As
this is written the drought monitor report isn’t available, however, much of
our area and the state received very beneficial rains over the last ten days
with more forecast for Christmas weekend.&nbsp;
Conditions certainly won’t worsen and depending on this weekend’s
precipitation may improve.&nbsp; Keep your
fingers crossed.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (December 25 to 29) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (December 27
to January 2) indicates a continued 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and normal to a 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; Certainly, a much wetter holiday season than
the last few.

Last week discussed some top
national ag stories.&nbsp; This week what are
the some of the top stories for Kansas and our area.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weather,
specifically the drought, would likely make everyone’s number one story.&nbsp; For much of the year, Kansas was the
epicenter of extreme and exceptional drought for the lower forty-eight
states.&nbsp; Conditions in much of Western
Kansas improved dramatically from mid-summer towards fall and even some in our
area.&nbsp; The wheat crop was significantly
hurt.&nbsp; The rains did help produce overall
better yields for summer crops than 2022.&nbsp;
Pastures deteriorated even more though summer rains helped some.&nbsp; Many thinned cattle herds even further and
some herds were eliminated.&nbsp; We have
transitioned from an extreme La Nina to an El Nino and precipitation patterns
have changed for the better.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Water,
specifically groundwater and some reservoirs, is disappearing.&nbsp; Ground water depletion in the Ogallala
Aquifer is sounding alarm bells across Western Kansas and in Topeka.&nbsp; This is a major area of concern and interest
no only for producers and the legislature but for many communities large and
small.&nbsp; Some are taking emergency steps
to conserve water.&nbsp; Groundwater
Management Districts are tasked with taking steps to improve accountability and
conserve.&nbsp; In our immediate area there is
the dispute between Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and area irrigators with a
temporary pause in litigation while the two sides try to work out a viable plan
to supply adequate water to the refuge.&nbsp; Cheyenne
Bottoms is also struggling to provide adequate water for migratory waterfowl
and shorebirds.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas
producers are also keenly interested in Congress passing the next Farm
Bill.&nbsp; This goes along with climate
change concerns and prices.&nbsp; While fuel
prices have dropped dramatically and other input prices are better, producers
need better commodity prices.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our
area is involved in the implementation of solar energy in our area.&nbsp; Not just near Cheyenne Bottoms but in Barton
and Pawnee Counties.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A
last one that may seem a bit off the wall – quality of life.&nbsp; From Medicaid expansion to broadband access
and affordable housing along with a lack of qualified labor, rural areas of
Kansas face challenges to improve quality life to maintain and grow rural
Kansas.

Merry Christmas, Happy
New Year and Happy Holidays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682025352095.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>As
this is written the drought monitor report isn’t available, however, much of
our area and the state received very beneficial rains over the last ten days
with more forecast for Christmas weekend.&nbsp;
Conditions certainly won’t worsen and depending on this weekend’s
precipitation may improve.&nbsp; Keep your
fingers crossed.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (December 25 to 29) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and a 33 to 40% chance of above normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (December 27
to January 2) indicates a continued 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and normal to a 40% chance of below normal precipitation.&nbsp; Certainly, a much wetter holiday season than
the last few.Last week discussed some top
national ag stories.&nbsp; This week what are
the some of the top stories for Kansas and our area.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weather,
specifically the drought, would likely make everyone’s number one story.&nbsp; For much of the year, Kansas was the
epicenter of extreme and exceptional drought for the lower forty-eight
states.&nbsp; Conditions in much of Western
Kansas improved dramatically from mid-summer towards fall and even some in our
area.&nbsp; The wheat crop was significantly
hurt.&nbsp; The rains did help produce overall
better yields for summer crops than 2022.&nbsp;
Pastures deteriorated even more though summer rains helped some.&nbsp; Many thinned cattle herds even further and
some herds were eliminated.&nbsp; We have
transitioned from an extreme La Nina to an El Nino and precipitation patterns
have changed for the better.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Water,
specifically groundwater and some reservoirs, is disappearing.&nbsp; Ground water depletion in the Ogallala
Aquifer is sounding alarm bells across Western Kansas and in Topeka.&nbsp; This is a major area of concern and interest
no only for producers and the legislature but for many communities large and
small.&nbsp; Some are taking emergency steps
to conserve water.&nbsp; Groundwater
Management Districts are tasked with taking steps to improve accountability and
conserve.&nbsp; In our immediate area there is
the dispute between Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and area irrigators with a
temporary pause in litigation while the two sides try to work out a viable plan
to supply adequate water to the refuge.&nbsp; Cheyenne
Bottoms is also struggling to provide adequate water for migratory waterfowl
and shorebirds.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas
producers are also keenly interested in Congress passing the next Farm
Bill.&nbsp; This goes along with climate
change concerns and prices.&nbsp; While fuel
prices have dropped dramatically and other input prices are better, producers
need better commodity prices.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our
area is involved in the implementation of solar energy in our area.&nbsp; Not just near Cheyenne Bottoms but in Barton
and Pawnee Counties.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A
last one that may seem a bit off the wall – quality of life.&nbsp; From Medicaid expansion to broadband access
and affordable housing along with a lack of qualified labor, rural areas of
Kansas face challenges to improve quality life to maintain and grow rural
Kansas.Merry Christmas, Happy
New Year and Happy Holidays.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Top Local Ag Stories 2023

A tradition for many around the state of Kansas it to begin the New Year with a little exercise. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has several first-day hiking events planned for Monday, Jan. 1.

Glen Elder State Park between Cawker City and Glen Elder will host a hike from 9 a.m. to noon. The 3-mile hike begins at the Waconda Trail. A 2-mile walk at the Flint Hills Trail-Council Grove Trailhead goes from 9-11 a.m. The walk at Webster State Park northwest of Plainville runs from 10 a.m. to noon. A limited number of T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and hot chocolate and hot dogs will be provided after the hike. Lake Milford near Manhattan will host a 2.18-mile walk from 1-3p.m. That event takes place on the Crystal Trail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703261276927.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A tradition for many around the state of Kansas it to begin the New Year with a little exercise. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has several first-day hiking events planned for Monday, Jan. 1.Glen Elder State Park between Cawker City and Glen Elder will host a hike from 9 a.m. to noon. The 3-mile hike begins at the Waconda Trail. A 2-mile walk at the Flint Hills Trail-Council Grove Trailhead goes from 9-11 a.m. The walk at Webster State Park northwest of Plainville runs from 10 a.m. to noon. A limited number of T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and hot chocolate and hot dogs will be provided after the hike. Lake Milford near Manhattan will host a 2.18-mile walk from 1-3p.m. That event takes place on the Crystal Trail.

KDWP planning several first-day hikes on Jan. 1

Refresh – Webster’s Dictionary defines refresh as to restore strength and animation, or to restore or maintain by renewing supply.

A book I am reading described busy times, and especially the holidays, as a singer trying to maintain a high note without a breath. I like this analogy as we can get caught in the busyness of any season and forget what it feels like to just stop and rest; to truly refresh.

In our 4-H world, many people don’t realize that the number of tasks, planning, and events are just as busy in October, November, and December as we are during the fair. It is very much trying to maintain that high note without a breath!

In the midst of holiday gatherings, community events, and family activities, I hope that each of you can set aside the lists and hurry to slow down and enjoy the people around you. A friend modeled this over the weekend; she had dozens of tasks on her to-do list but realized that one of her favorite musicals was on tv. She stopped and enjoyed a couple of hours getting caught up in the familiar songs and story. Yes, she still had lots to do but that break helped her to feel refreshed and ready to tackle her list in a different way.

Kids can absolutely help with many tasks on our list. Does it take a little longer? Possibly! But you may also be helping them learn important skills and building memories in ways that you can’t begin to imagine! Will they do it exactly as you would? Maybe not but keep the focus on their help and the learning process.

My own family does things a little differently than I do whether household tasks, yard work, or cooking and I have learned to just roll with it! My husband folds towels differently than I do; it doesn’t make it wrong and, at the end of the day, the towels are folded and put away!

Our offices will be closed from December 23 through January 1 as we also take time to rest and refresh! My holiday wish for each of you is a bit of time to refresh your own spirit and schedule.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Refresh – Webster’s Dictionary defines refresh as to restore strength and animation, or to restore or maintain by renewing supply.A book I am reading described busy times, and especially the holidays, as a singer trying to maintain a high note without a breath. I like this analogy as we can get caught in the busyness of any season and forget what it feels like to just stop and rest; to truly refresh.In our 4-H world, many people don’t realize that the number of tasks, planning, and events are just as busy in October, November, and December as we are during the fair. It is very much trying to maintain that high note without a breath!In the midst of holiday gatherings, community events, and family activities, I hope that each of you can set aside the lists and hurry to slow down and enjoy the people around you. A friend modeled this over the weekend; she had dozens of tasks on her to-do list but realized that one of her favorite musicals was on tv. She stopped and enjoyed a couple of hours getting caught up in the familiar songs and story. Yes, she still had lots to do but that break helped her to feel refreshed and ready to tackle her list in a different way.Kids can absolutely help with many tasks on our list. Does it take a little longer? Possibly! But you may also be helping them learn important skills and building memories in ways that you can’t begin to imagine! Will they do it exactly as you would? Maybe not but keep the focus on their help and the learning process.My own family does things a little differently than I do whether household tasks, yard work, or cooking and I have learned to just roll with it! My husband folds towels differently than I do; it doesn’t make it wrong and, at the end of the day, the towels are folded and put away!Our offices will be closed from December 23 through January 1 as we also take time to rest and refresh! My holiday wish for each of you is a bit of time to refresh your own spirit and schedule.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

Beran: Remember to take time to refresh

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

There are organizations that help area communities thrive. Then there are the organizations that make that help possible. Sunflower Bank recently donated nearly $80,000 to non-profits in five states, including Kansas. Sunflower Bank Community Development Officer Becca Maxwell said that included two organizations in Great Bend.

"This is the very first year we were able to do the Community Partner Award in this capacity," she said. "We actually let our employees vote, so they had the empowerment to choose which recipients receive the money. Organizations were nominated both by Sunflower Bank employees and the public."

Sunflower gave the Family Crisis Center $5,000 for the In the Lives We Touch Award. Another $3,000 was given to United Way of Central Kansas for the Bringing Out the Best Award. Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, which serves 31 counties including Russell and Ellsworth, received the top donation of $15,000.

"We want to make sure we are meeting the credit needs and supporting our communities," Maxwell said. "We want to recognize those outstanding organizations and individuals in our communities, especially throughout the year, then again with this Community Partner Award. This program aims to support ongoing community projects, and it's just great to be able to assist organizations in our communities by doing this each year."

Sunflower employees and members of the public were able to nominate organizations in Kansas, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico from Oct. 11 through Nov. 13. A total of 17 non-profits received donations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703259018808.jpeg" alt="Sunflower Bank donated a total of $8,000 to The Family Crisis Center and United Way of Central Kansas earlier this month as part of its Community Partner Awards." />
 <figcaption>Sunflower Bank donated a total of $8,000 to The Family Crisis Center and United Way of Central Kansas earlier this month as part of its Community Partner Awards.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThere are organizations that help area communities thrive. Then there are the organizations that make that help possible. Sunflower Bank recently donated nearly $80,000 to non-profits in five states, including Kansas. Sunflower Bank Community Development Officer Becca Maxwell said that included two organizations in Great Bend."This is the very first year we were able to do the Community Partner Award in this capacity," she said. "We actually let our employees vote, so they had the empowerment to choose which recipients receive the money. Organizations were nominated both by Sunflower Bank employees and the public."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683838708992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower gave the Family Crisis Center $5,000 for the In the Lives We Touch Award. Another $3,000 was given to United Way of Central Kansas for the Bringing Out the Best Award. Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, which serves 31 counties including Russell and Ellsworth, received the top donation of $15,000."We want to make sure we are meeting the credit needs and supporting our communities," Maxwell said. "We want to recognize those outstanding organizations and individuals in our communities, especially throughout the year, then again with this Community Partner Award. This program aims to support ongoing community projects, and it's just great to be able to assist organizations in our communities by doing this each year."Sunflower employees and members of the public were able to nominate organizations in Kansas, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico from Oct. 11 through Nov. 13. A total of 17 non-profits received donations.

Sunflower Bank gives to two Great Bend non-profits ahead of holidays

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a stream advisory for Rattlesnake Creek in Stafford County from 80th&nbsp;Ave to the Little Salt Marsh. The advisory was issued on Sept. 13, 2023.

The stream advisory was the result of&nbsp;release of produced water and crude oil from oil and gas production. Water sampling indicates that tested bacteria and contaminant levels are within normal range. KDHE has deemed the stream safe for secondary (wading) contact and livestock use.&nbsp;

To view the original stream advisory,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=810" target="_blank">click here</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692907085194.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a stream advisory for Rattlesnake Creek in Stafford County from 80th&nbsp;Ave to the Little Salt Marsh. The advisory was issued on Sept. 13, 2023.The stream advisory was the result of&nbsp;release of produced water and crude oil from oil and gas production. Water sampling indicates that tested bacteria and contaminant levels are within normal range. KDHE has deemed the stream safe for secondary (wading) contact and livestock use.&nbsp;To view the original stream advisory,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=810" target="_blank">click here</a>

Stream advisory rescinded for Rattlesnake Creek in Stafford Co.

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.9% in November, according to a media release from the agency. This is unchanged from 2.9% in October and unchanged from 2.9% in November 2022.

“The Kansas unemployment rate remains near historic lows at 2.9% as the state’s labor market remains tight,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “The unemployment rate has been very stable and was unchanged from last month and from November 2022.”

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,700 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 2,100 over the month, while government increased by 600.

The unemployment rate in Barton County is down from 3 percent in October to 1.9 percent. Pawnee County is also at 1.9 percent. The rate is down significantly in counties across the region.

Since November 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 14,300. This change is due to an increase of 6,600 private sector jobs and an increase of 7,700 government jobs.

<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for</a> the complete Kansas labor market information for November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703260472059.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.9% in November, according to a media release from the agency. This is unchanged from 2.9% in October and unchanged from 2.9% in November 2022.“The Kansas unemployment rate remains near historic lows at 2.9% as the state’s labor market remains tight,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “The unemployment rate has been very stable and was unchanged from last month and from November 2022.”Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,700 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 2,100 over the month, while government increased by 600.The unemployment rate in Barton County is down from 3 percent in October to 1.9 percent. Pawnee County is also at 1.9 percent. The rate is down significantly in counties across the region.Since November 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 14,300. This change is due to an increase of 6,600 private sector jobs and an increase of 7,700 government jobs.<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for</a> the complete Kansas labor market information for November.

Jobless rate down in Barton County, across the state

Well over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. The person who owns the land doesn’t farm it. As such, agricultural leases are very crucial to most producers. Additionally, many agricultural leases are oral agreements. There is no written and signed lease agreement, it’s word of mouth and a handshake. Roughly forty years ago about 90% of all ag leases were oral. It’s now a lower percentage of that, but there are still many oral leases. Kansas statutes recognize oral ag leases as legal and binding, but there are numerous stipulations that govern them.

All oral leases are annual leases that run from March 1 to March 1 and renew automatically unless they are properly terminated. For a lease to be properly terminated it must meet three requirements. First, the notice to terminate must be in writing. Furthermore, it must state that the termination date is March 1 and the notice must be in the tenant’s hands 30 days prior to March 1. Any attempt to terminate a lease that does not meet these three criteria is not legally binding and the lease continues for another year at the terms agreed upon for the previous year.

January is when many leases are renegotiated. It is important to get these negotiations wrapped up soon because if the tenant and landlord cannot agree on new terms, notice needs to be given 30 days prior to March 1st. Kansas statutes treat pasture or range land the same as crop land.

Written leases can state other dates and contain many other stipulations into use of the land. But with an oral lease, in the eyes of the law, the tenant has full control for the entire year of that land including hunting rights. Which are some of the reasons why Extension really encourages written leases!

There are some considerations and exceptions that I need to note. If wheat was already planted on the farmland at the time that proper notice of termination was given, the tenant still has the right to harvest that wheat. Cash rent will be paid as per the prior year’s lease or expenses and crop shared at the previously agreed upon terms. For those acres planted to wheat the lease ends when the crop is harvested. If a perennial forage crop such as alfalfa was planted last fall and a stand was established, then the landowner owes the tenant for all seed, fertilizer, etc., that was used to establish that perennial crop.

The other area that may cause some issues is in fields that will be planted to spring crops. Some of these fields may have already been fertilized this past fall after harvest. Some may even have had herbicides put on for early season weed control pre-plant. If the tenant has applied these inputs and then is terminated properly by the landlord, the landlord owes the tenant for the fertilizer and/or weed control in addition to standard application charges. For cash rent leases that would be the full amount of the inputs applied, for crop share leases it would be the share that the tenant has paid for.

Lastly to avoid terminating leases—communication is so vitally important for both parties to visit at least a few times a year. By doing this hopefully questions and concerns can be talked about and addressed before they become problems.

For further information on leasing agricultural land go to www.agmanager.info click onto the Farm Management tab. Also, you can contact your local County or District Extension Office. The Cottonwood Extension Offices, Hays 785-628-9430 and Great Bend 620-793-1910.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Well over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. The person who owns the land doesn’t farm it. As such, agricultural leases are very crucial to most producers. Additionally, many agricultural leases are oral agreements. There is no written and signed lease agreement, it’s word of mouth and a handshake. Roughly forty years ago about 90% of all ag leases were oral. It’s now a lower percentage of that, but there are still many oral leases. Kansas statutes recognize oral ag leases as legal and binding, but there are numerous stipulations that govern them.All oral leases are annual leases that run from March 1 to March 1 and renew automatically unless they are properly terminated. For a lease to be properly terminated it must meet three requirements. First, the notice to terminate must be in writing. Furthermore, it must state that the termination date is March 1 and the notice must be in the tenant’s hands 30 days prior to March 1. Any attempt to terminate a lease that does not meet these three criteria is not legally binding and the lease continues for another year at the terms agreed upon for the previous year.January is when many leases are renegotiated. It is important to get these negotiations wrapped up soon because if the tenant and landlord cannot agree on new terms, notice needs to be given 30 days prior to March 1st. Kansas statutes treat pasture or range land the same as crop land.Written leases can state other dates and contain many other stipulations into use of the land. But with an oral lease, in the eyes of the law, the tenant has full control for the entire year of that land including hunting rights. Which are some of the reasons why Extension really encourages written leases!There are some considerations and exceptions that I need to note. If wheat was already planted on the farmland at the time that proper notice of termination was given, the tenant still has the right to harvest that wheat. Cash rent will be paid as per the prior year’s lease or expenses and crop shared at the previously agreed upon terms. For those acres planted to wheat the lease ends when the crop is harvested. If a perennial forage crop such as alfalfa was planted last fall and a stand was established, then the landowner owes the tenant for all seed, fertilizer, etc., that was used to establish that perennial crop.The other area that may cause some issues is in fields that will be planted to spring crops. Some of these fields may have already been fertilized this past fall after harvest. Some may even have had herbicides put on for early season weed control pre-plant. If the tenant has applied these inputs and then is terminated properly by the landlord, the landlord owes the tenant for the fertilizer and/or weed control in addition to standard application charges. For cash rent leases that would be the full amount of the inputs applied, for crop share leases it would be the share that the tenant has paid for.Lastly to avoid terminating leases—communication is so vitally important for both parties to visit at least a few times a year. By doing this hopefully questions and concerns can be talked about and addressed before they become problems.For further information on leasing agricultural land go to www.agmanager.info click onto the Farm Management tab. Also, you can contact your local County or District Extension Office. The Cottonwood Extension Offices, Hays 785-628-9430 and Great Bend 620-793-1910.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: Agriculture lease deadline

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/6070c0b8-d6c6-4be8-bed2-71865d54a236">Great Bend organizations handing out 300 more pounds of deer meat</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/64c891d0-52ed-411f-9e3b-9e3ac51f4244">Barton Commission extends solar moratorium through March 2024</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e5ead74e-5eee-4c2b-988d-dfe098077d0d">Kuhn wins Eagle Radio's Shop at Home for the Holidays $10,000 prize</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703007391709.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission vote 3-2 to extend a moratorium on commercial solar development in the county to March 31, 2024." />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission vote 3-2 to extend a moratorium on commercial solar development in the county to March 31, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/qb50zW2F-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="News Week In Review Dec17 To Dec24" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/6070c0b8-d6c6-4be8-bed2-71865d54a236">Great Bend organizations handing out 300 more pounds of deer meat</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/64c891d0-52ed-411f-9e3b-9e3ac51f4244">Barton Commission extends solar moratorium through March 2024</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e5ead74e-5eee-4c2b-988d-dfe098077d0d">Kuhn wins Eagle Radio's Shop at Home for the Holidays $10,000 prize</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

Each winter, the National Audobon Society conducts hundreds of Christmas Bird Counts around the nation, including approximately 40 in Kansas. The Cheyenne Bottoms count, which covers a 15-mile radius that touches most communities in Barton County, was held on Dec. 18. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said the count went from 61 species last year to 77 species this year.

"Overall, I'd say the number of birds we documented this year was pretty typical," he said. "Because the winter has been relatively mild so far, I thought we had a chance to get some additional shorebirds and some other wetland birds. We didn't find them like we thought. We definitely missed a few species I thought we could have seen just because of what the conditions have been like this winter."

Nineteen volunteers helped with the count this year, up from 16 a year ago. The mild winter has kept birds in the area with 15 species of waterfowl counted, and 147,345 total birds counted. A snow geese count of 126,049 birds - the highest recorded for the Bottoms count - played a large role in that figure. Just 339 red-winged blackbirds, the second-lowest figure in the last 15 years, kept the overall number down.

"Obviously, the conditions and weather we have that time of year can have a huge effect on the number of birds we see," Wolf said. "Probably one of the big things we've noticed is the lack of red-winged blackbirds. In years past, we've estimated well over a million red-winged blackbirds in the area with some of those huge flocks."

Wolf said cattail control at the Bottoms is likely the reason the blackbirds have gone away. "That's the type of information that the Christmas Bird County is trying to document and monitor," he said. "Having only 300 red-winged blackbirds on the count is pretty telling about some of the conditions for that particular bird."

Twenty-five bald eagles were counted, along with five least sandpipers, which made the count for just the third time. A lesser black-backed gull made an appearance for just the second time, and 30 rusty blackbirds marked a fifth year in the count. The 160 mourning doves counted was the highest ever in the count. Fifty-five sandhill cranes flew over the KWEC just after noon, and 626 meadowlarks were counted throughout the day, including several at the KWEC. Absent for this year's count were prairie falcons, loggerhead shrikes, and brown-headed cowbirds to name a few.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699889973238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEach winter, the National Audobon Society conducts hundreds of Christmas Bird Counts around the nation, including approximately 40 in Kansas. The Cheyenne Bottoms count, which covers a 15-mile radius that touches most communities in Barton County, was held on Dec. 18. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said the count went from 61 species last year to 77 species this year."Overall, I'd say the number of birds we documented this year was pretty typical," he said. "Because the winter has been relatively mild so far, I thought we had a chance to get some additional shorebirds and some other wetland birds. We didn't find them like we thought. We definitely missed a few species I thought we could have seen just because of what the conditions have been like this winter."Nineteen volunteers helped with the count this year, up from 16 a year ago. The mild winter has kept birds in the area with 15 species of waterfowl counted, and 147,345 total birds counted. A snow geese count of 126,049 birds - the highest recorded for the Bottoms count - played a large role in that figure. Just 339 red-winged blackbirds, the second-lowest figure in the last 15 years, kept the overall number down."Obviously, the conditions and weather we have that time of year can have a huge effect on the number of birds we see," Wolf said. "Probably one of the big things we've noticed is the lack of red-winged blackbirds. In years past, we've estimated well over a million red-winged blackbirds in the area with some of those huge flocks."Wolf said cattail control at the Bottoms is likely the reason the blackbirds have gone away. "That's the type of information that the Christmas Bird County is trying to document and monitor," he said. "Having only 300 red-winged blackbirds on the count is pretty telling about some of the conditions for that particular bird."Twenty-five bald eagles were counted, along with five least sandpipers, which made the count for just the third time. A lesser black-backed gull made an appearance for just the second time, and 30 rusty blackbirds marked a fifth year in the count. The 160 mourning doves counted was the highest ever in the count. Fifty-five sandhill cranes flew over the KWEC just after noon, and 626 meadowlarks were counted throughout the day, including several at the KWEC. Absent for this year's count were prairie falcons, loggerhead shrikes, and brown-headed cowbirds to name a few.

Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count numbers up from 2022

A documentary about former Claflin High School standout Jackie Stiles was released to the public last year. "The Jackie Stiles Story" will re-air on Friday, Dec. 22 at 9 p.m. on PBS.&nbsp;

Read more about the documentary here: <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f08cf393-e4bf-4468-8cb9-89ad7b6dab5f">Jackie Stiles Story now available to stream</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703260572707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A documentary about former Claflin High School standout Jackie Stiles was released to the public last year. "The Jackie Stiles Story" will re-air on Friday, Dec. 22 at 9 p.m. on PBS.&nbsp;Read more about the documentary here: <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f08cf393-e4bf-4468-8cb9-89ad7b6dab5f">Jackie Stiles Story now available to stream</a>

Jackie Stiles documentary to re-air tonight at 9 p.m.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1vLx27MX6tM?si=lJFOVPeAtwVvITvh" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.

🎤 Forward Ever: Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert

It didn’t take long for Kathryn Buchanan to notice that the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) team is “patient-oriented with a real sense of community spirit.”

Buchanan is the new family nurse practitioner at PVCH Family Medicine, 713 W. 11th in Larned. She began seeing patients Dec. 11.

“I specialize in family medicine and look forward to meeting my new patients in the coming weeks and months,” Buchanan said. “I will care for and treat patients with acute and chronic diseases and conditions from age 2 and older.”

Buchanan, an Ellinwood resident, noted she is “impressed with the wide variety of PVCH services and up-to-date equipment. This illustrates to me that one of the hospital’s priorities is offering as much quality healthcare as possible close to home.

“In addition, from day one, the environment here has been welcoming. There is a genuine sense of community among staff members who are always willing to help patients and their colleagues. This is important to me.”

Buchanan, who is originally from Mississippi, earned an associate’s degree in nursing in 2019 and bachelor’s degree in nursing the following year. Both degrees were awarded by Mississippi University for Women.

Next came her master’s in nursing/family nurse practitioner earlier this year at The University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Buchanan’s professional background includes serving the Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department as a registered nurse at North Mississippi Medical Center; registered nurse at Mississippi HomeCare; and med-surg nurse at The University of Kansas Health System.

Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, noted that “in the brief time Kathryn has been here, she is already demonstrating her practitioner skills, as well as her compassion towards her patients. Kathryn’s talents mesh well with our mission to provide high-quality healthcare right here at home.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703172214654.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It didn’t take long for Kathryn Buchanan to notice that the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) team is “patient-oriented with a real sense of community spirit.”Buchanan is the new family nurse practitioner at PVCH Family Medicine, 713 W. 11th in Larned. She began seeing patients Dec. 11.“I specialize in family medicine and look forward to meeting my new patients in the coming weeks and months,” Buchanan said. “I will care for and treat patients with acute and chronic diseases and conditions from age 2 and older.”Buchanan, an Ellinwood resident, noted she is “impressed with the wide variety of PVCH services and up-to-date equipment. This illustrates to me that one of the hospital’s priorities is offering as much quality healthcare as possible close to home.“In addition, from day one, the environment here has been welcoming. There is a genuine sense of community among staff members who are always willing to help patients and their colleagues. This is important to me.”Buchanan, who is originally from Mississippi, earned an associate’s degree in nursing in 2019 and bachelor’s degree in nursing the following year. Both degrees were awarded by Mississippi University for Women.Next came her master’s in nursing/family nurse practitioner earlier this year at The University of Mississippi Medical Center.Buchanan’s professional background includes serving the Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department as a registered nurse at North Mississippi Medical Center; registered nurse at Mississippi HomeCare; and med-surg nurse at The University of Kansas Health System.Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, noted that “in the brief time Kathryn has been here, she is already demonstrating her practitioner skills, as well as her compassion towards her patients. Kathryn’s talents mesh well with our mission to provide high-quality healthcare right here at home.”

Buchanan joins PVCH Family Medicine team

Christmas may not be until Dec. 25, but the 20th Judicial District's Juvenile Services All Star program received a pair of allocations during the Dec. 19 Barton County Commission meeting. The program, which is aimed at area elementary students to help prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other illicit substances, was transferred its usual $3,000 from the county via a resolution. County Administrator Matt Patzner also asked for a transfer of $3,985 to the program from the Special Alcohol Fund.

"Per Kansas statute, Special Alcohol Funding shall only be expended for the purchase, establishment, maintenance, or expansion of services or programs whose principal purpose is alcoholism and drug abuse prevention and education," he told the commission.

That includes drug and alcohol abuse detox, intervention in alcohol and drug abuse, or treatment of persons who are already or may become alcoholics drug abusers. Commissioners asked if the funds be split with other programs like D.A.R.E. and those provided by Community Corrections. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman explained why that could be difficult.

"We used to receive quite a bit more funding than what we do now  - at least $7-8,000 a few years back," she said. "The funds have dwindled because we just don't have that many establishments outside city limits that are selling. It's hard to divvy it up when the pot of money is so small."

County office buildings will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 26 for Christmas. For that reason, the next Barton County Commission meeting will be Thursday, Dec. 28 at 9 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703175271301.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostChristmas may not be until Dec. 25, but the 20th Judicial District's Juvenile Services All Star program received a pair of allocations during the Dec. 19 Barton County Commission meeting. The program, which is aimed at area elementary students to help prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other illicit substances, was transferred its usual $3,000 from the county via a resolution. County Administrator Matt Patzner also asked for a transfer of $3,985 to the program from the Special Alcohol Fund."Per Kansas statute, Special Alcohol Funding shall only be expended for the purchase, establishment, maintenance, or expansion of services or programs whose principal purpose is alcoholism and drug abuse prevention and education," he told the commission.That includes drug and alcohol abuse detox, intervention in alcohol and drug abuse, or treatment of persons who are already or may become alcoholics drug abusers. Commissioners asked if the funds be split with other programs like D.A.R.E. and those provided by Community Corrections. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman explained why that could be difficult."We used to receive quite a bit more funding than what we do now - at least $7-8,000 a few years back," she said. "The funds have dwindled because we just don't have that many establishments outside city limits that are selling. It's hard to divvy it up when the pot of money is so small."County office buildings will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 26 for Christmas. For that reason, the next Barton County Commission meeting will be Thursday, Dec. 28 at 9 a.m.

All Star Prevention program receives allocations from Barton Co.

Avian influenza is always around. A particularly deadly strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has impacted birds around the nation this year. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner said the problem began locally about three weeks ago with the arrival of hundreds of thousands of migrating snow geese.

"I was monitoring closely," he said. "Through USDA, we were catching ducks and I was sampling hunter-harvested ducks that were shot at the Bottoms. We sampled 351 ducks in our area. Out of those 351, I think 47 of those ducks tested positive for avian influenza."

Bottoms staff was not seeing a large die-off of birds at that point. A few days later, however, Wagner would see 20-30 birds a day acting sick or already dead. He estimated some 400,000 total geese have stopped at the Bottoms over the past three weeks, and fewer than 1,500 of those birds died. Most samples sent to a lab in Georgia confirmed that HPAI was the culprit.

"The worst part about it is the predominant wind pushes all the carcasses every day toward the main road that everyone is driving," Wagner said. "It makes it look way worse than it actually is."

Wagner believes the peak of infection has passed as many of the birds have left the area. Still, he encourages the public, especially poultry farmers and hunters, to educate themselves about the virus. Changing boots between hunting and farm, disinfecting tires, moving poultry food sources indoors, and cooking waterfowl to 165 degrees can help mitigate the spread of the virus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701787022460.jpeg" alt="Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner estimates 1,200-1,500 waterfowl, out of 400,000 migrating birds that stopped at the Bottoms, likely died of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza." />
 <figcaption>Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner estimates 1,200-1,500 waterfowl, out of 400,000 migrating birds that stopped at the Bottoms, likely died of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAvian influenza is always around. A particularly deadly strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has impacted birds around the nation this year. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner said the problem began locally about three weeks ago with the arrival of hundreds of thousands of migrating snow geese."I was monitoring closely," he said. "Through USDA, we were catching ducks and I was sampling hunter-harvested ducks that were shot at the Bottoms. We sampled 351 ducks in our area. Out of those 351, I think 47 of those ducks tested positive for avian influenza."Bottoms staff was not seeing a large die-off of birds at that point. A few days later, however, Wagner would see 20-30 birds a day acting sick or already dead. He estimated some 400,000 total geese have stopped at the Bottoms over the past three weeks, and fewer than 1,500 of those birds died. Most samples sent to a lab in Georgia confirmed that HPAI was the culprit."The worst part about it is the predominant wind pushes all the carcasses every day toward the main road that everyone is driving," Wagner said. "It makes it look way worse than it actually is."Wagner believes the peak of infection has passed as many of the birds have left the area. Still, he encourages the public, especially poultry farmers and hunters, to educate themselves about the virus. Changing boots between hunting and farm, disinfecting tires, moving poultry food sources indoors, and cooking waterfowl to 165 degrees can help mitigate the spread of the virus.

Wagner: Avian influenza has likely peaked for birds at Cheyenne Bottoms

12/21 BOOKED: Mario Enriquez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Unlawful Transmission of Visual Depiction of a Child, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Morgan White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Eric Torres on Reno County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Elias Vasquez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.

BOOKED: Christopher Delauder on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $338 cash only.

BOOKED: Adam Parsons on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Katie Baker on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Joshua Kelly on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, and on Barton County District Court case for Traffic Contraband Into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Holly Crum on Great Bend Municipal Court case, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Francisca Keith on Barton County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, on $5,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Joshua Mesecher on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, on suspended sentence for probation.

RELEASED: Shawn Cundiff on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Mario Enriquez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Unlawful Transmission of Visual Depiction of a Child, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Adam Parsons on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/21 BOOKED: Mario Enriquez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Unlawful Transmission of Visual Depiction of a Child, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Morgan White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Eric Torres on Reno County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Elias Vasquez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, no bond set.BOOKED: Christopher Delauder on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $338 cash only.BOOKED: Adam Parsons on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Katie Baker on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Joshua Kelly on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, and on Barton County District Court case for Traffic Contraband Into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $2,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Holly Crum on Great Bend Municipal Court case, by order of the court.RELEASED: Francisca Keith on Barton County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, on $5,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Joshua Mesecher on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, on suspended sentence for probation.RELEASED: Shawn Cundiff on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Mario Enriquez on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Unlawful Transmission of Visual Depiction of a Child, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Adam Parsons on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (12/21)

Of all the damage caused by the July 16 storm that ripped through Great Bend, perhaps none was more notable than roof damage to First Southern Baptist Church across from the Great Bend Middle School at 19th at Harrison. Strong winds ripped the roof from the building, and the hail and run that followed caused more damage inside. Pastor Tim Singleton said progress continues to reopen the church.

"Sourcing materials has always been an issue," he said. "We're not the only people affected by a storm. Everybody needs a roof. Everybody needs windows. Everybody needs repairs. We're on a list just like everybody else. We're pleased that progress is being made, and we have really good people doing really good work for us."

Engineers said the structure needed to be reinforced by pulling the roof back and installing new decking. Singleton hopes the work will completed by Easter. With Christmas just days away and no building, church services are moving downtown to the Crest Theater on Christmas Eve. 

"Anybody and everybody is welcome at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve at the Crest," Singleton said. "It will be a candlelight service - lots of Christmas singing and some unique elements."

The July 16 storm packed winds exceeding 80 miles per hour and hail up to softball size. Barton County, USD 428, and the city of Great Bend also continue to work through the damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703173129650.jpeg" alt="Progress continues on construction at First Southern Baptist Church in Great Bend following the July 16 storm that ripped off the structure's roof and caused damage inside. The church will hold Christmas Eve services at the Crest Theater." />
 <figcaption>Progress continues on construction at First Southern Baptist Church in Great Bend following the July 16 storm that ripped off the structure's roof and caused damage inside. The church will hold Christmas Eve services at the Crest Theater.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOf all the damage caused by the July 16 storm that ripped through Great Bend, perhaps none was more notable than roof damage to First Southern Baptist Church across from the Great Bend Middle School at 19th at Harrison. Strong winds ripped the roof from the building, and the hail and run that followed caused more damage inside. Pastor Tim Singleton said progress continues to reopen the church."Sourcing materials has always been an issue," he said. "We're not the only people affected by a storm. Everybody needs a roof. Everybody needs windows. Everybody needs repairs. We're on a list just like everybody else. We're pleased that progress is being made, and we have really good people doing really good work for us."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691691884570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Engineers said the structure needed to be reinforced by pulling the roof back and installing new decking. Singleton hopes the work will completed by Easter. With Christmas just days away and no building, church services are moving downtown to the Crest Theater on Christmas Eve. "Anybody and everybody is welcome at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve at the Crest," Singleton said. "It will be a candlelight service - lots of Christmas singing and some unique elements."The July 16 storm packed winds exceeding 80 miles per hour and hail up to softball size. Barton County, USD 428, and the city of Great Bend also continue to work through the damage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703173320514.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

'Church without a Roof' holding Christmas Eve services at Crest Theater

Today Patchy fog before 7 a.m. Otherwise, partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 60. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 37. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 8 mph in the evening.

Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph.

Saturday Night Rain before 9 p.m., then rain and possibly a thunderstorm between 9 p.m. and 3am, then rain after 3 a.m. Low around 45. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 11 to 16 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Sunday A chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 15 mph becoming north-northwest 19 to 24 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Sunday Night A chance of rain before midnight, then a chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Christmas Day A 30 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Windy.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Blustery.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy.

Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 46.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Patchy fog before 7 a.m. Otherwise, partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 60. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 37. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 8 mph in the evening.Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph.Saturday Night Rain before 9 p.m., then rain and possibly a thunderstorm between 9 p.m. and 3am, then rain after 3 a.m. Low around 45. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 11 to 16 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.Sunday A chance of rain and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 15 mph becoming north-northwest 19 to 24 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Sunday Night A chance of rain before midnight, then a chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Christmas Day A 30 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Windy.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Blustery.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy.Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 46.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Whole wheat chocolate peppermint drop cookies

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701443805880.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Homemade holiday sugar cookiesFOR THE COOKIES:<ul>
 <li>1 cup salted butter, softened</li><li>½ cup confectioners’ sugar</li><li>½ cup granulated sugar</li><li>1 large egg</li><li>½ teaspoon vanilla extract</li><li>2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour</li><li>½ teaspoon cream of tartar</li><li>½ teaspoon baking soda</li>
 </ul>BAKING THE COOKIES<ul>
 <li>Preheat oven to 375°F.</li><li>In large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugars. Add egg and vanilla; continue beating until well mixed.</li><li>Reduce speed to low; add flour, cream of tartar and baking soda. Mix until a soft dough is formed. Cover; chill dough 30 minutes.</li><li>Roll out dough (¼” thick) onto clean surface. To prevent dough from sticking, sprinkle with flour as needed.</li><li>With cookie cutters, cut out cookies. Use floured metal spatula to transfer cookies onto greased or parchment-lined baking sheets. Reroll trimmings and cut.</li><li>Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Let cool a few minutes on baking sheets. Transfer cookies to wire rack. When completely cool, decorate with icing, sugars, and sprinkles.</li>
 </ul>GRANDMA'S DECORATOR ICING<ul>
 <li>Combine with mixer 3 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, ½ cup shortening, 4-5 tablespoons cold water, ½ teaspoon lemon extract, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract and ⅛ teaspoon sea salt.</li>
 </ul>GLOSSY SUGAR ICING<ul>
 <li>Whisk together 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk and ¼ teaspoon vanilla or lemon extract.</li>
 </ul>NUTRITION FACTS<ul>
 <li>Per Serving (1 cookie unfrosted, 23g): 100 calories, 50 calories from fat, 6g fat, 3.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 20mg cholesterol, 75mg sodium, 12g total carbohydrates, 0g dietary fiber, 5g sugars, 1g protein, 17mcg folate, 0mg vitamin C, 0mg calcium, .5mg iron.</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703085557620.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Whole wheat chocolate peppermint drop cookiesFOR THE PEPPERMINT DROP COOKIES:<ul>
 <li>½ cup unsalted butter, melted</li><li>1 cup brown sugar</li><li>¾ teaspoon baking powder</li><li>½ teaspoon salt</li><li>2 large eggs</li><li>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li><li>2/3 cup Dutch-process cocoa</li><li>1 ¾ cups white whole wheat flour</li><li>1 cup dark chocolate chips</li><li>½ cup white chocolate chips</li><li>½ cup crushed peppermint candy</li><li>36 whole peppermint candy melts (Wilton), optional</li>
 </ul>FOR THE PEPPERMINT DROP COOKIES<ul>
 <li>Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line with parchment paper two cookie sheets.</li><li>In medium bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, baking powder and salt. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until smooth.</li><li>Stir in the cocoa and flour; the dough will be sticky. Mix in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candy.</li><li>Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheets, leaving 1 ½-inch between them.</li><li>Bake 8 to 10 minutes, until cookies are set. Remove from oven. If desired, place a whole peppermint candy in center of each cookie. Note: cookies will be very soft coming out of the oven, but will firm up as they cool on the cookie sheet.</li>
 </ul>NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION<ul>
 <li>PER SERVING (1 COOKIE, 34g): 140 calories, 50 calories from fat, 6g total fat, 4g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 20mg cholesterol, 55mg sodium, 23g total carbohydrate, 2g dietary fiber, 10g sugars, 2g protein, 2mcg folate, 0mg vitamin C, 1mg iron.</li>
 </ul>

Enjoy these Christmas treat recipes from Eat Wheat

Golden Belt Community Foundation just completed its 10th 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 U.S. 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, over 1,000 gifts were made to support 106 local charitable organizations and endowment funds, raising a total of $300,000. The foundation received a $70,000 matching grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. With the total dollars raised and the matching dollars, a grand total of $370,000 will be going straight to organizations or growing the organization’s endowment funds.

“This year marked GBCF’s 10th year to be a Giving Tuesday partner,” stated Mackenzie Mitchell, GBCF's development and communications coordinator, “and again this year we invited all charitable organizations in Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford counties to participate.”

Mitchell further explained there were four 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. About half of the organizations will be receiving the gifts as grants to be put to immediate use supporting a wide variety of missions and causes.

The 2023 Top Ten Giving Tuesday organizations and funds raised are: 10- $6,620 Meals on Wheels 9 - $7,290 Family Crisis Center 8 - $7,340 Golden Belt Humane Society 7- $ 9,225 Holy Family 6 - $10,465 Community Food Bank of Barton County 5 - $12,000 United Way 4- $13,150 Sunflower Diversified Services 3 - $14,310 Prairie Godmothers 2- $34,760 Stafford County Economic Development 1 - $40,270 Prince of Peace

“Thank you for making this Giving Tuesday a 10 out of 10,” said Mitchell. “Giving Tuesday couldn’t happen without you.”

Year five for the Most Generous City Award, which was calculated with gift totals by zip code per capita. St. John received the 2023 Most Generous City award, and the foundation will make a grant of $1,000 for a program or project in that community.

In 2024 Giving Tuesday will be celebrated on Dec. 3.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703188457351.jpeg" alt="Golden Belt Community Foundation's Giving Tuesday campaign raised $300,000 for 106 area charitable organizations." />
 <figcaption>Golden Belt Community Foundation's Giving Tuesday campaign raised $300,000 for 106 area charitable organizations.</figcaption>
 </figure>Golden Belt Community Foundation just completed its 10th 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 U.S. 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, over 1,000 gifts were made to support 106 local charitable organizations and endowment funds, raising a total of $300,000. The foundation received a $70,000 matching grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. With the total dollars raised and the matching dollars, a grand total of $370,000 will be going straight to organizations or growing the organization’s endowment funds.“This year marked GBCF’s 10th year to be a Giving Tuesday partner,” stated Mackenzie Mitchell, GBCF's development and communications coordinator, “and again this year we invited all charitable organizations in Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford counties to participate.”Mitchell further explained there were four 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. About half of the organizations will be receiving the gifts as grants to be put to immediate use supporting a wide variety of missions and causes.The 2023 Top Ten Giving Tuesday organizations and funds raised are: 10- $6,620 Meals on Wheels 9 - $7,290 Family Crisis Center 8 - $7,340 Golden Belt Humane Society 7- $ 9,225 Holy Family 6 - $10,465 Community Food Bank of Barton County 5 - $12,000 United Way 4- $13,150 Sunflower Diversified Services 3 - $14,310 Prairie Godmothers 2- $34,760 Stafford County Economic Development 1 - $40,270 Prince of Peace“Thank you for making this Giving Tuesday a 10 out of 10,” said Mitchell. “Giving Tuesday couldn’t happen without you.”Year five for the Most Generous City Award, which was calculated with gift totals by zip code per capita. St. John received the 2023 Most Generous City award, and the foundation will make a grant of $1,000 for a program or project in that community.In 2024 Giving Tuesday will be celebrated on Dec. 3.For questions about Golden Belt Community Foundation or Giving Tuesday, please contact the foundation at gbcf@goldenbeltcf.org or (620) 792-3000.

Golden Belt Community Foundation's Giving Tuesday raises $300,000

A recent community project demonstrated “the beauty of the Central Kansas Partnership (CKP) in many ways,” said Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services director.

The project entailed contributing to the Trail of Lights annual Christmas displays throughout town.

“Youth Crew, along with all other CKP task forces were represented in varying capacities,” Woodmansee said. “And to top it off, the youth worked in tandem with CKP stakeholders, task-force leaders and parents. It was a great turnout.”

In addition to Youth Crew, other task forces included Suicide Prevention, Rise Up, Be Well Barton County, Breastfeeding and Chronic Disease Risk Reduction.

“It is important for youth to see the various ways they can give back to their community,” Woodmansee commented. “They donated their time and talents, while spreading a little holiday cheer. CKP task forces as a whole came together to support one another.

“This illustrates the big picture of CKP,” she continued. “We join in a common effort to build healthy, safe and caring communities, as well as reduce tobacco and substance use, and promote positive attitudes and behaviors.”

Young people involved in CKP have many opportunities to interact with their neighbors to benefit central Kansas and “learn a few valuable life lessons along the way. These connections are vital to our youth.

“CKP displays a vibrant culture of programs and grassroots efforts that promote health, wellness and rural-community prosperity,” Woodmansee added.

She encouraged local and area individuals, businesses and groups to learn more by visiting www.ckpartnership.org.

“We will try to answer your questions, and if we don’t have immediate answers, we will point you in the right direction.”

The partnership formed in 1991, with the development of Barton County Leadership, Education, Action Against Drugs (LEAD). In 2010, the Healthy Communities Coalition joined the Barton County Partnership to develop CKP. Its task forces advocate for central Kansans to foster the common good.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703169299256.jpeg" alt="Central Kansas Partnership task forces participate in Trail of Lights project." />
 <figcaption>Central Kansas Partnership task forces participate in Trail of Lights project.</figcaption>
 </figure>A recent community project demonstrated “the beauty of the Central Kansas Partnership (CKP) in many ways,” said Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services director.The project entailed contributing to the Trail of Lights annual Christmas displays throughout town.“Youth Crew, along with all other CKP task forces were represented in varying capacities,” Woodmansee said. “And to top it off, the youth worked in tandem with CKP stakeholders, task-force leaders and parents. It was a great turnout.”In addition to Youth Crew, other task forces included Suicide Prevention, Rise Up, Be Well Barton County, Breastfeeding and Chronic Disease Risk Reduction.“It is important for youth to see the various ways they can give back to their community,” Woodmansee commented. “They donated their time and talents, while spreading a little holiday cheer. CKP task forces as a whole came together to support one another.“This illustrates the big picture of CKP,” she continued. “We join in a common effort to build healthy, safe and caring communities, as well as reduce tobacco and substance use, and promote positive attitudes and behaviors.”Young people involved in CKP have many opportunities to interact with their neighbors to benefit central Kansas and “learn a few valuable life lessons along the way. These connections are vital to our youth.“CKP displays a vibrant culture of programs and grassroots efforts that promote health, wellness and rural-community prosperity,” Woodmansee added.She encouraged local and area individuals, businesses and groups to learn more by visiting www.ckpartnership.org.“We will try to answer your questions, and if we don’t have immediate answers, we will point you in the right direction.”The partnership formed in 1991, with the development of Barton County Leadership, Education, Action Against Drugs (LEAD). In 2010, the Healthy Communities Coalition joined the Barton County Partnership to develop CKP. Its task forces advocate for central Kansans to foster the common good.

Central KS Partnership task forces join together for Trail of Lights project

Wheat farmers, grain trade representatives and state and national wheat organization staff members got to walk a figurative mile in the shoes of their end-use customers this month during a flour milling short course at the IGP Institute at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

The IGP Institute organizes this course annually as a deep dive into milling and baking processes. This year’s course, conducted December 11-13, 2023, was designed to give wheat growers and industry personnel training in the basic principles of flour milling and a greater understanding of the relationship between wheat quality and flour performance. Eighteen participants representing seven states participated in this year’s course. They got a firsthand look at the ins and outs of what it takes to take wheat from the kernel to the loaf or other wheat food product.&nbsp;

Chris Tanner, vice president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and a farmer from Norton, Eric Sperber, CEO of Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who serves as an industry representative on the KAWG board, and Kansas Wheat Vice President of Communications Marsha Boswell participated in the short course. Farmers from Idaho, Oregon, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Montana, representatives from national wheat organizations, as well as wheat breeders from South Dakota also attended the course, providing each other with a unique viewpoint of the quality needs throughout the wheat and flour supply chain.

“From a grower’s perspective, wheat is wheat. I took it for granted,” Tanner said. “I thought you just ground it into flour and made bread. That was definitely oversimplified. Most people have a mindset that you run it through the mill once, but I didn’t know it went through so many breaks.”

In addition to classroom lectures, the course included hands-on practical training in K-State’s milling and baking laboratories. The group members learned about the milling differences in the six classes of wheat, principles of wheat cleaning and conditioning, an explanation of major milling equipment and the process of wheat and flour blending, as well as the impact of grade, wheat quality characteristics and mill performance on flour extraction. At the milling laboratory in Shellenberger Hall on the K-State campus, the participants divided into groups to mill all six classes of U.S. wheat.&nbsp;

“There’s an intricate process to get every last piece of flour extracted to get a decent margin,” Tanner said. “The flour miller’s margin is thin, like the farmer’s. The things we do on the farm impact the mill’s bottom line.&nbsp;

“There are people every step along the way that care about getting the best product to the consumer. Everyone along the industry chain is trying to bring the highest quality product to market,” he said.

At the Hal Ross Flour Mill, attendees walked through the machinations and process of an actual flour mill and learned about the various products a mill can produce.&nbsp;They milled both hard red winter and soft white wheat in the mill.

“Having been in the wheat trading business for 30 years, I found the course to be enlightening,” Sperber said. “The milling side of the course really resonated with me. It was helpful to see the dynamics of the milling process. Milling wheat into flour is much more complex than just grinding the seed. My anticipation was that you ran the wheat through the mill once and you had bran, germ and flour. I had no concept of the streams it went through to maximize the endosperm.”

In the baking lab, attendees also learned about the different flour and dough testing methods that end-use customers use to evaluate the quality and functionality of each load of wheat. They also participated in baking tests to see the variation in products like bread, cakes and cookies when using different classes of wheat.&nbsp;

“The classroom instruction on the baking and flour qualities was interesting,” said Sperber. “I didn’t know about the care of trying to not damage the starch from the baking side of it.”

Tanner agreed, saying, “When you buy a bag of flour, you think it’s flour. I learned about the different flours made from the classes of wheat. In the baking lab, I didn’t get the flour I needed to make a loaf of bread, so instead I made a brick.”

Ultimately, the short course pulls back the curtain on the technical aspects of how differences in wheat class and qualities impact the final product on a consumer’s plate. The farmers and staff who attended the course left with valuable knowledge of how to better meet the needs of their customers.&nbsp;

Learn more about the technical, research-based training offered by K-State through the IGP Institute at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kAHRaBZvRAcAWhSwKA447VYoZAHdzIKpWtQnIDEw6_z6moOhh7cS4pm_wfC4R1C3InkKMXZGz842n7yZnAhePgqPU9zUfCOZQbzinNPZn8M41kPCVIsMfH2_u_IxhRWN9g6522bZzd674vUzeoWDin9idkIsIuGU&amp;c=H5e5Rc37JGwGnrt5SMv1Nt7LrttswzlFtn3fTm6UOYhuer7bEqMLXg==&amp;ch=oauMM6V5NbyEsNDxFPk8Fw_wQ-lVIJMyFMw-8GPI9WBNVJr5h49jCg==" target="_blank">grains.k-state.edu/igp/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168727121.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wheat farmers, grain trade representatives and state and national wheat organization staff members got to walk a figurative mile in the shoes of their end-use customers this month during a flour milling short course at the IGP Institute at Kansas State University.&nbsp;The IGP Institute organizes this course annually as a deep dive into milling and baking processes. This year’s course, conducted December 11-13, 2023, was designed to give wheat growers and industry personnel training in the basic principles of flour milling and a greater understanding of the relationship between wheat quality and flour performance. Eighteen participants representing seven states participated in this year’s course. They got a firsthand look at the ins and outs of what it takes to take wheat from the kernel to the loaf or other wheat food product.&nbsp;Chris Tanner, vice president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and a farmer from Norton, Eric Sperber, CEO of Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who serves as an industry representative on the KAWG board, and Kansas Wheat Vice President of Communications Marsha Boswell participated in the short course. Farmers from Idaho, Oregon, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Montana, representatives from national wheat organizations, as well as wheat breeders from South Dakota also attended the course, providing each other with a unique viewpoint of the quality needs throughout the wheat and flour supply chain.“From a grower’s perspective, wheat is wheat. I took it for granted,” Tanner said. “I thought you just ground it into flour and made bread. That was definitely oversimplified. Most people have a mindset that you run it through the mill once, but I didn’t know it went through so many breaks.”In addition to classroom lectures, the course included hands-on practical training in K-State’s milling and baking laboratories. The group members learned about the milling differences in the six classes of wheat, principles of wheat cleaning and conditioning, an explanation of major milling equipment and the process of wheat and flour blending, as well as the impact of grade, wheat quality characteristics and mill performance on flour extraction. At the milling laboratory in Shellenberger Hall on the K-State campus, the participants divided into groups to mill all six classes of U.S. wheat.&nbsp;“There’s an intricate process to get every last piece of flour extracted to get a decent margin,” Tanner said. “The flour miller’s margin is thin, like the farmer’s. The things we do on the farm impact the mill’s bottom line.&nbsp;“There are people every step along the way that care about getting the best product to the consumer. Everyone along the industry chain is trying to bring the highest quality product to market,” he said.At the Hal Ross Flour Mill, attendees walked through the machinations and process of an actual flour mill and learned about the various products a mill can produce.&nbsp;They milled both hard red winter and soft white wheat in the mill.“Having been in the wheat trading business for 30 years, I found the course to be enlightening,” Sperber said. “The milling side of the course really resonated with me. It was helpful to see the dynamics of the milling process. Milling wheat into flour is much more complex than just grinding the seed. My anticipation was that you ran the wheat through the mill once and you had bran, germ and flour. I had no concept of the streams it went through to maximize the endosperm.”In the baking lab, attendees also learned about the different flour and dough testing methods that end-use customers use to evaluate the quality and functionality of each load of wheat. They also participated in baking tests to see the variation in products like bread, cakes and cookies when using different classes of wheat.&nbsp;“The classroom instruction on the baking and flour qualities was interesting,” said Sperber. “I didn’t know about the care of trying to not damage the starch from the baking side of it.”Tanner agreed, saying, “When you buy a bag of flour, you think it’s flour. I learned about the different flours made from the classes of wheat. In the baking lab, I didn’t get the flour I needed to make a loaf of bread, so instead I made a brick.”Ultimately, the short course pulls back the curtain on the technical aspects of how differences in wheat class and qualities impact the final product on a consumer’s plate. The farmers and staff who attended the course left with valuable knowledge of how to better meet the needs of their customers.&nbsp;Learn more about the technical, research-based training offered by K-State through the IGP Institute at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kAHRaBZvRAcAWhSwKA447VYoZAHdzIKpWtQnIDEw6_z6moOhh7cS4pm_wfC4R1C3InkKMXZGz842n7yZnAhePgqPU9zUfCOZQbzinNPZn8M41kPCVIsMfH2_u_IxhRWN9g6522bZzd674vUzeoWDin9idkIsIuGU&amp;c=H5e5Rc37JGwGnrt5SMv1Nt7LrttswzlFtn3fTm6UOYhuer7bEqMLXg==&amp;ch=oauMM6V5NbyEsNDxFPk8Fw_wQ-lVIJMyFMw-8GPI9WBNVJr5h49jCg==" target="_blank">grains.k-state.edu/igp/</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Leaders take deep dive into baking during K-State course

Find out more about the grant program through the linked story below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/59a86eb4-ded3-4e46-a8aa-cdd3e282c0e7">Barton County renews Facade Improvement Grant program&nbsp;</a>

Find out more about the grant program through the linked story below.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/59a86eb4-ded3-4e46-a8aa-cdd3e282c0e7">Barton County renews Facade Improvement Grant program&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702926831914.jpeg" alt="Another Round II Façade Improvement Grant Project has been completed. With $20,000.00 awarded earlier this year, the Miller’s of Claflin building at 220 Main, Claflin, has been improved. Barton County Commission Chairman Shawn Hutchinson said it was incredible to partner on this particular project as Miller’s provided an almost 50% match. With the new façade, the Millers building stayed in character with the rest of their storefronts and honors the passing of co-owner Bill Miller. As fourth-generation owners, he and brother Brad Miller, along with the current generation of Millers, make sure that storefronts represent businesses from Claflin’s past." />
 <figcaption>Another Round II Façade Improvement Grant Project has been completed. With $20,000.00 awarded earlier this year, the Miller’s of Claflin building at 220 Main, Claflin, has been improved. Barton County Commission Chairman Shawn Hutchinson said it was incredible to partner on this particular project as Miller’s provided an almost 50% match. With the new façade, the Millers building stayed in character with the rest of their storefronts and honors the passing of co-owner Bill Miller. As fourth-generation owners, he and brother Brad Miller, along with the current generation of Millers, make sure that storefronts represent businesses from Claflin’s past.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Before & After: Claflin downtown facade improvement

Wheatland Electric is once again proud to play a major role in fulfilling Christmas wishes for children in need through Saint Francis Ministries’ Christmas for Kids.

In addition to delivering a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to the non-for-profit organization that exists to provide healing and hope to children and families, 43 Wheatland employees and trustees sponsored 89 children for the holidays this year. In addition, a $1,000 private donation was made by a Wheatland trustee to fulfill additional wish lists for children in need.

This is the seventh year in a row (since 2017)&nbsp; Wheatland's cooperative leadership and employees have opened their hearts to fulfill the holiday wish lists of children in need across Wheatland's southwest and central Kansas service territory, including the following counties: Finney, Wichita, Greeley, Scott, Hamilton, Kearny, and Barton.

The grant funds and donation will be directed to assist the faith-based organization with its Christmas mission. Along with family preservation services, foster care, and adoption assistance, the regional organization also offers several residential programs that serve those with mental health and behavioral issues, adults with intellectual and development disabilities, and even survivors of human trafficking.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703101471788.png" alt="Wheatland Electric employees and trustees sponsored 89 children through Saint Francis Ministries’ Christmas for Kids program this year. Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communications (far right) poses with staff of Saint Francis in their Garden City office in front of this year’s presents. Wheatland Electric also awarded a $1,000 Sharing Success grant in addition to a $1,000 private donation from a trustee to the faith-based non-profit organization to fulfill additional holiday wish lists of children in need in the region." />
 <figcaption>Wheatland Electric employees and trustees sponsored 89 children through Saint Francis Ministries’ Christmas for Kids program this year. Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communications (far right) poses with staff of Saint Francis in their Garden City office in front of this year’s presents. Wheatland Electric also awarded a $1,000 Sharing Success grant in addition to a $1,000 private donation from a trustee to the faith-based non-profit organization to fulfill additional holiday wish lists of children in need in the region.</figcaption>
 </figure>Wheatland Electric is once again proud to play a major role in fulfilling Christmas wishes for children in need through Saint Francis Ministries’ Christmas for Kids.In addition to delivering a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to the non-for-profit organization that exists to provide healing and hope to children and families, 43 Wheatland employees and trustees sponsored 89 children for the holidays this year. In addition, a $1,000 private donation was made by a Wheatland trustee to fulfill additional wish lists for children in need.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703101607051.png" alt="(From right) Mark Kircher, staking technician at Wheatland Electric, and Lisa Jacobs, Mindy Evans, and Lesley Percival, representatives of Saint Francis Ministries in Great Bend, pose with gifts from Wheatland employees and trustees for children in need in Barton County." />
 <figcaption>(From right) Mark Kircher, staking technician at Wheatland Electric, and Lisa Jacobs, Mindy Evans, and Lesley Percival, representatives of Saint Francis Ministries in Great Bend, pose with gifts from Wheatland employees and trustees for children in need in Barton County.</figcaption>
 </figure>This is the seventh year in a row (since 2017)&nbsp; Wheatland's cooperative leadership and employees have opened their hearts to fulfill the holiday wish lists of children in need across Wheatland's southwest and central Kansas service territory, including the following counties: Finney, Wichita, Greeley, Scott, Hamilton, Kearny, and Barton.The grant funds and donation will be directed to assist the faith-based organization with its Christmas mission. Along with family preservation services, foster care, and adoption assistance, the regional organization also offers several residential programs that serve those with mental health and behavioral issues, adults with intellectual and development disabilities, and even survivors of human trafficking.

Wheatland Electric employees continue to give big over Christmas season

For nearly three decades, the North Carolina-based "John Boy &amp; Billy Big Show" has dominated the morning airwaves at 104 3 the Point. Changes are coming for 2024. Station Program Director Becca Tudor said "The Free Beer &amp; Hot Wings Morning Show" begins Jan. 8 at 4 a.m.

"John Boy and Billy have been around for a long time, but we're super excited to give these new guys a brand new opportunity," she said. "You hear 'Free Beer and Hotwings,' and it's like sign me up. Tune in weekday mornings to hear what they are all about because something new is coming, and we're excited for it."

The new show features Gregg "Free Beer" Daniels, Chris "Hog Wings" Michels, with Steve and Kelly. The show began in Omaha, Neb. in 1997. Instead of calling it "The Gregg and Chris Show," the hosts admit the free beer and hot wings bit is little more than a publicity stunt. The show, which will feature the same classic rock 104 3 the Point listeners have grown accustomed to, can now be heard in 26 states. The addition of 104 3 the Point marks the show's first venture into Kansas.

The show features a Dumber than the Show trivia segment daily at 7:40. Callers compete against Michels and have 90 seconds to answer questions with prize money on the line. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703100686134.png" alt="Omaha-based "The Free Beer &amp; Hot Wings Morning Show" will replace "The John Boy &amp; Billy Big Show" on 104 3 the Point in January." />
 <figcaption>Omaha-based "The Free Beer &amp; Hot Wings Morning Show" will replace "The John Boy &amp; Billy Big Show" on 104 3 the Point in January.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFor nearly three decades, the North Carolina-based "John Boy &amp; Billy Big Show" has dominated the morning airwaves at 104 3 the Point. Changes are coming for 2024. Station Program Director Becca Tudor said "The Free Beer &amp; Hot Wings Morning Show" begins Jan. 8 at 4 a.m."John Boy and Billy have been around for a long time, but we're super excited to give these new guys a brand new opportunity," she said. "You hear 'Free Beer and Hotwings,' and it's like sign me up. Tune in weekday mornings to hear what they are all about because something new is coming, and we're excited for it."The new show features Gregg "Free Beer" Daniels, Chris "Hog Wings" Michels, with Steve and Kelly. The show began in Omaha, Neb. in 1997. Instead of calling it "The Gregg and Chris Show," the hosts admit the free beer and hot wings bit is little more than a publicity stunt. The show, which will feature the same classic rock 104 3 the Point listeners have grown accustomed to, can now be heard in 26 states. The addition of 104 3 the Point marks the show's first venture into Kansas.The show features a Dumber than the Show trivia segment daily at 7:40. Callers compete against Michels and have 90 seconds to answer questions with prize money on the line. Aaron Clark will host the 104 3 the Point morning show from Jan. 1-6, 2024, offering previews of the new programming. "The Free Beer &amp; Hot Wings Morning Show" officially hits the local airwaves the following Monday at 4 a.m., and will run through 9 a.m. Monday through Saturday.