By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The big news coming out of Thursday's Barton County Planning Commission meeting at the Hoisington Activity Center was the location of Acciona Energy's proposed solar farm in the county. Adam Stratton, Acciona's director of solar development, also laid out the size of the project, which would consist of two locations generating 150 megawatts (MW) of energy.

"The total number of megawatts installed in all of Kansas right now, solar energy, is about 120-130 megawatts," he said. "That includes residential, small commercial, and something that would be considered maybe more solar farm or larger scale. That's 125 megawatts. One of our solar farms of the four or five we have in development here, each of those is 150 megawatts. When our first one starts construction in the coming year, that will be doubling the capacity in Kansas instantly."

One megawatt is enough to light approximately 1,000 homes. Stratton said Acciona would not need to install additional transmission lines in the area to get the energy onto the power grid, and that any infrastructure would be placed underground. Part of the project in Barton County would include two acres of battery storage in structures identical to 40-foot shipping containers.

Planning commissioners asked a variety of questions about the safety of panels, including the risk of contaminating the ground beneath the cells. Stratton said the panels contain polycrystalline cells that are connected by copper wire. There is no liquid, and the glass is tested for durability at all angles against a range of hail conditions. He likened the panels to a car windshield.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7ed1e3fe-47c3-403d-8142-b68f567d232f">READ MORE: Acciona reveals potential location of solar farm</a>

"When the hail hits your windshield it doesn't come through your windshield and hit you in the face," he said. "It cracks. It's made to do that and made to take impact. That's what saves our lives. It also saves the solar panel and solar cells from not completely smashing. Everything stays in the frame of the panel."

Another concern involved what would go under the panels. The reps explained that some smaller farms may have used gravel to save money or because the panels are so close together. That would not be the case with Acciona's panels. Native grass or cover would likely be planted.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/85a8f279-39a8-45de-ac38-8817a171468e">READ MORE: Acciona reps answer questions about wildlife impacts</a>

"If it's a tilled field, then you're not going to plant anything," Stratton said. "One, you want to control what's going to come in there because all of a sudden you're not working the land anymore. That's probably not a good idea. Two, from a runoff perspective, you've got to control the water."

Stratton said the typical agreement with landowners is a 30-year contract with two additional five-year options. In the event of bankruptcy or other unanticipated company loss, property owners are protected by a decommissioning clause held by a third party.

Economically, Stratton said land value can increase 5-10 times once the solar panels are installed, though the company would also seek tax exemption for 10 years as an energy provider. Stratton said he expects construction of the farms to take 18-32 months with 700-800 jobs at the project's peak. More than 30 full-time, well-paying jobs would remain after construction.

The Barton County Planning Commission is currently revising rules regarding commercial solar farming. The Barton County Board of Commissioners will vote on whether or not to continue a moratorium on commercial solar farm development in the county at Tuesday's meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683734847110.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe big news coming out of Thursday's Barton County Planning Commission meeting at the Hoisington Activity Center was the location of Acciona Energy's proposed solar farm in the county. Adam Stratton, Acciona's director of solar development, also laid out the size of the project, which would consist of two locations generating 150 megawatts (MW) of energy."The total number of megawatts installed in all of Kansas right now, solar energy, is about 120-130 megawatts," he said. "That includes residential, small commercial, and something that would be considered maybe more solar farm or larger scale. That's 125 megawatts. One of our solar farms of the four or five we have in development here, each of those is 150 megawatts. When our first one starts construction in the coming year, that will be doubling the capacity in Kansas instantly."One megawatt is enough to light approximately 1,000 homes. Stratton said Acciona would not need to install additional transmission lines in the area to get the energy onto the power grid, and that any infrastructure would be placed underground. Part of the project in Barton County would include two acres of battery storage in structures identical to 40-foot shipping containers.Planning commissioners asked a variety of questions about the safety of panels, including the risk of contaminating the ground beneath the cells. Stratton said the panels contain polycrystalline cells that are connected by copper wire. There is no liquid, and the glass is tested for durability at all angles against a range of hail conditions. He likened the panels to a car windshield.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7ed1e3fe-47c3-403d-8142-b68f567d232f">READ MORE: Acciona reveals potential location of solar farm</a>"When the hail hits your windshield it doesn't come through your windshield and hit you in the face," he said. "It cracks. It's made to do that and made to take impact. That's what saves our lives. It also saves the solar panel and solar cells from not completely smashing. Everything stays in the frame of the panel."Another concern involved what would go under the panels. The reps explained that some smaller farms may have used gravel to save money or because the panels are so close together. That would not be the case with Acciona's panels. Native grass or cover would likely be planted.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/85a8f279-39a8-45de-ac38-8817a171468e">READ MORE: Acciona reps answer questions about wildlife impacts</a>"If it's a tilled field, then you're not going to plant anything," Stratton said. "One, you want to control what's going to come in there because all of a sudden you're not working the land anymore. That's probably not a good idea. Two, from a runoff perspective, you've got to control the water."Stratton said the typical agreement with landowners is a 30-year contract with two additional five-year options. In the event of bankruptcy or other unanticipated company loss, property owners are protected by a decommissioning clause held by a third party.Economically, Stratton said land value can increase 5-10 times once the solar panels are installed, though the company would also seek tax exemption for 10 years as an energy provider. Stratton said he expects construction of the farms to take 18-32 months with 700-800 jobs at the project's peak. More than 30 full-time, well-paying jobs would remain after construction.The Barton County Planning Commission is currently revising rules regarding commercial solar farming. The Barton County Board of Commissioners will vote on whether or not to continue a moratorium on commercial solar farm development in the county at Tuesday's meeting.

Acciona details scale of proposed solar farm in Barton County

Today Sunny, with a high near 56. West wind 6 to 9 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 27. Southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming north after midnight.

Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 47. East wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night Cloudy, with a low around 32. East wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 44. East-southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Thursday A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48.

Thursday Night A 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 50.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 28.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 53.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 56.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 56. West wind 6 to 9 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 27. Southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming north after midnight.Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 47. East wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Night Cloudy, with a low around 32. East wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 44. East-southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.Wednesday Night A 30-percent chance of rain, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.Thursday A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48.Thursday Night A 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 50.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 28.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 53.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 56.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

The search committee tasked with selecting the sixth president of Barton Community College met this week to review applicants. The committee ultimately selected four semi-finalists to continue through the selection process.

Barton Board of Trustees Chairman and chair of the search committee Mike Johnson said the committee was pleased with the number of applications received.

“The committee is excited with the quality of our semi-finalists,” Johnson said. “We look forward to the next step in the process of choosing Barton’s sixth president.”

The next phase will include individual virtual meetings with each of the semi-finalists to be conducted the week of Dec. 11. Finalists will then be announced on Dec. 18. After the new year, finalists will visit campus for in-person meetings with the search committee, faculty, and staff along with tours of Barton County. Public meetings will also be scheduled for residents of Barton County who wish to meet the finalists.

Following the campus visits, the search committee will make its final recommendation to the Board of Trustees. According to the updated timeline, the Board will announce Barton’s incoming president at a special meeting tentatively scheduled for Jan. 30.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://bartonccc.edu/presidentsearch">bartonccc.edu/presidentsearch</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701690375322.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie HarrisThe search committee tasked with selecting the sixth president of Barton Community College met this week to review applicants. The committee ultimately selected four semi-finalists to continue through the selection process.Barton Board of Trustees Chairman and chair of the search committee Mike Johnson said the committee was pleased with the number of applications received.“The committee is excited with the quality of our semi-finalists,” Johnson said. “We look forward to the next step in the process of choosing Barton’s sixth president.”The next phase will include individual virtual meetings with each of the semi-finalists to be conducted the week of Dec. 11. Finalists will then be announced on Dec. 18. After the new year, finalists will visit campus for in-person meetings with the search committee, faculty, and staff along with tours of Barton County. Public meetings will also be scheduled for residents of Barton County who wish to meet the finalists.Following the campus visits, the search committee will make its final recommendation to the Board of Trustees. According to the updated timeline, the Board will announce Barton’s incoming president at a special meeting tentatively scheduled for Jan. 30.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://bartonccc.edu/presidentsearch">bartonccc.edu/presidentsearch</a>.

Search for the next Barton president continues

Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Megan Barfield that aired Dec. 7, 2023.

The Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Listen to this month's Chamber Connect show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Megan Barfield that aired Dec. 7, 2023.<div><iframe title="Chamber Connect: Great Bend Chamber CEO Megan Barfield" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=h3zqf-151c6e0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Chamber Connect show airs the first Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Chamber Connect with CEO Megan Barfield

As
of Tuesday, December 4 the drought monitor indicates most of our area in severe
drought.&nbsp; Overall, conditions are a
little bit better for much of the state.&nbsp;
None of the state is in exception drought.&nbsp; It doesn’t sound like much but conditions are
slowly improving.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (December 12 to 16) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and a normal to slightly below normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (December 14
to 20) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of leaning above normal for temperatures and
normal to slightly below normal for precipitation. 

The 2024 wheat crop is in the ground
and almost all fall crops are in the bin.&nbsp;
The question on most producers’ minds is the weather out look for
2024.&nbsp; After a Super La Nina we have
transitioned to an El Nino.&nbsp; Some are
thinking this will be a Super El Nino.&nbsp;
So, what does that mean?&nbsp;
Typically, but not always, an El Nino pattern means wetter winter
conditions.&nbsp; However, not always&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; and it depends on several factors.&nbsp; With some predicting a super El Nino, the
natural assumption is much more precipitation than normal along with colder
temperatures.&nbsp; 

Not everybody is on board with this
prediction.&nbsp; NOAA has this now classified
as a “strong” El Nino and conditions should persist through the spring
season.&nbsp; They predict a 35% chance of a
“super” El Nino.&nbsp; The last being in 2015-2016.&nbsp; They caution other factors come into
play.&nbsp; Some almanacs and other sources
are calling for Kansas to be wetter and snowier.&nbsp; As of now NOAA isn’t.&nbsp; On average this condition has resulted in two
to six or more inches of snow than average.&nbsp;
Not exactly overwhelming.&nbsp; For a
stronger El Nino maybe up to eight more inches in part of the state.&nbsp; However, some strong El Nino events resulted
in below average snowfall.&nbsp; Kansas as in
so many things is in between.

What does the long-term outlook
say?&nbsp; For January through March,
predictions lean to slightly below normal for temperatures and a 33 to 55%
chance for above normal precipitation.&nbsp;&nbsp;
For the first two months of the years, our long-term average is about an
inch of liquid precipitation per month and closer to two in March. For February
through April, equal chances on the temperatures but about a 40 to 50% chance
of above normal for precipitation, normally around eight inches or so on
average.&nbsp; For April through May overall,
we have equal chances of above or below normal temperature and
precipitation.&nbsp; Unfortunately, the summer
period is leaning to above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall.

These are only best “guesses” based
on the data the models have and could certainly change depending on how the El
Nino acts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598717628840.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College Agriculture Instructor Dr. Vic Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>As
of Tuesday, December 4 the drought monitor indicates most of our area in severe
drought.&nbsp; Overall, conditions are a
little bit better for much of the state.&nbsp;
None of the state is in exception drought.&nbsp; It doesn’t sound like much but conditions are
slowly improving.&nbsp; The six to ten-day
outlook (December 12 to 16) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of leaning above normal
for temperatures and a normal to slightly below normal precipitation.&nbsp; The eight to fourteen-day outlook (December 14
to 20) indicates a 40 to 60% chance of leaning above normal for temperatures and
normal to slightly below normal for precipitation. The 2024 wheat crop is in the ground
and almost all fall crops are in the bin.&nbsp;
The question on most producers’ minds is the weather out look for
2024.&nbsp; After a Super La Nina we have
transitioned to an El Nino.&nbsp; Some are
thinking this will be a Super El Nino.&nbsp;
So, what does that mean?&nbsp;
Typically, but not always, an El Nino pattern means wetter winter
conditions.&nbsp; However, not always&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; and it depends on several factors.&nbsp; With some predicting a super El Nino, the
natural assumption is much more precipitation than normal along with colder
temperatures.&nbsp; Not everybody is on board with this
prediction.&nbsp; NOAA has this now classified
as a “strong” El Nino and conditions should persist through the spring
season.&nbsp; They predict a 35% chance of a
“super” El Nino.&nbsp; The last being in 2015-2016.&nbsp; They caution other factors come into
play.&nbsp; Some almanacs and other sources
are calling for Kansas to be wetter and snowier.&nbsp; As of now NOAA isn’t.&nbsp; On average this condition has resulted in two
to six or more inches of snow than average.&nbsp;
Not exactly overwhelming.&nbsp; For a
stronger El Nino maybe up to eight more inches in part of the state.&nbsp; However, some strong El Nino events resulted
in below average snowfall.&nbsp; Kansas as in
so many things is in between.What does the long-term outlook
say?&nbsp; For January through March,
predictions lean to slightly below normal for temperatures and a 33 to 55%
chance for above normal precipitation.&nbsp;&nbsp;
For the first two months of the years, our long-term average is about an
inch of liquid precipitation per month and closer to two in March. For February
through April, equal chances on the temperatures but about a 40 to 50% chance
of above normal for precipitation, normally around eight inches or so on
average.&nbsp; For April through May overall,
we have equal chances of above or below normal temperature and
precipitation.&nbsp; Unfortunately, the summer
period is leaning to above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall.These are only best “guesses” based
on the data the models have and could certainly change depending on how the El
Nino acts.

Barton Ag Instructor Dr. Vic Martin - Kansas and the Super El Nino

With a 19-month-old daughter at home, Registered Nurse (RN) classwork to do, and nursing shifts at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Great Bend to juggle, Barton Nursing student and licensed practical nurse Darien Sanchez is more than busy, but he knows it’s all worth it as he is well on his way to a lifelong career doing what he loves; helping people, especially local residents.

“I want to become a nurse to be able to help people during their most vulnerable times and help them feel comfortable and cared for,” he said. “My favorite part of the Barton Nursing program is being close to home and being able to provide care for communities around me.”

Sanchez said the Barton program prepared him for real-world applications by constantly supplementing what they learned in the classroom with highly detailed scenarios in Barton’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs, and opportunities to get experience in local clinical settings.

“Barton helped me get hands-on experience by utilizing lab simulations to interact with mannequins and prepare for real-world situations,” he said. “We also get to work with real patients by assisting nurses as they care for their patients as part of the clinical part of the program.”

While Sanchez said the lab simulations are extremely beneficial, he said the clinical work is vital to being ready to start working as a real nurse.

“The clinical sites have been great at showing me how different nurses use their expertise and how different facilities function,” he said. “I can see the different patients and their backgrounds. I have also learned how to use different equipment, which helps me be prepared in case I am in a new environment.”

While the theoretical and technical aspects of nursing are obviously the most essential elements of the program to ensure Sanchez is a competent, capable, and confident nurse, he said the social aspect of the program has been another fantastic benefit he hadn’t expected.

"I have been able to meet a lot of good friends since starting the program last year,” he said. “I have been able to grow alongside my classmates, and I have built friendships along the way. My classmates also provide me with different perspectives, thus allowing me to further my knowledge.”&nbsp;

Sanchez plans to pursue a bachelor’s in nursing degree at Fort Hays State University and wants to work in a pediatric unit and eventually continue his education in pursuit of becoming a nurse practitioner.

Applications for the 2024-2025 school year are now open. Priority deadline to apply for the Nursing program is January 31. Applications can still be received until March 1. For more information or to apply, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nursing.bartonccc.edu/">nursing.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701960446128.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaWith a 19-month-old daughter at home, Registered Nurse (RN) classwork to do, and nursing shifts at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Great Bend to juggle, Barton Nursing student and licensed practical nurse Darien Sanchez is more than busy, but he knows it’s all worth it as he is well on his way to a lifelong career doing what he loves; helping people, especially local residents.“I want to become a nurse to be able to help people during their most vulnerable times and help them feel comfortable and cared for,” he said. “My favorite part of the Barton Nursing program is being close to home and being able to provide care for communities around me.”Sanchez said the Barton program prepared him for real-world applications by constantly supplementing what they learned in the classroom with highly detailed scenarios in Barton’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs, and opportunities to get experience in local clinical settings.“Barton helped me get hands-on experience by utilizing lab simulations to interact with mannequins and prepare for real-world situations,” he said. “We also get to work with real patients by assisting nurses as they care for their patients as part of the clinical part of the program.”While Sanchez said the lab simulations are extremely beneficial, he said the clinical work is vital to being ready to start working as a real nurse.“The clinical sites have been great at showing me how different nurses use their expertise and how different facilities function,” he said. “I can see the different patients and their backgrounds. I have also learned how to use different equipment, which helps me be prepared in case I am in a new environment.”While the theoretical and technical aspects of nursing are obviously the most essential elements of the program to ensure Sanchez is a competent, capable, and confident nurse, he said the social aspect of the program has been another fantastic benefit he hadn’t expected."I have been able to meet a lot of good friends since starting the program last year,” he said. “I have been able to grow alongside my classmates, and I have built friendships along the way. My classmates also provide me with different perspectives, thus allowing me to further my knowledge.”&nbsp;Sanchez plans to pursue a bachelor’s in nursing degree at Fort Hays State University and wants to work in a pediatric unit and eventually continue his education in pursuit of becoming a nurse practitioner.Applications for the 2024-2025 school year are now open. Priority deadline to apply for the Nursing program is January 31. Applications can still be received until March 1. For more information or to apply, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nursing.bartonccc.edu/">nursing.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Great Bend native on path to become nurse practitioner

Stueders Contractors, a family owned and operated HVAC, electrical and plumbing service provider in Great Bend, is ushering in the holiday season with an exciting initiative: the Stueders Festive Crew Challenge: Gift of Giving Edition. This competition encourages community involvement and charitable giving. Your vote is needed.

For one week only, from Monday, Dec. 11 to Monday, Dec. 18, Stueders will showcase the creativity and holiday spirit of their team members through the Holiday Crew Challenge. Each crew member will be competing for the coveted title of the "Most Festive," with the chance to win a $50 bonus and the honor of selecting a charity to receive a $250 donation in their name.

How It Works: The Stueders crew will don their most spirited holiday attire, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm for the season to the company Christmas Party on Saturday, December 9 where they will have their photo taken and select the charity they are competing for. Starting Monday, Dec. 11, photos will be shared on Stueder’s Facebook and Instagram pages so that the challenge may begin.

Community Votes: The public is invited to cast their votes on social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram) or in person at Stueders' showroom located at 3410 10th Street in Great Bend, where each like and heart counts towards determining the winner.

Gift of Giving: The winning crew member not only receives a $50 bonus but also has the privilege of awarding their charity of choice to receive a $250 donation from Stueder Contractors.

The winner of the Festive Crew Challenge will be announced on social media and at Tuesday’s Crew Meeting on Dec. 18.

For more information, please contact Marla Poppelreiter at 620-792-6044 or marla@stueders.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701962014883.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSStueders Contractors, a family owned and operated HVAC, electrical and plumbing service provider in Great Bend, is ushering in the holiday season with an exciting initiative: the Stueders Festive Crew Challenge: Gift of Giving Edition. This competition encourages community involvement and charitable giving. Your vote is needed.For one week only, from Monday, Dec. 11 to Monday, Dec. 18, Stueders will showcase the creativity and holiday spirit of their team members through the Holiday Crew Challenge. Each crew member will be competing for the coveted title of the "Most Festive," with the chance to win a $50 bonus and the honor of selecting a charity to receive a $250 donation in their name.How It Works: The Stueders crew will don their most spirited holiday attire, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm for the season to the company Christmas Party on Saturday, December 9 where they will have their photo taken and select the charity they are competing for. Starting Monday, Dec. 11, photos will be shared on Stueder’s Facebook and Instagram pages so that the challenge may begin.Community Votes: The public is invited to cast their votes on social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram) or in person at Stueders' showroom located at 3410 10th Street in Great Bend, where each like and heart counts towards determining the winner.Gift of Giving: The winning crew member not only receives a $50 bonus but also has the privilege of awarding their charity of choice to receive a $250 donation from Stueder Contractors.The winner of the Festive Crew Challenge will be announced on social media and at Tuesday’s Crew Meeting on Dec. 18.For more information, please contact Marla Poppelreiter at 620-792-6044 or marla@stueders.com.

Great Bend company starts challenge to benefit local charity

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A new holiday event and fundraiser in Great Bend had a lot of success and surprised Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith on the community’s support.


After 17 years of hosting a spaghetti feed, the Great Bend Fire Department
switched to their first Holiday Extravaganza last Saturday at the Great Bend Events Center. 


"It was overwhelming," said Smith. "We didn't expect the event to be quite that big for its first year. We appreciate the citizens that showed up. It's kind of humbling to know that we have that much support in our community."

The Christmas-themed event sold tickets for an evening of barbecue food, a
raffle and entertainment from Dueling Pianos Road Show.&nbsp;

"I was very pleased, and thought the event was very nice for the first time," said Great Bend Mayor Cody Schmidt. The support was overwhelming. It was pretty neat in my opinion."

The Fire Department’s fundraiser in the past has helped the crew raise money to
give back to the community throughout the year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701963807148.png" alt="At the Great Bend City Council meeting on Dec. 4, Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith thanked everyone for attending the Fire Department's first Holiday Extravaganza on Dec. 2." />
 <figcaption>At the Great Bend City Council meeting on Dec. 4, Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith thanked everyone for attending the Fire Department's first Holiday Extravaganza on Dec. 2.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA new holiday event and fundraiser in Great Bend had a lot of success and surprised Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith on the community’s support.
After 17 years of hosting a spaghetti feed, the Great Bend Fire Department
switched to their first Holiday Extravaganza last Saturday at the Great Bend Events Center. 
"It was overwhelming," said Smith. "We didn't expect the event to be quite that big for its first year. We appreciate the citizens that showed up. It's kind of humbling to know that we have that much support in our community."The Christmas-themed event sold tickets for an evening of barbecue food, a
raffle and entertainment from Dueling Pianos Road Show.&nbsp;"I was very pleased, and thought the event was very nice for the first time," said Great Bend Mayor Cody Schmidt. The support was overwhelming. It was pretty neat in my opinion."The Fire Department’s fundraiser in the past has helped the crew raise money to
give back to the community throughout the year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Fire Chief: Humbling to know we have that much support

HAYS, Kan. - A team of students from Fort Hays State narrowly edged out a University of Connecticut team in the inaugural Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge on Nov. 29. The event, sponsored by Peter Werth in collaboration with FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology, challenged participants from FHSU and UCONN with developing start-up business plans focused on sustainable energy, particularly in inventing, designing, and manufacturing portable charging station.

The first-place team received $15,000 in prize money, with the second-place team receiving $10,000.

Students were judged on presentation style, business plan summary, and founder(s) and venture viability. FHSU’s business plan, True Sustainable Energy, focused on a permanent charging station called the “WattSpot,” a charging station that combines green energy technology, comfort of nature, and ease of work into one concept. UCONN’s team created “Solar Sync,” an ADA-compliant charging station that included LED lighting and an e-scooter charging station.

Eric Deneault, associate professor of engineering design technology at FHSU, served as chief organizer and host for the challenge.

“The accomplishments of FHSU and UNCONN students are a testament to their exceptional talents, reflecting positively on their respective universities,” Deneault said. “The experience has been one-of-a-kind, offering valuable educational insight for all participants.

According to one of the event’s judges, Gary Shorman, President, Schmidt Foundation and Chairman of the Board/Chief Development Officer, Eagle Communications, FHSU’s inclusion of a financial plan gave them a slight edge over UCONN.

“When it got to the investor side of things, there was only one team (FHSU) that had a spreadsheet that shows what happens year after year,” Shorman said. “If I was going to invest in the business, I would want to know that information. That was the deciding factor.”

FHSU team members include Tuley Gilliand, KAMS student, Holton; John Brody Groves, senior, Tonganoxie; Bryce Steffan, KAMS student, Ellinwood; Austin Radke, sophomore, Halstead; Sullivan Kelly, senior, Davenport, Iowa; and Joey Olsen, senior, Olathe.

“I am excited about the future evolution of this challenge and the potential for a lasting partnership, fostering entrepreneurship and collaboration among bright young minds from different institutions,” Deneault said. “I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Peter Werth for sponsoring the event, UCONN for their participation, the judges, and my administration for their continued support of undergraduate research and entrepreneurship. Truly a team effort.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701965925130.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By University CommunicationsHAYS, Kan. - A team of students from Fort Hays State narrowly edged out a University of Connecticut team in the inaugural Werth Entrepreneurship Challenge on Nov. 29. The event, sponsored by Peter Werth in collaboration with FHSU’s Department of Applied Technology, challenged participants from FHSU and UCONN with developing start-up business plans focused on sustainable energy, particularly in inventing, designing, and manufacturing portable charging station.The first-place team received $15,000 in prize money, with the second-place team receiving $10,000.Students were judged on presentation style, business plan summary, and founder(s) and venture viability. FHSU’s business plan, True Sustainable Energy, focused on a permanent charging station called the “WattSpot,” a charging station that combines green energy technology, comfort of nature, and ease of work into one concept. UCONN’s team created “Solar Sync,” an ADA-compliant charging station that included LED lighting and an e-scooter charging station.Eric Deneault, associate professor of engineering design technology at FHSU, served as chief organizer and host for the challenge.“The accomplishments of FHSU and UNCONN students are a testament to their exceptional talents, reflecting positively on their respective universities,” Deneault said. “The experience has been one-of-a-kind, offering valuable educational insight for all participants.According to one of the event’s judges, Gary Shorman, President, Schmidt Foundation and Chairman of the Board/Chief Development Officer, Eagle Communications, FHSU’s inclusion of a financial plan gave them a slight edge over UCONN.“When it got to the investor side of things, there was only one team (FHSU) that had a spreadsheet that shows what happens year after year,” Shorman said. “If I was going to invest in the business, I would want to know that information. That was the deciding factor.”FHSU team members include Tuley Gilliand, KAMS student, Holton; John Brody Groves, senior, Tonganoxie; Bryce Steffan, KAMS student, Ellinwood; Austin Radke, sophomore, Halstead; Sullivan Kelly, senior, Davenport, Iowa; and Joey Olsen, senior, Olathe.“I am excited about the future evolution of this challenge and the potential for a lasting partnership, fostering entrepreneurship and collaboration among bright young minds from different institutions,” Deneault said. “I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Peter Werth for sponsoring the event, UCONN for their participation, the judges, and my administration for their continued support of undergraduate research and entrepreneurship. Truly a team effort.”

Ellinwood student part of FHSU's winning entrepreneurship challenge

No one expects Joe Biden to win Kansas in 2024. After all, 1964 was the last time a Democrat won the state. And before that, Kansans voted for Republicans in six straight presidential contests, including strong opposition to popular incumbent Franklin D. Roosvelt in 1940 and 1944.

However, the political monopoly is not complete. There is a center. And recent advances by Democrats illustrate its vitality.

For example, in 2020, Joe Biden’s Kansas vote share – 42% was the best by a Democrat in over 30 years. Only Michael Dukakis in 1988 – 42.5% and Jimmy Carter in 1976 – 44.9% secured higher percentages. Moreover, Biden flipped Republican counties Johnson, Shawnee, and Riley, where about a third of Kansans live. In Johnson County, Kansas’s wealthiest, Biden crushed historical margins, capturing the highest ever vote share for a Democrat at 52.7%. Johnson County’s statehouse delegation is now mostly Democrat as well.

Though Biden lost Sedgwick County, which is the state’s second largest, his 43% result was a noteworthy improvement from Clinton’s 36.3% in 2016 and Obama’s 39.4% in 2012.

Biden’s gains were in part due to centrist appeals that attracted moderates, independents, as well as significant support from wealthy Kansans.

The Governor’s office also demonstrates centrism. Starting with Robert Docking in the late 1960’s, five of the past ten governors have been Democrats and three of them won a second term. In 2022, Democrat Governor Laura Kelly secured nearly 60% of the vote in Johnson, Shawnee, and Riley counties and won a majority in Sedgwick County. Nevertheless, a certain kind of Democrat is required. A successful Democrat runs a disciplined and balanced campaign, sticking to bread and butter issues while avoiding divisive culture war battles. Finally, rejection of the proposed state constitutional abortion amendment shows the effectiveness of a centrist approach. The abortion vote was not about Democrats and Republicans. Rather, abortion rights advocates separated women’s rights from conventional partisan trappings. They recast abortion as a fundamental liberty, a right of Kansans to make decisions for themselves without government intrusion. This small government personal freedom perspective expanded the pool of supporters drawing moderate Republicans and Independents. The fall 2022 Kansas Speaks opinion survey makes this clear. More than half – 57.5% of Kansans agreed that Kansas government should not place any regulations on the circumstances under which women can get abortions. Nearly 40% of Republicans and 56% of Independents agreed.

Likewise, 70% of Kansans agreed that women are in a better position than politicians to make their own choice about abortion. A majority of Republicans agreed as did 69% of Independents.

To be clear, Kansas is a conservative state where registered Republicans – 45% far outnumber Democrats – 26%. Recent Democrat inroads do not of course portend a thundering majority favoring Joe Biden. But it would be a mistake to ignore the successes of centrist candidates. A few years ago, while browsing through the Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene, I discovered a fascinating exhibit called Eisenhower’s Middle Road. Displayed prominently was Ike’s thoughts on centrism:

“The middle of the road is all the usable surface. The extremes, right and left, are in the gutters.”

So, for a moment, let’s avert our eyes from the red-blue spectacle. Now we can grasp what Kansas’s most popular and successful public figure realized. There is a middle way. And working from the middle, things can be accomplished that the extremes believe impossible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="written by: Dr. Mark Joslyn, professor of political science at the University of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>written by: Dr. Mark Joslyn, professor of political science at the University of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>No one expects Joe Biden to win Kansas in 2024. After all, 1964 was the last time a Democrat won the state. And before that, Kansans voted for Republicans in six straight presidential contests, including strong opposition to popular incumbent Franklin D. Roosvelt in 1940 and 1944.Kansas is red, and everyone knows it.However, the political monopoly is not complete. There is a center. And recent advances by Democrats illustrate its vitality.For example, in 2020, Joe Biden’s Kansas vote share – 42% was the best by a Democrat in over 30 years. Only Michael Dukakis in 1988 – 42.5% and Jimmy Carter in 1976 – 44.9% secured higher percentages. Moreover, Biden flipped Republican counties Johnson, Shawnee, and Riley, where about a third of Kansans live. In Johnson County, Kansas’s wealthiest, Biden crushed historical margins, capturing the highest ever vote share for a Democrat at 52.7%. Johnson County’s statehouse delegation is now mostly Democrat as well.Though Biden lost Sedgwick County, which is the state’s second largest, his 43% result was a noteworthy improvement from Clinton’s 36.3% in 2016 and Obama’s 39.4% in 2012.Biden’s gains were in part due to centrist appeals that attracted moderates, independents, as well as significant support from wealthy Kansans.The Governor’s office also demonstrates centrism. Starting with Robert Docking in the late 1960’s, five of the past ten governors have been Democrats and three of them won a second term. In 2022, Democrat Governor Laura Kelly secured nearly 60% of the vote in Johnson, Shawnee, and Riley counties and won a majority in Sedgwick County. Nevertheless, a certain kind of Democrat is required. A successful Democrat runs a disciplined and balanced campaign, sticking to bread and butter issues while avoiding divisive culture war battles. Finally, rejection of the proposed state constitutional abortion amendment shows the effectiveness of a centrist approach. The abortion vote was not about Democrats and Republicans. Rather, abortion rights advocates separated women’s rights from conventional partisan trappings. They recast abortion as a fundamental liberty, a right of Kansans to make decisions for themselves without government intrusion. This small government personal freedom perspective expanded the pool of supporters drawing moderate Republicans and Independents. The fall 2022 Kansas Speaks opinion survey makes this clear. More than half – 57.5% of Kansans agreed that Kansas government should not place any regulations on the circumstances under which women can get abortions. Nearly 40% of Republicans and 56% of Independents agreed.Likewise, 70% of Kansans agreed that women are in a better position than politicians to make their own choice about abortion. A majority of Republicans agreed as did 69% of Independents.To be clear, Kansas is a conservative state where registered Republicans – 45% far outnumber Democrats – 26%. Recent Democrat inroads do not of course portend a thundering majority favoring Joe Biden. But it would be a mistake to ignore the successes of centrist candidates. A few years ago, while browsing through the Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene, I discovered a fascinating exhibit called Eisenhower’s Middle Road. Displayed prominently was Ike’s thoughts on centrism:“The middle of the road is all the usable surface. The extremes, right and left, are in the gutters.”So, for a moment, let’s avert our eyes from the red-blue spectacle. Now we can grasp what Kansas’s most popular and successful public figure realized. There is a middle way. And working from the middle, things can be accomplished that the extremes believe impossible.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Middle of the road

Grab a friend and join Barton County Young Professionals for the annual Young Professionals Christmas Party with a Purpose on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. The holiday party is one of the many ways YP members give back to the community. The "party with a purpose" combines holiday merriment with an opportunity to GIVE BACK to children in need in Barton County. This year's event is sponsored and hosted by Barton Community College with the Shafer Art Gallery as an additional host.

BCYP members will be asked to donate items to build packages for children served by Central Kansas CASA, Inc. Attendees are asked to bring items to fill these bags. Your assignment (and sizes, if applicable) will be provided following your RSVP. Donations will be accepted at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce office now through the day of the event for those who are unable to attend but still want to participate.

After dropping off your contribution to these special packages, event sponsors invite you to enjoy food and beverages.

&nbsp;After you RSVP, BCYP will contact you via email about what item(s) to bring. Anyone 21+ years of age who lives in the Barton County Area is welcome and encouraged to attend this free event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701961308776.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grab a friend and join Barton County Young Professionals for the annual Young Professionals Christmas Party with a Purpose on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. The holiday party is one of the many ways YP members give back to the community. The "party with a purpose" combines holiday merriment with an opportunity to GIVE BACK to children in need in Barton County. This year's event is sponsored and hosted by Barton Community College with the Shafer Art Gallery as an additional host.RSVP is required. BCYP members will be asked to donate items to build packages for children served by Central Kansas CASA, Inc. Attendees are asked to bring items to fill these bags. Your assignment (and sizes, if applicable) will be provided following your RSVP. Donations will be accepted at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce office now through the day of the event for those who are unable to attend but still want to participate.After dropping off your contribution to these special packages, event sponsors invite you to enjoy food and beverages.&nbsp;After you RSVP, BCYP will contact you via email about what item(s) to bring. Anyone 21+ years of age who lives in the Barton County Area is welcome and encouraged to attend this free event.

'Party with a Purpose' to benefit children in Barton Co.

Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for your favorite baker or need a new offering for the holiday spread? Don’t forget to order your copy of the 2023 Kansas Wheat Commission Recipe Book. This year’s recipe book features the winning entries from the 2023 National Festival of Breads (NFOB), making it a must-have for recipe collectors and home bakers alike.

“The 2023 Kansas Wheat Commission Recipe book is filled with original and tasty recipes for both basic bakers and skilled dough shapers,” said Cindy Falk, Kansas Wheat nutrition educator and co-director of the National Festival of Breads. “Developing and distributing our recipe book is an annual tradition with a long history of providing inspiring, well-tested recipes from the heart of America’s breadbasket.”&nbsp;

This recipe book’s cover features&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRVhVwGVFBrlauL-w6pBHgSzKYPV9Q22eyiL7i27gHOk_zs3dXQ9BIeP7lSPpTN-gd-8GW6EkDTr-4aDMIppCcxBbfL5DKsxuKpd1m4356iF14sUdP_WIUp7gfZ07QRphbHgkhJhrbwuh86emVWaJBLVS-JzqI8uip&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Cheese Lover’s Barbecue Bread Twists</a>, developed by Gloria Piantek of West Lafayette, Indiana. The combination of three types of cheese, sweet and smoky seasoning rub and crunchy smoked almonds — all twisted around a center of melted cheese — earned the “Best of Breads” champion for the 2023 NFOB, the nation’s only amateur bread-baking competition.&nbsp;

The eighth NFOB, conducted virtually in June 2023, was sponsored by King Arthur Baking Company® and Kansas Wheat, carrying on a proud tradition of celebrating the creativity of home baking. Additional contributions were made by Stafford County Flour Mills Company, Kansas Soybean Commission, Kansas Corn Commission, Texas Wheat, HyVee of Manhattan, and Manhattan Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau.&nbsp;

Also included in the recipe book are other top recipes from the NFOB, including winners in the Go Nuts category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRHYBKWwPcp-ibYYvbhh99zsBOfiD0_hNnv4N5C8KQTaCUW2P9RNiYfB7-WJQaOrqYzWvtcb7A6_VDrYpGFvZ7yttH4jAyS8ZnteLK6Qe_2YtoD5z27wPtVZtwLCcclDd-_Cz86B-yFvQSvZNZJqIUug==&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Mocha Coffee Pecan Babka</a>, the Quick &amp; Easy category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYi01csQCZhne99HA0kMAEvPMpjNrz_xXoWG775hsWWVSDnLQ2WO3bKwwK4hCMkBI6TSmYlH3OVeadpk5Mf2gZ4pzy6ClHH8M4ZNgG5UNyLUmk2q92MAAlpGnNVU9lDkUJcuOj2F9Lk4FKk6Kvwv8yeVQoxG7WHaCHuiXcS8ssJ6rg&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Nutty Pumpkin Cranberry Dinner Rolls</a>&nbsp;and the Wholesome &amp; Healthy category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR3BU4lvN-PwsLncMM0G91YTqDhCyr0dtJM0JqFkyXnuqMQzg_shyLuVswGfmFi8dQ0gI4Vw3V35ip-1rgYuhrizfsWNGbG0HzcNo4ZEhHWper2PbC8nOORFfd300v7megoD6nMNrIYHI=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Knotty 7 Grain Rolls</a>. The book also features recipes receiving honorable mentions at the contest, including&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMrmezEJp9xVjeRFetXUDLrBx0fhHI7nEDaJIi5cn147MSKGOKkBfXE_TvmPxQDrzUOnqk0QFULmIdTGMtdaosDGIysKphEOAcijkXRpZujUJ15W3l8HoVL3hJ5kc7m9mtq-enrEk5LwN5rcclDy9RYv6g_LPsD5v&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Bleu Berry Thyme English Muffin Bread</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRALoxeIXYCQ_xJ_e_-AKo0SqAHphnmGRqYkMPf6OgLisiLUUUKr04dlLexcNfMf4OR2MUko7Z0OHCAlBZ90Z8JNgC3aPf-nIxNtSxrctPNhQyl0-eW0ZrWWOs_VZGdwzVe0fZOzrfYFu4xVJ00zprsnL1npiwa6bi&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Brown Butter Baklava Sticky Buns</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRTFi-RF3lunW4DBXahIeWDB8wZGPucrs7zm9j39U54MyKPObB7MemUMQoxxVHz2OLG5UQFdtoP1bpNorYgUgGr22R50BaqHfM3Q0EcnCyYKJ3PkYuml7bRluDVcU8PHQ0JFKk85OKGCw=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Everything Gouda Rolls</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMktyDz0vMX_WBEiX5EusCl2pXJx6xgkgBIwthC4SG3ActaemM1bkRNFpZ_JtWkYn8ASSDpVLbXwx_fUy3DZCiDx-8Kf5scZPlSLWL6Rxi0lzKBdrupsf7jskIqLU_YumaZvPAIYZSqNMIIeqSiPknQ==&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Go Nuts Sticky Cinnamon Rolls</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR0TNNlsomtsZY0XZuPy_JsZj-Af00Wz8TOeoH8FdHaecivFzNulhiEGJKuz0QdqAdCN8ykJW09_Ns8f0O51t8RVDsYLFHdx4xX3Zw3ij6iI0YwnSO4dO488FHOGLyZPNra2x9EikH9imtReK2dWpBUsLD2ZwO3AzW&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Marble Rye and Swiss Cheese Bombs</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR5-YVee_2xLWpA_o-8uMHPE5wn-Hlj-CXHM-F9yANPvI5oNZeN1pb9a3mntHNJDNb5tnVti5TW37iSj3LWjPBTnwuRna4N-XDGTpW8tsrPxOw34gxUt5fMVcu-cgbSvJum0q8eg_JjlY7O5bOLZSbCU-t6C_uhvE2&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Nutty Peanut Butter Cinnamon Braids</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMs8yII2KRvOF_ruTCR8ueRRAOe5wdk-Qv0fkHF2TSB4rC7A_MCOe23FQeI5R9HwsOKL9AP6GW7AWeBZGm5yMOaVkqzTMtBC2MT-NolzLIPvm3CKpsmRM3HvuZV0dctWKejMGPOA4hei24Es9CVoiYiMf-qFQgUBM&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Twisted Double Cheese and Zucchini Loaf</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRK3mbjt9mNjJk64NZKJ7iAylhF9DG_N4_7dGvLSSkWg4Vx1jmVUckIzP0xfRiNAP3zCLsJBmL_KqIL2LYH-mSORtQfbWfIkcM7A8KBb7EQQmrmMZJmVAAJp266ZkUGamtb20wvRHmog83ekadinYxgn6IYS2IBsJA&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Two Way Pineapple Sweet Potato Bread</a>.&nbsp;

“We love hearing how bakers use these recipes throughout the year — whether they become your family’s new favorite or the next ribbon-winning entry at your county fair,” Falk said. “You can count on these recipes to work, and the creative ingredient combinations, shapes and undeniable taste make these recipes perfect for your holiday gatherings.”&nbsp;

Recipes for each year’s book are hand-selected by teams of judges and tested by Falk at the Syngenta Speak for Wheat Test Kitchen at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan. Linda Beech, K-State Research and Extension agent, emeritus, also helped test this year’s recipes and distributed books in mid-October at the annual conference for K-State Research and Extension county agents.&nbsp;

Snag this year’s recipe book to stuff your stockings or add something new to your holiday baking. Request a free copy of the recipe book&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRDcPQ697hzBelYW_h2lq5F_qJG9amGnGOZTXgmFEc7qniaLviSdvXtyKl4OxTT7e02YdTxCnEdzhMRrmiBoaQ7sNATzqLcsFGeom9cjoqOJPvZYn5HqFDt0DjeX_W0p9DG7a6sXmwKTA=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">kswheat.com/recipebook</a>&nbsp;or check out this year’s recipes online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMe1d7xYTI_MgZORjd982tc_96QfOI0b67Q2xJQ00nXBKxbmqvHDSdwZlL3pDZ7sJRmXjfWnwiwA-cmiCMEV2p2kf_kAng15ODiS9EGJouTFElhO7e5cm364pe9A1ksBM&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">https://nationalfestivalofbreads.com/recipes</a>.&nbsp;

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701964282648.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for your favorite baker or need a new offering for the holiday spread? Don’t forget to order your copy of the 2023 Kansas Wheat Commission Recipe Book. This year’s recipe book features the winning entries from the 2023 National Festival of Breads (NFOB), making it a must-have for recipe collectors and home bakers alike.“The 2023 Kansas Wheat Commission Recipe book is filled with original and tasty recipes for both basic bakers and skilled dough shapers,” said Cindy Falk, Kansas Wheat nutrition educator and co-director of the National Festival of Breads. “Developing and distributing our recipe book is an annual tradition with a long history of providing inspiring, well-tested recipes from the heart of America’s breadbasket.”&nbsp;This recipe book’s cover features&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRVhVwGVFBrlauL-w6pBHgSzKYPV9Q22eyiL7i27gHOk_zs3dXQ9BIeP7lSPpTN-gd-8GW6EkDTr-4aDMIppCcxBbfL5DKsxuKpd1m4356iF14sUdP_WIUp7gfZ07QRphbHgkhJhrbwuh86emVWaJBLVS-JzqI8uip&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Cheese Lover’s Barbecue Bread Twists</a>, developed by Gloria Piantek of West Lafayette, Indiana. The combination of three types of cheese, sweet and smoky seasoning rub and crunchy smoked almonds — all twisted around a center of melted cheese — earned the “Best of Breads” champion for the 2023 NFOB, the nation’s only amateur bread-baking competition.&nbsp;The eighth NFOB, conducted virtually in June 2023, was sponsored by King Arthur Baking Company® and Kansas Wheat, carrying on a proud tradition of celebrating the creativity of home baking. Additional contributions were made by Stafford County Flour Mills Company, Kansas Soybean Commission, Kansas Corn Commission, Texas Wheat, HyVee of Manhattan, and Manhattan Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau.&nbsp;Also included in the recipe book are other top recipes from the NFOB, including winners in the Go Nuts category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRHYBKWwPcp-ibYYvbhh99zsBOfiD0_hNnv4N5C8KQTaCUW2P9RNiYfB7-WJQaOrqYzWvtcb7A6_VDrYpGFvZ7yttH4jAyS8ZnteLK6Qe_2YtoD5z27wPtVZtwLCcclDd-_Cz86B-yFvQSvZNZJqIUug==&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Mocha Coffee Pecan Babka</a>, the Quick &amp; Easy category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYi01csQCZhne99HA0kMAEvPMpjNrz_xXoWG775hsWWVSDnLQ2WO3bKwwK4hCMkBI6TSmYlH3OVeadpk5Mf2gZ4pzy6ClHH8M4ZNgG5UNyLUmk2q92MAAlpGnNVU9lDkUJcuOj2F9Lk4FKk6Kvwv8yeVQoxG7WHaCHuiXcS8ssJ6rg&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Nutty Pumpkin Cranberry Dinner Rolls</a>&nbsp;and the Wholesome &amp; Healthy category —&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR3BU4lvN-PwsLncMM0G91YTqDhCyr0dtJM0JqFkyXnuqMQzg_shyLuVswGfmFi8dQ0gI4Vw3V35ip-1rgYuhrizfsWNGbG0HzcNo4ZEhHWper2PbC8nOORFfd300v7megoD6nMNrIYHI=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Knotty 7 Grain Rolls</a>. The book also features recipes receiving honorable mentions at the contest, including&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMrmezEJp9xVjeRFetXUDLrBx0fhHI7nEDaJIi5cn147MSKGOKkBfXE_TvmPxQDrzUOnqk0QFULmIdTGMtdaosDGIysKphEOAcijkXRpZujUJ15W3l8HoVL3hJ5kc7m9mtq-enrEk5LwN5rcclDy9RYv6g_LPsD5v&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Bleu Berry Thyme English Muffin Bread</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRALoxeIXYCQ_xJ_e_-AKo0SqAHphnmGRqYkMPf6OgLisiLUUUKr04dlLexcNfMf4OR2MUko7Z0OHCAlBZ90Z8JNgC3aPf-nIxNtSxrctPNhQyl0-eW0ZrWWOs_VZGdwzVe0fZOzrfYFu4xVJ00zprsnL1npiwa6bi&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Brown Butter Baklava Sticky Buns</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRTFi-RF3lunW4DBXahIeWDB8wZGPucrs7zm9j39U54MyKPObB7MemUMQoxxVHz2OLG5UQFdtoP1bpNorYgUgGr22R50BaqHfM3Q0EcnCyYKJ3PkYuml7bRluDVcU8PHQ0JFKk85OKGCw=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Everything Gouda Rolls</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMktyDz0vMX_WBEiX5EusCl2pXJx6xgkgBIwthC4SG3ActaemM1bkRNFpZ_JtWkYn8ASSDpVLbXwx_fUy3DZCiDx-8Kf5scZPlSLWL6Rxi0lzKBdrupsf7jskIqLU_YumaZvPAIYZSqNMIIeqSiPknQ==&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Go Nuts Sticky Cinnamon Rolls</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR0TNNlsomtsZY0XZuPy_JsZj-Af00Wz8TOeoH8FdHaecivFzNulhiEGJKuz0QdqAdCN8ykJW09_Ns8f0O51t8RVDsYLFHdx4xX3Zw3ij6iI0YwnSO4dO488FHOGLyZPNra2x9EikH9imtReK2dWpBUsLD2ZwO3AzW&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Marble Rye and Swiss Cheese Bombs</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mR5-YVee_2xLWpA_o-8uMHPE5wn-Hlj-CXHM-F9yANPvI5oNZeN1pb9a3mntHNJDNb5tnVti5TW37iSj3LWjPBTnwuRna4N-XDGTpW8tsrPxOw34gxUt5fMVcu-cgbSvJum0q8eg_JjlY7O5bOLZSbCU-t6C_uhvE2&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Nutty Peanut Butter Cinnamon Braids</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMs8yII2KRvOF_ruTCR8ueRRAOe5wdk-Qv0fkHF2TSB4rC7A_MCOe23FQeI5R9HwsOKL9AP6GW7AWeBZGm5yMOaVkqzTMtBC2MT-NolzLIPvm3CKpsmRM3HvuZV0dctWKejMGPOA4hei24Es9CVoiYiMf-qFQgUBM&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Twisted Double Cheese and Zucchini Loaf</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRK3mbjt9mNjJk64NZKJ7iAylhF9DG_N4_7dGvLSSkWg4Vx1jmVUckIzP0xfRiNAP3zCLsJBmL_KqIL2LYH-mSORtQfbWfIkcM7A8KBb7EQQmrmMZJmVAAJp266ZkUGamtb20wvRHmog83ekadinYxgn6IYS2IBsJA&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">Two Way Pineapple Sweet Potato Bread</a>.&nbsp;“We love hearing how bakers use these recipes throughout the year — whether they become your family’s new favorite or the next ribbon-winning entry at your county fair,” Falk said. “You can count on these recipes to work, and the creative ingredient combinations, shapes and undeniable taste make these recipes perfect for your holiday gatherings.”&nbsp;Recipes for each year’s book are hand-selected by teams of judges and tested by Falk at the Syngenta Speak for Wheat Test Kitchen at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan. Linda Beech, K-State Research and Extension agent, emeritus, also helped test this year’s recipes and distributed books in mid-October at the annual conference for K-State Research and Extension county agents.&nbsp;Snag this year’s recipe book to stuff your stockings or add something new to your holiday baking. Request a free copy of the recipe book&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRDcPQ697hzBelYW_h2lq5F_qJG9amGnGOZTXgmFEc7qniaLviSdvXtyKl4OxTT7e02YdTxCnEdzhMRrmiBoaQ7sNATzqLcsFGeom9cjoqOJPvZYn5HqFDt0DjeX_W0p9DG7a6sXmwKTA=&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">kswheat.com/recipebook</a>&nbsp;or check out this year’s recipes online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-eZHbXlIgxUf9yE04WhuhoOYt6TQJuc66WdfwLjzvO14FTpomfwYiz_GchhVg0mRMe1d7xYTI_MgZORjd982tc_96QfOI0b67Q2xJQ00nXBKxbmqvHDSdwZlL3pDZ7sJRmXjfWnwiwA-cmiCMEV2p2kf_kAng15ODiS9EGJouTFElhO7e5cm364pe9A1ksBM&amp;c=qxQr5-xZcJQHhn8YGN61CYJ66UAqtdY0kwb0mefB4xk8kuGnTqfwjg==&amp;ch=qgY1o2ryaX9BX36ED4C840Lk7gdryZr0ZEW_TB8MaRE6mzCtDZjpLw==" target="_blank">https://nationalfestivalofbreads.com/recipes</a>.&nbsp;Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Get the 2023 Kansas Wheat Recipe Book

KEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney students continue to receive national recognition for their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/communications/index.php">excellence in broadcasting</a>.

Lopers are finalists in seven categories for the 2023-24 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Media Awards competition, which includes campus radio and television stations from across the country.

The sports broadcasting team for KLPR 91.1 FM received multiple nods, including best football play-by-play (Jon Willis of Omaha and Kade Mohr of North Platte), best sports update (“Loper Update” with Willis, Ethan McCormick of Bennington, Traeton Harimon of Bayard and Alex Hammeke of Ellinwood, Kansas) and best sports director (Willis).

Hammeke is also a finalist for best news promotion and Rhiannon Painter of Valentine, Seth Heikes of Bennington, Paige Steinman of Emerson and Morgan Semm of Dannebrog teamed up to create a best public service announcement nominee.

On the video side, recent UNK graduate Grace McDonald of Rockville is a finalist for best news report and “Talking UNK” featuring Logan Grose of Lawrence, Kansas, and the Video @ The Antelope production team received a nomination for best talk program.

The IBS Media Awards will be presented March 2 during the organization’s annual conference in New York City.

UNK students were also recognized during the recent International Student Broadcasting Championship, a global competition launched this year by Australia-based Ramp Media.

Harimon won the best sports play-by-play category with Hammeke as color commentator. Willis was also a finalist in that category with Alexis Sander of Gothenburg as color commentator.

The International Student Broadcasting Championship includes radio, podcast, video and digital content creation and e-sports broadcasting. It’s judged by industry professionals representing leading companies worldwide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701959171283.jpeg" alt="Former Ellinwood High School and Barton Community College student Alex Hammeke." />
 <figcaption>Former Ellinwood High School and Barton Community College student Alex Hammeke.</figcaption>
 </figure>From&nbsp;unknews.unk.eduKEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney students continue to receive national recognition for their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/communications/index.php">excellence in broadcasting</a>.Lopers are finalists in seven categories for the 2023-24 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Media Awards competition, which includes campus radio and television stations from across the country.The sports broadcasting team for KLPR 91.1 FM received multiple nods, including best football play-by-play (Jon Willis of Omaha and Kade Mohr of North Platte), best sports update (“Loper Update” with Willis, Ethan McCormick of Bennington, Traeton Harimon of Bayard and Alex Hammeke of Ellinwood, Kansas) and best sports director (Willis).Hammeke is also a finalist for best news promotion and Rhiannon Painter of Valentine, Seth Heikes of Bennington, Paige Steinman of Emerson and Morgan Semm of Dannebrog teamed up to create a best public service announcement nominee.On the video side, recent UNK graduate Grace McDonald of Rockville is a finalist for best news report and “Talking UNK” featuring Logan Grose of Lawrence, Kansas, and the Video @ The Antelope production team received a nomination for best talk program.The IBS Media Awards will be presented March 2 during the organization’s annual conference in New York City.UNK students were also recognized during the recent International Student Broadcasting Championship, a global competition launched this year by Australia-based Ramp Media.Harimon won the best sports play-by-play category with Hammeke as color commentator. Willis was also a finalist in that category with Alexis Sander of Gothenburg as color commentator.The International Student Broadcasting Championship includes radio, podcast, video and digital content creation and e-sports broadcasting. It’s judged by industry professionals representing leading companies worldwide.

Ellinwood native nominated for national broadcasting awards

The new year is right around the corner, and now is the time to create health goals for 2024. Making healthy choices is something we get to do every day, but it does not have to be overwhelming. In fact, simply walking every day can improve heart health, strengthen the lungs, improve the quality of sleep, and fight osteoporosis! If walking to improve health is something you are interested in, a Walk with Ease class may be for you.

Walk with Ease (WWE) is here to help people with arthritis or other related conditions reduce pain, increase balance, strength, walking pace, and improve overall health. Walk with Ease is not only an evidence-based program, but it’s also fun! Participants have the opportunity to walk, stretch, and socialize during each session. WWE is a class created by the National Arthritis Foundation, and it is offered through Kansas State Research &amp; Extension.

Walk with Ease provides pain management and physical activity education to individuals and families. These classes include an educational book that covers various topics about walking and arthritis management, and the $12 registration fee covers the price of the book. Walk with Ease classes aim to help each participant implement realistic goals, maintain a long-term physical activity routine, and help Kansans find resources to stay active.

Are you ready to make the healthy choice the easy choice? Do you want to learn how to improve mobility and decrease pain? Are you eager to learn how to develop a personal walking plan?

Join us for our next Walk with Ease class that kicks off on Jan. 8! This indoor class will take place from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on MWF at the Hoisington Recreation Center in Hoisington, KS. Participants who attend and complete 14 of 18 classes in this Walk with Ease Series will be eligible to receive fitness equipment.

For more information, please contact Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agent to register, at krwinkel@ksu.edu, 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The new year is right around the corner, and now is the time to create health goals for 2024. Making healthy choices is something we get to do every day, but it does not have to be overwhelming. In fact, simply walking every day can improve heart health, strengthen the lungs, improve the quality of sleep, and fight osteoporosis! If walking to improve health is something you are interested in, a Walk with Ease class may be for you.Walk with Ease (WWE) is here to help people with arthritis or other related conditions reduce pain, increase balance, strength, walking pace, and improve overall health. Walk with Ease is not only an evidence-based program, but it’s also fun! Participants have the opportunity to walk, stretch, and socialize during each session. WWE is a class created by the National Arthritis Foundation, and it is offered through Kansas State Research &amp; Extension.Walk with Ease provides pain management and physical activity education to individuals and families. These classes include an educational book that covers various topics about walking and arthritis management, and the $12 registration fee covers the price of the book. Walk with Ease classes aim to help each participant implement realistic goals, maintain a long-term physical activity routine, and help Kansans find resources to stay active.Are you ready to make the healthy choice the easy choice? Do you want to learn how to improve mobility and decrease pain? Are you eager to learn how to develop a personal walking plan?Join us for our next Walk with Ease class that kicks off on Jan. 8! This indoor class will take place from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on MWF at the Hoisington Recreation Center in Hoisington, KS. Participants who attend and complete 14 of 18 classes in this Walk with Ease Series will be eligible to receive fitness equipment.For more information, please contact Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agent to register, at krwinkel@ksu.edu, 620-793-1910.

WINKEL: Walk with Ease is coming to Hoisington

The Barton Community College basketball teams will travel to Liberal Saturday, Dec. 9 to play Seward County.

You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.

The Cougar women play at 2 p.m. with the men's game to follow. The pregame show begins at 1:45 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604702295823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College basketball teams will travel to Liberal Saturday, Dec. 9 to play Seward County.You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.The Cougar women play at 2 p.m. with the men's game to follow. The pregame show begins at 1:45 p.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 at Seward County

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/99659194-42e0-4a62-b8c0-f1de5d5b5726">Proposal to consolidate Juvenile Services &amp; CKCC in Barton's district</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/8242469c-c1bd-47a1-963b-33dff3b6e0fe">Kayak rentals coming to both Stone Lake and Vets Lake in Great Bend</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c417b430-4c7c-49b3-a72d-737935e06c35">Demolition rolling through vacant Great Bend hotel</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701712693632.jpeg" alt="Juvenile Services&nbsp; and Interim Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Marissa Woodmansee speaks to&nbsp; Barton County Commissioners Monday morning." />
 <figcaption>Juvenile Services&nbsp; and Interim Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Marissa Woodmansee speaks to&nbsp; Barton County Commissioners Monday morning.</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/DU08jlrb-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Week In Review 12-5-23" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/99659194-42e0-4a62-b8c0-f1de5d5b5726">Proposal to consolidate Juvenile Services &amp; CKCC in Barton's district</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/8242469c-c1bd-47a1-963b-33dff3b6e0fe">Kayak rentals coming to both Stone Lake and Vets Lake in Great Bend</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c417b430-4c7c-49b3-a72d-737935e06c35">Demolition rolling through vacant Great Bend hotel</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

Story by Michael Dawes Rosewood Services PR Director

This year is twice as nice for Great Bend business owner Betty Hazlett. After winning the Great Bend Cookie Contest for the first time last year, she successfully defended the crown this year. Hazlett’s store, Forever Young (Kids Resale), located at 1101 Main, was named Great Bend Cookie Contest Champion for the second consecutive year. The 15th Annual Great Bend Cookie Contest was held in downtown Great Bend on Nov. 25 during a snowy day on Small Business Saturday.

“Last year was more of a surprise to us that we won,” explained Hazlett. “This year, we had a better idea of how to win. You have to know what you are doing when baking so many cookies. You can’t bake a cookie that will be too crisp the next day. And there’s no way you can do this on your own. You need a good team to bake all the cookies correctly.”

Competing in her fourth consecutive Great Bend Cookie Contest, Hazlett’s baking team included daughters Rachelle Hapes, and Tara Hazlett, along with Elizabeth Ibarra; the same team that took last year’s cookie prize. This year, Forever Young chose to bake a snickerdoodle with cream cheese frosting. Hazlett said she prefers this year’s cookie over last year’s winner, a mini cheesecake with berries cookie.

The weekend before this year’s contest, the team tried out three different cookie recipes. Once the snickerdoodle was chosen, they made and froze the dough balls, ready for their long baking day on Friday before the contest.

“We baked, and we baked, and we baked” explained Hazlett. “It was eight cookies a sheet, 10 minutes a cookie sheet in the oven for a total of 5 1/2 hours of steady baking.”

Forever Young won the contest with 42 votes, followed by A440 Music with 28 votes (warm salted caramel chocolate chip), and Great Bend Coffee took third with 17 votes (pumpkin snickerdoodle with frosting).

In what has become a post-Thanksgiving tradition, more than 130 cookie judges donated at least $10 for a cookie bracelet, which allowed them to visit 11 Great Bend businesses and taste cookies before voting on their favorite one. For the first time in four years, cookie bracelets did not sell out, but record proceeds still went to the Community Food Bank of Barton County to help feed those in need during the holiday season and beyond. This year’s contest resulted in $1,485 that has been donated to the Food Bank. That’s $105 more than last year’s previous record.

Businesses participating in this year’s Great Bend Cookie Contest, besides Forever Young, were Rosewood Furniture Gallery (Cookie Headquarters); Kustom Floor Designs; Buckle; Great Bend Coffee; Bling; Rosewood Bargain Barn; A440 Musical Instruments; Heart of Kansas/Ms. Pretty Pickles; The Wright Place; and Rosewood Wine Cellar.

According to Great Bend Cookie Contest organizers, bragging rights for the contest is a fun part of the event, the true significance of the contest are the proceeds generated by the contest to help those within the community, who are in need.

“While winning the cookie contest is important, and we congratulate Forever Young for defending its cookie title, we are so thankful to all the stores and cookie judges for participating,” said Anna Hammond, business development director for Rosewood Services. “With the inclement weather, it would have been easy for people not to participate this year, but because of everyone who did, we were able to donate a record amount from our contest to the Food Bank of Barton County.”

As part of activities wrapped into Small Business Saturday, cookie contest businesses also donated prizes, which were awarded to cookie contest participants during a drawing the following Monday.&nbsp;

By winning two consecutive years, Forever Young is chasing the greatness of A440 Musical Instruments, which was crowned Great Bend Cookie Champion five of the previous six years before last year. And Hazlett seems to be up for the challenge to defend her title next year.

“My kids are excited about the contest,” explained Hazlett. “I’ve already started receiving recipe ideas for next year from them. Yes, we’re planning to do the contest again next year. The pressure mounts, it’s hard to keep winning; it’s also a lot of work, but we have a lot of fun doing it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702042952906.jpeg" alt="Forever Young (Kids Resale) store owner Betty Hazlett stands with her (second consecutive) framed Cookie Champion certificate, surrounded by racks of children’s clothing. Said Hazlett, “I love the Cookie Contest because it brings in people who don’t normally come in to our store. They get the opportunity to find out what our store is about.” Forever Young sells gently used children’s clothing up to size 18, maternity clothing, toys, books, shoes, outwear, blankets and other accessories." />
 <figcaption>Forever Young (Kids Resale) store owner Betty Hazlett stands with her (second consecutive) framed Cookie Champion certificate, surrounded by racks of children’s clothing. Said Hazlett, “I love the Cookie Contest because it brings in people who don’t normally come in to our store. They get the opportunity to find out what our store is about.” Forever Young sells gently used children’s clothing up to size 18, maternity clothing, toys, books, shoes, outwear, blankets and other accessories.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Michael Dawes Rosewood Services PR DirectorThis year is twice as nice for Great Bend business owner Betty Hazlett. After winning the Great Bend Cookie Contest for the first time last year, she successfully defended the crown this year. Hazlett’s store, Forever Young (Kids Resale), located at 1101 Main, was named Great Bend Cookie Contest Champion for the second consecutive year. The 15th Annual Great Bend Cookie Contest was held in downtown Great Bend on Nov. 25 during a snowy day on Small Business Saturday.“Last year was more of a surprise to us that we won,” explained Hazlett. “This year, we had a better idea of how to win. You have to know what you are doing when baking so many cookies. You can’t bake a cookie that will be too crisp the next day. And there’s no way you can do this on your own. You need a good team to bake all the cookies correctly.”Competing in her fourth consecutive Great Bend Cookie Contest, Hazlett’s baking team included daughters Rachelle Hapes, and Tara Hazlett, along with Elizabeth Ibarra; the same team that took last year’s cookie prize. This year, Forever Young chose to bake a snickerdoodle with cream cheese frosting. Hazlett said she prefers this year’s cookie over last year’s winner, a mini cheesecake with berries cookie.The weekend before this year’s contest, the team tried out three different cookie recipes. Once the snickerdoodle was chosen, they made and froze the dough balls, ready for their long baking day on Friday before the contest.“We baked, and we baked, and we baked” explained Hazlett. “It was eight cookies a sheet, 10 minutes a cookie sheet in the oven for a total of 5 1/2 hours of steady baking.”Forever Young won the contest with 42 votes, followed by A440 Music with 28 votes (warm salted caramel chocolate chip), and Great Bend Coffee took third with 17 votes (pumpkin snickerdoodle with frosting).In what has become a post-Thanksgiving tradition, more than 130 cookie judges donated at least $10 for a cookie bracelet, which allowed them to visit 11 Great Bend businesses and taste cookies before voting on their favorite one. For the first time in four years, cookie bracelets did not sell out, but record proceeds still went to the Community Food Bank of Barton County to help feed those in need during the holiday season and beyond. This year’s contest resulted in $1,485 that has been donated to the Food Bank. That’s $105 more than last year’s previous record.Businesses participating in this year’s Great Bend Cookie Contest, besides Forever Young, were Rosewood Furniture Gallery (Cookie Headquarters); Kustom Floor Designs; Buckle; Great Bend Coffee; Bling; Rosewood Bargain Barn; A440 Musical Instruments; Heart of Kansas/Ms. Pretty Pickles; The Wright Place; and Rosewood Wine Cellar.According to Great Bend Cookie Contest organizers, bragging rights for the contest is a fun part of the event, the true significance of the contest are the proceeds generated by the contest to help those within the community, who are in need.“While winning the cookie contest is important, and we congratulate Forever Young for defending its cookie title, we are so thankful to all the stores and cookie judges for participating,” said Anna Hammond, business development director for Rosewood Services. “With the inclement weather, it would have been easy for people not to participate this year, but because of everyone who did, we were able to donate a record amount from our contest to the Food Bank of Barton County.”As part of activities wrapped into Small Business Saturday, cookie contest businesses also donated prizes, which were awarded to cookie contest participants during a drawing the following Monday.&nbsp;By winning two consecutive years, Forever Young is chasing the greatness of A440 Musical Instruments, which was crowned Great Bend Cookie Champion five of the previous six years before last year. And Hazlett seems to be up for the challenge to defend her title next year.“My kids are excited about the contest,” explained Hazlett. “I’ve already started receiving recipe ideas for next year from them. Yes, we’re planning to do the contest again next year. The pressure mounts, it’s hard to keep winning; it’s also a lot of work, but we have a lot of fun doing it.”

Forever Young crowned Great Bend Cookie Champion again

Spain-based Acciona Energia caught Barton County officials a little off guard in January when company representatives announced intent to build a large-scale solar farm somewhere in the county. Most concerns revolved around the proximity to Cheyenne Bottoms and any impacts solar panels might have on wildlife. Thursday morning, the Barton County Planning Commission heard more from Acciona about the project in an open meeting at the Hoisington Activity Center. Josh Svaty, representing the company, credited the commission for its concern but said solar energy is usually nothing to worry about.

"In the pantheon of power production and types of power production, whether it be coal, natural gas, or wind, solar is, in fact, one of the most benign across the board," he said. "It really doesn't make any noise. There's not a lot of truck traffic in an out. Even to wildlife impacts, it fairly benign."

Since the project was announced in January, the planning commission heard from various wildlife advocates and groups. Even without an exact location pinned down at the time, Audobon of Kansas expressed concern about any development directly south of Cheyenne Bottoms.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7ed1e3fe-47c3-403d-8142-b68f567d232f">READ MORE: Acciona Reveals potential location of proposed solar farm</a>

"The proposed location south of Cheyenne Bottoms represents a major threat to the millions of waterbirds that visit the location, including the federally endangered whooping crane, least tern, and piping plover," said Audobon of Kansas Executive Director Jacqueline Augustine, Ph.D., in a letter. "The shimmer off solar panels can be mistaken for water by waterbirds and aquatic insects. Positioning the facility directly between Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira may further confuse migrating birds who are flying over expecting to see water in this location."

Brian Obermeyer, representing The Nature Conservancy, noted solar development within the corridor between Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge would eliminate potential foraging habitat for migrating birds. Obermeyer's letter also states incomplete data on the impacts of solar development, such as avoidance of habitat and confusing the panels for bodies of water, resulting in collisions, should not be discounted.

Several planning commissioners were dumbfounded that Acciona officials were unaware of a resource like Cheyenne Bottoms prior to announcing plans for the project. Commissioner JC Bosch asked what type of wildlife impact studies have been completed since the first meeting in January.

"When we first came to the county and made a general announcement that we had an interest in doing projects here, shortly after that there was a moratorium put on," said Adam Stratton, Acciona's director of solar development. "For us to have no pathway or conversation happening forward, we need to spend a lot of money doing studies. At that point, we were just like let's see what happens here."

Stratton said impact studies begin with federal and state guidelines and typically include impacts on natural resources, historical landmarks, and waterways among other considerations. When a resident asked about the "lake effect," in which birds may confuse shiny panels with shimmering water, Stratton said the panels are designed to absorb light, not reflect it.

"The majority of airports in the world right now actually have solar panels that are on the roof of the terminal, or somewhere in regards to the facility," he said. "That tells you, kind of from an FAA perspective, that it's approved in the U.S."

At Thursday's meeting, Acciona released more details about the location of the proposed project. After a one-mile buffer on the south edge of Cheyenne Bottoms, a four-mile-long stretch of land is included along Northeast 30 Road between Northeast 20 and 60 Avenues. Stratton said that location was selected due to its proximity to an interconnection point to the power grid located just east of Barton Community College.

The moratorium halting commercial solar development in Barton County is set to expire on Dec. 31. The Barton Board of Commissioners will vote on whether to continue the moratorium or not at its Dec. 12 meeting. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701982235819.jpeg" alt="Acciona Energy representatives spoke with the Barton County Planning Commission Thursday morning at the Hoisington Activity Center." />
 <figcaption>Acciona Energy representatives spoke with the Barton County Planning Commission Thursday morning at the Hoisington Activity Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSpain-based Acciona Energia caught Barton County officials a little off guard in January when company representatives announced intent to build a large-scale solar farm somewhere in the county. Most concerns revolved around the proximity to Cheyenne Bottoms and any impacts solar panels might have on wildlife. Thursday morning, the Barton County Planning Commission heard more from Acciona about the project in an open meeting at the Hoisington Activity Center. Josh Svaty, representing the company, credited the commission for its concern but said solar energy is usually nothing to worry about."In the pantheon of power production and types of power production, whether it be coal, natural gas, or wind, solar is, in fact, one of the most benign across the board," he said. "It really doesn't make any noise. There's not a lot of truck traffic in an out. Even to wildlife impacts, it fairly benign."Since the project was announced in January, the planning commission heard from various wildlife advocates and groups. Even without an exact location pinned down at the time, Audobon of Kansas expressed concern about any development directly south of Cheyenne Bottoms.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7ed1e3fe-47c3-403d-8142-b68f567d232f">READ MORE: Acciona Reveals potential location of proposed solar farm</a>"The proposed location south of Cheyenne Bottoms represents a major threat to the millions of waterbirds that visit the location, including the federally endangered whooping crane, least tern, and piping plover," said Audobon of Kansas Executive Director Jacqueline Augustine, Ph.D., in a letter. "The shimmer off solar panels can be mistaken for water by waterbirds and aquatic insects. Positioning the facility directly between Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira may further confuse migrating birds who are flying over expecting to see water in this location."Brian Obermeyer, representing The Nature Conservancy, noted solar development within the corridor between Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge would eliminate potential foraging habitat for migrating birds. Obermeyer's letter also states incomplete data on the impacts of solar development, such as avoidance of habitat and confusing the panels for bodies of water, resulting in collisions, should not be discounted.Several planning commissioners were dumbfounded that Acciona officials were unaware of a resource like Cheyenne Bottoms prior to announcing plans for the project. Commissioner JC Bosch asked what type of wildlife impact studies have been completed since the first meeting in January."When we first came to the county and made a general announcement that we had an interest in doing projects here, shortly after that there was a moratorium put on," said Adam Stratton, Acciona's director of solar development. "For us to have no pathway or conversation happening forward, we need to spend a lot of money doing studies. At that point, we were just like let's see what happens here."Stratton said impact studies begin with federal and state guidelines and typically include impacts on natural resources, historical landmarks, and waterways among other considerations. When a resident asked about the "lake effect," in which birds may confuse shiny panels with shimmering water, Stratton said the panels are designed to absorb light, not reflect it."The majority of airports in the world right now actually have solar panels that are on the roof of the terminal, or somewhere in regards to the facility," he said. "That tells you, kind of from an FAA perspective, that it's approved in the U.S."At Thursday's meeting, Acciona released more details about the location of the proposed project. After a one-mile buffer on the south edge of Cheyenne Bottoms, a four-mile-long stretch of land is included along Northeast 30 Road between Northeast 20 and 60 Avenues. Stratton said that location was selected due to its proximity to an interconnection point to the power grid located just east of Barton Community College.The moratorium halting commercial solar development in Barton County is set to expire on Dec. 31. The Barton Board of Commissioners will vote on whether to continue the moratorium or not at its Dec. 12 meeting.

Acciona answers questions about wildlife concerns near Cheyenne Bottoms

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/scdN3HUVJPs?si=8edODo1oeAHLRwFy" 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 President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.

🎤 Forward Ever: KIOGA President Ed Cross

Last winter and spring, Great Bend city crews installed cages that were
placed at the bottom of Veterans Lake to protect underwater vegetation that was
planted. Great Bend officials are hoping an improved habitat will enhance fish
growth and breeding, making fishing better at the lake. 

Public Lands Director
Scott Keeler said Vets Lake was restocked with fish last Monday.


"We had 475 trout delivered to Vets Lake," said Keeler. "They're ranging between 12 and 16 inches with a few larger ones. The next stocking is scheduled right after the first of the year. The final one will be at the end of February or first of March."

A battle with blue-green algae years ago and past flooding at Veterans Lake has
caused an aquatic desert for the fish population.&nbsp;The cages, built out
of PVC pipe, are intended to keep turtles and grass carp out of the vegetation.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681411075438.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast winter and spring, Great Bend city crews installed cages that were
placed at the bottom of Veterans Lake to protect underwater vegetation that was
planted. Great Bend officials are hoping an improved habitat will enhance fish
growth and breeding, making fishing better at the lake. Public Lands Director
Scott Keeler said Vets Lake was restocked with fish last Monday.
"We had 475 trout delivered to Vets Lake," said Keeler. "They're ranging between 12 and 16 inches with a few larger ones. The next stocking is scheduled right after the first of the year. The final one will be at the end of February or first of March."A battle with blue-green algae years ago and past flooding at Veterans Lake has
caused an aquatic desert for the fish population.&nbsp;The cages, built out
of PVC pipe, are intended to keep turtles and grass carp out of the vegetation.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend restocks Vets Lake with 475 trout 

In 2016, the City of Great Bend entered into an agreement with an
on-call engineering service. After the city’s engineer Rob Winiecke resigned
the previous summer, Great Bend officials were unsuccessful finding a staff
engineer to hire. The city hired Professional Engineering Consultants (PEC)
from Wichita. 

Assistant City Engineer Sreehitha Kadiyala said the city
is moving on from PEC as they started seeking bids for on-call engineers last
October.


"We had meetings and sent invites to about 10 firms," said Kadiyala. "We received four proposals. We will evaluate all the proposals we received. We're hoping to conduct interviews in the next couple of weeks."

Kadiyala said officials are hopeful to have an engineer contract for
the city council’s approval by Jan. 15, 2024.


In 2016, Great Bend administration mentioned saving a significant amount of
money with an on-call engineer by avoiding paying a high salary to a staff engineer
regardless if he or she has a project or not.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 2016, the City of Great Bend entered into an agreement with an
on-call engineering service. After the city’s engineer Rob Winiecke resigned
the previous summer, Great Bend officials were unsuccessful finding a staff
engineer to hire. The city hired Professional Engineering Consultants (PEC)
from Wichita. Assistant City Engineer Sreehitha Kadiyala said the city
is moving on from PEC as they started seeking bids for on-call engineers last
October.
"We had meetings and sent invites to about 10 firms," said Kadiyala. "We received four proposals. We will evaluate all the proposals we received. We're hoping to conduct interviews in the next couple of weeks."Kadiyala said officials are hopeful to have an engineer contract for
the city council’s approval by Jan. 15, 2024.
In 2016, Great Bend administration mentioned saving a significant amount of
money with an on-call engineer by avoiding paying a high salary to a staff engineer
regardless if he or she has a project or not.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

City of Great Bend looking for new on-call engineer

In recent years, sulfur (S) deficiency in wheat has become more common in many areas of Kansas, particularly in no-till wheat. The likely reasons for this are a reduction in sulfur additions to the crop from atmospheric deposition (there is less S in the air now) and cooler soil temperatures as a result of no-till, which slows S mineralization in the soil. Some crops in the rotation, such as soybean, can also take up significant amounts of S, resulting in an S deficit for the following wheat crop. Most of the crop's S needs will occur after spring green-up when the crop goes through stem elongation.

Historically, S deficiency was most common in high-yielding crops grown on irrigated, sandy soils that are low in organic matter and subject to leaching. However, due to the reasons discussed above, an increasing number of finer-textured soils have shown S deficiency in recent years.

Generally, S-deficient wheat is yellow and stunted and is observed in patches in the field, especially in areas with previous soil erosion or movement. The patchy S-deficient areas of the field are often found on hilltops or side slopes where erosion has occurred, and soil organic matter is reduced or where leaching is more pronounced. Wheat in areas where topsoil was removed or significant cuts were made (i.e. terraced or leveled fields) also commonly shows symptoms.

Sulfur deficiency in growing crops is often mistaken for nitrogen (N) deficiency. However, unlike N deficiency, where older leaves show firing and yellowing, with S deficiency, the pale-yellow symptoms often appear first on the younger or uppermost leaves. Wheat plants with S deficiency eventually become uniformly chlorotic (yellow leaf tissue).

Sulfur deficiencies in wheat have been showing up early in the spring, shortly after green-up, before organic S is mineralized from soil organic matter and before wheat roots can grow into the subsoil to utilize any available S (sulfate) accumulations. Deficiencies of S are often difficult to identify because the chlorosis is not always obvious. Crops lacking S also may be stunted, thin-stemmed, and spindly. In the case of wheat and other cereal grains, maturity is delayed.

If any of your fields have had a known history of S deficiency and you have not applied any S yet. Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear in the spring, farmers may want to consider a winter top-dress application of S as a preventive measure.

<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>In recent years, sulfur (S) deficiency in wheat has become more common in many areas of Kansas, particularly in no-till wheat. The likely reasons for this are a reduction in sulfur additions to the crop from atmospheric deposition (there is less S in the air now) and cooler soil temperatures as a result of no-till, which slows S mineralization in the soil. Some crops in the rotation, such as soybean, can also take up significant amounts of S, resulting in an S deficit for the following wheat crop. Most of the crop's S needs will occur after spring green-up when the crop goes through stem elongation.Historically, S deficiency was most common in high-yielding crops grown on irrigated, sandy soils that are low in organic matter and subject to leaching. However, due to the reasons discussed above, an increasing number of finer-textured soils have shown S deficiency in recent years.Generally, S-deficient wheat is yellow and stunted and is observed in patches in the field, especially in areas with previous soil erosion or movement. The patchy S-deficient areas of the field are often found on hilltops or side slopes where erosion has occurred, and soil organic matter is reduced or where leaching is more pronounced. Wheat in areas where topsoil was removed or significant cuts were made (i.e. terraced or leveled fields) also commonly shows symptoms.Sulfur deficiency in growing crops is often mistaken for nitrogen (N) deficiency. However, unlike N deficiency, where older leaves show firing and yellowing, with S deficiency, the pale-yellow symptoms often appear first on the younger or uppermost leaves. Wheat plants with S deficiency eventually become uniformly chlorotic (yellow leaf tissue).Sulfur deficiencies in wheat have been showing up early in the spring, shortly after green-up, before organic S is mineralized from soil organic matter and before wheat roots can grow into the subsoil to utilize any available S (sulfate) accumulations. Deficiencies of S are often difficult to identify because the chlorosis is not always obvious. Crops lacking S also may be stunted, thin-stemmed, and spindly. In the case of wheat and other cereal grains, maturity is delayed.If any of your fields have had a known history of S deficiency and you have not applied any S yet. Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear in the spring, farmers may want to consider a winter top-dress application of S as a preventive measure.There is a soil test for available sulfate-S in the soil profile. Soil texture, soil organic matter, the crop to be grown, and the expected yield level should all be considered when interpreting this soil test. Accurate estimates of S needs cannot be made from a surface sample alone. Since sulfate is mobile, sampling to a 24-inch depth is important. However, due to the relatively high demand for S during the rapid vegetative growth phase of wheat and relatively shallow rooting by the wheat crop at this time, the S measured in the deeper subsoil levels by the test may not be available to wheat in the early spring, especially where soils are cold. Now is a good time to collect soil samples and assess S levels as we plan for topdressing.Leaf tissue tests can be useful, particularly when determining the exact cause of yellow wheat. A representative sample can be made by collecting the newest mature leaves from 30+ plants throughout the area where deficiency symptoms are observed (“bad” areas). A similar sample from a “good” area (no deficiency symptoms) should also be collected. This will allow direct comparisons between “good” and “bad” areas.There are several S-containing fertilizer materials both dry and liquid. Supplemental resources: Sulfur in Kansas (MF 2264), http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/MF2264.pdf For estimations of required application rates of S - Soil Test Interpretation and Fertilizer Recommendations, (MF2586) http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/mf2586.pdf

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