)North Carolina	77	East Tennessee State	58	 Final	(14)Arkansas	108	Queens	80	 Final	(17)Kansas	73	Towson	49	 Final	(19)Texas Tech	101	Northern Colorado	90	 Final	(22)St. John's	79	DePaul	66

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

St. John 77 Larned 66; Larned Girls 33 St. John 32

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Sterling Boys 65 Hoisington 26; Hoisington Girls 60 Sterling 57

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.

President Trump on Thursday signed an executive order that would&nbsp;reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug&nbsp;and open new avenues for medical research, a major shift in federal drug policy that inches closer to what many states have done.

The switch would move marijuana away from its current classification as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD. Cannabis would instead be a Schedule III substance, like ketamine and some anabolic steroids.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation responded to the President's Executive Order and reminded the public, "rescheduling is not the same as legalization."

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