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By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

One of the perks of having had an interesting and memorable childhood full of interesting and memorable characters, is having a treasure chest full of stories at one’s disposal should all other inspiration elude me as I sit down to pen a weekly column. And with deer rifle season beginning in Kansas, here is a story full of those characters.

I’ve often mentioned that during our first several years of deer hunting my brother and I were part of a neighborhood group of landowners and farmers that often hunted deer together. We would converge on a property, “post” two or three guys along one edge, then walk through from the other side as a group and attempt to run the deer out past the “posters” for a shot. 

We had some colorful and amusing individuals in our assembly. As in every group, we had Dave, the local cop who always shot straight, looked sharp and made no mistakes. Many deer were spotted from his kitchen window as we all sat around warming up with a hot drink. Someone (usually Dave) would spot a deer crossing the road, and coffee cups and chairs would fly as we headed for the trucks.

The Beck clan, brothers Don and Paul and most of Paul’s kids made up the bulk of the group. As I talked with my brother the other evening, he reminded me that the first advice I gave him when he began hunting with us was, “When the Becks start shootin’, just get on the ground!”

 I remember standing beside Don one day in the woods when a big buck erupted from a brush pile in front of us. I was behind the pile and couldn’t see well enough for a shot, but Don emptied both barrels of his old double barrel at the fleeing buck. The buck danced away unscathed and the next day Don had a different gun. 

His brother Paul (known to all of us as junior) had a live-in girl friend named Elaine. They were both pretty coarse and crude around the edges, and the best way I know to describe Paul is to compare him to Jackie Gleason’s character Ralph Kramden - always grousing and whining over something. Elaine hunted with us, too, and when they were dressed in hunting garb, the only way to tell them apart was that Elaine was the bigger one. Her favorite line, uttered often as we stood somewhere loitering and planning our assault was “I’m goin’ deer huntin’, you pansies!”

Of the Becks, Ralph, who was my age, was my favorite. He was a big, hairy guy (that earned him the nickname Wolf) who didn’t know his own strength. Turkey shoots were popular back in those days and sponsored by numerous organizations. For a fee you were given one shotgun shell and stood in a line in front of a row of paper targets. After everyone had shot, the targets were pulled down and the number of pellets was counted in each target. The winner was obviously the person putting the most pellets in their target and the prize was a turkey or a ham.

 Ralph had an old single-shot 12-gauge shotgun that broke open to load. The mechanism that allowed it to hinge open had long since ceased to function, so to load it, he simply pulled the pin and the gun became two pieces. He’d load the shell, reinsert the pin and close the gun. It was worth going with him to turkey shoots just to watch. All other shooters up and down the firing line sporting expensive custom-built shotguns would sneer and snicker as he walked up and broke the battered old 12-gauge in half and loaded his shell. The reactions became quite different, though as he fired the old cannon and walked away with the turkey every time.

As with most childhood stories, everything has changed now. I moved to Kansas and have lost touch with most of the old hunting gaggle. 

My brother and I and our families remain active deer hunters and trappers, I’d say in part because of those early experiences. Back then, we harvested few deer, but I learned respect for nature and for my elders. I learned hunter safety without a book or video to teach me. I also learned I’m glad that here in Kansas I can hunt deer with a rifle instead of a shotgun! 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors One of the perks of having had an interesting and memorable childhood full of interesting and memorable characters, is having a treasure chest full of stories at one’s disposal should all other inspiration elude me as I sit down to pen a weekly column. And with deer rifle season beginning in Kansas, here is a story full of those characters.I’ve often mentioned that during our first several years of deer hunting my brother and I were part of a neighborhood group of landowners and farmers that often hunted deer together. We would converge on a property, “post” two or three guys along one edge, then walk through from the other side as a group and attempt to run the deer out past the “posters” for a shot. We had some colorful and amusing individuals in our assembly. As in every group, we had Dave, the local cop who always shot straight, looked sharp and made no mistakes. Many deer were spotted from his kitchen window as we all sat around warming up with a hot drink. Someone (usually Dave) would spot a deer crossing the road, and coffee cups and chairs would fly as we headed for the trucks.The Beck clan, brothers Don and Paul and most of Paul’s kids made up the bulk of the group. As I talked with my brother the other evening, he reminded me that the first advice I gave him when he began hunting with us was, “When the Becks start shootin’, just get on the ground!” I remember standing beside Don one day in the woods when a big buck erupted from a brush pile in front of us. I was behind the pile and couldn’t see well enough for a shot, but Don emptied both barrels of his old double barrel at the fleeing buck. The buck danced away unscathed and the next day Don had a different gun. His brother Paul (known to all of us as junior) had a live-in girl friend named Elaine. They were both pretty coarse and crude around the edges, and the best way I know to describe Paul is to compare him to Jackie Gleason’s character Ralph Kramden - always grousing and whining over something. Elaine hunted with us, too, and when they were dressed in hunting garb, the only way to tell them apart was that Elaine was the bigger one. Her favorite line, uttered often as we stood somewhere loitering and planning our assault was “I’m goin’ deer huntin’, you pansies!”Of the Becks, Ralph, who was my age, was my favorite. He was a big, hairy guy (that earned him the nickname Wolf) who didn’t know his own strength. Turkey shoots were popular back in those days and sponsored by numerous organizations. For a fee you were given one shotgun shell and stood in a line in front of a row of paper targets. After everyone had shot, the targets were pulled down and the number of pellets was counted in each target. The winner was obviously the person putting the most pellets in their target and the prize was a turkey or a ham. Ralph had an old single-shot 12-gauge shotgun that broke open to load. The mechanism that allowed it to hinge open had long since ceased to function, so to load it, he simply pulled the pin and the gun became two pieces. He’d load the shell, reinsert the pin and close the gun. It was worth going with him to turkey shoots just to watch. All other shooters up and down the firing line sporting expensive custom-built shotguns would sneer and snicker as he walked up and broke the battered old 12-gauge in half and loaded his shell. The reactions became quite different, though as he fired the old cannon and walked away with the turkey every time.As with most childhood stories, everything has changed now. I moved to Kansas and have lost touch with most of the old hunting gaggle. My brother and I and our families remain active deer hunters and trappers, I’d say in part because of those early experiences. Back then, we harvested few deer, but I learned respect for nature and for my elders. I learned hunter safety without a book or video to teach me. I also learned I’m glad that here in Kansas I can hunt deer with a rifle instead of a shotgun! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Whitetails, shotguns and turkey shoots

By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX Insight Kansas

Last month, two Kansas cities made decisions central to their future. 

The first city was Prairie Village, a town of barely 20,000 people; the second was Wichita, the largest municipality in the state, with almost 20 times PV’s population. Despite their differences and the many distinct issues in play in both cities, though, their decisions reflect a common argument.

Hiring a professional manager to handle the executive functions of a city is a common form of urban government, though not the one experienced by the greatest number of Americans. Most larger cities—as well as many smaller ones—have a “strong mayor” system, with voters electing a mayor with authority to deal with the agendas presented by an elected city council, in the same way the legislative and executive branches function on the state and national level. The replacement of that system in many places with one of supposedly apolitical professionalization is over 100 years old—yet challenges to it remain.

Those challenges were on display in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/24/prairie-village-abandon-question-2025-election/">municipal election in Prairie Village</a>. PV’s government includes a traditional elected mayor with veto power, and elected council members representing their constituents’ interests.

But a group of citizens organized under the name PV United had pushed forward a ballot referendum, asking Prairie Village’s residents if they wished to “abandon” their current system. PV United’s official goals, as stated by various supporters, are to reduce the size of the council and move more urban responsibilities over to a “professionally trained and experienced city manager” instead.

Of course, like every other form of government in existence, PV is not lacking in hired staff to research ordinances, administer policies, and enforce laws; they in fact already have someone serving as “city administrator.” But such supporting staff wasn’t enough for PV United; in their view, a “professionally run city” would ideally have a “council-mayor-manager” system instead.

That ballot referendum&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2025/11/05/prairie-village-rejects-abandon-question-273254/">lost badly</a>. The defeat was likely more about stopping various political and business actors who opposed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2023/05/04/prairie-village-housing-rezoning-ballot-200895/">easier zoning changes</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2025/10/23/prairie-village-city-hall-election-272064/">civic development plans</a>&nbsp;than it was about government, but given that strong mayor systems&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mittelpolitan.substack.com/p/what-does-tulsa-have-that-wichita">arguably handle matters pertaining to growth and diversity more positively</a>&nbsp;than council-manager ones, the vote remains relevant.

By contrast, Wichita’s decision—made by city leaders, rather than voters—was to maintain their council-manager system of government, as their city manager of 17 years is retiring. His&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.zippia.com/city-manager-jobs/demographics/">unusually long tenure</a>&nbsp;had garnered much praise, but also controversy, and when he announced his plans months ago, there were&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article303451121.html">some</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article303335736.html">suggestions</a>&nbsp;(including&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wide-open/id1853863873">an entire podcast series</a>) that it was time for Wichita to debate the representativeness, and effectiveness, of continuing with a system that nominally (<a target="_blank" href="https://klcjournal.com/local-nonpartisan-elections-2021/">though rarely actually</a>) tries to leaves politics out of city decisions.

Such conversations never truly took place, however—and, with almost no citizen input, just before Thanksgiving the Wichita City Council&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article313140781.html">decided upon their new city manager</a>.

The vote to do so wasn’t unanimous, however, with councilmembers and others alleging interference with the hiring committee, misrepresentation of priorities, frustration over&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article313044373.html">the only local (and only non-white) finalist dropping out without explanation</a>, and more. In other words, some serious political complaints were made—but which now have no real political route forward.

The point is not that the decision of Prairie Village voters was obviously correct, or that the decision made by Wichita’s current leadership obviously wasn’t. It is simply that this supposedly boring argument over government structure isn’t&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/12/its-time-for-wichita-and-its-government.html">going</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mittelpolitan.substack.com/p/13-points-on-the-possible-strong">away</a>. So perhaps talking more explicitly and openly about these decisions, and the motivations behind them, would be a good idea.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750955074364.jpeg" alt="Russell Arben Fox. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Russell Arben Fox. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX Insight Kansas Last month, two Kansas cities made decisions central to their future. The first city was Prairie Village, a town of barely 20,000 people; the second was Wichita, the largest municipality in the state, with almost 20 times PV’s population. Despite their differences and the many distinct issues in play in both cities, though, their decisions reflect a common argument.That argument is over city managers. Hiring a professional manager to handle the executive functions of a city is a common form of urban government, though not the one experienced by the greatest number of Americans. Most larger cities—as well as many smaller ones—have a “strong mayor” system, with voters electing a mayor with authority to deal with the agendas presented by an elected city council, in the same way the legislative and executive branches function on the state and national level. The replacement of that system in many places with one of supposedly apolitical professionalization is over 100 years old—yet challenges to it remain.Those challenges were on display in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/24/prairie-village-abandon-question-2025-election/">municipal election in Prairie Village</a>. PV’s government includes a traditional elected mayor with veto power, and elected council members representing their constituents’ interests. But a group of citizens organized under the name PV United had pushed forward a ballot referendum, asking Prairie Village’s residents if they wished to “abandon” their current system. PV United’s official goals, as stated by various supporters, are to reduce the size of the council and move more urban responsibilities over to a “professionally trained and experienced city manager” instead.Of course, like every other form of government in existence, PV is not lacking in hired staff to research ordinances, administer policies, and enforce laws; they in fact already have someone serving as “city administrator.” But such supporting staff wasn’t enough for PV United; in their view, a “professionally run city” would ideally have a “council-mayor-manager” system instead.That ballot referendum&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2025/11/05/prairie-village-rejects-abandon-question-273254/">lost badly</a>. The defeat was likely more about stopping various political and business actors who opposed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2023/05/04/prairie-village-housing-rezoning-ballot-200895/">easier zoning changes</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2025/10/23/prairie-village-city-hall-election-272064/">civic development plans</a>&nbsp;than it was about government, but given that strong mayor systems&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mittelpolitan.substack.com/p/what-does-tulsa-have-that-wichita">arguably handle matters pertaining to growth and diversity more positively</a>&nbsp;than council-manager ones, the vote remains relevant.By contrast, Wichita’s decision—made by city leaders, rather than voters—was to maintain their council-manager system of government, as their city manager of 17 years is retiring. His&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.zippia.com/city-manager-jobs/demographics/">unusually long tenure</a>&nbsp;had garnered much praise, but also controversy, and when he announced his plans months ago, there were&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article303451121.html">some</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article303335736.html">suggestions</a>&nbsp;(including&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wide-open/id1853863873">an entire podcast series</a>) that it was time for Wichita to debate the representativeness, and effectiveness, of continuing with a system that nominally (<a target="_blank" href="https://klcjournal.com/local-nonpartisan-elections-2021/">though rarely actually</a>) tries to leaves politics out of city decisions.Such conversations never truly took place, however—and, with almost no citizen input, just before Thanksgiving the Wichita City Council&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article313140781.html">decided upon their new city manager</a>. The vote to do so wasn’t unanimous, however, with councilmembers and others alleging interference with the hiring committee, misrepresentation of priorities, frustration over&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article313044373.html">the only local (and only non-white) finalist dropping out without explanation</a>, and more. In other words, some serious political complaints were made—but which now have no real political route forward.The point is not that the decision of Prairie Village voters was obviously correct, or that the decision made by Wichita’s current leadership obviously wasn’t. It is simply that this supposedly boring argument over government structure isn’t&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/12/its-time-for-wichita-and-its-government.html">going</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mittelpolitan.substack.com/p/13-points-on-the-possible-strong">away</a>. So perhaps talking more explicitly and openly about these decisions, and the motivations behind them, would be a good idea.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Questions for, and about, city managers in Kansas

When we said good-bye to a beloved elderly pooch five years ago, we didn’t plan to re-enlist in the pet brigade. Getting older ourselves, we worried a pup would be too much. However, time has a way of changing thinking.

A year ago, I observed intriguing changes in my husband. He decided our granddog that visited infrequently needed a dog house and not just any dog house—an insulated, heated dog house. Fortunately, he found the perfect fit for his vision on a buy sell trade site with the added blessing he only had to drive a few miles to pick it up.

I knew our world had shifted when he suggested we enlarge the fenced area we installed for our granddog’s visiting pleasure. According to Gramps, we needed something higher with more space. Then he started talking Jack Russell mixes…our favorite pet was a brindle Jack Russell cross who left a hole in our hearts when he crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

At first, we intended to rescue an older JR x. Evidently, those are in short supply so we searched puppies and found a Jack,&nbsp; a Bea —½ JR and ½ beagle — close by. She was already five months and on her way to understanding appropriate potty protocol. That minute she crawled first in my lap to snuggle and then crossed to his to stare deep into his eyes clenched the deal. We were back in the dog business.

Like new dog parents, we had to restock, adding a kennel, little bed, leashes, collars, food, bowls, treats, and toys. Our other JR arrived with a calm nature that didn’t require chew toys and squeaky balls. This little gal craves chewing and squeaking objects and dismembers poorly made ones in a flash. She also loves walks with Grampa followed by a chicken/sweet potato treat hidden in a Kong Ball she hasn’t yet destroyed, delivered by Grandma.

Recently, Gramps left the house early for an appointment in his deer stand. While I still slept, he walked her and gave her her customary treat so she wouldn’t awaken me. Ha! You know what they say about best laid plans.

I did sleep until 6:30 when I felt a cold, pointy nose pressing mine while two black button eyes stared hypnotically, compelling my eyes to open. To reinforce her powers of suggestion, she shoved her empty Kong Ball in my face. Groggy, I didn’t wonder why she had the Kong Ball, which we hide once she finds her goody. Like good grandmas everywhere, I padded to the treat cupboard to fulfill her desire.

That afternoon, when Gramps and I reflected on our day, he shared how he’d given her her treat so she wouldn’t awaken me early. What?! Yes, Miss Naughty Pants snagged two treats and never acted one bit remorseful. Gramps now leaves a note to tell me she had a walk and her prize when he leaves early.

Though we didn’t plan to love another dog, this scamp keeps us on our toes and communicating regularly.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764697928113.jpeg" alt="Miss Naughty Pants. Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Miss Naughty Pants. Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINWhen we said good-bye to a beloved elderly pooch five years ago, we didn’t plan to re-enlist in the pet brigade. Getting older ourselves, we worried a pup would be too much. However, time has a way of changing thinking.A year ago, I observed intriguing changes in my husband. He decided our granddog that visited infrequently needed a dog house and not just any dog house—an insulated, heated dog house. Fortunately, he found the perfect fit for his vision on a buy sell trade site with the added blessing he only had to drive a few miles to pick it up.I knew our world had shifted when he suggested we enlarge the fenced area we installed for our granddog’s visiting pleasure. According to Gramps, we needed something higher with more space. Then he started talking Jack Russell mixes…our favorite pet was a brindle Jack Russell cross who left a hole in our hearts when he crossed the Rainbow Bridge.At first, we intended to rescue an older JR x. Evidently, those are in short supply so we searched puppies and found a Jack,&nbsp; a Bea —½ JR and ½ beagle — close by. She was already five months and on her way to understanding appropriate potty protocol. That minute she crawled first in my lap to snuggle and then crossed to his to stare deep into his eyes clenched the deal. We were back in the dog business.Like new dog parents, we had to restock, adding a kennel, little bed, leashes, collars, food, bowls, treats, and toys. Our other JR arrived with a calm nature that didn’t require chew toys and squeaky balls. This little gal craves chewing and squeaking objects and dismembers poorly made ones in a flash. She also loves walks with Grampa followed by a chicken/sweet potato treat hidden in a Kong Ball she hasn’t yet destroyed, delivered by Grandma.Recently, Gramps left the house early for an appointment in his deer stand. While I still slept, he walked her and gave her her customary treat so she wouldn’t awaken me. Ha! You know what they say about best laid plans.I did sleep until 6:30 when I felt a cold, pointy nose pressing mine while two black button eyes stared hypnotically, compelling my eyes to open. To reinforce her powers of suggestion, she shoved her empty Kong Ball in my face. Groggy, I didn’t wonder why she had the Kong Ball, which we hide once she finds her goody. Like good grandmas everywhere, I padded to the treat cupboard to fulfill her desire.That afternoon, when Gramps and I reflected on our day, he shared how he’d given her her treat so she wouldn’t awaken me early. What?! Yes, Miss Naughty Pants snagged two treats and never acted one bit remorseful. Gramps now leaves a note to tell me she had a walk and her prize when he leaves early.Though we didn’t plan to love another dog, this scamp keeps us on our toes and communicating regularly.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Miss Naughty Pants is a con-artist

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I wonder how many of you realize there are two different skunk species living in Kansas; the Striped Skunk with which we are very familiar, and the Eastern Spotted Skunk, often referred to by old-timers as civet cats. I knew there were spotted skunks in Kansas, but have never seen one myself, nor did I know anything about them, so off to Mr. Google I ran.

As Kansas became populated at the beginning of the 20th century, eastern spotted skunks moved northward and westward into the state. The small diversified family farms that existed back then with numerous hay stacks, tree rows, woodlots and myriads of small farm buildings favored the spotted skunk, and they thrived. 

Over the decades as farming has become bigger, cleaner and more efficient, the spotted skunk population has shrunken to where there are now only pockets of them in a few southeastern and west central counties; they just couldn’t adapt like the striped skunk and in 1982 they were added to the Kansas list of threatened species.

Eastern Spotted Skunks are smaller than a common house cat and are built long and low to the ground with bodies that more resemble a weasel. They have a white triangular nose patch, a mostly black tail and four to six white stripes arranged in seemingly infinite, random patterns around their body, making them appear more like spots than stripes. 

They eat mostly insects but are opportunistic feeders and will eat most anything if necessary. They are much more agile than striped skunks and readily climb up trees or into barn lofts.

I remember hearing the old guys at the nursing home where I used to work talk about trapping civet cats when they were young, and they all say how much worse it was to get sprayed by them than by a striped skunk. Sure enough, spotted skunk musk is known to be stronger than that of a normal striped skunk. A unique quirk a spotted skunk often exhibits is the inclination to do an actual handstand on its front legs with its tail arched over its back when threatened.

There is currently no open season allowing Eastern Spotted Skunks to be harvested in Kansas, so I think I’ll add seeing one in the wild to my personal bucket list. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsI wonder how many of you realize there are two different skunk species living in Kansas; the Striped Skunk with which we are very familiar, and the Eastern Spotted Skunk, often referred to by old-timers as civet cats. I knew there were spotted skunks in Kansas, but have never seen one myself, nor did I know anything about them, so off to Mr. Google I ran.As Kansas became populated at the beginning of the 20th century, eastern spotted skunks moved northward and westward into the state. The small diversified family farms that existed back then with numerous hay stacks, tree rows, woodlots and myriads of small farm buildings favored the spotted skunk, and they thrived. Over the decades as farming has become bigger, cleaner and more efficient, the spotted skunk population has shrunken to where there are now only pockets of them in a few southeastern and west central counties; they just couldn’t adapt like the striped skunk and in 1982 they were added to the Kansas list of threatened species.Eastern Spotted Skunks are smaller than a common house cat and are built long and low to the ground with bodies that more resemble a weasel. They have a white triangular nose patch, a mostly black tail and four to six white stripes arranged in seemingly infinite, random patterns around their body, making them appear more like spots than stripes. They eat mostly insects but are opportunistic feeders and will eat most anything if necessary. They are much more agile than striped skunks and readily climb up trees or into barn lofts.I remember hearing the old guys at the nursing home where I used to work talk about trapping civet cats when they were young, and they all say how much worse it was to get sprayed by them than by a striped skunk. Sure enough, spotted skunk musk is known to be stronger than that of a normal striped skunk. A unique quirk a spotted skunk often exhibits is the inclination to do an actual handstand on its front legs with its tail arched over its back when threatened.There is currently no open season allowing Eastern Spotted Skunks to be harvested in Kansas, so I think I’ll add seeing one in the wild to my personal bucket list. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Pepe’ LePew with spots

By MARK Mark R. JOSLYN Insight Kansas

Leaders can unite or divide, whether it be by design or by misstep.

Thanksgiving’s evolution shows how both can happen.

On October 3, 1863, amid profound division and upheaval of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued a formal proclamation that established a National Day of Thanksgiving. He invited his “fellow citizens in every part of the United States…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”

Perfectly timed after the Gettysburg victory, the proclamation capitalized on the Union’s improved outlook and Lincoln’s emerging stature as a unifier.

Lincoln hoped a shared day of thanks would help “heal the wounds of the nation” and establish a tradition that would bond Americans for generations.

Editor of the Ladies’ Magazine, Godey’s Lady’s Book, and author of the children’s poem “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” Hale had lobbied state and federal officials for nearly 40 years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.

She wrote to Lincoln in the summer of 1863 asserting that only the president had the power to make the holiday, “permanently, an American custom and institution.”

Presidents thereafter followed Lincoln’s example.

However, in 1939, during the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt issued his own proclamation. He called for Thanksgiving to be moved back to the third Thursday of November.

At the time, retailers waited until after Thanksgiving to display Christmas decorations and hold sales. By adding an additional seven days to the shopping season, Roosevelt hoped to boost consumer spending. A Gallup opinion poll showed 62 percent of Americans disapproved. Roughly 80 percent of Republicans disapproved, while a majority of Democrats supported it.

Twenty-two mostly Democrat-leaning states observed Thanksgiving on the new date. Twenty-two mostly Republican-leaning states resisted. Three celebrated Thanksgiving on both dates.

A day meant to unite the country turned into a symbol of political difference. A reminder that partisan polarization is nothing new in U.S. politics. Kansas Republican Governor Payne Ratner announced that in the sunflower state “we do not destroy tradition merely to gain newspaper headlines.”

Alf Landon, FDR’s rival in the 1936 election, criticized Roosevelt’s “impulsiveness” and strongly objected to “springing it [the change] upon an unprepared country with the omnipotence of a Hitler.”

People started calling Thanksgiving “Franksgiving.”

Amid unprecedented crises, Lincoln and Roosevelt used Thanksgiving for different purposes. Lincoln envisioned it as a path toward national reconciliation. Roosevelt saw it as a lever for economic activity.

One president embraced tradition. The other disrupted it.

Eventually, Congress intervened and established Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, restoring its observance to the fourth Thursday in November.

The partisan fight faded. Black Friday emerged as a defining feature of American consumer culture, a phenomenon widely embraced by Democrats and Republicans.

Retailers now start promotions in late October and continue through Cyber Monday.

Thanksgiving ultimately became two traditions. First a day for gratitude, then a day for deals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761067718839.png" alt="Mark Joslyn. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Mark Joslyn. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK Mark R. JOSLYN Insight KansasLeaders can unite or divide, whether it be by design or by misstep.Thanksgiving’s evolution shows how both can happen.On October 3, 1863, amid profound division and upheaval of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued a formal proclamation that established a National Day of Thanksgiving. He invited his “fellow citizens in every part of the United States…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”Perfectly timed after the Gettysburg victory, the proclamation capitalized on the Union’s improved outlook and Lincoln’s emerging stature as a unifier.Lincoln hoped a shared day of thanks would help “heal the wounds of the nation” and establish a tradition that would bond Americans for generations.Sarah Josepha Hale hoped so too.Editor of the Ladies’ Magazine, Godey’s Lady’s Book, and author of the children’s poem “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” Hale had lobbied state and federal officials for nearly 40 years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.She wrote to Lincoln in the summer of 1863 asserting that only the president had the power to make the holiday, “permanently, an American custom and institution.”Presidents thereafter followed Lincoln’s example.However, in 1939, during the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt issued his own proclamation. He called for Thanksgiving to be moved back to the third Thursday of November.At the time, retailers waited until after Thanksgiving to display Christmas decorations and hold sales. By adding an additional seven days to the shopping season, Roosevelt hoped to boost consumer spending. A Gallup opinion poll showed 62 percent of Americans disapproved. Roughly 80 percent of Republicans disapproved, while a majority of Democrats supported it.Twenty-two mostly Democrat-leaning states observed Thanksgiving on the new date. Twenty-two mostly Republican-leaning states resisted. Three celebrated Thanksgiving on both dates.A day meant to unite the country turned into a symbol of political difference. A reminder that partisan polarization is nothing new in U.S. politics. Kansas Republican Governor Payne Ratner announced that in the sunflower state “we do not destroy tradition merely to gain newspaper headlines.”Alf Landon, FDR’s rival in the 1936 election, criticized Roosevelt’s “impulsiveness” and strongly objected to “springing it [the change] upon an unprepared country with the omnipotence of a Hitler.”People started calling Thanksgiving “Franksgiving.”Amid unprecedented crises, Lincoln and Roosevelt used Thanksgiving for different purposes. Lincoln envisioned it as a path toward national reconciliation. Roosevelt saw it as a lever for economic activity.One president embraced tradition. The other disrupted it.Eventually, Congress intervened and established Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, restoring its observance to the fourth Thursday in November.But here’s the irony.Roosevelt’s vision stuck.The partisan fight faded. Black Friday emerged as a defining feature of American consumer culture, a phenomenon widely embraced by Democrats and Republicans.Retailers now start promotions in late October and continue through Cyber Monday.Thanksgiving ultimately became two traditions. First a day for gratitude, then a day for deals.Lincoln meets Roosevelt.Oh, yes, and then there’s football.

Insight Kansas: The two traditions of Thanksgiving

If you have tried booking a counseling appointment recently, you may have found that there are longer waitlists than there used to be.

This is due to our mental health system being overwhelmed with high levels of need, and the workers running the system are getting burnt out.

As a graduate student and future social worker, I have the opportunity to witness this crisis firsthand.

As a current case manager working in family preservation, I have seen the struggles of burnout and feelings of failure when the caseload and workload are so high that it feels impossible to give all your families your all when helping and supporting them through difficult situations.

 Therapists, social workers, and case managers are often working overtime to meet this skyrocketing need. With higher-than-manageable caseloads and administrative burdens, many are getting burned out and leaving the field altogether. The result? Even fewer mental health professionals are available to meet the higher demands of people in need, resulting in longer waitlist times.

Mental health issues are on the rise, especially among young adults. Anxiety, depression and burnout are common topics on a college campus, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.

While awareness and sensitivity toward mental health issues appears to be on the rise, access to overall care is decreasing and creating further gaps. 

The U.S. is facing a tremendous shortage of mental health professionals, and rural areas often get hit the hardest.

Why is this happening? To start, the cost of graduate programs to become a mental health professional can be tens of thousands of dollars, with starting salaries often not matching the educational and emotional requirements of being a quality worker.

Fort Hays State University's Master of Social Work program charges roughly $22,000 for online in-state tuition.

The average starting salary for a master's-level mental health professional in Kansas is $45,000, with many individuals also carrying student debt. Burnout is another considerable factor.

1. Support mental health education: Our universities and employers should expand scholarships and loan forgiveness programs for students/employees entering the mental health field.

2. Pay providers fairly: An overall advocacy for healthier wages and benefits (including paid time off) can assist with retention of skilled professionals and attract hard-working individuals.

3. Care for the caregivers: Mental health professionals need to balance their own mental health and needs, too. Ensuring they have access to support systems and resources is crucial for their mental health maintenance.

As students entering the mental health profession or utilizing the mental health field, we can raise our voices and advocate for change. We can support our peers who are choosing to enter this field and make a positive impact on numerous lives.

We can also remind policymakers that mental health care is a necessity and should be a basic human right.

To ensure a healthier future, we must invest in the people who help us get there.

— Jozlyn Karnosky, Master of Social Work student at Fort Hays State University

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have tried booking a counseling appointment recently, you may have found that there are longer waitlists than there used to be.This is due to our mental health system being overwhelmed with high levels of need, and the workers running the system are getting burnt out.As a graduate student and future social worker, I have the opportunity to witness this crisis firsthand.As a current case manager working in family preservation, I have seen the struggles of burnout and feelings of failure when the caseload and workload are so high that it feels impossible to give all your families your all when helping and supporting them through difficult situations. Therapists, social workers, and case managers are often working overtime to meet this skyrocketing need. With higher-than-manageable caseloads and administrative burdens, many are getting burned out and leaving the field altogether. The result? Even fewer mental health professionals are available to meet the higher demands of people in need, resulting in longer waitlist times.Mental health issues are on the rise, especially among young adults. Anxiety, depression and burnout are common topics on a college campus, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.While awareness and sensitivity toward mental health issues appears to be on the rise, access to overall care is decreasing and creating further gaps. The U.S. is facing a tremendous shortage of mental health professionals, and rural areas often get hit the hardest.Why is this happening? To start, the cost of graduate programs to become a mental health professional can be tens of thousands of dollars, with starting salaries often not matching the educational and emotional requirements of being a quality worker.Fort Hays State University's Master of Social Work program charges roughly $22,000 for online in-state tuition.The average starting salary for a master's-level mental health professional in Kansas is $45,000, with many individuals also carrying student debt. Burnout is another considerable factor.What can we do?1. Support mental health education: Our universities and employers should expand scholarships and loan forgiveness programs for students/employees entering the mental health field.2. Pay providers fairly: An overall advocacy for healthier wages and benefits (including paid time off) can assist with retention of skilled professionals and attract hard-working individuals.3. Care for the caregivers: Mental health professionals need to balance their own mental health and needs, too. Ensuring they have access to support systems and resources is crucial for their mental health maintenance.As students entering the mental health profession or utilizing the mental health field, we can raise our voices and advocate for change. We can support our peers who are choosing to enter this field and make a positive impact on numerous lives.We can also remind policymakers that mental health care is a necessity and should be a basic human right.To ensure a healthier future, we must invest in the people who help us get there.— Jozlyn Karnosky, Master of Social Work student at Fort Hays State University

Opinion: Mental health workers burned out, we are all feeling it

During a recent visit, a friend asked, “What do I consider a life well lived?” Her timely question made me think about a recently passed friend and what a difference she made in many lives. Donna Cooper was a teacher who never quit teaching, modeling integrity, curiosity, kindness, and interest in our world. Qualities she shared daily.

We met in the late '80s when I joined Hays High staff where Donna instructed biology. 

We bonded over shared interests in teaching, birds, reptiles, plants, anything outdoors. Eventually she invited me to help sponsor and with my daughters to join her, her sons, and her students on several science club trips. Though colleagues only five years, our explorations of Oklahoma’s Black Mesa and Alabaster Caverns dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, geology, stars in pure black skies, caves, and birds cemented our connection.

Both of us shared Oklahoma ties so even after I began teaching in Ellis, she and I continued trips to red dirt country. One spring, we joined Oklahoma Ornithological Society members to birdwatch near Kenton where I gained new respect for Donna’s knowledge. This area has unique birds that aren’t typical in either western Kansas or Oklahoma. 

Donna could identify them as well as any of the group leaders. She knew eye bars, wing markings, tail, and belly patterns like linguists know foreign languages. I suggested she offer a brain cell transfusion to strengthen my I.D. skills.

Another year, we invited another Hays High friend for a trip to Kearney, NE, during spring crane migration. All the way up and all the way home, Donna revealed identities of not only prairie and migrating birds but also grasses, forbs, and trees. Our friend and I enjoyed way more than crane-watching with our personal encyclopedia of natural knowledge.

A few years later, she demonstrated more skills during a Saturday jaunt to Quivira Wildlife Refuge. She didn’t have to see birds to tell me what they were. Listening to calls provided enough information she could tell me what hid in the marshes. If we waited patiently, the secretive bird would emerge to confirm Donna’s identification. That day, she I.D.’d regulars as well as lesser-known species.

Speaking of listening, this walking/talking resource involved me in western Kansas frog counts. On Spring nights, she needed a partner to join her while she evaluated rural locations pre-selected by a Kansas University natural science data collector. Our job involved accessing GPS-marked sites, turning off the engine, and standing outside listening for calling frogs. Donna knew every species and their identifying vocalizations. She then determined populations based on rubrics involving volume and repetitions during set time limits. That data collector had to love her reports.

Though I heard frogs calling around our home on Big Creek, I didn’t grasp amphibian population diversity in western Kansas until she taught me to differentiate bull frog bass from chorus frog marbles clanking in a bag from leopard frog thumb running over a comb, from trilling tree frogs. Thanks to Donna’s patient tutoring, I discovered scores of woodhouse toads shared our rocky hill.

Our adventures made me wish she’d been my high school science teacher. Instead of combining PE and English concentrations, biology would have replaced PE. Her patient instruction enriched my world. I didn’t get things quickly yet I never felt stupid.

What a blessing for so many that this woman shared her knowledge freely and enthusiastically. Hers was a life well-lived and thankfully well-shared.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN During a recent visit, a friend asked, “What do I consider a life well lived?” Her timely question made me think about a recently passed friend and what a difference she made in many lives. Donna Cooper was a teacher who never quit teaching, modeling integrity, curiosity, kindness, and interest in our world. Qualities she shared daily.We met in the late '80s when I joined Hays High staff where Donna instructed biology. We bonded over shared interests in teaching, birds, reptiles, plants, anything outdoors. Eventually she invited me to help sponsor and with my daughters to join her, her sons, and her students on several science club trips. Though colleagues only five years, our explorations of Oklahoma’s Black Mesa and Alabaster Caverns dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, geology, stars in pure black skies, caves, and birds cemented our connection.Both of us shared Oklahoma ties so even after I began teaching in Ellis, she and I continued trips to red dirt country. One spring, we joined Oklahoma Ornithological Society members to birdwatch near Kenton where I gained new respect for Donna’s knowledge. This area has unique birds that aren’t typical in either western Kansas or Oklahoma. Donna could identify them as well as any of the group leaders. She knew eye bars, wing markings, tail, and belly patterns like linguists know foreign languages. I suggested she offer a brain cell transfusion to strengthen my I.D. skills.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764153649701.jpeg" alt="Cranes. Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Cranes. Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Another year, we invited another Hays High friend for a trip to Kearney, NE, during spring crane migration. All the way up and all the way home, Donna revealed identities of not only prairie and migrating birds but also grasses, forbs, and trees. Our friend and I enjoyed way more than crane-watching with our personal encyclopedia of natural knowledge.A few years later, she demonstrated more skills during a Saturday jaunt to Quivira Wildlife Refuge. She didn’t have to see birds to tell me what they were. Listening to calls provided enough information she could tell me what hid in the marshes. If we waited patiently, the secretive bird would emerge to confirm Donna’s identification. That day, she I.D.’d regulars as well as lesser-known species.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764153563637.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Speaking of listening, this walking/talking resource involved me in western Kansas frog counts. On Spring nights, she needed a partner to join her while she evaluated rural locations pre-selected by a Kansas University natural science data collector. Our job involved accessing GPS-marked sites, turning off the engine, and standing outside listening for calling frogs. Donna knew every species and their identifying vocalizations. She then determined populations based on rubrics involving volume and repetitions during set time limits. That data collector had to love her reports.Though I heard frogs calling around our home on Big Creek, I didn’t grasp amphibian population diversity in western Kansas until she taught me to differentiate bull frog bass from chorus frog marbles clanking in a bag from leopard frog thumb running over a comb, from trilling tree frogs. Thanks to Donna’s patient tutoring, I discovered scores of woodhouse toads shared our rocky hill.Our adventures made me wish she’d been my high school science teacher. Instead of combining PE and English concentrations, biology would have replaced PE. Her patient instruction enriched my world. I didn’t get things quickly yet I never felt stupid.What a blessing for so many that this woman shared her knowledge freely and enthusiastically. Hers was a life well-lived and thankfully well-shared.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: A life well shared

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

Reviewing the results from the 2025 <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/">Kansas Speaks</a> poll conducted by Fort Hays State University, one could easily assume that Kansas is dominated by a coalition of moderate and progressive politics. Consider:

● 70% of Kansans support Medicaid expansion, and about 72% say they think about Medicaid expansion at least a moderate amount.

● 58% support recreational marijuana legalization.

● 59% believe that the state should place no regulations on the circumstances under which women can get abortions.

● While detailed questions about gun policy were not asked this time, in 2024, 75% favored background checks for private gun sales and sales at gun shows, while 55% favored banning assault-style weapons.

● Majorities also favored raising the minimum wage (over 55%) and increasing state assistance for childcare (78%).

Those of us who conduct Kansas Speaks know how hard it is to get a representative sample of respondents these days, so the poll was carefully weighted to reflect the state’s political and demographic makeup. Among our poll respondents who reported voting in 2024, Trump beat Vice President Kamala Harris by more than 10 points. But, why?

Maybe the answer comes down to Trump’s signature issue: immigration. Yet even when we asked specifically about the illegal immigration, we got the following results:

● Only 43% said illegal immigrants are a danger to public safety (21% neutral)

● Only 42% said illegal immigrants should be arrested and put in detention camps (16% neutral)

● Only 39% disagreed that illegal immigrants contribute more to society than they take (16% neutral)

Kansans are divided and ambivalent about illegal immigration. This does not explain support for Trump.

This puzzle brings to mind Thomas Frank’s 2004 book, What’s the Matter with Kansas? Frank suggested that Kansans vote against their true economic interests, instead choosing conservative candidates due to culture war issues like opposition to abortion and to LGBTQ+ rights. However, this is not borne out either by Kansas Speaks or by the state’s 2022 vote on abortion rights, where the pro-choice stance prevailed by an 18% margin.

Likewise, Kansas Speaks offers few clues as to why Kansans would continue to give supermajority support to Trump and his Republican allies. Is it because the Democratic Party is so unpopular these days? Probably not. Most of the Dems’ drop has come from their own supporters, angry at party leaders for not fighting harder against Trump. Also, the Republicans are similarly unpopular. 

Is there a “sleeper” issue missing from Kansas Speaks? Quite possibly. A recent Pew Charitable Trust poll of Americans found that the Republicans’ biggest advantage today is on fighting crime, and Kansas Speaks does not feature many questions about that.

Perhaps the simplest explanation lies in just how much Kansans hate our entire political system today. Kansas Speaks respondents’ ratings of all elected officials and institutions were abysmal. The highest rating was only 47% approval for Governor Laura Kelly, the lowest was 21% approval for the U.S. Congress. 

Kansans may have simply decided that they have nothing to lose by voting for Trump to send a message. Or, they may have reverted to longstanding party ties, even if these no longer reflect the state’s political realities. No matter the explanation, this year’s poll shows that many of Kansans’ policy views are sharply at odds with the way they vote, raising questions that deserve more attention from scholars, reporters, and citizens alike.

Michael Smith is a professor of political science at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751494323778.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasReviewing the results from the 2025 <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/">Kansas Speaks</a> poll conducted by Fort Hays State University, one could easily assume that Kansas is dominated by a coalition of moderate and progressive politics. Consider:● 70% of Kansans support Medicaid expansion, and about 72% say they think about Medicaid expansion at least a moderate amount.● 58% support recreational marijuana legalization.● 59% believe that the state should place no regulations on the circumstances under which women can get abortions.● While detailed questions about gun policy were not asked this time, in 2024, 75% favored background checks for private gun sales and sales at gun shows, while 55% favored banning assault-style weapons.● Majorities also favored raising the minimum wage (over 55%) and increasing state assistance for childcare (78%).Those of us who conduct Kansas Speaks know how hard it is to get a representative sample of respondents these days, so the poll was carefully weighted to reflect the state’s political and demographic makeup. Among our poll respondents who reported voting in 2024, Trump beat Vice President Kamala Harris by more than 10 points. But, why?Maybe the answer comes down to Trump’s signature issue: immigration. Yet even when we asked specifically about the illegal immigration, we got the following results:● Only 43% said illegal immigrants are a danger to public safety (21% neutral)● Only 42% said illegal immigrants should be arrested and put in detention camps (16% neutral)● Only 39% disagreed that illegal immigrants contribute more to society than they take (16% neutral)Kansans are divided and ambivalent about illegal immigration. This does not explain support for Trump.This puzzle brings to mind Thomas Frank’s 2004 book, What’s the Matter with Kansas? Frank suggested that Kansans vote against their true economic interests, instead choosing conservative candidates due to culture war issues like opposition to abortion and to LGBTQ+ rights. However, this is not borne out either by Kansas Speaks or by the state’s 2022 vote on abortion rights, where the pro-choice stance prevailed by an 18% margin.Likewise, Kansas Speaks offers few clues as to why Kansans would continue to give supermajority support to Trump and his Republican allies. Is it because the Democratic Party is so unpopular these days? Probably not. Most of the Dems’ drop has come from their own supporters, angry at party leaders for not fighting harder against Trump. Also, the Republicans are similarly unpopular. Is there a “sleeper” issue missing from Kansas Speaks? Quite possibly. A recent Pew Charitable Trust poll of Americans found that the Republicans’ biggest advantage today is on fighting crime, and Kansas Speaks does not feature many questions about that.Perhaps the simplest explanation lies in just how much Kansans hate our entire political system today. Kansas Speaks respondents’ ratings of all elected officials and institutions were abysmal. The highest rating was only 47% approval for Governor Laura Kelly, the lowest was 21% approval for the U.S. Congress. Kansans may have simply decided that they have nothing to lose by voting for Trump to send a message. Or, they may have reverted to longstanding party ties, even if these no longer reflect the state’s political realities. No matter the explanation, this year’s poll shows that many of Kansans’ policy views are sharply at odds with the way they vote, raising questions that deserve more attention from scholars, reporters, and citizens alike.Michael Smith is a professor of political science at Emporia State University.

Insight Kansas: Why do Kansans support Trump?

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

At Fort Hays State University (FHSU), commitment to education runs deep, grounded in the rich soil of Kansas while simultaneously reaching across the globe. As we celebrate International Education Week, FHSU emphasizes its mission to prepare students for the complexities of a global society.

This week-long event not only demonstrates the university's engagement with students, faculty, and international partnerships but also highlights the significance of cultural exchange in developing the next generation of leaders. With over 4,000 international students from more than 40 countries, FHSU serves as a vibrant hub, allowing our campuses and the communities we serve to benefit from varied perspectives and experiences.

By bridging cultures and fostering collaboration, FHSU is not just nurturing local talent but also empowering students to tackle pressing global challenges. Ines Steeman, a senior from Belgium, Longwei Ngor from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Hugo Lopez from La Paz, Bolivia, each embody the theme "Rooted in Kansas — Reaching the World" at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). Their unique journeys reflect the university's mission to cultivate global citizens who appreciate their heritage while actively engaging with the wider world.

Ines Steeman is not only a student-athlete on the tennis team but also an active member of our Honor Society and the Public Relations Student Society of America. Her journey to FHSU began with a dream of studying in America, made possible by her passion for tennis. "I have always dreamed of studying in America but never thought I would have the chance to," Ines reflects.

Arriving with "an open mind, a lot of curiosity, and a little bit of fear," she quickly embraced the warm Midwestern hospitality and the close-knit atmosphere of FHSU. Ines was pleasantly surprised by the personal connections she established, stating, "Professors all know who I am, and I can go up to them with any questions." This contrasts sharply with her experiences in Belgium, where large classes made such interactions challenging. The sense of community at FHSU helped her grow into a more confident and resilient individual.

Her journey has deepened her understanding of cultural similarities and differences. "Studying abroad has enriched my life so much," she shares, acknowledging that while people may come from different backgrounds, "we are all more similar than different." Ines navigated challenges, such as homesickness, by forming supportive bonds with international students and initiating discussions about their shared experiences. "I opened up to my friends about this feeling, and it turns out we all felt that way," she recalls, highlighting how they created a space for each other to grow and support one another.

Looking ahead, Ines aspires to become a diplomat, equipped with skills she has honed at FHSU. "Fort Hays has given me the incredible opportunity of fine-tuning the skills of open-mindedness, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication." As an advocate for the transformative power of international education, she encourages others to embrace new experiences. "If you told me three years ago, I would be a Global Ambassador who studies Communications and does a lot of public speaking, I would have told you, 'No way!' And yet, here I am, doing all those things with so much joy!"

For Longwei Ngor, the path to FHSU began nearly 8,000 miles away at the American University of Phnom Penh, one of our global partners. He started his dual-degree program in Cambodia, taking FHSU classes online, before choosing to complete his senior year on our main campus. When he arrived in Hays, he discovered something unexpected: the peaceful atmosphere and warm, friendly community offered exactly the kind of American college experience he had hoped to find.

At FHSU, Longwei discovered a unique community where "professors and staff make you feel like part of a family," a contrast to the more formal educational environment he was accustomed to in Cambodia. This nurturing environment allowed him to flourish socially and academically, as he engaged more deeply in classroom discussions and campus life. He noted, "I’ve found myself hanging out and socializing way more than I used to, and it’s made campus life a lot more enjoyable."

Despite some initial challenges, such as adapting to the accelerated reading load and the interactive class format, Longwei's experiences helped him develop newfound independence and maturity. “The biggest challenge for me was keeping up with the reading and the pace of the classes, but ultimately, I found my rhythm.”

Longwei's experience in Kansas sparked a strong desire to actively share his cultural background. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed some regret about not having fully shown his heritage, admitting, "I kind of missed the chance to show more of where I come from." He did enjoy celebrating events like the Khmer New Year and highlighted the significance of cultural exchange: "Studying abroad helps build real connections between people from different parts of the world."

Longwei encourages others to embrace opportunities abroad, reinforcing the belief that "daring to challenge yourself and grow beyond borders" can lead to profound personal development and a broader perspective on the world. Currently back in Cambodia, working as an advocacy officer for AI and digital literacy at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, Longwei applies the skills he honed during his studies abroad.

Hugo Lopez was born in La Paz, Bolivia, but spent most of his life in Santa Cruz, a city known for its entrepreneurial energy, biodiversity, and vibrant culture. His journey to FHSU began through a new dual-degree partnership with Univalle, his university in Bolivia. “I embraced this opportunity to challenge myself academically, improve my English, and gain global experience.”

One of the most significant contrasts he noticed between Univalle and FHSU is the infrastructure supporting student life. “In Bolivia, students typically live off-campus, and all the services are dispersed throughout the university. At FHSU, the university offers a full ecosystem designed for student life.” This integrated environment creates a “dynamic and immersive experience that supports both academic and personal success.”

Hugo proudly represents his heritage, stating, “With deep respect, I’ve shared the richness of Bolivian culture.” He loves to introduce classmates to Bolivian customs and celebrations, highlighting “our emotional warmth, devotion to family, vibrant musical traditions, resilience, and loyalty.” During new student orientation, he gifted traditional amulets from Santa Cruz as symbols of connection, passionately discussing their cultural significance and the breathtaking biodiversity of his region. My husband, Bill, and I were among the lucky ones to receive one of Hugo’s gifts.

“Studying abroad has made me more independent than ever,” Hugo reflects. "Overcoming homesickness and representing Bolivia has fueled my drive to excel.” Hugo has learned that while “we come from different religions, habits, and cultures, we all share common goals: to grow, succeed, and enjoy life.”

Hugo has come to appreciate the value of student organizations. “Through Alpha Kappa Psi and the Society for Human Resource Management, I’ve built a strong network, developed friendships, and gained professional experience.” As a Global Ambassador, he states, “I’ve gained real professional experience in the U.S., developing a marketing plan to promote FHSU’s partnerships with Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil.” This role not only utilizes his Spanish but also empowers him to engage future international students.

“My plan is to complete my optional practical training in a management-related role in the U.S., then pursue a master’s degree in Europe,” he articulates, emphasizing his belief that “international education is essential. Not just for individuals, but for society too.” Through education, he sees a foundation for “fostering global understanding, cooperation, and preparing us to lead across borders.”

Hugo offers valuable advice for future international students: “Be proactive and open-minded. This helps you adapt to new food, traditions, and behaviors.” He encourages class participation, reminding them that “your unique background adds value. Share your knowledge with humility and confidence.” He concludes with reflections on comfort: “Invest in comfort. A good pillow, blanket, or candle can make your space feel like home.”

“If I could go back,” Hugo muses, “I’d remind myself: time passes quickly here. The sooner you adapt, the sooner you can truly enjoy every moment of the experience.” Through his story, alongside those of Ines and Longwei, Hugo exemplifies how rootedness in his culture allows him to reach across the world, contributing to a more collaborative and inclusive global society.

These students exemplify the importance of cultural exchange in encouraging understanding. Ines's diplomatic ambitions, Longwei's cultural advocacy, and Hugo's entrepreneurial spirit reflect the significant impact of a supportive educational environment in shaping future leaders. They illustrate that education extends beyond the classroom, thriving through dialogue, shared experiences, and mutual respect. Their unique stories demonstrate how education can break boundaries, encourage global citizenship, and prepare individuals for an interconnected world. As they embark on their paths, they carry the spirit of FHSU, ready to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

As we celebrate International Education Week and Thanksgiving, I am grateful to be part of a vibrant University that promotes cultural exchange and the sharing of ideas. The friendships&nbsp;forged among students, faculty, and staff worldwide create a rich environment where differences are appreciated and common ground is found.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761318630494.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentAt Fort Hays State University (FHSU), commitment to education runs deep, grounded in the rich soil of Kansas while simultaneously reaching across the globe. As we celebrate International Education Week, FHSU emphasizes its mission to prepare students for the complexities of a global society.This week-long event not only demonstrates the university's engagement with students, faculty, and international partnerships but also highlights the significance of cultural exchange in developing the next generation of leaders. With over 4,000 international students from more than 40 countries, FHSU serves as a vibrant hub, allowing our campuses and the communities we serve to benefit from varied perspectives and experiences.By bridging cultures and fostering collaboration, FHSU is not just nurturing local talent but also empowering students to tackle pressing global challenges. Ines Steeman, a senior from Belgium, Longwei Ngor from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Hugo Lopez from La Paz, Bolivia, each embody the theme "Rooted in Kansas — Reaching the World" at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). Their unique journeys reflect the university's mission to cultivate global citizens who appreciate their heritage while actively engaging with the wider world.Ines Steeman is not only a student-athlete on the tennis team but also an active member of our Honor Society and the Public Relations Student Society of America. Her journey to FHSU began with a dream of studying in America, made possible by her passion for tennis. "I have always dreamed of studying in America but never thought I would have the chance to," Ines reflects.Arriving with "an open mind, a lot of curiosity, and a little bit of fear," she quickly embraced the warm Midwestern hospitality and the close-knit atmosphere of FHSU. Ines was pleasantly surprised by the personal connections she established, stating, "Professors all know who I am, and I can go up to them with any questions." This contrasts sharply with her experiences in Belgium, where large classes made such interactions challenging. The sense of community at FHSU helped her grow into a more confident and resilient individual.Her journey has deepened her understanding of cultural similarities and differences. "Studying abroad has enriched my life so much," she shares, acknowledging that while people may come from different backgrounds, "we are all more similar than different." Ines navigated challenges, such as homesickness, by forming supportive bonds with international students and initiating discussions about their shared experiences. "I opened up to my friends about this feeling, and it turns out we all felt that way," she recalls, highlighting how they created a space for each other to grow and support one another.Looking ahead, Ines aspires to become a diplomat, equipped with skills she has honed at FHSU. "Fort Hays has given me the incredible opportunity of fine-tuning the skills of open-mindedness, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication." As an advocate for the transformative power of international education, she encourages others to embrace new experiences. "If you told me three years ago, I would be a Global Ambassador who studies Communications and does a lot of public speaking, I would have told you, 'No way!' And yet, here I am, doing all those things with so much joy!"For Longwei Ngor, the path to FHSU began nearly 8,000 miles away at the American University of Phnom Penh, one of our global partners. He started his dual-degree program in Cambodia, taking FHSU classes online, before choosing to complete his senior year on our main campus. When he arrived in Hays, he discovered something unexpected: the peaceful atmosphere and warm, friendly community offered exactly the kind of American college experience he had hoped to find.At FHSU, Longwei discovered a unique community where "professors and staff make you feel like part of a family," a contrast to the more formal educational environment he was accustomed to in Cambodia. This nurturing environment allowed him to flourish socially and academically, as he engaged more deeply in classroom discussions and campus life. He noted, "I’ve found myself hanging out and socializing way more than I used to, and it’s made campus life a lot more enjoyable."Despite some initial challenges, such as adapting to the accelerated reading load and the interactive class format, Longwei's experiences helped him develop newfound independence and maturity. “The biggest challenge for me was keeping up with the reading and the pace of the classes, but ultimately, I found my rhythm.”Longwei's experience in Kansas sparked a strong desire to actively share his cultural background. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed some regret about not having fully shown his heritage, admitting, "I kind of missed the chance to show more of where I come from." He did enjoy celebrating events like the Khmer New Year and highlighted the significance of cultural exchange: "Studying abroad helps build real connections between people from different parts of the world."Longwei encourages others to embrace opportunities abroad, reinforcing the belief that "daring to challenge yourself and grow beyond borders" can lead to profound personal development and a broader perspective on the world. Currently back in Cambodia, working as an advocacy officer for AI and digital literacy at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, Longwei applies the skills he honed during his studies abroad.Hugo Lopez was born in La Paz, Bolivia, but spent most of his life in Santa Cruz, a city known for its entrepreneurial energy, biodiversity, and vibrant culture. His journey to FHSU began through a new dual-degree partnership with Univalle, his university in Bolivia. “I embraced this opportunity to challenge myself academically, improve my English, and gain global experience.”One of the most significant contrasts he noticed between Univalle and FHSU is the infrastructure supporting student life. “In Bolivia, students typically live off-campus, and all the services are dispersed throughout the university. At FHSU, the university offers a full ecosystem designed for student life.” This integrated environment creates a “dynamic and immersive experience that supports both academic and personal success.”Hugo proudly represents his heritage, stating, “With deep respect, I’ve shared the richness of Bolivian culture.” He loves to introduce classmates to Bolivian customs and celebrations, highlighting “our emotional warmth, devotion to family, vibrant musical traditions, resilience, and loyalty.” During new student orientation, he gifted traditional amulets from Santa Cruz as symbols of connection, passionately discussing their cultural significance and the breathtaking biodiversity of his region. My husband, Bill, and I were among the lucky ones to receive one of Hugo’s gifts.“Studying abroad has made me more independent than ever,” Hugo reflects. "Overcoming homesickness and representing Bolivia has fueled my drive to excel.” Hugo has learned that while “we come from different religions, habits, and cultures, we all share common goals: to grow, succeed, and enjoy life.”Hugo has come to appreciate the value of student organizations. “Through Alpha Kappa Psi and the Society for Human Resource Management, I’ve built a strong network, developed friendships, and gained professional experience.” As a Global Ambassador, he states, “I’ve gained real professional experience in the U.S., developing a marketing plan to promote FHSU’s partnerships with Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil.” This role not only utilizes his Spanish but also empowers him to engage future international students.“My plan is to complete my optional practical training in a management-related role in the U.S., then pursue a master’s degree in Europe,” he articulates, emphasizing his belief that “international education is essential. Not just for individuals, but for society too.” Through education, he sees a foundation for “fostering global understanding, cooperation, and preparing us to lead across borders.”Hugo offers valuable advice for future international students: “Be proactive and open-minded. This helps you adapt to new food, traditions, and behaviors.” He encourages class participation, reminding them that “your unique background adds value. Share your knowledge with humility and confidence.” He concludes with reflections on comfort: “Invest in comfort. A good pillow, blanket, or candle can make your space feel like home.”“If I could go back,” Hugo muses, “I’d remind myself: time passes quickly here. The sooner you adapt, the sooner you can truly enjoy every moment of the experience.” Through his story, alongside those of Ines and Longwei, Hugo exemplifies how rootedness in his culture allows him to reach across the world, contributing to a more collaborative and inclusive global society.These students exemplify the importance of cultural exchange in encouraging understanding. Ines's diplomatic ambitions, Longwei's cultural advocacy, and Hugo's entrepreneurial spirit reflect the significant impact of a supportive educational environment in shaping future leaders. They illustrate that education extends beyond the classroom, thriving through dialogue, shared experiences, and mutual respect. Their unique stories demonstrate how education can break boundaries, encourage global citizenship, and prepare individuals for an interconnected world. As they embark on their paths, they carry the spirit of FHSU, ready to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.As we celebrate International Education Week and Thanksgiving, I am grateful to be part of a vibrant University that promotes cultural exchange and the sharing of ideas. The friendships&nbsp;forged among students, faculty, and staff worldwide create a rich environment where differences are appreciated and common ground is found.

Heart of a Tiger: Rooted in Kansas–reaching the world

During a fishing trip on La Sal Mountain when I was 8, I caught my first mud puppy. Apparently, someone fished this pond using these oddly named amphibians as bait and lost enough that survivors reproduced. We found several that day. At 8, I considered them miniature dinosaurs and tucked that memory into my childhood Awesome Event folder. After that experience, I saw these only in bait shops.

My next sort-of-mud puppy experience occurred in 1993 when Big Creek threatened to burst its banks. Like many folks living in the flood plain, stacks of empty sand bags and giant piles of wet sand filled our driveway. While we stuffed seemingly endless containers, our daughter screamed bloody murder while pointing at an equally frightened tiger salamander with tail in the air to make itself look bigger. We calmed sis with the explanation that this was Kansas’ state amphibian, and we’d disturbed its home. Her dad shared stories of finding them when he was a kid. During that conversation he mentioned salamanders begin life as mud puppies with funny looking gills. Ah, memory retrieval time for mom.

As we tied stuffed sand bags designed to protect ours and the neighbors’ house from rising water, I envisioned 8-year-old snaggle-toothed me playing with goofy-looking amphibians on that Utah mountain. How interesting to learn the dark brown and yellow spotted critter with a tail that initiated our child’s screams was once a mud puppy.

Over years, we’ve spied more salamanders, but they’re shy. I’ve seen more in museum collections than in the wild. That is until recently.

My husband walks our little terrier morning and evening to work out her extra energy and help her digestive system function at peak performance. She came home one morning prancing and dancing more than usual. Clearly, they’d had an adventure.

Sure enough, she discovered treasure--a salamander outside our shed door. By the time I investigated her find, it had vanished. However, I noticed a little burrow in soft flower bed soil, which I attributed to a wolf spider winter den.

A couple weeks following this incident, the pooch and gramps returned from a dusk sojourn with treasure in hand. Gramps had picked up a salamander smaller than the previous visitor to show gramma. He also thought to snag a clothes pin for a photo reference.

We set the little guy next to the clothes pin in a small bowl and told it to pose. It definitely understood, letting me snap photos to send grandkids.

Once we released it, I googled salamanders to learn that this time of year local species migrate into spring breeding territories (Seems early, right?). Considering we don’t have a pond or creek in our yard, the water source where it will lay eggs next spring is nearby. Despite lack of an on-site water hole, we do have loose soil filled with roly polies and worms suitable for winter room and board. I guessed wrong about wolf spider holes--a salamander claims that winter home.

I’m guessing when I see morning sun reflecting off that pond to the east, it will be full of frolicking mud puppies. How many salamander spots will we count next fall?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763485076630.jpeg" alt="Salamander. Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Salamander. Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN During a fishing trip on La Sal Mountain when I was 8, I caught my first mud puppy. Apparently, someone fished this pond using these oddly named amphibians as bait and lost enough that survivors reproduced. We found several that day. At 8, I considered them miniature dinosaurs and tucked that memory into my childhood Awesome Event folder. After that experience, I saw these only in bait shops.My next sort-of-mud puppy experience occurred in 1993 when Big Creek threatened to burst its banks. Like many folks living in the flood plain, stacks of empty sand bags and giant piles of wet sand filled our driveway. While we stuffed seemingly endless containers, our daughter screamed bloody murder while pointing at an equally frightened tiger salamander with tail in the air to make itself look bigger. We calmed sis with the explanation that this was Kansas’ state amphibian, and we’d disturbed its home. Her dad shared stories of finding them when he was a kid. During that conversation he mentioned salamanders begin life as mud puppies with funny looking gills. Ah, memory retrieval time for mom.As we tied stuffed sand bags designed to protect ours and the neighbors’ house from rising water, I envisioned 8-year-old snaggle-toothed me playing with goofy-looking amphibians on that Utah mountain. How interesting to learn the dark brown and yellow spotted critter with a tail that initiated our child’s screams was once a mud puppy.Over years, we’ve spied more salamanders, but they’re shy. I’ve seen more in museum collections than in the wild. That is until recently.My husband walks our little terrier morning and evening to work out her extra energy and help her digestive system function at peak performance. She came home one morning prancing and dancing more than usual. Clearly, they’d had an adventure.Sure enough, she discovered treasure--a salamander outside our shed door. By the time I investigated her find, it had vanished. However, I noticed a little burrow in soft flower bed soil, which I attributed to a wolf spider winter den.A couple weeks following this incident, the pooch and gramps returned from a dusk sojourn with treasure in hand. Gramps had picked up a salamander smaller than the previous visitor to show gramma. He also thought to snag a clothes pin for a photo reference.We set the little guy next to the clothes pin in a small bowl and told it to pose. It definitely understood, letting me snap photos to send grandkids.Once we released it, I googled salamanders to learn that this time of year local species migrate into spring breeding territories (Seems early, right?). Considering we don’t have a pond or creek in our yard, the water source where it will lay eggs next spring is nearby. Despite lack of an on-site water hole, we do have loose soil filled with roly polies and worms suitable for winter room and board. I guessed wrong about wolf spider holes--a salamander claims that winter home.I’m guessing when I see morning sun reflecting off that pond to the east, it will be full of frolicking mud puppies. How many salamander spots will we count next fall?Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Mud puppies all grown up

In the wide, rural plains of Kansas, where small towns and farming communities form the backbone of our state, access to health care for children is far from guaranteed.

That’s why the Children’s Health Act of 2000 matters deeply here in Ellis County and the surrounding region, even if it wasn’t written with rural Kansas specifically in mind.

The act, signed into law in October 2000, set out to expand research on childhood conditions such as Autism, birth defects, developmental disabilities, environmental health, children’s health in clinical trials, and traumatic brain injuries; strengthen safety standards for clinical, child-care, and related services for children.

These are clearly goals worth pursuing in rural communities, where children face a unique barrier—less access to pediatric specialists, distance from providers, and higher populations of uninsured or underinsured families.

What impact does this have on rural Kansas? The act helped highlight children’s health nationwide, not just in urban areas.

By authorizing new research and directing federal attention to childhood health and conditions, this legislation laid the groundwork for later efforts to close health care gaps between rural and urban populations.

Yet while research foundations were strengthened, rural Kansas continues to struggle with the practical reality of delivering care.

Many surrounding clinics and hospitals in neighboring communities are stretched thin.

Efforts to recruit professionals and keep services flowing are increasingly difficult for smaller clinics and hospitals.

Even in our county and neighboring counties, doctor shortages, including pediatric care physicians, require a plethora of families in western Kansas to travel long distances—100 miles—to access specialty care for their children.

Not to mention that providers may set appointments weeks or months in advance, ready access to care is often limited to the area where families live.

Drive across western or central Kansas, and you’ll see the quiet strength of our rural counties—hard-working families and individuals supporting their communities. Yet behind this strength lies a silent, pervasive challenge that families face.

This challenge is shared not just by families but also by the physicians and health care professionals who serve them.

Rural doctors often carry enormous responsibility, acting as both primary care providers and, at times, de facto specialists due to the shortage of pediatricians and other specialists.

The Children’s Health Act helped shed light on children’s health, but it also highlighted the immense burden placed on rural practitioners.

They must juggle large geographic areas, long hours and limited resources, all while striving to deliver quality care to every child who walks in their door.

Burnout and recruitment hurdles are constant threats, making it harder to retain the dedicated professionals rural Kansas needs.

The effects ripple through entire communities: when doctors are stretched thin or clinics close, families lose trusted relationships, and children lose continuity of care.

These gaps make it harder to detect developmental issues early or manage chronic conditions, compounding the disadvantages rural children already face. It’s not just a matter of distance; it’s a matter of opportunity and outcomes for the next generation.

There are steps we can take. Expanding telemedicine programs can help bridge distances and bring specialists into rural homes virtually.

State and federal incentives to recruit and retain health care workers in rural areas are essential — from loan forgiveness to housing support. 

Medical schools must also play a role in encouraging students from rural backgrounds to return home to practice medicine and in ensuring that all trainees understand the rewards and challenges of rural care.

Ultimately, the Children’s Health Act was a start, but not a solution. We need to keep children’s health at the forefront of policy and investment — and that means supporting the physicians and clinics that are the lifeblood of rural health care.

Our rural families deserve to see their children grow up healthy, with the same opportunities as any child in America—regardless of their ZIP code. 

We owe it to our neighbors, our future, and the spirit of rural Kansas to make children’s health not just a legislative priority, but a lived reality.

Ensuring healthy futures for our children—and supporting the doctors who care for them—will strengthen the fabric of our rural communities for generations to come.

— Gabrielle E. Gibbs of Russell, Master’s in social work student, Fort Hays State University

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In the wide, rural plains of Kansas, where small towns and farming communities form the backbone of our state, access to health care for children is far from guaranteed.That’s why the Children’s Health Act of 2000 matters deeply here in Ellis County and the surrounding region, even if it wasn’t written with rural Kansas specifically in mind.The act, signed into law in October 2000, set out to expand research on childhood conditions such as Autism, birth defects, developmental disabilities, environmental health, children’s health in clinical trials, and traumatic brain injuries; strengthen safety standards for clinical, child-care, and related services for children.These are clearly goals worth pursuing in rural communities, where children face a unique barrier—less access to pediatric specialists, distance from providers, and higher populations of uninsured or underinsured families.What impact does this have on rural Kansas? The act helped highlight children’s health nationwide, not just in urban areas.By authorizing new research and directing federal attention to childhood health and conditions, this legislation laid the groundwork for later efforts to close health care gaps between rural and urban populations.Yet while research foundations were strengthened, rural Kansas continues to struggle with the practical reality of delivering care.Many surrounding clinics and hospitals in neighboring communities are stretched thin.Efforts to recruit professionals and keep services flowing are increasingly difficult for smaller clinics and hospitals.Even in our county and neighboring counties, doctor shortages, including pediatric care physicians, require a plethora of families in western Kansas to travel long distances—100 miles—to access specialty care for their children.Not to mention that providers may set appointments weeks or months in advance, ready access to care is often limited to the area where families live.Drive across western or central Kansas, and you’ll see the quiet strength of our rural counties—hard-working families and individuals supporting their communities. Yet behind this strength lies a silent, pervasive challenge that families face.This challenge is shared not just by families but also by the physicians and health care professionals who serve them.Rural doctors often carry enormous responsibility, acting as both primary care providers and, at times, de facto specialists due to the shortage of pediatricians and other specialists.The Children’s Health Act helped shed light on children’s health, but it also highlighted the immense burden placed on rural practitioners.They must juggle large geographic areas, long hours and limited resources, all while striving to deliver quality care to every child who walks in their door.Burnout and recruitment hurdles are constant threats, making it harder to retain the dedicated professionals rural Kansas needs.The effects ripple through entire communities: when doctors are stretched thin or clinics close, families lose trusted relationships, and children lose continuity of care.These gaps make it harder to detect developmental issues early or manage chronic conditions, compounding the disadvantages rural children already face. It’s not just a matter of distance; it’s a matter of opportunity and outcomes for the next generation.There are steps we can take. Expanding telemedicine programs can help bridge distances and bring specialists into rural homes virtually.State and federal incentives to recruit and retain health care workers in rural areas are essential — from loan forgiveness to housing support. Medical schools must also play a role in encouraging students from rural backgrounds to return home to practice medicine and in ensuring that all trainees understand the rewards and challenges of rural care.Ultimately, the Children’s Health Act was a start, but not a solution. We need to keep children’s health at the forefront of policy and investment — and that means supporting the physicians and clinics that are the lifeblood of rural health care.Our rural families deserve to see their children grow up healthy, with the same opportunities as any child in America—regardless of their ZIP code. We owe it to our neighbors, our future, and the spirit of rural Kansas to make children’s health not just a legislative priority, but a lived reality.Ensuring healthy futures for our children—and supporting the doctors who care for them—will strengthen the fabric of our rural communities for generations to come.— Gabrielle E. Gibbs of Russell, Master’s in social work student, Fort Hays State University

Opinion: Hidden struggle for children’s health in rural Kansas

By BILL FIANDER Insight Kansas

In a world of cancelled flights, SNAP ping-pong, gerrymanders run amok, and “Dancing with the Stars” blackouts, it was refreshing to see an old friend – the town hall budget meeting – could not be shut down last week.&nbsp;

Billed as a statewide listening tour to guide her penultimate 2026&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/796/55">“People’s Budget”</a>, I attended Governor Kelly’s fifth stop at the Leawood community center in Johnson County to hear some old-fashioned Q&amp;A about budget priorities.

Intimately adorned with only microphones, chairs, and ideas for muses, the Governor and Budget Director/Secretary of Administration (Adam Proffitt) went full MTV Unplugged to hear from Kansans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757520322866.jpeg" alt="Bill Fiander, Washburn University, is a university lecturer in Kansas specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government.&nbsp; Photo by Megan Martin" />
 <figcaption>Bill Fiander, Washburn University, is a university lecturer in Kansas specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government.&nbsp; Photo by Megan Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BILL FIANDER Insight KansasIn a world of cancelled flights, SNAP ping-pong, gerrymanders run amok, and “Dancing with the Stars” blackouts, it was refreshing to see an old friend – the town hall budget meeting – could not be shut down last week.&nbsp;Billed as a statewide listening tour to guide her penultimate 2026&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/796/55">“People’s Budget”</a>, I attended Governor Kelly’s fifth stop at the Leawood community center in Johnson County to hear some old-fashioned Q&amp;A about budget priorities.Intimately adorned with only microphones, chairs, and ideas for muses, the Governor and Budget Director/Secretary of Administration (Adam Proffitt) went full MTV Unplugged to hear from Kansans.But it was not stripped-down acoustic rock songs we heard. Instead, the respectful crowd heard a budgetary medley of old hits, new material, and deep cuts that included:• “She Works Hard for the Money” – Kelly is a notorious budget wonk. She admitted her obsession with the budget, forged through years as a legislator during the Brownback tax experiment. She considers it to be the most important thing she does. She and Proffitt contrasted the “People’s Budget” tour with the part-time Legislature’s confusing, shortsighted, and rogue budget process last session to which few in the public and front-facing agencies were invited.&nbsp;• “Mr. Brightside” – Due in part to Proffitt’s elimination of budget maneuvers and accounting tricks inherited from Brownback/Colyer, the rainy-day fund has gone from zero to $2B. Kelly and he contrasted paying cash for the state’s two new office buildings in downtown Topeka vs. the Legislature’s unnecessary bonding ($325 million) and 4% flat income tax path as ominous warnings of “dark days” nobody wants to go back to.• “Carry on Wayward Son” – While there was consternation about the welfare of children (childcare crisis, foster care, pre-K, etc.), Kelly hit a different note when asked about priorities to stem the state’s loss of younger adults. The focus on big economic development gains – like Panasonic in DeSoto and Hilmar Cheese in Dodge City – and attainable housing production must remain budget priorities to give young or boomerang Kansans a place to lay their weary heads.• “Be True to Your School” – Fully funding public schools for the last seven years is certainly a greatest hit she does not mind spinning again. But maybe some notes were off key. Both the federal government and Kansas Legislature have woefully underfunded their statutory obligations to cover a percentage of special education costs in our school districts. This forces schools to rob Peter – general students - to pay Paul – special ed students. The angriest public rant (if you can call it that) also made it known retired schoolteachers have not seen a COLA increase since 1998.&nbsp;• “Friends in Low Places” – For an encore, I asked Kelly about property tax solutions. Not a fan of caps and gimmicks, her main advice…sit down&nbsp;with&nbsp;local municipalities. They are the ones with the most to lose. Not the state. She pondered if state “unfunded mandates” on local government is a stone worth turning over. Given 100% of all property taxes ultimately goes to local government services, legislators might want to slip on down to the Oasis to visit their friends.Budgets, not laws, deliver services. Good budgets don’t have to be rock shows. Stripped down, you’ll hear pitch perfect dynamics of people’s needs, values, and dreams. In a time where seemingly nothing worked as it should, it took meeting people where they are to bring meaning back to how it should.&nbsp;Bill Fiander, Washburn University, is a university lecturer in Kansas specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government.