Have you herd?

     Winter Livestock was named as a finalist Monday for the 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce, as recognized by the Kansas Sampler Foundation.
    "It is quite an honor," said Brian Winter, co-owner of Winter Livestock. "I think it will be exciting to see what happens."
    In November, the public nominated 103 businesses throughout the state to compete to become one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce. A selection committee then narrowed this list down to 24 finalists based on each nominees' "wow" factor and its special contribution to Kansas. 
    Winter Livestock was chosen as a finalist for its rich history and success in the industry, according to the Kansas Sampler Foundation.
    In addition to being the largest independent cattle auction company in the country, Winter Livestock is one of the oldest. Since its establishment in 1936, more than 26 million head of cattle have been merchandised for its customers. It has four locations — Dodge City; La Junta, Colo.; Enid, Okla.; and Riverton, Wyo. — as well as online auctions.
    Winter said the company's location and quality service have contributed to its longevity.
    "We've been in southwest Kansas for 120 years," Winter said. "Dodge City has always been a strong agriculture-based area with a lot of strong cattlemen, and I think that helps."
    The 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce is part of a series by the non-profit Kansas Sampler Foundation.
    In January 2008, the foundation named 8 Overall Wonders of Kansas. The 8 Wonders of Architecture and Art were also selected earlier this year.  
    Over the next two years, eight wonders will be selected in each of the remaining categories: commerce, cuisine, customs, geography, history and people.
    The purpose of the awards is to educate the public about Kansas and promote travel in the state.
    "Winners do not receive a cash reward or sculpture made in their honor," foundation director Marci Penner said in a statement Monday. "The only goal is to educate the world about Kansas — and have fun doing it. These are incredible finalists."
    The eight wonders will be determined by a public vote. 
    For more information about each finalists and to vote, visit 8wonders.org. Participants can also call (620) 585-2374 for a ballot.
    People can vote for finalists until midnight Feb. 17. The eight winners will be announced after the votes are tallied.

    Reach Cherise Forno at (620) 408-9931 or e-mail her at cherise.forno@dodgeglobe.com.