Chuck's Chat - Welcome to January 2025!

I’ve watched at least four different weather forecasters over the past few days and it seems as though they all have dissimilar opinions regarding the approaching atmospheric conditions. Here along the Northern Sycamore Urban Boundary, we could receive rain, snow, ice, sub-zero wind chills, or a combination of all. But to go from a potential beautiful day this coming Saturday, to an immediate drop in temperatures will seem quite harsh compared to the relative mild environmental conditions we’ve been experiencing here of late. Alas, it is winter in Kansas, and it’s been a while since we’ve really encountered a good old fashioned cold, snowy, icy winter wonderland. Not that I’m in favor of it, just stating a fact.

The voting delegates of Kansas Farm Bureau at its annual meeting on December 9, 2024, voted to raise annual membership dues by $10 per paid membership. Dues will increase at the beginning of KFBs 2026 membership year, beginning on October 1, 2025, when KFB will begin collecting from the counties $38.50 for each paid membership. Stay tuned for information regarding Montgomery County dues activity. We will be discussing this at our upcoming board meeting.

There are many events coming up within the Wildcat Extension District area. Kansas Corn and Soybean Schools, Succession Planning, and Agricultural Payroll for Producers are just a few to mention. Look up Wildcat Extension District Events for details.

Farm Bureau members in Kansas are encouraged to register for Day at the Statehouse where farmers and ranchers learn about legislative issues, advocate policy with lawmakers and engage in valuable conversations to be the Voice of Agriculture. We’ve had really good representation from our county in the past. If you’re interested, registrations are due by January 10. Contact Kathy O’Brien at 620-331-0826 for information.

So, we’re getting a new/old/returning President this month. I sure hope all the radicals and rebel rousers stay home during the inauguration. My Kansas Highway Patrol son-in-law will be on duty as part of the Kansas delegation in Washington D.C. during the inauguration process. Prayers for a safe, uneventful experience for him will be greatly appreciated.

Stay warm. Be safe.

Until next month,

Chuck Voelker