By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

We all know that relationships are an important part of life, but they are more impactful than we give them credit for. Dependable family members, stress-relieving friendships, and supportive coworkers bring color to life. These connections even support healthy behaviors, enhance mental health, and bolster brain function.

Who would have thought that relationships could have such a large stake in physical health? When we think about ways to improve well-being, many of us envision a leafy green salad, not a game of cards. However, the people we surround ourselves with (or don’t) have a larger role than we imagine.

First, quality connections give us purpose. If you’ve heard of the Blue Zones, you likely know the term “ikigai” that Okinawan centurions use to describe their purpose in life. In this culture, people have a distinct reason for waking up each morning, and for many, ikigai revolves around loved ones. Whether it is providing for children, caring for parents, or spending time with friends, what a person can give, adds meaning to life. This sense of purpose provides a deep understanding of the big picture which fuels optimism and resilience that strengthens mental health. People with a strong ikigai, are also more likely to prioritize healthy behaviors so they can achieve their ultimate purpose.

Relationships not only give meaning to life, they can provide a mental workout. Engaging in social activities stimulate various regions of the brain by strengthening neural circuits, producing hormones, and increasing connectivity. Social butterflies are more likely to have good cognition and memory while isolated people have a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. Just like physical exercise is good for the body, socialization is a workout for the brain.

A sense of community can give meaning to life, encourage healthy behaviors, and protect the brain. It can also support the immune system and strengthen the heart! So, how can you enrich your relationships?

1. Be curious. Take an interest in others and ask lots of questions. This opens up a door for conversation and lets others know you care about them. When you are curious, you may realize how much you have in common with others.

2. Practice generosity. We can’t control how people engage with us, but practicing the golden rule can help others reciprocate generosity in time and kindness.

3. Listen to understand. Sometimes we engage in conversation only to hear ourselves talk. Instead of trying to prove a point, slowing down and listening intently to what another has to say provides an atmosphere for connection. It also is a great way to learn through others' experiences.

4. Check in often. Creating lasting relationships takes time and effort. The more you engage with a person, the stronger your bond can grow. Be sure to schedule regular gatherings and phone calls to strengthen your social circle.

Relationships are a valuable part of life and the proof is evident. Investing in others provides physical benefits, strengthens mental well-being, and provides a sense of purpose. Taking an interest in our social fitness not only supports others, but it sustains physical health and happiness.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWe all know that relationships are an important part of life, but they are more impactful than we give them credit for. Dependable family members, stress-relieving friendships, and supportive coworkers bring color to life. These connections even support healthy behaviors, enhance mental health, and bolster brain function.Who would have thought that relationships could have such a large stake in physical health? When we think about ways to improve well-being, many of us envision a leafy green salad, not a game of cards. However, the people we surround ourselves with (or don’t) have a larger role than we imagine.First, quality connections give us purpose. If you’ve heard of the Blue Zones, you likely know the term “ikigai” that Okinawan centurions use to describe their purpose in life. In this culture, people have a distinct reason for waking up each morning, and for many, ikigai revolves around loved ones. Whether it is providing for children, caring for parents, or spending time with friends, what a person can give, adds meaning to life. This sense of purpose provides a deep understanding of the big picture which fuels optimism and resilience that strengthens mental health. People with a strong ikigai, are also more likely to prioritize healthy behaviors so they can achieve their ultimate purpose.Relationships not only give meaning to life, they can provide a mental workout. Engaging in social activities stimulate various regions of the brain by strengthening neural circuits, producing hormones, and increasing connectivity. Social butterflies are more likely to have good cognition and memory while isolated people have a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. Just like physical exercise is good for the body, socialization is a workout for the brain.A sense of community can give meaning to life, encourage healthy behaviors, and protect the brain. It can also support the immune system and strengthen the heart! So, how can you enrich your relationships?1. Be curious. Take an interest in others and ask lots of questions. This opens up a door for conversation and lets others know you care about them. When you are curious, you may realize how much you have in common with others.2. Practice generosity. We can’t control how people engage with us, but practicing the golden rule can help others reciprocate generosity in time and kindness.3. Listen to understand. Sometimes we engage in conversation only to hear ourselves talk. Instead of trying to prove a point, slowing down and listening intently to what another has to say provides an atmosphere for connection. It also is a great way to learn through others' experiences.4. Check in often. Creating lasting relationships takes time and effort. The more you engage with a person, the stronger your bond can grow. Be sure to schedule regular gatherings and phone calls to strengthen your social circle.Relationships are a valuable part of life and the proof is evident. Investing in others provides physical benefits, strengthens mental well-being, and provides a sense of purpose. Taking an interest in our social fitness not only supports others, but it sustains physical health and happiness.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Take back control, dining with diabetes

Imagine a gathering with 9 of your friends and family members. Now imagine that at least one of you has a disease that can lead to blindness, amputation, or stroke. The reality is not far-fetched.

About 1 in 9 adults in Kansas have been diagnosed with diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar. This is a result of insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance.

Now imagine if tools were available to help you and loved ones cope with the daunting disease. Would you sleep better at night knowing that you can be in control of glucose levels and reduce the risk of developing other health conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, or retinopathy?

Dining with Diabetes is one tool available to help you take control and regain peace of mind. This national program is designed to boost the health of those with prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes. The program serves to educate family members and caregivers while connecting participants to resources.

Through Dining with Diabetes, you will have the chance to learn the best ways to take care of yourself and your loved ones. This includes nutrition education and hands-on cooking demonstrations to help you gain confidence in preparing enjoyable meals that balance blood sugar. Also, participants will learn the importance of physical activity and how to realistically include it in day-to-day life.

The class will take place at the Hays Recreation Commission on June 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 4-6 pm. The cost is $35 for the 6- hours of hands-on learning experience. Please give us a call with any questions or to register at 785-628-9430.

Encounter support through Dining with Diabetes and connect with others who experience similar challenges. Find relief in knowing that diabetes management is possible for you!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictImagine a gathering with 9 of your friends and family members. Now imagine that at least one of you has a disease that can lead to blindness, amputation, or stroke. The reality is not far-fetched.About 1 in 9 adults in Kansas have been diagnosed with diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar. This is a result of insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance.Now imagine if tools were available to help you and loved ones cope with the daunting disease. Would you sleep better at night knowing that you can be in control of glucose levels and reduce the risk of developing other health conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, or retinopathy?Dining with Diabetes is one tool available to help you take control and regain peace of mind. This national program is designed to boost the health of those with prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes. The program serves to educate family members and caregivers while connecting participants to resources.Through Dining with Diabetes, you will have the chance to learn the best ways to take care of yourself and your loved ones. This includes nutrition education and hands-on cooking demonstrations to help you gain confidence in preparing enjoyable meals that balance blood sugar. Also, participants will learn the importance of physical activity and how to realistically include it in day-to-day life.The class will take place at the Hays Recreation Commission on June 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 4-6 pm. The cost is $35 for the 6- hours of hands-on learning experience. Please give us a call with any questions or to register at 785-628-9430.Encounter support through Dining with Diabetes and connect with others who experience similar challenges. Find relief in knowing that diabetes management is possible for you!###Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

There’s just something about a toad that “conjures” up visions of a witch in a huge black hat with a big hairy wart on her nose mumbling spells as she stirs a bubbling pot full of potion. Toads just look creepy, and then of course there is that propensity they possess to pee on anyone picking them up. Despite having a face only a mother could love, toads are extremely important to our planet. It is reported that a toad can eat ten thousand insects in one summer and are a big part of natures pest patrol (the person who did the counting for that study really needs a life!)

Toads begin their lives as tiny swimming tadpoles and eventually crawl onto land and begin breathing air, yet another of God’s creative mysteries. Toads, like other amphibians actually absorb air through their skin as well as getting it from their lungs with occasional breaths. They also absorb water though their skin rather than drinking it through their mouths.

If you have a dog, I’m quite sure you already know that toads have a mild toxin on their skin as protection. After licking or grabbing a toad with their mouth, a dog will begin frothing-at-the-mouth uncontrollably for a few minutes. It’s very temporary but quite funny at the time. One of our two little dogs doesn’t have the sense God gave a goose, and despite this being nearly a daily occurrence, she still cruises the flower beds looking for toads, after which she emerges, slobbering and frothing like some kind of crazed beast.

Because of toxins in their environment, toad populations are said to be declining nearly to the point of crisis, and I do believe we see fewer now than we used to. Raccoons, skunks and snakes are natural predators of toads. Besides protection from these predators, toads also need cool dark places to get away from the bright sun and weather.

Joyce has several large flower gardens and scattered throughout each garden she has created what she calls “toad abodes.” She takes broken clay or ornamental flower pots and turns them into cool, dark, secret hideaways for the resident toads. She finds an already shady spot beneath a big perennial plant, then simply

lays the broken pot on its side to form a little round-top enclosure into which the toads can easily crawl and hide themselves away from predators, pets and the heat of the day. One such hideaway is even made from the bleached white pelvic bone of a cow, drug home from the woods by our grandson. Laid beneath a big plant with long slender leaves that hang down over it, the arched shape makes a perfect secret hideout for a toad or two. Any object that has room for a toad to crawl inside will work, and besides protecting the toads, they look very decorative and rustic in the flower bed too.

So the next time you buy your pet a new toy or treat, think about your insect removal friends too. Find a broken clay pot or bowl and place it in a new spot in the garden for yet another toad abode. And next year, when you ask yourself what in the world that broken pot is doing in your flower bed and pick it up to remove it, don’t be surprised to see a pair of dark eyes looking back at you from beneath it. If you pick up that toad, hold it out away from you or you’ll probably get your shoes wet, and if you suddenly find your dog frothing and foaming at the mouth, don’t shoot it, it just licked a toad!... Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsThere’s just something about a toad that “conjures” up visions of a witch in a huge black hat with a big hairy wart on her nose mumbling spells as she stirs a bubbling pot full of potion. Toads just look creepy, and then of course there is that propensity they possess to pee on anyone picking them up. Despite having a face only a mother could love, toads are extremely important to our planet. It is reported that a toad can eat ten thousand insects in one summer and are a big part of natures pest patrol (the person who did the counting for that study really needs a life!)Toads begin their lives as tiny swimming tadpoles and eventually crawl onto land and begin breathing air, yet another of God’s creative mysteries. Toads, like other amphibians actually absorb air through their skin as well as getting it from their lungs with occasional breaths. They also absorb water though their skin rather than drinking it through their mouths.If you have a dog, I’m quite sure you already know that toads have a mild toxin on their skin as protection. After licking or grabbing a toad with their mouth, a dog will begin frothing-at-the-mouth uncontrollably for a few minutes. It’s very temporary but quite funny at the time. One of our two little dogs doesn’t have the sense God gave a goose, and despite this being nearly a daily occurrence, she still cruises the flower beds looking for toads, after which she emerges, slobbering and frothing like some kind of crazed beast.Because of toxins in their environment, toad populations are said to be declining nearly to the point of crisis, and I do believe we see fewer now than we used to. Raccoons, skunks and snakes are natural predators of toads. Besides protection from these predators, toads also need cool dark places to get away from the bright sun and weather.Joyce has several large flower gardens and scattered throughout each garden she has created what she calls “toad abodes.” She takes broken clay or ornamental flower pots and turns them into cool, dark, secret hideaways for the resident toads. She finds an already shady spot beneath a big perennial plant, then simplylays the broken pot on its side to form a little round-top enclosure into which the toads can easily crawl and hide themselves away from predators, pets and the heat of the day. One such hideaway is even made from the bleached white pelvic bone of a cow, drug home from the woods by our grandson. Laid beneath a big plant with long slender leaves that hang down over it, the arched shape makes a perfect secret hideout for a toad or two. Any object that has room for a toad to crawl inside will work, and besides protecting the toads, they look very decorative and rustic in the flower bed too.So the next time you buy your pet a new toy or treat, think about your insect removal friends too. Find a broken clay pot or bowl and place it in a new spot in the garden for yet another toad abode. And next year, when you ask yourself what in the world that broken pot is doing in your flower bed and pick it up to remove it, don’t be surprised to see a pair of dark eyes looking back at you from beneath it. If you pick up that toad, hold it out away from you or you’ll probably get your shoes wet, and if you suddenly find your dog frothing and foaming at the mouth, don’t shoot it, it just licked a toad!... Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: The toad abode

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

So, have you heard or read about the big Cicada “emergence” about to happen in several other Midwest and Southern states? These are not the annual cicadas we call “locusts” that are heard every August here in Kansas, but rather some of those that have been in the ground for 13 and 17 years. Cicadas are formally identified as “broods,” and starting any day now, two of these broods, brood XIX that emerge every 13 years, and brood XIII that emerge every 17 years are set to show themselves at the same time. This is a rare occurrence that last happened in 1803, and won’t happen again until the year 2245. Their sole purpose is to breed, after which they die; eggs are laid on tree branches, and upon hatching, the young fall to the ground and burrow themselves in around the trees, to emerge again in either 13 or 17 years. It’s been estimated there could be up to half a million of the critters per acre where they will be the worst. Audiologists are worried about the noise levels of the critters screeching “love songs,” warning that the sound from this many of them at once can actually be as loud as a jackhammer or lawnmower. “Bug Doctors” and those that study this sort of thing are about to wet themselves with excitement over the rare event, which some have labeled “cicada-geddon.”

I say all this in response to a discussion I heard on the radio today about eating cicadas. Years ago, I wrote a column entitled “My Reverse Bucket List,” where I listed a few things I DO NOT ever want to do, and KNOWINGLY and PURPOSLY eating bugs was one of them. If God had wanted me to eat bugs, he would have made me an ant eater or a bird, so today I still say no, no and nope to eating bugs.

However, it seems eating cicadas is not all that far-fetched. Amazon actually lists 4 cook books completely dedicated to cooking and eating cicadas; “The Cicada Cookbook,” “Cooking with Cicadas,” “Cicada Recipes for the Zombie Apocalypse” and “The Cheeky Cicada; A Culinary Adventure with Natures Symphony.” An internet search easily provided a list of possible cicada dishes, to include pan fried cicadas, chocolate covered cicadas, boiled cicadas, crispy cicada salad, cicadas marinara, spicy popcorn cicadas, cicada chips and even a recipe for chocolate cookies, each with a toasted cicada in the middle instead of a Hershey’s Kiss. Someone even suggested gathering a bunch while they are so plentiful and available, and freezing them by the bagful for later use. I can see it all now; the wife reaches into the freezer for a bag of frozen corn or peas and comes out with a

bagful of frozen locusts instead; that should make for interesting table talk at dinner.

I also stumbled across a few little pieces of advice and ditties concerning cooking and eating the little blighters. Concerning eating them, one person said “They’re great for the summer BBQ, while they are everywhere.” Another advised “No need to tear off the legs and wings, they just add to the crispiness.” Another slogan went something like this, “If you can’t beat em’, cook em’.”

Well, there you have it, a little history lesson, a little news story and a whole lotta’ cicada 101 all rolled into one. Just to reiterate, this won’t be happening in our neck-of-the-woods…this time, but in 17 states east and south of us. Also, just to reiterate, I still say no, no and nope to eatin’ bugs. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors (cicada free.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsSo, have you heard or read about the big Cicada “emergence” about to happen in several other Midwest and Southern states? These are not the annual cicadas we call “locusts” that are heard every August here in Kansas, but rather some of those that have been in the ground for 13 and 17 years. Cicadas are formally identified as “broods,” and starting any day now, two of these broods, brood XIX that emerge every 13 years, and brood XIII that emerge every 17 years are set to show themselves at the same time. This is a rare occurrence that last happened in 1803, and won’t happen again until the year 2245. Their sole purpose is to breed, after which they die; eggs are laid on tree branches, and upon hatching, the young fall to the ground and burrow themselves in around the trees, to emerge again in either 13 or 17 years. It’s been estimated there could be up to half a million of the critters per acre where they will be the worst. Audiologists are worried about the noise levels of the critters screeching “love songs,” warning that the sound from this many of them at once can actually be as loud as a jackhammer or lawnmower. “Bug Doctors” and those that study this sort of thing are about to wet themselves with excitement over the rare event, which some have labeled “cicada-geddon.”I say all this in response to a discussion I heard on the radio today about eating cicadas. Years ago, I wrote a column entitled “My Reverse Bucket List,” where I listed a few things I DO NOT ever want to do, and KNOWINGLY and PURPOSLY eating bugs was one of them. If God had wanted me to eat bugs, he would have made me an ant eater or a bird, so today I still say no, no and nope to eating bugs.However, it seems eating cicadas is not all that far-fetched. Amazon actually lists 4 cook books completely dedicated to cooking and eating cicadas; “The Cicada Cookbook,” “Cooking with Cicadas,” “Cicada Recipes for the Zombie Apocalypse” and “The Cheeky Cicada; A Culinary Adventure with Natures Symphony.” An internet search easily provided a list of possible cicada dishes, to include pan fried cicadas, chocolate covered cicadas, boiled cicadas, crispy cicada salad, cicadas marinara, spicy popcorn cicadas, cicada chips and even a recipe for chocolate cookies, each with a toasted cicada in the middle instead of a Hershey’s Kiss. Someone even suggested gathering a bunch while they are so plentiful and available, and freezing them by the bagful for later use. I can see it all now; the wife reaches into the freezer for a bag of frozen corn or peas and comes out with abagful of frozen locusts instead; that should make for interesting table talk at dinner.I also stumbled across a few little pieces of advice and ditties concerning cooking and eating the little blighters. Concerning eating them, one person said “They’re great for the summer BBQ, while they are everywhere.” Another advised “No need to tear off the legs and wings, they just add to the crispiness.” Another slogan went something like this, “If you can’t beat em’, cook em’.”Well, there you have it, a little history lesson, a little news story and a whole lotta’ cicada 101 all rolled into one. Just to reiterate, this won’t be happening in our neck-of-the-woods…this time, but in 17 states east and south of us. Also, just to reiterate, I still say no, no and nope to eatin’ bugs. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors (cicada free.)Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: No, No and Nope

By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight Kansas

As this year’s legislative session ends, it would be easy to focus on the overwhelming partisan conflict and stalemate that has become a reality in Kansas politics. However, legislative Democrats and Republicans have been able to make progress by working together on several criminal justice policies.

In April, Governor Kelly signed into law Senate Bill 458, which implements new reforms to the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act. Efforts like this aim to establish clear and fair guidelines for law enforcement when they attempt to seize private property in the investigation of a crime. According to the Office of the Governor, these reforms require “additional steps to initiate the civil asset seizure process and requires clear and convincing evidence in order to move forward with seizure.” These measures help prevent abuses of power and safeguard citizens’ property rights.

Civil forfeiture reform often brings together unlikely allies by tapping into libertarian beliefs about reigning in government power and liberal commitment to creating a more just criminal justice system. Working across party lines, this bill was passed unanimously.

The Kansas legislature also passed into law an increase in the compensation available to crime victims in the Crime Victims Assistance Fund. The result is that victims will now be eligible for a maximum weekly compensation of $800, compared to $400 previously. Being the victim of a crime can cause many types of harm, including financial harm. State-funded assistance programs can help victims cover medical expenses, including counseling, as well as lost wages. This provides victims greater stability, which in turn can promote healing. Once again, this bill passed unanimously earning praise from both Governor Kelly and Attorney General Kris Kobach.

And finally, Governor Kelly signed a “Good Samaritan” bill into law earlier this month. Senate Bill 419 provides immunity to those seeking help for themselves or others in the event of a drug overdose. Citing the importance of addressing the fentanyl crisis, legislators on both sides of the aisle came together to pass this bill unanimously.

This law reduces the hesitation to call for assistance in the case of an overdose by eliminating the fear of legal consequences. This immunity coupled with the wide public availability of Naloxone, a medicine that reverses an opioid overdose, will save lives in Kansas. Further, “Good Samaritan” laws foster a more supportive environment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, potentially opening pathways to treatment and recovery, rather than punishment. Prior to this bipartisan win, Kansas was one of only two states that did not have legal protections for those reaching out for assistance in cases of overdose.

While we shouldn’t expect ideological foes to agree on much in terms of the politically controversial issues of the day such as reproductive rights and taxation, these three bills, passed unanimously by a Republican-controlled legislature and signed into law by a Democratic Governor, are proof that bipartisan progress is possible in Kansas.

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375743023.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight KansasAs this year’s legislative session ends, it would be easy to focus on the overwhelming partisan conflict and stalemate that has become a reality in Kansas politics. However, legislative Democrats and Republicans have been able to make progress by working together on several criminal justice policies.In April, Governor Kelly signed into law Senate Bill 458, which implements new reforms to the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act. Efforts like this aim to establish clear and fair guidelines for law enforcement when they attempt to seize private property in the investigation of a crime. According to the Office of the Governor, these reforms require “additional steps to initiate the civil asset seizure process and requires clear and convincing evidence in order to move forward with seizure.” These measures help prevent abuses of power and safeguard citizens’ property rights.Civil forfeiture reform often brings together unlikely allies by tapping into libertarian beliefs about reigning in government power and liberal commitment to creating a more just criminal justice system. Working across party lines, this bill was passed unanimously.The Kansas legislature also passed into law an increase in the compensation available to crime victims in the Crime Victims Assistance Fund. The result is that victims will now be eligible for a maximum weekly compensation of $800, compared to $400 previously. Being the victim of a crime can cause many types of harm, including financial harm. State-funded assistance programs can help victims cover medical expenses, including counseling, as well as lost wages. This provides victims greater stability, which in turn can promote healing. Once again, this bill passed unanimously earning praise from both Governor Kelly and Attorney General Kris Kobach.And finally, Governor Kelly signed a “Good Samaritan” bill into law earlier this month. Senate Bill 419 provides immunity to those seeking help for themselves or others in the event of a drug overdose. Citing the importance of addressing the fentanyl crisis, legislators on both sides of the aisle came together to pass this bill unanimously.This law reduces the hesitation to call for assistance in the case of an overdose by eliminating the fear of legal consequences. This immunity coupled with the wide public availability of Naloxone, a medicine that reverses an opioid overdose, will save lives in Kansas. Further, “Good Samaritan” laws foster a more supportive environment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, potentially opening pathways to treatment and recovery, rather than punishment. Prior to this bipartisan win, Kansas was one of only two states that did not have legal protections for those reaching out for assistance in cases of overdose.While we shouldn’t expect ideological foes to agree on much in terms of the politically controversial issues of the day such as reproductive rights and taxation, these three bills, passed unanimously by a Republican-controlled legislature and signed into law by a Democratic Governor, are proof that bipartisan progress is possible in Kansas.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: A sliver of bipartisanship

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Asymbiotic or non-symbiotic N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and produce NH3 without being associated with plant or fungi.

The process used to fix N by asymbiotic organisms is highly energy intensive. The enzyme that serves as the fixation facilitator in bacteria is nitrogenase. To convert on molecule of N2 to one molecule of NH3, this required 16 ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules (the chemical fuel for many biological reactions) and 8 electrons. This compares to only 5 ATP to produce one peptide bond in the production amino acids, which is classified itself as a ‘high energy requirement’ (Smercina et al., 2019).

The energy required by asymbiotic organisms to fix N may come from a variety of sources depending on their spatial presence in the surface soil biome. The sources may consist of soil organic matter, and intermediary compounds during the process of plant/animal decay, or the decay of other microorganisms. A rich source of energy also comes from root exudates of growing plants. If N-fixing organisms are active inside living plant tissue, the energy for N-fixation has to come from the plant itself.

Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air. There is much more marketing information available to corn growers on these products than there is availability of published unbiased data from the North Central Region (NCR) of the U.S.

Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the NCR through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers.

Overall summary – sixty-one site years of N rate trials with and without the use of biological N fixing products were conducted in corn, spring wheat, sugar beet and canola in 10 states including Kansas within the NCR. Of the 61 site-years, 59 site-years had no yield increase with use of the product over N rate alone. Two site-years in corn had yield increases due to product use over the N rates alone. Given the low rate of positive benefits to the use of these products, growers should be skeptical of products that claim to provide asymbiotic/nonsymbiotic N-fixation for the purpose of allowing a farmer to decrease fertilizer N rate. It is good for farmers to be curious; however, the wise grower needs to test products of interest on their own farm in a replicated manner and search for unbiased data on product performance before using them on whole fields. There is a recently published primer on how one might conduct on-farm research. Titled “Promoting adoption of precision nitrogen management technologies through on-farm research” by Thompson et al., 2022.

This information came from NDSU Extension publication SF2080 (April 2023).

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictAsymbiotic or non-symbiotic N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and produce NH3 without being associated with plant or fungi.The process used to fix N by asymbiotic organisms is highly energy intensive. The enzyme that serves as the fixation facilitator in bacteria is nitrogenase. To convert on molecule of N2 to one molecule of NH3, this required 16 ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules (the chemical fuel for many biological reactions) and 8 electrons. This compares to only 5 ATP to produce one peptide bond in the production amino acids, which is classified itself as a ‘high energy requirement’ (Smercina et al., 2019).The energy required by asymbiotic organisms to fix N may come from a variety of sources depending on their spatial presence in the surface soil biome. The sources may consist of soil organic matter, and intermediary compounds during the process of plant/animal decay, or the decay of other microorganisms. A rich source of energy also comes from root exudates of growing plants. If N-fixing organisms are active inside living plant tissue, the energy for N-fixation has to come from the plant itself.Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air. There is much more marketing information available to corn growers on these products than there is availability of published unbiased data from the North Central Region (NCR) of the U.S.Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the NCR through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers.Overall summary – sixty-one site years of N rate trials with and without the use of biological N fixing products were conducted in corn, spring wheat, sugar beet and canola in 10 states including Kansas within the NCR. Of the 61 site-years, 59 site-years had no yield increase with use of the product over N rate alone. Two site-years in corn had yield increases due to product use over the N rates alone. Given the low rate of positive benefits to the use of these products, growers should be skeptical of products that claim to provide asymbiotic/nonsymbiotic N-fixation for the purpose of allowing a farmer to decrease fertilizer N rate. It is good for farmers to be curious; however, the wise grower needs to test products of interest on their own farm in a replicated manner and search for unbiased data on product performance before using them on whole fields. There is a recently published primer on how one might conduct on-farm research. Titled “Promoting adoption of precision nitrogen management technologies through on-farm research” by Thompson et al., 2022.This information came from NDSU Extension publication SF2080 (April 2023).Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Performance of N-fixing products in crop production

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

In the realms of history and academia, Chelsea Kiefer stands out as a beacon of dedication and inspiration. The Baltimore-born, North Carolina resident is an avid history enthusiast and the first-ever FHSU Online student to win the Torch Award. The Torch Award is presented each year to a few special students in recognition of their academic excellence and dedicated service to student, civic, or professional organizations.

Chelsea's academic journey is a testament to her tenacity. She dropped out of high school in the 10th grade, and then later decided to earn her GED. She then went to work, but her passion for history has always been a living, breathing vocation that drove her to soar through her studies at Fort Hays State University with a remarkable 3.99 GPA.

Chelsea moved to Raleigh from Augusta, GA, in 2020 so that her husband Tim could embark on his Ph.D. journey in Nuclear Engineering at North Carolina State University. Chelsea seized the opportunity afforded by the move to reshape her own professional future.

"It was the perfect timing," says Chelsea, reflecting on her decision to leave her job as a quality assurance specialist for a tax software company and pursue a career that aligned with her love for history and community engagement.

FHSU Online offered the flexibility she required, with an affordable and fully accredited history program tailored to accommodate her busy life. Her academic journey at FHSU was just as much about leadership and contribution as it was about mastering her discipline.

Chelsea served as the secretary of the honorary society for history, Phi Alpha Theta, and the History Club. She earned scholarships from the Honor Society and served as an online student representative for the Holocaust Remembrance and Education Month planning committees.

Her leadership and passion for advancing the field of public history are evident in a body of work that has touched people in a variety of settings. Chelsea served as a Docent Volunteer at the North Carolina Museum of History and an intern in collections. She served as a grant writer through the Dane G. Hansen program, contributing 300 invaluable hours writing grants on behalf of the Hays Areas Children’s Center.

Dr. Amber Nickell, assistant professor of history at FHSU, commends Chelsea’s astounding breadth of publications, academic presentations, and public engagements – a portfolio that would be enviable for a Ph.D. graduate, let alone an undergraduate.

But numbers and titles cannot capture the essence of who Chelsea is – a lover of animals, a devoted wife to Tim, a friend to her three rescue dogs, an avid reader, gardener, baker, and an enthusiast for the simple joys of family hikes and nurturing of house plants.

Her desire to connect people with their heritage led to the creation of the FHSU History Discord in June 2021, which now thrives with over 130 members. This lively digital forum, developed under Chelsea's guidance, has become an indispensable resource for students and professors alike.

Chelsea's volunteer work reflects her multifaceted interests and commitments. She has worked tirelessly at the North Carolina Museum of History and transcribed historical documents for

Densho.org, an organization that preserves stories of Japanese Americans held in World War II internment camps. She has also worked with the National Park Service and devoted her time to The Produce Project, a group that provides fresh produce in her Raleigh community. In addition to her wide-ranging commitments, she still finds time to care for her three beloved rescue dogs and seek new adventures alongside her husband, Tim.

Her scholarly work has not only been admirable but prolific. She’s presented original research at academic conferences and shared the findings from her papers as a guest on FHSU's Victor E. History Podcast. Her work has also been published in The Historians Magazine, and she’s earned the praise of FSHU history professor Dr. Amber Nickell for sharing her research with public audiences via presentations, podcasts, and publications.

Today, Chelsea is not only an alumnus with an undergraduate degree in history, a minor in sociology, and four certificates (global studies, grant writing, women’s and gender studies, and cultural diversity studies) but also a shining example of lifelong learning. Soon, she will begin pursuing her master's degree in Public History at FHSU.

Her leadership extends to numerous roles, including history club, Phi Alpha Theta, and various committees at FHSU and beyond. Through initiatives like the Holocaust Education and Remembrance Committee, Chelsea contributes to vital cultural and educational dialogues, epitomizing the role of a student leader who transcends the online domain.

Chelsea embodies the spirit of the Torch Award—perseverance, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to her community's past and present. Through her academic achievements, leadership, and benevolence, she has indeed lit the way, not only for current students but for all those who believe in the transformational power of education.

Chelsea Kiefer's story is not merely one of scholarly triumph but of an unquenchable zest for knowledge and thoughtful community engagement, proving that every chapter in life presents a new opportunity for greatness.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentIn the realms of history and academia, Chelsea Kiefer stands out as a beacon of dedication and inspiration. The Baltimore-born, North Carolina resident is an avid history enthusiast and the first-ever FHSU Online student to win the Torch Award. The Torch Award is presented each year to a few special students in recognition of their academic excellence and dedicated service to student, civic, or professional organizations.Chelsea's academic journey is a testament to her tenacity. She dropped out of high school in the 10th grade, and then later decided to earn her GED. She then went to work, but her passion for history has always been a living, breathing vocation that drove her to soar through her studies at Fort Hays State University with a remarkable 3.99 GPA.Chelsea moved to Raleigh from Augusta, GA, in 2020 so that her husband Tim could embark on his Ph.D. journey in Nuclear Engineering at North Carolina State University. Chelsea seized the opportunity afforded by the move to reshape her own professional future."It was the perfect timing," says Chelsea, reflecting on her decision to leave her job as a quality assurance specialist for a tax software company and pursue a career that aligned with her love for history and community engagement.FHSU Online offered the flexibility she required, with an affordable and fully accredited history program tailored to accommodate her busy life. Her academic journey at FHSU was just as much about leadership and contribution as it was about mastering her discipline.Chelsea served as the secretary of the honorary society for history, Phi Alpha Theta, and the History Club. She earned scholarships from the Honor Society and served as an online student representative for the Holocaust Remembrance and Education Month planning committees.Her leadership and passion for advancing the field of public history are evident in a body of work that has touched people in a variety of settings. Chelsea served as a Docent Volunteer at the North Carolina Museum of History and an intern in collections. She served as a grant writer through the Dane G. Hansen program, contributing 300 invaluable hours writing grants on behalf of the Hays Areas Children’s Center.Dr. Amber Nickell, assistant professor of history at FHSU, commends Chelsea’s astounding breadth of publications, academic presentations, and public engagements – a portfolio that would be enviable for a Ph.D. graduate, let alone an undergraduate.But numbers and titles cannot capture the essence of who Chelsea is – a lover of animals, a devoted wife to Tim, a friend to her three rescue dogs, an avid reader, gardener, baker, and an enthusiast for the simple joys of family hikes and nurturing of house plants.Her desire to connect people with their heritage led to the creation of the FHSU History Discord in June 2021, which now thrives with over 130 members. This lively digital forum, developed under Chelsea's guidance, has become an indispensable resource for students and professors alike.Chelsea's volunteer work reflects her multifaceted interests and commitments. She has worked tirelessly at the North Carolina Museum of History and transcribed historical documents forDensho.org, an organization that preserves stories of Japanese Americans held in World War II internment camps. She has also worked with the National Park Service and devoted her time to The Produce Project, a group that provides fresh produce in her Raleigh community. In addition to her wide-ranging commitments, she still finds time to care for her three beloved rescue dogs and seek new adventures alongside her husband, Tim.Her scholarly work has not only been admirable but prolific. She’s presented original research at academic conferences and shared the findings from her papers as a guest on FHSU's Victor E. History Podcast. Her work has also been published in The Historians Magazine, and she’s earned the praise of FSHU history professor Dr. Amber Nickell for sharing her research with public audiences via presentations, podcasts, and publications.Today, Chelsea is not only an alumnus with an undergraduate degree in history, a minor in sociology, and four certificates (global studies, grant writing, women’s and gender studies, and cultural diversity studies) but also a shining example of lifelong learning. Soon, she will begin pursuing her master's degree in Public History at FHSU.Her leadership extends to numerous roles, including history club, Phi Alpha Theta, and various committees at FHSU and beyond. Through initiatives like the Holocaust Education and Remembrance Committee, Chelsea contributes to vital cultural and educational dialogues, epitomizing the role of a student leader who transcends the online domain.Chelsea embodies the spirit of the Torch Award—perseverance, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to her community's past and present. Through her academic achievements, leadership, and benevolence, she has indeed lit the way, not only for current students but for all those who believe in the transformational power of education.Chelsea Kiefer's story is not merely one of scholarly triumph but of an unquenchable zest for knowledge and thoughtful community engagement, proving that every chapter in life presents a new opportunity for greatness.

Heart of a Tiger: 2024 graduate Chelsea Kiefer, power of FHSU Online

Walking into a garden center invites a flood of memory. Just turning in the driveway works like Pavlov’s Bell for convicted gardeners. Scents of soil, spicy petunias, heirloom roses, and dozens of other flowers trigger thoughts of grandma gardens and long ago visits to loved ones now passed. A trip down the vegetable aisle adds dozens more flashbacks to harvests of yore and hours of satisfying canning and jelly making. Who’da thunk a metal yard art peacock near the entry would overwhelm those other childhood remembrances.

I’d stopped for strawberry plants, so imagine my surprise to find myself loading a 2 1/2 foot tall, brilliantly colored metal peacock into the back seat of our Toyota. Luck was with me because it was half price, and once my eyes landed on it, I needed it. From first glance, sounds and sights of peacocks pee-yaaaahing and strutting at Meade Lake during childhood visits inundated my mind.

As youngsters, my cousins and I looked forward to summer visits to our grandparents in Meade. From the moment we entered their home, we couldn’t wait for Grandpa to impersonate that high-pitched, drawn-out wild call. He’d done it so often he sounded exactly like a peacock. Upon hearing that plaintive screech, requests to head to the lake escalated.

As a bonus, Grandma turned it into a festive picnic. Her fried chicken and best-ever potato salad tucked into an old-fashioned wicker basket along with other necessities heightened our anticipation. Grandpa tossed a blanket in the trunk in case other families had claimed tables in the picnic area where the flock of peacocks, peahens, and pea babies roamed near an artesian spring bubbling from deep in the earth.

Once we arrived, our grandparents turned us loose to seek brilliant-colored tail feathers male peacocks lost when they spread and rattled them in a courtship dance as old as time. Though it was past the usual breeding season of these exotic birds, those fellas still fanned their iridescent turquoise, emerald green, bronze, and electric blue tails sporting imbedded eyes. Ironically, as is often the case in nature, the females appeared drab compared to the males

As we scampered about grounds shaded by century-old, towering cottonwoods gleefully waving fists full of bright feathers, Grandpa encouraged the peacocks to respond to his realistic pee-yaaaaah! To our delight, at least one always answered.

From my current grandma perspective, I’m certain my grandparents looked forward to this excuse to change up schedules so they could haul grands to this far southwest Kansas oasis. The lake, the WPA era bathhouse, the winding trail to the artesian spring, groves of century-old cottonwoods, and those fanciful, out of place peacocks offered welcome respite from the daily grind of running a dime store on hot summer days.

For us, it formed life-long memories, even though those recollections hid until I spied that bright lawn ornament at a local garden store. Now, that peacock sits in my flower bed to remind me daily of precious times with loved ones.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716072908470.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINWalking into a garden center invites a flood of memory. Just turning in the driveway works like Pavlov’s Bell for convicted gardeners. Scents of soil, spicy petunias, heirloom roses, and dozens of other flowers trigger thoughts of grandma gardens and long ago visits to loved ones now passed. A trip down the vegetable aisle adds dozens more flashbacks to harvests of yore and hours of satisfying canning and jelly making. Who’da thunk a metal yard art peacock near the entry would overwhelm those other childhood remembrances.I’d stopped for strawberry plants, so imagine my surprise to find myself loading a 2 1/2 foot tall, brilliantly colored metal peacock into the back seat of our Toyota. Luck was with me because it was half price, and once my eyes landed on it, I needed it. From first glance, sounds and sights of peacocks pee-yaaaahing and strutting at Meade Lake during childhood visits inundated my mind.As youngsters, my cousins and I looked forward to summer visits to our grandparents in Meade. From the moment we entered their home, we couldn’t wait for Grandpa to impersonate that high-pitched, drawn-out wild call. He’d done it so often he sounded exactly like a peacock. Upon hearing that plaintive screech, requests to head to the lake escalated.As a bonus, Grandma turned it into a festive picnic. Her fried chicken and best-ever potato salad tucked into an old-fashioned wicker basket along with other necessities heightened our anticipation. Grandpa tossed a blanket in the trunk in case other families had claimed tables in the picnic area where the flock of peacocks, peahens, and pea babies roamed near an artesian spring bubbling from deep in the earth.Once we arrived, our grandparents turned us loose to seek brilliant-colored tail feathers male peacocks lost when they spread and rattled them in a courtship dance as old as time. Though it was past the usual breeding season of these exotic birds, those fellas still fanned their iridescent turquoise, emerald green, bronze, and electric blue tails sporting imbedded eyes. Ironically, as is often the case in nature, the females appeared drab compared to the malesAs we scampered about grounds shaded by century-old, towering cottonwoods gleefully waving fists full of bright feathers, Grandpa encouraged the peacocks to respond to his realistic pee-yaaaaah! To our delight, at least one always answered.From my current grandma perspective, I’m certain my grandparents looked forward to this excuse to change up schedules so they could haul grands to this far southwest Kansas oasis. The lake, the WPA era bathhouse, the winding trail to the artesian spring, groves of century-old cottonwoods, and those fanciful, out of place peacocks offered welcome respite from the daily grind of running a dime store on hot summer days.For us, it formed life-long memories, even though those recollections hid until I spied that bright lawn ornament at a local garden store. Now, that peacock sits in my flower bed to remind me daily of precious times with loved ones.

MADORIN: Passing on a Legacy

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Sometimes, the simplest things can help families stay within their monthly budget.

There are, for certain, common ways to save a few bucks this summer: turn down the air conditioner a tad, shut off the lights when you leave a room, watch less TV, draw the curtains when the sun is shining in.

But maybe there’s another way to think about saving money.

We’re coming into the longer days of summer, so think about what we can do outside that might not cost so much money, especially before it gets really hot. Maybe it’s just walking around the neighborhood, hanging out with your family outside in the yard. There are a lot of activities you can do instead of ‘doing something’ or ‘going somewhere’ that costs money.

During the recent COVID pandemic, the ‘Stay-cation’ became more popular, as families were forced to stay home rather than travel for vacation. The concept caught on, and even as the world opened up, many saw value in planning activities around their home base.

It’s a lot less stressful than traveling, and it’s a chance to unwind. Sometimes we schedule a vacation thinking we’ve got to go somewhere and we’ve got to do something and be active and that involves a lot of eating out and traveling. But there’s nothing wrong with staying around the house and doing some project, or just relaxing.

Another idea is visiting someplace close by that is unique and doesn’t involve much travel or eating out. We can always pack some food to take along especially for breakfast or lunch. And save the eating out for dinner.

Feeling time- or money-stretched is a sign that one needs to slow down and think about how they’re spending their time. It often can coincide with a boost to the family’s savings account.

When thinking about managing a family’s resources, it includes intentional, thoughtful choices that we all can make, but sometimes we get on auto pilot. Maybe we go to the grocery store and buy the same thing every week. That’s an opportunity for us to intentionally review what we’re regularly buying and eating.

There are rhythms and rituals. The rhythm of your day, the rhythm of your week and year. And then we have rituals, which are more like the daily things we do. It’s important to match the rhythms of your life to the rituals that you want in order to have a good life, and I think planning ahead can be very helpful to cut down on the stress in your life.

Food costs always seem to rise to the forefront when thinking of saving money. Planning menus each week can help consumers cut the bite of rising costs at the grocery store.

This is not all so serious that you can’t have any fun or you can’t have any treats. I think it gets back to intentionality of what it is you’re trying to accomplish.

There are ebbs and flows in managing money. We have different needs and wants. We have different income levels over time and across our lives. And so, it’s not like you make a plan that lasts forever. You plan and see how it works, and then adjust from there.

More information on personal well-being, including family resource management, is also available at local extension offices in Kansas.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictSometimes, the simplest things can help families stay within their monthly budget.There are, for certain, common ways to save a few bucks this summer: turn down the air conditioner a tad, shut off the lights when you leave a room, watch less TV, draw the curtains when the sun is shining in.But maybe there’s another way to think about saving money.We’re coming into the longer days of summer, so think about what we can do outside that might not cost so much money, especially before it gets really hot. Maybe it’s just walking around the neighborhood, hanging out with your family outside in the yard. There are a lot of activities you can do instead of ‘doing something’ or ‘going somewhere’ that costs money.During the recent COVID pandemic, the ‘Stay-cation’ became more popular, as families were forced to stay home rather than travel for vacation. The concept caught on, and even as the world opened up, many saw value in planning activities around their home base.It’s a lot less stressful than traveling, and it’s a chance to unwind. Sometimes we schedule a vacation thinking we’ve got to go somewhere and we’ve got to do something and be active and that involves a lot of eating out and traveling. But there’s nothing wrong with staying around the house and doing some project, or just relaxing.Another idea is visiting someplace close by that is unique and doesn’t involve much travel or eating out. We can always pack some food to take along especially for breakfast or lunch. And save the eating out for dinner.Feeling time- or money-stretched is a sign that one needs to slow down and think about how they’re spending their time. It often can coincide with a boost to the family’s savings account.When thinking about managing a family’s resources, it includes intentional, thoughtful choices that we all can make, but sometimes we get on auto pilot. Maybe we go to the grocery store and buy the same thing every week. That’s an opportunity for us to intentionally review what we’re regularly buying and eating.There are rhythms and rituals. The rhythm of your day, the rhythm of your week and year. And then we have rituals, which are more like the daily things we do. It’s important to match the rhythms of your life to the rituals that you want in order to have a good life, and I think planning ahead can be very helpful to cut down on the stress in your life.Food costs always seem to rise to the forefront when thinking of saving money. Planning menus each week can help consumers cut the bite of rising costs at the grocery store.This is not all so serious that you can’t have any fun or you can’t have any treats. I think it gets back to intentionality of what it is you’re trying to accomplish.Finances are a process.There are ebbs and flows in managing money. We have different needs and wants. We have different income levels over time and across our lives. And so, it’s not like you make a plan that lasts forever. You plan and see how it works, and then adjust from there.More information on personal well-being, including family resource management, is also available at local extension offices in Kansas.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Back to simplicity, tips to save on the family’s budget this summer

Cats of any description are fierce, efficient hunters, and feral cats, all-the-more. They do untold damage to pheasant and quail populations and kill large numbers of songbirds. By feral cats I mean cats that live totally in the wild and possibly haven’t had a domestic relative for years or even generations; NOT “Fluffy” next door that rolls around at your feet and plays hide and seek with you from a paper sack.

Feral cats have become so overpopulated in some states that over the years, hunting seasons have actually been proposed for them. Heck, when we were kids, we called feral cats RT’s, short for Running Targets. But I think I have some good ideas to actually utilize feral cats in today’s topsy-turvey society. For starters, and in light of all the recent “protests” at our nation’s colleges, how about using them for crowd control. Rioting crowds would probably react badly to snarling German Shepherds, which will soon be history anyway since the K-9 police units will probably be washed down the drain with the rest of law enforcement officers by those claiming animal cruelty. But who’s gonna’ notice a few fluffy cats rubbing against everyone’s legs. Really long-haired ones rolled in some sort of fairy-dust sleeping potion and turned loose to spread it through the crowd could have the “demonstrators” simply falling asleep where they stand. All that’s needed is to pile everyone against the curbs and traffic is restored; no buildings burned, no one shot, no historic statues that have stood there for generations torn down, and just look at the money saved on tear gas. Hopefully when the protestors all awake to see how pathetic they look on the evening news, they’ll just slink off into the shadows and be too ashamed to try it again.

Since it appears many 911 calls could soon be answered by only mental health professionals of some description who will undoubtedly be unarmed except for a clipboard and some colored markers, a few of the nastiest, old hag, feral cats can be trained to go with them when they enter whatever the new nations within our cities will call themselves by then. They can be carried in small cat size carriers or with those nifty little harnesses with a handle so they can be carted around like a lunch box. “A cat against a crowd of demonstrators?” you’re thinking. Remember,

these “demonstrators” that want the world to believe they are the toughest things since Dirty Harry are mostly snowflakes and tree huggers; they’ll urge violence against law enforcement officers and burn cities, but they won’t harm a cat. And if one does get out-of-line, that old hag, feral cat will lay them open like a fish with a couple lightning quick swipes of a paw; pretty good protection I’d say.

Those new nations set-up within our cities will probably become overrun with rodents, since none of the snowflakes or tree huggers would ever think of killing a mouse or rat. Heck, I have already read a report claiming someone released rats into one of the college “encampments.” Those rodents would soon spread out into the rest of the city, so a crew of feral cats released there could soon take care of the issue. Besides, the only food our feline mousers would be offered by residents there would probably only be vegan.

Well, there you have just a few examples of innovative ways to repurpose feral cats for today’s topsy-turvey world. I see it as a win-win-deal; a few feral cats are taken out of the wild, pet lovers are happy cause’ they weren’t killed and we hunters reap the benefits… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsCats of any description are fierce, efficient hunters, and feral cats, all-the-more. They do untold damage to pheasant and quail populations and kill large numbers of songbirds. By feral cats I mean cats that live totally in the wild and possibly haven’t had a domestic relative for years or even generations; NOT “Fluffy” next door that rolls around at your feet and plays hide and seek with you from a paper sack.Feral cats have become so overpopulated in some states that over the years, hunting seasons have actually been proposed for them. Heck, when we were kids, we called feral cats RT’s, short for Running Targets. But I think I have some good ideas to actually utilize feral cats in today’s topsy-turvey society. For starters, and in light of all the recent “protests” at our nation’s colleges, how about using them for crowd control. Rioting crowds would probably react badly to snarling German Shepherds, which will soon be history anyway since the K-9 police units will probably be washed down the drain with the rest of law enforcement officers by those claiming animal cruelty. But who’s gonna’ notice a few fluffy cats rubbing against everyone’s legs. Really long-haired ones rolled in some sort of fairy-dust sleeping potion and turned loose to spread it through the crowd could have the “demonstrators” simply falling asleep where they stand. All that’s needed is to pile everyone against the curbs and traffic is restored; no buildings burned, no one shot, no historic statues that have stood there for generations torn down, and just look at the money saved on tear gas. Hopefully when the protestors all awake to see how pathetic they look on the evening news, they’ll just slink off into the shadows and be too ashamed to try it again.Since it appears many 911 calls could soon be answered by only mental health professionals of some description who will undoubtedly be unarmed except for a clipboard and some colored markers, a few of the nastiest, old hag, feral cats can be trained to go with them when they enter whatever the new nations within our cities will call themselves by then. They can be carried in small cat size carriers or with those nifty little harnesses with a handle so they can be carted around like a lunch box. “A cat against a crowd of demonstrators?” you’re thinking. Remember,these “demonstrators” that want the world to believe they are the toughest things since Dirty Harry are mostly snowflakes and tree huggers; they’ll urge violence against law enforcement officers and burn cities, but they won’t harm a cat. And if one does get out-of-line, that old hag, feral cat will lay them open like a fish with a couple lightning quick swipes of a paw; pretty good protection I’d say.Those new nations set-up within our cities will probably become overrun with rodents, since none of the snowflakes or tree huggers would ever think of killing a mouse or rat. Heck, I have already read a report claiming someone released rats into one of the college “encampments.” Those rodents would soon spread out into the rest of the city, so a crew of feral cats released there could soon take care of the issue. Besides, the only food our feline mousers would be offered by residents there would probably only be vegan.Well, there you have just a few examples of innovative ways to repurpose feral cats for today’s topsy-turvey world. I see it as a win-win-deal; a few feral cats are taken out of the wild, pet lovers are happy cause’ they weren’t killed and we hunters reap the benefits… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Repurposing feral cats for today’s topsy-turvey world

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

Kansas policymakers are abuzz about the recent defeat of a sports stadium tax in Jackson County, MO.&nbsp; Unfortunately, they’re saying all the wrong things.&nbsp; To paraphrase James Carville, “it’s affordable housing, stupid.”

If the tax had been approved, the money would have gone to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs.&nbsp; The three eights cent sales tax extension would also have partially financed a new, downtown stadium for the Royals. Before the vote, nearly all publicity was on the Royals, who confused voters by&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/future-chiefs-royals-kc-could-124519748.html">repeatedly changing plans and venues</a>&nbsp;for months prior to the vote.&nbsp; The opposition was led by KC Tenants, who had a<a href="https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2024-04-03/kc-tenants-leader-says-regressive-tax-ask-from-billionaire-owners-motivated-opposition">&nbsp;simple message</a>– why subsidize billionaire-owned, for-profit sports teams with a regressive sales tax that falls hardest on the poor, when Kansas Citians cannot find decent, affordable housing? This problem extends well into Kansas.

Few observers believe the defeat had anything to do with Arrowhead Stadium, or the Chiefs. Arrowhead will already be the&nbsp;<a href="https://fox4kc.com/sports/2026-world-cup/chiefs-sporting-execs-say-world-cup-stadium-updates-will-begin-soon/">site of renovations&nbsp;</a>in advance of the 2026 World Cup, which will feature games played there. For additional improvements, the Chiefs and Royals now plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jefffedotin/2024/04/28/why-the-chiefs-and-royals-will-go-their-separate-ways-on-future-stadium-plans/?sh=6f700328f0b7">seek support separately</a>. The Chiefs have a stronger case, and they wish to remain at Arrowhead.

Of course, none of this kept the hype machine from springing into action.&nbsp; Proposals came from as far away as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/article/chiefs-consider-san-antonio-move-19454861.php">San Antonio</a>, suggesting that the Chiefs move (they have a fiercely loyal fan base here and no plans to move).&nbsp; Ignoring the caution of Governor Kelly, Kansas Legislators also leapt into the act, suggesting an&nbsp;<a href="https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-lawmakers-get-glimpse-of-chiefs-future-as-they-consider-star-bond-package/">extravagant new Chiefs stadium in Wyandotte County,</a>&nbsp;with a ludicrous plan to fund it with STAR bonds.&nbsp; Considering that the more modest Prairie Fire project in Overland Park recently&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/johnson-county-mega-development-defaults-123000389.html">defaulted&nbsp;on its STAR bonds</a>, the idea that a multibillion dollar football stadium could be entirely financed this way is outrageous. Granted, Sporting Kansas City’s Children's Mercy soccer stadium in Wyandotte County was a successful STAR bonds project–but it is much smaller and only a fraction the cost of a new football stadium.&nbsp; When STAR bonds default, Kansas and/or local taxpayers are on the hook, as with Prairie Fire.

All this hype completely misses the point.&nbsp; The real story of that Jackson County vote is not about sports at all.&nbsp; It is about housing costs.

KC Tenants is a&nbsp;<a href="https://kctenants.org/">new group</a>&nbsp;formed out of backlash against the KC area’s skyrocketing housing costs and substandard rental housing. Last year, they upset an establishment candidate to win a seat on the KCMO city council, and now this. The housing problem is also hitting hard in Kansas, and it is only a matter of time before KC Tenants or similar groups start popping up here. They secured a 58% “no” vote on the sports tax in Jackson County, despite being outspent by about 20 to 1.&nbsp;

Housing costs are shooting up all over Kansas.&nbsp; In the last year, they rose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article288145480.html">6.9% in KC</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.zillow.com/home-values/32452/lawrence-ks/">5.5% in Lawrence</a>&nbsp;(where they were already high), and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/19878/KS/Wichita/housing-market">whopping 10.9% in Wichita</a>. In Topeka, a recent KSNT story found that housing costs have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksnt.com/news/local-news/sell-incredibly-quickly-topekas-home-prices-continue-to-climb/#:~:text=The%20data%20shows%20that%20since,home%20in%20Topeka%20is%20%24183%2C992.">nearly doubled in the last two decades</a>.&nbsp; In many places where affordable housing can still be found, it is in poor condition.&nbsp; This includes&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/11/as-rural-homelessness-increases-hud-aims-money-at-helping-people-without-access-to-shelters/">large swaths of rural Kansas</a>.

Nationally, housing costs are rising&nbsp;<a href="https://lbmjournal.com/home-prices-are-rising-2x-faster-than-income/">twice as fast as wages</a>.&nbsp; This drains money from other needs, lowers the quality of life, and worsens homelessness.&nbsp; Expect this new movement’s influence to keep spreading across both states, until policymakers start listening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasKansas policymakers are abuzz about the recent defeat of a sports stadium tax in Jackson County, MO.&nbsp; Unfortunately, they’re saying all the wrong things.&nbsp; To paraphrase James Carville, “it’s affordable housing, stupid.”If the tax had been approved, the money would have gone to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs.&nbsp; The three eights cent sales tax extension would also have partially financed a new, downtown stadium for the Royals. Before the vote, nearly all publicity was on the Royals, who confused voters by&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/future-chiefs-royals-kc-could-124519748.html">repeatedly changing plans and venues</a>&nbsp;for months prior to the vote.&nbsp; The opposition was led by KC Tenants, who had a<a href="https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2024-04-03/kc-tenants-leader-says-regressive-tax-ask-from-billionaire-owners-motivated-opposition">&nbsp;simple message</a>– why subsidize billionaire-owned, for-profit sports teams with a regressive sales tax that falls hardest on the poor, when Kansas Citians cannot find decent, affordable housing? This problem extends well into Kansas.Few observers believe the defeat had anything to do with Arrowhead Stadium, or the Chiefs. Arrowhead will already be the&nbsp;<a href="https://fox4kc.com/sports/2026-world-cup/chiefs-sporting-execs-say-world-cup-stadium-updates-will-begin-soon/">site of renovations&nbsp;</a>in advance of the 2026 World Cup, which will feature games played there. For additional improvements, the Chiefs and Royals now plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jefffedotin/2024/04/28/why-the-chiefs-and-royals-will-go-their-separate-ways-on-future-stadium-plans/?sh=6f700328f0b7">seek support separately</a>. The Chiefs have a stronger case, and they wish to remain at Arrowhead.Of course, none of this kept the hype machine from springing into action.&nbsp; Proposals came from as far away as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/article/chiefs-consider-san-antonio-move-19454861.php">San Antonio</a>, suggesting that the Chiefs move (they have a fiercely loyal fan base here and no plans to move).&nbsp; Ignoring the caution of Governor Kelly, Kansas Legislators also leapt into the act, suggesting an&nbsp;<a href="https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-lawmakers-get-glimpse-of-chiefs-future-as-they-consider-star-bond-package/">extravagant new Chiefs stadium in Wyandotte County,</a>&nbsp;with a ludicrous plan to fund it with STAR bonds.&nbsp; Considering that the more modest Prairie Fire project in Overland Park recently&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/johnson-county-mega-development-defaults-123000389.html">defaulted&nbsp;on its STAR bonds</a>, the idea that a multibillion dollar football stadium could be entirely financed this way is outrageous. Granted, Sporting Kansas City’s Children's Mercy soccer stadium in Wyandotte County was a successful STAR bonds project–but it is much smaller and only a fraction the cost of a new football stadium.&nbsp; When STAR bonds default, Kansas and/or local taxpayers are on the hook, as with Prairie Fire.All this hype completely misses the point.&nbsp; The real story of that Jackson County vote is not about sports at all.&nbsp; It is about housing costs.KC Tenants is a&nbsp;<a href="https://kctenants.org/">new group</a>&nbsp;formed out of backlash against the KC area’s skyrocketing housing costs and substandard rental housing. Last year, they upset an establishment candidate to win a seat on the KCMO city council, and now this. The housing problem is also hitting hard in Kansas, and it is only a matter of time before KC Tenants or similar groups start popping up here. They secured a 58% “no” vote on the sports tax in Jackson County, despite being outspent by about 20 to 1.&nbsp;Housing costs are shooting up all over Kansas.&nbsp; In the last year, they rose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article288145480.html">6.9% in KC</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.zillow.com/home-values/32452/lawrence-ks/">5.5% in Lawrence</a>&nbsp;(where they were already high), and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/19878/KS/Wichita/housing-market">whopping 10.9% in Wichita</a>. In Topeka, a recent KSNT story found that housing costs have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksnt.com/news/local-news/sell-incredibly-quickly-topekas-home-prices-continue-to-climb/#:~:text=The%20data%20shows%20that%20since,home%20in%20Topeka%20is%20%24183%2C992.">nearly doubled in the last two decades</a>.&nbsp; In many places where affordable housing can still be found, it is in poor condition.&nbsp; This includes&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/11/as-rural-homelessness-increases-hud-aims-money-at-helping-people-without-access-to-shelters/">large swaths of rural Kansas</a>.Nationally, housing costs are rising&nbsp;<a href="https://lbmjournal.com/home-prices-are-rising-2x-faster-than-income/">twice as fast as wages</a>.&nbsp; This drains money from other needs, lowers the quality of life, and worsens homelessness.&nbsp; Expect this new movement’s influence to keep spreading across both states, until policymakers start listening.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansas needs affordable housing, not a football stadium

Although soybeans are grown more north and east of Ellis County, I felt this information on a new pest of soybeans would be of interest to the agriculture community as a whole.

In 2023, soybean gall midge was found infesting soybean and sweet clover in Marshall and Nemaha counties. Since this pest can overwinter in Kansas, producers should be on the lookout for additional infestations in 2024.

The Soybean Gall Midge (Resseliella maxima) was first observed in Nebraska in 2011 but was not officially described as a new species until 2018 when this tiny fly established itself as an emerging pest of soybeans in South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Iowa. New infestations have been documented every year since and its range has expanded into Missouri. Soybean gall midge has been documented in Nebraska along the Kansas border as recently as 2021. This pest should be actively scouted for during the growing season, especially in counties along the Nebraska border.

Losses from soybean gall midge infestation are due to plant death and lodging. Heavily infested fields have shown the potential for complete yield losses from the edge of the field up to 100 feet into the field and a 20% yield loss from 200 to 400 feet into the field.

Identification and Lifecycle -Adults: tiny (2-3mm), delicate flies with an orange abdomen, slender bodies and mottled wings. Long legs are banded with alternating light and dark markings. Larvae: small, legless, maggots that are clear to white-colored when young but turn bright orange when mature.

Soybean gall midge overwinters as larvae in the first few inches of soil. After pupation in the early spring, adult midges emerge and lay their eggs on the lower portions of stems or at the base of soybean plants. The eggs hatch and the larvae feed within the stems. Infestation does not occur until the V2 stage when natural fissures and cracks appear in stems allowing entry by larvae. Infestation can continue into the reproductive growth stages. So far, there appear to be at least two generations per growing season. The adult soybean gall midges do not feed on soybeans.

Scouting - begin scouting soybean plants at the V2 growth stage. Symptoms of infestation include:

1. wilting or dead soybeans along field edges with decreasing damage into the center of the field,

2. darkening and swelling at the base of stems,

3. brittle stems that break easily near their base, and

4. small orange larvae present in split open stems.

Management - as such a new pest, no published research-based management recommendations are currently available. On-farm studies in impacted states are examining the effects of cultural practices and insecticides on preventing losses. Seed treatments have not been shown to be effective.

Please report any occurrence of soybean gall midge to your local extension professional or contact the K-State Entomology Department. The Soybean Gall Midge Alert Network, https://soybeangallmidge.org/, can be used to track developments regarding this new pest.

Information provided by Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomology, Southwest Research and Extension Center.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictAlthough soybeans are grown more north and east of Ellis County, I felt this information on a new pest of soybeans would be of interest to the agriculture community as a whole.In 2023, soybean gall midge was found infesting soybean and sweet clover in Marshall and Nemaha counties. Since this pest can overwinter in Kansas, producers should be on the lookout for additional infestations in 2024.The Soybean Gall Midge (Resseliella maxima) was first observed in Nebraska in 2011 but was not officially described as a new species until 2018 when this tiny fly established itself as an emerging pest of soybeans in South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Iowa. New infestations have been documented every year since and its range has expanded into Missouri. Soybean gall midge has been documented in Nebraska along the Kansas border as recently as 2021. This pest should be actively scouted for during the growing season, especially in counties along the Nebraska border.Losses from soybean gall midge infestation are due to plant death and lodging. Heavily infested fields have shown the potential for complete yield losses from the edge of the field up to 100 feet into the field and a 20% yield loss from 200 to 400 feet into the field.Identification and Lifecycle -Adults: tiny (2-3mm), delicate flies with an orange abdomen, slender bodies and mottled wings. Long legs are banded with alternating light and dark markings. Larvae: small, legless, maggots that are clear to white-colored when young but turn bright orange when mature.Soybean gall midge overwinters as larvae in the first few inches of soil. After pupation in the early spring, adult midges emerge and lay their eggs on the lower portions of stems or at the base of soybean plants. The eggs hatch and the larvae feed within the stems. Infestation does not occur until the V2 stage when natural fissures and cracks appear in stems allowing entry by larvae. Infestation can continue into the reproductive growth stages. So far, there appear to be at least two generations per growing season. The adult soybean gall midges do not feed on soybeans.Scouting - begin scouting soybean plants at the V2 growth stage. Symptoms of infestation include:1. wilting or dead soybeans along field edges with decreasing damage into the center of the field,2. darkening and swelling at the base of stems,3. brittle stems that break easily near their base, and4. small orange larvae present in split open stems.Management - as such a new pest, no published research-based management recommendations are currently available. On-farm studies in impacted states are examining the effects of cultural practices and insecticides on preventing losses. Seed treatments have not been shown to be effective.Please report any occurrence of soybean gall midge to your local extension professional or contact the K-State Entomology Department. The Soybean Gall Midge Alert Network, https://soybeangallmidge.org/, can be used to track developments regarding this new pest.Information provided by Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomology, Southwest Research and Extension Center.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Be on the lookout for Soybean Gall Midge

Hays Arts Council and Fort Hays Art Department organize and celebrate Art Walks and Galas every year. Attendees expect to view quality art, enjoy live music, and nibble hors d’ oeuvres. Once a year in tiny Grainfield, soon-to-be retired art instructor Ronna Schulz and her students offer Wheatland School District families, patrons, and guests a similar extravaganza.

Ronna’s sister invited me to Ronna’s final Art Preview this year. Over decades, my friend Cindy shared intriguing details, notably that her sister’s students receive multiple regional and national awards every year. Despite knowing the competitive drive Ronna passes on to her students, I had no idea the treat I’d experience.

Keep in mind Wheatland is a 1 A District, constituting several communities and miles of surrounding countryside. Avoid blinking as you drive past so you see the brick secondary facility on Grainfield’s south side of I-70. Its classrooms, athletic fields, and courts serve rural kids. Art teacher Ronna’s credentials include ranch wife, mother of four, now grandmother, one time scout leader, K -12 art teacher, and more. Her lengthy resumé equals or exceeds that of other vibrant souls who make this tiny community thrive.

Growing up as a small-town teacher’s kid, Ronna’s family encouraged participation, education, and creativity on a stringent budget. Each sibling learned to make do and celebrate events with style, leading to epic holidays and weddings. She’s shared those lessons with students to celebrate each years’ accomplishments at the Art Preview.

Walking into the facility, nostrils twitch as luscious scents waft from the kitchen. Bouquets, some acknowledging Ronna’s retirement and others as décor, welcome guests. Two festively-dressed students take tickets, hand out out guest-choice ballots, and offer attendees opportunities to participate in a fundraiser to support the art department.

Down the hall, the gym is not a gym. Young men greet guests with sparkling cider-filled tulip glasses. Along the nearby east wall, display panels and tables showcase secondary art. Nearby, a multi-tiered chocolate fountain surrounded with pretzels, tiny rice-crispy squares, strawberries, and more dipping treats awaits those willing to stand in line. Nearby, suited students normally attired in jeans and boots or tennies offer attendees fresh-brewed coffee.

A table set with black dinnerware framing smiling photos remembers students, one her son, who passed away during Ronna’s tenure as art teacher. Beloved faces and names below photos trigger frantic searches for tissues.

Art students following Emily Post’s Etiquette guidelines elegantly set hundreds of places on tables arranged through the room’s center. South of the tables, artful décor highlights a podium and reveals the music teacher who plays piano all evening.

Elementary school art fills displays and tables near the west wall. Viewers see skill transitions from beginner to accomplished artist as they examine art produced by kindergarteners to 12th graders.

To support their artists, local families and businesses donated silent auction items including gift certificates, art, food items, and more. Contenders good-naturedly battled to stay on top of their bids. Despite Ronna’s retirement, the art department will go on.

Students, following upscale restaurant protocols, served dinner. One server ground fresh parmesan over salads. Brownie sundaes followed roast beef, potatoes, green beans, rolls, and salads. No one left hungry. Student-servers conscientiously poured water and tea over guests’ right shoulders. Obviously, they learned more than art as they put this evening together for families and community.

Following entertainment provided by forensic team members, Ronna honored her students and identified those who won regional and national awards. Several have work hanging in Congressional Offices in Washington D.C. and Kansas.

As she transitions into the next season of her life, Ronna obviously expects Wheatland School Art programs to continue. Heading home into a pastel Kansas sky painted by a master artist fittingly ended this unexpected surprise.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715365440308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINHays Arts Council and Fort Hays Art Department organize and celebrate Art Walks and Galas every year. Attendees expect to view quality art, enjoy live music, and nibble hors d’ oeuvres. Once a year in tiny Grainfield, soon-to-be retired art instructor Ronna Schulz and her students offer Wheatland School District families, patrons, and guests a similar extravaganza.Ronna’s sister invited me to Ronna’s final Art Preview this year. Over decades, my friend Cindy shared intriguing details, notably that her sister’s students receive multiple regional and national awards every year. Despite knowing the competitive drive Ronna passes on to her students, I had no idea the treat I’d experience.Keep in mind Wheatland is a 1 A District, constituting several communities and miles of surrounding countryside. Avoid blinking as you drive past so you see the brick secondary facility on Grainfield’s south side of I-70. Its classrooms, athletic fields, and courts serve rural kids. Art teacher Ronna’s credentials include ranch wife, mother of four, now grandmother, one time scout leader, K -12 art teacher, and more. Her lengthy resumé equals or exceeds that of other vibrant souls who make this tiny community thrive.Growing up as a small-town teacher’s kid, Ronna’s family encouraged participation, education, and creativity on a stringent budget. Each sibling learned to make do and celebrate events with style, leading to epic holidays and weddings. She’s shared those lessons with students to celebrate each years’ accomplishments at the Art Preview.Walking into the facility, nostrils twitch as luscious scents waft from the kitchen. Bouquets, some acknowledging Ronna’s retirement and others as décor, welcome guests. Two festively-dressed students take tickets, hand out out guest-choice ballots, and offer attendees opportunities to participate in a fundraiser to support the art department.Down the hall, the gym is not a gym. Young men greet guests with sparkling cider-filled tulip glasses. Along the nearby east wall, display panels and tables showcase secondary art. Nearby, a multi-tiered chocolate fountain surrounded with pretzels, tiny rice-crispy squares, strawberries, and more dipping treats awaits those willing to stand in line. Nearby, suited students normally attired in jeans and boots or tennies offer attendees fresh-brewed coffee.A table set with black dinnerware framing smiling photos remembers students, one her son, who passed away during Ronna’s tenure as art teacher. Beloved faces and names below photos trigger frantic searches for tissues.Art students following Emily Post’s Etiquette guidelines elegantly set hundreds of places on tables arranged through the room’s center. South of the tables, artful décor highlights a podium and reveals the music teacher who plays piano all evening.Elementary school art fills displays and tables near the west wall. Viewers see skill transitions from beginner to accomplished artist as they examine art produced by kindergarteners to 12th graders.To support their artists, local families and businesses donated silent auction items including gift certificates, art, food items, and more. Contenders good-naturedly battled to stay on top of their bids. Despite Ronna’s retirement, the art department will go on.Students, following upscale restaurant protocols, served dinner. One server ground fresh parmesan over salads. Brownie sundaes followed roast beef, potatoes, green beans, rolls, and salads. No one left hungry. Student-servers conscientiously poured water and tea over guests’ right shoulders. Obviously, they learned more than art as they put this evening together for families and community.Following entertainment provided by forensic team members, Ronna honored her students and identified those who won regional and national awards. Several have work hanging in Congressional Offices in Washington D.C. and Kansas.As she transitions into the next season of her life, Ronna obviously expects Wheatland School Art programs to continue. Heading home into a pastel Kansas sky painted by a master artist fittingly ended this unexpected surprise.

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

While I deal specifically with the 4-H side of the Barton County Fair, there are lots of ways for you to be involved!

The theme for the Barton County Fair is Blue Jeans and Big Dreams and it will be happening June 26th-30th. Exhibits are due to the fairgrounds for most categories on Wednesday, June 26th. Our 4-H members must pre-enter their exhibits while Open Class entries can be entered online ahead of time or on-site on the 26th.

Judging is handled a bit differently for 4-H and Open Class. Consultative judging is used to provide one-on-one feedback about project learning and the exhibit as an important part of the learning opportunity for the 4-H member and all members receive a ribbon on their entry. We use the Danish system for 4-H exhibits which defines a Purple as exemplary, a Blue as above average, a Red as average, and a White as having substantial deficiencies. For Open Class, the judge will evaluate the exhibit item and determine if it receives one of the top three placings awarded per class.

Each year, the Barton County Fair Association has several special award categories for Open Class which tie to the theme. Be on the lookout for the announcements about these and all Open Class opportunities. Open Class offers a youth (16 and younger), Adult (17-65), Senior (65 and better), and a Professional class for those who teach about or make a practice of selling their work.

Entries aren’t open just yet for 4-H or Open Class but keep an eye on bartoncountyfair.com for updates, schedules, and entry information.

Come join us June 26th through 30th to watch the livestock shows, check out the 4-H and Open Class exhibits, listen to a concert, share a meal with friends, support all ages across our community as they showcase their interests from horticulture to horses!

We look forward to seeing your entry for Blue Jeans and Big Dreams!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictWhile I deal specifically with the 4-H side of the Barton County Fair, there are lots of ways for you to be involved!The theme for the Barton County Fair is Blue Jeans and Big Dreams and it will be happening June 26th-30th. Exhibits are due to the fairgrounds for most categories on Wednesday, June 26th. Our 4-H members must pre-enter their exhibits while Open Class entries can be entered online ahead of time or on-site on the 26th.Judging is handled a bit differently for 4-H and Open Class. Consultative judging is used to provide one-on-one feedback about project learning and the exhibit as an important part of the learning opportunity for the 4-H member and all members receive a ribbon on their entry. We use the Danish system for 4-H exhibits which defines a Purple as exemplary, a Blue as above average, a Red as average, and a White as having substantial deficiencies. For Open Class, the judge will evaluate the exhibit item and determine if it receives one of the top three placings awarded per class.Each year, the Barton County Fair Association has several special award categories for Open Class which tie to the theme. Be on the lookout for the announcements about these and all Open Class opportunities. Open Class offers a youth (16 and younger), Adult (17-65), Senior (65 and better), and a Professional class for those who teach about or make a practice of selling their work.Entries aren’t open just yet for 4-H or Open Class but keep an eye on bartoncountyfair.com for updates, schedules, and entry information.Come join us June 26th through 30th to watch the livestock shows, check out the 4-H and Open Class exhibits, listen to a concert, share a meal with friends, support all ages across our community as they showcase their interests from horticulture to horses!We look forward to seeing your entry for Blue Jeans and Big Dreams!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 'Blue Jeans, Big Dreams': Barton County Fair

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Nobody ever expects to be a victim of a natural disaster.

However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that since 1980, the United States has sustained 355 weather and climate disasters at an average expense of $57.8 billion per year.

Unfortunately, we can’t change the weather, but we can keep ourselves safe and prepare for disaster.

Kansas State University Family Resource Management Specialist, Elizabeth Kiss, shares more:

“One of the best things to do is to start or add to what’s called a ‘Grab and Go’ box,” Kiss says. “If bad weather is approaching…and you need to evacuate your house, just take the box with you and go, and you’ll have the things you need to recover from any eventual loss.”

Items that should be stored in a Grab and Go box, according to Kiss, include originals or paper copies of such items as:

· Insurance policies, particularly property insurance.

Then, consider some personal items such as photos, letters and various keepsakes, and even a small amount of money. The box should be waterproof and/or fireproof, Kiss said.

“We have become very dependent on things being online, but depending on the severity of any sort of emergency, we may be able to recover faster with paper copies,” Kiss said. “We just don’t know.”

Preparing a household inventory and building a Grab and Go box may seem daunting, but Kiss says it begins by doing just a little bit at a time.

“In terms of the household inventory, we recommend starting with one room, or even one part of a room at a time,” she said.

“Something is better than nothing. You can even videotape documents with your phone these days, or take pictures…that’s a start. You do need to have some documentation about when things were purchased and what their value was, but video or pictures is a start. Then be sure you take your documentation from your phone and store it in a way electronically that you can access it if something were to happen to your phone.”

Kiss also suggests talking with insurance agents to make sure you’re adequately covered for loss to the home and personal property; and consider storing copies of your important documents off-site – such as in the home of a trusted friend or relative.

“Much of the Grab N Go Box is records that you would be keeping anyway,” Kiss said. “It’s a form of record keeping, and it’s just being proactive to have it in one place in case of an emergency.”

More information on preparing important documents ahead of disaster is available in the K-State Research and Extension publication, Get Financially Prepared: Take Steps Ahead of Disaster.

Information is also available online from K-State Research and Extension, and from the U.S. government website, https://www.ready.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNobody ever expects to be a victim of a natural disaster.However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that since 1980, the United States has sustained 355 weather and climate disasters at an average expense of $57.8 billion per year.Unfortunately, we can’t change the weather, but we can keep ourselves safe and prepare for disaster.Kansas State University Family Resource Management Specialist, Elizabeth Kiss, shares more:“One of the best things to do is to start or add to what’s called a ‘Grab and Go’ box,” Kiss says. “If bad weather is approaching…and you need to evacuate your house, just take the box with you and go, and you’ll have the things you need to recover from any eventual loss.”Items that should be stored in a Grab and Go box, according to Kiss, include originals or paper copies of such items as:· Birth certificates.· Social security cards.· Marriage certificates.· Passports· Driver’s license.· Credit cards.· Titles for vehicles.· Insurance policies, particularly property insurance.· Household inventoryThen, consider some personal items such as photos, letters and various keepsakes, and even a small amount of money. The box should be waterproof and/or fireproof, Kiss said.“We have become very dependent on things being online, but depending on the severity of any sort of emergency, we may be able to recover faster with paper copies,” Kiss said. “We just don’t know.”Preparing a household inventory and building a Grab and Go box may seem daunting, but Kiss says it begins by doing just a little bit at a time.“In terms of the household inventory, we recommend starting with one room, or even one part of a room at a time,” she said.“Something is better than nothing. You can even videotape documents with your phone these days, or take pictures…that’s a start. You do need to have some documentation about when things were purchased and what their value was, but video or pictures is a start. Then be sure you take your documentation from your phone and store it in a way electronically that you can access it if something were to happen to your phone.”Kiss also suggests talking with insurance agents to make sure you’re adequately covered for loss to the home and personal property; and consider storing copies of your important documents off-site – such as in the home of a trusted friend or relative.“Much of the Grab N Go Box is records that you would be keeping anyway,” Kiss said. “It’s a form of record keeping, and it’s just being proactive to have it in one place in case of an emergency.”More information on preparing important documents ahead of disaster is available in the K-State Research and Extension publication, Get Financially Prepared: Take Steps Ahead of Disaster.Information is also available online from K-State Research and Extension, and from the U.S. government website, https://www.ready.gov.###Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Grab ‘N Go, be prepared for severe weather

Cats of any description are fierce, efficient hunters, and feral cats, all-the-more. They do untold damage to pheasant and quail populations and kill large numbers of songbirds. By feral cats I mean cats that live totally in the wild and possibly haven’t had a domestic relative for years or even generations; NOT “Fluffy” next door that rolls around at your feet and plays hide and seek with you from a paper sack.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsCats of any description are fierce, efficient hunters, and feral cats, all-the-more. They do untold damage to pheasant and quail populations and kill large numbers of songbirds. By feral cats I mean cats that live totally in the wild and possibly haven’t had a domestic relative for years or even generations; NOT “Fluffy” next door that rolls around at your feet and plays hide and seek with you from a paper sack.Feral cats have become so overpopulated in some states that over the years, hunting seasons have actually been proposed for them. Heck, when we were kids, we called feral cats RT’s, short for Running Targets. But I think I have some good ideas to actually utilize feral cats in today’s topsy-turvey society. For starters, and in light of all the recent “protests” at our nation’s colleges, how about using them for crowd control. Rioting crowds would probably react badly to snarling German Shepherds, which will soon be history anyway since the K-9 police units will probably be washed down the drain with the rest of law enforcement officers by those claiming animal cruelty. But who’s gonna’ notice a few fluffy cats rubbing against everyone’s legs. Really long-haired ones rolled in some sort of fairy-dust sleeping potion and turned loose to spread it through the crowd could have the “demonstrators” simply falling asleep where they stand. All that’s needed is to pile everyone against the curbs and traffic is restored; no buildings burned, no one shot, no historic statues that have stood there for generations torn down, and just look at the money saved on tear gas. Hopefully when the protestors all awake to see how pathetic they look on the evening news, they’ll just slink off into the shadows and be too ashamed to try it again.Since it appears many 911 calls could soon be answered by only mental health professionals of some description who will undoubtedly be unarmed except for a clipboard and some colored markers, a few of the nastiest, old hag, feral cats can be trained to go with them when they enter whatever the new nations within our cities will call themselves by then. They can be carried in small cat size carriers or with those nifty little harnesses with a handle so they can be carted around like a lunch box. “A cat against a crowd of demonstrators?” you’re thinking. Remember,these “demonstrators” that want the world to believe they are the toughest things since Dirty Harry are mostly snowflakes and tree huggers; they’ll urge violence against law enforcement officers and burn cities, but they won’t harm a cat. And if one does get out-of-line, that old hag, feral cat will lay them open like a fish with a couple lightning quick swipes of a paw; pretty good protection I’d say.Those new nations set-up within our cities will probably become overrun with rodents, since none of the snowflakes or tree huggers would ever think of killing a mouse or rat. Heck, I have already read a report claiming someone released rats into one of the college “encampments.” Those rodents would soon spread out into the rest of the city, so a crew of feral cats released there could soon take care of the issue. Besides, the only food our feline mousers would be offered by residents there would probably only be vegan.Well, there you have just a few examples of innovative ways to repurpose feral cats for today’s topsy-turvey world. I see it as a win-win-deal; a few feral cats are taken out of the wild, pet lovers are happy cause’ they weren’t killed and we hunters reap the benefits… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

In November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.

The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.

This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.

In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasIn November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects caused by lead exposure.Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita; an estimated 158,000 lead pipes are still in place across the state. These pipes carry potentially toxic water into our homes, businesses, and schools.However, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced wonderful news this week for Kansas. The agency has allocated $28.6 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill to continue replacing our state’s lead water pipes.This $28.6 million won’t replace all the remaining lead pipes in Kansas, but it will make a decent dent.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that no amount of lead exposure is safe, so any amount of reduction in lead pipes is a win for Kansas’ kidsThe EPA’s goal is to replace all remaining lead pipes nationwide by 2033.As I stated in that previous column: if the past four years have shown us anything it’s that health crises are public problems and therefore require public solutions.In these four years we have also learned that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.The 2021 bill that is providing the funding for the EPA to replace our state’s lead pipes was passed with bipartisan support. However, only Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas’ Third Congressional District voted in support of the bill; the other five members of Kansas’ congressional delegation voted opposed.It’s very unlikely that the Republican members of our congressional delegation were specifically opposed to the funds earmarked for lead pipe replacement.However, as I wrote over two years ago, government’s ability to protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice is reliant on their willingness to use their governing power preventatively.A lead crisis, like the one in Flint, Michigan, would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of lead exposure is safe.The $28.6 million in federal infrastructure funds is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids. Additional allocations in future infrastructure bills could get us even closer to this goal.With the current funding allocations for lead pipe replacement, the federal government strides towards safeguarding Kansas’ children from lead exposure. While not a complete solution, it signifies progress in a crucial battle for public health. As we continue this fight, let’s remember: every step counts in securing a safer future for our kids.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

Opinion