By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

I remember plainly a column years ago in the Hutchinson News by then regular contributor Amanda Miller. It left me scratching my head; until I read it through and realized how spot-on it was pertaining to my time in the outdoors.

The article was entitled” The Power of Low Expectations” and caught me off-guard, because Amanda, as seen through her writing style, always seemed to be quite bubbly and cheerful. The gist of the article however, was that we often set ourselves up for what we see as constant failure, or we miss any enjoyment in the task at hand because we set our expectations unreasonably high.

When I was a kid, an older coworker always used to say “If all else fails, lower your expectations.” Although witty, I disregarded most of what he told me, because this was a man that said he went home each night and tossed his hat in the backdoor; if the hat stayed in, he too went inside, but if it came flying back out, he went away and tried again later. Today, however I can see the value in at least monitoring our expectations as we go.

My wife Joyce is usually the one who maintains the better outlook when we go afield. Listening to the great horned owl call near our deer blind, or watching a group of does and fawns slip silently across the waterway in front of us, or hanging out the open blind window to watch a colorful songbird below as it flits from branch-to-branch all make her just as happy as harvesting a nice buck. Reading a book when the fish aren’t biting brings her just as much joy as if the fish were throwing themselves into the boat. Me, on the other hand, not-so-much.

In my defense, I’m a goal-oriented creature so failing to attain a goal drives me mad. Also, according to my wife, I often shift into “conquer mode” where all that matters is “conquering” what I / we are there to do. While these are not bad qualities for life, they are lousy road-blocks to enjoying the outdoors. When trapping, my expectations are full traps, (after all, isn’t that the point) so when my traps aren’t catching predators, I beat myself up and spend all my time trying to diagnose what I’m doing wrong, when I should stop and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation around me and the beautiful, luxurious fur of the ones I do catch. When we have hunted deer for a couple days and have not yet seen or harvested our annual venison, (that’s why we’re there isn’t it) I begin to spend my time analyzing every detail to find the flaws in our plan, when I should be hanging out

the open blind window to watch the songbird, or listening for the owl. When it has been a spell without a fish biting, I get antsy and am ready to leave (after all we are there to catch fish) when I should be marveling that God created something that breathes under water and lives in huge basins of water called lakes.

Maybe I don’t need to lower my expectations as much as alter them to allow for time to appreciate God’s Creation around me. In her column, Amanda went on to say, “Whether they be unreasonable or maybe even quite reasonable, not all expectations should be grasped too firmly; my contentment should be based on something much firmer than whatever I planned on happening.” Hmmm, good advice as we continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsI remember plainly a column years ago in the Hutchinson News by then regular contributor Amanda Miller. It left me scratching my head; until I read it through and realized how spot-on it was pertaining to my time in the outdoors.The article was entitled” The Power of Low Expectations” and caught me off-guard, because Amanda, as seen through her writing style, always seemed to be quite bubbly and cheerful. The gist of the article however, was that we often set ourselves up for what we see as constant failure, or we miss any enjoyment in the task at hand because we set our expectations unreasonably high.When I was a kid, an older coworker always used to say “If all else fails, lower your expectations.” Although witty, I disregarded most of what he told me, because this was a man that said he went home each night and tossed his hat in the backdoor; if the hat stayed in, he too went inside, but if it came flying back out, he went away and tried again later. Today, however I can see the value in at least monitoring our expectations as we go.My wife Joyce is usually the one who maintains the better outlook when we go afield. Listening to the great horned owl call near our deer blind, or watching a group of does and fawns slip silently across the waterway in front of us, or hanging out the open blind window to watch a colorful songbird below as it flits from branch-to-branch all make her just as happy as harvesting a nice buck. Reading a book when the fish aren’t biting brings her just as much joy as if the fish were throwing themselves into the boat. Me, on the other hand, not-so-much.In my defense, I’m a goal-oriented creature so failing to attain a goal drives me mad. Also, according to my wife, I often shift into “conquer mode” where all that matters is “conquering” what I / we are there to do. While these are not bad qualities for life, they are lousy road-blocks to enjoying the outdoors. When trapping, my expectations are full traps, (after all, isn’t that the point) so when my traps aren’t catching predators, I beat myself up and spend all my time trying to diagnose what I’m doing wrong, when I should stop and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation around me and the beautiful, luxurious fur of the ones I do catch. When we have hunted deer for a couple days and have not yet seen or harvested our annual venison, (that’s why we’re there isn’t it) I begin to spend my time analyzing every detail to find the flaws in our plan, when I should be hanging outthe open blind window to watch the songbird, or listening for the owl. When it has been a spell without a fish biting, I get antsy and am ready to leave (after all we are there to catch fish) when I should be marveling that God created something that breathes under water and lives in huge basins of water called lakes.Maybe I don’t need to lower my expectations as much as alter them to allow for time to appreciate God’s Creation around me. In her column, Amanda went on to say, “Whether they be unreasonable or maybe even quite reasonable, not all expectations should be grasped too firmly; my contentment should be based on something much firmer than whatever I planned on happening.” Hmmm, good advice as we continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: If all else fails, lower your expectations???

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

What if the alfalfa stand is short (less than 12 inches)?

In this case, the recommendation would be to avoid cutting it as the alfalfa tonnage would likely be low enough, not justifying costs. Additionally, avoiding cutting a short stand of alfalfa if there is insufficient growth to warrant harvesting from an economic standpoint actually helps the stand. This decision may also depend on stand thickness, but there should be about 12 to 15 inches of plant height to warrant harvesting. If there isn’t that much growth, wait for sufficient second growth once rainfall is received.

What are the best management options for drought-stressed alfalfa stands? Is it too late to cut a stand now, assuming there won’t be a hard freeze until November?

Always use caution when harvesting alfalfa in the fall, especially if the plant is already drought-stressed. Cutting the crop without leaving 6-8 weeks of re-growth before the first freeze can damage the stand and reduce persistence for subsequent years. Here, growers should base the anticipated timing of the freeze event on the average freeze date for their location and not count on a later date. Thus, if the crop is drought-stressed, the most appropriate management would be to wait until a good hard freeze before harvesting it. If yield is limiting enough not to cover harvest costs later in the fall, an option would be to graze after a hard freeze event (below 25F for 4+ hours). These measures would give the stand the best possible situation going into the fall. That way, you will have a good stand and (hopefully) precipitation to work with the next year.

Alfalfa stands decline in both tonnage and quality as they age and thin. Stands past their economically productive life also serve as a weed and disease source for surrounding fields. Operators should carefully weigh their projected returns from rotating out of alfalfa to maximize profit. Fields having less than four to five plants per square foot are considered poor and should be rotated. Another method is counting the number of stems per square foot when growth is around 5 inches tall. More than 55 stems per square foot indicate that yields are not limited, 40 to 55 stems indicate yields are somewhat limited, and fields with less than 40 stems per square foot should be considered for rotation.

“Rule of Hat” Method: If you do not have a measuring square, a standard baseball cap with brim measures approximately half a square foot, so stem counts can be doubled or threshold halved. For example, if 30 stems are counted under the hat, then multiply 30 by 2 to estimate 60 stems per square foot.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWhat if the alfalfa stand is short (less than 12 inches)?In this case, the recommendation would be to avoid cutting it as the alfalfa tonnage would likely be low enough, not justifying costs. Additionally, avoiding cutting a short stand of alfalfa if there is insufficient growth to warrant harvesting from an economic standpoint actually helps the stand. This decision may also depend on stand thickness, but there should be about 12 to 15 inches of plant height to warrant harvesting. If there isn’t that much growth, wait for sufficient second growth once rainfall is received.What are the best management options for drought-stressed alfalfa stands? Is it too late to cut a stand now, assuming there won’t be a hard freeze until November?Always use caution when harvesting alfalfa in the fall, especially if the plant is already drought-stressed. Cutting the crop without leaving 6-8 weeks of re-growth before the first freeze can damage the stand and reduce persistence for subsequent years. Here, growers should base the anticipated timing of the freeze event on the average freeze date for their location and not count on a later date. Thus, if the crop is drought-stressed, the most appropriate management would be to wait until a good hard freeze before harvesting it. If yield is limiting enough not to cover harvest costs later in the fall, an option would be to graze after a hard freeze event (below 25F for 4+ hours). These measures would give the stand the best possible situation going into the fall. That way, you will have a good stand and (hopefully) precipitation to work with the next year.Should I keep the thinning stand?Alfalfa stands decline in both tonnage and quality as they age and thin. Stands past their economically productive life also serve as a weed and disease source for surrounding fields. Operators should carefully weigh their projected returns from rotating out of alfalfa to maximize profit. Fields having less than four to five plants per square foot are considered poor and should be rotated. Another method is counting the number of stems per square foot when growth is around 5 inches tall. More than 55 stems per square foot indicate that yields are not limited, 40 to 55 stems indicate yields are somewhat limited, and fields with less than 40 stems per square foot should be considered for rotation.“Rule of Hat” Method: If you do not have a measuring square, a standard baseball cap with brim measures approximately half a square foot, so stem counts can be doubled or threshold halved. For example, if 30 stems are counted under the hat, then multiply 30 by 2 to estimate 60 stems per square foot.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: Alfalfa management options for short or drought-stressed stands

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

As I conclude this five-part series on the 2019-2024 Strategic Plan at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), I want to proudly highlight our fifth and final strategic goal. This goal focuses on Community and Global Engagement and encapsulates our commitment to cultivating impactful partnerships that resonate within our institution and extend to our local, national, and global communities.

Our desired outcomes for this goal were to annually develop or enhance innovative partnerships that bolster community, regional, or state economic prosperity. Additionally, we aimed to meet all requirements for classification as a Carnegie Community Engaged university—an important reflection of FHSU’s mission to develop global citizen leaders.

As we reflect on our strides in delivering this outcome, I am invigorated by the transformative partnerships we continue to forge and the achievements that define our collective efforts. Our journey has been marked by resilience and innovation, from launching the Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator (CITI) to establishing a Professional and Continuing Education Unit.

The Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator, a direct response to the Kansas Board of Regents' (KBOR) call for higher education institutions to actively contribute to Kansas's economic prosperity, is a prime example of our responsiveness. Leveraging FHSU’s National Security Agency Center for Academic Excellence accreditation, CITI provides students with hands-on experiences through micro-internships and supports local businesses in improving their cybersecurity strategies.

Despite the expected challenges of establishing infrastructure and marketing, we remain unwavering in our commitment to the CITI initiative. Interim Dean of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn aptly stated, “The CITI initiative exemplifies our continued commitment to our mission and service area as an institution. We create impactful opportunities for students to learn while engaging with our communities and businesses to address the growing challenge of cyber threats and cybercrime.”

We also achieved a groundbreaking partnership between the Robbins Banking Institute and the Kansas Bankers Association, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement and educational excellence. Our strategic affiliations with two technical colleges—Fort Hays Tech Northwest and Fort Hays Tech North Central—further enhance our commitment to workforce development and addressing local economic needs.

Another notable achievement was establishing the first state-wide community college articulation agreement, guaranteeing all community college-trained registered nurses' admission to the nursing program. This agreement streamlines pathways for aspiring nurses and strengthens Kansas's healthcare workforce, illustrating our partnerships' profound impact on regional health outcomes.

In collaboration with the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, we launched an accelerated 3+4 pathway that enables our students to start their first year of medical school during their senior year at FHSU. This innovative pathway expedites the educational journey for future

healthcare professionals and exemplifies our commitment to producing well-prepared, engaged leaders in the medical field.

Our efforts extend to supporting criminal justice initiatives, with FHSU becoming the host site for the National De-escalation Training Center – Central Region. This designation allows us to provide critical training that equips law enforcement professionals and community leaders with essential skills, ultimately fostering safer communities.

As we explored Goal Five, the journey was not without obstacles. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges just months after initiating our Five-Year Strategic Plan. In response, we formed the Civic Learning and Engagement Advisory Board to navigate these unprecedented times. This board organically evolved into the Campus Community Collaborative (3C), now an active body focused on strengthening relationships and increasing programmatic bandwidth across our campus.

Unexpected successes during this time included our expanded institutional memberships in organizations like Imagining America (IA) and the International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE). These memberships have opened new avenues for student scholarships, faculty professional development, and an enhanced culture of engagement on campus.

We are particularly grateful for Provost Arensdorf's unwavering dedication to making community engagement an institutional priority. This commitment resonates throughout our campus culture, encouraging faculty and staff to pursue initiatives that create a lasting impact on both students and the communities we serve.

A significant milestone was reached when FHSU submitted its application for the Leadership for Public Purpose elective classification for the Carnegie Foundation on December 15, 2023. On May 17, 2024, we were thrilled to learn that FHSU had been awarded this prestigious classification through 2030. This recognition places us among only 25 institutions nationwide and marks FHSU as the only university in Kansas to receive this distinction.

Receiving the Carnegie Foundation's Leadership for Public Purpose classification is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our consistent alignment with our mission. The foundation acknowledges universities that demonstrate their commitment to enhancing teaching, research, and service missions to develop leaders who engage with and serve the greater good. This classification validates the hard work and dedication the FHSU community has invested in cultivating partnerships and engaging with our diverse communities.

As we reflect on these accomplishments, I am filled with pride in our recognition and the authenticity of our mission. We are living out our commitment to developing global citizen leaders, evident in our work that transcends traditional boundaries. Our impact can be seen in Hays, across Kansas, and beyond.

As we progress through the final stage of our strategic plan, we remain committed to fostering innovative partnerships that drive regional educational and economic advancement. Our continuous growth in community engagement will only empower us to hone our strategies further and expand the programs that benefit our students and the communities we serve.

Our work within our communities will evolve, but our core focus will remain—supporting students, enhancing educational pathways, and comprehensively addressing community needs. As we look toward the future, we will persist in seizing opportunities to expand our reach and

deepen our engagement, ensuring that FHSU remains a leader in community and global partnerships.

This five-part series has illuminated the significant work that FHSU undertakes across all strategic goals, and Goal Five epitomizes our dedication to meaningful engagement. The profound partnerships and initiatives established reflect our values and commitment to education as a force for good. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this vital work. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful impact, inspiring and empowering future generations of global leaders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentAs I conclude this five-part series on the 2019-2024 Strategic Plan at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), I want to proudly highlight our fifth and final strategic goal. This goal focuses on Community and Global Engagement and encapsulates our commitment to cultivating impactful partnerships that resonate within our institution and extend to our local, national, and global communities.Our desired outcomes for this goal were to annually develop or enhance innovative partnerships that bolster community, regional, or state economic prosperity. Additionally, we aimed to meet all requirements for classification as a Carnegie Community Engaged university—an important reflection of FHSU’s mission to develop global citizen leaders.As we reflect on our strides in delivering this outcome, I am invigorated by the transformative partnerships we continue to forge and the achievements that define our collective efforts. Our journey has been marked by resilience and innovation, from launching the Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator (CITI) to establishing a Professional and Continuing Education Unit.The Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator, a direct response to the Kansas Board of Regents' (KBOR) call for higher education institutions to actively contribute to Kansas's economic prosperity, is a prime example of our responsiveness. Leveraging FHSU’s National Security Agency Center for Academic Excellence accreditation, CITI provides students with hands-on experiences through micro-internships and supports local businesses in improving their cybersecurity strategies.Despite the expected challenges of establishing infrastructure and marketing, we remain unwavering in our commitment to the CITI initiative. Interim Dean of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn aptly stated, “The CITI initiative exemplifies our continued commitment to our mission and service area as an institution. We create impactful opportunities for students to learn while engaging with our communities and businesses to address the growing challenge of cyber threats and cybercrime.”We also achieved a groundbreaking partnership between the Robbins Banking Institute and the Kansas Bankers Association, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement and educational excellence. Our strategic affiliations with two technical colleges—Fort Hays Tech Northwest and Fort Hays Tech North Central—further enhance our commitment to workforce development and addressing local economic needs.Another notable achievement was establishing the first state-wide community college articulation agreement, guaranteeing all community college-trained registered nurses' admission to the nursing program. This agreement streamlines pathways for aspiring nurses and strengthens Kansas's healthcare workforce, illustrating our partnerships' profound impact on regional health outcomes.In collaboration with the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, we launched an accelerated 3+4 pathway that enables our students to start their first year of medical school during their senior year at FHSU. This innovative pathway expedites the educational journey for futurehealthcare professionals and exemplifies our commitment to producing well-prepared, engaged leaders in the medical field.Our efforts extend to supporting criminal justice initiatives, with FHSU becoming the host site for the National De-escalation Training Center – Central Region. This designation allows us to provide critical training that equips law enforcement professionals and community leaders with essential skills, ultimately fostering safer communities.As we explored Goal Five, the journey was not without obstacles. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges just months after initiating our Five-Year Strategic Plan. In response, we formed the Civic Learning and Engagement Advisory Board to navigate these unprecedented times. This board organically evolved into the Campus Community Collaborative (3C), now an active body focused on strengthening relationships and increasing programmatic bandwidth across our campus.Unexpected successes during this time included our expanded institutional memberships in organizations like Imagining America (IA) and the International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE). These memberships have opened new avenues for student scholarships, faculty professional development, and an enhanced culture of engagement on campus.We are particularly grateful for Provost Arensdorf's unwavering dedication to making community engagement an institutional priority. This commitment resonates throughout our campus culture, encouraging faculty and staff to pursue initiatives that create a lasting impact on both students and the communities we serve.A significant milestone was reached when FHSU submitted its application for the Leadership for Public Purpose elective classification for the Carnegie Foundation on December 15, 2023. On May 17, 2024, we were thrilled to learn that FHSU had been awarded this prestigious classification through 2030. This recognition places us among only 25 institutions nationwide and marks FHSU as the only university in Kansas to receive this distinction.Receiving the Carnegie Foundation's Leadership for Public Purpose classification is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our consistent alignment with our mission. The foundation acknowledges universities that demonstrate their commitment to enhancing teaching, research, and service missions to develop leaders who engage with and serve the greater good. This classification validates the hard work and dedication the FHSU community has invested in cultivating partnerships and engaging with our diverse communities.As we reflect on these accomplishments, I am filled with pride in our recognition and the authenticity of our mission. We are living out our commitment to developing global citizen leaders, evident in our work that transcends traditional boundaries. Our impact can be seen in Hays, across Kansas, and beyond.As we progress through the final stage of our strategic plan, we remain committed to fostering innovative partnerships that drive regional educational and economic advancement. Our continuous growth in community engagement will only empower us to hone our strategies further and expand the programs that benefit our students and the communities we serve.Our work within our communities will evolve, but our core focus will remain—supporting students, enhancing educational pathways, and comprehensively addressing community needs. As we look toward the future, we will persist in seizing opportunities to expand our reach anddeepen our engagement, ensuring that FHSU remains a leader in community and global partnerships.This five-part series has illuminated the significant work that FHSU undertakes across all strategic goals, and Goal Five epitomizes our dedication to meaningful engagement. The profound partnerships and initiatives established reflect our values and commitment to education as a force for good. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this vital work. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful impact, inspiring and empowering future generations of global leaders.

Heart of a Tiger: Celebrating success, part 5

By TAMARA ROBERTSON Cottonwood Extension District

The Ellis County 4-H Shooting Sports Club is sending nine youth archers, ages 9-18, to the State 4-H Archery competition in Wakarusa, KS on September 21st. The 2024 4-H archery program includes 30 youth participants from Ellis County and five youth from Pawnee County 4-H. The 4-H Shooting Sports program provides an opportunity for caring adults to assist youth in positive youth development.

Want to learn proper and safe ways to shoot an air rifle, shotgun or bow and arrow? Check out the shooting sports project! The project teaches gun safety, hunting practices plus an opportunity to test your skills. If you have an interest in guns and/or hunting this project is a great way to learn. Kansas 4-H Shooting Sports adheres to the National Shooting Sports Policies.

4-H offers a diverse range of projects that engage youth in hands-on learning across various fields. In Animal Science, members can work with species like beef, goats, horses and more, diving into veterinary science as well. The Communication &amp; Expressive Arts projects encourage creativity through performing arts, photography, and visual arts. Consumer &amp; Family Science covers essential life skills such as sewing, nutrition, and interior design. In Natural Resources, youth explore environmental science, geology, and wildlife. Leadership &amp; Personal Development projects foster civic engagement and self-determination. The Plant Sciences focus on entomology, agronomy, and horticulture, while Engineering &amp; Technology includes exciting areas like robotics, renewable energy, and aerospace. With such a broad spectrum of projects, 4-H empowers youth to develop skills, leadership, and a passion for learning.

The new 4-H year begins on October 1st, making this an ideal time to consider becoming a member. If interested in the 4-H program, please contact the Ellis County Extension Office at 785-628-9430.

Tamara Robertson is the 4-H Youth Development Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or tarobertson@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726694415799.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TAMARA ROBERTSON Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Ellis County 4-H Shooting Sports Club is sending nine youth archers, ages 9-18, to the State 4-H Archery competition in Wakarusa, KS on September 21st. The 2024 4-H archery program includes 30 youth participants from Ellis County and five youth from Pawnee County 4-H. The 4-H Shooting Sports program provides an opportunity for caring adults to assist youth in positive youth development.Want to learn proper and safe ways to shoot an air rifle, shotgun or bow and arrow? Check out the shooting sports project! The project teaches gun safety, hunting practices plus an opportunity to test your skills. If you have an interest in guns and/or hunting this project is a great way to learn. Kansas 4-H Shooting Sports adheres to the National Shooting Sports Policies.4-H offers a diverse range of projects that engage youth in hands-on learning across various fields. In Animal Science, members can work with species like beef, goats, horses and more, diving into veterinary science as well. The Communication &amp; Expressive Arts projects encourage creativity through performing arts, photography, and visual arts. Consumer &amp; Family Science covers essential life skills such as sewing, nutrition, and interior design. In Natural Resources, youth explore environmental science, geology, and wildlife. Leadership &amp; Personal Development projects foster civic engagement and self-determination. The Plant Sciences focus on entomology, agronomy, and horticulture, while Engineering &amp; Technology includes exciting areas like robotics, renewable energy, and aerospace. With such a broad spectrum of projects, 4-H empowers youth to develop skills, leadership, and a passion for learning.The new 4-H year begins on October 1st, making this an ideal time to consider becoming a member. If interested in the 4-H program, please contact the Ellis County Extension Office at 785-628-9430.Tamara Robertson is the 4-H Youth Development Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or tarobertson@ksu.edu.

ROBERTSON: Make 4-H Your Target

Normally I avoid sequels. I don’t want to know what happened after Rhett left Scarlet standing in the door with his famous line echoing in her mind. However, I must write part two to the hedge apple saga. If I don’t, readers could enter the next bug cycle with unfounded hope.

Before I address this fruit’s insect deterrent capabilities, I’ll fill readers in on why I found a million shreds of hedge apple under the big cedar tree. I spent enough time observing out the window that I caught the culprit at work.

My husband told me squirrels had done the deed, but I couldn’t imagine how such a wee creature could wreak such havoc. (Silly me. I lost a sweater and a pair of tennis shoes to a mouse living in a school closet.) He was right. Squirrels love hedge apples.

We put a few more ugly globes out on the porch to tempt the guilty party, and then we watched. It took a while to catch the critter in the act, but I saw one squirrel lift and carry a large hedge apple in its mouth to the cedar. Apparently, another squirrel observed this feat and, inspired, grabbed its own green brain off the porch to lug down the hill.

That explained the movement of hedge apples from one locale to another. Watching longer, I saw the apples shredded. In moments, the squirrels tore their respective orbs into thousands of tiny pieces. As they shredded, they flung, leaving me to think squirrels find only a small portion of this meal edible. Once they found that little chunk, they tossed the waste like confetti.

So much for the mystery of the moved and shredded hedge apples. Now for the truth about hedge apples as insect deterrent. After reading the Internet site selling hedge apples as natural insect deterrent, I placed a number of them around the house in places we find hordes of box elder beetles aka Ellis bugs. (We named them Ellis bugs when a tiny neighbor called the black and orange insects Ellis bugs. Her big brother wore black and orange as an Ellis Railer, so black and orange bugs should logically be Ellis bugs.)

I tucked a hedge apple in my closet and in the coat closet for good measure. My first hint about their lack of suitability as a solution to box elder bugs was the pungent odor that wafted out every time I opened the closet door. However, thinking about inventors like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, I could not give up too soon.

While I gave those hedge apples every opportunity to send the box elder bugs outside for a breath of fresh air, another infestation occurred in my bedroom closet. Hedge apples are a fruit, right? Fruit flies like fruit, right? Fruit flies really like ripe fruit, right? Right.

We traveled overnight, and when I returned my clothes to my closet, horrors awaited! I’d collected a hedge apple containing fruit fly larvae. Now, I had a closet full of them. Thirty years earlier, this would have been grand when I required them for a biology genetics experiment. This was thirty years too late.

Fortunately, I didn’t pay $1.50 for each hedge apple. Even more fortunate was the fact that only one hedge apple spawned a swarm of fruit flies. Otherwise, I’d have swatted pests for days

Beware of Internet ads. When experimenting, select a small test zone, and prepare for the unexpected. Certainly, Edison and Bell made their own mistakes. In fact, Edison said something along this line, I have not made a thousand mistakes inventing the light bulb. I have merely found a thousand ways not to make a light bulb. Well, I found another way not to deter insects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726072713491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINNormally I avoid sequels. I don’t want to know what happened after Rhett left Scarlet standing in the door with his famous line echoing in her mind. However, I must write part two to the hedge apple saga. If I don’t, readers could enter the next bug cycle with unfounded hope.Before I address this fruit’s insect deterrent capabilities, I’ll fill readers in on why I found a million shreds of hedge apple under the big cedar tree. I spent enough time observing out the window that I caught the culprit at work.My husband told me squirrels had done the deed, but I couldn’t imagine how such a wee creature could wreak such havoc. (Silly me. I lost a sweater and a pair of tennis shoes to a mouse living in a school closet.) He was right. Squirrels love hedge apples.We put a few more ugly globes out on the porch to tempt the guilty party, and then we watched. It took a while to catch the critter in the act, but I saw one squirrel lift and carry a large hedge apple in its mouth to the cedar. Apparently, another squirrel observed this feat and, inspired, grabbed its own green brain off the porch to lug down the hill.That explained the movement of hedge apples from one locale to another. Watching longer, I saw the apples shredded. In moments, the squirrels tore their respective orbs into thousands of tiny pieces. As they shredded, they flung, leaving me to think squirrels find only a small portion of this meal edible. Once they found that little chunk, they tossed the waste like confetti.So much for the mystery of the moved and shredded hedge apples. Now for the truth about hedge apples as insect deterrent. After reading the Internet site selling hedge apples as natural insect deterrent, I placed a number of them around the house in places we find hordes of box elder beetles aka Ellis bugs. (We named them Ellis bugs when a tiny neighbor called the black and orange insects Ellis bugs. Her big brother wore black and orange as an Ellis Railer, so black and orange bugs should logically be Ellis bugs.)I tucked a hedge apple in my closet and in the coat closet for good measure. My first hint about their lack of suitability as a solution to box elder bugs was the pungent odor that wafted out every time I opened the closet door. However, thinking about inventors like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, I could not give up too soon.While I gave those hedge apples every opportunity to send the box elder bugs outside for a breath of fresh air, another infestation occurred in my bedroom closet. Hedge apples are a fruit, right? Fruit flies like fruit, right? Fruit flies really like ripe fruit, right? Right.We traveled overnight, and when I returned my clothes to my closet, horrors awaited! I’d collected a hedge apple containing fruit fly larvae. Now, I had a closet full of them. Thirty years earlier, this would have been grand when I required them for a biology genetics experiment. This was thirty years too late.Fortunately, I didn’t pay $1.50 for each hedge apple. Even more fortunate was the fact that only one hedge apple spawned a swarm of fruit flies. Otherwise, I’d have swatted pests for daysBeware of Internet ads. When experimenting, select a small test zone, and prepare for the unexpected. Certainly, Edison and Bell made their own mistakes. In fact, Edison said something along this line, I have not made a thousand mistakes inventing the light bulb. I have merely found a thousand ways not to make a light bulb. Well, I found another way not to deter insects.

MADORIN: Hedge apples - Part 2

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

As the population of those 65 and older grows, the proportion of Americans with dementia will rise. Currently, it is estimated that 6.9 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s dementia. Close family and friends tend to provide caregiving services for loved ones with the disease, and it is no easy task. In fact, those caring for a person with dementia provide extensive assistance including personal care, increased supervision, and response to behavioral symptoms.

This is why respite care, or rest for the caregiver, is vital. If you or someone you know could benefit from respite care, look to community resources for assistance.

A Different Mindset Association, located in Hays, Kansas, aims to support caregivers, provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. The group hosts caregiver support group meetings in person and via Zoom. They also provide a monthly mobile respite care service and a social engagement day program for those with dementia.

Mobile respite, “On the Road Again,” occurs the first Tuesday of every month at the Hays Senior Center. Caregivers have the opportunity to drop loved ones off to enjoy lunch, field trips, community service opportunities, and indoor and outdoor experiences.

“Our Club,” is a day program from 11 am- 3:30 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Participants can enjoy lunch, art, drama, music, intergenerational activities, community service, and animal friends at the Hays Senior Center.

Through these programs, A Different Mindset Association hopes to relieve caregivers and enrich the lives of those with dementia through social connections, recreation, and a newfound purpose.

Everyone needs a break to rest and recharge. Respite care can provide temporary relief from caregiving, while the person with dementia continues to receive care in a safe environment. Using respite services can strengthen your ability to provide the best care possible.

Visit https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/adm/support/ or call 785- 269-1928 to learn more about the services A Different Mindset Association provides.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictAs the population of those 65 and older grows, the proportion of Americans with dementia will rise. Currently, it is estimated that 6.9 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s dementia. Close family and friends tend to provide caregiving services for loved ones with the disease, and it is no easy task. In fact, those caring for a person with dementia provide extensive assistance including personal care, increased supervision, and response to behavioral symptoms.This is why respite care, or rest for the caregiver, is vital. If you or someone you know could benefit from respite care, look to community resources for assistance.A Different Mindset Association, located in Hays, Kansas, aims to support caregivers, provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. The group hosts caregiver support group meetings in person and via Zoom. They also provide a monthly mobile respite care service and a social engagement day program for those with dementia.Mobile respite, “On the Road Again,” occurs the first Tuesday of every month at the Hays Senior Center. Caregivers have the opportunity to drop loved ones off to enjoy lunch, field trips, community service opportunities, and indoor and outdoor experiences.“Our Club,” is a day program from 11 am- 3:30 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Participants can enjoy lunch, art, drama, music, intergenerational activities, community service, and animal friends at the Hays Senior Center.Through these programs, A Different Mindset Association hopes to relieve caregivers and enrich the lives of those with dementia through social connections, recreation, and a newfound purpose.Everyone needs a break to rest and recharge. Respite care can provide temporary relief from caregiving, while the person with dementia continues to receive care in a safe environment. Using respite services can strengthen your ability to provide the best care possible.Visit https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/adm/support/ or call 785- 269-1928 to learn more about the services A Different Mindset Association provides.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Respite Services Near You

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

As an Ag agent for KSRE over these past ten years, I have made countless home visits for individuals with tree issues. There are many reasons a tree can have problems. The drought we lived through these past few years has taken its toll on our trees, to the other extreme the heavy rains and flooding that occurred in Barton County around 2019 also caused significant damage to our trees. These environmental conditions are unpreventable but, giving your tree a little extra TLC for some time after can help your tree stay healthy for a long time after such events.

If your tree falters and dies what should you do? What type of tree should be the replacement? Here are some observations I have seen over time to help you find the right tree for the area you want to plant.

First of all, take a look at the site you wish to plant and observe the surroundings. How close to buildings are you? Are there powerlines above that area? What other obstacles will the tree encounter as it grows? One example is powerlines. If you have some in the area you wish to plant, you will want to chose a tree that won’t grow as tall as to interfere with them.Soil type is also important. Most trees prefer moist, well drained soils. Knowing your soil type and how your landscape is in various conditions will help you find a tree that will thrive in your yard.

Another question you need to address: what types of diseases and what insects are prone to the type of tree you are looking to plant? The Red Maple for example is a popular choice for a landscape tree with its vibrant fall color but, the tree has several issues in our area. The soil pH in our region tends to be high causing iron to be tied up chemically. As maples need more iron than other trees, they become chlorotic. This hinders chlorophyll production and causes the leaves to turn yellow. This in turn causes the tree to be unable to make its own nutrients and eventually it causes the tree to decline and die. If you want a Maple tree be prepared to treat the tree with an iron supplement as it ages and shows symptoms. Maples also tend to have poor branching, so early pruning and extra care as its ages is very important to have a tree that will be around for years to come.

The Kansas Forest Service has a publication for each region of Kansas that rates trees for environmental and landscape attributes to help you select the right tree for the place you want to plant. To access the one for Northwest Kansas, including Barton and Ellis Counties got to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/NW%20Preferred%20Trees122016.pdf">https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/NW%20Preferred%20Trees122016.pdf</a>&nbsp;or call our offices and we can get a copy to you.

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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictAs an Ag agent for KSRE over these past ten years, I have made countless home visits for individuals with tree issues. There are many reasons a tree can have problems. The drought we lived through these past few years has taken its toll on our trees, to the other extreme the heavy rains and flooding that occurred in Barton County around 2019 also caused significant damage to our trees. These environmental conditions are unpreventable but, giving your tree a little extra TLC for some time after can help your tree stay healthy for a long time after such events.If your tree falters and dies what should you do? What type of tree should be the replacement? Here are some observations I have seen over time to help you find the right tree for the area you want to plant.First of all, take a look at the site you wish to plant and observe the surroundings. How close to buildings are you? Are there powerlines above that area? What other obstacles will the tree encounter as it grows? One example is powerlines. If you have some in the area you wish to plant, you will want to chose a tree that won’t grow as tall as to interfere with them.Soil type is also important. Most trees prefer moist, well drained soils. Knowing your soil type and how your landscape is in various conditions will help you find a tree that will thrive in your yard.Another question you need to address: what types of diseases and what insects are prone to the type of tree you are looking to plant? The Red Maple for example is a popular choice for a landscape tree with its vibrant fall color but, the tree has several issues in our area. The soil pH in our region tends to be high causing iron to be tied up chemically. As maples need more iron than other trees, they become chlorotic. This hinders chlorophyll production and causes the leaves to turn yellow. This in turn causes the tree to be unable to make its own nutrients and eventually it causes the tree to decline and die. If you want a Maple tree be prepared to treat the tree with an iron supplement as it ages and shows symptoms. Maples also tend to have poor branching, so early pruning and extra care as its ages is very important to have a tree that will be around for years to come.The Kansas Forest Service has a publication for each region of Kansas that rates trees for environmental and landscape attributes to help you select the right tree for the place you want to plant. To access the one for Northwest Kansas, including Barton and Ellis Counties got to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/NW%20Preferred%20Trees122016.pdf">https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/NW%20Preferred%20Trees122016.pdf</a>&nbsp;or call our offices and we can get a copy to you.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: Picking a tree

Two of the best-known phrases in modern history are “Gentlemen Start Your Engines,” and “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble,” both of which precede the start of popular sporting events. Maybe if we hunters had a catchy phrase to remind us, we would do a better job of preparing our gear for the upcoming plethora of hunting seasons. On a recent TV hunting show, the host was interviewing several professional hunting guides, asking each of them the question “What is the biggest mistake you see you clients make?” Without hesitation, the first guide answered “The biggest mistake I see clients make year after year is coming to camp unfamiliar with and unsure of their equipment.” He said “For example, they think that just because the sights on their bows or the scopes on their rifles were “spot-on” when they put them away last year or when they loaded them for the trip, they must still be spot-on when they arrive. I offer them the chance to sight them in before we go to the woods, but they decline. So, I take them to the woods and they blow a shot at a once-in-a-lifetime buck because their sights were indeed off.”

Let’s discuss some things we should all do in preparation of hunting season. First check your licenses and tags. Decide what all you plan to hunt this year and be sure you possess all the different stamps and tags to legally do so. If you’re not sure what you need, by all means contact your local conservation officer or the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks. You will have to purchase specific tags for deer and turkeys, which will be good only for this season, but general (fishing) and hunting licenses and fur-harvesting permits are now good for one full year from the date you purchase them.

Along with licenses, make sure you also have permission to hunt all your “honey holes.” Many land owners grant permission on a first- come, first- serve basis. We are most blessed to be able to hunt and trap on land owned by my sister and her family, but privately owned land available for hunting, fishing and trapping gets harder to find each year, so don’t put-off a trip to the landowners home to ask their permission in person.

Now check your clothing. As we all know, shirts and pants have a bad habit of shrinking over the years. Replace them, have your wife let them out a little to fit, or better yet, shrink yourself a little. Clothing does honestly wear out sometimes, and now is a good time to find fall and winter hunting apparel on sale. If you have your eye on some of the new camo patterns or some of the new scent-blocker clothing for instance, start shopping now. This includes footwear as well. There’s nothing worse than sore &amp; blistered or cold feet. Venues like trapping and upland bird hunting are strenuous exercise and there’s no time like the present to begin some sort of fitness program to get you in better physical shape. Start walking or bicycling in the evenings or any other cardio workout to increase your stamina.

Do a thorough inspection on your weapons of choice. Test sights on bows and scopes on rifles &amp; crossbows, and readjust if necessary. Make certain all mechanisms are lightly oiled and lubed. Put a few shells through your deer rifle just to familiarize yourself again with its feel and recoil. Shoot your bow to again become confident of your holding point and be certain the release is functional. Check for frayed or nicked strings and bad fletching on arrows. In short, be certain every part of every weapon is in good repair and functioning correctly. Also stock up on ammunition. Supplies have fluctuated greatly the last couple years, so get what you need early. For those of us who don’t keep deer feeders full or cameras

out year-round, other equipment and supply needs may include batteries for cameras and corn for feeders.

Hopefully you trappers cleaned and neatly packed away all your equipment after last season, but now is the time to pull everything out and see what you need in the way of additional equipment, scents and lures. The annual Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. rendezvous is October 4 &amp; 5 at McPherson, KS, and is a great place to get everything you need, as there will be numerous supply vendors present, plus lots of “tail gaters” with good used equipment to sell. The event also boasts a full weekend of demonstrations by experienced Kansas trappers, and is an opportune place and time for new trappers to gain a wealth of knowledge.

Well, that’s it in a nutshell; probably nothing here you didn’t already know, but maybe reading this will spur you in to action. The beastly hot, dry summer in my part of Kansas will no doubt have some impact on this year’s hunting and trapping opportunities; I really don’t know what to expect. What I do know is that if I do my part by having all my equipment ready, there won’t be any unwelcome surprises in that category!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsTwo of the best-known phrases in modern history are “Gentlemen Start Your Engines,” and “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble,” both of which precede the start of popular sporting events. Maybe if we hunters had a catchy phrase to remind us, we would do a better job of preparing our gear for the upcoming plethora of hunting seasons. On a recent TV hunting show, the host was interviewing several professional hunting guides, asking each of them the question “What is the biggest mistake you see you clients make?” Without hesitation, the first guide answered “The biggest mistake I see clients make year after year is coming to camp unfamiliar with and unsure of their equipment.” He said “For example, they think that just because the sights on their bows or the scopes on their rifles were “spot-on” when they put them away last year or when they loaded them for the trip, they must still be spot-on when they arrive. I offer them the chance to sight them in before we go to the woods, but they decline. So, I take them to the woods and they blow a shot at a once-in-a-lifetime buck because their sights were indeed off.”Let’s discuss some things we should all do in preparation of hunting season. First check your licenses and tags. Decide what all you plan to hunt this year and be sure you possess all the different stamps and tags to legally do so. If you’re not sure what you need, by all means contact your local conservation officer or the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks. You will have to purchase specific tags for deer and turkeys, which will be good only for this season, but general (fishing) and hunting licenses and fur-harvesting permits are now good for one full year from the date you purchase them.Along with licenses, make sure you also have permission to hunt all your “honey holes.” Many land owners grant permission on a first- come, first- serve basis. We are most blessed to be able to hunt and trap on land owned by my sister and her family, but privately owned land available for hunting, fishing and trapping gets harder to find each year, so don’t put-off a trip to the landowners home to ask their permission in person.Now check your clothing. As we all know, shirts and pants have a bad habit of shrinking over the years. Replace them, have your wife let them out a little to fit, or better yet, shrink yourself a little. Clothing does honestly wear out sometimes, and now is a good time to find fall and winter hunting apparel on sale. If you have your eye on some of the new camo patterns or some of the new scent-blocker clothing for instance, start shopping now. This includes footwear as well. There’s nothing worse than sore &amp; blistered or cold feet. Venues like trapping and upland bird hunting are strenuous exercise and there’s no time like the present to begin some sort of fitness program to get you in better physical shape. Start walking or bicycling in the evenings or any other cardio workout to increase your stamina.Do a thorough inspection on your weapons of choice. Test sights on bows and scopes on rifles &amp; crossbows, and readjust if necessary. Make certain all mechanisms are lightly oiled and lubed. Put a few shells through your deer rifle just to familiarize yourself again with its feel and recoil. Shoot your bow to again become confident of your holding point and be certain the release is functional. Check for frayed or nicked strings and bad fletching on arrows. In short, be certain every part of every weapon is in good repair and functioning correctly. Also stock up on ammunition. Supplies have fluctuated greatly the last couple years, so get what you need early. For those of us who don’t keep deer feeders full or camerasout year-round, other equipment and supply needs may include batteries for cameras and corn for feeders.Hopefully you trappers cleaned and neatly packed away all your equipment after last season, but now is the time to pull everything out and see what you need in the way of additional equipment, scents and lures. The annual Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. rendezvous is October 4 &amp; 5 at McPherson, KS, and is a great place to get everything you need, as there will be numerous supply vendors present, plus lots of “tail gaters” with good used equipment to sell. The event also boasts a full weekend of demonstrations by experienced Kansas trappers, and is an opportune place and time for new trappers to gain a wealth of knowledge.Well, that’s it in a nutshell; probably nothing here you didn’t already know, but maybe reading this will spur you in to action. The beastly hot, dry summer in my part of Kansas will no doubt have some impact on this year’s hunting and trapping opportunities; I really don’t know what to expect. What I do know is that if I do my part by having all my equipment ready, there won’t be any unwelcome surprises in that category!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Tis’ the Season

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

With a coveted Taylor Swift endorsement
rolling out earlier this month, everyone seems to be talking about the
engagement of young voters this election cycle.

Young people — typically, this is measured by
those under the age of 35 — are often touted as apathetic and not caring about
politics.

But political science research suggests this
assertion couldn’t be further from the truth. Young people are very interested
in political issues, they’re just less willing to engage in mainstream forms of
political participation like voting and joining political parties.

They’ve replaced these traditional forms of
democratic participation with alternative approaches like social movements,
rallies, protests, and consumer boycotts.

The 2022 election cycle in Kansas shows us,
perhaps even more than previous generations, that young people are issue
voters. They’re less mobilized by candidates and parties but they are mobilized
strongly by salient political issues. 

In 2022, the issue was the fall of Roe v. Wade and Kansas’ constitutional
amendment on abortion access.

The week following the Supreme Court decision
to overturn Roe v. Wade, the average
age of new voter registrations was 25. During that same week in 2020, the
average age of new registrants was 36.

This increase in voter registration among
young people led to their higher than normal turnout in the primary election
that year.

37.4% of registered voters under the age of 40
cast a ballot in the 2022 primary election.

However, if we compare turnout to the 2024
presidential primary in March of this year, young voter turnout drops
significantly. Only 1.5% of all registrants under the age of 40 cast a ballot. 

In total, only 7.1% of registered voters
turned out in this election, but the age disparities are stark. For comparison,
17.4% of registered voters aged 65 and older turned out.

Even among registered Democrats and
Republicans, turnout was 20.1% for those 65 and older and only 2.3% for those
under 40.

This suggests that young voters are not
necessarily translating strong issue preferences into partisan vote choice, but
when issues are directly on the ballot they turn out in droves.

Whichever candidate or party can overcome this
youthful rejection of traditional political participation by finding ways to
connect themselves directly with specific policy issues will have the potential
to sway every election. 

Academic scholarship on civic engagement
points to four factors that increase political participation: trust (in
government and others), resources (time, money, knowledge), engagement
(psychological engagement, attitudes, efficacy), and invitations (from
activists, elected officials, parties, candidates).

Historically, young people have had the lowest
levels on all of these indicators. 

But the tide seems to be turning. Nationally,
young people had higher than average turnout in the 2018 and 2020 elections.
Here in Kansas, they had higher than average turnout in 2022.

These higher turnout levels were in direct
response to candidates and parties targeting young voters and their policy
preferences.

Young people represent a significant portion
of the electorate and as they become a larger share of eligible voters, their
influence on elections and policy decisions only grows.

Their engagement has the potential to shift
political priorities and electoral outcomes.

Don’t count out Kansas’ young voters.

Note: All Kansas voter registration data is
from <a href="https://www.ike-lab.com/index.html">IKE
Lab</a>, a project affiliated with Wichita State University focused on
data and analysis about Kansas elections.

Alexandra
Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science
Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasWith a coveted Taylor Swift endorsement
rolling out earlier this month, everyone seems to be talking about the
engagement of young voters this election cycle.Young people — typically, this is measured by
those under the age of 35 — are often touted as apathetic and not caring about
politics.But political science research suggests this
assertion couldn’t be further from the truth. Young people are very interested
in political issues, they’re just less willing to engage in mainstream forms of
political participation like voting and joining political parties.They’ve replaced these traditional forms of
democratic participation with alternative approaches like social movements,
rallies, protests, and consumer boycotts.The 2022 election cycle in Kansas shows us,
perhaps even more than previous generations, that young people are issue
voters. They’re less mobilized by candidates and parties but they are mobilized
strongly by salient political issues. In 2022, the issue was the fall of Roe v. Wade and Kansas’ constitutional
amendment on abortion access.The week following the Supreme Court decision
to overturn Roe v. Wade, the average
age of new voter registrations was 25. During that same week in 2020, the
average age of new registrants was 36.This increase in voter registration among
young people led to their higher than normal turnout in the primary election
that year.37.4% of registered voters under the age of 40
cast a ballot in the 2022 primary election.However, if we compare turnout to the 2024
presidential primary in March of this year, young voter turnout drops
significantly. Only 1.5% of all registrants under the age of 40 cast a ballot. In total, only 7.1% of registered voters
turned out in this election, but the age disparities are stark. For comparison,
17.4% of registered voters aged 65 and older turned out.Even among registered Democrats and
Republicans, turnout was 20.1% for those 65 and older and only 2.3% for those
under 40.This suggests that young voters are not
necessarily translating strong issue preferences into partisan vote choice, but
when issues are directly on the ballot they turn out in droves.Whichever candidate or party can overcome this
youthful rejection of traditional political participation by finding ways to
connect themselves directly with specific policy issues will have the potential
to sway every election. Academic scholarship on civic engagement
points to four factors that increase political participation: trust (in
government and others), resources (time, money, knowledge), engagement
(psychological engagement, attitudes, efficacy), and invitations (from
activists, elected officials, parties, candidates).Historically, young people have had the lowest
levels on all of these indicators. But the tide seems to be turning. Nationally,
young people had higher than average turnout in the 2018 and 2020 elections.
Here in Kansas, they had higher than average turnout in 2022.These higher turnout levels were in direct
response to candidates and parties targeting young voters and their policy
preferences.Young people represent a significant portion
of the electorate and as they become a larger share of eligible voters, their
influence on elections and policy decisions only grows.Their engagement has the potential to shift
political priorities and electoral outcomes.Don’t count out Kansas’ young voters.Note: All Kansas voter registration data is
from <a href="https://www.ike-lab.com/index.html">IKE
Lab</a>, a project affiliated with Wichita State University focused on
data and analysis about Kansas elections.Alexandra
Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science
Department at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Don't count out Kansas' young voters

It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. The abundance of grasshoppers being observed now is likely due to the weather patterns of the last couple seasons. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. Despite many areas still being impacted by some level of drought, sporadic rainfall over the growing season has helped weeds persist in many areas of the state, which has likely contributed to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.

Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.

Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure as the insects can consume a large amount of leaf material before succumbing to the seed treatments. It is advisable to avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.

Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Alfalfa Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdf Wheat Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdf

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIt is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. The abundance of grasshoppers being observed now is likely due to the weather patterns of the last couple seasons. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. Despite many areas still being impacted by some level of drought, sporadic rainfall over the growing season has helped weeds persist in many areas of the state, which has likely contributed to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure as the insects can consume a large amount of leaf material before succumbing to the seed treatments. It is advisable to avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Alfalfa Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdf Wheat Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdfStacy 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: Grasshoppers are abundant in many areas of Kansas

Grain Belt Express, or GBE, is a renewable energy project owned by Chicago-based Invenergy Transmission LLC. It is a 780-mile line scheduled to originate in Kansas, run through Missouri and Illinois, and connect to the electric power grid in Indiana. From there, power will allegedly be transmitted to the Northeastern United States, even though Invenergy has no signed customers to date.

There’s a serious problem with how this project is being presented to the public. A great divide exists between the PR hype about the advanced technology needed to create a new energy future for America and the actual execution of Grain Belt Express as it pertains to construction. Specifically, renewable energy will be generated by wind and solar farms, but the power coming from these energy nodes will be transported using technology invented in the late nineteenth century. The towers —steel girders that support four to eight high-voltage power lines — are 160 feet tall and are anchored in concrete bases approximately forty to sixty feet wide.

The basic architectural design of the towers hasn’t changed in approximately 130 years. Invenergy, however, claims that Grain Belt Express will revolutionize the energy grid by ushering in a new, clean, green source of power that will extend into the twenty-second century. The “disconnect” is that the transmission of wind and solar power is (and will continue to be) accomplished using archaic technology.

The websites for Grain Belt Express and Invenergy describe both companies as innovators in renewable energy technology. They claim that the companies are involved in bringing new power “… in every aspect of project design, construction, and operations ….” And yet, the idea of transmitting electricity via direct current (DC) goes as far back as Thomas Edison’s idea on energy transmission. Furthermore, Grain Belt Express and Invenergy admit that America has an “aging energy infrastructure in the Midwest.” This is certainly true, but infrastructure is not just comprised of the lines; it primarily consists of the steel towers. There is nothing innovative about outdated towers used in centuries past. They represent old designs and old construction methods, and the nature of electricity, of course, hasn’t changed either. Invenergy has no new design, construction, or operation of its transmission infrastructure.

The towers have a lifespan of approximately forty to sixty years. During that time, they need constant maintenance because of high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires. The main reason towers need maintenance, however, is because the steel girders suffer stress fatigue and chemical erosion early in their lifespan. In other words, they crack, rust, and crumble. Even the nuts and bolts that hold different sections together begin to loosen, rust, and fall to the ground. Does this sound like cutting-edge technology to build a new American energy grid?

Additionally, lines and towers scar the landscape and threaten the environment. High-voltage lines cause many wildfires every year because of lightning strikes and arcing, which is when an electrical discharge moves from the lines to the ground. The towers can be seriously damaged and even fall over in high winds, and icing during blizzards put extreme stress on sagging lines. Add to this that the land is seriously compromised during the construction phase by oils, lubricants, and other chemicals that are contaminants to the soil, grasses, shrubbery, and trees within a mile of the project. These hazardous chemicals can remain in the soil for years, and they also pollute nearby aquifers and water tables. Also, gas and exhaust from machinery pose a threat to human health.

This method of construction does not represent twenty-first century technology. Towers using a design conceived in the nineteenth century cannot be equated with the innovations touted by Invenergy, which promises new infrastructure and advanced technology. Slick company PR about a new energy future is merely hype, unless it wants to go all in and actually create a new infrastructure as well.

There is indeed a way to transmit electricity with twenty-first century technology, and it’s called co-location. Lines are buried along highways and railroad lines, areas where eminent domain has already been invoked. While the process may be slightly more expensive than building steel towers, the savings accrued from less maintenance and repair are considerable. Co-location pays for itself in less than ten years. And depending on the terrain, co-location is often cheaper than building towers in the first place. It’s a win-win situation for energy needs, corporations, and landowners. I’ve written on co-location in great detail, and you can learn more about it at <a href="http://www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org">www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org.</a>

Invenergy is already using co-location in many areas in the United States and around the world. The question is why it is avoiding this advanced technology in the Midwest. The answer is that older construction methods are cheaper. Invenergy, like most merchant energy lines, eventually intends to sell the project to other companies, on whom the burden will fall to maintain the lines and towers.

If Invenergy and Grain Belt Express wished to honor their pledge to create a new energy future, they wouldn’t be using old technology when using co-location along existing rights-of-way could easily be accomplished. Twenty-first century power needs twenty-first century construction methods and infrastructure. It’s that simple.

— Tammy Hammond Founder and CEO, Rosewood Services

Grain Belt Express, or GBE, is a renewable energy project owned by Chicago-based Invenergy Transmission LLC. It is a 780-mile line scheduled to originate in Kansas, run through Missouri and Illinois, and connect to the electric power grid in Indiana. From there, power will allegedly be transmitted to the Northeastern United States, even though Invenergy has no signed customers to date.There’s a serious problem with how this project is being presented to the public. A great divide exists between the PR hype about the advanced technology needed to create a new energy future for America and the actual execution of Grain Belt Express as it pertains to construction. Specifically, renewable energy will be generated by wind and solar farms, but the power coming from these energy nodes will be transported using technology invented in the late nineteenth century. The towers —steel girders that support four to eight high-voltage power lines — are 160 feet tall and are anchored in concrete bases approximately forty to sixty feet wide.The basic architectural design of the towers hasn’t changed in approximately 130 years. Invenergy, however, claims that Grain Belt Express will revolutionize the energy grid by ushering in a new, clean, green source of power that will extend into the twenty-second century. The “disconnect” is that the transmission of wind and solar power is (and will continue to be) accomplished using archaic technology.The websites for Grain Belt Express and Invenergy describe both companies as innovators in renewable energy technology. They claim that the companies are involved in bringing new power “… in every aspect of project design, construction, and operations ….” And yet, the idea of transmitting electricity via direct current (DC) goes as far back as Thomas Edison’s idea on energy transmission. Furthermore, Grain Belt Express and Invenergy admit that America has an “aging energy infrastructure in the Midwest.” This is certainly true, but infrastructure is not just comprised of the lines; it primarily consists of the steel towers. There is nothing innovative about outdated towers used in centuries past. They represent old designs and old construction methods, and the nature of electricity, of course, hasn’t changed either. Invenergy has no new design, construction, or operation of its transmission infrastructure.The towers have a lifespan of approximately forty to sixty years. During that time, they need constant maintenance because of high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires. The main reason towers need maintenance, however, is because the steel girders suffer stress fatigue and chemical erosion early in their lifespan. In other words, they crack, rust, and crumble. Even the nuts and bolts that hold different sections together begin to loosen, rust, and fall to the ground. Does this sound like cutting-edge technology to build a new American energy grid?Additionally, lines and towers scar the landscape and threaten the environment. High-voltage lines cause many wildfires every year because of lightning strikes and arcing, which is when an electrical discharge moves from the lines to the ground. The towers can be seriously damaged and even fall over in high winds, and icing during blizzards put extreme stress on sagging lines. Add to this that the land is seriously compromised during the construction phase by oils, lubricants, and other chemicals that are contaminants to the soil, grasses, shrubbery, and trees within a mile of the project. These hazardous chemicals can remain in the soil for years, and they also pollute nearby aquifers and water tables. Also, gas and exhaust from machinery pose a threat to human health.This method of construction does not represent twenty-first century technology. Towers using a design conceived in the nineteenth century cannot be equated with the innovations touted by Invenergy, which promises new infrastructure and advanced technology. Slick company PR about a new energy future is merely hype, unless it wants to go all in and actually create a new infrastructure as well.There is indeed a way to transmit electricity with twenty-first century technology, and it’s called co-location. Lines are buried along highways and railroad lines, areas where eminent domain has already been invoked. While the process may be slightly more expensive than building steel towers, the savings accrued from less maintenance and repair are considerable. Co-location pays for itself in less than ten years. And depending on the terrain, co-location is often cheaper than building towers in the first place. It’s a win-win situation for energy needs, corporations, and landowners. I’ve written on co-location in great detail, and you can learn more about it at <a href="http://www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org">www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org.</a>Invenergy is already using co-location in many areas in the United States and around the world. The question is why it is avoiding this advanced technology in the Midwest. The answer is that older construction methods are cheaper. Invenergy, like most merchant energy lines, eventually intends to sell the project to other companies, on whom the burden will fall to maintain the lines and towers.If Invenergy and Grain Belt Express wished to honor their pledge to create a new energy future, they wouldn’t be using old technology when using co-location along existing rights-of-way could easily be accomplished. Twenty-first century power needs twenty-first century construction methods and infrastructure. It’s that simple.— Tammy Hammond Founder and CEO, Rosewood Services

LETTER: Great Bend business owner questions energy proposal

Hedge apples, direct to you! Placing hedge apples around the foundation or inside a basement provides relief from cockroaches, spiders, box elder bugs, crickets, and other pests sums up a headline I read.

Why would anyone want hedge apples? Aren’t they ugly green fruits that look like a brain? In fact, green brain is another term for hedge apples along with Osage orange, hedge ball, and monkey ball. In short time, I learned more than I needed to know about these weird fruits, so I’ll share.

My quest to learn about hedge apples began when I found a source near my daughter’s house. I’d read they repel insects and other pests, so I played scientist to test this hypothesis.

I carried three spicy scented, oddly textured fruits home and set them on the patio to cure. (I’d not yet learned these perform best fresh.) The next morning as I headed to town, I noticed one hedge apple had vanished. In a hurry, I blamed our big yellow dog who occasionally entertained himself with objects left outside.

That afternoon, I returned to discover the disappearance of every hedge apple. A confirmed mystery lover, I began my quest. Where were my hedge balls? Although they don’t stink, their scent wouldn’t repeatedly attract our dog. In fact, he doesn’t like spicy, fruity smells. I know. I once fed him leftover fried apples.

Perhaps my husband tossed them, unaware of my natural pest control interest. Sometimes my experiments turn out poorly, so he might not recognize a good one in process.

Before he arrived to face interrogation, I found greenish remains. Nothing about them resembled a ball, an orange, or a brain. Something carried them from porch to nearby cedar and exploded them to smithereens. Reassembling that mess would confound any crime scene investigator.

That night I explained this mystery and showed my spouse the multitudinous bits. He immediately blamed squirrels, which I considered lame since our ample squirrel population made an obvious target. He added he frequently witnessed exploded shreds beneath country hedgerows. Still curious, I visited cyber space, researching hedge apples. My findings fascinated me.

Osage orange trees, native to eastern Texas, southeast Oklahoma, and southwestern Arkansas, produce hedge apples. Since humans don’t eat them and few animals (except squirrels) do, it begged a question. Why find hedgerows full of Osage orange trees across Kansas, a much drier, cooler climate than its native region?

Further reading offered an answer. Large thorns arm its branches. Prior to barb-wire’s invention, ranchers and farmers planted these trees around their land. Livestock couldn’t penetrate this “living fence,” which explains hedgerows in Kansas. These trees thrive as far as Iowa, so many old farmsteads showcase unusual “fencing.”

Unlike other introduced species that do more harm than good, consider this tree a boon. It tolerates poor soil, heat, and strong wind--a perfect Kansas tree. It also transplants well, resists disease, and produces durable and beautiful wood. I saw a garden bench made of Osage orange, and its orange, yellow, and brown hues set that bench apart from the ordinary--as much art as utilitarian.

Due to this wood’s strength, it makes great fence posts, insulator pins, furniture, and archery bows. Some claim it best for archery bows, leading the French to name the tree, bois d’arc, meaning bow wood. Since it thrives under difficult conditions, Kansans ought to plant more.

Back to this trees’ fruits, my experiment proceeded. I anticipated relief from our autumnal box elder beetle invasion. Spiders planning to share our house would seek alternate lodging, and crickets would find new sites to practice obnoxious tunes. To encourage me, one site sold this natural repellent at $1.50 a hedge apple, plus shipping.

In this case, you’ll have to wait to next week to find out how my experiment turned into a horror movie plot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726072785752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINHedge apples, direct to you! Placing hedge apples around the foundation or inside a basement provides relief from cockroaches, spiders, box elder bugs, crickets, and other pests sums up a headline I read.Why would anyone want hedge apples? Aren’t they ugly green fruits that look like a brain? In fact, green brain is another term for hedge apples along with Osage orange, hedge ball, and monkey ball. In short time, I learned more than I needed to know about these weird fruits, so I’ll share.My quest to learn about hedge apples began when I found a source near my daughter’s house. I’d read they repel insects and other pests, so I played scientist to test this hypothesis.I carried three spicy scented, oddly textured fruits home and set them on the patio to cure. (I’d not yet learned these perform best fresh.) The next morning as I headed to town, I noticed one hedge apple had vanished. In a hurry, I blamed our big yellow dog who occasionally entertained himself with objects left outside.That afternoon, I returned to discover the disappearance of every hedge apple. A confirmed mystery lover, I began my quest. Where were my hedge balls? Although they don’t stink, their scent wouldn’t repeatedly attract our dog. In fact, he doesn’t like spicy, fruity smells. I know. I once fed him leftover fried apples.Perhaps my husband tossed them, unaware of my natural pest control interest. Sometimes my experiments turn out poorly, so he might not recognize a good one in process.Before he arrived to face interrogation, I found greenish remains. Nothing about them resembled a ball, an orange, or a brain. Something carried them from porch to nearby cedar and exploded them to smithereens. Reassembling that mess would confound any crime scene investigator.That night I explained this mystery and showed my spouse the multitudinous bits. He immediately blamed squirrels, which I considered lame since our ample squirrel population made an obvious target. He added he frequently witnessed exploded shreds beneath country hedgerows. Still curious, I visited cyber space, researching hedge apples. My findings fascinated me.Osage orange trees, native to eastern Texas, southeast Oklahoma, and southwestern Arkansas, produce hedge apples. Since humans don’t eat them and few animals (except squirrels) do, it begged a question. Why find hedgerows full of Osage orange trees across Kansas, a much drier, cooler climate than its native region?Further reading offered an answer. Large thorns arm its branches. Prior to barb-wire’s invention, ranchers and farmers planted these trees around their land. Livestock couldn’t penetrate this “living fence,” which explains hedgerows in Kansas. These trees thrive as far as Iowa, so many old farmsteads showcase unusual “fencing.”Unlike other introduced species that do more harm than good, consider this tree a boon. It tolerates poor soil, heat, and strong wind--a perfect Kansas tree. It also transplants well, resists disease, and produces durable and beautiful wood. I saw a garden bench made of Osage orange, and its orange, yellow, and brown hues set that bench apart from the ordinary--as much art as utilitarian.Due to this wood’s strength, it makes great fence posts, insulator pins, furniture, and archery bows. Some claim it best for archery bows, leading the French to name the tree, bois d’arc, meaning bow wood. Since it thrives under difficult conditions, Kansans ought to plant more.Back to this trees’ fruits, my experiment proceeded. I anticipated relief from our autumnal box elder beetle invasion. Spiders planning to share our house would seek alternate lodging, and crickets would find new sites to practice obnoxious tunes. To encourage me, one site sold this natural repellent at $1.50 a hedge apple, plus shipping.In this case, you’ll have to wait to next week to find out how my experiment turned into a horror movie plot.

MADORIN:  Hedge Apples – Part One

Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.

Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.

Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;

If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotlineat 988.

You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.

Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a>

<a href="https://thecentergb.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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictSuicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotlineat 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are additional resources:National Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/">https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.sprc.org/">https://www.sprc.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention">https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;State Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas">https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.ksphq.org/">https://www.ksphq.org/</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a><ul>
 <li>The Center for Counseling and Consultation. 24/7 Crisis line –620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://thecentergb.org/">https://thecentergb.org/</a> </li>
 </ul><a href="https://thecentergb.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: Suicide prevention

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District will be hosting our annual make and take pizza night in honor of National Family Day on September 23, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at our office located at 601 Main Street in Hays.

Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners. Research shows family dinners are a great way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors as reported by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Colombia University. Not only are family dinners a way to bring families together but young children can also learn valuable life skills. Cooking is an important life skill for children to learn before they grow up and are out on their own. Knowing how to plan menus, budget for food, and follow a recipe provides many skills that will help children as they become adults. Knowing how to cook meals versus heating something up from a box can also aid our children’s health. Processed foods often have many added ingredients that can lead to health issues. Having children help in the kitchen teaches them math skills and to follow directions. When children help prepare meals they tend to have more motivation to eat the meal as well. If they have taken part in preparation they are more likely to try new foods and recipes. This can be particularly helpful for picky eaters!

I want to give a shout out to our sponsors. Papa Murphy’s donates the pizza crusts and Kiwanis gives a donation to help buy toppings as well as fruit and vegetables. Thank you very much! We couldn’t hold this night without their continued support every year!

Come join us for a low cost and healthy meal that you can make with your children. Please RSVP and pay the $3 per pizza at 601 Main Street by Sept 20, 2024. We are continuing online registration this year. Use the link&nbsp; <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvw">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvw</a>

I hope to see many of you there. If you ever have any questions or would like a program about healthy eating, food safety, budgeting, or staying active, please reach out to me. You can find me at our office on Main Street or you can call or email anytime.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictK-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District will be hosting our annual make and take pizza night in honor of National Family Day on September 23, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at our office located at 601 Main Street in Hays.Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners. Research shows family dinners are a great way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors as reported by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Colombia University. Not only are family dinners a way to bring families together but young children can also learn valuable life skills. Cooking is an important life skill for children to learn before they grow up and are out on their own. Knowing how to plan menus, budget for food, and follow a recipe provides many skills that will help children as they become adults. Knowing how to cook meals versus heating something up from a box can also aid our children’s health. Processed foods often have many added ingredients that can lead to health issues. Having children help in the kitchen teaches them math skills and to follow directions. When children help prepare meals they tend to have more motivation to eat the meal as well. If they have taken part in preparation they are more likely to try new foods and recipes. This can be particularly helpful for picky eaters!I want to give a shout out to our sponsors. Papa Murphy’s donates the pizza crusts and Kiwanis gives a donation to help buy toppings as well as fruit and vegetables. Thank you very much! We couldn’t hold this night without their continued support every year!Come join us for a low cost and healthy meal that you can make with your children. Please RSVP and pay the $3 per pizza at 601 Main Street by Sept 20, 2024. We are continuing online registration this year. Use the link&nbsp; <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvw">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvw</a>I hope to see many of you there. If you ever have any questions or would like a program about healthy eating, food safety, budgeting, or staying active, please reach out to me. You can find me at our office on Main Street or you can call or email anytime.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Family Pizza Day

Whether you’ve had a bad day and need some quiet time, or whether your faith has taken a hit lately and you need some assurance that there is still good in this world, take a drive along any back road going anywhere in Kansas right now and let God treat you to a spectacle only He can provide in the form of acre-after-acre of brightly shimmering wild sunflowers in the ditches and fencerows. As you drive along, thousands of luminescent yellow heads appear to guide your way and offer a boost to your spirits.

Did you know that the sunflower is the only crop grown for seed that was domesticated right here in the USA? Sunflowers were a common crop among Native American tribes throughout North America, and Spanish explorers took the exotic plants back to Europe in the 1500’s. Sunflowers were first grown for food in Russia. By the early 19th century, Russian farmers were growing over 2 million acres, and by the late 19th century, Russian sunflower seed had found it’s way back to North America again. Though different from domestic sunflowers in many ways, wild sunflowers are the genetic basis of today’s commercially grown crop. Domestic sunflower blooms appear to follow the sun across the horizon each day, but once the radiant flowers open, they actually face east for the rest of their lives. This is possibly a defense mechanism, as facing any other direction could scald the seeds before they ripen. Wild sunflowers don’t seem to care which direction they face.

In 2023, US farmers grew just over 1.3 million acres of domestic sunflowers, 36,000 of those acres were grown here in KS, putting us in 6th place behind North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Texas and Nebraska. Total 2023 domestic sunflower production in the US totaled 2.3 billion pounds. Russia, Ukraine, the European Union, Argentina and Turkey make up the top 5 world producers of domestic sunflower seed. The sunflower, by the way is the national flower of Russia.

Now, here’s a little “sunflower trivia,” compliments of the Guinness Book of World Records. A sunflower grown in Germany holds the record for the tallest ever grown, at 30 feet, 1 inch, a sunflower grown in British Columbia boasts the widest head ever recorded at over 32 inches across, a sunflower head weighing over 14 pounds grown in Wales is the heaviest sunflower head on record, and a sunflower grown in Michigan claims the most heads with 837 sunflower heads on one plant.

In 1903, the sunflower became the state flower of Kansas. As history has it, in 1901, George Morehouse, a state senator from Council Grove, attended a rodeo in Colorado Springs where all the Kansas folk in attendance wore sunflowers identifying them as Kansans. So moved and inspired by the Kansas spirit was he, that upon returning home, he drafted the bill naming the sunflower as our state flower. In this original bill, Morehouse stated “This flower has to all Kansans an historical symbolism which speaks of frontier days, winding trails, pathless prairie and is full of the life and glory of the past, the pride of the present and richly emblematic of the majesty of the golden future, and is a flower which has given Kansas the world-wide name “The Sunflower State.”

The last couple years we’ve had typical Kansas summer weather, dried and roasted, but like the mailman, those Kansas wild sunflowers don’t seem to care. They fill the ditches

and pastures of our state with a gazillion gleaming jewels fit for any king’s crown. So take a lesson from the wild sunflower and when life deals you adverse conditions. turn them into sunflower seeds! (I know that doesn’t make sense but it sounds cool) Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsWhether you’ve had a bad day and need some quiet time, or whether your faith has taken a hit lately and you need some assurance that there is still good in this world, take a drive along any back road going anywhere in Kansas right now and let God treat you to a spectacle only He can provide in the form of acre-after-acre of brightly shimmering wild sunflowers in the ditches and fencerows. As you drive along, thousands of luminescent yellow heads appear to guide your way and offer a boost to your spirits.Did you know that the sunflower is the only crop grown for seed that was domesticated right here in the USA? Sunflowers were a common crop among Native American tribes throughout North America, and Spanish explorers took the exotic plants back to Europe in the 1500’s. Sunflowers were first grown for food in Russia. By the early 19th century, Russian farmers were growing over 2 million acres, and by the late 19th century, Russian sunflower seed had found it’s way back to North America again. Though different from domestic sunflowers in many ways, wild sunflowers are the genetic basis of today’s commercially grown crop. Domestic sunflower blooms appear to follow the sun across the horizon each day, but once the radiant flowers open, they actually face east for the rest of their lives. This is possibly a defense mechanism, as facing any other direction could scald the seeds before they ripen. Wild sunflowers don’t seem to care which direction they face.In 2023, US farmers grew just over 1.3 million acres of domestic sunflowers, 36,000 of those acres were grown here in KS, putting us in 6th place behind North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Texas and Nebraska. Total 2023 domestic sunflower production in the US totaled 2.3 billion pounds. Russia, Ukraine, the European Union, Argentina and Turkey make up the top 5 world producers of domestic sunflower seed. The sunflower, by the way is the national flower of Russia.Now, here’s a little “sunflower trivia,” compliments of the Guinness Book of World Records. A sunflower grown in Germany holds the record for the tallest ever grown, at 30 feet, 1 inch, a sunflower grown in British Columbia boasts the widest head ever recorded at over 32 inches across, a sunflower head weighing over 14 pounds grown in Wales is the heaviest sunflower head on record, and a sunflower grown in Michigan claims the most heads with 837 sunflower heads on one plant.In 1903, the sunflower became the state flower of Kansas. As history has it, in 1901, George Morehouse, a state senator from Council Grove, attended a rodeo in Colorado Springs where all the Kansas folk in attendance wore sunflowers identifying them as Kansans. So moved and inspired by the Kansas spirit was he, that upon returning home, he drafted the bill naming the sunflower as our state flower. In this original bill, Morehouse stated “This flower has to all Kansans an historical symbolism which speaks of frontier days, winding trails, pathless prairie and is full of the life and glory of the past, the pride of the present and richly emblematic of the majesty of the golden future, and is a flower which has given Kansas the world-wide name “The Sunflower State.”The last couple years we’ve had typical Kansas summer weather, dried and roasted, but like the mailman, those Kansas wild sunflowers don’t seem to care. They fill the ditchesand pastures of our state with a gazillion gleaming jewels fit for any king’s crown. So take a lesson from the wild sunflower and when life deals you adverse conditions. turn them into sunflower seeds! (I know that doesn’t make sense but it sounds cool) Continue to Explore Kansas OutdoorsSteve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Sunflower state of mind

By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight Kansas

While the 2024 presidential election may be more than a month and half away, it is time for Kansans to make a voting plan and check their voter registration status. This is because Kansas has chosen not to implement same-day voter registration.

For the most part, election law is state law. States decide the process and requirements for voter registration. In Kansas, voters hoping to participate in this year’s presidential election must register by October 15, which is 21 days prior to Election Day. Comparatively, nearly half of U.S. states allow citizens to register and vote on the same day.

Same-day voter registration is a policy that allows eligible citizens to both register and vote on the same day, typically during early voting periods or on Election Day itself.

Advocates for same-day voter registration argue that it has several benefits. First, it can lead to higher voter turnout. Same-day registration is convenient. It streamlines the process and removes bureaucratic barriers that dissuade some from participating.

Same-day registration also allows people to register and vote at a time when their interest in the election is most immediate. Not all potential voters are thinking about the actual process and requirements of voting weeks prior to the election. By allowing them to legally register and cast a ballot on Election Day, you encourage more people to engage in the democratic process.

Same-day registration also addresses the issue of voter disenfranchisement due to outdated or inaccurate voter rolls. Voters that discover that they have been purged from voter lists or that their registration information is incorrect on Election Day can correct their registration status and still participate if the state allows same-day registration. This flexibility is particularly important for younger voters, minorities, and people who move frequently, as they are more likely to encounter registration issues.

Finally, same-day registration strengthens democracy by making it more inclusive. Voter registration barriers disproportionately affect marginalized communities and removing them ensures that a broader cross-section of the population can have their votes heard. This leads to a more representative government.

Arguments against same-day registration typically rely on fears over voter fraud. However, research suggests that voter fraud is extremely rare across the United States, including in states that allow same-day registration.

Some opponents also argue that same-day registration puts additional burdens and pressure on election officials and poll workers. However, with adequate preparation and staffing, these concerns can be addressed prior to Election Day.

In conclusion, same-day voter registration is a powerful tool for increasing voter turnout, reducing disenfranchisement, and promoting a healthy, inclusive democracy. Currently, Kansas does not appear ready to move in this direction. Therefore, I encourage all Kansans to check their registration status now to make sure they are ready to cast their ballots in November.

You can check your registration status at&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>. You can find information about registering to vote at&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html">https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678373196929.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight KansasWhile the 2024 presidential election may be more than a month and half away, it is time for Kansans to make a voting plan and check their voter registration status. This is because Kansas has chosen not to implement same-day voter registration.For the most part, election law is state law. States decide the process and requirements for voter registration. In Kansas, voters hoping to participate in this year’s presidential election must register by October 15, which is 21 days prior to Election Day. Comparatively, nearly half of U.S. states allow citizens to register and vote on the same day.Same-day voter registration is a policy that allows eligible citizens to both register and vote on the same day, typically during early voting periods or on Election Day itself.Advocates for same-day voter registration argue that it has several benefits. First, it can lead to higher voter turnout. Same-day registration is convenient. It streamlines the process and removes bureaucratic barriers that dissuade some from participating.Same-day registration also allows people to register and vote at a time when their interest in the election is most immediate. Not all potential voters are thinking about the actual process and requirements of voting weeks prior to the election. By allowing them to legally register and cast a ballot on Election Day, you encourage more people to engage in the democratic process.Same-day registration also addresses the issue of voter disenfranchisement due to outdated or inaccurate voter rolls. Voters that discover that they have been purged from voter lists or that their registration information is incorrect on Election Day can correct their registration status and still participate if the state allows same-day registration. This flexibility is particularly important for younger voters, minorities, and people who move frequently, as they are more likely to encounter registration issues.Finally, same-day registration strengthens democracy by making it more inclusive. Voter registration barriers disproportionately affect marginalized communities and removing them ensures that a broader cross-section of the population can have their votes heard. This leads to a more representative government.Arguments against same-day registration typically rely on fears over voter fraud. However, research suggests that voter fraud is extremely rare across the United States, including in states that allow same-day registration.Some opponents also argue that same-day registration puts additional burdens and pressure on election officials and poll workers. However, with adequate preparation and staffing, these concerns can be addressed prior to Election Day.In conclusion, same-day voter registration is a powerful tool for increasing voter turnout, reducing disenfranchisement, and promoting a healthy, inclusive democracy. Currently, Kansas does not appear ready to move in this direction. Therefore, I encourage all Kansans to check their registration status now to make sure they are ready to cast their ballots in November.You can check your registration status at&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview</a>. You can find information about registering to vote at&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html">https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html</a>.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opinion