By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

A recent whirlwind trip took me to both Gettysburg and Washington, DC in the same week. Both sites were good places to reflect on people, politics and the ideals that guide our actions.

There is something profound about visiting the battlefields of Gettysburg. It is hallowed ground, full of sacrifice. The site of a battle fought by a nation divided. Brothers and friends fought against each other.

Three years after the gruesome battle, while the Civil War still raged on in the South, Abraham Lincoln visited and gave his famous Gettysburg Address. In it, he did not gloat over his troops’ victory or demean the southern soldiers who fell short in their attempts. Instead, he recognized all men who fought for ideals of deep personal significance.

Another day I stood looking toward the U.S. Capitol from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I have a dream…” speech.&nbsp; A line from the speech came to mind, “let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.”

That is where we are; once again divided. This time it is not by geography but by party lines. Our highest officials are constantly posturing for ways to snub each other, and people are criticized for whom they sit by at a baseball game. Bitterness and hatred ring out — reverberated from sea to shining sea on every device or media through news outlets and social networks.&nbsp;

Agriculture seems to be one of the few places where politicians can still reach across the aisle and work for the good of the country. Even that is in danger as old school politicians, who have experienced the fruits of collaboration and bipartisan work, reach retirement.

When did our society lose interest in the common good? Have we become so egotistical and spoiled we believe in the all or nothing mentality, where you are either with us or against us — and if you are against us, you are my enemy?

It does not have to be that way. We have the ability to do as King suggested in his speech and struggle for freedom “on the high plain of dignity and discipline.”

My dream for our country is that we would rededicate ourselves to the ideal of being a nation that is indivisible. A nation full of people who choose to practice civility and extend respect to all around them, where a person can be open to views that do not conform to party line and strive to create compromises for the good of all people.

It is time for us to hold ourselves to the highest standards of civility and seek out friendships with those who challenge our mindset. Move away from doing what is comfortable to the difficult that will make a difference in the world. Value those who think critically and speak with reason to their position. Refuse to be defined by ideas that do not fit your beliefs. And if your idea does not prevail, do not hold bitterness or contempt in your heart instead practice grace and humility.

We live in a divisive time, but I have faith that our nation’s commitment to pursuing freedom and liberty is strong enough overcome the differences at hand.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherA recent whirlwind trip took me to both Gettysburg and Washington, DC in the same week. Both sites were good places to reflect on people, politics and the ideals that guide our actions.There is something profound about visiting the battlefields of Gettysburg. It is hallowed ground, full of sacrifice. The site of a battle fought by a nation divided. Brothers and friends fought against each other.Three years after the gruesome battle, while the Civil War still raged on in the South, Abraham Lincoln visited and gave his famous Gettysburg Address. In it, he did not gloat over his troops’ victory or demean the southern soldiers who fell short in their attempts. Instead, he recognized all men who fought for ideals of deep personal significance.Another day I stood looking toward the U.S. Capitol from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I have a dream…” speech.&nbsp; A line from the speech came to mind, “let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.”That is where we are; once again divided. This time it is not by geography but by party lines. Our highest officials are constantly posturing for ways to snub each other, and people are criticized for whom they sit by at a baseball game. Bitterness and hatred ring out — reverberated from sea to shining sea on every device or media through news outlets and social networks.&nbsp;Agriculture seems to be one of the few places where politicians can still reach across the aisle and work for the good of the country. Even that is in danger as old school politicians, who have experienced the fruits of collaboration and bipartisan work, reach retirement.When did our society lose interest in the common good? Have we become so egotistical and spoiled we believe in the all or nothing mentality, where you are either with us or against us — and if you are against us, you are my enemy?It does not have to be that way. We have the ability to do as King suggested in his speech and struggle for freedom “on the high plain of dignity and discipline.”My dream for our country is that we would rededicate ourselves to the ideal of being a nation that is indivisible. A nation full of people who choose to practice civility and extend respect to all around them, where a person can be open to views that do not conform to party line and strive to create compromises for the good of all people.It is time for us to hold ourselves to the highest standards of civility and seek out friendships with those who challenge our mindset. Move away from doing what is comfortable to the difficult that will make a difference in the world. Value those who think critically and speak with reason to their position. Refuse to be defined by ideas that do not fit your beliefs. And if your idea does not prevail, do not hold bitterness or contempt in your heart instead practice grace and humility.We live in a divisive time, but I have faith that our nation’s commitment to pursuing freedom and liberty is strong enough overcome the differences at hand."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kan. Farm Bureau Insight: In pursuit of dignity and discipline

MANHATTAN – Get your walking shoes ready! Walk Kansas 2020 is just around the corner.

The
 popular K-State Research and Extension program that encourages physical
 activity and healthy eating, runs March 15 through May 9.

Participants can sign up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;starting Feb. 18 or through their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.
 The cost to participate is $10 per person, which includes access to the
 online tracker, a weekly newsletter with tips and recipes, program 
resources, and local activities. Walk Kansas t-shirts are available for 
an additional $9.50.

“With spring getting closer by the day, this 
is a great way to make a promise to yourself to be more active and to 
make lifestyle choices that support healthy living,” said Sharolyn 
Jackson, K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science 
specialist and Walk Kansas coordinator. “Plus it’s fun to support 
friends, family, neighbors or co-workers – anyone who makes up your 
team.”

Participants form teams of six, with one serving as a team 
captain. Team members record their own activity online each week. 
Participants do not have to walk or participate in other types of 
activity together, or even live in Kansas. Many teams form with family 
members or friends in other parts of the state or country. Teams connect
 through technology.

While physical activity is at the heart of 
Walk Kansas, the program will have a couple of new twists this year, 
Jackson said. One focuses on the Mediterranean style of eating.

“Eating
 the Med way is not about flavors,” Jackson said. “It is about eating 
lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, eating more beans 
and legumes, reducing added sugars, using olive and canola oil, and 
more.”

The second twist centers on introducing participants to 
nine shared lifestyle traits of the Blue Zones, places around the world 
where people are known to live measurably longer and healthier lives. 
These traits, and ways to incorporate them into your life, will be 
introduced during the eight week program.

“Your health is so much more than a number on the scale,” Jackson said.

More information and registration (starting Feb. 18) for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">Walk Kansas</a>&nbsp;is available online or through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581691532213.jpeg" alt="A previous Walk Kansas team from Sedgwick County. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>A previous Walk Kansas team from Sedgwick County. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – Get your walking shoes ready! Walk Kansas 2020 is just around the corner.The
 popular K-State Research and Extension program that encourages physical
 activity and healthy eating, runs March 15 through May 9.Participants can sign up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;starting Feb. 18 or through their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.
 The cost to participate is $10 per person, which includes access to the
 online tracker, a weekly newsletter with tips and recipes, program 
resources, and local activities. Walk Kansas t-shirts are available for 
an additional $9.50.“With spring getting closer by the day, this 
is a great way to make a promise to yourself to be more active and to 
make lifestyle choices that support healthy living,” said Sharolyn 
Jackson, K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science 
specialist and Walk Kansas coordinator. “Plus it’s fun to support 
friends, family, neighbors or co-workers – anyone who makes up your 
team.”Participants form teams of six, with one serving as a team 
captain. Team members record their own activity online each week. 
Participants do not have to walk or participate in other types of 
activity together, or even live in Kansas. Many teams form with family 
members or friends in other parts of the state or country. Teams connect
 through technology.While physical activity is at the heart of 
Walk Kansas, the program will have a couple of new twists this year, 
Jackson said. One focuses on the Mediterranean style of eating.“Eating
 the Med way is not about flavors,” Jackson said. “It is about eating 
lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, eating more beans 
and legumes, reducing added sugars, using olive and canola oil, and 
more.”The second twist centers on introducing participants to 
nine shared lifestyle traits of the Blue Zones, places around the world 
where people are known to live measurably longer and healthier lives. 
These traits, and ways to incorporate them into your life, will be 
introduced during the eight week program.“Your health is so much more than a number on the scale,” Jackson said.More information and registration (starting Feb. 18) for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walkkansas.org/" target="_blank">Walk Kansas</a>&nbsp;is available online or through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Walk Kansas 2020 starts March 15

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582062877065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

BY GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

This past week, I was lucky enough to be allowed to attend the Young Farmers and Ranchers Leaders Conference in Manhattan. I say lucky enough because I have come to grips with the realization that I am no longer a young farmer or rancher. I guess it is the gray in my beard or maybe the fact that I have children who attend the conference on their own. Either way I am allowed to attend but not qualified.

The YF&amp;R program is something that is near and dear to my heart. It was where Jennifer and I got our first taste of Kansas Farm Bureau and saw the power and importance of not just being a member but being involved. It was where we learned that while attending was a sacrifice, what we got back was more than worth the time invested.

I must admit my motivation for attending the conference is somewhat selfish. Yes, there are many great workshops, and I always come away with great information and ideas, but the workshops are not the most important thing. The conference also has some of the most incredible speakers, and often they are very motivational. While I need as much motivation as possible, and I enjoy a great speaker, that is not my number-one reason for attending.

No, my greatest motivation for attending is to soak up the energy and excitement that comes with being in a room with nearly 600 of the best and brightest in agriculture in Kansas. The passion that comes from the young farmers and ranchers in Kansas Farm Bureau is incredible. They are the newest and best trained professionals in our business and excited about the future.

If you have ever been worried about the future of agriculture, you have never attended this conference. It is so infectious, even an old guy like me can catch it. I must admit I learn a lot from this group, and my energy and enthusiasm levels are through the roof after this weekend.

It is refreshing to see the way new technology and ideas are embraced and considered. Again, I must admit as an old guy I am envious of how easily they adapt to the ever-changing landscape of agriculture. Often skeptics wonder how we are going to meet the challenge of feeding a growing world population. Spend the weekend at the YF&amp;R Conference and it will be apparent.

Optimism and enthusiasm are infectious, and after this weekend I have caught it. I must admit that this conference makes me a little jealous — if only I could find the fountain of youth and start all over again. I guess in a way I did find that fountain of youth at the conference; just being there made me feel young again. OK, maybe that is overstating it, but I am grateful they allowed this old-young farmer to tag along.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574091484634.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherThis past week, I was lucky enough to be allowed to attend the Young Farmers and Ranchers Leaders Conference in Manhattan. I say lucky enough because I have come to grips with the realization that I am no longer a young farmer or rancher. I guess it is the gray in my beard or maybe the fact that I have children who attend the conference on their own. Either way I am allowed to attend but not qualified.The YF&amp;R program is something that is near and dear to my heart. It was where Jennifer and I got our first taste of Kansas Farm Bureau and saw the power and importance of not just being a member but being involved. It was where we learned that while attending was a sacrifice, what we got back was more than worth the time invested.I must admit my motivation for attending the conference is somewhat selfish. Yes, there are many great workshops, and I always come away with great information and ideas, but the workshops are not the most important thing. The conference also has some of the most incredible speakers, and often they are very motivational. While I need as much motivation as possible, and I enjoy a great speaker, that is not my number-one reason for attending.No, my greatest motivation for attending is to soak up the energy and excitement that comes with being in a room with nearly 600 of the best and brightest in agriculture in Kansas. The passion that comes from the young farmers and ranchers in Kansas Farm Bureau is incredible. They are the newest and best trained professionals in our business and excited about the future.If you have ever been worried about the future of agriculture, you have never attended this conference. It is so infectious, even an old guy like me can catch it. I must admit I learn a lot from this group, and my energy and enthusiasm levels are through the roof after this weekend.It is refreshing to see the way new technology and ideas are embraced and considered. Again, I must admit as an old guy I am envious of how easily they adapt to the ever-changing landscape of agriculture. Often skeptics wonder how we are going to meet the challenge of feeding a growing world population. Spend the weekend at the YF&amp;R Conference and it will be apparent.Optimism and enthusiasm are infectious, and after this weekend I have caught it. I must admit that this conference makes me a little jealous — if only I could find the fountain of youth and start all over again. I guess in a way I did find that fountain of youth at the conference; just being there made me feel young again. OK, maybe that is overstating it, but I am grateful they allowed this old-young farmer to tag along."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Young at heart

Three Asian countries are promising economic stimulus to offset the impact of the coronavirus. Bloomberg reports the move by China, Hong Kong and Singapore could buoy crude-oil demand. Beijing could even go so far as to lower corporate taxes. Worries about the economic impact of the virus waned last week, and crude prices recovered more than five percent, the biggest gain since September.&nbsp;

Kansas Comnon crude at CHS in McPherson gained 50 cents on Friday to start the week at $42.25 per barrel. That's nearly two dollars higher than a week ago, but is down more than two dollars from last year at this time.

The Kansas Geological Survey reports last year's total statewide crude-oil production through October reached 27.7 million barrels. Barton County pumped 133,000 barrels, bringing the total through October to 1.35 million barrels. Ellis County operators added 209,000 in October, bringing the total to 2.1 million barrels. Russell County operators produced over 124,000 barrels for the month, for a running total of 1.25 million barrels. Stafford County checked in with nearly 91,000 barrels (862,000 year-to-date).

The statewide rig count in Kansas was down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 active rigs in Western Kansas, down one, and six east of Wichita, which is unchanged from last week. Drilling is underway on one lease in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reports 790 active drilling rigs across the U.S., an increase of two oil rigs. The count in Texas was up three and New Mexico was up one.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 16 new well completions for the week, 162 so far this year. There were six in eastern Kansas and ten west of Wichita, including one newly-completed well in Stafford County.

Kansas regulators posted eight new drilling permits last week, two east of Wichita and six out west. There are 85 new drilling permits so far this year.

U.S. operators set another weekly crude-production record last week. The government reports total production for the week ending February 7 of 12.987 million barrels per day. That's up 102,000 barrels per day from the week before.

The Energy Information Administration reported U.S. crude inventories of 442.5 million barrels, an increase of seven and a half million barrels. Stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. The government report on Wednesday marked a slightly higher increase than the American Petroleum Institute's estimate the day before.

EIA says U.S. crude oil imports averaged 7.0 million barrels per day last week, up by 363,000 barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged about 6.7 million barrels per day, 6.8% less than the same four-week period last year.

Oil by rail in the U.S. is up two-tenths of one percent from levels reported during last year's spike. The Association of American Railroads says the spike in Canada continues, increasing more than 72 percent from year-ago levels.

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia will start trial oil production from their jointly-operated oilfields in what has become known as the "Neutral Zone" between the two countries. Kuwait’s oil minister said trial production from the two fields will increase gradually till it reaches its normal levels, and expects production from the fields to reach 550,000 barrels per day before the end of the year. Production from the zone is divided between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The two countries agreed last year to end a five-year dispute over the border area, allowing production to resume.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574099516454.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARThree Asian countries are promising economic stimulus to offset the impact of the coronavirus. Bloomberg reports the move by China, Hong Kong and Singapore could buoy crude-oil demand. Beijing could even go so far as to lower corporate taxes. Worries about the economic impact of the virus waned last week, and crude prices recovered more than five percent, the biggest gain since September.&nbsp;Kansas Comnon crude at CHS in McPherson gained 50 cents on Friday to start the week at $42.25 per barrel. That's nearly two dollars higher than a week ago, but is down more than two dollars from last year at this time.The Kansas Geological Survey reports last year's total statewide crude-oil production through October reached 27.7 million barrels. Barton County pumped 133,000 barrels, bringing the total through October to 1.35 million barrels. Ellis County operators added 209,000 in October, bringing the total to 2.1 million barrels. Russell County operators produced over 124,000 barrels for the month, for a running total of 1.25 million barrels. Stafford County checked in with nearly 91,000 barrels (862,000 year-to-date).The statewide rig count in Kansas was down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 active rigs in Western Kansas, down one, and six east of Wichita, which is unchanged from last week. Drilling is underway on one lease in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reports 790 active drilling rigs across the U.S., an increase of two oil rigs. The count in Texas was up three and New Mexico was up one.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 16 new well completions for the week, 162 so far this year. There were six in eastern Kansas and ten west of Wichita, including one newly-completed well in Stafford County.Kansas regulators posted eight new drilling permits last week, two east of Wichita and six out west. There are 85 new drilling permits so far this year.U.S. operators set another weekly crude-production record last week. The government reports total production for the week ending February 7 of 12.987 million barrels per day. That's up 102,000 barrels per day from the week before.The Energy Information Administration reported U.S. crude inventories of 442.5 million barrels, an increase of seven and a half million barrels. Stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. The government report on Wednesday marked a slightly higher increase than the American Petroleum Institute's estimate the day before.EIA says U.S. crude oil imports averaged 7.0 million barrels per day last week, up by 363,000 barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged about 6.7 million barrels per day, 6.8% less than the same four-week period last year.Oil by rail in the U.S. is up two-tenths of one percent from levels reported during last year's spike. The Association of American Railroads says the spike in Canada continues, increasing more than 72 percent from year-ago levels.Kuwait and Saudi Arabia will start trial oil production from their jointly-operated oilfields in what has become known as the "Neutral Zone" between the two countries. Kuwait’s oil minister said trial production from the two fields will increase gradually till it reaches its normal levels, and expects production from the fields to reach 550,000 barrels per day before the end of the year. Production from the zone is divided between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The two countries agreed last year to end a five-year dispute over the border area, allowing production to resume.&nbsp; &nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch, Feb. 17

On February 13, 2020, the Senate Agricutlural and Natural Resources Committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 308, which would change regulations regarding the sale and advertisement of raw milk products in Kansas. The hearing itself had considerable testimony from those either for or against the bill. 

One change in the proposed law is the sale of raw milk, which would allow producers of raw milk to advertise it from beyond the premises of dairy farms, where current state law allows for advertisement only on the premises of dairy farms.  

The other major change is the labeling of raw milk, which would add language to the containers of raw milk or raw milk products sold in Kansas.  This change would require a disclaimer regarding health concerns over raw milk consumption. Additionally, the bill would require that the font of the disclaimer be the same size, or greater, than other language on the container of for raw milk. 

Proponent testimony regarding the bill was provided by the Kansas Livestock Association, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Department of Agriculture, and other groups. Their testimony focused mostly on health concerns of raw milk consumption and on the need for labeling and advertising regulations that would protect consumers from the risks of cosuming raw milk. 

Opponent testimony to the bill was provided by the Kansas Justice Institute, Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, and a number of Kansas dairy operators. Their testimony aimed at countering the health concerns of raw milk consumption.  They also voiced concerns that labeling regulations in the law would be onerous to dairy operators, both economically and to their first amendment rights. 

The question of meat and alternative meat products has reached the point of legislation in the Kansas Legislature. House bill 2437 was recommended out of the House Ag Committee to the House Floor last week. The proposed legislation concerns the labeling of alternative meat products. 

Under the proposed legislation new definitions would be added to the Kansas legal code, like “meat analog”, meaning any food that approximates the aesthetic qualities or chemical characteristic of any specific meat type or product but does contain any meat or meat products, and “identifiable meat term”, which would include all meat items from beef to goat to roast to wings. The bill would also require a disclaimer for meat analog products sold in stores that lacked a disclaimer, otherwise they would be misbranded under Kansas law.  

This Monday, February 10, the House Appropriations Committee began the budgeting process by having the budget chairmen report the recommendations for their respective budgets. 

Throughout the week, we heard and deliberated on the budgets and then made our amendments or changes to be included in the final budgets for 2020 and 2021.  Some of the budgets that we had reported were:  Kansas Historical Society, Insurance Department, State Library, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Sentencing Commission, Kansas Highway Patrol, Board of Cosmetology, Kansas Neurological Institute, the budgets for all of the state hospitals, and numerous more. 

The committee also held bill hearings on new legislation that has been introduced this legislative session. 

The first bill that had a hearing on is House Bill 2548, which are claims against the state of Kansas.  The next three bills all referenced the Kansas Corporate Commission to combine two funds regarding abandoned oil wells in the state of Kansas. 

We also held a hearing on the Executive Reorganization, as mentioned in last week’s newsletter, that will rename the Kansas Department of Children and Families to the Kansas Department of Human Services. 

Reciprocal Licensing for Military Service Members and Spouses

The House Committee on Commerce, Labor and Economic Development held a hearing Thursday on House Bill 2506, which would allow military service members and their spouses to apply for and receive an occupational or professional license in Kansas if they currently hold a license in another state.  If they have already received the training and qualifications to practice a specific profession in another state, this bill would allow them to receive that same license here in Kansas.  This includes all Kansas regulated professions such as accountants, cosmetologists, realtors, pharmacists, and several other professions, but does not include the law profession. 

If an individual received a license in another state which had fewer or lesser requirements for a professional license and should they seek an equivalent license in Kansas, that individual would still be required to make up the difference in order to meet the Kansas requirements. Individuals who have established or plans to establish residency in Kansas may apply for an equivalent license in Kansas as well.   

Like many other states, Kansas is enjoying a relatively low unemployment rate. However, also like other states across the country, Kansas needs more qualified workers. The legislation is modeled after an Arizona law signed by Gov. Doug Ducey in April 2019, and has been widely promoted by President Trump. 

Proponents of the bill asserted it will ease the transition of military service member and their spouses, increasing the pool of qualified workers to fill job openings in communities across the state and will eliminate governmental licensing barriers costs and regulations. Opponents argued&nbsp;that the language is too broad and would create administrative hurdles for the regulatory agencies.

This legislation will help ease the transition of our military servicemembers and their spouses, should they have a technical or professional license.  If they have received the proper training and licensure to practice their profession, they are work-ready and able to contribute to the Kansas economy.  President Trump has widely promoted this legislation in effort to reduce work-related barriers. 

Anytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at #waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.  Also, if you happen to visit the statehouse, please let my office know.  

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions.  I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581438801245.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. " />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. </figcaption>
 </figure>Tax Modernization Report On February 13, 2020, the Senate Agricutlural and Natural Resources Committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 308, which would change regulations regarding the sale and advertisement of raw milk products in Kansas. The hearing itself had considerable testimony from those either for or against the bill. One change in the proposed law is the sale of raw milk, which would allow producers of raw milk to advertise it from beyond the premises of dairy farms, where current state law allows for advertisement only on the premises of dairy farms. The other major change is the labeling of raw milk, which would add language to the containers of raw milk or raw milk products sold in Kansas. This change would require a disclaimer regarding health concerns over raw milk consumption. Additionally, the bill would require that the font of the disclaimer be the same size, or greater, than other language on the container of for raw milk. Proponent testimony regarding the bill was provided by the Kansas Livestock Association, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Department of Agriculture, and other groups. Their testimony focused mostly on health concerns of raw milk consumption and on the need for labeling and advertising regulations that would protect consumers from the risks of cosuming raw milk. Opponent testimony to the bill was provided by the Kansas Justice Institute, Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, and a number of Kansas dairy operators. Their testimony aimed at countering the health concerns of raw milk consumption. They also voiced concerns that labeling regulations in the law would be onerous to dairy operators, both economically and to their first amendment rights. Where’s the Beef The question of meat and alternative meat products has reached the point of legislation in the Kansas Legislature. House bill 2437 was recommended out of the House Ag Committee to the House Floor last week. The proposed legislation concerns the labeling of alternative meat products. Under the proposed legislation new definitions would be added to the Kansas legal code, like “meat analog”, meaning any food that approximates the aesthetic qualities or chemical characteristic of any specific meat type or product but does contain any meat or meat products, and “identifiable meat term”, which would include all meat items from beef to goat to roast to wings. The bill would also require a disclaimer for meat analog products sold in stores that lacked a disclaimer, otherwise they would be misbranded under Kansas law. This Week In Appropriations This Monday, February 10, the House Appropriations Committee began the budgeting process by having the budget chairmen report the recommendations for their respective budgets. Throughout the week, we heard and deliberated on the budgets and then made our amendments or changes to be included in the final budgets for 2020 and 2021. Some of the budgets that we had reported were: Kansas Historical Society, Insurance Department, State Library, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Sentencing Commission, Kansas Highway Patrol, Board of Cosmetology, Kansas Neurological Institute, the budgets for all of the state hospitals, and numerous more. The committee also held bill hearings on new legislation that has been introduced this legislative session. The first bill that had a hearing on is House Bill 2548, which are claims against the state of Kansas. The next three bills all referenced the Kansas Corporate Commission to combine two funds regarding abandoned oil wells in the state of Kansas. We also held a hearing on the Executive Reorganization, as mentioned in last week’s newsletter, that will rename the Kansas Department of Children and Families to the Kansas Department of Human Services. Reciprocal Licensing for Military Service Members and Spouses The House Committee on Commerce, Labor and Economic Development held a hearing Thursday on House Bill 2506, which would allow military service members and their spouses to apply for and receive an occupational or professional license in Kansas if they currently hold a license in another state. If they have already received the training and qualifications to practice a specific profession in another state, this bill would allow them to receive that same license here in Kansas. This includes all Kansas regulated professions such as accountants, cosmetologists, realtors, pharmacists, and several other professions, but does not include the law profession. If an individual received a license in another state which had fewer or lesser requirements for a professional license and should they seek an equivalent license in Kansas, that individual would still be required to make up the difference in order to meet the Kansas requirements. Individuals who have established or plans to establish residency in Kansas may apply for an equivalent license in Kansas as well. Like many other states, Kansas is enjoying a relatively low unemployment rate. However, also like other states across the country, Kansas needs more qualified workers. The legislation is modeled after an Arizona law signed by Gov. Doug Ducey in April 2019, and has been widely promoted by President Trump. Proponents of the bill asserted it will ease the transition of military service member and their spouses, increasing the pool of qualified workers to fill job openings in communities across the state and will eliminate governmental licensing barriers costs and regulations. Opponents argued&nbsp;that the language is too broad and would create administrative hurdles for the regulatory agencies.This legislation will help ease the transition of our military servicemembers and their spouses, should they have a technical or professional license. If they have received the proper training and licensure to practice their profession, they are work-ready and able to contribute to the Kansas economy. President Trump has widely promoted this legislation in effort to reduce work-related barriers. Contact Information Anytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>. As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at #waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Also, if you happen to visit the statehouse, please let my office know. It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home Feb. 18

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

RUSSELL — Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation recently welcomed 
17-year-old Jaide Lawson, Russell, into their fold.&nbsp; Jaide was diagnosed
 with Ewing Sarcoma in November of 2019. Ewing Sarcoma&nbsp;is a cancerous 
tumor that grows in the bones or in the tissue around bones (soft 
tissue).&nbsp;She is the daughter of Amy Lawson Sievert and Brenton Sievert, 
Russell, and is being treated at Chidlren's Mercy Hospital in Kansas 
City.

A senior at Russell High School, Jaide enjoys music and art 
and is a fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Green Bay Packers. She 
hopes to pursue a career as an artist. She has three younger brothers, 
Aiden, 15, Otto, 13 and Lelend, 8.

The TEAM JAIDE FUND has been established at Southwind Bank, 436 N Main, Russell, KS 65665 to help defray expenses.

Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation is providing Jaide's family with both financial and emotional support. 

Located
 in Hoisington, the organization was established in 1994 by Sarah and 
Shane Reif and parents, Debbie and Duane, in an effort to raise funds 
for their 9-month-old cousin/niece who had been diagnosed with cancer. 
The project caught on and expanded to any child in Barton County who was
 living with cancer. Now, 26 years later, the 501c3 non-profit provides 
assistance to children in Barton, Russell, Rice and Pawnee Counties, 
18-years-old and younger who are living with pediatric cancer. 

Since
 its inception, Kans for Kids has assisted 36 children and their 
families and are currently providing assistance to 5 children.

For more information on Kans for Kids go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansforkids.org/" target="_blank">www.kansforkids.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582035525568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>RUSSELL — Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation recently welcomed 
17-year-old Jaide Lawson, Russell, into their fold.&nbsp; Jaide was diagnosed
 with Ewing Sarcoma in November of 2019. Ewing Sarcoma&nbsp;is a cancerous 
tumor that grows in the bones or in the tissue around bones (soft 
tissue).&nbsp;She is the daughter of Amy Lawson Sievert and Brenton Sievert, 
Russell, and is being treated at Chidlren's Mercy Hospital in Kansas 
City.A senior at Russell High School, Jaide enjoys music and art 
and is a fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Green Bay Packers. She 
hopes to pursue a career as an artist. She has three younger brothers, 
Aiden, 15, Otto, 13 and Lelend, 8.The TEAM JAIDE FUND has been established at Southwind Bank, 436 N Main, Russell, KS 65665 to help defray expenses.Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation is providing Jaide's family with both financial and emotional support. Located
 in Hoisington, the organization was established in 1994 by Sarah and 
Shane Reif and parents, Debbie and Duane, in an effort to raise funds 
for their 9-month-old cousin/niece who had been diagnosed with cancer. 
The project caught on and expanded to any child in Barton County who was
 living with cancer. Now, 26 years later, the 501c3 non-profit provides 
assistance to children in Barton, Russell, Rice and Pawnee Counties, 
18-years-old and younger who are living with pediatric cancer. Since
 its inception, Kans for Kids has assisted 36 children and their 
families and are currently providing assistance to 5 children.For more information on Kans for Kids go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansforkids.org/" target="_blank">www.kansforkids.org</a>

Foundation helps Russell teen fighting cancer

BUNKER HILL – Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Herrman Physical Therapy of Hays, where we will focus on the topic of physical therapy.&nbsp; This episode will air
Tuesday, February 18 at 7 p.m.


Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions
 from the viewing audience. The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;


The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:
<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at
<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to
<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions
 submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581344584584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBS
BUNKER HILL – Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Herrman Physical Therapy of Hays, where we will focus on the topic of physical therapy.&nbsp; This episode will air
Tuesday, February 18 at 7 p.m.
Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions
 from the viewing audience. The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:
<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>
A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at
<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to
<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions
 submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Hays physical therapist featured in 'Doctors on Call'

With abortion and Medicaid and even unpasteurized milk under the legislative microscope, this week hearings start on yet another topic—maybe one of the better ideas that legislators have seen pop up in the last several decades.

It’s called “Forward,” and it is a dramatically new way to figure out how to improve transportation of people and goods across the state. That not only gets people to work on time, but makes it possible for manufacturers in Kansas to get their goods to market and make themselves and their businesses and cities more prosperous.

Sound like a good idea? Yes, but it’s also one that has taken Kansas government nearly 40 years to come up with. Hmmm…

Basic idea is that instead of pulling together local and state officials to plan for what might or might not be the needs for roads and bypasses a decade in the future, how about you first plan how to maintain and keep safe the thousands of miles of roads that we’ve already built? And, once those maintenance needs are met and financed, we look at projects that will make economic development activity achievable.

Well, that’s what the new transportation plan looks like. It took new Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz, to help come up with it, and a new Governor Laura Kelly, to produce a budget that just might make it possible.

First item of business is to do the work that was promised more than a decade ago under former Gov. Sam Brownback, which sounded good of course, but which saw about $2 billion of money to perform that work evaporate as the state’s finances were ravaged by tax cuts that didn’t supercharge the state’s economy as Brownback had promised.

So, to keep government running, the state diverted money from roads to nearly everything that the state does for its citizens, ranging from education to social services to prisons to…well, just about everything but roads that it had promised Kansans.

The result? Those promised highway improvements didn’t get done, money for maintenance was siphoned off for general government operations and nobody is happy. The new plan includes finishing off those promised projects and devoting millions to preserving the highways we have that are steadily deteriorating.

It’s not as easy as it sounds. Kelly will need to delay many of the tax cuts that all legislators want to tout as they seek re-election this year. She’s going to have to keep spending low so that those old projects get done to spark a new era in which maintenance is paid for from federal funds and from the motor fuel taxes we pay every time we fill up.

And, if the Legislature goes along with it in probably a year or two we won’t be siphoning from the “bank of KDOT” the portion of sales tax revenues that can be used for new projects the need for which are tied to not-quite-sudden but developing changes in the Kansas economy.

Do you build a road to lure a factory or new businesses to Kansas in the next 10 years as under old transportation plans, or do you watch how the economy is growing, and where, and then make the investment to make it successful?

That new Forward program being considered also will see local units of government investing in their futures by participating in the cost of highway projects in their areas. Nothing like a local investment to make things work, rather than just hoping highway-builders will buy their lunches at local restaurants.

Yep, we’re interested in seeing how this works out…

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573590596307.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>With abortion and Medicaid and even unpasteurized milk under the legislative microscope, this week hearings start on yet another topic—maybe one of the better ideas that legislators have seen pop up in the last several decades.It’s called “Forward,” and it is a dramatically new way to figure out how to improve transportation of people and goods across the state. That not only gets people to work on time, but makes it possible for manufacturers in Kansas to get their goods to market and make themselves and their businesses and cities more prosperous.Sound like a good idea? Yes, but it’s also one that has taken Kansas government nearly 40 years to come up with. Hmmm…Basic idea is that instead of pulling together local and state officials to plan for what might or might not be the needs for roads and bypasses a decade in the future, how about you first plan how to maintain and keep safe the thousands of miles of roads that we’ve already built? And, once those maintenance needs are met and financed, we look at projects that will make economic development activity achievable.Well, that’s what the new transportation plan looks like. It took new Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz, to help come up with it, and a new Governor Laura Kelly, to produce a budget that just might make it possible.First item of business is to do the work that was promised more than a decade ago under former Gov. Sam Brownback, which sounded good of course, but which saw about $2 billion of money to perform that work evaporate as the state’s finances were ravaged by tax cuts that didn’t supercharge the state’s economy as Brownback had promised.So, to keep government running, the state diverted money from roads to nearly everything that the state does for its citizens, ranging from education to social services to prisons to…well, just about everything but roads that it had promised Kansans.The result? Those promised highway improvements didn’t get done, money for maintenance was siphoned off for general government operations and nobody is happy. The new plan includes finishing off those promised projects and devoting millions to preserving the highways we have that are steadily deteriorating.It’s not as easy as it sounds. Kelly will need to delay many of the tax cuts that all legislators want to tout as they seek re-election this year. She’s going to have to keep spending low so that those old projects get done to spark a new era in which maintenance is paid for from federal funds and from the motor fuel taxes we pay every time we fill up.And, if the Legislature goes along with it in probably a year or two we won’t be siphoning from the “bank of KDOT” the portion of sales tax revenues that can be used for new projects the need for which are tied to not-quite-sudden but developing changes in the Kansas economy.Do you build a road to lure a factory or new businesses to Kansas in the next 10 years as under old transportation plans, or do you watch how the economy is growing, and where, and then make the investment to make it successful?That new Forward program being considered also will see local units of government investing in their futures by participating in the cost of highway projects in their areas. Nothing like a local investment to make things work, rather than just hoping highway-builders will buy their lunches at local restaurants.Yep, we’re interested in seeing how this works out…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/">www.hawvernews.com</a>

HAWVER: Fixing roads, closing the 'Bank of KDOT'

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Woody Stauffer's "Dredge the Foundry: For Dirt and Era" exhibit covers a wide range in concrete, metals and plastics that from the&nbsp; pieces meant to evoke eons of decay to whimsical "animal crackers" cast in aluminum.

Stauffer's Master of Fine Arts exhibit will wrap up Friday in the new Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art in the art building on the Fort Hays State University campus.

Stauffer, 28, of Minneapolis, Minn., is concluding three years of study at FHSU with an emphasis in cast metal and concrete, although he also incorporates found and natural objects as well as plastics in this show.

The centerpiece of Stauffer's show is called the "Winged Snake Foundry Garden." He has incorporated his own small scale furnace into this piece. He wrapped a portion of the crane for the crucible in concrete and encased a cast iron dragon in the concrete.

He said the sculpture is his homage to metal casting.

Yet, he also said the dragon in the piece is representative of a demon. He said he loves his art, yet he knows he doesn't make a lot of money creating it.

"A lot of my work is about unearthing the past of the planet, which is buried beneath the ground. You have to unearth things to discover the past of planet earth," he said. "[I am] trying to understand how the earth functions and the metal that comes from the earth."

Many of his pieces contain dinosaurs or prehistoric-looking creatures, which he said is a homage to the earth's past.

"It is hard to fathom time scale and the time of the planet," he said. "Us humans are only here for 100 years. When I make sculpture, I try to channel certain natural things that the earth does."

The furnace on display in Stauffer's current exhibit will be headed to the Colby Art Walk this spring to be used to cast scratch blocks for community members. A scratch block is a carving in sand that is used as the mold for a metal pour.

Another sculpture in Stauffer's exhibit incorporates a rusted tailpipe in concrete.&nbsp;

"I was walking down the street and I found it on the side of the road," he said. "That is the thing with sculpture — sometimes you find something, and I want to incorporate that into a sculpture. I brought it to Kansas and I spent two years just having it my garage space.

"That is the fun thing about sculpture is finally finding a home for materials."

For the&nbsp; sculpture&nbsp; "Asteroid," Stauffer used plastic wrap for the first time as a mold for concrete.&nbsp; He also cast iron "rocks," that sit at the base of the sculpture.&nbsp;

He has also used chill molds to create more futuristic, almost alien- or robotic-looking creatures, which he says are meant to look futuristic.

Stauffer has also been experimenting with 3-D printing at FHSU.&nbsp; He has used the 3-D printing to create molds that are used to cast pieces in metal. He created an aluminum brush and dustpan through this process.

Working in concrete, he creates a lot of dust, but he also said the sculpture was symbolic of our need to take better care of our planet.

"It might be a nihilistic approach," he said. "What we are doing to the planet may kill us all in the end, but plastic will still be here. It is what I have been pondering. What is going to remain here from us?"

"I like to add some sorts of humor into my work too," he said standing over his "Nature is Metal, Life is Dumb." "... just like life on the planet and all its diverse forms and how weird it is to be a living thing."

Stauffer said his favorite aspect of his work is the casting process.

"I love the casting process where you get the furnace going and you can feel the heat and the slow melt of the metal," he said. "There is a lot of process involved."

Stauffer said casting metal is not a "solo adventure."

"It is like a sporting event. You have your team. You have to coordinate with one another," he said. "It is like an athletic event too. There is a lot of lifting and moving and preparing things."

When he works with concrete, that is usually an individual process.&nbsp;

Stauffer has been experimenting using the geometric forms in styrofoam packing as molds for concrete. One of his concrete pieces was cast from a drink carrier, but it it yielded a very earthy, decayed-looking piece.

&nbsp;Learn more about Stauffer's sculpture at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wssgdesigns.com/">https://www.wssgdesigns.com/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581965528553.jpeg" alt="FHSU student&nbsp;Woody Stauffer stands on his sculpture "Winged Snake Foundry Garden," which is part of his Master of Fine Arts exhibit "Dredge the Foundry: For Dirt and Era." The exhibit is on display in the Moss-Thorns Gallery at FHSU through Friday. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU student&nbsp;Woody Stauffer stands on his sculpture "Winged Snake Foundry Garden," which is part of his Master of Fine Arts exhibit "Dredge the Foundry: For Dirt and Era." The exhibit is on display in the Moss-Thorns Gallery at FHSU through Friday. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWoody Stauffer's "Dredge the Foundry: For Dirt and Era" exhibit covers a wide range in concrete, metals and plastics that from the&nbsp; pieces meant to evoke eons of decay to whimsical "animal crackers" cast in aluminum.Stauffer's Master of Fine Arts exhibit will wrap up Friday in the new Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art in the art building on the Fort Hays State University campus.Stauffer, 28, of Minneapolis, Minn., is concluding three years of study at FHSU with an emphasis in cast metal and concrete, although he also incorporates found and natural objects as well as plastics in this show.The centerpiece of Stauffer's show is called the "Winged Snake Foundry Garden." He has incorporated his own small scale furnace into this piece. He wrapped a portion of the crane for the crucible in concrete and encased a cast iron dragon in the concrete.He said the sculpture is his homage to metal casting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581967686272.jpeg" alt="The back scales of the dragon on the&nbsp;"Winged Snake Foundry Garden" sculpture." />
 <figcaption>The back scales of the dragon on the&nbsp;"Winged Snake Foundry Garden" sculpture.</figcaption>
 </figure>Yet, he also said the dragon in the piece is representative of a demon. He said he loves his art, yet he knows he doesn't make a lot of money creating it."A lot of my work is about unearthing the past of the planet, which is buried beneath the ground. You have to unearth things to discover the past of planet earth," he said. "[I am] trying to understand how the earth functions and the metal that comes from the earth."Many of his pieces contain dinosaurs or prehistoric-looking creatures, which he said is a homage to the earth's past."It is hard to fathom time scale and the time of the planet," he said. "Us humans are only here for 100 years. When I make sculpture, I try to channel certain natural things that the earth does."The furnace on display in Stauffer's current exhibit will be headed to the Colby Art Walk this spring to be used to cast scratch blocks for community members. A scratch block is a carving in sand that is used as the mold for a metal pour.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581965917464.jpeg" alt="Artist Woody Stauffer, FHSU graduate student, stands next to an art piece that incorporates a piece of tailpipe he found by the side of the road. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Artist Woody Stauffer, FHSU graduate student, stands next to an art piece that incorporates a piece of tailpipe he found by the side of the road. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Another sculpture in Stauffer's exhibit incorporates a rusted tailpipe in concrete.&nbsp;"I was walking down the street and I found it on the side of the road," he said. "That is the thing with sculpture — sometimes you find something, and I want to incorporate that into a sculpture. I brought it to Kansas and I spent two years just having it my garage space."That is the fun thing about sculpture is finally finding a home for materials."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581966335939.jpeg" alt="Stauffer used plastic wrap to mold the concrete for this sculpture titled "Asteroid."" />
 <figcaption>Stauffer used plastic wrap to mold the concrete for this sculpture titled "Asteroid."</figcaption>
 </figure>For the&nbsp; sculpture&nbsp; "Asteroid," Stauffer used plastic wrap for the first time as a mold for concrete.&nbsp; He also cast iron "rocks," that sit at the base of the sculpture.&nbsp;He has also used chill molds to create more futuristic, almost alien- or robotic-looking creatures, which he says are meant to look futuristic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581966646233.jpeg" alt="Stauffer used chill molds to cast these futuristic creatures in metal. This piece is titled "Up from Here."" />
 <figcaption>Stauffer used chill molds to cast these futuristic creatures in metal. This piece is titled "Up from Here."</figcaption>
 </figure>Stauffer has also been experimenting with 3-D printing at FHSU.&nbsp; He has used the 3-D printing to create molds that are used to cast pieces in metal. He created an aluminum brush and dustpan through this process.Working in concrete, he creates a lot of dust, but he also said the sculpture was symbolic of our need to take better care of our planet."It might be a nihilistic approach," he said. "What we are doing to the planet may kill us all in the end, but plastic will still be here. It is what I have been pondering. What is going to remain here from us?"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581966882588.jpeg" alt="Stauffer used a rotation mold to create the pink plastic pig for this sculpture titled "Packaged Pig."" />
 <figcaption>Stauffer used a rotation mold to create the pink plastic pig for this sculpture titled "Packaged Pig."</figcaption>
 </figure>"I like to add some sorts of humor into my work too," he said standing over his "Nature is Metal, Life is Dumb." "... just like life on the planet and all its diverse forms and how weird it is to be a living thing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581967379454.jpeg" alt=""Nature is Metal, Life is Dumb" by Woody Stauffer, FHSU grad student" />
 <figcaption>"Nature is Metal, Life is Dumb" by Woody Stauffer, FHSU grad student</figcaption>
 </figure>Stauffer said his favorite aspect of his work is the casting process."I love the casting process where you get the furnace going and you can feel the heat and the slow melt of the metal," he said. "There is a lot of process involved."Stauffer said casting metal is not a "solo adventure.""It is like a sporting event. You have your team. You have to coordinate with one another," he said. "It is like an athletic event too. There is a lot of lifting and moving and preparing things."When he works with concrete, that is usually an individual process.&nbsp;Stauffer has been experimenting using the geometric forms in styrofoam packing as molds for concrete. One of his concrete pieces was cast from a drink carrier, but it it yielded a very earthy, decayed-looking piece.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581967047961.jpeg" alt="Stauffer used packing material to cast this piece titled "Contingency of Dirt."" />
 <figcaption>Stauffer used packing material to cast this piece titled "Contingency of Dirt."</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Learn more about Stauffer's sculpture at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wssgdesigns.com/">https://www.wssgdesigns.com/</a>

Stauffer explores past, present, future in FHSU MFA exhibit

Staff from Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science will host six free information sessions across the state for interested students and families in March and April.&nbsp;

The Academy offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to live and learn at Fort Hays State University and get a head start on their college educations.&nbsp;

Students and guests can learn about KAMS and visit with representatives from the Academy at these sessions. Please visit the registration website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/" target="_blank">http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/</a>&nbsp;to find a session in your area.&nbsp;

The information sessions are listed chronologically.&nbsp;

Johnson County Central Resource Library, Carmack Community Room

9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS&nbsp;

Topeka Public Library, Marvin Auditorium 101C&nbsp;

Wichita Advanced Learning Library, Conference Room C

All information sessions are free and open to the public.&nbsp;

For more information, contact Abby Anderson, coordinator for marketing and recruitment, at 785-628-4719 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aeanderson2@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">aeanderson2@fhsu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kams" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/kams</a>&nbsp;for more information regarding the program.&nbsp;

KAMS is an early college program that focuses on advanced mathematics and science coursework. While studying at KAMS, students live on the FHSU campus in a select residence hall with other Academy students from around the world. Over the course of two years, students complete over 60 hours of college credit and complete their high school diploma. These college classes are taken alongside traditional college undergraduates and taught by college professors while simultaneously contributing to their high school graduation requirements. KAMS also provides hands-on research, leadership, and civic engagement opportunities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581950362898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsStaff from Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science will host six free information sessions across the state for interested students and families in March and April.&nbsp;The Academy offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to live and learn at Fort Hays State University and get a head start on their college educations.&nbsp;Students and guests can learn about KAMS and visit with representatives from the Academy at these sessions. Please visit the registration website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/" target="_blank">http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/</a>&nbsp;to find a session in your area.&nbsp;The information sessions are listed chronologically.&nbsp;March 12, 6 p.m.Salina Public Library, Prescott Room301 W. Elm St., Salina, KS&nbsp;March 25, 6 p.m.Manhattan Public Library, Auditorium629 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS&nbsp;March 31, 6 p.m.Johnson County Central Resource Library, Carmack Community Room9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS&nbsp;April 1, 6 p.m.Topeka Public Library, Marvin Auditorium 101C&nbsp;1515 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS&nbsp;April 9, 6 p.m.Wichita Advanced Learning Library, Conference Room C711 W. 2nd St., N Wichita, KS&nbsp;April 14, 6 p.m.FHSU Memorial Union, Stouffer Lounge700 Park St., Hays, KS&nbsp;All information sessions are free and open to the public.&nbsp;For more information, contact Abby Anderson, coordinator for marketing and recruitment, at 785-628-4719 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aeanderson2@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">aeanderson2@fhsu.edu</a>.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/kams" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/kams</a>&nbsp;for more information regarding the program.&nbsp;About KAMS:KAMS is an early college program that focuses on advanced mathematics and science coursework. While studying at KAMS, students live on the FHSU campus in a select residence hall with other Academy students from around the world. Over the course of two years, students complete over 60 hours of college credit and complete their high school diploma. These college classes are taken alongside traditional college undergraduates and taught by college professors while simultaneously contributing to their high school graduation requirements. KAMS also provides hands-on research, leadership, and civic engagement opportunities.&nbsp;

KAMS information sessions set to begin next month across Kan.

LAWRENCE — Crops need water. And in the central United States, the increasing scarcity of water resources is becoming a threat to the nation’s food production.

Tsvetan Tsvetanov, assistant professor of economics at the University of Kansas, has analyzed a pilot program intended to conserve water in the agriculture-dependent region. His article <a href="http://le.uwpress.org/content/96/1/56.abstract">“The Effectiveness of a Water Right Retirement Program at Conserving Water,”</a> co-written with fellow KU economics professor Dietrich Earnhart, is published in the current issue of Land Economics.

“Residential water use is mostly problematic in California, and not so much here in Kansas. However, people don’t realize that residential use is tiny compared to agricultural use,” Tsvetanov said.

“I don’t want to discourage efforts to conserve water use among residential households. But if we want to really make a difference, it’s the agricultural sector that needs to change its practices.”

That’s the impetus behind the Kansas Water Right Transition Assistance Program (WTAP).

“If you’re a farmer, you need water to irrigate. If you don’t irrigate, you don’t get to sell your crops, and you lose money. So the state says if you reduce the amount of water you use, it’s actually going to pay you. So it’s essentially compensating you to irrigate less,” he said.

But this is not a day-to-day solution. The state recompenses farmers to permanently retire their water rights. The five-year pilot program that began in 2008 offers up to $2,000 for every acre-foot retired.

This benefits the High Plains Aquifer, the world’s largest freshwater aquifer system, which is located beneath much of the Great Plains. Around 21 million acre-feet of water is withdrawn from this system, primarily for agricultural purposes.

Tsvetanov and Earnhart’s work distinguishes the effectiveness between two target areas: creek sub-basins and high-priority areas. Their study (which is the first to directly estimate the effects of water right retirement) found WTAP resulted in no reduction of usage in the creek areas but substantial reduction in the high-priority areas.

“Our first thought was, ‘That’s not what we expected,’” Tsvetanov said.

“The creeks are the geographic majority of what’s being covered by the policy. The high-priority areas are called that for a reason — they’ve been struggling for many years. Our best guess is that farmers there were more primed to respond to the policy because there is awareness things are not looking good, and something needs to be done. So as soon as a policy became available which compensated them for the reduction of water use, they were quicker to take advantage of it.”

Of the eight states sitting atop the High Plains Aquifer, Texas is the worst in terms of water depletion volume. However, Kansas suffers from the fastest rate of depletion during the past half-century.

“Things are quite dire,” Tsvetanov said. “The western part of Kansas is more arid, so they don’t get as much precipitation as we do here in the east. Something needs to change in the long run, and this is just the first step.”

Tsvetanov initially was studying solar adoption while doing his postdoctoral work at Yale University in Connecticut. When visiting KU for a job interview, he assumed the sunny quality of the Wheat State would be a great fit for his research. He soon realized that few policies incentivized the adoption of solar.

“At that point, I thought, ‘I can’t really adapt solar research to the state of Kansas because there’s not much going on here.’ And then I started getting more interested in water scarcity because this truly is a big local issue,” he said.

A native of Bulgaria who was raised in India (as a member of a diplomat’s family, Tsvetanov is now in his fifth year at KU. He studies energy and environmental economics, specifically how individual household choices factor into energy efficiency and renewable resources.

The state of Kansas spent $2.9 million in the half decade that the WTAP pilot program ran. Roughly 6,000 acre-feet of water rights were permanently retired.

“Maybe it’s a start, but it’s not something you would expect to stabilize the depletion,” Tsvetanov said. “This is just a drop in the bucket. Essentially what we need is some alternative source of income for those people living out there, aside from irrigation-intensive agriculture.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581715124958.jpeg" alt="Plots of land in Finney County, Kansas, utilize irrigation water from the High Plains Aquifer. (Photo by NASA)" />
 <figcaption>Plots of land in Finney County, Kansas, utilize irrigation water from the High Plains Aquifer. (Photo by NASA)</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Crops need water. And in the central United States, the increasing scarcity of water resources is becoming a threat to the nation’s food production.Tsvetan Tsvetanov, assistant professor of economics at the University of Kansas, has analyzed a pilot program intended to conserve water in the agriculture-dependent region. His article <a href="http://le.uwpress.org/content/96/1/56.abstract">“The Effectiveness of a Water Right Retirement Program at Conserving Water,”</a> co-written with fellow KU economics professor Dietrich Earnhart, is published in the current issue of Land Economics.“Residential water use is mostly problematic in California, and not so much here in Kansas. However, people don’t realize that residential use is tiny compared to agricultural use,” Tsvetanov said.“I don’t want to discourage efforts to conserve water use among residential households. But if we want to really make a difference, it’s the agricultural sector that needs to change its practices.”That’s the impetus behind the Kansas Water Right Transition Assistance Program (WTAP).“If you’re a farmer, you need water to irrigate. If you don’t irrigate, you don’t get to sell your crops, and you lose money. So the state says if you reduce the amount of water you use, it’s actually going to pay you. So it’s essentially compensating you to irrigate less,” he said.But this is not a day-to-day solution. The state recompenses farmers to permanently retire their water rights. The five-year pilot program that began in 2008 offers up to $2,000 for every acre-foot retired.This benefits the High Plains Aquifer, the world’s largest freshwater aquifer system, which is located beneath much of the Great Plains. Around 21 million acre-feet of water is withdrawn from this system, primarily for agricultural purposes.Tsvetanov and Earnhart’s work distinguishes the effectiveness between two target areas: creek sub-basins and high-priority areas. Their study (which is the first to directly estimate the effects of water right retirement) found WTAP resulted in no reduction of usage in the creek areas but substantial reduction in the high-priority areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581715213371.jpeg" alt="Tsvetan Tsvetanov" />
 <figcaption>Tsvetan Tsvetanov</figcaption>
 </figure>“Our first thought was, ‘That’s not what we expected,’” Tsvetanov said.“The creeks are the geographic majority of what’s being covered by the policy. The high-priority areas are called that for a reason — they’ve been struggling for many years. Our best guess is that farmers there were more primed to respond to the policy because there is awareness things are not looking good, and something needs to be done. So as soon as a policy became available which compensated them for the reduction of water use, they were quicker to take advantage of it.”Of the eight states sitting atop the High Plains Aquifer, Texas is the worst in terms of water depletion volume. However, Kansas suffers from the fastest rate of depletion during the past half-century.“Things are quite dire,” Tsvetanov said. “The western part of Kansas is more arid, so they don’t get as much precipitation as we do here in the east. Something needs to change in the long run, and this is just the first step.”Tsvetanov initially was studying solar adoption while doing his postdoctoral work at Yale University in Connecticut. When visiting KU for a job interview, he assumed the sunny quality of the Wheat State would be a great fit for his research. He soon realized that few policies incentivized the adoption of solar.“At that point, I thought, ‘I can’t really adapt solar research to the state of Kansas because there’s not much going on here.’ And then I started getting more interested in water scarcity because this truly is a big local issue,” he said.A native of Bulgaria who was raised in India (as a member of a diplomat’s family, Tsvetanov is now in his fifth year at KU. He studies energy and environmental economics, specifically how individual household choices factor into energy efficiency and renewable resources.The state of Kansas spent $2.9 million in the half decade that the WTAP pilot program ran. Roughly 6,000 acre-feet of water rights were permanently retired.“Maybe it’s a start, but it’s not something you would expect to stabilize the depletion,” Tsvetanov said. “This is just a drop in the bucket. Essentially what we need is some alternative source of income for those people living out there, aside from irrigation-intensive agriculture.”

Paying farmers to conserve water: Is it effective?

ELLIS — Ellis High School had its Annual KAY Snowball Dance on Saturday, February 15, 2020.&nbsp; Snowball Royalty class winners are as follows:

• Junior Queen, Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic and Joan Winter

• Sophomore Queen, Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer

• Freshmen Queen, Emily Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck

• Senior Queen, Karista Pugh, daughter of guardians Melvin and Tracy Kinderknecht

• Freshmen King, Dakota Metzler, son of Jim and Becky Metzler

• Sophomore King, Sam Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas

• Junior King, Brady Frickey, son of Brad and Stacy Frickey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581956211733.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS — Ellis High School had its Annual KAY Snowball Dance on Saturday, February 15, 2020.&nbsp; Snowball Royalty class winners are as follows:• Junior Queen, Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic and Joan Winter• Sophomore Queen, Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer• Freshmen Queen, Emily Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck• Senior Queen, Karista Pugh, daughter of guardians Melvin and Tracy Kinderknecht• Freshmen King, Dakota Metzler, son of Jim and Becky Metzler• Sophomore King, Sam Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas• Junior King, Brady Frickey, son of Brad and Stacy Frickey.

Ellis High announces 2020 Snowball royalty class winners

Cattle producers who have not yet started the spring calving season still have time to plan ahead, and a Kansas State University veterinarian notes that could make a big difference in having a successful year.

“This is the time for a pre-emptive strike,” said A.J. Tarpoff, a beef veterinarian with K-State Research and Extension. “If you haven’t started calving yet on your operation, now is the time to start thinking about what you can do to be ready.”

Tarpoff noted that producers need to make sure they have the necessary supplies on hand, which may require buying or repairing items and facilities. Then, he adds, set in motion a plan to manage the birth of the new calves.

“Calving books are a phenomenal tool,” Tarpoff said. “It could be just a little pocketbook where you write down who calved, when they calved, if there was difficulty, and whether it was a male or female coming out. There is a lot of information that we can capture about the birthing process so that we’re able to make better decisions within our herd in the future.”

One of the newer management techniques that can lead to successful calving is to feed cows at dusk. “There have been several research studies that show reliable results that a higher percentage of animals are born during daylight hours when we feed the cow in the late evening hours,” Tarpoff said.

Feeding late in the evening, he said, will help decrease midnight or early morning births, which are hard on workers and can make the birth more complicated if there are difficulties.

Tarpoff hosted a series of calving schools across Kansas over the last several weeks to help the state’s producers be adequately prepared to bring in as many healthy animals as possible. The final session for this season was video-streamed on Facebook Live. A recording of that session can be seen on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KStateRE/videos/746744109146536/?t=0">K-State Research and Extension Facebook page</a>.

One of his recommendations is that producers use a cooler to store tools and equipment: “On cold days and nights, the cooler will help equipment to stay nice and warm. We can close it up and know that our equipment is not going to freeze,” he said.

Tarpoff said producers should check calving chains or obstetric straps for rust, sharp spots or fraying. He also suggests having multiple sets on hand in case there are multiple births at once. The straps should be cleaned, disinfected and hung to dry after each use.

“Once those straps are dried, put them in a closed container so that you don’t re-contaminate them by accident,” he said. “Then, throw them back into your cooler kit.”

Producers should have a meeting with their local veterinarian to discuss situations that may occur, and what medicine or other supplies may be needed to handle those. “They can prescribe the products you’ll need and set you up to be a little more prepared,” Tarpoff said.

Producers can also contact their local extension agent or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksubeef.org/">KSUBeef.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on getting prepared for spring calving.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension.</figcaption>
 </figure>Cattle producers who have not yet started the spring calving season still have time to plan ahead, and a Kansas State University veterinarian notes that could make a big difference in having a successful year.“This is the time for a pre-emptive strike,” said A.J. Tarpoff, a beef veterinarian with K-State Research and Extension. “If you haven’t started calving yet on your operation, now is the time to start thinking about what you can do to be ready.”Tarpoff noted that producers need to make sure they have the necessary supplies on hand, which may require buying or repairing items and facilities. Then, he adds, set in motion a plan to manage the birth of the new calves.“Calving books are a phenomenal tool,” Tarpoff said. “It could be just a little pocketbook where you write down who calved, when they calved, if there was difficulty, and whether it was a male or female coming out. There is a lot of information that we can capture about the birthing process so that we’re able to make better decisions within our herd in the future.”One of the newer management techniques that can lead to successful calving is to feed cows at dusk. “There have been several research studies that show reliable results that a higher percentage of animals are born during daylight hours when we feed the cow in the late evening hours,” Tarpoff said.Feeding late in the evening, he said, will help decrease midnight or early morning births, which are hard on workers and can make the birth more complicated if there are difficulties.Tarpoff hosted a series of calving schools across Kansas over the last several weeks to help the state’s producers be adequately prepared to bring in as many healthy animals as possible. The final session for this season was video-streamed on Facebook Live. A recording of that session can be seen on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KStateRE/videos/746744109146536/?t=0">K-State Research and Extension Facebook page</a>.One of his recommendations is that producers use a cooler to store tools and equipment: “On cold days and nights, the cooler will help equipment to stay nice and warm. We can close it up and know that our equipment is not going to freeze,” he said.Tarpoff said producers should check calving chains or obstetric straps for rust, sharp spots or fraying. He also suggests having multiple sets on hand in case there are multiple births at once. The straps should be cleaned, disinfected and hung to dry after each use.“Once those straps are dried, put them in a closed container so that you don’t re-contaminate them by accident,” he said. “Then, throw them back into your cooler kit.”Producers should have a meeting with their local veterinarian to discuss situations that may occur, and what medicine or other supplies may be needed to handle those. “They can prescribe the products you’ll need and set you up to be a little more prepared,” Tarpoff said.Producers can also contact their local extension agent or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksubeef.org/">KSUBeef.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on getting prepared for spring calving.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Time to start prepping for calving season is now

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581976145321.jpeg" alt="" />
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The Senate considered the appointment of Laurel Searles, as a member of the Kansas Human Rights Commission on February 12. The appointment was confirmed 40-0. Laurel Searles is the Director of Unemployment Insurance with the Kansas Department of Labor and will serve in the Labor Representative seat on the commission. 

The Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources heard two controversial bills on raw milk this week. SB300 calls for complete and total ban on the sale of unpasteurized, or “raw” milk, while SB308 allows for the sale of raw milk (and advertising of raw milk) to be done however dairy farmers see fit, with the caveat that certain warning labels are placed on the product and in advertisements. 

Proponents for a total ban on raw milk sales included several dairy producers, who spoke on behalf of the organizations they represent and are concerned with the health and safety of raw milk products. They say that if someone gets sick from the consumption of raw milk, the entire dairy industry is often penalized through lower sales and decreased consumer trust. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581353884625.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland, 40th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland, 40th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Senate considered the appointment of Laurel Searles, as a member of the Kansas Human Rights Commission on February 12. The appointment was confirmed 40-0. Laurel Searles is the Director of Unemployment Insurance with the Kansas Department of Labor and will serve in the Labor Representative seat on the commission. The Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources heard two controversial bills on raw milk this week. SB300 calls for complete and total ban on the sale of unpasteurized, or “raw” milk, while SB308 allows for the sale of raw milk (and advertising of raw milk) to be done however dairy farmers see fit, with the caveat that certain warning labels are placed on the product and in advertisements. Proponents for a total ban on raw milk sales included several dairy producers, who spoke on behalf of the organizations they represent and are concerned with the health and safety of raw milk products. They say that if someone gets sick from the consumption of raw milk, the entire dairy industry is often penalized through lower sales and decreased consumer trust. Opponents of a total ban included two lawyers, who say a ban on raw milk infringes on consumer’s right to choose what they buy, and producers rights to choose what they produce. Three farmers (two who raise and sell raw milk and one who sells goat meat but drinks raw milk) also testified in opposition of a total ban, saying they fully believe in the safety, and even potential health benefits, of raw milk. The Kansas Livestock Association, which represents a number of dairy farms across the state, offered three amendments: one technical amendment related to the definition of milk, one to create sanitary standards for raw milk dairies, and one to create a registry system within the Kansas Department of Agriculture for producers who sell raw milk to the public. There are many small dairies across Kansas selling raw milk and passing this legislation would have a severe economic impact on them. The Senate Ag committee discussed SB153 this week. SB153 is aimed to regulate and penalize those who cause spillage of water and soil pollutants. The bill will authorize the Department of Health and Environment to adopt rules and regulations to respond to the report of a pollutant. The amendment that was added&nbsp;creates an exception for any animal or crop waste in the definition of “pollutant” and allows for exceptions for spills that happen during the course of normal agricultural activities.It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399 or my cell number is 785 899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 236-E.

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