On January 11, 2024 Governor Laura Kelly released her budget for fiscal year 2025 to the Joint Committee of House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means.

The presentation focused on many, though not all, of the themes from the Governor’s State of the State speech the day before.

The first was to spend $1 billion of the state’s surplus funds for one-time expenditures, those expenditures being split into the categories of capital projects, debt payoff, and community investment.

Second was targeted tax relief to help Kansans. The governor’s proposal would exempt Social Security income from the state income tax, increase the state income tax standard deduction, hasten the elimination of the state sales tax, double the childcare tax credit, and expand the residential exemption on 20 mills property tax. I will focus on the governor’s tax plan later. 

Third, was the expansion of the Medicaid program in Kansas. Similar arguments were made in favor of the governor’s proposal, with some alterations, those being a work requirement for enrollees, a new hospital surcharge, and the coverage of health costs for incarcerated individuals in county facilities.

Fourth was education. The governor’s budget seeks to increase spending for early childhood care and education, increase spending for teacher mentor programs, expand pilot programs, and increase state funding for special education and post-secondary education. 

Next was water, where the governor proposed fully funding the State Water Plan, establishing a Water Institute at K-State University, and increasing spending for small town infrastructure through KDHE.

Last was pay for state employees. The governor’s budget would increase pay for both entry level and management state employees.

On Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, Governor Kelly delivered her State of the State speech in Topeka. In it she remarked on the improvement Kansas has seen in the past several years and her priorities for this session. Such improvements were greater business investment and increased infrastructure investment, both being accomplished with bipartisan support.

Regarding her priorities, Kelly spoke first on protecting Kansas rural communities. She remarked on the strong values of our rural areas, their importance in our economy, and the need to improve their quality of life,&nbsp; to which I agree heartily. Kelly then pivoted to Medicaid expansion, which is unlikely to move forward. Next was public education, focusing on funding for special education and opposition to school vouchers.

Kelly next moved to taxes, aiming at earlier elimination of the state’s sales tax and reducing others. Kelly’s final topic was water conservation, highlighting its importance and sustainability.

On the first day of the 2024 Legislative Session, January 8, Governor Kelly released her plan for reducing taxes.

The first provision of her tax plan is to exempt the first $100,000 in state property taxes for all Kansas homeowners. Raising the exemption will cost $100 million.

The plan entirely eliminates state taxes on Social Security income. Eliminating the tax on Social Security income will save around $525 million for retired Kansans.

The tax plan increases the standard deduction many Kansans use to reduce their taxable income. The plan raises the standard deduction for single Kansans from $3,500 to $5,000, for those with head of household filing status from $6,000 to $7,500, and for those married filing jointly from $8,000 to $10,000.

The tax plan eliminates the state's sales tax on groceries and ingredients by April 1 this year, instead of waiting until 2025. It also eliminates the state sales tax on diapers and feminine hygiene products.

Additionally, her package doubles the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit that parents can claim to help pay for child and dependent care while they work or attend school. These tax credits are estimated to save Kansas families $18 million over three years.

The plan creates a back-to-school state sales tax holiday, even though it has been proven that such does not work.

I find it ironic that the governor has introduced this plan with many components that would have provided tax relief last session had she not vetoed it, twice.

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

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me at 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions.&nbsp;

I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621346439026.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>January 13, 2024</h2><h2>Governor’s Budget</h2>On January 11, 2024 Governor Laura Kelly released her budget for fiscal year 2025 to the Joint Committee of House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means.The presentation focused on many, though not all, of the themes from the Governor’s State of the State speech the day before.The first was to spend $1 billion of the state’s surplus funds for one-time expenditures, those expenditures being split into the categories of capital projects, debt payoff, and community investment.Second was targeted tax relief to help Kansans. The governor’s proposal would exempt Social Security income from the state income tax, increase the state income tax standard deduction, hasten the elimination of the state sales tax, double the childcare tax credit, and expand the residential exemption on 20 mills property tax. I will focus on the governor’s tax plan later. Third, was the expansion of the Medicaid program in Kansas. Similar arguments were made in favor of the governor’s proposal, with some alterations, those being a work requirement for enrollees, a new hospital surcharge, and the coverage of health costs for incarcerated individuals in county facilities.Fourth was education. The governor’s budget seeks to increase spending for early childhood care and education, increase spending for teacher mentor programs, expand pilot programs, and increase state funding for special education and post-secondary education. Next was water, where the governor proposed fully funding the State Water Plan, establishing a Water Institute at K-State University, and increasing spending for small town infrastructure through KDHE.Last was pay for state employees. The governor’s budget would increase pay for both entry level and management state employees.<h2>State of the State</h2>On Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, Governor Kelly delivered her State of the State speech in Topeka. In it she remarked on the improvement Kansas has seen in the past several years and her priorities for this session. Such improvements were greater business investment and increased infrastructure investment, both being accomplished with bipartisan support.Regarding her priorities, Kelly spoke first on protecting Kansas rural communities. She remarked on the strong values of our rural areas, their importance in our economy, and the need to improve their quality of life,&nbsp; to which I agree heartily. Kelly then pivoted to Medicaid expansion, which is unlikely to move forward. Next was public education, focusing on funding for special education and opposition to school vouchers.Kelly next moved to taxes, aiming at earlier elimination of the state’s sales tax and reducing others. Kelly’s final topic was water conservation, highlighting its importance and sustainability.<h2>Governor Releases Tax Plan</h2>On the first day of the 2024 Legislative Session, January 8, Governor Kelly released her plan for reducing taxes.The first provision of her tax plan is to exempt the first $100,000 in state property taxes for all Kansas homeowners. Raising the exemption will cost $100 million.The plan entirely eliminates state taxes on Social Security income. Eliminating the tax on Social Security income will save around $525 million for retired Kansans.The tax plan increases the standard deduction many Kansans use to reduce their taxable income. The plan raises the standard deduction for single Kansans from $3,500 to $5,000, for those with head of household filing status from $6,000 to $7,500, and for those married filing jointly from $8,000 to $10,000.The tax plan eliminates the state's sales tax on groceries and ingredients by April 1 this year, instead of waiting until 2025. It also eliminates the state sales tax on diapers and feminine hygiene products.Additionally, her package doubles the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit that parents can claim to help pay for child and dependent care while they work or attend school. These tax credits are estimated to save Kansas families $18 million over three years.The plan creates a back-to-school state sales tax holiday, even though it has been proven that such does not work.I find it ironic that the governor has introduced this plan with many components that would have provided tax relief last session had she not vetoed it, twice.<h2>Contact Information</h2>Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me at 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions.&nbsp;I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Jan. 13

Does grocery shopping with health in mind overwhelm you? Maybe you have difficulty coming up with nutritious meal ideas, or maybe healthy foods seem to be out of your budget. However, building balanced meals for the whole family doesn’t have to be complicated or pricey.

The following list of foods are nutrient-packed items that your body and wallet will appreciate:

Beans. Beans are rich in fiber and protein. They are considered a staple ingredient in most Mediterranean meals as a protein source. In fact, occasionally substituting meat for beans could save you hundreds in groceries over a year. Plus, beans are versatile. You can add black beans to a burrito bowl, use kidney beans in your favorite chili soup, or roast garbanzo beans to toss in a salad. To top it off, beans are only $0.23 per serving.

Potatoes. Potatoes get a bad rap for being high in starch, but this natural, complex carb is nothing to fear. Starch from plants is an excellent fuel source when paired with lean protein and unsaturated fats. Potatoes are healthiest when prepared with less oil such as baked, roasted, or air-fried. Did I mention how versatile they are? The options are endless!

Bananas and apples. These two super fruits can be eaten as a snack, tossed in your bag for later, or added to baked goods. Bananas and apples are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Whole grains: brown rice, oatmeal, and pasta. Did you know that carbs are your body and brain’s No. 1 fuel source? This is why the USDA recommends that half of your diet be carbs. This is best achieved from a mixture of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Options like brown rice and pasta are fantastic bases for lunch and dinner while oatmeal can be a great start as part of a balanced breakfast!

Frozen vegetables. The freezer aisle is key to convenience, and it is handy to stock up on frozen produce that can be ready in minutes. Research has proven time and time again that a plant-based diet is the most important factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When purchased in bulk, store-brand frozen vegetables can be as low as $0.23 per serving.

Canned salmon. This protein-packed pantry essential is satiable and high in omega-3 fatty acids. This protein option is great in sandwiches, salads or pasta dishes. It is shelf-stable and is only $0.75 per serving.

Other items to consider adding to your shopping list are cottage cheese, peanut butter, canned tomatoes and ground turkey.

Who says eating healthy has to be expensive? Many whole food, nutrient-dense options are available at your nearest grocery store. Building meals from this list of affordable kitchen staples can be simple. First, choose at least one vegetable or fruit. Next, aim to fill a fourth of your plate with whole grains. Finally, choose a lean protein and healthy fat for a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank.

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.

Does grocery shopping with health in mind overwhelm you? Maybe you have difficulty coming up with nutritious meal ideas, or maybe healthy foods seem to be out of your budget. However, building balanced meals for the whole family doesn’t have to be complicated or pricey.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel</figcaption>
 </figure>The following list of foods are nutrient-packed items that your body and wallet will appreciate:Beans. Beans are rich in fiber and protein. They are considered a staple ingredient in most Mediterranean meals as a protein source. In fact, occasionally substituting meat for beans could save you hundreds in groceries over a year. Plus, beans are versatile. You can add black beans to a burrito bowl, use kidney beans in your favorite chili soup, or roast garbanzo beans to toss in a salad. To top it off, beans are only $0.23 per serving.Potatoes. Potatoes get a bad rap for being high in starch, but this natural, complex carb is nothing to fear. Starch from plants is an excellent fuel source when paired with lean protein and unsaturated fats. Potatoes are healthiest when prepared with less oil such as baked, roasted, or air-fried. Did I mention how versatile they are? The options are endless!Bananas and apples. These two super fruits can be eaten as a snack, tossed in your bag for later, or added to baked goods. Bananas and apples are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.Whole grains: brown rice, oatmeal, and pasta. Did you know that carbs are your body and brain’s No. 1 fuel source? This is why the USDA recommends that half of your diet be carbs. This is best achieved from a mixture of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Options like brown rice and pasta are fantastic bases for lunch and dinner while oatmeal can be a great start as part of a balanced breakfast!Frozen vegetables. The freezer aisle is key to convenience, and it is handy to stock up on frozen produce that can be ready in minutes. Research has proven time and time again that a plant-based diet is the most important factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When purchased in bulk, store-brand frozen vegetables can be as low as $0.23 per serving.Canned salmon. This protein-packed pantry essential is satiable and high in omega-3 fatty acids. This protein option is great in sandwiches, salads or pasta dishes. It is shelf-stable and is only $0.75 per serving.Other items to consider adding to your shopping list are cottage cheese, peanut butter, canned tomatoes and ground turkey.Who says eating healthy has to be expensive? Many whole food, nutrient-dense options are available at your nearest grocery store. Building meals from this list of affordable kitchen staples can be simple. First, choose at least one vegetable or fruit. Next, aim to fill a fourth of your plate with whole grains. Finally, choose a lean protein and healthy fat for a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank.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: Grocery shopping made simple: Affordable kitchen staples

It seems these days I do a lot of reminiscing about hunting and trapping adventures I’ve had over the years. Today, as I sat watching our two small pups napping on the couch, and contemplated a recent request I’d had to trap some problem beavers, stories of dogs I have known and beavers I have caught came flooding back. One story from years ago happened during trapping season and involved an old dog my sister had that was quite entertaining, but not the sharpest knife in the drawer.

Call it a problem, or call it an inconvenience, but a challenge for all of us hunters, fishermen and trappers who don’t live in the country or who don’t own land, is finding a place to unload carcasses and those “parts and pieces” remaining after cleaning fish and game. A friend recently told me that this summer someone had cleaned a mess of frogs and deposited the remains on the back corner of their property without permission; not good, and NO it wasn’t me! Anyway, that reminded me of this “incident” some years back, involving the above-mentioned dog.

My sister had an old dog named Jake, a stray as I remember it. Jake was old and a little crippled and was kind of the color of light brown gravy. Jake often seemed dumber than a bag of hammers, but he knew no strangers. He was big and stocky and when his tail got to waggin’ his whole back-end wagged. His back half would fling from side-to-side so violently I often expected something from back there to come loose and fly across the yard! He always greeted visitors with something in his mouth, wanting to play fetch; trouble was, that “something” was always a 2x4 or a tree limb about 4 feet long, and once his body got to waggin’ with his chosen tree limb or 2x4 in his mouth, he could easily take you out with a whack across the legs. Ole’ Jake’s obsession took him far and wide over the farm to find just the right object to carry around in his position as head greeter there.

Every livestock farm, like it or not has occasional casualties from sickness or cold weather. And every livestock farm has a “bone pile,” a spot somewhere in the “back 40” where carcasses can be dumped in a ravine or a briar patch as a way to discreetly dispose of them while Mother Nature and the coyotes compost them. The first year I trapped beavers here in Kansas, I learned to take advantage of the bone pile on my sister’s farm, which was several hundred yards from the buildings, as a convenient way to dispose of beaver carcasses after I had removed their pelts. I had traps nearby, so every time I caught a beaver, I’d just carry the carcass with me the following morning and deposit it on the pile when I was in the neighborhood; very convenient for me.

One particularly cold morning I got a call from my sister; she sounded a little miffed, but I could tell she was on the verge of laughter even as we spoke. It seems she looked out into the yard this cold frozen morning to find Jake playing with his usual large prize, but something looked odd about that day’s trophy, so curiosity sent her into the yard to see just what he had found this time. As she approached, Jake’s back end began to wag feverishly, thinking someone was coming to play fetch with him and his prize, and he spun around joyfully and greeted her with a frozen beaver carcass from the bone pile clenched proudly in his big yap!

Yup, dogs are the epitome of unconditional love and acceptance. One minute they can seem dumber than a box of rocks, the next minute they curl up beside you in your old recliner and become your most

loyal friend, despite the names you have just called them for performing certain hygiene functions in the middle of the dining room. Everyone of working age in our society today could also learn from a dog’s exuberance to work and / or to please its master. Mutts, you gotta; love em’! 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>It seems these days I do a lot of reminiscing about hunting and trapping adventures I’ve had over the years. Today, as I sat watching our two small pups napping on the couch, and contemplated a recent request I’d had to trap some problem beavers, stories of dogs I have known and beavers I have caught came flooding back. One story from years ago happened during trapping season and involved an old dog my sister had that was quite entertaining, but not the sharpest knife in the drawer.Call it a problem, or call it an inconvenience, but a challenge for all of us hunters, fishermen and trappers who don’t live in the country or who don’t own land, is finding a place to unload carcasses and those “parts and pieces” remaining after cleaning fish and game. A friend recently told me that this summer someone had cleaned a mess of frogs and deposited the remains on the back corner of their property without permission; not good, and NO it wasn’t me! Anyway, that reminded me of this “incident” some years back, involving the above-mentioned dog.My sister had an old dog named Jake, a stray as I remember it. Jake was old and a little crippled and was kind of the color of light brown gravy. Jake often seemed dumber than a bag of hammers, but he knew no strangers. He was big and stocky and when his tail got to waggin’ his whole back-end wagged. His back half would fling from side-to-side so violently I often expected something from back there to come loose and fly across the yard! He always greeted visitors with something in his mouth, wanting to play fetch; trouble was, that “something” was always a 2x4 or a tree limb about 4 feet long, and once his body got to waggin’ with his chosen tree limb or 2x4 in his mouth, he could easily take you out with a whack across the legs. Ole’ Jake’s obsession took him far and wide over the farm to find just the right object to carry around in his position as head greeter there.Every livestock farm, like it or not has occasional casualties from sickness or cold weather. And every livestock farm has a “bone pile,” a spot somewhere in the “back 40” where carcasses can be dumped in a ravine or a briar patch as a way to discreetly dispose of them while Mother Nature and the coyotes compost them. The first year I trapped beavers here in Kansas, I learned to take advantage of the bone pile on my sister’s farm, which was several hundred yards from the buildings, as a convenient way to dispose of beaver carcasses after I had removed their pelts. I had traps nearby, so every time I caught a beaver, I’d just carry the carcass with me the following morning and deposit it on the pile when I was in the neighborhood; very convenient for me.One particularly cold morning I got a call from my sister; she sounded a little miffed, but I could tell she was on the verge of laughter even as we spoke. It seems she looked out into the yard this cold frozen morning to find Jake playing with his usual large prize, but something looked odd about that day’s trophy, so curiosity sent her into the yard to see just what he had found this time. As she approached, Jake’s back end began to wag feverishly, thinking someone was coming to play fetch with him and his prize, and he spun around joyfully and greeted her with a frozen beaver carcass from the bone pile clenched proudly in his big yap!Yup, dogs are the epitome of unconditional love and acceptance. One minute they can seem dumber than a box of rocks, the next minute they curl up beside you in your old recliner and become your mostloyal friend, despite the names you have just called them for performing certain hygiene functions in the middle of the dining room. Everyone of working age in our society today could also learn from a dog’s exuberance to work and / or to please its master. Mutts, you gotta; love em’! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Jake and the Bone Pile

Given that Kansas’s state budget currently points towards a nearly $3 billion surplus, it’s inevitable that legislators have ideas about passing some of that surplus on to Kansans in the form of tax cuts. Of those ideas, some are much better than others.

On the first day of the 2024 legislative session, Governor Laura Kelly presented her own proposal, supported by a few key Republican legislators. It would increase state property tax exemptions and state income tax deductions, as well as provide tax credits for child care. It aims to eliminate the food tax outright, and establish a sales tax holiday for school supplies in August.

It’s a good plan, one the legislature should take seriously—more seriously, at least, than the Republican leadership’s plan to once again push for a flat tax, with all incomes, from the highest to the lowest, taxed at the exact same rate. Flat taxes do have some bureaucratic advantages—they make tax filing much simpler, and tax revenues more predictable—but they are also almost invariably regressive, with the tax burden comparatively falling harder on the poor than the rich.

Despite that unfairness, they’re favored by many, particularly businesses. Nationwide, the popularity of flat tax structures fluctuate: this year Georgia is instituting one, while Massachusetts is abandoning theirs. But either way, Kelly has insisted that the flat tax idea is a non-starter for Kansas, and the unless the Republican leadership can regain the support of their dissenters, the votes to override Kelly’s veto simply won’t be there.

So does that exhaust all possible tax reform options? It does not—because Kelly’s proposal doesn’t include what is probably the best idea out on the legislative table.

Remember that the point of taxes is to fund government programs which we, as citizens, see as benefiting our communities and thus worth paying for—police, fire, health care, sewer, parks, and more. A large portion of those costs are most directly borne by counties and cities, many of which are facing serious budget difficulties, leaving them with the option of either cutting needed programs or increasing local property and sales taxes (or both).

Thus one of the most responsible ways Kansas can help its citizens is by returning to a practice that worked very well for a slow-growth state like ours for more than 70 years: return a portion of state sales taxes to local governments through the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund.

The LAVTR doesn’t attract much attention; it’s a government policy that functions behind the scenes, helping municipalities make their budgets and encourage economic innovation by keeping local programs funded and costs low. Because it doesn’t put money directly into the pockets of individual citizens, it’s not an obvious political pitch. But those Kansas legislators with a sense of history and who see the need to keep local governments healthy as the national economy changes, haven’t forgotten about it. Governor Kelly shouldn’t either.

Putting the LAVTR, which went dormant during the early 2000s, back into the tax discussion won’t be easy; some leading legislators, being protective of their state power over what Kansans might locally prefer to see their tax money spent on, see it as little more than a slush fund. But if Governor Kelly and others really want to use this moment to think about tax changes that will both save money as well as help make public programs across the state more fiscally sustainable, reviving the LAVTR would be a great first step.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="Russell Fox" />
 <figcaption>Russell Fox</figcaption>
 </figure>Given that Kansas’s state budget currently points towards a nearly $3 billion surplus, it’s inevitable that legislators have ideas about passing some of that surplus on to Kansans in the form of tax cuts. Of those ideas, some are much better than others.On the first day of the 2024 legislative session, Governor Laura Kelly presented her own proposal, supported by a few key Republican legislators. It would increase state property tax exemptions and state income tax deductions, as well as provide tax credits for child care. It aims to eliminate the food tax outright, and establish a sales tax holiday for school supplies in August.It’s a good plan, one the legislature should take seriously—more seriously, at least, than the Republican leadership’s plan to once again push for a flat tax, with all incomes, from the highest to the lowest, taxed at the exact same rate. Flat taxes do have some bureaucratic advantages—they make tax filing much simpler, and tax revenues more predictable—but they are also almost invariably regressive, with the tax burden comparatively falling harder on the poor than the rich.Despite that unfairness, they’re favored by many, particularly businesses. Nationwide, the popularity of flat tax structures fluctuate: this year Georgia is instituting one, while Massachusetts is abandoning theirs. But either way, Kelly has insisted that the flat tax idea is a non-starter for Kansas, and the unless the Republican leadership can regain the support of their dissenters, the votes to override Kelly’s veto simply won’t be there.So does that exhaust all possible tax reform options? It does not—because Kelly’s proposal doesn’t include what is probably the best idea out on the legislative table.Remember that the point of taxes is to fund government programs which we, as citizens, see as benefiting our communities and thus worth paying for—police, fire, health care, sewer, parks, and more. A large portion of those costs are most directly borne by counties and cities, many of which are facing serious budget difficulties, leaving them with the option of either cutting needed programs or increasing local property and sales taxes (or both).Thus one of the most responsible ways Kansas can help its citizens is by returning to a practice that worked very well for a slow-growth state like ours for more than 70 years: return a portion of state sales taxes to local governments through the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund.The LAVTR doesn’t attract much attention; it’s a government policy that functions behind the scenes, helping municipalities make their budgets and encourage economic innovation by keeping local programs funded and costs low. Because it doesn’t put money directly into the pockets of individual citizens, it’s not an obvious political pitch. But those Kansas legislators with a sense of history and who see the need to keep local governments healthy as the national economy changes, haven’t forgotten about it. Governor Kelly shouldn’t either.Putting the LAVTR, which went dormant during the early 2000s, back into the tax discussion won’t be easy; some leading legislators, being protective of their state power over what Kansans might locally prefer to see their tax money spent on, see it as little more than a slush fund. But if Governor Kelly and others really want to use this moment to think about tax changes that will both save money as well as help make public programs across the state more fiscally sustainable, reviving the LAVTR would be a great first step.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: State Tax Proposals: Good, Bad, and Best

In 1915, Woodrow Wilson served as U.S. President. Typhoid Mary, working under a pseudonym, was sentenced to lifetime quarantine after infecting an additional 25 people while she cooked for a New York hospital. Dwight D. Eisenhower graduated from West Point with a 2nd Lt. commission. That same year, Ellis High School seniors published The Prairie Thistle yearbook.

In this annual, students documented college prep, domestic science and art, agriculture, normal training, manual training, and commerce course work. The local paper mentioned the Kansas State School Superintendent and High School Inspector approved these classes and ranked Ellis High School in the First Class.

This acknowledgement benefitted graduates. Those who successfully completed the College Prep course were admitted as university freshmen without having to take the entrance examination. Those completing Normal School courses received a high school diploma and a two-year State Teacher’s Certificate. In addition to aiding individuals, the school received an apportionment of $1,000 for maintaining courses in Home Economics, Agriculture, and Normal Training. This amount equals approximately $31,356 in today’s economy.

In addition to previously mentioned classes, students could enroll in typewriting and commercial arithmetic. The forward-thinking board, placing music on par with regular studies, gave credit for outside work in music. The primary source stressed that work occurred under supervision of the school and competent instructors.

The 1915 Prairie Thistle also contained the seniors’ last will and testament, pictures and descriptions of seniors, sports photos, predictions, club news, a list of graduates, and alumni notes detailing what past graduates were doing in 1915. Historically significant, candid photos depict the last high school class to graduate from the stone school building.

Ellis-area railroad and agricultural pursuits continued to prosper. According to historian Eileen Langley, in 1916, the district built a brick building north of the stone school, establishing the older site as the grade school with the new brick construction designated as the high school.

Ellis may have been far from the WWI battlefields of Europe, but war burdens soon combined with those the Spanish influenza epidemic created to do more than fill hospital beds and cemetery plots. One of many 1918 cancellations included the alumni banquet, according to Maxine Bradbury.

Regaining momentum after WW I ended, regional communities, including Ellis, approved bond issues to build new high schools. Note dates on old school buildings to verify area-wide examples. Upon voter approval of a $100,000 bond, Ellis’s board chose a site across Big Creek on West Adams Street, now 11th Street. According to July 1926 Board Minutes, members met at the brick high school to determine necessary changes before moving the grade school into the recently constructed north building.

This 1926 meeting led to alterations in the Ellis skyline. Once the physical transfer of students and materials from the stone school to the brick one occurred, the board elected to raze the stone building. Although the school proud citizens dreamed and built now exists only in old photos, masons incorporated its locally quarried limestone into several homes and a church in the community.

Board minutes didn’t state the newer buildings helped maintain their budget, but they managed to educate Ellis students with an operating budget of $40, 070.55. This included salaries and operating expenditures.

History reminds us nothing is static. World-wide and local changes clearly affected Ellis education.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6046ee3c-c6c2-4d3a-adf3-98084fcf506b">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 8</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a410c8ea-2038-4aa9-bbac-4ba20e3dce59">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;7</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c4d25696-4e64-4f03-b53f-52322f5800a6">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;6</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1be1bca-b1ce-4748-b41f-f04fdecdd0c9">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;5</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/31162282-e1ad-4458-94c1-4efa3642155e">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 3</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4116f584-aca2-45ea-92ea-f4cb948ad1af">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;2</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/539bba70-e799-4512-9cf1-809101486476">Madroirn: The beginning of Ellis schools</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1915, Woodrow Wilson served as U.S. President. Typhoid Mary, working under a pseudonym, was sentenced to lifetime quarantine after infecting an additional 25 people while she cooked for a New York hospital. Dwight D. Eisenhower graduated from West Point with a 2nd Lt. commission. That same year, Ellis High School seniors published The Prairie Thistle yearbook.In this annual, students documented college prep, domestic science and art, agriculture, normal training, manual training, and commerce course work. The local paper mentioned the Kansas State School Superintendent and High School Inspector approved these classes and ranked Ellis High School in the First Class.This acknowledgement benefitted graduates. Those who successfully completed the College Prep course were admitted as university freshmen without having to take the entrance examination. Those completing Normal School courses received a high school diploma and a two-year State Teacher’s Certificate. In addition to aiding individuals, the school received an apportionment of $1,000 for maintaining courses in Home Economics, Agriculture, and Normal Training. This amount equals approximately $31,356 in today’s economy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704497107140.jpeg" alt="Ellis School ca 1911-ish. Courtesy Paul Kraus" />
 <figcaption>Ellis School ca 1911-ish. Courtesy Paul Kraus</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to previously mentioned classes, students could enroll in typewriting and commercial arithmetic. The forward-thinking board, placing music on par with regular studies, gave credit for outside work in music. The primary source stressed that work occurred under supervision of the school and competent instructors.The 1915 Prairie Thistle also contained the seniors’ last will and testament, pictures and descriptions of seniors, sports photos, predictions, club news, a list of graduates, and alumni notes detailing what past graduates were doing in 1915. Historically significant, candid photos depict the last high school class to graduate from the stone school building.Ellis-area railroad and agricultural pursuits continued to prosper. According to historian Eileen Langley, in 1916, the district built a brick building north of the stone school, establishing the older site as the grade school with the new brick construction designated as the high school.Ellis may have been far from the WWI battlefields of Europe, but war burdens soon combined with those the Spanish influenza epidemic created to do more than fill hospital beds and cemetery plots. One of many 1918 cancellations included the alumni banquet, according to Maxine Bradbury.Regaining momentum after WW I ended, regional communities, including Ellis, approved bond issues to build new high schools. Note dates on old school buildings to verify area-wide examples. Upon voter approval of a $100,000 bond, Ellis’s board chose a site across Big Creek on West Adams Street, now 11th Street. According to July 1926 Board Minutes, members met at the brick high school to determine necessary changes before moving the grade school into the recently constructed north building.This 1926 meeting led to alterations in the Ellis skyline. Once the physical transfer of students and materials from the stone school to the brick one occurred, the board elected to raze the stone building. Although the school proud citizens dreamed and built now exists only in old photos, masons incorporated its locally quarried limestone into several homes and a church in the community.Board minutes didn’t state the newer buildings helped maintain their budget, but they managed to educate Ellis students with an operating budget of $40, 070.55. This included salaries and operating expenditures.History reminds us nothing is static. World-wide and local changes clearly affected Ellis education.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6046ee3c-c6c2-4d3a-adf3-98084fcf506b">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 8</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a410c8ea-2038-4aa9-bbac-4ba20e3dce59">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;7</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c4d25696-4e64-4f03-b53f-52322f5800a6">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;6</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1be1bca-b1ce-4748-b41f-f04fdecdd0c9">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;5</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/31162282-e1ad-4458-94c1-4efa3642155e">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 3</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4116f584-aca2-45ea-92ea-f4cb948ad1af">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;2</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/539bba70-e799-4512-9cf1-809101486476">Madroirn: The beginning of Ellis schools</a>

MADORIN: History of Ellis Schools Part 11: 1915 -1926

By Karissa Winkel Cottonwood Extension District

Asking this question can reduce the risk of cancer for the whole family:

Radon is a radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil. Outdoors, radon levels are low because they are diluted. However, in our homes, radon levels can build up and increase our risk of developing lung cancer. Radon enters our homes from the soil through cracks in concrete floors and walls, floor drains, sump pits, etc. If the concentration of radon is increased, your family may be at risk.

The Surgeon General warns that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, and it is the #1 cause of lung cancer in Kansas for nonsmokers. When you breathe in radon, it gets trapped in your lung tissue and gives off radiation that damages cells. Over time, this compound effect can cause lung cancer.

Homes with high radon levels have been found in every state, and radon levels can vary greatly in each home. In fact, your neighbor’s level can be very different from your own home’s level. According to the KDHE Kansas radon map, the average radon level is at least 4.6 pCi/ L which leads to 1 in 4 Kansas homes having high radon levels. Barton and Ellis Counties are both in the red with averages of 4.0 pCi/L or more.

The good news is that testing your home for radon is simple and affordable. Short-term radon kits are available in both the Hays and Great Bend extension offices for $7.50 or you can order online from Kansas State University at:<a href="https://sosradon.org/purchase-kits"> https://sosradon.org/purchase-kits</a>

The cost of a kit is a small price to pay for the peace of mind to ensure your home has safe radon levels. Get your kit in Hays at 601 Main St. or in Great Bend at 3007 10th St.

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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Karissa Winkel Cottonwood Extension DistrictAsking this question can reduce the risk of cancer for the whole family:“Have I tested our home for radon?”Radon is a radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil. Outdoors, radon levels are low because they are diluted. However, in our homes, radon levels can build up and increase our risk of developing lung cancer. Radon enters our homes from the soil through cracks in concrete floors and walls, floor drains, sump pits, etc. If the concentration of radon is increased, your family may be at risk.The Surgeon General warns that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, and it is the #1 cause of lung cancer in Kansas for nonsmokers. When you breathe in radon, it gets trapped in your lung tissue and gives off radiation that damages cells. Over time, this compound effect can cause lung cancer.Homes with high radon levels have been found in every state, and radon levels can vary greatly in each home. In fact, your neighbor’s level can be very different from your own home’s level. According to the KDHE Kansas radon map, the average radon level is at least 4.6 pCi/ L which leads to 1 in 4 Kansas homes having high radon levels. Barton and Ellis Counties are both in the red with averages of 4.0 pCi/L or more.The good news is that testing your home for radon is simple and affordable. Short-term radon kits are available in both the Hays and Great Bend extension offices for $7.50 or you can order online from Kansas State University at:<a href="https://sosradon.org/purchase-kits"> https://sosradon.org/purchase-kits</a>The cost of a kit is a small price to pay for the peace of mind to ensure your home has safe radon levels. Get your kit in Hays at 601 Main St. or in Great Bend at 3007 10th St.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.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Kansas Radon Action Month

By Monique Koerner Cottonwood Extension District

Happy 2024! Rolling over the calendar is always exciting to me. I love a fresh, new year for new ideas, new planning, and new things to try. Do you make New Year’s Resolutions? I have planned resolutions as long as I can remember. Many people make commitments to be healthier, but then by February those commitments fall by the wayside when “life happens!” What are some things you can do to keep from losing your focus? Here are some tips:

Choosing too many goals can be overwhelming which can cause us to throw our hands up and quit. Pick one to two things you’d like to focus on and go full in.

What’s the old saying? “When you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Research what you want to do, how long will it take, what support or information do you need to reach your goal?

Write goals that are specific rather than vague. Something like “exercise more” or “eat more veggies” can be too vague to really measure, instead be more detailed. A more specific resolution would be, I will walk 20 minutes 3 times a week. An example of a specific nutrition goal would be “I will eat a serving of fruit with breakfast and a serving of vegetables with lunch and dinner.” Both of those are measurable goals you can check off your list and will give you a dopamine boost that will leave you feeling accomplished.

Don’t choose the same goal you have in the past and failed at. This sets you up for the same pitfalls that caused you to be derailed in the past. If you still want to work on the same goal as last year then re-word it, making it more specific.

Lean on the people around you to help you stay focused. Whether its co-workers, spouses, or friends, we need those around us to support us and motivate us. Share your goals with those around you.

It takes approximately 2 months to form a new habit. If life gets in the way, get back up, dust yourself off and start again. Resolutions don’t have to be all or nothing. Be forgiving to yourself. Life happens and one of the things we have to learn in order to accomplish hard things is the ability to do a little self-reflection about what went wrong and how do we fix it? You can also try tacking a new goal onto something you already do to help it become a habit. For example, during a morning or night routine try putting the new goal in during those already established routines.

My 2024 goal in the Cottonwood District is to focus on giving everyone in our community an opportunity to be active. The benefits to physical and mental health are numerous with even small amounts of activity. No matter how sedentary you have been, we have classes that will help you become more active. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy will begin on January 16, 2024. Walk Kansas will begin in March for people to form teams and stay active. Walk with Ease, is an Arthritis Foundation program, and is aimed at helping people stay active with chronic disease. All the classes are laid back, easy to access, and you can start where you are at. Come join us, you will not be disappointed. These classes are well researched to provide numerous benefits. If you have any questions, please get ahold of me! I look forward to meeting you in 2024!

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 DistrictHappy 2024! Rolling over the calendar is always exciting to me. I love a fresh, new year for new ideas, new planning, and new things to try. Do you make New Year’s Resolutions? I have planned resolutions as long as I can remember. Many people make commitments to be healthier, but then by February those commitments fall by the wayside when “life happens!” What are some things you can do to keep from losing your focus? Here are some tips:<h2>1. Be Picky</h2>Choosing too many goals can be overwhelming which can cause us to throw our hands up and quit. Pick one to two things you’d like to focus on and go full in.<h2>2. Plan</h2>What’s the old saying? “When you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Research what you want to do, how long will it take, what support or information do you need to reach your goal?<h2>3. Specific goals</h2>Write goals that are specific rather than vague. Something like “exercise more” or “eat more veggies” can be too vague to really measure, instead be more detailed. A more specific resolution would be, I will walk 20 minutes 3 times a week. An example of a specific nutrition goal would be “I will eat a serving of fruit with breakfast and a serving of vegetables with lunch and dinner.” Both of those are measurable goals you can check off your list and will give you a dopamine boost that will leave you feeling accomplished.<h2>4. Choose Something New</h2>Don’t choose the same goal you have in the past and failed at. This sets you up for the same pitfalls that caused you to be derailed in the past. If you still want to work on the same goal as last year then re-word it, making it more specific.<h2>5. Accountability Partners</h2>Lean on the people around you to help you stay focused. Whether its co-workers, spouses, or friends, we need those around us to support us and motivate us. Share your goals with those around you.<h2>6. Time to Become a Habit</h2>It takes approximately 2 months to form a new habit. If life gets in the way, get back up, dust yourself off and start again. Resolutions don’t have to be all or nothing. Be forgiving to yourself. Life happens and one of the things we have to learn in order to accomplish hard things is the ability to do a little self-reflection about what went wrong and how do we fix it? You can also try tacking a new goal onto something you already do to help it become a habit. For example, during a morning or night routine try putting the new goal in during those already established routines.My 2024 goal in the Cottonwood District is to focus on giving everyone in our community an opportunity to be active. The benefits to physical and mental health are numerous with even small amounts of activity. No matter how sedentary you have been, we have classes that will help you become more active. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy will begin on January 16, 2024. Walk Kansas will begin in March for people to form teams and stay active. Walk with Ease, is an Arthritis Foundation program, and is aimed at helping people stay active with chronic disease. All the classes are laid back, easy to access, and you can start where you are at. Come join us, you will not be disappointed. These classes are well researched to provide numerous benefits. If you have any questions, please get ahold of me! I look forward to meeting you in 2024!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: New Year, New Resolutions! 

By Michelle Beran Cottonwood Extension District

We are only one week into the new year and it’s already a whirlwind of activity!

We started off with a training for our 4-H2O Ambassadors and an activity at the Hays Public Library. The 4-H2O Ambassadors are a group of youth across Barton and Ellis County with an interest in learning about water management, water conservation, and related water issues. They learn about these areas and to facilitate activities for public events. The ambassadors will meet again on January 20 at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center for their second training. We have five returning ambassadors and five new ones for 2024. I so appreciate watching their confidence and presentation skills grow throughout the year.

Next week begins one of my favorite partnerships with USD 428 in Great Bend Reads! I will have the opportunity to share a lesson related to their current book, “The Wild Robot” and a little about 4-H! It does make for a couple of crazy weeks but I very much appreciate the interaction with students, teachers, and staff.

We are also in the final planning for 4-H Club Day which will be held on Sunday, February 4 at Ellinwood. 4-H Club Day is an opportunity for 4-H youth to present a demonstration or illustrated talk, a musical selection, practice their extemporaneous speaking, or work together as a club for a skit or model meeting. The public is invited to watch these young people compete and receive feedback from a judge.

Speaking of judges, we are already working at scheduling judges for the county fairs! I know it seems a long way off but July schedules fill up fast and we like to rotate through some of the best qualified judges available. If you have interest in serving as a judge for another county, please let me know and I’ll provide you with more information. We would love to have volunteers for fair superintendents and in many other roles also!

4-H members are already hard at work setting project goals, planning learning activities and events, and practicing their projects. If you know a 4-H member, ask them about their favorite project or one of their project goals for this year.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Michelle Beran Cottonwood Extension DistrictWe are only one week into the new year and it’s already a whirlwind of activity!We started off with a training for our 4-H2O Ambassadors and an activity at the Hays Public Library. The 4-H2O Ambassadors are a group of youth across Barton and Ellis County with an interest in learning about water management, water conservation, and related water issues. They learn about these areas and to facilitate activities for public events. The ambassadors will meet again on January 20 at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center for their second training. We have five returning ambassadors and five new ones for 2024. I so appreciate watching their confidence and presentation skills grow throughout the year.Next week begins one of my favorite partnerships with USD 428 in Great Bend Reads! I will have the opportunity to share a lesson related to their current book, “The Wild Robot” and a little about 4-H! It does make for a couple of crazy weeks but I very much appreciate the interaction with students, teachers, and staff.We are also in the final planning for 4-H Club Day which will be held on Sunday, February 4 at Ellinwood. 4-H Club Day is an opportunity for 4-H youth to present a demonstration or illustrated talk, a musical selection, practice their extemporaneous speaking, or work together as a club for a skit or model meeting. The public is invited to watch these young people compete and receive feedback from a judge.Speaking of judges, we are already working at scheduling judges for the county fairs! I know it seems a long way off but July schedules fill up fast and we like to rotate through some of the best qualified judges available. If you have interest in serving as a judge for another county, please let me know and I’ll provide you with more information. We would love to have volunteers for fair superintendents and in many other roles also!4-H members are already hard at work setting project goals, planning learning activities and events, and practicing their projects. If you know a 4-H member, ask them about their favorite project or one of their project goals for this year.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: New Year activities

A couple important occurrences helped shape the history of Inman, Kansas, one an historical fact and the other a legend. The fact is that the Santa Fe Trail passed just a few miles outside of town on its way through Kansas, and the legend is that of the mythical wetlands creature affectionately known far and wide as Sink Hole Sam. The story of Sam has been told and retold many times, but the coming of a new year seems an appropriate time to retell it yet again.

Once upon a time near a small town called Inman, in the land of Kansas, a legend was born; a legend that nearly 70 years ago would bring this sleepy little town notoriety for a season. The legend became that of Sink Hole Sam. Prior to the 1920’s, a string of small freshwater lakes stretched across part of central Kansas, coming within a couple miles of the town of Inman. It’s widely known that back then people from all around the state came here to fish and hunt ducks in those lakes. Eventually the lakes were drained, leaving Lake Inman and a few low pockets of water that became known as “sinkholes.” Inman Lake remains as the largest natural lake in the state of Kansas. The largest of the sinkholes became known locally as” the Big Sinkhole,” and here a legend was born in the form of a large serpent-like creature that became Sink Hole Sam. People speculated that Sam had been living in some prehistoric underground cavern that had somehow filled with water from the sinkhole, allowing him to finally venture forth. Or maybe Sam had lived there in some of the lakes all along, and now with them drained had nowhere else to go. Evidently no one got close enough to see if the creature should be named Sam or Samantha, but I’ll stay true to the legend and call it “Sam.” Two unidentified Inman men fishing at the sinkhole first reported seeing Sam, and soon after, local “Inmanites” Albert Neufeld and George Regehr spotted him also. The story goes that Albert sought to save the town by taking pot shots at poor Sam from a nearby bridge (I suspect the bridge was not really all that nearby!) Of course, descriptions of the beast varied according to the audience and to the time of day, but Sam ended up being a very large snake-like creature, about fifteen feet long and the diameter of an automobile tire.

Now everyone likes a good legend, and the discovery of Sam was no exception. The story spread like hot peanut butter! Newspapers caught wind of the tale, (no pun intended) and locals started getting calls from strangers all across the country. Today, some residents still recall seeing hundreds of cars parked around the big sinkhole hoping “Sammy” would make a curtain call.

In an attempt to quell speculation about their new prehistoric mascot, (here the legend takes a slight southern detour) some “great scientific minds” were brought on board in the persons of Ernest Dewey and his assistant Dr. Erasmus P. Quattlebaum. Earnest D. and the Dr. informed Inman that Sam was a “Foopengerkle,” one of a species thought to be the “extinctest” creatures ever to inhabit the Kansas Plains. This must be where he became Sam rather than Samantha, because Ernest D. and Dr. Q. maintained that no female “Foopengerkles” ever existed. Their final report urged caution, since Sam did not seem to realize he was extinct. Sam soon disappeared from sight, never to be seen or at least acknowledged publicly again.

Perhaps Sam still comes out at night to prowl the waters of the Big Sinkhole, frolicking and doing whatever else it is Foopengerkles do. Tromping through the wetlands there

I’ve heard strange sounds I always figured were muskrats or beavers rummaging around through the cattails, but maybe it was really Sammy out for a stretch and a snack! Each time I’m there and I get that feeling that someone or something is watching me, I peer optimistically over my shoulder, hoping to catch a glimpse of the big lug. But now with the wetlands and the sinkholes nearly dry again, ole’ Sam has probably for sure retired to his cavern until he has water enough to swim once more.

Millions of dollars have been spent attempting to prove or disprove the existence of Bigfoot and The Loch Ness Monster, and as far as I know, all such attempts have failed at both. Sink Hole Sam put Inman on the map and in the news those many years ago, and no one has yet disproven his existence to me. Like I said, everyone likes a good legend; after all this is America, and stranger things have happened! …Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A couple important occurrences helped shape the history of Inman, Kansas, one an historical fact and the other a legend. The fact is that the Santa Fe Trail passed just a few miles outside of town on its way through Kansas, and the legend is that of the mythical wetlands creature affectionately known far and wide as Sink Hole Sam. The story of Sam has been told and retold many times, but the coming of a new year seems an appropriate time to retell it yet again.Once upon a time near a small town called Inman, in the land of Kansas, a legend was born; a legend that nearly 70 years ago would bring this sleepy little town notoriety for a season. The legend became that of Sink Hole Sam. Prior to the 1920’s, a string of small freshwater lakes stretched across part of central Kansas, coming within a couple miles of the town of Inman. It’s widely known that back then people from all around the state came here to fish and hunt ducks in those lakes. Eventually the lakes were drained, leaving Lake Inman and a few low pockets of water that became known as “sinkholes.” Inman Lake remains as the largest natural lake in the state of Kansas. The largest of the sinkholes became known locally as” the Big Sinkhole,” and here a legend was born in the form of a large serpent-like creature that became Sink Hole Sam. People speculated that Sam had been living in some prehistoric underground cavern that had somehow filled with water from the sinkhole, allowing him to finally venture forth. Or maybe Sam had lived there in some of the lakes all along, and now with them drained had nowhere else to go. Evidently no one got close enough to see if the creature should be named Sam or Samantha, but I’ll stay true to the legend and call it “Sam.” Two unidentified Inman men fishing at the sinkhole first reported seeing Sam, and soon after, local “Inmanites” Albert Neufeld and George Regehr spotted him also. The story goes that Albert sought to save the town by taking pot shots at poor Sam from a nearby bridge (I suspect the bridge was not really all that nearby!) Of course, descriptions of the beast varied according to the audience and to the time of day, but Sam ended up being a very large snake-like creature, about fifteen feet long and the diameter of an automobile tire.Now everyone likes a good legend, and the discovery of Sam was no exception. The story spread like hot peanut butter! Newspapers caught wind of the tale, (no pun intended) and locals started getting calls from strangers all across the country. Today, some residents still recall seeing hundreds of cars parked around the big sinkhole hoping “Sammy” would make a curtain call.In an attempt to quell speculation about their new prehistoric mascot, (here the legend takes a slight southern detour) some “great scientific minds” were brought on board in the persons of Ernest Dewey and his assistant Dr. Erasmus P. Quattlebaum. Earnest D. and the Dr. informed Inman that Sam was a “Foopengerkle,” one of a species thought to be the “extinctest” creatures ever to inhabit the Kansas Plains. This must be where he became Sam rather than Samantha, because Ernest D. and Dr. Q. maintained that no female “Foopengerkles” ever existed. Their final report urged caution, since Sam did not seem to realize he was extinct. Sam soon disappeared from sight, never to be seen or at least acknowledged publicly again.Perhaps Sam still comes out at night to prowl the waters of the Big Sinkhole, frolicking and doing whatever else it is Foopengerkles do. Tromping through the wetlands thereI’ve heard strange sounds I always figured were muskrats or beavers rummaging around through the cattails, but maybe it was really Sammy out for a stretch and a snack! Each time I’m there and I get that feeling that someone or something is watching me, I peer optimistically over my shoulder, hoping to catch a glimpse of the big lug. But now with the wetlands and the sinkholes nearly dry again, ole’ Sam has probably for sure retired to his cavern until he has water enough to swim once more.Millions of dollars have been spent attempting to prove or disprove the existence of Bigfoot and The Loch Ness Monster, and as far as I know, all such attempts have failed at both. Sink Hole Sam put Inman on the map and in the news those many years ago, and no one has yet disproven his existence to me. Like I said, everyone likes a good legend; after all this is America, and stranger things have happened! …Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: The Legend of Sink Hole Sam

By Michael A. Smith Insight Kansas

Here’s a New Year’s Resolution for the Kansas Legislature:&nbsp; no more wasting our time and money on election conspiracy theories.&nbsp; In September and October of 2023, Senator Mike Thompson and others hosted hearings featuring speakers peddling truly insane speculations.&nbsp; These included the contention–really–that Italy and the Vatican have infiltrated Kansas elections by manipulating military satellites.&nbsp; Other speakers were linked to QAnon, the deranged, violent, and deeply anti-Semitic conspiracy theory. Under questioning, these speakers admitted that they had no actual knowledge of how elections are conducted in Kansas.&nbsp; Many of the conspiracy theorists relied on the idea that Kansas election equipment is connected to the Internet, which is false and easily disproved.&nbsp;Slate&nbsp;dubbed this, “The Election Denialist Roadshow.” &nbsp; Some Republicans actually believe this nonsense, while others know better but play along for fear of getting primaried.

Satellites, “ballot harvesting,” and George Soros are not legitimate concerns, but there are a few things that would improve Kansas elections.&nbsp; A serious election security bill would begin by properly updating the registration rolls.&nbsp; While there is no evidence of ballots being cast in the name of dead people here, and it is extremely rare elsewhere in the U.S., good recordkeeping still calls for the rolls to be current.&nbsp; Voters rarely notify election authorities that they have moved or that a loved one has passed away.&nbsp; New death certificates along with change-of-address filings at the Post Office can be quite helpful here.&nbsp; A nonpartisan, multi-state system called ERIC shares this data across state lines. ERIC has also been targeted by conspiracy theorists, but this should not affect policymaking.

Additional challenges include signature matches, now the usual way to validate ballots.&nbsp; Many signatures are now taken on a digital pad rather than with a pen and paper, and many people make only a squiggly line on those rather than actually signing.&nbsp; In addition to setting standards for signatures, the bill should also require all digital voting machines to print a piece of paper for each ballot.&nbsp; These can be inspected by the voter before being cast in the ballot box, and also used for both machine and hand recounts, when necessary.&nbsp; Even more crucial are better pay and training for poll workers.&nbsp; In today’s toxic political environment, providing for the security of election workers is also vital–some have received death threats.

On the other hand, certain so-called “election security” measures are really just sleazy political tactics.&nbsp; First and foremost is voter “caging,” targeting certain voters (usually people of color living in urban areas) and sending them postcards that must be completed and returned or the voter is removed from the rolls.&nbsp; With most of us overwhelmed with junk mail, these often get tossed out by mistake.&nbsp; The tactic is a blatant attempt to target certain voters and remove them from the rolls.&nbsp; A good election security bill would include a strong, enforceable ban on caging.

A good bill would also ban the de-registration of any voter based on name duplicates alone.&nbsp; These do not target actual fraud but rather people who are likely to have similar names.&nbsp; African-American, Latinx, and Asian-American voters are more likely to have similar names than are white non-Hispanic voters, and the tactic is another blatant attempt to de-register targeted groups of people.

Kansas elections could indeed be better, but deranged conspiracy theories and legislative sideshows are not the answer.&nbsp; Actual election experts have a number of thoughtful ideas that would make a welcome alternative to the noise and the nonsense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Michael A. Smith Insight KansasHere’s a New Year’s Resolution for the Kansas Legislature:&nbsp; no more wasting our time and money on election conspiracy theories.&nbsp; In September and October of 2023, Senator Mike Thompson and others hosted hearings featuring speakers peddling truly insane speculations.&nbsp; These included the contention–really–that Italy and the Vatican have infiltrated Kansas elections by manipulating military satellites.&nbsp; Other speakers were linked to QAnon, the deranged, violent, and deeply anti-Semitic conspiracy theory. Under questioning, these speakers admitted that they had no actual knowledge of how elections are conducted in Kansas.&nbsp; Many of the conspiracy theorists relied on the idea that Kansas election equipment is connected to the Internet, which is false and easily disproved.&nbsp;Slate&nbsp;dubbed this, “The Election Denialist Roadshow.” &nbsp; Some Republicans actually believe this nonsense, while others know better but play along for fear of getting primaried.Satellites, “ballot harvesting,” and George Soros are not legitimate concerns, but there are a few things that would improve Kansas elections.&nbsp; A serious election security bill would begin by properly updating the registration rolls.&nbsp; While there is no evidence of ballots being cast in the name of dead people here, and it is extremely rare elsewhere in the U.S., good recordkeeping still calls for the rolls to be current.&nbsp; Voters rarely notify election authorities that they have moved or that a loved one has passed away.&nbsp; New death certificates along with change-of-address filings at the Post Office can be quite helpful here.&nbsp; A nonpartisan, multi-state system called ERIC shares this data across state lines. ERIC has also been targeted by conspiracy theorists, but this should not affect policymaking.Additional challenges include signature matches, now the usual way to validate ballots.&nbsp; Many signatures are now taken on a digital pad rather than with a pen and paper, and many people make only a squiggly line on those rather than actually signing.&nbsp; In addition to setting standards for signatures, the bill should also require all digital voting machines to print a piece of paper for each ballot.&nbsp; These can be inspected by the voter before being cast in the ballot box, and also used for both machine and hand recounts, when necessary.&nbsp; Even more crucial are better pay and training for poll workers.&nbsp; In today’s toxic political environment, providing for the security of election workers is also vital–some have received death threats.On the other hand, certain so-called “election security” measures are really just sleazy political tactics.&nbsp; First and foremost is voter “caging,” targeting certain voters (usually people of color living in urban areas) and sending them postcards that must be completed and returned or the voter is removed from the rolls.&nbsp; With most of us overwhelmed with junk mail, these often get tossed out by mistake.&nbsp; The tactic is a blatant attempt to target certain voters and remove them from the rolls.&nbsp; A good election security bill would include a strong, enforceable ban on caging.A good bill would also ban the de-registration of any voter based on name duplicates alone.&nbsp; These do not target actual fraud but rather people who are likely to have similar names.&nbsp; African-American, Latinx, and Asian-American voters are more likely to have similar names than are white non-Hispanic voters, and the tactic is another blatant attempt to de-register targeted groups of people.Kansas elections could indeed be better, but deranged conspiracy theories and legislative sideshows are not the answer.&nbsp; Actual election experts have a number of thoughtful ideas that would make a welcome alternative to the noise and the nonsense.

INSIGHT KANSAS: How to Get Election Security Right

By Stacy Campbell Cottonwood Extension District

The Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station fertilizer reports include preliminary results of research conducted on fertilizer use and management practices for crops in Kansas. These studies are conducted across the state, varying from year to year. In this report, research was conducted in Barton, Brown, Clay, Dickinson, Ellis, Franklin, Gove, Jefferson, Jewell, Logan, McPherson, Mitchell, Reno, Republic, Riley, Saline, and Shawnee counties. The research reports included in the 2023 issue are listed below.

· Nitrogen and Phosphorus Rates’ Impact on Different Varieties of Alfalfa in Central Kansas

· Assessing the Impact of the 4R Nutrient Management on Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Corn

· Evaluating the Impact of Long-Term Phosphorus Placement on Corn and Soybean Rotation under Minimum Tillage System

· Could the Use of Nitrification Inhibitor Optimize the Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Corn Production?

· Corn and Soybean Yield as Affected by Cover Crop and Phosphorus Fertilizer Management

· Evaluation of Plant Tissue Analysis to Assess Phosphorus Nutritional Status for Corn and Soybean

· Chloride Fertilization’s Impacts on Kansas Winter Wheat Grain Yield During 2021-2022

· Field Evaluations of Nitrogen-Fixing Products in Grain Sorghum

· Assessing Corn Response to Cover Crops and Nitrogen Fertilization in a No-Till, Three-Year Rotation in Northeast Kansas

· 2022 Fertilizer Station Weather Report To access the Fertilizer Research Report for 2023, https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol9/iss8/

Cover Your Acres Winter Conference – Jan. 17 &amp; 18

The January 10th early bird registration is quickly approaching for Cover Your Acres (CYA) in Oberlin, KS. It is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region. The same programs will be offered both days of the conference. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 5:00 p.m. To register or see the conference details go to www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres For question call 785-462-6281.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Stacy Campbell Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station fertilizer reports include preliminary results of research conducted on fertilizer use and management practices for crops in Kansas. These studies are conducted across the state, varying from year to year. In this report, research was conducted in Barton, Brown, Clay, Dickinson, Ellis, Franklin, Gove, Jefferson, Jewell, Logan, McPherson, Mitchell, Reno, Republic, Riley, Saline, and Shawnee counties. The research reports included in the 2023 issue are listed below.· Nitrogen and Phosphorus Rates’ Impact on Different Varieties of Alfalfa in Central Kansas· Assessing the Impact of the 4R Nutrient Management on Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Corn· Evaluating the Impact of Long-Term Phosphorus Placement on Corn and Soybean Rotation under Minimum Tillage System· Could the Use of Nitrification Inhibitor Optimize the Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Corn Production?· Corn and Soybean Yield as Affected by Cover Crop and Phosphorus Fertilizer Management· Evaluation of Plant Tissue Analysis to Assess Phosphorus Nutritional Status for Corn and Soybean· Chloride Fertilization’s Impacts on Kansas Winter Wheat Grain Yield During 2021-2022· Field Evaluations of Nitrogen-Fixing Products in Grain Sorghum· Assessing Corn Response to Cover Crops and Nitrogen Fertilization in a No-Till, Three-Year Rotation in Northeast Kansas· 2022 Fertilizer Station Weather Report To access the Fertilizer Research Report for 2023, https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol9/iss8/Cover Your Acres Winter Conference – Jan. 17 &amp; 18The January 10th early bird registration is quickly approaching for Cover Your Acres (CYA) in Oberlin, KS. It is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region. The same programs will be offered both days of the conference. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 5:00 p.m. To register or see the conference details go to www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres For question call 785-462-6281.

Campbell: K-State Fertilizer Research Report available online

Something I recently read discussed how too much information paralyzes humans’ ability to act. The essay focused on vast details, general and specific, available on the internet to most Americans. The author confirmed something I’d guessed--a click of a button immediately delivers copious feedback that overwhelms readers. Ironically, that same info often needs a rewrite after the source investigates further. Nothing like a trip to the market and the return home to find out you don’t have the right product.

Personally, I’m most overwhelmed by product choices at the grocery store. In days of yore, shopping rarely resulted in fried brains—an untrue statement these days. Check out the pharmaceutical aisle. Plan extra time to read packaging small print to determine exactly what you’re buying. I needed eye drops. This turned into multiple-choice exam that involved more than the expected three potential answers. I read through ingredient lists of at least six different companies to determine what I needed. The pain-killer section compounded the headache building behind my eyes.

One side of the aisle in this section contains a minimum of four to five shelves stacked higher than my nearly six-foot frame, all filled with medications designed to address human pain. You can select aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or something else. Be sure to read every detail because some interact with this or cause that. Others have protective coatings to prevent stomach and intestinal issues. In our house, this gets complicated because each of our bodies handles the same product differently. To make matters more difficult, you have to know what delivery system you want for pain relief: fast or slow-release tablets, capsules, syrup, suppositories, or analgesic cream? To complicate matters, you can buy various patches to apply to specific body parts for direct delivery to said site.

If the pharmaceutical aisle hasn’t exhausted your brain, truck over to the dairy aisle. Just the milk section demands a dozen fast decisions. What kind of container do you prefer—plastic or a wax-coated paper product? Do you want pints, quarts, half gallons, or gallons of moo juice? Do you want whole milk or 1 or 2 percent? To complicate matters, options include almond, coconut, or oat milks.

Same aisle, different case: selecting butter demands intense focus. Generic or brand name? Local or delivered from Ireland with a giant carbon foot print? Flavored or regular? Salted or unsalted? In ¼ pound cubes or pound size rectangles? In specialty stores, you’ll find pound-size balls of Amish butter wrapped in wax paper. What started as a quick trip to the market ends up taking forever as you weigh options and calculate expense.

Due to info overload, quick trips to the market don’t exist. For that matter, don’t count on a quick trip to the Quick Trip. Even in stores intended to collect money fast, you have to choose from among several similar products.

As much as I love headache-free cooking with interesting ingredients, this overload leaves me nostalgic for old-time neighborhood markets that offered one choice of everything. All you had to decide was how much you could afford.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Something I recently read discussed how too much information paralyzes humans’ ability to act. The essay focused on vast details, general and specific, available on the internet to most Americans. The author confirmed something I’d guessed--a click of a button immediately delivers copious feedback that overwhelms readers. Ironically, that same info often needs a rewrite after the source investigates further. Nothing like a trip to the market and the return home to find out you don’t have the right product.Personally, I’m most overwhelmed by product choices at the grocery store. In days of yore, shopping rarely resulted in fried brains—an untrue statement these days. Check out the pharmaceutical aisle. Plan extra time to read packaging small print to determine exactly what you’re buying. I needed eye drops. This turned into multiple-choice exam that involved more than the expected three potential answers. I read through ingredient lists of at least six different companies to determine what I needed. The pain-killer section compounded the headache building behind my eyes.One side of the aisle in this section contains a minimum of four to five shelves stacked higher than my nearly six-foot frame, all filled with medications designed to address human pain. You can select aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or something else. Be sure to read every detail because some interact with this or cause that. Others have protective coatings to prevent stomach and intestinal issues. In our house, this gets complicated because each of our bodies handles the same product differently. To make matters more difficult, you have to know what delivery system you want for pain relief: fast or slow-release tablets, capsules, syrup, suppositories, or analgesic cream? To complicate matters, you can buy various patches to apply to specific body parts for direct delivery to said site.If the pharmaceutical aisle hasn’t exhausted your brain, truck over to the dairy aisle. Just the milk section demands a dozen fast decisions. What kind of container do you prefer—plastic or a wax-coated paper product? Do you want pints, quarts, half gallons, or gallons of moo juice? Do you want whole milk or 1 or 2 percent? To complicate matters, options include almond, coconut, or oat milks.Same aisle, different case: selecting butter demands intense focus. Generic or brand name? Local or delivered from Ireland with a giant carbon foot print? Flavored or regular? Salted or unsalted? In ¼ pound cubes or pound size rectangles? In specialty stores, you’ll find pound-size balls of Amish butter wrapped in wax paper. What started as a quick trip to the market ends up taking forever as you weigh options and calculate expense.Due to info overload, quick trips to the market don’t exist. For that matter, don’t count on a quick trip to the Quick Trip. Even in stores intended to collect money fast, you have to choose from among several similar products.As much as I love headache-free cooking with interesting ingredients, this overload leaves me nostalgic for old-time neighborhood markets that offered one choice of everything. All you had to decide was how much you could afford.

MADORIN: Too Many Choices

This January will kick off K-State Extension’s Living Well Wednesday Series on January 10th from 12:10 to 1 pm. Family and Community Wellness Extension agents and specialists facilitate these educational webinars, and this series will focus on women's health.

The January 10th session is titled, ‘Sleep is a Superpower’ because a lot happens while you are sleeping. Inadequate sleep directly affects our relationships, life expectancy, libido, cardiovascular health, immune system, and it contributes to weight gain. Learn how to leverage this superpower for better health during the webinar. Michelle Lane, the Senior Director of Community Wellness and Corporate Health at North Kansas City Hospital, will be presenting on this topic.

On February 14th, we will learn about Women’s Health and Functional Medicine. Women often take care of everyone else before prioritizing their own health. This leads to sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, gut issues, and increased stress which in turn can cause a compromised immune system and other health issues. During this webinar, we’ll look at common root causes of illness in women including the impact that trauma and ACE’s have on well-being. Join us for this informative webinar presented by Joleen Zivnuska, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in Wichita, KS.

The last session on March 13th, we will talk about Navigating Diets, Supplements, and Women’s Health. With so much information on health, it’s hard to know what is true. This session will cover keys to a healthy and balanced diet, discuss how/when to use supplements, and explore wellness tips for women. Learn if medications that facilitate weight loss work for long-term wellness during this informative webinar. Join us and bring your questions as Priscilla

Brenes, State Extension Specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics, and Health shares her expertise.

Each webinar is the on the second Wednesday of the month from 12:10 to 1pm. All Living Well Wednesday webinars are recorded and posted on the K-State Extension Wellness Wednesday Website, but make sure to register online to attend live or to receive a link to the recording and information. https://bit.ly/47WAPoN

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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>This January will kick off K-State Extension’s Living Well Wednesday Series on January 10th from 12:10 to 1 pm. Family and Community Wellness Extension agents and specialists facilitate these educational webinars, and this series will focus on women's health.The January 10th session is titled, ‘Sleep is a Superpower’ because a lot happens while you are sleeping. Inadequate sleep directly affects our relationships, life expectancy, libido, cardiovascular health, immune system, and it contributes to weight gain. Learn how to leverage this superpower for better health during the webinar. Michelle Lane, the Senior Director of Community Wellness and Corporate Health at North Kansas City Hospital, will be presenting on this topic.On February 14th, we will learn about Women’s Health and Functional Medicine. Women often take care of everyone else before prioritizing their own health. This leads to sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, gut issues, and increased stress which in turn can cause a compromised immune system and other health issues. During this webinar, we’ll look at common root causes of illness in women including the impact that trauma and ACE’s have on well-being. Join us for this informative webinar presented by Joleen Zivnuska, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in Wichita, KS.The last session on March 13th, we will talk about Navigating Diets, Supplements, and Women’s Health. With so much information on health, it’s hard to know what is true. This session will cover keys to a healthy and balanced diet, discuss how/when to use supplements, and explore wellness tips for women. Learn if medications that facilitate weight loss work for long-term wellness during this informative webinar. Join us and bring your questions as PriscillaBrenes, State Extension Specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics, and Health shares her expertise.Each webinar is the on the second Wednesday of the month from 12:10 to 1pm. All Living Well Wednesday webinars are recorded and posted on the K-State Extension Wellness Wednesday Website, but make sure to register online to attend live or to receive a link to the recording and information. https://bit.ly/47WAPoNKarissa 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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Women's Health, Living Well Wednesday Series

As 2023 comes to a close Kansans are celebrating the end of another year and looking forward to a new beginning in 2024.

Come January 8th, the state legislature will assemble to embark on its new agenda for the year.

Already, numerous bills and resolutions have been pre-filed for the upcoming session, providing us with a preliminary but incomplete insight into the legislative agenda.

In the House, the chamber will hear pre-filed bills on changing the start of the K-12 school year, amending the definition of “healthcare provider”, allowing direct vehicle sales from manufacturers (such as Tesla), and a proposition to amend Article 9 of the Kansas Constitution concerning counties’ home rule, just to name a few. A full list can be found on the state legislature’s website.

In the Senate, the pre-filed bills were all filed by Senator Holland and focus mostly on fiscal intricacies such as reconfiguring or discontinuing various tax credits. Though one of the bills would prohibit state legislators from accepting any state employment and the lieutenant governor from employment as the head of a state agency.

However, there are many other issues we should expect the legislature to address this session. As always, there will be a big push for Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization. There inevitably will be some “culture war” bills to restrict access to abortion care and further marginalize gender and sexual minorities. And of course, we can expect lots of disagreement on education funding — both K-12 and higher ed.

Examining the pre-filed bills and the inescapable discussions of these high-profile issues, I find myself compelled to contemplate the fundamental question of the government's role — what it currently is and what it ought to be.

In 1966, political scientist Daniel Elazar wrote his seminal work American Federalism: A View From the States, which focused on state political culture in the United States.

According to Elazar’s framework, Kansas has a moralistic political culture. This means that Kansans view government as a means to better society and promote the general welfare.

States with a moralistic political culture generally advocate for an expanded government role. Such states are inclined to endorse the idea that the government should actively contribute to the public good by allocating resources towards programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate.

Moreover, these states perceive it as a responsibility of public officials to champion the development of new initiatives benefiting marginalized individuals or addressing public policy challenges, even in the absence of significant public demand for such actions.

Even as national polarization has changed the attitudes of Kansas’ Republican majority over the past decade, putting this tradition under tension, the state's moralistic political culture persists. Underscoring the widespread belief that government serves as a vehicle for societal improvement and the advancement of the common welfare.

As legislators embark on the upcoming session, they carry the responsibility of upholding the state’s moralistic tradition. Whether grappling with issues of healthcare, education funding, or constitutional amendments, the overarching theme should be a commitment to the betterment of society, including initiatives that contribute positively to the public good.

But as the year draws to a close and we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, citizens, just as much as legislators, are responsible for steering Kansas toward a future that reflects the collective vision of a state committed to the well-being of all its citizens.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Alexandra MiddlewoodAs 2023 comes to a close Kansans are celebrating the end of another year and looking forward to a new beginning in 2024.Come January 8th, the state legislature will assemble to embark on its new agenda for the year.Already, numerous bills and resolutions have been pre-filed for the upcoming session, providing us with a preliminary but incomplete insight into the legislative agenda.In the House, the chamber will hear pre-filed bills on changing the start of the K-12 school year, amending the definition of “healthcare provider”, allowing direct vehicle sales from manufacturers (such as Tesla), and a proposition to amend Article 9 of the Kansas Constitution concerning counties’ home rule, just to name a few. A full list can be found on the state legislature’s website.In the Senate, the pre-filed bills were all filed by Senator Holland and focus mostly on fiscal intricacies such as reconfiguring or discontinuing various tax credits. Though one of the bills would prohibit state legislators from accepting any state employment and the lieutenant governor from employment as the head of a state agency.However, there are many other issues we should expect the legislature to address this session. As always, there will be a big push for Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization. There inevitably will be some “culture war” bills to restrict access to abortion care and further marginalize gender and sexual minorities. And of course, we can expect lots of disagreement on education funding — both K-12 and higher ed.Examining the pre-filed bills and the inescapable discussions of these high-profile issues, I find myself compelled to contemplate the fundamental question of the government's role — what it currently is and what it ought to be.In 1966, political scientist Daniel Elazar wrote his seminal work American Federalism: A View From the States, which focused on state political culture in the United States.According to Elazar’s framework, Kansas has a moralistic political culture. This means that Kansans view government as a means to better society and promote the general welfare.States with a moralistic political culture generally advocate for an expanded government role. Such states are inclined to endorse the idea that the government should actively contribute to the public good by allocating resources towards programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate.Moreover, these states perceive it as a responsibility of public officials to champion the development of new initiatives benefiting marginalized individuals or addressing public policy challenges, even in the absence of significant public demand for such actions.Even as national polarization has changed the attitudes of Kansas’ Republican majority over the past decade, putting this tradition under tension, the state's moralistic political culture persists. Underscoring the widespread belief that government serves as a vehicle for societal improvement and the advancement of the common welfare.As legislators embark on the upcoming session, they carry the responsibility of upholding the state’s moralistic tradition. Whether grappling with issues of healthcare, education funding, or constitutional amendments, the overarching theme should be a commitment to the betterment of society, including initiatives that contribute positively to the public good.But as the year draws to a close and we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, citizens, just as much as legislators, are responsible for steering Kansas toward a future that reflects the collective vision of a state committed to the well-being of all its citizens.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The Heart of Kansas' Political Culture and 2024 Legislative Priorities

Well over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. The person who owns the land doesn’t farm it. As such, agricultural leases are very crucial to most producers. Additionally, many agricultural leases are oral agreements. There is no written and signed lease agreement, it’s word of mouth and a handshake. Roughly forty years ago about 90% of all ag leases were oral. It’s now a lower percentage of that, but there are still many oral leases. Kansas statutes recognize oral ag leases as legal and binding, BUT there are numerous stipulations that govern them.

All oral leases are annual leases that run from March 1 to March 1 and renew automatically unless they are properly terminated. For a lease to be properly terminated it must meet three requirements. First, the notice to terminate must be in writing. Furthermore, it must state that the termination date is March 1 and the notice must be in the tenant’s hands 30 days prior to March 1. Any attempt to terminate a lease that does not meet these three criteria is not legally binding and the lease continues for another year at the terms agreed upon for the previous year.

January is when many leases are renegotiated. It is important to get these negotiations wrapped up soon because if the tenant and landlord cannot agree on new terms, notice needs to be given 30 days prior to March 1st. Kansas statutes treat pasture or range land the same as crop land.

Written leases can state other dates and contain many other stipulations into use of the land. But with an oral lease, in the eyes of the law, the tenant has full control for the entire year of that land including hunting rights. Which are some of the reasons why Extension really encourages written leases!

There are some considerations and exceptions that I need to note. If wheat was already planted on the farmland at the time that proper notice of termination was given, the tenant still has the right to harvest that wheat. Cash rent will be paid as per the prior year’s lease or expenses and crop shared at the previously agreed upon terms. For those acres planted to wheat the lease ends when the crop is harvested. If a perennial forage crop such as alfalfa was planted last fall and a stand was established, then the landowner owes the tenant for all seed, fertilizer, etc., that was used to establish that perennial crop.

The other area that may cause some issues is in fields that will be planted to spring crops. Some of these fields may have already been fertilized this past fall after harvest. Some may even have had herbicides put on for early season weed control pre-plant. If the tenant has applied these inputs and then is terminated properly by the landlord, the landlord owes the tenant for the fertilizer and/or weed control in addition to standard application charges. For cash rent leases that would be the full amount of the inputs applied, for crop share leases it would be the share that the tenant has paid for.

Lastly to avoid terminating leases—communication is so vitally important for both parties to visit at least a few times a year. By doing this hopefully questions and concerns can be talked about and addressed before they become problems.

For further information on leasing agricultural land go to www.agmanager.info click onto the Farm Management tab. Also, you can contact your local County or District Extension Office. The Cottonwood Extension Offices, Hays 785-628-9430 and Great Bend 620-793-1910.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Well over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. The person who owns the land doesn’t farm it. As such, agricultural leases are very crucial to most producers. Additionally, many agricultural leases are oral agreements. There is no written and signed lease agreement, it’s word of mouth and a handshake. Roughly forty years ago about 90% of all ag leases were oral. It’s now a lower percentage of that, but there are still many oral leases. Kansas statutes recognize oral ag leases as legal and binding, BUT there are numerous stipulations that govern them.All oral leases are annual leases that run from March 1 to March 1 and renew automatically unless they are properly terminated. For a lease to be properly terminated it must meet three requirements. First, the notice to terminate must be in writing. Furthermore, it must state that the termination date is March 1 and the notice must be in the tenant’s hands 30 days prior to March 1. Any attempt to terminate a lease that does not meet these three criteria is not legally binding and the lease continues for another year at the terms agreed upon for the previous year.January is when many leases are renegotiated. It is important to get these negotiations wrapped up soon because if the tenant and landlord cannot agree on new terms, notice needs to be given 30 days prior to March 1st. Kansas statutes treat pasture or range land the same as crop land.Written leases can state other dates and contain many other stipulations into use of the land. But with an oral lease, in the eyes of the law, the tenant has full control for the entire year of that land including hunting rights. Which are some of the reasons why Extension really encourages written leases!There are some considerations and exceptions that I need to note. If wheat was already planted on the farmland at the time that proper notice of termination was given, the tenant still has the right to harvest that wheat. Cash rent will be paid as per the prior year’s lease or expenses and crop shared at the previously agreed upon terms. For those acres planted to wheat the lease ends when the crop is harvested. If a perennial forage crop such as alfalfa was planted last fall and a stand was established, then the landowner owes the tenant for all seed, fertilizer, etc., that was used to establish that perennial crop.The other area that may cause some issues is in fields that will be planted to spring crops. Some of these fields may have already been fertilized this past fall after harvest. Some may even have had herbicides put on for early season weed control pre-plant. If the tenant has applied these inputs and then is terminated properly by the landlord, the landlord owes the tenant for the fertilizer and/or weed control in addition to standard application charges. For cash rent leases that would be the full amount of the inputs applied, for crop share leases it would be the share that the tenant has paid for.Lastly to avoid terminating leases—communication is so vitally important for both parties to visit at least a few times a year. By doing this hopefully questions and concerns can be talked about and addressed before they become problems.For further information on leasing agricultural land go to www.agmanager.info click onto the Farm Management tab. Also, you can contact your local County or District Extension Office. The Cottonwood Extension Offices, Hays 785-628-9430 and Great Bend 620-793-1910.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: Agricultural lease deadline

Driving around town in January, expect to spot the Christmas tree mulch site. Some old trees tossed willy-nilly inside bright orange snow-fence still sport shiny tinsel, forlorn remains of holiday décor. The tugs at my heartstrings shouldn’t surprise me since discarded Christmas trees never fail to trigger brief sorrow.

I had to ask why this sight causes such a reaction. Part of it involves acknowledging another year has passed. Flipping a calendar page doesn’t affect me nearly as strongly as that stack of evergreens waiting to pass through a mulcher. Seeing wood chips instead of trees forces me to accept the date I write on checks.

The greatest reason this discard pile tilts my emotional Richter scale has to do with Christmas associations. Early memories center on Christmas trees. Bright bulbs, sparkling tinsel, and my mother’s collection of old ornaments fascinated me. As a tot, I treasured holding sparkling birds and delicate bulbs in my tiny palm before Mom gently hung them from a branch. Even then, I understood these recorded family stories.

Mom decorated modest evergreens that fit in various tiny living rooms over the years, but trips to Grandma’s meant blue lights and bulbs on a big aluminum tree. Other seasons, a rotating light wheel hypnotized me with its rainbow of ever-changing color reflecting off a snow-white tree. Grandma enjoyed variety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Driving around town in January, expect to spot the Christmas tree mulch site. Some old trees tossed willy-nilly inside bright orange snow-fence still sport shiny tinsel, forlorn remains of holiday décor. The tugs at my heartstrings shouldn’t surprise me since discarded Christmas trees never fail to trigger brief sorrow.I had to ask why this sight causes such a reaction. Part of it involves acknowledging another year has passed. Flipping a calendar page doesn’t affect me nearly as strongly as that stack of evergreens waiting to pass through a mulcher. Seeing wood chips instead of trees forces me to accept the date I write on checks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703195478779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The greatest reason this discard pile tilts my emotional Richter scale has to do with Christmas associations. Early memories center on Christmas trees. Bright bulbs, sparkling tinsel, and my mother’s collection of old ornaments fascinated me. As a tot, I treasured holding sparkling birds and delicate bulbs in my tiny palm before Mom gently hung them from a branch. Even then, I understood these recorded family stories.Mom decorated modest evergreens that fit in various tiny living rooms over the years, but trips to Grandma’s meant blue lights and bulbs on a big aluminum tree. Other seasons, a rotating light wheel hypnotized me with its rainbow of ever-changing color reflecting off a snow-white tree. Grandma enjoyed variety.As an adult with my own daughters, I preferred modest evergreens similar to those my parents selected. For years, the girls and I tramped Pinney Pines’ fields following Thanksgiving. We searched exhaustively for a tree containing a bird nest because lore said that brought good luck in the new year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703195508053.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Often, we slogged over swampy ground until mud-covered blobs coated our shoes before we found the treasure we sought. After Mr. Pinney cut it, we carried our treasure home only to discover lop-sided branches or a crooked trunk. Who cared because it had a bird nest? My husband, whose job it was to fit the tree in the stand, did. More than once, he wished we’d find more balanced showcases for beloved ornaments.After he secured the tree in its stand, wrapping it in lights and hanging ornaments captured the girls’ and my attention. As years pass, I treasure this moment more intensely. Opening our ornament box reminds me of raising the lid on a sacred chest of memory. Wrinkles, weight, and gray hair fall away until I am a new bride decorating a tiny tree with homemade ornaments and one store bought trinket I pinched pennies to buy. Baubles depicting babies, pets, new trucks, ballerinas, mules, horses, Santa fishing, and new homes commemorate lifetime landmarks. Sitting in the dark with only Christmas lights shining creates the perfect setting to give thanks for each ornament and its associated memories.A sage once said, “One can’t experience joy if one doesn’t know sadness.” This statement describes our Christmas tree perfectly. If putting away ornaments and taking the tree down didn’t sadden me, I wouldn’t feel near the joy putting it up and hanging memories that celebrate a lifetime of joys.

Opinion