WASHINGTON —The Internal Revenue Service reminds low- and moderate-income workers that they can save for retirement now and possibly earn a special tax credit in 2022 and years ahead.

The Retirement Savings Contributions Credit, also known as the Saver’s Credit, helps offset part of the first $2,000 workers voluntarily contribute to Individual Retirement Arrangements, 401(k) plans and similar workplace retirement programs. The credit also helps any eligible person with a disability who is the designated beneficiary of an Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account, contribute to that account. For more information about ABLE accounts, see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViOTA3In0.ye_eM2XV8FLLS1HUCp_w2Xb4Zt4aJrBvdqGsPUgaOlY/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Publication 907</a>, available on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.

The Saver’s Credit is available in addition to any other tax savings that apply.

Eligible workers still have time to make qualifying retirement contributions and get the Saver’s Credit on their 2022 tax return. People have until April 18, 2023 - the due date for filing their 2022 return - to set up a new IRA or add money to an existing IRA for 2022. Both Roth and traditional IRAs qualify.

On the other hand, those participating in workplace retirement plans must take action by the end of 2022 for contributions to count for this year. This means elective deferrals (contributions) must be made by December 31 to a:

Contributions to certain other workplace retirement plans also qualify. See the instructions to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybTg4ODAifQ.rhqkpqWxApeX-DLh9-YN6s9TPRzEm2DJabcj9Bx7EH0/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Form 8880</a>&nbsp;for details.

Employees unable to set aside money this year may want to schedule their 2023 contributions soon so their employer can begin withholding them in January.

Income limits, based on a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income and marital or filing status, apply to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3JldGlyZW1lbnQtcGxhbnMvcGxhbi1wYXJ0aWNpcGFudC1lbXBsb3llZS9yZXRpcmVtZW50LXNhdmluZ3MtY29udHJpYnV0aW9ucy1zYXZlcnMtY3JlZGl0In0.eeaBNI4-hhtZjHGHLA-P-_7-dutab8ZBwXLDlNFjHAQ/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Saver’s Credit</a>. But due to inflation, the limits will increase markedly in 2023.

As a result, the Saver’s Credit can be claimed by:

Like other tax credits, the Saver’s Credit can increase a taxpayer’s refund or reduce the tax owed. Though the maximum Saver’s Credit is $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples), the IRS cautioned that it is often much less and, due in part to the impact of other deductions and credits, may, in fact, be zero for some taxpayers.

A taxpayer’s credit amount is based on their filing status, adjusted gross income, tax liability and amount contributed to qualifying retirement programs or ABLE accounts.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS04ODgwIn0.RDt_Gre-AL_kZT-hNBRh23Lx_6gjWjTO5kUPnaqK_KA/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Form 8880</a>&nbsp;is used to claim the Saver’s Credit, and its instructions have details on figuring the credit correctly.

In tax year 2020, the most recent year for which complete figures are available, Saver’s Credits totaling more than $1.7 billion were claimed on about 9.4 million individual income tax returns. That’s an average of about $186 per eligible return.

The Saver’s Credit supplements other tax benefits available to people who set money aside for retirement. For example, most workers may deduct their contributions to a traditional IRA. Though Roth IRA contributions are not deductible, qualifying withdrawals, usually after retirement, are tax-free. Normally, contributions to 401(k) and similar workplace plans are not taxed until withdrawn.

Other special rules that apply to the Saver’s Credit include:

Any distributions from a retirement plan or ABLE account reduce the contribution amount used to figure the credit. For 2022, this rule applies to distributions received after 2019 and before the due date, including extensions, of the 2022 return. Form 8880 and its instructions have details on making this computation.

To learn more about other ways to get ready for the tax season ahead, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL3N0ZXBzLXRvLXRha2Utbm93LXRvLWdldC1hLWp1bXAtb24tbmV4dC15ZWFycy10YXhlcyJ9.wU8BNx8t29DsBJutF-ekl9mPfGRIdKjMu6KzXFopBIo/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">IRS.gov/getready</a>.

IRSWASHINGTON —The Internal Revenue Service reminds low- and moderate-income workers that they can save for retirement now and possibly earn a special tax credit in 2022 and years ahead.The Retirement Savings Contributions Credit, also known as the Saver’s Credit, helps offset part of the first $2,000 workers voluntarily contribute to Individual Retirement Arrangements, 401(k) plans and similar workplace retirement programs. The credit also helps any eligible person with a disability who is the designated beneficiary of an Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account, contribute to that account. For more information about ABLE accounts, see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViOTA3In0.ye_eM2XV8FLLS1HUCp_w2Xb4Zt4aJrBvdqGsPUgaOlY/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Publication 907</a>, available on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>.The Saver’s Credit is available in addition to any other tax savings that apply.<h2>Still time to take action</h2>Eligible workers still have time to make qualifying retirement contributions and get the Saver’s Credit on their 2022 tax return. People have until April 18, 2023 - the due date for filing their 2022 return - to set up a new IRA or add money to an existing IRA for 2022. Both Roth and traditional IRAs qualify.On the other hand, those participating in workplace retirement plans must take action by the end of 2022 for contributions to count for this year. This means elective deferrals (contributions) must be made by December 31 to a:<ul>
 <li>401(k) plan.</li><li>403(b) plan for employees of public schools and certain tax-exempt organizations.</li><li>Governmental 457 plan for state or local government employees.</li><li>Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for federal employees.</li>
 </ul>Contributions to certain other workplace retirement plans also qualify. See the instructions to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybTg4ODAifQ.rhqkpqWxApeX-DLh9-YN6s9TPRzEm2DJabcj9Bx7EH0/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Form 8880</a>&nbsp;for details.Employees unable to set aside money this year may want to schedule their 2023 contributions soon so their employer can begin withholding them in January.<h2>Who qualifies</h2>Income limits, based on a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income and marital or filing status, apply to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3JldGlyZW1lbnQtcGxhbnMvcGxhbi1wYXJ0aWNpcGFudC1lbXBsb3llZS9yZXRpcmVtZW50LXNhdmluZ3MtY29udHJpYnV0aW9ucy1zYXZlcnMtY3JlZGl0In0.eeaBNI4-hhtZjHGHLA-P-_7-dutab8ZBwXLDlNFjHAQ/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Saver’s Credit</a>. But due to inflation, the limits will increase markedly in 2023.As a result, the Saver’s Credit can be claimed by:<ul>
 <li>Married couples filing jointly with incomes up to $68,000 in 2022 or $73,000 in 2023.</li><li>Heads of household with incomes up to $51,000 in 2022 or $54,750 in 2023.</li><li>Married individuals filing separately and singles with incomes up to $34,000 in 2022 or $36,500 in 2023.</li>
 </ul>Like other tax credits, the Saver’s Credit can increase a taxpayer’s refund or reduce the tax owed. Though the maximum Saver’s Credit is $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples), the IRS cautioned that it is often much less and, due in part to the impact of other deductions and credits, may, in fact, be zero for some taxpayers.A taxpayer’s credit amount is based on their filing status, adjusted gross income, tax liability and amount contributed to qualifying retirement programs or ABLE accounts.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS04ODgwIn0.RDt_Gre-AL_kZT-hNBRh23Lx_6gjWjTO5kUPnaqK_KA/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">Form 8880</a>&nbsp;is used to claim the Saver’s Credit, and its instructions have details on figuring the credit correctly.In tax year 2020, the most recent year for which complete figures are available, Saver’s Credits totaling more than $1.7 billion were claimed on about 9.4 million individual income tax returns. That’s an average of about $186 per eligible return.The Saver’s Credit supplements other tax benefits available to people who set money aside for retirement. For example, most workers may deduct their contributions to a traditional IRA. Though Roth IRA contributions are not deductible, qualifying withdrawals, usually after retirement, are tax-free. Normally, contributions to 401(k) and similar workplace plans are not taxed until withdrawn.<h2>Some restrictions apply</h2>Other special rules that apply to the Saver’s Credit include:<ul>
 <li>Eligible taxpayers must be at least 18 years of age.</li><li>Anyone claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return cannot take the credit.</li><li>A student cannot take the credit. A person enrolled as a full-time student during any part of five calendar months during the year is considered a student.</li>
 </ul>Any distributions from a retirement plan or ABLE account reduce the contribution amount used to figure the credit. For 2022, this rule applies to distributions received after 2019 and before the due date, including extensions, of the 2022 return. Form 8880 and its instructions have details on making this computation.To learn more about other ways to get ready for the tax season ahead, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjEuNjg2MzYyMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL3N0ZXBzLXRvLXRha2Utbm93LXRvLWdldC1hLWp1bXAtb24tbmV4dC15ZWFycy10YXhlcyJ9.wU8BNx8t29DsBJutF-ekl9mPfGRIdKjMu6KzXFopBIo/s/1558083055/br/151064136451-l" target="_blank">IRS.gov/getready</a>.

IRS: Save for retirement now, get a tax credit later

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland recently announced the award recipients for the new Strategic Economic Expansion and Development grant program. In total, 61 recipients will receive nearly $2.7 million to invest in small communities across the state. &nbsp;

“SEED grants provide funding for quality-of-life enhancements in some of our state’s smallest communities,” Toland said. “These investments will set the stage for future economic development success and prosperity across the state.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Awardees are located in communities with a population of 5,000 or less, as required by (KS Stat 9-2324 [2021]). They are required to provide a minimum 10-percent match as well as complete the projects within 12 months. Projects must be focused on economic development and revitalization efforts through one of the following quality-of-life categories:&nbsp;

Funding for the SEED program, which is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, is provided through the Technology Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institutions Development and Expansion Fund. The TEFFI Act was enacted in 2021 through bipartisan legislation to promote economic development throughout the state.&nbsp;

The 2022 SEED grant recipients in northwest Kansas include:

•&nbsp;Cheyenne Community Development Corporation,&nbsp;Community Vibrancy, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;Gove County Economic Development,&nbsp;Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, $47,289 •&nbsp;Logan County Community Foundation,&nbsp;Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library, $28,701 •&nbsp;Ness City Chamber of Commerce,&nbsp;Food Retail, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Osborne Economic Development, Childcare, Food Retail, Library, $46,712&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Rozel Park Committee,&nbsp;Community Vibrancy, $49,125 •&nbsp;Phillipsburg Child Care Center, Childcare, $42,408 •&nbsp;Atwood Public Library, Library, $25,054&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Rush County Economic Development, Food Retail, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Bunker Hill Lions Club, Community Vibrancy, $34,388&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Sheridan County, Childcare, Library, Senior Programming, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; • Sherman County Community Development Corporation, Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Lebanon, Food Retail, $49,125 •&nbsp;WaKeeney Travel &amp; Tourism, Community Vibrancy, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Wallace, Community Vibrancy, $32,397

Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland recently announced the award recipients for the new Strategic Economic Expansion and Development grant program. In total, 61 recipients will receive nearly $2.7 million to invest in small communities across the state. &nbsp;“SEED grants provide funding for quality-of-life enhancements in some of our state’s smallest communities,” Toland said. “These investments will set the stage for future economic development success and prosperity across the state.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Awardees are located in communities with a population of 5,000 or less, as required by (KS Stat 9-2324 [2021]). They are required to provide a minimum 10-percent match as well as complete the projects within 12 months. Projects must be focused on economic development and revitalization efforts through one of the following quality-of-life categories:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Childcare and senior programming – projects that support or enhance these services, such as building improvements, educational materials, supplies and equipment&nbsp;</li><li>Community vibrancy – projects that refresh, re-energize and unlock the attractiveness of rural communities, such as art installations, murals and signage&nbsp;</li><li>Food retail – projects that support access to food retail establishments, including development, renovation and/or expansion&nbsp;</li><li>Libraries – projects that support providing free and open access to a broad range of materials and services, including reading material, technology, furniture and building improvements&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Funding for the SEED program, which is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, is provided through the Technology Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institutions Development and Expansion Fund. The TEFFI Act was enacted in 2021 through bipartisan legislation to promote economic development throughout the state.&nbsp;The 2022 SEED grant recipients in northwest Kansas include:•&nbsp;Cheyenne Community Development Corporation,&nbsp;Community Vibrancy, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;Gove County Economic Development,&nbsp;Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, $47,289 •&nbsp;Logan County Community Foundation,&nbsp;Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library, $28,701 •&nbsp;Ness City Chamber of Commerce,&nbsp;Food Retail, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Osborne Economic Development, Childcare, Food Retail, Library, $46,712&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Rozel Park Committee,&nbsp;Community Vibrancy, $49,125 •&nbsp;Phillipsburg Child Care Center, Childcare, $42,408 •&nbsp;Atwood Public Library, Library, $25,054&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Rush County Economic Development, Food Retail, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Bunker Hill Lions Club, Community Vibrancy, $34,388&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;Sheridan County, Childcare, Library, Senior Programming, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; • Sherman County Community Development Corporation, Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library, $49,125&nbsp;&nbsp; •&nbsp;City of Lebanon, Food Retail, $49,125 •&nbsp;WaKeeney Travel &amp; Tourism, Community Vibrancy, $49,125&nbsp; •&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Wallace, Community Vibrancy, $32,397

NW Kan. organizations receive economic development funding

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671831578823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!

Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WhDIRNs40_E" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576701305695.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Warm and cozy with the Hays Post virtual fireplace!

K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — “Ruralpreneurs” in business, tourism, technology and agriculture along with community volunteers are among those to be honored by K-State’s Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development as Leaders of the Year for 2022.&nbsp;

This year’s award categories and winners are:&nbsp;

The winners will be honored through a hybrid Zoom/in-person awards presentation on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at the K-State Student Union in Manhattan.&nbsp;

“Congratulations to these individuals and organizations for their creativity and commitment to rural communities,” said Shawna Moyer, chair of the Board of Directors of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development.&nbsp;

Roxie Yonkey serves as her organization’s CEO – in this case, Chief Exploration Officer. After designing travel guides and promoting tourism from her home in Goodland, she became a travel writer and blogger. Roxie has published the book “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.” For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">roxieontheroad.com</a>.&nbsp;

Cassidy Cage and Halle Schindler&nbsp;

When sorority sisters and roommates Cassidy Cage and Halle Schindler were visiting the Schindler family farm near Paola, they talked about a project they could do together. That led to the creation of C&amp;H Designs, a startup business using a Cricut device to create customizable vinyl designs for shirts and other items. Their products have now been marketed across Kansas and beyond. For more information, search for C&amp;H Designs on Instagram.&nbsp;

Daniel Friesen was a tech-savvy kid in Buhler who started a computer repair business called IdeaTek while in high school. He went on to study information systems at Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State before pursuing his business full-time in Buhler. IdeaTek is now an Internet service provider with an emphasis on fiber optics. The company employs more than 120 people from Strong City to Liberal. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ideatek.com/">www.IdeaTek.com</a>.&nbsp;

Danny Scott was a banker in Caney who was concerned about the direction of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;The grocery store had closed and downtown businesses were boarded up. Danny and his wife Norma joined with others and the local county extension agent to form the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation which joined the Kansas PRIDE program.&nbsp;

Now a municipal-owned grocery store has opened, new businesses have moved downtown, and positive momentum is occurring. For more information, search for Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation on Facebook.&nbsp;

Steve Radley, CEO of NetWork Kansas, wanted to create a way to encourage cross-sector collaboration, resource development and implementation for bold economic and community development improvements across Kansas. With the assistance of NetWork Kansas’ Strategic Inclusive Communications Director and marketing professional, Christina Long, a planning team was assembled and the NetWorked Partnership for Community Investment was created.&nbsp;

NetWorked expanded from statewide virtual convenings to a statewide in-person conference called NetWorked for Change, featuring resources for rural and urban communities with leading support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Kansas Health Foundation. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkedforchange.com/">www.networkedforchange.com</a>.&nbsp;

Landon Oldham founded Heartland Soil Services in Cunningham when he identified a need for more data to assist farmers with precision agriculture. Today, Heartland Soil Services&nbsp;specializes in soil sampling, yield mapping, imagery, irrigation management tools, variable rate seeding and fertilizer prescriptions, and end-of-season data analysis. Such data helps&nbsp;farmers apply their inputs in a more efficient, effective and environmentally-friendly way. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandsoilservices.com/">www.heartlandsoilservices.com</a>.&nbsp;

The 2022 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year winners were selected by entrepreneurship students in K-State’s College of Business and by agricultural communications students in K-State’s College of Agriculture. Each year the Huck Boyd Institute selects its leaders of the year from among those featured previously on its weekly Kansas Profile radio program and column.&nbsp;

Kansas Profile is distributed by the K-State Radio Network and K-State Research and Extension News Media Services to radio stations and newspapers statewide.&nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN — “Ruralpreneurs” in business, tourism, technology and agriculture along with community volunteers are among those to be honored by K-State’s Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development as Leaders of the Year for 2022.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631206837973.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This year’s award categories and winners are:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Entrepreneurship --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2021/05/kansas-profile-ch-designs.html">Cassidy Cage and Halle Schindler, C&amp;H Designs, Manhattan/Paola</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Technology --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2021/08/kansas-profile-daniel-friesen-ideatek.html">Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek, Buhler</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Creative Arts --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2021/11/kansas-profile-roxie-yonkey.html">Roxie Yonkey, author of "100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die", Goodland</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Community Service --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2021/09/kansas-profile-danny-scott-caney-community-betterment.html">Danny Scott, Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation</a>/PRIDE, Caney.&nbsp;</li><li>Entrepreneurial Development -- Christina Long, Steve Radley – NetWorked for Change, Wichita.&nbsp;</li><li>Agriculture -- Landon Oldham, Heartland Soil Services, Cunningham.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637768594573.png" alt="Yonkey" />
 <figcaption>Yonkey</figcaption>
 </figure>The winners will be honored through a hybrid Zoom/in-person awards presentation on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at the K-State Student Union in Manhattan.&nbsp;“Congratulations to these individuals and organizations for their creativity and commitment to rural communities,” said Shawna Moyer, chair of the Board of Directors of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development.&nbsp;Roxie Yonkey&nbsp;Roxie Yonkey serves as her organization’s CEO – in this case, Chief Exploration Officer. After designing travel guides and promoting tourism from her home in Goodland, she became a travel writer and blogger. Roxie has published the book “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.” For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">roxieontheroad.com</a>.&nbsp;Cassidy Cage and Halle Schindler&nbsp;When sorority sisters and roommates Cassidy Cage and Halle Schindler were visiting the Schindler family farm near Paola, they talked about a project they could do together. That led to the creation of C&amp;H Designs, a startup business using a Cricut device to create customizable vinyl designs for shirts and other items. Their products have now been marketed across Kansas and beyond. For more information, search for C&amp;H Designs on Instagram.&nbsp;Daniel Friesen&nbsp;Daniel Friesen was a tech-savvy kid in Buhler who started a computer repair business called IdeaTek while in high school. He went on to study information systems at Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State before pursuing his business full-time in Buhler. IdeaTek is now an Internet service provider with an emphasis on fiber optics. The company employs more than 120 people from Strong City to Liberal. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ideatek.com/">www.IdeaTek.com</a>.&nbsp;Danny Scott&nbsp;Danny Scott was a banker in Caney who was concerned about the direction of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;The grocery store had closed and downtown businesses were boarded up. Danny and his wife Norma joined with others and the local county extension agent to form the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation which joined the Kansas PRIDE program.&nbsp;Now a municipal-owned grocery store has opened, new businesses have moved downtown, and positive momentum is occurring. For more information, search for Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation on Facebook.&nbsp;Steve Radley&nbsp;Steve Radley, CEO of NetWork Kansas, wanted to create a way to encourage cross-sector collaboration, resource development and implementation for bold economic and community development improvements across Kansas. With the assistance of NetWork Kansas’ Strategic Inclusive Communications Director and marketing professional, Christina Long, a planning team was assembled and the NetWorked Partnership for Community Investment was created.&nbsp;NetWorked expanded from statewide virtual convenings to a statewide in-person conference called NetWorked for Change, featuring resources for rural and urban communities with leading support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Kansas Health Foundation. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkedforchange.com/">www.networkedforchange.com</a>.&nbsp;Landon Oldham&nbsp;Landon Oldham founded Heartland Soil Services in Cunningham when he identified a need for more data to assist farmers with precision agriculture. Today, Heartland Soil Services&nbsp;specializes in soil sampling, yield mapping, imagery, irrigation management tools, variable rate seeding and fertilizer prescriptions, and end-of-season data analysis. Such data helps&nbsp;farmers apply their inputs in a more efficient, effective and environmentally-friendly way. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandsoilservices.com/">www.heartlandsoilservices.com</a>.&nbsp;The 2022 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year winners were selected by entrepreneurship students in K-State’s College of Business and by agricultural communications students in K-State’s College of Agriculture. Each year the Huck Boyd Institute selects its leaders of the year from among those featured previously on its weekly Kansas Profile radio program and column.&nbsp;Kansas Profile is distributed by the K-State Radio Network and K-State Research and Extension News Media Services to radio stations and newspapers statewide.&nbsp;

Northwest Kansas author honored by Huck Boyd Institute

In 1992, I completed my Master’s Degree research, focusing on the 
History of Ellis Schools from 1873 to 1966. Due to time limitations, the
 end result isn’t comprehensive; however, I learned much about Ellis. 
Many folks shared resources, including Maxine Bradbury with her treasure
 trove of local history, Ellis Public Library, and USD 388’s school 
board minutes. I share these stories in hopes others add to them. In 
addition, I encourage researchers in other communities to gather 
resources that add details to our regional story. Who knows when one bit
 of information listen historians connect important dots.

Prior to
 1867, Ellis and the surrounding area provided range and forage for huge
 buffalo herds that followed seasonal migration patterns. The Saline, 
Smoky Hill, Big Creek, and other drainages watered these beasts and 
native tribes following them to harvest what they needed for survival 
and trade. You could compare this region to a modern-day Box Store 
offering food, shelter, clothing, tools, weapons, and other necessities 
to those who called it home. Clearly, public schools played no role in 
this lifestyle.

Following the Civil War, adventurers and 
individuals unmoored by national struggles sought western lands where 
they could realize their dreams. Inspired by this westward movement, 
entrepreneurs built railroads to link markets to buyers of agricultural 
products. These businessmen also acquired blocks of land they used to 
motivate settlement. By 1867, the Union Pacific Railroad established a 
water station in or near what is now Ellis.

Circa 1928 or 51 years
 after that resource appeared, resident Jenny Martin wrote The Early 
History of Ellis Kansas, which recorded that a family with children 
settled in the community in 1870, three short years after the railroad 
established that water station. Seeing a need and valuing education, 
Mrs. Dan Moore held a short two term school in her home in 1870 and 
1871.

Mrs. Moore’s initiative paid off and the community banded 
together to build a small wooden school house on the north side of the 
UPPR tracks. Miss Fanny Hemminger taught that first year. According to 
pioneer Jessie Ormerod, an old red stove stood in a corner near the 
teacher’s desk. She mentioned the children huddled around it in cold 
weather.

She also recalled a water bucket located on a bench in 
the room. Without exact detail, I assume the teacher added fuel to the 
stove and filled the bucket each morning. Jessie’s recollection stated 
the children took frequent drinks from the dipper in the bucket and left
 a puddle of water constantly standing on the floor. Mrs. Ormerod added 
that since there was no janitor, the teacher appointed two girls to 
sweep the building. She found it ironic that the assigned girls 
considered this task an honor.

Jessie also noted that the students
 wrote their lessons on slates and that girls kept little bottles of 
colored water and white rags to clean their slates. In contrast, she 
shared that boys used their coat sleeves to wipe their slates.

Please
 check boxes and trunks in attics and sheds; your family may have saved 
letters, diaries, or record books that add details to local history, 
snippets that offer a peek at our forebearers’ dreams for their future.

Karen Madorin&nbsp; is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and 
sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

By KAREN MADORINIn 1992, I completed my Master’s Degree research, focusing on the 
History of Ellis Schools from 1873 to 1966. Due to time limitations, the
 end result isn’t comprehensive; however, I learned much about Ellis. 
Many folks shared resources, including Maxine Bradbury with her treasure
 trove of local history, Ellis Public Library, and USD 388’s school 
board minutes. I share these stories in hopes others add to them. In 
addition, I encourage researchers in other communities to gather 
resources that add details to our regional story. Who knows when one bit
 of information listen historians connect important dots.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Prior to
 1867, Ellis and the surrounding area provided range and forage for huge
 buffalo herds that followed seasonal migration patterns. The Saline, 
Smoky Hill, Big Creek, and other drainages watered these beasts and 
native tribes following them to harvest what they needed for survival 
and trade. You could compare this region to a modern-day Box Store 
offering food, shelter, clothing, tools, weapons, and other necessities 
to those who called it home. Clearly, public schools played no role in 
this lifestyle.Following the Civil War, adventurers and 
individuals unmoored by national struggles sought western lands where 
they could realize their dreams. Inspired by this westward movement, 
entrepreneurs built railroads to link markets to buyers of agricultural 
products. These businessmen also acquired blocks of land they used to 
motivate settlement. By 1867, the Union Pacific Railroad established a 
water station in or near what is now Ellis.Circa 1928 or 51 years
 after that resource appeared, resident Jenny Martin wrote The Early 
History of Ellis Kansas, which recorded that a family with children 
settled in the community in 1870, three short years after the railroad 
established that water station. Seeing a need and valuing education, 
Mrs. Dan Moore held a short two term school in her home in 1870 and 
1871.Mrs. Moore’s initiative paid off and the community banded 
together to build a small wooden school house on the north side of the 
UPPR tracks. Miss Fanny Hemminger taught that first year. According to 
pioneer Jessie Ormerod, an old red stove stood in a corner near the 
teacher’s desk. She mentioned the children huddled around it in cold 
weather.She also recalled a water bucket located on a bench in 
the room. Without exact detail, I assume the teacher added fuel to the 
stove and filled the bucket each morning. Jessie’s recollection stated 
the children took frequent drinks from the dipper in the bucket and left
 a puddle of water constantly standing on the floor. Mrs. Ormerod added 
that since there was no janitor, the teacher appointed two girls to 
sweep the building. She found it ironic that the assigned girls 
considered this task an honor.Jessie also noted that the students
 wrote their lessons on slates and that girls kept little bottles of 
colored water and white rags to clean their slates. In contrast, she 
shared that boys used their coat sleeves to wipe their slates.Please
 check boxes and trunks in attics and sheds; your family may have saved 
letters, diaries, or record books that add details to local history, 
snippets that offer a peek at our forebearers’ dreams for their future.Karen Madorin&nbsp; is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and 
sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: The beginning of Ellis schools

Traditionally during the holidays, thoughtful moments of gratitude, goodwill and peace push away the frenzy of gift giving and parties with fancy food.&nbsp; We take stock of the past and look toward the coming year.

Recent months have seen much worried talk about the fragility of Kansas public schools.&nbsp;

Critics point to deep, structural weaknesses that emerge from lack of accountability.

Because we live in a democratic society, public school policy is always an open discussion and not value neutral.&nbsp; Our schools exist amid dissent about their effectiveness and always have.

Continuously attacked but surprisingly resilient, Kansas schools remain strong due to unfaltering dedication to their core mission—to grow students’ knowledge and prepare them for citizenship.

The beginning of a new year seems the right time to reflect on the power of public education for positive change and how the past foreshadows a crucial challenge to Kansas schools today.

As most Kansans know, in 1951, Oliver Brown filed suit against the Topeka Board of Education because his daughter, Linda Brown, was denied admission to Topeka’s white-only schools. The resulting U.S. Supreme Court decision ruled separate was not equal education and ended racial segregation in schools across the nation.

Despite tenacious resistance to desegregation and enrollment flight to Kansas suburbs, the impact of the Brown v. Board of Education eventually opened all public places. Today about 90 percent of students in Kansas attend racially integrated public schools and graduation rates are up since the 1950s when they hovered around 50 percent nationally.

In 2019, U. S. Department of Education statistics show graduation rates for black students nationally at 79.6 and in Kansas at 80.0 percent.&nbsp; The graduation rate for all students in Kansas was 87.23 percent.

According to the last census, the Kansas population is 86 percent white. Yet, from Dodge City to Wichita to Johnson County, Kansas is becoming an increasingly multi-cultural and multi-racial society. Kansas schools now face a different struggle, one that deals less with attendance than the guarantee of equal educational opportunities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lessons learned from the Brown decision show that positive social change is possible, but the lessons appear to have little influence on the disrespectful and disruptive Kansas youth who recently mocked their peers of another race at a sports event or those who brought guns to school or who now exchange insults in classrooms and talk-back to teachers.

Though a small minority, the students who act out are visible symptoms of the deeper, largely unspoken but hard to eradicate, racism and disrespect of others that lingers in our society.&nbsp; Racism and lack of acceptance toward others’ culture, religion, disability, age or gender can be found throughout Kansas and the nation.

Teachers and administrators are striving not to indoctrinate but provide inclusiveness for students.&nbsp; Schools work to bring us together through creating sound school-wide safety measures, communicating the worth of all individuals and teaching history that shows both the positive and negative aspects of our shared past.

Public education, arguably, is the most unifying and important of all American institutions.&nbsp; In a country built on individual rights, free public education is the single nationwide institution that offers all children 12-plus years of schooling to enhance their personal lives and prepare them to be responsible citizens.

Public schools are the dominant form of education for Kansas students—a powerful influence on the future of the state. &nbsp;

It’s time to appreciate the gift of public education.&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Traditionally during the holidays, thoughtful moments of gratitude, goodwill and peace push away the frenzy of gift giving and parties with fancy food.&nbsp; We take stock of the past and look toward the coming year.Recent months have seen much worried talk about the fragility of Kansas public schools.&nbsp;Critics point to deep, structural weaknesses that emerge from lack of accountability.Because we live in a democratic society, public school policy is always an open discussion and not value neutral.&nbsp; Our schools exist amid dissent about their effectiveness and always have.Continuously attacked but surprisingly resilient, Kansas schools remain strong due to unfaltering dedication to their core mission—to grow students’ knowledge and prepare them for citizenship.The beginning of a new year seems the right time to reflect on the power of public education for positive change and how the past foreshadows a crucial challenge to Kansas schools today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As most Kansans know, in 1951, Oliver Brown filed suit against the Topeka Board of Education because his daughter, Linda Brown, was denied admission to Topeka’s white-only schools. The resulting U.S. Supreme Court decision ruled separate was not equal education and ended racial segregation in schools across the nation.Despite tenacious resistance to desegregation and enrollment flight to Kansas suburbs, the impact of the Brown v. Board of Education eventually opened all public places. Today about 90 percent of students in Kansas attend racially integrated public schools and graduation rates are up since the 1950s when they hovered around 50 percent nationally.In 2019, U. S. Department of Education statistics show graduation rates for black students nationally at 79.6 and in Kansas at 80.0 percent.&nbsp; The graduation rate for all students in Kansas was 87.23 percent.According to the last census, the Kansas population is 86 percent white. Yet, from Dodge City to Wichita to Johnson County, Kansas is becoming an increasingly multi-cultural and multi-racial society. Kansas schools now face a different struggle, one that deals less with attendance than the guarantee of equal educational opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lessons learned from the Brown decision show that positive social change is possible, but the lessons appear to have little influence on the disrespectful and disruptive Kansas youth who recently mocked their peers of another race at a sports event or those who brought guns to school or who now exchange insults in classrooms and talk-back to teachers.Though a small minority, the students who act out are visible symptoms of the deeper, largely unspoken but hard to eradicate, racism and disrespect of others that lingers in our society.&nbsp; Racism and lack of acceptance toward others’ culture, religion, disability, age or gender can be found throughout Kansas and the nation.Teachers and administrators are striving not to indoctrinate but provide inclusiveness for students.&nbsp; Schools work to bring us together through creating sound school-wide safety measures, communicating the worth of all individuals and teaching history that shows both the positive and negative aspects of our shared past.Public education, arguably, is the most unifying and important of all American institutions.&nbsp; In a country built on individual rights, free public education is the single nationwide institution that offers all children 12-plus years of schooling to enhance their personal lives and prepare them to be responsible citizens.Public schools are the dominant form of education for Kansas students—a powerful influence on the future of the state. &nbsp;It’s time to appreciate the gift of public education.&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The value of strong public schools

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671831547168.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<div> <script src="https://embed-953402.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="638e6825-0bc9-4e1f-b5e5-c0608620a634" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

🏈 WINNERS EVERY WEEK! CERVs Football Bowl Matchup

ELLIS COUNTY RESIDENTS: Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers in Ellis County to conserve natural gas now through 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 25. This comes at the request of an interstate pipeline company that supplies natural gas to the area.

Customers are asked to lower thermostats 1-2 degrees and turn off gas fireplaces unless absolutely necessary.

Winter Storm Elliott's record gas flows have put pressure on natural gas supplies nationwide. On Saturday, temperatures will increase slightly, but the wind is forecast to drop off, requiring more electricity to be generated from natural gas.

Midwest Energy thanks you for your assistance!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671905020813.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY RESIDENTS: Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers in Ellis County to conserve natural gas now through 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 25. This comes at the request of an interstate pipeline company that supplies natural gas to the area.Customers are asked to lower thermostats 1-2 degrees and turn off gas fireplaces unless absolutely necessary.Winter Storm Elliott's record gas flows have put pressure on natural gas supplies nationwide. On Saturday, temperatures will increase slightly, but the wind is forecast to drop off, requiring more electricity to be generated from natural gas.Midwest Energy thanks you for your assistance!

Midwest Energy asks customers to conserve natural gas

By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com/">High Plains Journal</a>

Fields Forward,&nbsp;a project of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation, reached its $4 million campaign goal&nbsp;to research a sustainable&nbsp;wheat future and&nbsp;hosted&nbsp;a celebration thanking&nbsp;donors on Dec. 15.

Tammy McClellan, Plainville,&nbsp;manager of donor relations for the&nbsp;fund drive, said the campaign paralleled what her husband, Mike, had gone through with the challenges of events&nbsp;over&nbsp;which there is no control. When the $4 million campaign was to begin in March 2020,&nbsp;the country was beginning to shut&nbsp;down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. That meant a slow campaign start but supporters stayed optimistic.

Mike’s father, the late Bob McClellan, believed strongly in the importance of the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center because the research would improve the quality and yield that growers needed so they could earn more money and improve profitability.

She encouraged those in attendance to think about the future as they go about their everyday lives.

“What will your&nbsp;legacy look like in this world?” she said.

Ron Suppes, a Dighton wheat grower,&nbsp;recognized&nbsp;the successful campaign&nbsp;by&nbsp;showing&nbsp;a light bulb&nbsp;filled with wheat kernels. He did that as a way to show people&nbsp;the importance of shining a light on the future. Suppes, the chairman of the Wheat&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;Research Foundation, continues to be impressed when he sees the accomplishments of visionaries who believed in supporting and growing the wheat industry.

“This includes all those who dreamed before us but who are no longer here with us,” he said.

The legacy of wheat growers is they have been willing to keep investing in sustainable and regenerative practices,&nbsp;and wheat has proven to be a champion for doing both and being a profitable crop for farmers, he said.

He also encouraged growers to take time from busy schedules to tour the innovation center and to continue to support the mission of research.

Guest speaker&nbsp;Gene Taylor, director of athletics at Kansas State University, talked about the success of the Big 12 champion football team and introduced several players&nbsp;who had agricultural backgrounds. Taylor also is a fan of wheat research and what it means to&nbsp;feeding&nbsp;the world.

Taylor has personally visited the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center and the International Grains Program since he arrived in Manhattan in April 2017. Taylor was the athletic director at North Dakota State University before being hired by K-State. While at NDSU, he had several friends in the agronomy program&nbsp;who&nbsp;had spoken&nbsp;highly of K-State’s research and had encouraged him to see the innovation center and the IGP.

He said the work by the industry is also the result of a committed team of researchers, support staff, donors and farmers. He likened it to the success of a football team and other successful sports programs that are looking for student-athletes who are willing to work hard and put their team above personal aspirations.

Taylor said K-State football coach Chris Klieman stresses a culture of a player-led team as the best way to achieve success. Taylor said the mindset can apply other vocations including wheat production.

“There is big intersection among academics, athletics and agriculture,” he said.

The work ethic of students who grew up with an agricultural background is well&nbsp;known at K-State and similar universities,&nbsp;and those students help set the tone about the importance of hard work and putting a team first.

“All of our coaches are looking for right people to be the right fit in the locker room,” Taylor said.

The event was an opportunity to showcase the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan, a 48,000-square-foot facility that was built for $15 million in 2012. A video about the role of research and genetics in feeding the world was shown in the International Grains Program conference center. Event-goers could go on a tour of the innovation center.

Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations at Kansas Wheat, said it was appropriate the campaign completion came on the 10th anniversary of the wheat innovation center—a commitment by farmers and growers to improve the crop in terms of yield and quality for bakers and millers. The center houses 10,000 strains of&nbsp;ancient&nbsp;wheat&nbsp;grasses in the Wheat Genetics Resource Center.&nbsp;It&nbsp;is the second largest depository in the world only behind the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, also known as CIMMYT, in Mexico, which was established by the late agronomist and researcher Norman Borlaug.

Gary Millershaski, chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said the working relationship among the partners, including K-State<a></a>, private and public institutions has few peers in terms of innovation that helps farmers. As he gave an invocation he asked people to pray for rain.

He&nbsp;then&nbsp;thanked the International Grains Program for its innovation and partnership.

“All of this was built by farmers through the checkoff,” Millershaski said as he looked upon the crowd that included grain producers, researchers, K-State faculty and donors.

Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat, said the innovation center was the result of growers, past and present, who had a “think big” mentality that will carry the wheat industry into the future. In the past 10 years the center has had over 10,000 visitors. He also thanked the public and private partnerships&nbsp;and leadership of Kansas Wheat Commissioners and to producers who are committed to improving yield and quality.

Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or dbergmeier@hpj.com. Republished with permission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671737663621.jpeg" alt="Tammy McClellan, Plainville, manager of donor relations for the successful $4 million fundraiser “Fields Forward” for the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation, thanked donors for their support. (Journal photo by Dave Bergmeier.)" />
 <figcaption>Tammy McClellan, Plainville, manager of donor relations for the successful $4 million fundraiser “Fields Forward” for the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation, thanked donors for their support. (Journal photo by Dave Bergmeier.)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com/">High Plains Journal</a>Fields Forward,&nbsp;a project of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation, reached its $4 million campaign goal&nbsp;to research a sustainable&nbsp;wheat future and&nbsp;hosted&nbsp;a celebration thanking&nbsp;donors on Dec. 15.Tammy McClellan, Plainville,&nbsp;manager of donor relations for the&nbsp;fund drive, said the campaign paralleled what her husband, Mike, had gone through with the challenges of events&nbsp;over&nbsp;which there is no control. When the $4 million campaign was to begin in March 2020,&nbsp;the country was beginning to shut&nbsp;down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. That meant a slow campaign start but supporters stayed optimistic.Mike’s father, the late Bob McClellan, believed strongly in the importance of the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center because the research would improve the quality and yield that growers needed so they could earn more money and improve profitability.She encouraged those in attendance to think about the future as they go about their everyday lives.“What will your&nbsp;legacy look like in this world?” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671737697902.jpeg" alt="Ron Suppes, Dighton, is chairman of the Wheat commission Research Foundation, praised visionaries who believed in supporting and growing the wheat industry. (Journal photo by Dave Bergmeier.)" />
 <figcaption>Ron Suppes, Dighton, is chairman of the Wheat commission Research Foundation, praised visionaries who believed in supporting and growing the wheat industry. (Journal photo by Dave Bergmeier.)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ron Suppes, a Dighton wheat grower,&nbsp;recognized&nbsp;the successful campaign&nbsp;by&nbsp;showing&nbsp;a light bulb&nbsp;filled with wheat kernels. He did that as a way to show people&nbsp;the importance of shining a light on the future. Suppes, the chairman of the Wheat&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;Research Foundation, continues to be impressed when he sees the accomplishments of visionaries who believed in supporting and growing the wheat industry.“This includes all those who dreamed before us but who are no longer here with us,” he said.The legacy of wheat growers is they have been willing to keep investing in sustainable and regenerative practices,&nbsp;and wheat has proven to be a champion for doing both and being a profitable crop for farmers, he said.He also encouraged growers to take time from busy schedules to tour the innovation center and to continue to support the mission of research.Guest speaker&nbsp;Gene Taylor, director of athletics at Kansas State University, talked about the success of the Big 12 champion football team and introduced several players&nbsp;who had agricultural backgrounds. Taylor also is a fan of wheat research and what it means to&nbsp;feeding&nbsp;the world.Taylor has personally visited the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center and the International Grains Program since he arrived in Manhattan in April 2017. Taylor was the athletic director at North Dakota State University before being hired by K-State. While at NDSU, he had several friends in the agronomy program&nbsp;who&nbsp;had spoken&nbsp;highly of K-State’s research and had encouraged him to see the innovation center and the IGP.He said the work by the industry is also the result of a committed team of researchers, support staff, donors and farmers. He likened it to the success of a football team and other successful sports programs that are looking for student-athletes who are willing to work hard and put their team above personal aspirations.Taylor said K-State football coach Chris Klieman stresses a culture of a player-led team as the best way to achieve success. Taylor said the mindset can apply other vocations including wheat production.“There is big intersection among academics, athletics and agriculture,” he said.The work ethic of students who grew up with an agricultural background is well&nbsp;known at K-State and similar universities,&nbsp;and those students help set the tone about the importance of hard work and putting a team first.“All of our coaches are looking for right people to be the right fit in the locker room,” Taylor said.The event was an opportunity to showcase the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan, a 48,000-square-foot facility that was built for $15 million in 2012. A video about the role of research and genetics in feeding the world was shown in the International Grains Program conference center. Event-goers could go on a tour of the innovation center.Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations at Kansas Wheat, said it was appropriate the campaign completion came on the 10th anniversary of the wheat innovation center—a commitment by farmers and growers to improve the crop in terms of yield and quality for bakers and millers. The center houses 10,000 strains of&nbsp;ancient&nbsp;wheat&nbsp;grasses in the Wheat Genetics Resource Center.&nbsp;It&nbsp;is the second largest depository in the world only behind the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, also known as CIMMYT, in Mexico, which was established by the late agronomist and researcher Norman Borlaug.Gary Millershaski, chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said the working relationship among the partners, including K-State<a></a>, private and public institutions has few peers in terms of innovation that helps farmers. As he gave an invocation he asked people to pray for rain.He&nbsp;then&nbsp;thanked the International Grains Program for its innovation and partnership.“All of this was built by farmers through the checkoff,” Millershaski said as he looked upon the crowd that included grain producers, researchers, K-State faculty and donors.Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat, said the innovation center was the result of growers, past and present, who had a “think big” mentality that will carry the wheat industry into the future. In the past 10 years the center has had over 10,000 visitors. He also thanked the public and private partnerships&nbsp;and leadership of Kansas Wheat Commissioners and to producers who are committed to improving yield and quality.Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or dbergmeier@hpj.com. Republished with permission.

Wheat foundation celebrates successful $4M fundraiser

With just days left in 2022, the Heartland Community
Foundation reported this week grant awards this year total more than any
previous year.

“We were founded in 2007, and when we
look at our total numbers for the year, this was our most amount granted year,”
said executive director Sarah Meitner. “We granted $429,772 in our fiscal year
2022, which is an astounding number.”

Those grant awards were distributed across their three-county
service area, including Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties and included various
projects.

“It was to 67 organizations for 129 projects,” Meitner said,
noting some organizations, like USD 489, for example, received grants for more
than one project.

Along with the yearly benchmarks, she said their overall
giving also reached a notable milestone.

“When we look at that total number, since 2007, we had a
really big milestone at Heartland, we passed the $3 million mark. So, for
projects altogether, we've granted out $3,205,263,” Meitner said. 

And those dollars have helped various groups and impacted a
wide variety of area residents, she said.

“It is to everything,” Meitner said. “It's to healthcare,
it's to schools, it's to victims organizations or to impoverished groups or to
churches. That really touches every element.”

“I like to say to people, you've probably been impacted by a
Heartland Community Foundation grant, you just don't realize it,” she
continued. “We are really truly behind the scenes, helping to give these grant
dollars to our local organizations. And they're the ones doing the amazing
work, they're the ones with feet on the ground, but they can't do it if they
don't have the funds and the support. And that's where we can help.”

She said often area non-profit organizations rely on
organizations like the Heartland Community Foundation to implement initiatives and
programs.

“They have great ideas,” Meitner said. “Our local
organizations are doing such incredible work. And sometimes they know what they
want to do to take it to the next level or to increase their capabilities or
increase their capacity, they just need a little bit of extra dollars to do it.”

And while many generous donors help fund those projects, combined
donations can be even more powerful, she said.

“They can depend on charitable dollars, they can depend on
our local donors who are so generous,” Meitner said. “But when you put that
power of endowment to work, it can really fill the gap.” 

“We were granting some pass-through dollars from the Dane G.
Hanson Foundation, which we’re really, really fortunate to have that
partnership,” she said. But those legacy dollars rely on fundraising to grow.

“These are the dollars that we are fundraising for every
February, and it's right around the corner,” Meitner said. “We fundraise during
what we call match month, and as we boost those funds, we can grant even more.”

And as the year ends, she said time remains to put charitable
dollars to work and receive the tax benefit for 2022.

“I always say talk to your financial advisor, but if there
is a need to lower your taxable income, a great way to do that is to make a
charitable gift,” Meitner said. “And you can open a donor-advised fund with the
Heartland Community Foundation, you get that gift for 2022. But you can decide
later where you want those charitable dollars to go.”

She added gifts could be accepted up to the end of the year
as long as they are postmarked by Dec. 31.

“But the benefit is that you get that tax deduction for 2022,”
she continued. “You don't even have to make the charitable gift to 2023, you
can make it at any point in the future, which is a really, really kind of neat
way to slide in there and get that donation when you don't quite know where you
want those dollars to go.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671823082996.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostWith just days left in 2022, the Heartland Community
Foundation reported this week grant awards this year total more than any
previous year.“We were founded in 2007, and when we
look at our total numbers for the year, this was our most amount granted year,”
said executive director Sarah Meitner. “We granted $429,772 in our fiscal year
2022, which is an astounding number.”Those grant awards were distributed across their three-county
service area, including Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties and included various
projects.<div><iframe title="Heartland community foundation wraps biggest grant year yet" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i6mer-1346d64-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“It was to 67 organizations for 129 projects,” Meitner said,
noting some organizations, like USD 489, for example, received grants for more
than one project.Along with the yearly benchmarks, she said their overall
giving also reached a notable milestone.“When we look at that total number, since 2007, we had a
really big milestone at Heartland, we passed the $3 million mark. So, for
projects altogether, we've granted out $3,205,263,” Meitner said. And those dollars have helped various groups and impacted a
wide variety of area residents, she said.“It is to everything,” Meitner said. “It's to healthcare,
it's to schools, it's to victims organizations or to impoverished groups or to
churches. That really touches every element.”“I like to say to people, you've probably been impacted by a
Heartland Community Foundation grant, you just don't realize it,” she
continued. “We are really truly behind the scenes, helping to give these grant
dollars to our local organizations. And they're the ones doing the amazing
work, they're the ones with feet on the ground, but they can't do it if they
don't have the funds and the support. And that's where we can help.”She said often area non-profit organizations rely on
organizations like the Heartland Community Foundation to implement initiatives and
programs.“They have great ideas,” Meitner said. “Our local
organizations are doing such incredible work. And sometimes they know what they
want to do to take it to the next level or to increase their capabilities or
increase their capacity, they just need a little bit of extra dollars to do it.”And while many generous donors help fund those projects, combined
donations can be even more powerful, she said.“They can depend on charitable dollars, they can depend on
our local donors who are so generous,” Meitner said. “But when you put that
power of endowment to work, it can really fill the gap.” “We were granting some pass-through dollars from the Dane G.
Hanson Foundation, which we’re really, really fortunate to have that
partnership,” she said. But those legacy dollars rely on fundraising to grow.“These are the dollars that we are fundraising for every
February, and it's right around the corner,” Meitner said. “We fundraise during
what we call match month, and as we boost those funds, we can grant even more.”And as the year ends, she said time remains to put charitable
dollars to work and receive the tax benefit for 2022.“I always say talk to your financial advisor, but if there
is a need to lower your taxable income, a great way to do that is to make a
charitable gift,” Meitner said. “And you can open a donor-advised fund with the
Heartland Community Foundation, you get that gift for 2022. But you can decide
later where you want those charitable dollars to go.”She added gifts could be accepted up to the end of the year
as long as they are postmarked by Dec. 31.“But the benefit is that you get that tax deduction for 2022,”
she continued. “You don't even have to make the charitable gift to 2023, you
can make it at any point in the future, which is a really, really kind of neat
way to slide in there and get that donation when you don't quite know where you
want those dollars to go.”

🎙 Heartland Community Foundation awards largest amount of grants in 15 year history 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A
new baler used to crush paper and cardboard for recycling is being installed this week at the city of Hays recycling center.&nbsp;

"We bale it, compress it, and then put it on trucks and send it down [to Stutzman Recycling Services in Hutchinson] to be recycled," City Manager Toby Dougherty told city commissioners at their Thursday meeting.

The old baler has been removed but they're been some installation problems with the new baler, Dougherty said.

"They're having to do some modifications on the new baler as well as the electrical service, so we might be without a baler for a few days."

The baling machine is unavailable so the city is asking residents not to set out their paper and cardboard recycling for collection for the next few days.

The public works department issued a <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1003">notice</a>&nbsp;about the situation early Thursday afternoon on the city's website.&nbsp;

"We don't have much space [in the recycling center] and we'd have to put it in the landfill. We do not want to put it in the landfill," Dougherty said.&nbsp;

"We're asking you to hold on to your cardboard and paper until you see a public service release that says please set it out again.

"Hopefully, we'll get it wrapped up early next week and get back to normal quickly."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577745500824.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA
new baler used to crush paper and cardboard for recycling is being installed this week at the city of Hays recycling center.&nbsp;"We bale it, compress it, and then put it on trucks and send it down [to Stutzman Recycling Services in Hutchinson] to be recycled," City Manager Toby Dougherty told city commissioners at their Thursday meeting.The old baler has been removed but they're been some installation problems with the new baler, Dougherty said. "They're having to do some modifications on the new baler as well as the electrical service, so we might be without a baler for a few days."The baling machine is unavailable so the city is asking residents not to set out their paper and cardboard recycling for collection for the next few days.The public works department issued a <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1003">notice</a>&nbsp;about the situation early Thursday afternoon on the city's website.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/afUkZ3Xy-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Toby Baler" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>"We don't have much space [in the recycling center] and we'd have to put it in the landfill. We do not want to put it in the landfill," Dougherty said.&nbsp;"We're asking you to hold on to your cardboard and paper until you see a public service release that says please set it out again."Hopefully, we'll get it wrapped up early next week and get back to normal quickly."

🎥 Hays customers asked to 'hold off' on setting out cardboard, paper for recycling

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s the Big 12 championship football game in Arlington, Texas. The offensive starters take the field. The big offensive linemen get in position for the first snap. A look at the roster reveals that this is homegrown talent: Three of K-State’s five starting offensive linemen come from the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

Cooper Beebe, Hadley Panzer, and Hayden Gillum are the Sunflower State starting linemen who help anchor Kansas State’s offensive line. Beebe is from Kansas City, Kansas and attended Piper High School. Panzer is from the rural community of Lakin, population 2,205, and Gillum is from the rural community of Plainville, population 1,746 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Cooper Beebe became a starter at K-State in 2020 – the same year he first earned All-Big 12 Academic honors. In 2021, he earned First Team All-Big 12 honors from both the league’s coaches and Associated Press -- the youngest offensive lineman to be named to the first team by either organization.&nbsp;

Beebe also was the first Wildcat freshman or sophomore offensive lineman to be named a First Team All-Big 12 performer since Dalton Risner in 2016. Beebe entered the 2022 season with lots of accolades: Pre-season All Big 12, pre-season All-American, and named to the Outland Trophy watch list.&nbsp;

At 6-foot-4 and 322 pounds, Beebe’s 2022 season has been outstanding. He was named a First Team All-Big 12 performer by the Associated Press for a second-consecutive season and First Team All-American by The Sporting News.&nbsp;

Named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year by the league's coaches, Beebe did not allow a sack among his 395 passing blocking snaps this season, according to Pro Football Focus. Beebe has not surrendered a sack in his last 28 games dating back to 2020.&nbsp;

Lakin’s Hadley Panzer is only a sophomore, but stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 300 pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hayden Gillum was a four-year letter winner at Plainville before coming to K-State as a walk-on. He earned Second Team Academic All-Big 12 honors. Now 6-foot-3 and 286 pounds, he has become a standout center for the Wildcats.&nbsp;

Speaking of walk-ons, Austin Moore is from Louisburg and walked-on at K-State in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a reserve linebacker, he earned First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors and was one of 13 players in the league to be nominated with a 4.0 GPA. He achieved First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors again in 2021.&nbsp;

Nicknamed ‘The Machine’ by his teammates, Moore started every game at linebacker in 2022. He finished the regular season with 82 tackles and led the Wildcats in tackling in three games.&nbsp;

Jaylen Pickle from Cimarron was another significant contributor for the Wildcats. The 6-foot-5, 310-pounder started at defensive end.&nbsp;

D.J. Giddens came to K-State from Junction City. He not only emerged as back-up running back to All-American Deuce Vaughn, he became a weapon for the Wildcats in his own right. Against West Virginia, the freshman had a 49-yard run for a touchdown.&nbsp;

Then there is punter/placekicker Ty Zentner from Topeka. He achieved Academic All-Big 12 honors in 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he was named to the Associated Press All-Big 12 team.&nbsp;

As a punter, Zentner enters bowl season ranked 17th in the nation and second in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average, a mark that currently ranks second in school history. He has 19 punts this season that have traveled at least 50 yards, while a career-high 26 of his punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.&nbsp;

As a placekicker, Zentner went 29-for-29 on extra-point attempts and 9-for-9 on field goals, including the one in overtime that gave K-State the Big 12 championship.&nbsp;

The state of Kansas has been good to the K-State football program. Since 1990, Wildcat players earning all conference honors have come from 33 cities in Kansas.&nbsp;

The Big 12 championship game is over, and confetti rains down as a Big 12 championship is celebrated by the Wildcats – including those big offensive linemen. We commend all Kansas kids for making a difference in playing so well for their in-state teams because we appreciate homegrown heroes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671637329704.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s the Big 12 championship football game in Arlington, Texas. The offensive starters take the field. The big offensive linemen get in position for the first snap. A look at the roster reveals that this is homegrown talent: Three of K-State’s five starting offensive linemen come from the state of Kansas.&nbsp;Cooper Beebe, Hadley Panzer, and Hayden Gillum are the Sunflower State starting linemen who help anchor Kansas State’s offensive line. Beebe is from Kansas City, Kansas and attended Piper High School. Panzer is from the rural community of Lakin, population 2,205, and Gillum is from the rural community of Plainville, population 1,746 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Cooper Beebe became a starter at K-State in 2020 – the same year he first earned All-Big 12 Academic honors. In 2021, he earned First Team All-Big 12 honors from both the league’s coaches and Associated Press -- the youngest offensive lineman to be named to the first team by either organization.&nbsp;Beebe also was the first Wildcat freshman or sophomore offensive lineman to be named a First Team All-Big 12 performer since Dalton Risner in 2016. Beebe entered the 2022 season with lots of accolades: Pre-season All Big 12, pre-season All-American, and named to the Outland Trophy watch list.&nbsp;At 6-foot-4 and 322 pounds, Beebe’s 2022 season has been outstanding. He was named a First Team All-Big 12 performer by the Associated Press for a second-consecutive season and First Team All-American by The Sporting News.&nbsp;Named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year by the league's coaches, Beebe did not allow a sack among his 395 passing blocking snaps this season, according to Pro Football Focus. Beebe has not surrendered a sack in his last 28 games dating back to 2020.&nbsp;Lakin’s Hadley Panzer is only a sophomore, but stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 300 pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hayden Gillum was a four-year letter winner at Plainville before coming to K-State as a walk-on. He earned Second Team Academic All-Big 12 honors. Now 6-foot-3 and 286 pounds, he has become a standout center for the Wildcats.&nbsp;Speaking of walk-ons, Austin Moore is from Louisburg and walked-on at K-State in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a reserve linebacker, he earned First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors and was one of 13 players in the league to be nominated with a 4.0 GPA. He achieved First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors again in 2021.&nbsp;Nicknamed ‘The Machine’ by his teammates, Moore started every game at linebacker in 2022. He finished the regular season with 82 tackles and led the Wildcats in tackling in three games.&nbsp;Jaylen Pickle from Cimarron was another significant contributor for the Wildcats. The 6-foot-5, 310-pounder started at defensive end.&nbsp;D.J. Giddens came to K-State from Junction City. He not only emerged as back-up running back to All-American Deuce Vaughn, he became a weapon for the Wildcats in his own right. Against West Virginia, the freshman had a 49-yard run for a touchdown.&nbsp;Then there is punter/placekicker Ty Zentner from Topeka. He achieved Academic All-Big 12 honors in 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he was named to the Associated Press All-Big 12 team.&nbsp;As a punter, Zentner enters bowl season ranked 17th in the nation and second in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average, a mark that currently ranks second in school history. He has 19 punts this season that have traveled at least 50 yards, while a career-high 26 of his punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.&nbsp;As a placekicker, Zentner went 29-for-29 on extra-point attempts and 9-for-9 on field goals, including the one in overtime that gave K-State the Big 12 championship.&nbsp;The state of Kansas has been good to the K-State football program. Since 1990, Wildcat players earning all conference honors have come from 33 cities in Kansas.&nbsp;The Big 12 championship game is over, and confetti rains down as a Big 12 championship is celebrated by the Wildcats – including those big offensive linemen. We commend all Kansas kids for making a difference in playing so well for their in-state teams because we appreciate homegrown heroes.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: K-State football connections

A new planner is one of my favorite things! Yes, I need it to keep me organized but I love opening a new planner with the potential for a new year!

A new year of fun – where do we plan family gatherings, vacations, or time with friends? What celebrations need to be a priority?

A new year of work – who can I impact through my work? Where do I plan programs with 4-H families, schools, or libraries for learning opportunities?

A new year of volunteering – where can I connect with my church family, with my community, or with other organizations to improve life around me?

A new year of partnerships – how can I&nbsp;collaborate&nbsp;with colleagues and community partners to better our connections and combined impact?

A new year of personal and professional development – where and how can I improve myself?

All of these questions relate to opening a new planner! In fairness, I started my new planner for 2023 back in October as I began adding priority dates for the new year.

We’ll have a couple of graduations to celebrate in our immediate family, as well as&nbsp;weddings and new babies for friends.&nbsp;

I have already filled in many dates for work events and activities for several months and I’m excited about the potential this&nbsp;brings for interacting with 4-H families, locally and regionally, as well as youth across our school districts. Important dates include 4-H Club Days which provide our 4-H members with an opportunity for learning in Communication Skills, a regional 4-H Fiber Arts Day, and presenting as a part of GBReads.&nbsp;

Volunteering includes serving as a cantor for my church and an officer in a state cattle organization that I am&nbsp;enthusiastic&nbsp;about. These provide moments to share my gifts while receiving so much in return as I refuel myself.

I consider myself a life-long learner and that has impacts both personal and professional. I have several opportunities to attend trainings and conferences this year and I look forward to expanding my thought process and my skill set.

I see all the possibilities of a new planner and a new year! What does a new planner hold for you?&nbsp;I am wishing you a new year of learning, of good work, and finding how you impact the world around you!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>A new planner is one of my favorite things! Yes, I need it to keep me organized but I love opening a new planner with the potential for a new year!A new year of fun – where do we plan family gatherings, vacations, or time with friends? What celebrations need to be a priority?A new year of work – who can I impact through my work? Where do I plan programs with 4-H families, schools, or libraries for learning opportunities?A new year of volunteering – where can I connect with my church family, with my community, or with other organizations to improve life around me?A new year of partnerships – how can I&nbsp;collaborate&nbsp;with colleagues and community partners to better our connections and combined impact?A new year of personal and professional development – where and how can I improve myself?All of these questions relate to opening a new planner! In fairness, I started my new planner for 2023 back in October as I began adding priority dates for the new year.We’ll have a couple of graduations to celebrate in our immediate family, as well as&nbsp;weddings and new babies for friends.&nbsp;I have already filled in many dates for work events and activities for several months and I’m excited about the potential this&nbsp;brings for interacting with 4-H families, locally and regionally, as well as youth across our school districts. Important dates include 4-H Club Days which provide our 4-H members with an opportunity for learning in Communication Skills, a regional 4-H Fiber Arts Day, and presenting as a part of GBReads.&nbsp;Volunteering includes serving as a cantor for my church and an officer in a state cattle organization that I am&nbsp;enthusiastic&nbsp;about. These provide moments to share my gifts while receiving so much in return as I refuel myself.I consider myself a life-long learner and that has impacts both personal and professional. I have several opportunities to attend trainings and conferences this year and I look forward to expanding my thought process and my skill set.I see all the possibilities of a new planner and a new year! What does a new planner hold for you?&nbsp;I am wishing you a new year of learning, of good work, and finding how you impact the world around you!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: Planning out a brand-new year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671831516440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house Not a creature was stirring EXCEPT that darn mouse.&nbsp; It chewed and it rustled so to honor my spouse I set out some traps for that darn pesky mouse.

We don’t have&nbsp;a chimney, or mantle or poker And the nearest we&nbsp;own to a fireplace is a smoker. Our&nbsp;stockings were all holey&nbsp;and strewn under the bed So&nbsp;our&nbsp;old hunting boots hung by the smoker&nbsp;instead.

Our puppy was nestled all snug in her bed Under the laundry room table with her stuffed toy named Fred. She quivered and whimpered;&nbsp;to watch her was funny As she&nbsp;dreamed she would finally corral that ol’ bunny.

My&nbsp;pj’s&nbsp;were&nbsp;long johns,&nbsp;all&nbsp;cozy and white And&nbsp;I crawled into bed&nbsp;and turned out the light. Deer season had ended with no deer in the shed So visions of deer jerky danced in my head.

My wife lay beside me in jammies of red She&nbsp;was already dreaming of Claus and his sled When out in the drive there&nbsp;arose such a ruckus I sprang&nbsp;from my bed to see what&nbsp;had struck us.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I should have known not to “spring” from my bed Cause I busted my&nbsp;big&nbsp;toe and clobbered my head.&nbsp; As I limped up the hallway I grabbed my deer rifle I’d show them I was someone with whom not to trifle!

I peered out the&nbsp;window and what did I see? Why old Santa himself, alive as could be. And there stood old Rudolf in all of his glory, With his nose shining brightly just like in the story.

But&nbsp;all I could see was his head on my wall&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;.&nbsp; With that bright red nose twinkling&nbsp;to brighten my hall His rack was enormous, at least twenty points,&nbsp; The thought of its score made me weak in my joints&nbsp;

I wanted that rack, whether legal or not,&nbsp; So I eased out the door to line up my shot. I clicked off the safety and steadied myself So I wouldn’t endanger the Jolly Old Elf.

Now remember those traps I’d set out before? Well there happened to be&nbsp;one&nbsp;right&nbsp;by the door. While I tried to be sneaky so no one would know That trap clamped its jaws around my sore&nbsp;big&nbsp;toe.&nbsp;

I jerked on the trigger and the shot&nbsp;went astray And ended up lodged&nbsp;in the front of the sleigh. The reindeer all&nbsp;spooked and&nbsp;yanked on&nbsp;the sled Dumping St Nick on the floor on his head.

They shot out the drive as slick as a whistle And away they all flew like the down of a thistle, But I heard him exclaim as they drove out of sight Rudolph you blockhead; no more deer hunters tonight!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house Not a creature was stirring EXCEPT that darn mouse.&nbsp; It chewed and it rustled so to honor my spouse I set out some traps for that darn pesky mouse.We don’t have&nbsp;a chimney, or mantle or poker And the nearest we&nbsp;own to a fireplace is a smoker. Our&nbsp;stockings were all holey&nbsp;and strewn under the bed So&nbsp;our&nbsp;old hunting boots hung by the smoker&nbsp;instead.Our puppy was nestled all snug in her bed Under the laundry room table with her stuffed toy named Fred. She quivered and whimpered;&nbsp;to watch her was funny As she&nbsp;dreamed she would finally corral that ol’ bunny.My&nbsp;pj’s&nbsp;were&nbsp;long johns,&nbsp;all&nbsp;cozy and white And&nbsp;I crawled into bed&nbsp;and turned out the light. Deer season had ended with no deer in the shed So visions of deer jerky danced in my head.My wife lay beside me in jammies of red She&nbsp;was already dreaming of Claus and his sled When out in the drive there&nbsp;arose such a ruckus I sprang&nbsp;from my bed to see what&nbsp;had struck us.&nbsp;&nbsp;I should have known not to “spring” from my bed Cause I busted my&nbsp;big&nbsp;toe and clobbered my head.&nbsp; As I limped up the hallway I grabbed my deer rifle I’d show them I was someone with whom not to trifle!I peered out the&nbsp;window and what did I see? Why old Santa himself, alive as could be. And there stood old Rudolf in all of his glory, With his nose shining brightly just like in the story.But&nbsp;all I could see was his head on my wall&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;.&nbsp; With that bright red nose twinkling&nbsp;to brighten my hall His rack was enormous, at least twenty points,&nbsp; The thought of its score made me weak in my joints&nbsp;I wanted that rack, whether legal or not,&nbsp; So I eased out the door to line up my shot. I clicked off the safety and steadied myself So I wouldn’t endanger the Jolly Old Elf.Now remember those traps I’d set out before? Well there happened to be&nbsp;one&nbsp;right&nbsp;by the door. While I tried to be sneaky so no one would know That trap clamped its jaws around my sore&nbsp;big&nbsp;toe.&nbsp;I jerked on the trigger and the shot&nbsp;went astray And ended up lodged&nbsp;in the front of the sleigh. The reindeer all&nbsp;spooked and&nbsp;yanked on&nbsp;the sled Dumping St Nick on the floor on his head.They shot out the drive as slick as a whistle And away they all flew like the down of a thistle, But I heard him exclaim as they drove out of sight Rudolph you blockhead; no more deer hunters tonight!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Local