By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Well, March is about to show us whether she will go out like a lion or a lamb, which means the 2025 Kansas spring wild turkey season is in the “wings” (you see what I did there?)

 If you haven’t already, now is the time to begin preparations. Check out your camo, which seems to shrink each year as you get older. Camouflage is important in hunting most everything, but is probably most important when hunting wild turkeys, as they have eyesight like no other, and can spot suspicious movement from an unbelievable distance.

I’ve never been much of a “purist” in anything I do, but especially not when hunting wild turkeys. The guys that make the videos and sell the calls and other turkey hunting gear often park themselves against a tree next to a clearing. They put their decoy directly in front of them in the clearing and attempt to call the birds into the decoy in the clearing. That makes for really good videos, but doesn’t work for me, as I can’t hold still enough or be quiet enough, long enough to make it work. It was either adapt to my weaknesses or go “turkeyless.” 

So, I have learned to set myself in some cover along the route I hope the turkeys will travel and put the decoy in front of me but well off to one side or the other, which draws the gobbler’s attention away from me as they hone in on the decoy. This amounts to more of an ambush, but has harvested me more turkeys that trying to be something I’m just not. Also, if morning hunting, be careful NOT to set up too close to their roost, and choose a spot where you can come-and-go without being seen.

Also take your shotgun out and shoot a few shells through it so you know just where it is shooting. That sounds funny, since after all, you are using a shotgun, but trust me when I say, turkeys can be missed. 

Shells recommended for turkey hunting contain big BB’s so there are way fewer of them in a shell, and they can only wound a turkey or miss altogether because you are shooting at the neck and head, which are relatively small targets. The rule of thumb I have read, is to aim at the point on a turkey’s neck where the feathers begin, that should put BB’s in its head as well as its neck and kill the bird cleanly.

Turkey calling is another contentious subject, especially to the more purist hunters. 

In my opinion, its good and helpful to study and learn basic turkey calling techniques, but don’t let fear of making the wrong sounds keep you from hunting. While its good to know enough so you are not screaming out bad things about a gobbler’s mother, I feel its much more important to be camouflaged correctly at the right location, be quiet, be still and have confidence in your shooting than it is to be a champion turkey caller.

There you have it as Kansas spring turkey season is almost here. Turkey numbers in some parts of the state have been on the decline the last few years, but good turkey hunting can still be found. So, get your permit and take a friend or a kid turkey hunting this year. It’s a great way to introduce someone to hunting and to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be emailed at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors Well, March is about to show us whether she will go out like a lion or a lamb, which means the 2025 Kansas spring wild turkey season is in the “wings” (you see what I did there?) If you haven’t already, now is the time to begin preparations. Check out your camo, which seems to shrink each year as you get older. Camouflage is important in hunting most everything, but is probably most important when hunting wild turkeys, as they have eyesight like no other, and can spot suspicious movement from an unbelievable distance.I’ve never been much of a “purist” in anything I do, but especially not when hunting wild turkeys. The guys that make the videos and sell the calls and other turkey hunting gear often park themselves against a tree next to a clearing. They put their decoy directly in front of them in the clearing and attempt to call the birds into the decoy in the clearing. That makes for really good videos, but doesn’t work for me, as I can’t hold still enough or be quiet enough, long enough to make it work. It was either adapt to my weaknesses or go “turkeyless.” So, I have learned to set myself in some cover along the route I hope the turkeys will travel and put the decoy in front of me but well off to one side or the other, which draws the gobbler’s attention away from me as they hone in on the decoy. This amounts to more of an ambush, but has harvested me more turkeys that trying to be something I’m just not. Also, if morning hunting, be careful NOT to set up too close to their roost, and choose a spot where you can come-and-go without being seen.Also take your shotgun out and shoot a few shells through it so you know just where it is shooting. That sounds funny, since after all, you are using a shotgun, but trust me when I say, turkeys can be missed. Shells recommended for turkey hunting contain big BB’s so there are way fewer of them in a shell, and they can only wound a turkey or miss altogether because you are shooting at the neck and head, which are relatively small targets. The rule of thumb I have read, is to aim at the point on a turkey’s neck where the feathers begin, that should put BB’s in its head as well as its neck and kill the bird cleanly.Turkey calling is another contentious subject, especially to the more purist hunters. In my opinion, its good and helpful to study and learn basic turkey calling techniques, but don’t let fear of making the wrong sounds keep you from hunting. While its good to know enough so you are not screaming out bad things about a gobbler’s mother, I feel its much more important to be camouflaged correctly at the right location, be quiet, be still and have confidence in your shooting than it is to be a champion turkey caller.There you have it as Kansas spring turkey season is almost here. Turkey numbers in some parts of the state have been on the decline the last few years, but good turkey hunting can still be found. So, get your permit and take a friend or a kid turkey hunting this year. It’s a great way to introduce someone to hunting and to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be emailed at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Preparation for 2025 Kansas spring turkey season

By BILL FIANDER Insight Kansas

It’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;

Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.

So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.

And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.

Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1611/">SCR 1611</a>, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!

That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.

On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/Judges/Become-a-Judge/Supreme-Court-Nominating-Commission">merit-based selection process</a>&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/get-involved/kansas-stories/people/tv-the-triple-play-and-the-man-from-dodge">triple-play scandal</a>, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;

But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">debate</a>, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;

Today,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ballotpedia.org/Initiative_and_referendum">26 states</a>&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.

Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;

So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_036_0001.html">Kansas Constitution</a>&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.

Sixty-four percent states with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/full-and-part-time-legislatures">part-time "citizen" legislatures</a>, like Kansas, allow it.

Most of all, big issues&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-final.10.28.24.v3-corrected-final-bullet-in-exec-sum-to-now-compare-2024-and-2023-results2.pdf">supported</a>&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;

Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_fed_st_1/documents/testimony/20250225_01.pdf">believes</a>&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”

I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708024541249.jpeg" alt="Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BILL FIANDER Insight KansasIt’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1611/">SCR 1611</a>, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/Judges/Become-a-Judge/Supreme-Court-Nominating-Commission">merit-based selection process</a>&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/get-involved/kansas-stories/people/tv-the-triple-play-and-the-man-from-dodge">triple-play scandal</a>, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">debate</a>, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ballotpedia.org/Initiative_and_referendum">26 states</a>&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_036_0001.html">Kansas Constitution</a>&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.Sixty-four percent states with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/full-and-part-time-legislatures">part-time "citizen" legislatures</a>, like Kansas, allow it.Most of all, big issues&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-final.10.28.24.v3-corrected-final-bullet-in-exec-sum-to-now-compare-2024-and-2023-results2.pdf">supported</a>&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_fed_st_1/documents/testimony/20250225_01.pdf">believes</a>&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Insight Kansas: Electing the Supreme Court? Why stop there?

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

A Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.

Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.

“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of Callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.

For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.

Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators. · It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth. · Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.

“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.

Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.

The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.

Rastok said not counting such human activities as &nbsp;urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”

Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. 

More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasforests.org/">www.kansasforests.org</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictA Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of Callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742917001894.png" alt="Callery or Bradford pear tree. Photo by Kelly Oten/North Carolina State Extension" />
 <figcaption>Callery or Bradford pear tree. Photo by Kelly Oten/North Carolina State Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators. · It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth. · Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.And, Rastok says, it smells.“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.Rastok said not counting such human activities as &nbsp;urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasforests.org/">www.kansasforests.org</a>.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Invasive Callery pear trees

By STACEY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Last year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn,&nbsp;corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. 

It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. 

High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late-planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.

Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.

In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. 

Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. 

To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.

This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.

Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.

Corn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for one month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. 

According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.

The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. 

All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgLuWWSwHWU">https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU</a>.

If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 785-628-9430.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell&nbsp;is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp;is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACEY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictLast year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn,&nbsp;corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late-planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.Chemical ControlCorn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for one month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgLuWWSwHWU">https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU</a>.If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 785-628-9430.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Corn Stunt disease – A new threat to Kansas corn

Editor's note: This letter was sent in response to a letter and comments from Hays USD 489 board member Derek Yarmer. See the related stories.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52e53c90-5182-42f0-919e-2c7dc145305b">SEE RELATED STORY: Opinion Hays USD 489 board member critical of use of bond, capital funds.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e4ec7011-734d-4c18-ab28-c5b38d236126">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 board votes not to add another manager for bond work</a>

What I have learned during my career as a Superintendent of Schools is that sometimes people get so focused on trying to find problems that they forget to notice all the wonderful things that are happening around them. As we are well over the halfway point of all our bond projects, I celebrate the growth that has already occurred in some of our schools with new bond project additions and updated renovations that have been completed to this point, along with those projects still under construction and those coming soon. &nbsp;I often like to say that change is inevitable for everyone, but growth is optional for some. My hope is those that want to still be critical of our bond can grow in their understanding of how important it is to have great schools in our community and that also means having great facilities.

I realize that “arm chair quarterbacking” of bond projects is par for the course, but what I don’t want us to lose sight of is all the good stuff that we are doing in creating a better future for our students, staff, and community. A prime function of my responsibility as the leader of our school district is giving students, staff, and our community&nbsp;everything they deserve. When I came to this district six years ago as the superintendent, I began saying that we have to stop settling for the schools and facilities that we have, and we need to start building for schools that we deserve. &nbsp;We will continue to do that despite the critics! Building To Great- It’s The Hays 489 Way!

Ron Wilson Hays USD 489 superintendent of schools

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584045030403.png" alt="USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's note: This letter was sent in response to a letter and comments from Hays USD 489 board member Derek Yarmer. See the related stories.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52e53c90-5182-42f0-919e-2c7dc145305b">SEE RELATED STORY: Opinion Hays USD 489 board member critical of use of bond, capital funds.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e4ec7011-734d-4c18-ab28-c5b38d236126">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 board votes not to add another manager for bond work</a>What I have learned during my career as a Superintendent of Schools is that sometimes people get so focused on trying to find problems that they forget to notice all the wonderful things that are happening around them. As we are well over the halfway point of all our bond projects, I celebrate the growth that has already occurred in some of our schools with new bond project additions and updated renovations that have been completed to this point, along with those projects still under construction and those coming soon. &nbsp;I often like to say that change is inevitable for everyone, but growth is optional for some. My hope is those that want to still be critical of our bond can grow in their understanding of how important it is to have great schools in our community and that also means having great facilities.I realize that “arm chair quarterbacking” of bond projects is par for the course, but what I don’t want us to lose sight of is all the good stuff that we are doing in creating a better future for our students, staff, and community. A prime function of my responsibility as the leader of our school district is giving students, staff, and our community&nbsp;everything they deserve. When I came to this district six years ago as the superintendent, I began saying that we have to stop settling for the schools and facilities that we have, and we need to start building for schools that we deserve. &nbsp;We will continue to do that despite the critics! Building To Great- It’s The Hays 489 Way!Ron Wilson Hays USD 489 superintendent of schools

Opinion: Hays USD 489 Superintendent: Everything they deserve

Editor's note: After board member Derek Yarmer said he thought the community was not getting everything residents expected out of the bond projects during a school board meeting on Monday, the Hays Post asked him to elaborate with more specifics.

Yarmer responded with the following written statement via email. It is included here in its entirety.

We are using money out of the capital outlay fund (which is meant to maintain our facilities) for things that should be covered under the bond.

Looking at the bond project on the large scale:

The bond was passed for $143.5 million with the promise to completely build, equip, and furnish a new high school campus. The bond also promised to renovate, make additions to, equip, and furnish the other buildings in the district (O’Loughlin, Roosevelt, Wilson, the current Hays Middle School and the current Hays High School).

The bond money is now projected to be $164.9 million after accruing interest, collecting returns on investments, and the sales of district property. Even after the additional $21.5 million, we are spending millions of dollars out of other funds and will still not address some of the major concerns brought forward by the bond planning committee.

1. The current Hays High School is a 124,000-square-foot structure that was found to be in poor condition prior to passing the bond.

• Planned renovations through the bond are $7 million.&nbsp; • The current plans don’t address the plumbing, which received a 1/5 score from the Planning Committee • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending money in addition to the bond of: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $645,000 for roofing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $710,000 for classroom/bathroom updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $500,000 for parking lot (a large new parking lot already exists there, and as a new middle school, the building will not require as many parking spots) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $75,000 for lockers and paint

2. The current Hays Middle School is a 102,730-square-foot structure that was found to have multiple deficiencies prior to passing the bond.

• Planned renovations through the bond are $3.8 million • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending money in addition to the bond of: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $175,000 for asbestos removal &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $260,000 for roofing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $175,000 for furniture &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $660,000 for room renovation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e. $150,000 for playground relocation

3. Wilson Elementary is a 40,206-square-foot structure found to be in poor condition prior to passing the bond.

• The initial bond called for the renovation of Wilson, but currently, there are no funds allocated for the building through the bond. • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $1.5 million to remodel rooms &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $150,000 for A/V renovations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $30,000 for tuck point &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $500,000 for warehouse/maintenance shop &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e. $160,000 for roofing

The 3-year average of expenditures from the capital outlay fund prior to starting the bond was $3.5 million per year.

Since passing the bond, we are projected to spend $6.4 million in 2024-25, $5.3 million in 2025-26, and $5.5 million in 2026-27, respectively.

It is my opinion that the school’s administration has failed to follow through on its promise to the taxpayers of USD 489 regarding its use of the bond money. 

I have spoken to members of the bond planning committees, and there was supposed to be an oversight committee to make sure that the funds were being used properly. 

Ron Wilson lacks the capability to effectively manage the bond project, and I believe he has poor judgment regarding spending priorities for the district. 

We are spending $753,700 for a concession stand, $777,680 for digital score boards, $687,937 for tennis courts, and $66,364 for a marquee sign this year, while putting off roofing projects and classroom remodeling for years to come. 

After the taxpayers graciously approved a bond which gave the administration $164.9 million to improve the school district, we are still taxing citizens at the highest rate possible and spending over $2 million more each year from the capital outlay fund than before the bond passed. 

The school board is also to blame for this reckless spending by failing to provide proper oversight of the school administration, and for this I am sorry.

— Derek Yarmer, Hays USD 489 school board member

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706030081038.jpeg" alt="Board members Derek Yarmer, left, and Jayme Goetz, right, at a past school board meeting. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Board members Derek Yarmer, left, and Jayme Goetz, right, at a past school board meeting. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's note: After board member Derek Yarmer said he thought the community was not getting everything residents expected out of the bond projects during a school board meeting on Monday, the Hays Post asked him to elaborate with more specifics.Yarmer responded with the following written statement via email. It is included here in its entirety.We are using money out of the capital outlay fund (which is meant to maintain our facilities) for things that should be covered under the bond.Looking at the bond project on the large scale:The bond was passed for $143.5 million with the promise to completely build, equip, and furnish a new high school campus. The bond also promised to renovate, make additions to, equip, and furnish the other buildings in the district (O’Loughlin, Roosevelt, Wilson, the current Hays Middle School and the current Hays High School).The bond money is now projected to be $164.9 million after accruing interest, collecting returns on investments, and the sales of district property. Even after the additional $21.5 million, we are spending millions of dollars out of other funds and will still not address some of the major concerns brought forward by the bond planning committee.1. The current Hays High School is a 124,000-square-foot structure that was found to be in poor condition prior to passing the bond.• Planned renovations through the bond are $7 million.&nbsp; • The current plans don’t address the plumbing, which received a 1/5 score from the Planning Committee • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending money in addition to the bond of: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $645,000 for roofing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $710,000 for classroom/bathroom updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $500,000 for parking lot (a large new parking lot already exists there, and as a new middle school, the building will not require as many parking spots) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $75,000 for lockers and paint2. The current Hays Middle School is a 102,730-square-foot structure that was found to have multiple deficiencies prior to passing the bond.• Planned renovations through the bond are $3.8 million • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending money in addition to the bond of: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $175,000 for asbestos removal &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $260,000 for roofing &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $175,000 for furniture &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $660,000 for room renovation &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e. $150,000 for playground relocation3. Wilson Elementary is a 40,206-square-foot structure found to be in poor condition prior to passing the bond.• The initial bond called for the renovation of Wilson, but currently, there are no funds allocated for the building through the bond. • The current 5-year capital outlay plan calls for spending:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a. $1.5 million to remodel rooms &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b. $150,000 for A/V renovations &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c. $30,000 for tuck point &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d. $500,000 for warehouse/maintenance shop &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e. $160,000 for roofingThe 3-year average of expenditures from the capital outlay fund prior to starting the bond was $3.5 million per year.Since passing the bond, we are projected to spend $6.4 million in 2024-25, $5.3 million in 2025-26, and $5.5 million in 2026-27, respectively.It is my opinion that the school’s administration has failed to follow through on its promise to the taxpayers of USD 489 regarding its use of the bond money. I have spoken to members of the bond planning committees, and there was supposed to be an oversight committee to make sure that the funds were being used properly. Ron Wilson lacks the capability to effectively manage the bond project, and I believe he has poor judgment regarding spending priorities for the district. We are spending $753,700 for a concession stand, $777,680 for digital score boards, $687,937 for tennis courts, and $66,364 for a marquee sign this year, while putting off roofing projects and classroom remodeling for years to come. After the taxpayers graciously approved a bond which gave the administration $164.9 million to improve the school district, we are still taxing citizens at the highest rate possible and spending over $2 million more each year from the capital outlay fund than before the bond passed. The school board is also to blame for this reckless spending by failing to provide proper oversight of the school administration, and for this I am sorry.— Derek Yarmer, Hays USD 489 school board member

Opinion: Hays USD 489 board member critical of use of bond, capital funds

By TISA MASON FHSU President This summer, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) will embark on a much-anticipated renovation of its cadaver lab—an essential facility that has served the Department of Biological Sciences since the 1998-2000 renovation of Albertson Hall. Having transitioned from a theater-style lecture hall, the cadaver lab on the third floor has facilitated hands-on learning for students enrolled in human anatomy courses for more than two decades. However, time has not been kind to this vital space. With outdated features and a design that needs a modern touch, the upcoming renovations promise to significantly enhance the educational experience for future generations.

Since its establishment, the cadaver lab has provided crucial resources for students interested in the medical and health professions. It currently accommodates 6-8 cadavers. While invaluable to learning anatomy, the facility has faced significant challenges. The lab's original oak cabinets are tarnished with chemical residue, the flooring has deteriorated, and the current autopsy tables are not conducive to practical cadaver preservation. Furthermore, the absence of modern audio-visual aids has limited the potential for interactive and efficient teaching methodologies.

Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, professor and chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, highlighted how the lab has become outdated. The partitioned research space has left the lab cramped and dim, inhibiting a conducive learning environment. Instructors have been unable to project images or utilize modern teaching aids, which has stifled innovative teaching methods in anatomy courses.

Updating the cadaver lab is crucial for providing the highest quality of anatomical education for students pursuing careers in various healthcare fields. I know these state-of-the-art facilities will provide a competitive advantage for our students. Modernizing the cadaver lab demonstrates FHSU’s relentless commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” said FHSU alum and Cadaver Lab donor, Dr. Michael Artman.

“Updating the cadaver lab is crucial for providing the highest quality of anatomical education for students pursuing careers in various healthcare fields,” emphasized Dr. Phelps-Durr, reinforcing the need for modern facilities that align with current educational standards.

The renovation will see several significant enhancements, including space optimization, modernization of the facility, enhanced technological capabilities, and flexibility in learning.

Removing the partition wall will create a larger, more open space that integrates a research area within the lab, allowing instructors to blend research with hands-on dissections and creating space optimization.

All furniture and flooring will be replaced with stainless steel materials that are easier to clean and better suited for a laboratory environment. New cadaver tables have already been obtained, enhancing preservation techniques.

Enhanced technological capabilities will bring essential audio-visual components, including individual computers at each dissection table, an instructor station, and a camera mounted over one cadaver to demonstrate dissection techniques.

Mobile student tables will allow space reconfiguration, accommodating innovative teaching methods such as virtual reality (VR) dissections—creating flexibility in learning and aligning FHSU with comparable facilities at peer institutions.

According to Dr. David Tarailo, lead Human Anatomy instructor, faculty involvement in planning has been critical, with input gathered to prioritize the lab's needs. Current students have also weighed in, suggesting the necessity of technology that supports their learning.

Student Alexis Hutton noted, “A screen or monitor would be the most helpful piece of technology...allowing the student to approach the identification more confidently.”

The anticipated outcomes from this renovation include enhanced learning experiences, improved research opportunities, and safety and maintenance improvements. Enhanced learning experiences are focused on technology integration and innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring students can use virtual reality capabilities to visualize and interact with anatomy in a way that previous generations could only dream of.

Creating a research area within the lab and including course-embedded undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) will make academic research accessible to all students, thereby improving research opportunities.

The new design will feature improved cleaning capabilities, addressing past odor and air quality concerns from improper drainage systems.

Funding for this ambitious project has come through state dollars, grants, and philanthropic support, showcasing the strong partnership between FHSU and various stakeholders, including the Kansas Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (K-INBRE). We are also very grateful for the philanthropy of many of our alumni and medical professionals who have helped make this renovation a reality. FHSU maintains a commitment to academic excellence and innovation as this collaboration unfolds.

The renovation is slated to begin this summer and extend into the fall semester of 2025. Students will utilize alternate classrooms and labs during this time, ensuring minimal disruption to their learning experiences.

The upgraded Cadaver Lab will enhance the educational experience for current students and elevate FHSU’s offerings. With improved facilities and advanced technology, students will benefit from a top-tier learning environment that prepares them for success in health sciences. At Fort Hays State University, we remain focused on delivering hands-on, meaningful, and transformative educational opportunities.

You, too, can join in this vital renovation project by investing in academic excellence at Fort Hays State University. Every gift makes a difference, no matter the size. If you would like to donate to the Cadaver Lab renovation, please get in touch with the FHSU Foundation Director of Development, Eric Depperschmidt, at 785-628-4527 or ejdepperschmidt@fhsu.edu.

I look forward to sharing this exciting transformation with our community at a fall ribbon-cutting celebration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU President This summer, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) will embark on a much-anticipated renovation of its cadaver lab—an essential facility that has served the Department of Biological Sciences since the 1998-2000 renovation of Albertson Hall. Having transitioned from a theater-style lecture hall, the cadaver lab on the third floor has facilitated hands-on learning for students enrolled in human anatomy courses for more than two decades. However, time has not been kind to this vital space. With outdated features and a design that needs a modern touch, the upcoming renovations promise to significantly enhance the educational experience for future generations.Since its establishment, the cadaver lab has provided crucial resources for students interested in the medical and health professions. It currently accommodates 6-8 cadavers. While invaluable to learning anatomy, the facility has faced significant challenges. The lab's original oak cabinets are tarnished with chemical residue, the flooring has deteriorated, and the current autopsy tables are not conducive to practical cadaver preservation. Furthermore, the absence of modern audio-visual aids has limited the potential for interactive and efficient teaching methodologies.Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, professor and chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, highlighted how the lab has become outdated. The partitioned research space has left the lab cramped and dim, inhibiting a conducive learning environment. Instructors have been unable to project images or utilize modern teaching aids, which has stifled innovative teaching methods in anatomy courses.Updating the cadaver lab is crucial for providing the highest quality of anatomical education for students pursuing careers in various healthcare fields. I know these state-of-the-art facilities will provide a competitive advantage for our students. Modernizing the cadaver lab demonstrates FHSU’s relentless commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” said FHSU alum and Cadaver Lab donor, Dr. Michael Artman.“Updating the cadaver lab is crucial for providing the highest quality of anatomical education for students pursuing careers in various healthcare fields,” emphasized Dr. Phelps-Durr, reinforcing the need for modern facilities that align with current educational standards.The renovation will see several significant enhancements, including space optimization, modernization of the facility, enhanced technological capabilities, and flexibility in learning.Removing the partition wall will create a larger, more open space that integrates a research area within the lab, allowing instructors to blend research with hands-on dissections and creating space optimization.All furniture and flooring will be replaced with stainless steel materials that are easier to clean and better suited for a laboratory environment. New cadaver tables have already been obtained, enhancing preservation techniques.Enhanced technological capabilities will bring essential audio-visual components, including individual computers at each dissection table, an instructor station, and a camera mounted over one cadaver to demonstrate dissection techniques.Mobile student tables will allow space reconfiguration, accommodating innovative teaching methods such as virtual reality (VR) dissections—creating flexibility in learning and aligning FHSU with comparable facilities at peer institutions.According to Dr. David Tarailo, lead Human Anatomy instructor, faculty involvement in planning has been critical, with input gathered to prioritize the lab's needs. Current students have also weighed in, suggesting the necessity of technology that supports their learning.Student Alexis Hutton noted, “A screen or monitor would be the most helpful piece of technology...allowing the student to approach the identification more confidently.”The anticipated outcomes from this renovation include enhanced learning experiences, improved research opportunities, and safety and maintenance improvements. Enhanced learning experiences are focused on technology integration and innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring students can use virtual reality capabilities to visualize and interact with anatomy in a way that previous generations could only dream of.Creating a research area within the lab and including course-embedded undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) will make academic research accessible to all students, thereby improving research opportunities.The new design will feature improved cleaning capabilities, addressing past odor and air quality concerns from improper drainage systems.Funding for this ambitious project has come through state dollars, grants, and philanthropic support, showcasing the strong partnership between FHSU and various stakeholders, including the Kansas Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (K-INBRE). We are also very grateful for the philanthropy of many of our alumni and medical professionals who have helped make this renovation a reality. FHSU maintains a commitment to academic excellence and innovation as this collaboration unfolds.The renovation is slated to begin this summer and extend into the fall semester of 2025. Students will utilize alternate classrooms and labs during this time, ensuring minimal disruption to their learning experiences.The upgraded Cadaver Lab will enhance the educational experience for current students and elevate FHSU’s offerings. With improved facilities and advanced technology, students will benefit from a top-tier learning environment that prepares them for success in health sciences. At Fort Hays State University, we remain focused on delivering hands-on, meaningful, and transformative educational opportunities.You, too, can join in this vital renovation project by investing in academic excellence at Fort Hays State University. Every gift makes a difference, no matter the size. If you would like to donate to the Cadaver Lab renovation, please get in touch with the FHSU Foundation Director of Development, Eric Depperschmidt, at 785-628-4527 or ejdepperschmidt@fhsu.edu.I look forward to sharing this exciting transformation with our community at a fall ribbon-cutting celebration.

Heart of a Tiger: Comprehensive cadaver lab renovation planned

By<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">&nbsp;SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/27/heres-an-update-from-hays-kansas-my-wife-was-rehired-after-doge-cuts-maybe/?emci=d2af36f4-980a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=2e4bf5df-e90a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

In a March 5 ruling, the Merit Systems Protection Board ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to temporarily reinstate nearly 6,000 probationary employees who had been terminated en masse on Feb. 13.

The ruling found reasonable grounds to believe that the terminations had violated “Federal laws and regulations governing reductions-in-force (RIFs) and probationary terminations.”

Six days later, the USDA issued its own announcement indicating that it would “place all terminated probationary employees in pay status and provide each with back pay, from the date of termination.” while they develop a phased plan for their return to work.

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/04/heres-the-latest-from-hays-kansas-elon-musk-fired-my-wife/">My wife was one of the 6,000 USDA probationary employees</a>&nbsp;unceremoniously fired Feb. 13 at the behest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency. We observed these developments with mixed emotions.

On the one hand, we felt vindicated. One of the most insulting elements of the terminations — the baseless claim that they were a result of poor performance — was central to the decision declaring the firings unlawful. But vindication is not always comforting.

For many recently terminated federal employees — including my wife — the leadup to their termination was more disconcerting than the firing itself. During this period, they received a flurry of emails that communicated veiled threats about the permanence of their positions and a disregard for the value of their work. The result was a hostile state of limbo.

Much of this seemed intentional. As Russel Vought, director of the United States Office of Management and Budget, said: “We want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected. … We want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains.”

So, when my wife received news of her termination, there was a limited sense of relief that this kind of hostility and uncertainty was over.

Some of our federal employee friends who were fired have left Kansas, moved in with their families or are interviewing for new positions. For them, the news that they were to be “temporarily reinstated” plunged them back into uncertain waters and made it difficult to plan for the future.

As my wife interviews for new jobs and considers alternative career paths, she knows that she may be “rehired” at any moment. But even then there is no guarantee that she wouldn’t simply be fired again in a few months.

The ruling and this renewed uncertainty highlighted the irony that the Department of Government Efficiency is creating an enormous amount of waste and inefficiency.

In keeping with the meme and trolling lore that informs Musk and DOGE’s operations, it was as if they couldn’t resist justifying the termination of thousands of probationary employees with an unwarranted slight about their performance. In doing so, they contravened standard reduction in force procedures.

As a result, 6,000 federal employees will receive salary and benefits for a month of inactivity. Moreover, they will continue to be paid to stay at home while the USDA worksout a plan for some of them to be reinstated while others are dismissed in line with standard procedures. How’s that for government efficiency?

Across the country, the chaos and unpredictability of the Musk/DOGE cuts have made it significantly harder for individual offices to function. For government employees and department leaders alike, planning projects and managing schedules has become nearly impossible when there’s no certainty about who will still have a job tomorrow, or whether funding for critical projects will remain in place.

Had Musk and DOGE pursued their cuts in a more methodical manner, much of this waste, disruption, and inefficiency could have been avoided.

But focusing on these inefficiencies alone is to miss the forest for the trees. The recklessness of Musk and DOGE isn’t just the byproduct of their adherence to meme and troll culture — it is a deliberate strategy rooted in their fundamental&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/take-it-from-this-kansan-officials-in-washington-d-c-tamper-with-federal-workforce-at-our-peril/">disdain for the civil service itself</a>. They are not trying to fix the system, they are trying to break it. By creating dysfunction, they validate their own argument that the government doesn’t work.

When Musk pranced around on stage at the CPAC conference with his “chainsaw for bureaucracy” he wasn’t signaling his intentions for methodical restructuring or communicating a new vision for the federal workforce. He was foreshadowing its demise. Indeed, had he been able to wield a diesel-powered clear cut logging machine, it would have been a much more honest portrayal of his intentions.

Concerned citizens should take note of the individual abuses and waste generated by DOGE while remaining aware of its broader agenda. The ultimate goal is for the public to relinquish responsibility for protecting public lands, conserving wildlife, and preserving history and archaeology based on the flimsy hope that the private sector might do a better job. As I wrote last time, this is a very dubious proposition.

Before concluding, I want to address two anticipated criticisms.

The first is the inevitable whataboutism that will point to previous administrations’ callousness toward workers, such as Joe Biden’s suggestion in 2019 that displaced coal miners could transition to tech jobs, stating: “Anybody who can go down 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well.”

This type of response assumes both my endorsement of such frivolous remarks and my political affiliations, which are&nbsp; false and irrelevant respectively. More importantly, it serves as a deflection — an excuse to avoid engaging with the problems that Musk and DOGE have created. Rather than fostering solidarity over shared grievances, the “welcome to the club” comments I expect to receive will be laden with schadenfreude, as if the real takeaway is that the “other side” is finally feeling the same pain.

The second likely criticism is a perceived lack of gratitude for the back pay my wife and thousands of other civil servants are receiving. But this overstates the value of money as a remedy for the confusion, disrespect, and upheaval. It also misjudges the character of many federal workers like my wife.

For those dedicated to preserving history, safeguarding public lands, and protecting national parks and wildlife, the work itself is more important than the paycheck. They don’t just want compensation. They want to return to their jobs and continue serving the public.

Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743087977583.jpeg" alt="Billionaire Elon Musk arrives for a meeting with Senate Republicans at the U.S. Capitol on March 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.&nbsp; Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images" />
 <figcaption>Billionaire Elon Musk arrives for a meeting with Senate Republicans at the U.S. Capitol on March 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.&nbsp; Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images</figcaption>
 </figure>OPINIONBy<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">&nbsp;SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/27/heres-an-update-from-hays-kansas-my-wife-was-rehired-after-doge-cuts-maybe/?emci=d2af36f4-980a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=2e4bf5df-e90a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>In a March 5 ruling, the Merit Systems Protection Board ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to temporarily reinstate nearly 6,000 probationary employees who had been terminated en masse on Feb. 13.The ruling found reasonable grounds to believe that the terminations had violated “Federal laws and regulations governing reductions-in-force (RIFs) and probationary terminations.”Six days later, the USDA issued its own announcement indicating that it would “place all terminated probationary employees in pay status and provide each with back pay, from the date of termination.” while they develop a phased plan for their return to work.<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/04/heres-the-latest-from-hays-kansas-elon-musk-fired-my-wife/">My wife was one of the 6,000 USDA probationary employees</a>&nbsp;unceremoniously fired Feb. 13 at the behest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency. We observed these developments with mixed emotions.On the one hand, we felt vindicated. One of the most insulting elements of the terminations — the baseless claim that they were a result of poor performance — was central to the decision declaring the firings unlawful. But vindication is not always comforting.For many recently terminated federal employees — including my wife — the leadup to their termination was more disconcerting than the firing itself. During this period, they received a flurry of emails that communicated veiled threats about the permanence of their positions and a disregard for the value of their work. The result was a hostile state of limbo.Much of this seemed intentional. As Russel Vought, director of the United States Office of Management and Budget, said: “We want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected. … We want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains.”So, when my wife received news of her termination, there was a limited sense of relief that this kind of hostility and uncertainty was over.Some of our federal employee friends who were fired have left Kansas, moved in with their families or are interviewing for new positions. For them, the news that they were to be “temporarily reinstated” plunged them back into uncertain waters and made it difficult to plan for the future.As my wife interviews for new jobs and considers alternative career paths, she knows that she may be “rehired” at any moment. But even then there is no guarantee that she wouldn’t simply be fired again in a few months.The ruling and this renewed uncertainty highlighted the irony that the Department of Government Efficiency is creating an enormous amount of waste and inefficiency.In keeping with the meme and trolling lore that informs Musk and DOGE’s operations, it was as if they couldn’t resist justifying the termination of thousands of probationary employees with an unwarranted slight about their performance. In doing so, they contravened standard reduction in force procedures.As a result, 6,000 federal employees will receive salary and benefits for a month of inactivity. Moreover, they will continue to be paid to stay at home while the USDA worksout a plan for some of them to be reinstated while others are dismissed in line with standard procedures. How’s that for government efficiency?Across the country, the chaos and unpredictability of the Musk/DOGE cuts have made it significantly harder for individual offices to function. For government employees and department leaders alike, planning projects and managing schedules has become nearly impossible when there’s no certainty about who will still have a job tomorrow, or whether funding for critical projects will remain in place.Had Musk and DOGE pursued their cuts in a more methodical manner, much of this waste, disruption, and inefficiency could have been avoided.But focusing on these inefficiencies alone is to miss the forest for the trees. The recklessness of Musk and DOGE isn’t just the byproduct of their adherence to meme and troll culture — it is a deliberate strategy rooted in their fundamental&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/take-it-from-this-kansan-officials-in-washington-d-c-tamper-with-federal-workforce-at-our-peril/">disdain for the civil service itself</a>. They are not trying to fix the system, they are trying to break it. By creating dysfunction, they validate their own argument that the government doesn’t work.When Musk pranced around on stage at the CPAC conference with his “chainsaw for bureaucracy” he wasn’t signaling his intentions for methodical restructuring or communicating a new vision for the federal workforce. He was foreshadowing its demise. Indeed, had he been able to wield a diesel-powered clear cut logging machine, it would have been a much more honest portrayal of his intentions.Concerned citizens should take note of the individual abuses and waste generated by DOGE while remaining aware of its broader agenda. The ultimate goal is for the public to relinquish responsibility for protecting public lands, conserving wildlife, and preserving history and archaeology based on the flimsy hope that the private sector might do a better job. As I wrote last time, this is a very dubious proposition.Before concluding, I want to address two anticipated criticisms.The first is the inevitable whataboutism that will point to previous administrations’ callousness toward workers, such as Joe Biden’s suggestion in 2019 that displaced coal miners could transition to tech jobs, stating: “Anybody who can go down 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well.”This type of response assumes both my endorsement of such frivolous remarks and my political affiliations, which are&nbsp; false and irrelevant respectively. More importantly, it serves as a deflection — an excuse to avoid engaging with the problems that Musk and DOGE have created. Rather than fostering solidarity over shared grievances, the “welcome to the club” comments I expect to receive will be laden with schadenfreude, as if the real takeaway is that the “other side” is finally feeling the same pain.The second likely criticism is a perceived lack of gratitude for the back pay my wife and thousands of other civil servants are receiving. But this overstates the value of money as a remedy for the confusion, disrespect, and upheaval. It also misjudges the character of many federal workers like my wife.For those dedicated to preserving history, safeguarding public lands, and protecting national parks and wildlife, the work itself is more important than the paycheck. They don’t just want compensation. They want to return to their jobs and continue serving the public.Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp; <h2></h2><h2></h2>

Update from Hays: My wife was rehired after DOGE cuts. Maybe?

BOWERS: 2025 Senate Scene Week 10

The House of Representatives debated and voted on 50 bills and resolutions last week, with only two weeks remaining till first adjournment. Bill topics ranged from higher education review commissions to fireworks sale regulations. Detailed below is a sample of six bills and resolutions from those deliberated in the House chamber, of which I voted yes on each.

· First is Senate Bill (SB) 156. This piece of legislation would make unlawfully direction of laser pointer lights at both law enforcement officers and aircraft a state crime. Laser pointing at law enforcement officers would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor and laser pointing at aircraft would be Severity Level 9 personal felony. Those using laser pointers for research purposes with aircraft manufacturers, work within federal agencies, and emergency rescue would be exempted.

· Second is SB 30. This bill requires the Kansas Secretary of Labor to conduct state and national criminal record checks on any state employee, including new hires, that is granted direct access to Internal Revenue Service tax information. The Secretary of Labor would also be granted statutory permissions from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on criminal investigation data.

· Third is SB 269. This legislation would alter current filing fee protocol for the Board of Tax Appeals. Instead of current law, where filers with pending and undecided appeals in previous years are charged for new appeals, the bill would eliminate filing fees for appeals.

· Fourth is House Bill 2223. This bill would alter current law by expanding the scope of practice, changing practice definitions, and credentialling for optometrists in Kansas.

· Fifth is House Resolution 6016, which I sponsored. This resolution condemns the planned Satanic Black Mass, scheduled for March 28, on State Capitol grounds. While it may be within their First Amendment rights to conduct such practices the event only serves to create division within our state by offending faithful Christians and insulting the heritage of our state.

· Sixth is SB 44. This legislation would alter the Kansas Promise Scholarship program by expanding the number of eligible post-secondary education intuitions in Kansas and increase funds available for the scholarship, from $10 million to $15 million.

Due to session timeline constraints an Omnibus Budget, a second budgetary bill intended to address errors, was not possible. In order to address those same concerns, the House Appropriations Committee modified Senate Bill 125, the Claims Against the State, with new line-item expenditures. Some members took to calling it the Minibus Budget.

Overall, the bill will increase state spending in fiscal year (FY) 2025 by $10,040,000 and by $7,518,829 in fiscal year 2026. 

The new items included covered an array of topics, some of which I have included here as a sample. 

First was $1.5 million State General Funds (SGF) to the Department of Health and Environment for control and prevention of the spread of Tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, given the recent outbreak in the state. 

Second was $40,000 SGF to the Kansas Historical Society to establish a Quindaro Ruins Taskforce in FY 2025, in order to organize efforts for the renovation of the Quindaro Ruins Archaeological Park, with reporting deadlines in FY 2026.

Third was bonding authority authorization for Kansas State University (KSU), Wichita State University, and the University of Kansas in FY 2026 and FY 2027. The bonding authority would pay for various projects across the university campuses, including the State of Kansas’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory—which resides on KSU’s campus. The bill passed out of the House Chamber on a vote of 120 to 3, and I voted yes.

HOUSE BILL 2007 SENATE ADJUSTMENTS

The budget process for this session is nearing conclusion and the Senate passed out its own substitute for House Bill (HB) 2007. The House non-concurred on the Senate’s version and a conference committee has been established, which will work to iron out the differences between the two chambers’ version of HB 2007. 

In the interest of your knowledge, and given that I have previously noted the House’s version, I have listed below several important changes made by the Senate. 

First was the deletion of $20 million State General Fund (SGF), from Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 through Fiscal Year 2027, for the Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Program, under the Attorney General. 

Second was the addition of $15.5 million SGF for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul program at the Topeka Regional Airport in FY 2026. 

Third was the transfer of $50 million SGF from the Build Kansas Fund to a new loan program, under the State Treasurer, for entities engaged in the business of maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft in FY 2026. 

Fourth was to increase the one and half percent state operating reductions for all agencies to three percent in FY 2026, a savings of $35,137,904 SGF.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> www.troywaymaster.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HOUSE DELIBERATIONSThe House of Representatives debated and voted on 50 bills and resolutions last week, with only two weeks remaining till first adjournment. Bill topics ranged from higher education review commissions to fireworks sale regulations. Detailed below is a sample of six bills and resolutions from those deliberated in the House chamber, of which I voted yes on each.· First is Senate Bill (SB) 156. This piece of legislation would make unlawfully direction of laser pointer lights at both law enforcement officers and aircraft a state crime. Laser pointing at law enforcement officers would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor and laser pointing at aircraft would be Severity Level 9 personal felony. Those using laser pointers for research purposes with aircraft manufacturers, work within federal agencies, and emergency rescue would be exempted.· Second is SB 30. This bill requires the Kansas Secretary of Labor to conduct state and national criminal record checks on any state employee, including new hires, that is granted direct access to Internal Revenue Service tax information. The Secretary of Labor would also be granted statutory permissions from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on criminal investigation data.· Third is SB 269. This legislation would alter current filing fee protocol for the Board of Tax Appeals. Instead of current law, where filers with pending and undecided appeals in previous years are charged for new appeals, the bill would eliminate filing fees for appeals.· Fourth is House Bill 2223. This bill would alter current law by expanding the scope of practice, changing practice definitions, and credentialling for optometrists in Kansas.· Fifth is House Resolution 6016, which I sponsored. This resolution condemns the planned Satanic Black Mass, scheduled for March 28, on State Capitol grounds. While it may be within their First Amendment rights to conduct such practices the event only serves to create division within our state by offending faithful Christians and insulting the heritage of our state.· Sixth is SB 44. This legislation would alter the Kansas Promise Scholarship program by expanding the number of eligible post-secondary education intuitions in Kansas and increase funds available for the scholarship, from $10 million to $15 million.SENATE BILL 125Due to session timeline constraints an Omnibus Budget, a second budgetary bill intended to address errors, was not possible. In order to address those same concerns, the House Appropriations Committee modified Senate Bill 125, the Claims Against the State, with new line-item expenditures. Some members took to calling it the Minibus Budget.Overall, the bill will increase state spending in fiscal year (FY) 2025 by $10,040,000 and by $7,518,829 in fiscal year 2026. The new items included covered an array of topics, some of which I have included here as a sample. First was $1.5 million State General Funds (SGF) to the Department of Health and Environment for control and prevention of the spread of Tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, given the recent outbreak in the state. Second was $40,000 SGF to the Kansas Historical Society to establish a Quindaro Ruins Taskforce in FY 2025, in order to organize efforts for the renovation of the Quindaro Ruins Archaeological Park, with reporting deadlines in FY 2026.Third was bonding authority authorization for Kansas State University (KSU), Wichita State University, and the University of Kansas in FY 2026 and FY 2027. The bonding authority would pay for various projects across the university campuses, including the State of Kansas’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory—which resides on KSU’s campus. The bill passed out of the House Chamber on a vote of 120 to 3, and I voted yes.HOUSE BILL 2007 SENATE ADJUSTMENTS The budget process for this session is nearing conclusion and the Senate passed out its own substitute for House Bill (HB) 2007. The House non-concurred on the Senate’s version and a conference committee has been established, which will work to iron out the differences between the two chambers’ version of HB 2007. In the interest of your knowledge, and given that I have previously noted the House’s version, I have listed below several important changes made by the Senate. First was the deletion of $20 million State General Fund (SGF), from Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 through Fiscal Year 2027, for the Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Program, under the Attorney General. Second was the addition of $15.5 million SGF for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul program at the Topeka Regional Airport in FY 2026. Third was the transfer of $50 million SGF from the Build Kansas Fund to a new loan program, under the State Treasurer, for entities engaged in the business of maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft in FY 2026. Fourth was to increase the one and half percent state operating reductions for all agencies to three percent in FY 2026, a savings of $35,137,904 SGF.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> www.troywaymaster.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, March 25, 2025

Some folks explore history with metal detectors. Listening to them discuss their unearthed treasures intrigues me. 

I can contribute historical facts by reading old newspapers, memorial collections, and searching archives. Often, decades pass before enough dots connect to construct a meaningful picture of a place or event. Nearly five5 decades after reading mention of Parks Fort, I’ve assembled enough info to share and see what others might add.

By 1866-67, surveyors had recorded Ellis and Trego County surveys. Lincoln had signed the 1862 Homestead Act, and the Kansas Pacific Railroad expanded West. Native people who relied on this regional hunting ground to supply food, shelter, and clothing discouraged such intrusions, leading to one cultural collision after another.

As a result, the post-Civil War Army provided protection for construction crews and settlers. This led to transitory forts that paralleled advancing track. Fort Ogallah, later called Parks Fort, was among those. 

According to sources found at the Trego County Historical Museum, Captain King, U.S. Army established an earth-work fortification six miles west of Ogallah.

In 1867, the site became Parks Fort following a conflict with native tribes. At that time, the fort was a 30' x 30' sod embankment with a deep well where approximately 300 graders under the direction of Thomas Parks and soldiers gathered for meals and water as well as protection. 

An additional source written by soldier E.S. Lane explained that Parks and fellow contractor Charles Saffel followed by a 10th Calvary Buffalo Soldier traveled north to hunt meat for camp. Another group of three also headed north driving a wagon to collect wood they’d cut on the Saline. Indians attacked, wounding Fred Dick in the thigh.

Hastily returning to camp, the three informed the military of the hunters’ danger. Parks’ dog returned to camp, wounded by an arrow, confirming this. A party of more than 50 soldiers and railroad workers set out to search for Parks and companions. They soon found signs of battle: “lances, pieces of cloth, cartridge hulls, trampled ground, and Saffel’s body, scalped and full of arrows.”

Up the ravine, trapped by a collapsed limestone slab, they found Park dead but not scalped. Upon removing the rock pinning Parks’ body, they found Beaton, the badly wounded 10th Cavalry soldier.

Lee and Raynesford’s Trails of the Smoky Hill referenced Parks Fort so nominally it wasn’t indexed. However, the 1872 attack on the Jordan hunting party did appear.

Later, Parks Fort was referenced in William D. Street’s Twenty-Five Years among the Indians and Buffalo. Street stated that 1874 hunters freighted hides at the site. According to Street, farmers, hunters, and trappers traveling throughout the region frequented it regularly.

Reading Jennie Martin’s A Brief History of the Early Days of Ellis, Kansas enriched the story. Martin, sister to Mary Jordan, who vanished in late summer of 1872 while on a buffalo hunt with her husband Dick Jordan, his 19-year-old brother George, and a 23-year-old Swede named Fred Nelson, told the story of the men’s deaths. The three were found either shot with rifles or arrows and scalped. Despite leaving a trail of fabric from her cloak, Mary vanished.

According to Martin, around 1872, prior to this event, Dick constructed a home for his new bride and himself at Parks Fort. At that time, a box car on the side of the track served as a telegraph office and the deep well remained. Dick and his bride shared their home and fixed up two dugouts once used by soldiers on the south side of the track. There he could dry buffalo meat.

Another pioneer family stayed at Parks Fort in 1879 until they could claim their land. Claire Yoxall of the Cortwright family noted that in 1879, only the deep well remained.

Visit Trego County Historical Museum to view artifacts H. and M. Newcomer found near what once served as Park’s Fort. Turn your mind loose with stories of native tribes, hunters, soldiers, railroad builders, and homesteaders. Imagine a meadowlark trill and a prairie wolf howl to complete your time travel.

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

<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 MADORINSome folks explore history with metal detectors. Listening to them discuss their unearthed treasures intrigues me. I can contribute historical facts by reading old newspapers, memorial collections, and searching archives. Often, decades pass before enough dots connect to construct a meaningful picture of a place or event. Nearly five5 decades after reading mention of Parks Fort, I’ve assembled enough info to share and see what others might add.By 1866-67, surveyors had recorded Ellis and Trego County surveys. Lincoln had signed the 1862 Homestead Act, and the Kansas Pacific Railroad expanded West. Native people who relied on this regional hunting ground to supply food, shelter, and clothing discouraged such intrusions, leading to one cultural collision after another.As a result, the post-Civil War Army provided protection for construction crews and settlers. This led to transitory forts that paralleled advancing track. Fort Ogallah, later called Parks Fort, was among those. According to sources found at the Trego County Historical Museum, Captain King, U.S. Army established an earth-work fortification six miles west of Ogallah.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742918543065.jpeg" alt="Parks Fort artifacts. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Parks Fort artifacts. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1867, the site became Parks Fort following a conflict with native tribes. At that time, the fort was a 30' x 30' sod embankment with a deep well where approximately 300 graders under the direction of Thomas Parks and soldiers gathered for meals and water as well as protection. An additional source written by soldier E.S. Lane explained that Parks and fellow contractor Charles Saffel followed by a 10th Calvary Buffalo Soldier traveled north to hunt meat for camp. Another group of three also headed north driving a wagon to collect wood they’d cut on the Saline. Indians attacked, wounding Fred Dick in the thigh.Hastily returning to camp, the three informed the military of the hunters’ danger. Parks’ dog returned to camp, wounded by an arrow, confirming this. A party of more than 50 soldiers and railroad workers set out to search for Parks and companions. They soon found signs of battle: “lances, pieces of cloth, cartridge hulls, trampled ground, and Saffel’s body, scalped and full of arrows.”Up the ravine, trapped by a collapsed limestone slab, they found Park dead but not scalped. Upon removing the rock pinning Parks’ body, they found Beaton, the badly wounded 10th Cavalry soldier.Lee and Raynesford’s Trails of the Smoky Hill referenced Parks Fort so nominally it wasn’t indexed. However, the 1872 attack on the Jordan hunting party did appear.Later, Parks Fort was referenced in William D. Street’s Twenty-Five Years among the Indians and Buffalo. Street stated that 1874 hunters freighted hides at the site. According to Street, farmers, hunters, and trappers traveling throughout the region frequented it regularly.Reading Jennie Martin’s A Brief History of the Early Days of Ellis, Kansas enriched the story. Martin, sister to Mary Jordan, who vanished in late summer of 1872 while on a buffalo hunt with her husband Dick Jordan, his 19-year-old brother George, and a 23-year-old Swede named Fred Nelson, told the story of the men’s deaths. The three were found either shot with rifles or arrows and scalped. Despite leaving a trail of fabric from her cloak, Mary vanished.According to Martin, around 1872, prior to this event, Dick constructed a home for his new bride and himself at Parks Fort. At that time, a box car on the side of the track served as a telegraph office and the deep well remained. Dick and his bride shared their home and fixed up two dugouts once used by soldiers on the south side of the track. There he could dry buffalo meat.Another pioneer family stayed at Parks Fort in 1879 until they could claim their land. Claire Yoxall of the Cortwright family noted that in 1879, only the deep well remained.Visit Trego County Historical Museum to view artifacts H. and M. Newcomer found near what once served as Park’s Fort. Turn your mind loose with stories of native tribes, hunters, soldiers, railroad builders, and homesteaders. Imagine a meadowlark trill and a prairie wolf howl to complete your time travel.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Fort Ogallah—Parks Fort: Early Ellis/Trego County History

Senate Passes Budget: The one constitutional responsibility the legislature must accomplish every year is to pass a balanced budget. Last week, the legislature got one step closer to the FY 2026 budget when the Senate adopted the Senate Sub for HB2007.

This marks the first year of a reformed budget process, in which the legislature takes primary control of crafting the budget, rather than merely reviewing the governor’s recommendations as in previous years. The budget includes more than $25B in expenditures, including $10.6B from the state general fund. 

Now the House and Senate positions go to conference committee to work out the differences between the two chambers’ recommendations, with a final budget to be voted on by both chambers this week.

Last week, the Senate re-adopted HCR5011 which, if adopted by a two-thirds majority of each chamber of the Kansas Legislature and approved by voters, would amend the Kansas Constitution to generally limit, for property tax purposes, the growth of taxable value of any real property or residential mobile home and personal property to 3% per year. The repassage of this amendment sends it to conference committee, so the Senate can work out differences between approaches to property tax relief with the House.

Home ownership is still a core value of the American Dream, but it’s harder for people to obtain. Part of the problem lies in the fact there are simply not enough single-family homes being built. Oftentimes, the culprit is slow approval processes at the local level. The Senate approved HB2088, which would create the Fast-Track Permits Act for single family residential developments with the stated purpose of enhancing economic growth in local communities and streamlining the building permit review process.

This bill would require a local government or local governmental authority to approve or deny a building permit for improvement of single-family residential property within its jurisdiction within 60 days of receiving a completed application. If the authority fails to provide written notice of an application’s approval or denial, the application must be deemed approved by the authority.

The key to ensuring that our voter rolls are free from illegal immigrants is careful monitoring. The Senate passed HB2020, which would direct the Director of Vehicles at the Department of Revenue, to provide the Secretary of State with a list of all permanent and temporary driver’s licenses issued to noncitizens on a quarterly basis. The list of non-citizens must contain the names, addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, alien registration numbers, dates of birth, temporary driver’s license numbers and the expiration dates of such licenses.

The bill would direct the Secretary to compare the list provided by the Director with the voter registration rolls and investigate and then direct the county election officer to remove the names of any alleged or suspected non-citizens that appear on the voter registration rolls within five business days. The bill would require the county election officer to notify such person that they may be reinstated on the voter registration rolls by providing proof of their citizenship.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785- 296-7399 or my cell number is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA Senate Passes Budget: The one constitutional responsibility the legislature must accomplish every year is to pass a balanced budget. Last week, the legislature got one step closer to the FY 2026 budget when the Senate adopted the Senate Sub for HB2007. This marks the first year of a reformed budget process, in which the legislature takes primary control of crafting the budget, rather than merely reviewing the governor’s recommendations as in previous years. The budget includes more than $25B in expenditures, including $10.6B from the state general fund. Now the House and Senate positions go to conference committee to work out the differences between the two chambers’ recommendations, with a final budget to be voted on by both chambers this week.Last week, the Senate re-adopted HCR5011 which, if adopted by a two-thirds majority of each chamber of the Kansas Legislature and approved by voters, would amend the Kansas Constitution to generally limit, for property tax purposes, the growth of taxable value of any real property or residential mobile home and personal property to 3% per year. The repassage of this amendment sends it to conference committee, so the Senate can work out differences between approaches to property tax relief with the House.Home ownership is still a core value of the American Dream, but it’s harder for people to obtain. Part of the problem lies in the fact there are simply not enough single-family homes being built. Oftentimes, the culprit is slow approval processes at the local level. The Senate approved HB2088, which would create the Fast-Track Permits Act for single family residential developments with the stated purpose of enhancing economic growth in local communities and streamlining the building permit review process. This bill would require a local government or local governmental authority to approve or deny a building permit for improvement of single-family residential property within its jurisdiction within 60 days of receiving a completed application. If the authority fails to provide written notice of an application’s approval or denial, the application must be deemed approved by the authority.The key to ensuring that our voter rolls are free from illegal immigrants is careful monitoring. The Senate passed HB2020, which would direct the Director of Vehicles at the Department of Revenue, to provide the Secretary of State with a list of all permanent and temporary driver’s licenses issued to noncitizens on a quarterly basis. The list of non-citizens must contain the names, addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, alien registration numbers, dates of birth, temporary driver’s license numbers and the expiration dates of such licenses. The bill would direct the Secretary to compare the list provided by the Director with the voter registration rolls and investigate and then direct the county election officer to remove the names of any alleged or suspected non-citizens that appear on the voter registration rolls within five business days. The bill would require the county election officer to notify such person that they may be reinstated on the voter registration rolls by providing proof of their citizenship.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785- 296-7399 or my cell number is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

BILLINGER: Senate Update, March 25, 2025

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an&nbsp;Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an&nbsp;Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictCool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:March Spot treat broadleaf weeds, if necessary. Treat on a day that is 50 degrees or warmer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness.April Apply crabgrass preventer when redbud trees are in full bloom, usually in April. The preventer needs to be watered in before it will start to work. One-quarter inch of water will be enough to water in any of the products commonly available.May Fertilize the lawn with a slow-release fertilizer if you water your lawn or if you normally receive enough rainfall that your turf doesn’t go drought-dormant during the summer. If there are broadleaf weeds, spot treat with a spray or use a fertilizer that includes a weed killer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness of the weed killer, but the fertilizer needs to be watered in. If you are using a product that has both fertilizer and weed killer, wait 24 hours after application before watering in.If grubs have been a problem in the past, apply a product containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole during May or anytime from May through June for imidacloprid. These products work to prevent grub damage. If rainfall does not occur within 24 hours, irrigate with ¼ inch of water.June through Mid-July Apply second round of crabgrass preventer by June 15 – unless you have used Dimension (dithiopyr) or Barricade (prodiamine) for the April application.Late-July through August If you see grub damage, apply a grub killer that contains Dylox. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole are effective against young grubs but may not be effective on late instar grubs. The grub killer containing Dylox must be watered in within 24 hours or effectiveness drops.September Fertilize around Labor Day. This is the most important fertilization of the year. Water in the fertilizer if rainfall does not occur.November Fertilize. This fertilizer is taken up by the roots but is not used until the following spring. Water in fertilizer. Spray for broadleaf weeds even if they are small. Broadleaf weeds are much easier to control in the fall than in the spring. Try to spray on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Use label rates for all products. Domenghini reminds homeowners that using best practices for turf management is the most effective way to manage their lawn. “This includes watering only when needed and only applying as much as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is more efficient than frequent, shallow watering. Excessive fertilizer does not equal a healthier lawn and follow recommendations for lawn height when mowing." She also recommends getting the soil tested to determine nutrient levels. The best start to a healthy lawn is healthy soil.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.