I attended the forum for the position of Ellis County Clerk with the two candidates, Bobbie Dreiling and Laura Allen and decided Bobbie is definitely the person we want in that position.

I found Bobbie to be an honest and sincere person and good steward of our taxpayer dollars!

Bobbie praised her staff , which were present to support her. Obviously they all have a good working relationship and friendship. To me that is a sign of a great &nbsp;leader and that is important when getting things done.

Bobbie comes with years of experience and she does her homework. She did check out a polling place on campus and discovered it wasn’t feasible. There are 1,650 students living on campus and only 69 registered to vote. The numbers just aren’t there. It’s common sense.

Ms. Allen seems to think college kids aren’t capable of knowing where and how to register to vote and to vote. These are young adults pursuing a higher education, I’m sure they can figure it out. Ms Allen seems to be focused on this one issue, voting poll on campus. I question if she truly understands what the position entails.

Bobbie doesn’t need several misleading flyers sent to our homes to get votes. Her record and job performance speaks for itself. In my opinion Bobbie deserves another 4 years, she’s proven it.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

— Ellis County Citizen, Ruth Legleiter

I attended the forum for the position of Ellis County Clerk with the two candidates, Bobbie Dreiling and Laura Allen and decided Bobbie is definitely the person we want in that position.I found Bobbie to be an honest and sincere person and good steward of our taxpayer dollars!Bobbie praised her staff , which were present to support her. Obviously they all have a good working relationship and friendship. To me that is a sign of a great &nbsp;leader and that is important when getting things done.Bobbie comes with years of experience and she does her homework. She did check out a polling place on campus and discovered it wasn’t feasible. There are 1,650 students living on campus and only 69 registered to vote. The numbers just aren’t there. It’s common sense.Ms. Allen seems to think college kids aren’t capable of knowing where and how to register to vote and to vote. These are young adults pursuing a higher education, I’m sure they can figure it out. Ms Allen seems to be focused on this one issue, voting poll on campus. I question if she truly understands what the position entails.Bobbie doesn’t need several misleading flyers sent to our homes to get votes. Her record and job performance speaks for itself. In my opinion Bobbie deserves another 4 years, she’s proven it.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; — Ellis County Citizen, Ruth Legleiter

Letter: Dreiling's record as Ellis County Clerk speaks for itself

Normally, someone referring to hot fingers makes me think of thievery. After a recent jalapeño popper- making session, scorched fingers now come to mind.

I thought I’d learned this lesson years ago when I canned jalapeños. That time, I picked a two-gallon bucket full of the searing torches and did NOT wear gloves to deseed or defiber them. Holy cow, my hands sizzled for three solid days. I washed them repeatedly. I used high quality hand lotion. I soaked them in milk. I soaked them in baking soda. I soaked them in vinegar. Nothing alleviated that pain. The fiery sensation prevented sleep, leaving me contentious as a momma bear.

This time, I only cleaned 24 freshly-harvested peppers to make poppers, dices, and slices. Because of past experience, I wore gloves while removing seeds and internal fibers. Once I’d cut them in half, I parboiled them before filling with cream cheese and wrapping with par-cooked bacon to reduce baking time later.

I filled those little dugouts with the cream cheese, garlic, and cheddar mixture. Then I wrapped each one in a half slice of bacon, skewered with a toothpick. Again. no issues. Latex protected my fingers.

What triggered the melt-down involved 6 leftover deseeded peppers. For those who make their own poppers, you know we can’t waste a perfectly good, cleaned jalapeño. I decided to dice half and slice decorative rings from the rest.

Using gloves to finely dice something is difficult, so I tugged them off. After all, I’d removed scorching seeds and combustible guts. Surely, I was safe. Yeah, right….

Acting like the queen of cutting boards and sharp knives, I slivered those babies and diced them into tiny bits to toss into soups and casseroles this winter. So finely chopped, it took a while to collect the bits into a container, but my nerve cells remained calm for that moment.

Once I got the slivered bits in the bag, nerve receptors hit the alert button, which I ignored. What the heck? I’d washed ‘em and set out cleaned, whole peppers for decorative slicing. While I didn’t think I’d contacted innards, sensory detectors disagreed. Suddenly, a three-alarm fire nipped at every finger-tip on both hands. I had to finish the job, so I worked through the pain and stored those pretty little rings to garnish winter meals.

After tucking those fiery treasures into the freezer, I washed and washed and washed agonized flesh. I coated it with lanoline-based creams. That helped for a minute or two before jalapeño capsaicin re-activated. Clearly, pepper flesh contains chemical enough to trigger nerve endings even when seeds and stringy flesh are removed.

While six of those poppers roasted enticingly in the oven, I continued washing with soap and water over and over and over. Frankly, I didn’t expect relief after that three-day marathon of burning flesh a few decades ago. The good news is this time wearing gloves prevented that. I may have gotten a reminder of that experience, but soap and water finally did the trick, letting nerve endings calm.

Lesson learned. No matter how awkward it is to wear gloves while dicing jalapeños, do it anyway. The poppers tasted great, by the way. I think I’ll throw on a pair of gloves and make a second batch to carry us through coming cold days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730127838287.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINNormally, someone referring to hot fingers makes me think of thievery. After a recent jalapeño popper- making session, scorched fingers now come to mind.I thought I’d learned this lesson years ago when I canned jalapeños. That time, I picked a two-gallon bucket full of the searing torches and did NOT wear gloves to deseed or defiber them. Holy cow, my hands sizzled for three solid days. I washed them repeatedly. I used high quality hand lotion. I soaked them in milk. I soaked them in baking soda. I soaked them in vinegar. Nothing alleviated that pain. The fiery sensation prevented sleep, leaving me contentious as a momma bear.This time, I only cleaned 24 freshly-harvested peppers to make poppers, dices, and slices. Because of past experience, I wore gloves while removing seeds and internal fibers. Once I’d cut them in half, I parboiled them before filling with cream cheese and wrapping with par-cooked bacon to reduce baking time later.I filled those little dugouts with the cream cheese, garlic, and cheddar mixture. Then I wrapped each one in a half slice of bacon, skewered with a toothpick. Again. no issues. Latex protected my fingers.What triggered the melt-down involved 6 leftover deseeded peppers. For those who make their own poppers, you know we can’t waste a perfectly good, cleaned jalapeño. I decided to dice half and slice decorative rings from the rest.Using gloves to finely dice something is difficult, so I tugged them off. After all, I’d removed scorching seeds and combustible guts. Surely, I was safe. Yeah, right….Acting like the queen of cutting boards and sharp knives, I slivered those babies and diced them into tiny bits to toss into soups and casseroles this winter. So finely chopped, it took a while to collect the bits into a container, but my nerve cells remained calm for that moment.Once I got the slivered bits in the bag, nerve receptors hit the alert button, which I ignored. What the heck? I’d washed ‘em and set out cleaned, whole peppers for decorative slicing. While I didn’t think I’d contacted innards, sensory detectors disagreed. Suddenly, a three-alarm fire nipped at every finger-tip on both hands. I had to finish the job, so I worked through the pain and stored those pretty little rings to garnish winter meals.After tucking those fiery treasures into the freezer, I washed and washed and washed agonized flesh. I coated it with lanoline-based creams. That helped for a minute or two before jalapeño capsaicin re-activated. Clearly, pepper flesh contains chemical enough to trigger nerve endings even when seeds and stringy flesh are removed.While six of those poppers roasted enticingly in the oven, I continued washing with soap and water over and over and over. Frankly, I didn’t expect relief after that three-day marathon of burning flesh a few decades ago. The good news is this time wearing gloves prevented that. I may have gotten a reminder of that experience, but soap and water finally did the trick, letting nerve endings calm.Lesson learned. No matter how awkward it is to wear gloves while dicing jalapeños, do it anyway. The poppers tasted great, by the way. I think I’ll throw on a pair of gloves and make a second batch to carry us through coming cold days.

MADORIN: Hot fingers

This general election, Rooks County residents will have a chance to weigh in on updating the county’s longstanding liquor by the drink regulation. Since 1987, Kansas counties have had the option to opt out of a rule, known as the “30% Food Rule,” which requires businesses to earn a minimum of 30% of their gross receipts from food sales in order to serve liquor by the drink. Forty-seven counties have already opted out by instituting a "0% Food Rule" as of January 2024.

As a semi-dry county, Rooks County currently mandates that any business selling liquor by the drink must derive at least 30% of its revenue from food. However, on Tuesday, November 5, voters will now decide: “Shall sale of alcoholic liquor by the individual drink in Rooks County be allowed in public places without a requirement that any portion of their gross receipts be from sales of food?”

I urge everyone to vote YES on the proposal to allow the sale of liquor by the drink without the burdensome food sales requirement.

For too long, Rooks County has limited the potential for new and diverse businesses to thrive. By eliminating the mandate that establishments serving liquor must derive at least 30% of their revenue from food, we can align ourselves with the Kansas counties that have already embraced this modernization,&nbsp;including three neighboring counties - Ellis, Phillips, and Graham. This change will provide local entrepreneurs the flexibility to explore a range of business models, from sports bars to breweries, cocktail lounges to distilleries, and more. Personally, as the owner of Letha's Events in Downtown Plainville, I would love to be able to provide bartending services at public events in our recently renovated space, without the need to offer a complete food menu as well.

Imagine the economic benefits as new establishments open their doors, filling vacant spaces and attracting visitors from neighboring communities. The potential for growth is significant, and by voting YES, we can remove the red tape that has held us back.

Let’s make Rooks County a vibrant place for both residents and visitors. Vote YES to modernize our liquor by the drink law and pave the way for economic development and greater choice in our community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>This general election, Rooks County residents will have a chance to weigh in on updating the county’s longstanding liquor by the drink regulation. Since 1987, Kansas counties have had the option to opt out of a rule, known as the “30% Food Rule,” which requires businesses to earn a minimum of 30% of their gross receipts from food sales in order to serve liquor by the drink. Forty-seven counties have already opted out by instituting a "0% Food Rule" as of January 2024.As a semi-dry county, Rooks County currently mandates that any business selling liquor by the drink must derive at least 30% of its revenue from food. However, on Tuesday, November 5, voters will now decide: “Shall sale of alcoholic liquor by the individual drink in Rooks County be allowed in public places without a requirement that any portion of their gross receipts be from sales of food?”I urge everyone to vote YES on the proposal to allow the sale of liquor by the drink without the burdensome food sales requirement.For too long, Rooks County has limited the potential for new and diverse businesses to thrive. By eliminating the mandate that establishments serving liquor must derive at least 30% of their revenue from food, we can align ourselves with the Kansas counties that have already embraced this modernization,&nbsp;including three neighboring counties - Ellis, Phillips, and Graham. This change will provide local entrepreneurs the flexibility to explore a range of business models, from sports bars to breweries, cocktail lounges to distilleries, and more. Personally, as the owner of Letha's Events in Downtown Plainville, I would love to be able to provide bartending services at public events in our recently renovated space, without the need to offer a complete food menu as well.Imagine the economic benefits as new establishments open their doors, filling vacant spaces and attracting visitors from neighboring communities. The potential for growth is significant, and by voting YES, we can remove the red tape that has held us back.Let’s make Rooks County a vibrant place for both residents and visitors. Vote YES to modernize our liquor by the drink law and pave the way for economic development and greater choice in our community.Sincerely, &nbsp;Ashley ComeauRooks County Resident&nbsp;&nbsp;

Letter to the Editor: Vote yes for modernizing liquor sales in Rooks Co.

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Make plans to attend the Central Kansas Beef Summit on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, from 9:00 am – 3:15 pm. The event will be highlighted by a presentation on managing cold stress in livestock and calving preparedness. This presentation is given by KSU Beef Extension Veterinarian AJ Tarpoff.

In addition to Dr. Tarpoff, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. This year’s breakout topics will cover fence law &amp; leases, livestock risk protection insurance, strategies for managing woody encroachment, trees and brush, and feed testing techniques.

The day will conclude with a presentation by the staff at the Kansas Agriculture Mediation Services.

The summit will be held at the Ellsworth Health &amp; Recreation Center located at 221 West Douglas Ave, Ellsworth KS 67439. This program will be a collaboration among numerous K-State Research and Extension districts and will give producers a better chance to not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in conversation with one another.  

Make sure to RSVP by November 12th to reserve a meal. The cost to attend is $10 or late registration will be $15 at the door.

For more information on the event, or to register, please call Livestock Production Agent Clint Laflin at 785-483-3157 or send him an email at cllaflin@ksu.edu. This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Midway, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, River Valley, Phillips/Rooks, and Post Rock. We look forward to you joining us!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictMake plans to attend the Central Kansas Beef Summit on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, from 9:00 am – 3:15 pm. The event will be highlighted by a presentation on managing cold stress in livestock and calving preparedness. This presentation is given by KSU Beef Extension Veterinarian AJ Tarpoff.In addition to Dr. Tarpoff, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. This year’s breakout topics will cover fence law &amp; leases, livestock risk protection insurance, strategies for managing woody encroachment, trees and brush, and feed testing techniques.The day will conclude with a presentation by the staff at the Kansas Agriculture Mediation Services.The summit will be held at the Ellsworth Health &amp; Recreation Center located at 221 West Douglas Ave, Ellsworth KS 67439. This program will be a collaboration among numerous K-State Research and Extension districts and will give producers a better chance to not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in conversation with one another.  Make sure to RSVP by November 12th to reserve a meal. The cost to attend is $10 or late registration will be $15 at the door.For more information on the event, or to register, please call Livestock Production Agent Clint Laflin at 785-483-3157 or send him an email at cllaflin@ksu.edu. This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Midway, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, River Valley, Phillips/Rooks, and Post Rock. We look forward to you joining us!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Central Kanas Beef Summit Program to be hosted in Ellsworth

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Health numbers can tell us a lot about the condition of our bodies, and one that many of us pay close attention to is cholesterol. However, it can be tricky to understand what cholesterol numbers mean and how to keep them in check.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in blood lipids, and it's an essential component the body uses to build and maintain healthy cells and hormones. While cholesterol is important for good health, it’s a measurement that many of us struggle to control. This is because cholesterol can take on two forms that impact the body differently.

One form is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) which is known as “bad” cholesterol. The other form, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) is “good” cholesterol.

Too much LDL creates plaque that can accumulate and clog the arteries causing heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL is good because it helps clean artery walls and carry away excess LDL. This is why it’s smart to keep LDL cholesterol under 100 and HDL at 60 or above. Together, the total amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood should be under 200. This is known as “total cholesterol.”

High cholesterol has no symptoms and many people are unaware of their risk. However, factors that can increase the risk of developing high cholesterol such as diet and physical activity are modifiable.

For instance, about 25% of cholesterol comes from foods such as meat, fish, and dairy while the rest is made by the human body. This is how a person’s diet can influence the type of cholesterol in one’s body. Eating a diet rich in unsaturated fats including omega-3 fatty acids promotes the production of HDL. Sources like avocado, walnuts, and olive oil can help. Also, adding soluble fiber can help to remove

LDL, and reducing red meat and full-fat dairy products can lower the amount of LDL introduced to the body.

Along with good nutrition, adequate physical activity improves total cholesterol. Cardiovascular exercises like swimming and running work to reduce bad cholesterol by increasing HDL. Resistance training also plays a part in enhancing the benefits of cardio. Including weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight movements in your routine can make an impact.

Of course, not all risk factors are controllable. For example, age, family history, and gender can play a part. However, lifestyle factors like a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management help to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So, do your part to take control of cholesterol; you might just realize how much better you feel.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictHealth numbers can tell us a lot about the condition of our bodies, and one that many of us pay close attention to is cholesterol. However, it can be tricky to understand what cholesterol numbers mean and how to keep them in check.Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in blood lipids, and it's an essential component the body uses to build and maintain healthy cells and hormones. While cholesterol is important for good health, it’s a measurement that many of us struggle to control. This is because cholesterol can take on two forms that impact the body differently.One form is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) which is known as “bad” cholesterol. The other form, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) is “good” cholesterol.Too much LDL creates plaque that can accumulate and clog the arteries causing heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL is good because it helps clean artery walls and carry away excess LDL. This is why it’s smart to keep LDL cholesterol under 100 and HDL at 60 or above. Together, the total amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood should be under 200. This is known as “total cholesterol.”High cholesterol has no symptoms and many people are unaware of their risk. However, factors that can increase the risk of developing high cholesterol such as diet and physical activity are modifiable.For instance, about 25% of cholesterol comes from foods such as meat, fish, and dairy while the rest is made by the human body. This is how a person’s diet can influence the type of cholesterol in one’s body. Eating a diet rich in unsaturated fats including omega-3 fatty acids promotes the production of HDL. Sources like avocado, walnuts, and olive oil can help. Also, adding soluble fiber can help to removeLDL, and reducing red meat and full-fat dairy products can lower the amount of LDL introduced to the body.Along with good nutrition, adequate physical activity improves total cholesterol. Cardiovascular exercises like swimming and running work to reduce bad cholesterol by increasing HDL. Resistance training also plays a part in enhancing the benefits of cardio. Including weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight movements in your routine can make an impact.Of course, not all risk factors are controllable. For example, age, family history, and gender can play a part. However, lifestyle factors like a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management help to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So, do your part to take control of cholesterol; you might just realize how much better you feel.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: Take control of cholesterol

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

I’m always raving about all the wildlife and outdoor adventures we have here in Kansas, but much like an inverse bucket list, there are also things I’m glad we DON’T have here. The other night I watched a TV show about the Florida Everglades. The host of the show was there to try and catch a monster everglades bull shark, and as sort of a rite-of-passage, his local guides made him first swim with alligators and then help them catch a huge python snake which are an invasive species to the everglades and are wreaking havoc with its fragile ecosystem. I used to trap muskrats in the McPherson Valley wetlands just outside Inman, which involves wading around in marshes of cattails and marsh grass that look a little like areas of the Everglades. I’m eternally grateful I don’t have to keep my eyes peeled for gators and pythons; geez, I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas.

I think Joyce and I must have been storm chasers in a previous life; when the tornado sirens blare and the TV weathers guys are yellin’ at us to get in our storm cellars or go to the basement, we’re bustin’ out lawn chairs and watching for the twister, despite the devastation they can cause. Some of the memories I’ll take with me to the grave are pictures and news footage showing all the absolute devastation caused by the hurricanes recently in North Carolina and Florida. So as much as I’d like to own some oceanfront property here in Kansas, I’ll take the occasional tornado that can wipe out parts of towns along its way over a hurricane or tsunami that can wipe out the entire state; geez I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas.

Dad had a place in a nice “snowbird park” in Mesa Arizona, and one of the activities he enjoyed was picking oranges, lemons and grapefruits with other guys from the park. The Mesa and Scottsdale areas are havens for citrus fruit trees. There are acres of commercial orange groves within the Mesa city limits, plus many homeowners have citrus trees in their backyards like homeowners in Kansas have apple, apricot and pear trees. And like homeowners here, many people don’t want or use most of the citrus fruit from those trees. Each February a crew of guys from dad’s park would go one day each week and pick unwanted fruit for homeowners, then bag the fruit and take it back to the park and put it out for any residents who want it. Many of the homeowners even gave the guys gas money for picking and taking their unwanted fruit. It was a win-win deal all the way around, but the homeowners there seemed much more serious about getting rid of their unwanted oranges, lemons and grapefruit than homeowners here are about getting rid of their unwanted fruit, and I often wondered why. I found out it’s because of a rodent called a “roof rat.”

Roof rats are also known as black rats (but are not really black) and are slightly distinguished from other rats by the length of their tails which are longer than their bodies. Roof rats are historically thought to be the vermin that spread the Plague or Black Death during the Middle Ages. They were first noticed in the Phoenix AZ area in 2001, and have become a problem throughout the area because fresh fruit and especially citrus fruit is their favorite meal. I found a website maintained by Maricopa County AZ, which contains the cities of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Mesa, called www.roofrat.net. Its mission statement reads “To help neighborhoods work, donate quality fruit and eradicate roof rats.” On a list of roof rats preferred foods, the top 6 were citrus fruits, which according to the website they will even eat off the tree. To help eradicate roof rats, the website urges homeowners to “Promptly and completely pick all

fruit (ripe or not) on citrus and other fruit and nut trees and pick up all fallen fruit every season.” I was told that Scottsdale residents may even incur a hefty fine for not doing so. Roof rats nest in attics, hedges and even in trees.

Maybe writing this column was a lesson in just how good we Kansans have it compared to some other states. Yes, we have ticks and brown spiders which both require our respect. We have earth shattering thunderstorms and tornados, but not hurricanes. We have bull snakes, rat snakes and the occasional prairie rattler, but not gators and pythons. We have mice, rats and pack rats (which can be a problem if not discovered,) but not roof rats to eat the fruit off our trees and infest our neighborhoods. Geez I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsI’m always raving about all the wildlife and outdoor adventures we have here in Kansas, but much like an inverse bucket list, there are also things I’m glad we DON’T have here. The other night I watched a TV show about the Florida Everglades. The host of the show was there to try and catch a monster everglades bull shark, and as sort of a rite-of-passage, his local guides made him first swim with alligators and then help them catch a huge python snake which are an invasive species to the everglades and are wreaking havoc with its fragile ecosystem. I used to trap muskrats in the McPherson Valley wetlands just outside Inman, which involves wading around in marshes of cattails and marsh grass that look a little like areas of the Everglades. I’m eternally grateful I don’t have to keep my eyes peeled for gators and pythons; geez, I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas.I think Joyce and I must have been storm chasers in a previous life; when the tornado sirens blare and the TV weathers guys are yellin’ at us to get in our storm cellars or go to the basement, we’re bustin’ out lawn chairs and watching for the twister, despite the devastation they can cause. Some of the memories I’ll take with me to the grave are pictures and news footage showing all the absolute devastation caused by the hurricanes recently in North Carolina and Florida. So as much as I’d like to own some oceanfront property here in Kansas, I’ll take the occasional tornado that can wipe out parts of towns along its way over a hurricane or tsunami that can wipe out the entire state; geez I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas.Dad had a place in a nice “snowbird park” in Mesa Arizona, and one of the activities he enjoyed was picking oranges, lemons and grapefruits with other guys from the park. The Mesa and Scottsdale areas are havens for citrus fruit trees. There are acres of commercial orange groves within the Mesa city limits, plus many homeowners have citrus trees in their backyards like homeowners in Kansas have apple, apricot and pear trees. And like homeowners here, many people don’t want or use most of the citrus fruit from those trees. Each February a crew of guys from dad’s park would go one day each week and pick unwanted fruit for homeowners, then bag the fruit and take it back to the park and put it out for any residents who want it. Many of the homeowners even gave the guys gas money for picking and taking their unwanted fruit. It was a win-win deal all the way around, but the homeowners there seemed much more serious about getting rid of their unwanted oranges, lemons and grapefruit than homeowners here are about getting rid of their unwanted fruit, and I often wondered why. I found out it’s because of a rodent called a “roof rat.”Roof rats are also known as black rats (but are not really black) and are slightly distinguished from other rats by the length of their tails which are longer than their bodies. Roof rats are historically thought to be the vermin that spread the Plague or Black Death during the Middle Ages. They were first noticed in the Phoenix AZ area in 2001, and have become a problem throughout the area because fresh fruit and especially citrus fruit is their favorite meal. I found a website maintained by Maricopa County AZ, which contains the cities of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Mesa, called www.roofrat.net. Its mission statement reads “To help neighborhoods work, donate quality fruit and eradicate roof rats.” On a list of roof rats preferred foods, the top 6 were citrus fruits, which according to the website they will even eat off the tree. To help eradicate roof rats, the website urges homeowners to “Promptly and completely pick allfruit (ripe or not) on citrus and other fruit and nut trees and pick up all fallen fruit every season.” I was told that Scottsdale residents may even incur a hefty fine for not doing so. Roof rats nest in attics, hedges and even in trees.Maybe writing this column was a lesson in just how good we Kansans have it compared to some other states. Yes, we have ticks and brown spiders which both require our respect. We have earth shattering thunderstorms and tornados, but not hurricanes. We have bull snakes, rat snakes and the occasional prairie rattler, but not gators and pythons. We have mice, rats and pack rats (which can be a problem if not discovered,) but not roof rats to eat the fruit off our trees and infest our neighborhoods. Geez I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Geez I’m glad we don’t have those in Kansas

By RUSSELL FOX Insight Kansas

Most voters make their decisions for various unreflective reasons; engaging in a prolonged internal struggle over whether or not to support any particular candidate, especially a candidate nominated by a party which the voter identifies with, just isn’t typical behavior.

Donald Trump, though, has never been a typical candidate; he’s always been a contentious one. There is less talk today of “Never Trumpers,” as many of those Republicans who opposed Trump’s rise to dominance within the GOP have left the party. But not all have—even in Kansas, a state that gave Trump 56% of the popular vote in 2016 and 2020, and will likely do so again.

Given that Kansas Republicans have historically divided into moderate and conservative factions, perhaps the fact that there remains a small but persistent number of Republicans who still reject Trump’s control over the GOP isn’t surprising. Stephanie Sharp, a Republican who served three terms in the Kansas House, is one of the prime movers behind&nbsp;<a href="https://www.women4us.org/">Women 4 U.S.</a>, a national organization of self-identifying conservative women working against Trump’s return to the White House. Steven Howe, current Republican member of the Kansas House, condemned Trump’s “<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">deceit and lies</a>” and plead with his own party to turn away from their support for the former president. And then there is U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, the only one of the Republicans which Kansans have elected to Congress who has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article292202050.html">declined to endorse Trump</a>&nbsp;for president. While he’s never directly condemned Trump either, this is a man who, if you’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/03/a-tale-of-two-congressmen-with-10-point.html">paid attention to his speeches over the years</a>, clearly has little respect for the leader of his own party.

I also have to include here a deeply conservative friend of mine, a life-long Republican voter who finds Trump’s dismissive attitude towards both the law and the truth utterly disqualifying, despite mostly agreeing with Trump on matters of policy.

He, like those mentioned above, knows that his opposition won’t significantly affect voting results in Kansas; it’s a given that Kansas’s electoral college votes will go to Donald Trump.

But what will that result have on the longstanding divide within Kansas’s dominant political party? All political parties deal with internal divisions over policy priorities, but a rejection of the person who leads the party itself? The Bernie Sanders faction of the Democratic party, despite its grievances, made its peace with and supported both Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, and is set to do the same for Kamala Harris, whereas the absence of any Trump-critical Republicans from the current GOP campaign—from Mitt Romney to Lynn Cheney to Mike Pence--suggests a division quite unlike the divides Kansas Republican faced over Governor Brownback, for example.

I think of another friend, a smart and passionate GOP volunteer, who is entirely on board with the MAGA line: that Trump won the election in 2020, and that Trump’s actions to challenge being denied his supposed win were justified, despite the violence involved. Assuming neither of my friends change their minds, how can their party accommodate such a stark division?

Perhaps by just ignoring it? (It’s notable that Rep. Howe has faced no intra-party challenge in his re-election race). Or if Trump loses, maybe find common ground by treating the past decade as just a strange, rough patch in party history, something that historians will have to figure out?

Neither of those options will be available if Trump wins, or just refuses once again to accept his loss. So long a Trump’s presence endures, I would anticipate that a small but persistent fracture will remain in our state Republican politics. Who knows how long it will take for it to heal then?

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL FOX Insight KansasMost voters make their decisions for various unreflective reasons; engaging in a prolonged internal struggle over whether or not to support any particular candidate, especially a candidate nominated by a party which the voter identifies with, just isn’t typical behavior.Donald Trump, though, has never been a typical candidate; he’s always been a contentious one. There is less talk today of “Never Trumpers,” as many of those Republicans who opposed Trump’s rise to dominance within the GOP have left the party. But not all have—even in Kansas, a state that gave Trump 56% of the popular vote in 2016 and 2020, and will likely do so again.Given that Kansas Republicans have historically divided into moderate and conservative factions, perhaps the fact that there remains a small but persistent number of Republicans who still reject Trump’s control over the GOP isn’t surprising. Stephanie Sharp, a Republican who served three terms in the Kansas House, is one of the prime movers behind&nbsp;<a href="https://www.women4us.org/">Women 4 U.S.</a>, a national organization of self-identifying conservative women working against Trump’s return to the White House. Steven Howe, current Republican member of the Kansas House, condemned Trump’s “<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">deceit and lies</a>” and plead with his own party to turn away from their support for the former president. And then there is U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, the only one of the Republicans which Kansans have elected to Congress who has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article292202050.html">declined to endorse Trump</a>&nbsp;for president. While he’s never directly condemned Trump either, this is a man who, if you’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/03/a-tale-of-two-congressmen-with-10-point.html">paid attention to his speeches over the years</a>, clearly has little respect for the leader of his own party.I also have to include here a deeply conservative friend of mine, a life-long Republican voter who finds Trump’s dismissive attitude towards both the law and the truth utterly disqualifying, despite mostly agreeing with Trump on matters of policy.He, like those mentioned above, knows that his opposition won’t significantly affect voting results in Kansas; it’s a given that Kansas’s electoral college votes will go to Donald Trump.But what will that result have on the longstanding divide within Kansas’s dominant political party? All political parties deal with internal divisions over policy priorities, but a rejection of the person who leads the party itself? The Bernie Sanders faction of the Democratic party, despite its grievances, made its peace with and supported both Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, and is set to do the same for Kamala Harris, whereas the absence of any Trump-critical Republicans from the current GOP campaign—from Mitt Romney to Lynn Cheney to Mike Pence--suggests a division quite unlike the divides Kansas Republican faced over Governor Brownback, for example.I think of another friend, a smart and passionate GOP volunteer, who is entirely on board with the MAGA line: that Trump won the election in 2020, and that Trump’s actions to challenge being denied his supposed win were justified, despite the violence involved. Assuming neither of my friends change their minds, how can their party accommodate such a stark division?Perhaps by just ignoring it? (It’s notable that Rep. Howe has faced no intra-party challenge in his re-election race). Or if Trump loses, maybe find common ground by treating the past decade as just a strange, rough patch in party history, something that historians will have to figure out?Neither of those options will be available if Trump wins, or just refuses once again to accept his loss. So long a Trump’s presence endures, I would anticipate that a small but persistent fracture will remain in our state Republican politics. Who knows how long it will take for it to heal then?Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

INSIGHT KANSAS:  Kansas Republicans and the problem of Donald Trump

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Shattercane (Sorghum bicolor), sometimes called wild cane or black amber, is the same species as our domesticated sorghums. Some authorities give it the subspecies name drummondii to distinguish it from our cultivated varieties, though the taxonomy of this genus is often debated. What is certain, though, is that shattercane easily cross-pollinates with cultivated sorghums via insects and wind-dispersed pollen and also cross-pollinates with its weedy relative johnsongrass (Sorghum halapense).

Ecology - A native of Africa, this species is now widespread in areas of the world where domesticated grain or forage sorghums are grown. It is possible that sorghum arrived in the U.S. as early as the 1600s, but reliable records indicate that several documented introductions occurred in the early 1800s. Shattercane can be utilized by livestock as a forage, but it can accumulate toxic nitrates and prussic acid under certain conditions. Undigested seeds can be spread in manure applied to fields. Shattercane seeds can also be buoyant, allowing for dispersal in moving water. Birds and small mammals utilize its seeds. Shattercane is a host species for disease and insect pests of sorghum and corn. Yield losses from shattercane interference can be as high as 70% in corn and greater than 95% in soybeans.

Identification- shattercane is a warm-season plant growing up to 12 feet tall. The plant is quite variable in growth habits and tolerant of both heat and drought. The stems are unbranched, but the plant tillers at the base to form clumps. The leaves are generally smooth and display a prominent midrib. They can be up to 20 inches long and 2 inches wide. It has a short membranous ligule with a fringe of hairs at the top. The inflorescence is typically a loose panicle with several pendulous (drooping) racemes (branches). Seeds are dark brown and typically covered with deep purple to black chaff. The panicles, which can number from one to six per plant, produce between 500 and 1500 seeds each. A special layer of abscission cells at the base of the seeds allows them to easily dislodge (shatter) at maturity, giving the plant its common name. Management -to see the detailed herbicide management practices for shattercane control in soybean, sunflower, corn, grain and forage sorghum. Go to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu and see the Oct. 10th issue of the K-State Agronomy eUpdate.

To prevent the spread of shattercane seeds by harvesting infested fields last (where possible), thoroughly cleaning harvest equipment before moving to a new field, and controlling shattercane in ditches and roadways. These cultural control methods are good integrated weed management practices regardless of which crop is being grown.

Information provided by Sarah Lancaster and Patrick Geier, K-State Research &amp; Extension Weed Management Specialist.

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/2023/4/1681266615291.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictShattercane (Sorghum bicolor), sometimes called wild cane or black amber, is the same species as our domesticated sorghums. Some authorities give it the subspecies name drummondii to distinguish it from our cultivated varieties, though the taxonomy of this genus is often debated. What is certain, though, is that shattercane easily cross-pollinates with cultivated sorghums via insects and wind-dispersed pollen and also cross-pollinates with its weedy relative johnsongrass (Sorghum halapense).Ecology - A native of Africa, this species is now widespread in areas of the world where domesticated grain or forage sorghums are grown. It is possible that sorghum arrived in the U.S. as early as the 1600s, but reliable records indicate that several documented introductions occurred in the early 1800s. Shattercane can be utilized by livestock as a forage, but it can accumulate toxic nitrates and prussic acid under certain conditions. Undigested seeds can be spread in manure applied to fields. Shattercane seeds can also be buoyant, allowing for dispersal in moving water. Birds and small mammals utilize its seeds. Shattercane is a host species for disease and insect pests of sorghum and corn. Yield losses from shattercane interference can be as high as 70% in corn and greater than 95% in soybeans.Identification- shattercane is a warm-season plant growing up to 12 feet tall. The plant is quite variable in growth habits and tolerant of both heat and drought. The stems are unbranched, but the plant tillers at the base to form clumps. The leaves are generally smooth and display a prominent midrib. They can be up to 20 inches long and 2 inches wide. It has a short membranous ligule with a fringe of hairs at the top. The inflorescence is typically a loose panicle with several pendulous (drooping) racemes (branches). Seeds are dark brown and typically covered with deep purple to black chaff. The panicles, which can number from one to six per plant, produce between 500 and 1500 seeds each. A special layer of abscission cells at the base of the seeds allows them to easily dislodge (shatter) at maturity, giving the plant its common name. Management -to see the detailed herbicide management practices for shattercane control in soybean, sunflower, corn, grain and forage sorghum. Go to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu and see the Oct. 10th issue of the K-State Agronomy eUpdate.To prevent the spread of shattercane seeds by harvesting infested fields last (where possible), thoroughly cleaning harvest equipment before moving to a new field, and controlling shattercane in ditches and roadways. These cultural control methods are good integrated weed management practices regardless of which crop is being grown.Information provided by Sarah Lancaster and Patrick Geier, K-State Research &amp; Extension Weed Management Specialist.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: Shattercane weed

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

As October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month nationwide, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) stands at the forefront of cybersecurity education and innovation through its Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator (CITI). Focused on enhancing the cybersecurity landscape, CITI is poised to not only elevate the cybersecurity posture of Kansas but also to foster business ventures that leverage technological advancements in the region.

CITI's mission is to leverage the distinctive strengths of FHSU to advance the Kansas economy, particularly in asset preservation and entrepreneurial development. “Our goal is to collaborate with local community partners to build a robust cybersecurity framework and fortify defenses against the growing cyber threats that impact small and medium-sized businesses across the state,” said Jason Zeller, CITI’s operations director.

Central to CITI's efforts lies a commitment to developing a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals capable of empowering local businesses. The institute actively promotes micro-internships, which allow students to engage with real-world projects that enhance the cybersecurity readiness of local businesses. Through this innovative approach, CITI bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling students to apply their learning meaningfully.

Gage Giffin, a sophomore from Sedgwick, Kansas, became aware of CITI during a Cybersecurity Club meeting and quickly seized the opportunity for a summer micro-internship. “My experience as a lab assistant in the CITI CyberLab has been invaluable. I maintain computers, manage server applications, and build cybersecurity testing environments. I’ve explored vital areas like firewalls and virtualization security, which has paved the way for a promising career in DevOps—a critical sector in cybersecurity,” Gage said.

Caden Mayer, another sophomore and fellow CyberLab assistant, has also made significant contributions by helping to establish infrastructure and support environments for other students. Recognizing the vital role of education in preparing future cybersecurity professionals, Caden said, “This semester, I’ve taught Hays High School students about servers and their applications. Understanding cybersecurity is essential—it’s everywhere, and being proactive is crucial.”

Through micro-internships, CITI offers various services to meet the diverse needs of businesses seeking cybersecurity support. These services include website development, security reviews, basic and advanced network setup, and vulnerability assessments. These services will help local businesses understand and rectify their cybersecurity posture, a need that Chance Anderson—a graduate assistant at CITI—has recognized through his experiences.

Chance chose FHSU for its unique offerings, stating, “The people here make FHSU exceptional. The professors genuinely care about my success. Additionally, pursuing my bachelor’s and

graduate degrees with minimal debt is a significant advantage. Our cybersecurity program emphasizes real-world application, allowing ample hands-on experience rather than endless textbook readings. I’ve honed technical and soft skills, learning that every business presents unique challenges requiring tailored cybersecurity solutions.”

Reflecting on his experiences, Chance explains, “I’ve encountered many local businesses that lack essential cybersecurity resources, and it’s our role at CITI to address these gaps. We’re here to help navigate the increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.” Drawing on his leadership background as a former president of the Cybersecurity Club, he underscores the need to connect student talent with community requirements, ensuring no local business remains vulnerable to cyber threats.

Despite CITI's robust initiatives, challenges persist, particularly in getting the word out to small businesses about the available support. FHSU is actively seeking a Business Relations Director to amplify awareness of CITI’s offerings. Our greatest obstacle is effectively reaching out to companies to show them that we’re ready and equipped to support their IT and cybersecurity needs.

While micro-internships are the foundation for student engagement, CITI emphasizes venture creation through its in-residence business incubator. The incubator is designed to cultivate tech and cybersecurity startups that can flourish within Kansas. CITI aims to transform innovative ideas into successful business ventures by providing specialized guidance and support.

Jason said the incubator will initially focus on nurturing one to two startups with potential future referrals to the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as they mature. He said, " Our mission is to facilitate the development of new businesses in sectors that align with Kansas's unique opportunities.”

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights the critical need to protect digital assets, CITI's initiatives align perfectly with the broader mission to foster a secure digital community. The institute's strategy balances education, community outreach, and business development, illustrating a comprehensive approach to bolster local businesses and empower students.

Moreover, CITI’s dedicated faculty and staff remain passionate about the future of cybersecurity education and the growing professional opportunities it presents. With more than 700,000 job openings in the United States, the demand for cybersecurity experts is expanding rapidly. FHSU’s cybersecurity program equips students with the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges effectively.

Among CITI’s offerings, students can pursue either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications, with a concentration in cybersecurity, or opt for a Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to prepare students for various professional certifications, including Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Palo Alto Networks Network Security Administrator (PCNSA). This robust training ensures graduates are well-equipped to navigate the increasingly competitive job market.

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month prompts organizations and individuals to elevate their vigilance against cyber threats, CITI stands as a beacon of support and innovation in Kansas. By leveraging FHSU's educational resources, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing

community engagement through student internships, CITI is transforming the region's cybersecurity landscape and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.

The future is bright with dedicated students like Gage Giffin, Caden Mayer, and Chance Anderson leading the charge. They embody the vibrant ethos of CITI and its unwavering commitment to effecting tangible impact within the cybersecurity landscape in Kansas. As they continue on their paths, these students represent just a fraction of the potential that CITI holds—a potential that promises to contribute significantly to both local businesses and the field of cybersecurity in the years ahead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentAs October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month nationwide, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) stands at the forefront of cybersecurity education and innovation through its Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator (CITI). Focused on enhancing the cybersecurity landscape, CITI is poised to not only elevate the cybersecurity posture of Kansas but also to foster business ventures that leverage technological advancements in the region.CITI's mission is to leverage the distinctive strengths of FHSU to advance the Kansas economy, particularly in asset preservation and entrepreneurial development. “Our goal is to collaborate with local community partners to build a robust cybersecurity framework and fortify defenses against the growing cyber threats that impact small and medium-sized businesses across the state,” said Jason Zeller, CITI’s operations director.Central to CITI's efforts lies a commitment to developing a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals capable of empowering local businesses. The institute actively promotes micro-internships, which allow students to engage with real-world projects that enhance the cybersecurity readiness of local businesses. Through this innovative approach, CITI bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling students to apply their learning meaningfully.Gage Giffin, a sophomore from Sedgwick, Kansas, became aware of CITI during a Cybersecurity Club meeting and quickly seized the opportunity for a summer micro-internship. “My experience as a lab assistant in the CITI CyberLab has been invaluable. I maintain computers, manage server applications, and build cybersecurity testing environments. I’ve explored vital areas like firewalls and virtualization security, which has paved the way for a promising career in DevOps—a critical sector in cybersecurity,” Gage said.Caden Mayer, another sophomore and fellow CyberLab assistant, has also made significant contributions by helping to establish infrastructure and support environments for other students. Recognizing the vital role of education in preparing future cybersecurity professionals, Caden said, “This semester, I’ve taught Hays High School students about servers and their applications. Understanding cybersecurity is essential—it’s everywhere, and being proactive is crucial.”Through micro-internships, CITI offers various services to meet the diverse needs of businesses seeking cybersecurity support. These services include website development, security reviews, basic and advanced network setup, and vulnerability assessments. These services will help local businesses understand and rectify their cybersecurity posture, a need that Chance Anderson—a graduate assistant at CITI—has recognized through his experiences.Chance chose FHSU for its unique offerings, stating, “The people here make FHSU exceptional. The professors genuinely care about my success. Additionally, pursuing my bachelor’s andgraduate degrees with minimal debt is a significant advantage. Our cybersecurity program emphasizes real-world application, allowing ample hands-on experience rather than endless textbook readings. I’ve honed technical and soft skills, learning that every business presents unique challenges requiring tailored cybersecurity solutions.”Reflecting on his experiences, Chance explains, “I’ve encountered many local businesses that lack essential cybersecurity resources, and it’s our role at CITI to address these gaps. We’re here to help navigate the increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.” Drawing on his leadership background as a former president of the Cybersecurity Club, he underscores the need to connect student talent with community requirements, ensuring no local business remains vulnerable to cyber threats.Despite CITI's robust initiatives, challenges persist, particularly in getting the word out to small businesses about the available support. FHSU is actively seeking a Business Relations Director to amplify awareness of CITI’s offerings. Our greatest obstacle is effectively reaching out to companies to show them that we’re ready and equipped to support their IT and cybersecurity needs.While micro-internships are the foundation for student engagement, CITI emphasizes venture creation through its in-residence business incubator. The incubator is designed to cultivate tech and cybersecurity startups that can flourish within Kansas. CITI aims to transform innovative ideas into successful business ventures by providing specialized guidance and support.Jason said the incubator will initially focus on nurturing one to two startups with potential future referrals to the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as they mature. He said, " Our mission is to facilitate the development of new businesses in sectors that align with Kansas's unique opportunities.”As Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights the critical need to protect digital assets, CITI's initiatives align perfectly with the broader mission to foster a secure digital community. The institute's strategy balances education, community outreach, and business development, illustrating a comprehensive approach to bolster local businesses and empower students.Moreover, CITI’s dedicated faculty and staff remain passionate about the future of cybersecurity education and the growing professional opportunities it presents. With more than 700,000 job openings in the United States, the demand for cybersecurity experts is expanding rapidly. FHSU’s cybersecurity program equips students with the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges effectively.Among CITI’s offerings, students can pursue either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications, with a concentration in cybersecurity, or opt for a Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to prepare students for various professional certifications, including Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Palo Alto Networks Network Security Administrator (PCNSA). This robust training ensures graduates are well-equipped to navigate the increasingly competitive job market.As Cybersecurity Awareness Month prompts organizations and individuals to elevate their vigilance against cyber threats, CITI stands as a beacon of support and innovation in Kansas. By leveraging FHSU's educational resources, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancingcommunity engagement through student internships, CITI is transforming the region's cybersecurity landscape and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.The future is bright with dedicated students like Gage Giffin, Caden Mayer, and Chance Anderson leading the charge. They embody the vibrant ethos of CITI and its unwavering commitment to effecting tangible impact within the cybersecurity landscape in Kansas. As they continue on their paths, these students represent just a fraction of the potential that CITI holds—a potential that promises to contribute significantly to both local businesses and the field of cybersecurity in the years ahead.

Heart of a Tiger: FHSU’s Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator shaping the future for students and businesses

So…no see ums in hordes visited us this fall. When I say no see um, I mean that. I can bury arms, legs, and trunk in jungle-like tomato vines as I search for ripe or nearly ripe fruits. In no time, creatures so small I barely see them ferociously bite the tarnation out of me.

The first time it happened, the little devils chomped ankles and calves. Keep in mind I’m tall so it’s a distance from eyes to feet. For all the stinging I felt, I saw nothing I could blame for the pain. I hauled my now itching carcass out of those entwining vines and plopped onto a sunny step to contort my ankle into position so I could see well. All I noted were tiny black dots that looked like pepper flakes I sprinkle on our scrambled eggs each morning. While staring at these miniscule purveyors of pain, I saw one move, followed by a sharp biting sensation out of proportion to its size. The next morning, welts polka-dotted my lower body. One felt like a super-fine thorn protruded from it, but despite scratching and razoring the area, the sensation remained.

After spending another day searching for ripe tomatoes tucked into dark recesses, I ended up with swollen lumps covering my entire body and the realization that the thorn I thought I felt was actually one of these cotton-pickin’ bug bites. Again, the insects are smaller than poppy seeds or grains of pepper. Despite their miniscule size, their bites rival the discomfort of wasp and bee stings.

Apparently, I scratched in my sleep that night so I awakened to Richter scale irritations. Off to the prednisone and Neosporin aisle at our local store. The good news is I found no pepper-flake size bodies in my bed so the bites originated in the garden.

While I waited for anti-itch treatments to work, I searched the internet to learn what sort of invasion was ruining harvest. News sites reported on miniscule black bugs delivering painful bites. I sorted through suggestions, knowing this wasn’t a tick or chigger. I felt sure it wasn’t a flea either. Though I never found a definitive answer, reporters suggested labels—no see ums or midges (perfect for midget-size bugs) for these creatures.

That actually sounded familiar. My husband has used both terms in the past to describe small, biting insects that show up in the fall. Somehow, I had previously dodged them.

Our daughter, who lives on a ranch, confirmed they too suffered from masses of them this year as well. She dressed her girls in long sleeves, long pants, and tall boots before they worked cattle that weekend to protect them. I guess I should have skipped the t-shirts and capris during my tomato picking sessions. I’d have suffered less.

What I did learn, was that regardless of what you call these irritations, they eat destructive bugs such as aphids. So, while I may be doing an itchy-twitchy dance, the tiny invaders help my garden.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729708712364.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINSo…no see ums in hordes visited us this fall. When I say no see um, I mean that. I can bury arms, legs, and trunk in jungle-like tomato vines as I search for ripe or nearly ripe fruits. In no time, creatures so small I barely see them ferociously bite the tarnation out of me.The first time it happened, the little devils chomped ankles and calves. Keep in mind I’m tall so it’s a distance from eyes to feet. For all the stinging I felt, I saw nothing I could blame for the pain. I hauled my now itching carcass out of those entwining vines and plopped onto a sunny step to contort my ankle into position so I could see well. All I noted were tiny black dots that looked like pepper flakes I sprinkle on our scrambled eggs each morning. While staring at these miniscule purveyors of pain, I saw one move, followed by a sharp biting sensation out of proportion to its size. The next morning, welts polka-dotted my lower body. One felt like a super-fine thorn protruded from it, but despite scratching and razoring the area, the sensation remained.After spending another day searching for ripe tomatoes tucked into dark recesses, I ended up with swollen lumps covering my entire body and the realization that the thorn I thought I felt was actually one of these cotton-pickin’ bug bites. Again, the insects are smaller than poppy seeds or grains of pepper. Despite their miniscule size, their bites rival the discomfort of wasp and bee stings.Apparently, I scratched in my sleep that night so I awakened to Richter scale irritations. Off to the prednisone and Neosporin aisle at our local store. The good news is I found no pepper-flake size bodies in my bed so the bites originated in the garden.While I waited for anti-itch treatments to work, I searched the internet to learn what sort of invasion was ruining harvest. News sites reported on miniscule black bugs delivering painful bites. I sorted through suggestions, knowing this wasn’t a tick or chigger. I felt sure it wasn’t a flea either. Though I never found a definitive answer, reporters suggested labels—no see ums or midges (perfect for midget-size bugs) for these creatures.That actually sounded familiar. My husband has used both terms in the past to describe small, biting insects that show up in the fall. Somehow, I had previously dodged them.Our daughter, who lives on a ranch, confirmed they too suffered from masses of them this year as well. She dressed her girls in long sleeves, long pants, and tall boots before they worked cattle that weekend to protect them. I guess I should have skipped the t-shirts and capris during my tomato picking sessions. I’d have suffered less.What I did learn, was that regardless of what you call these irritations, they eat destructive bugs such as aphids. So, while I may be doing an itchy-twitchy dance, the tiny invaders help my garden.

MADORIN: A bite bigger than the bug

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and every year pink ribbons intertwine throughout the media. These small symbols represent the big issue of breast cancer and those affected by the disease. And there’s good reason to raise awareness as breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. In fact, one in eight women will have breast cancer at some point. In Kansas, it’s the top diagnosed invasive cancer.

The statistics are high. What would you do if you knew your chances of developing breast cancer were increased?

Your lifestyle can play a large role in overall health, and specifically, there are ways to take action to reduce your risk of breast cancer:

· Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight in the upper body is shown to increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer.

· Breastfeed. It’s not always possible for moms to breastfeed, but for those who can, it can offer some protection against cancer.

· Minimize post-menopausal hormone treatment. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider, but understand the risks of hormone replacement therapy.

· Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Good nutrition protects against cancer at the cellular level. Look for antioxidant-rich foods like berries, spinach, walnuts, and green tea.

· Get enough physical activity. Studies show that women who exercise four or more hours per week have a lower risk of breast cancer than less active women.

Like all diseases, some risk factors, such as genetic makeup and family history, are uncontrollable. In this case, embracing a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk is especially important. Along with this, regular breast exams can be lifesaving. In fact, women aged 45-54 should get a mammogram every year.

Unfortunately, breast cancer is common, and you likely know someone who has been diagnosed with the disease. But with advances in research and early detection, there are more survivors of breast cancer every year.

So, continue to spread awareness and proudly wear pink. Support those who battle breast cancer, and encourage healthy behaviors to reduce your risk. With conscious efforts, together we can help to make breast cancer less common in years to come.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictOctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and every year pink ribbons intertwine throughout the media. These small symbols represent the big issue of breast cancer and those affected by the disease. And there’s good reason to raise awareness as breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. In fact, one in eight women will have breast cancer at some point. In Kansas, it’s the top diagnosed invasive cancer.The statistics are high. What would you do if you knew your chances of developing breast cancer were increased?Your lifestyle can play a large role in overall health, and specifically, there are ways to take action to reduce your risk of breast cancer:· Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight in the upper body is shown to increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer.· Breastfeed. It’s not always possible for moms to breastfeed, but for those who can, it can offer some protection against cancer.· Minimize post-menopausal hormone treatment. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider, but understand the risks of hormone replacement therapy.· Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Good nutrition protects against cancer at the cellular level. Look for antioxidant-rich foods like berries, spinach, walnuts, and green tea.· Get enough physical activity. Studies show that women who exercise four or more hours per week have a lower risk of breast cancer than less active women.Like all diseases, some risk factors, such as genetic makeup and family history, are uncontrollable. In this case, embracing a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk is especially important. Along with this, regular breast exams can be lifesaving. In fact, women aged 45-54 should get a mammogram every year.Unfortunately, breast cancer is common, and you likely know someone who has been diagnosed with the disease. But with advances in research and early detection, there are more survivors of breast cancer every year.So, continue to spread awareness and proudly wear pink. Support those who battle breast cancer, and encourage healthy behaviors to reduce your risk. With conscious efforts, together we can help to make breast cancer less common in years to come.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: Reduce your risk of breast cancer

ELLSWORTH – Kansas State University extension specialists and agricultural agents and local conservation district representatives will host a field day focused on controlling woody encroachment and other brush management techniques.

This free event, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on November 6, will offer expert advice to the public about how to use chemical and mechanical treatments to combat the spread of invasive trees and brush. It will be hosted at the Robin Kohls Ranch, and a free lunch will be provided to participants.

Organizers say managing the spread of trees on grassland is essential.

“We know that Kansas is losing a lot of acres of grassland and pasture to the spread of trees and other brush,” said Stacie Minson, K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. “The economic loss for landowners and producers means learning these key land management strategies will be really beneficial now, and into the future.”

The program will include other topics as well, including the use of alternative watering systems for livestock, winter cow nutrition, and other water quality concerns. Minson said that this is especially relevant, as the day’s discussion will help the public learn more about how to improve water quality in Kanopolis Reservoir, which is the oldest reservoir in the state of Kansas.

The field day is sponsored by Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds, Midway Extension District, Ellsworth County Conservation District and Natural Resource Conservation Service in Ellsworth. Speakers from K-State will include experts on soil science, cropping systems, and watershed management.

Those interested in attending are asked to register online at https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0DnuDqCgW3zs0cu or to call 785-472-3161, ext. 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictELLSWORTH – Kansas State University extension specialists and agricultural agents and local conservation district representatives will host a field day focused on controlling woody encroachment and other brush management techniques.This free event, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on November 6, will offer expert advice to the public about how to use chemical and mechanical treatments to combat the spread of invasive trees and brush. It will be hosted at the Robin Kohls Ranch, and a free lunch will be provided to participants.Organizers say managing the spread of trees on grassland is essential.“We know that Kansas is losing a lot of acres of grassland and pasture to the spread of trees and other brush,” said Stacie Minson, K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. “The economic loss for landowners and producers means learning these key land management strategies will be really beneficial now, and into the future.”The program will include other topics as well, including the use of alternative watering systems for livestock, winter cow nutrition, and other water quality concerns. Minson said that this is especially relevant, as the day’s discussion will help the public learn more about how to improve water quality in Kanopolis Reservoir, which is the oldest reservoir in the state of Kansas.The field day is sponsored by Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds, Midway Extension District, Ellsworth County Conservation District and Natural Resource Conservation Service in Ellsworth. Speakers from K-State will include experts on soil science, cropping systems, and watershed management.Those interested in attending are asked to register online at https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0DnuDqCgW3zs0cu or to call 785-472-3161, ext. 3.

BOOR: K-State experts host field day about brush management

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Many people, for a variety of reasons, such as arthritis or other painful conditions, don’t participate in regular physical activity, despite the health benefits it would offer.

The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease program was developed to help people with or without arthritis form walking groups whose goals are safety and success. The program’s three major objectives are to provide participants with

· Education about successful physical activity for people with arthritis

· Opportunity to begin and develop an ongoing aerobic fitness program

Walk with Ease’s information and strategies are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change, and arthritis management.

Groups meet for 6 weeks, three times per week. Each session lasts about one hour. The length of each session depends on how long your group decides to walk. At the start, some people may only be able to walk 5 to 15 minutes, but the program will help you gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of walking, three times a week. The program can be modified to meet the interests and needs of participants, who walk at their own pace.

Each session begins with a brief discussion of a topic important to successful walking or arthritis management. After the discussion the group will warm up, stretch, walk, cool down, and stretch one last time. Walking with a group is fun and groups often spend additional time socializing.

The Walk with Ease program is designed for people with arthritis- young and old, male and female, fit and not-so-fit. It is also suitable for people without arthritis who would like to begin a regular walking program to gain the benefits of regular aerobic exercise.

If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can probably participate successfully, and the program can be modified to meet your needs.

If you want to participate but have concerns about your health, consult your health care practitioner before you begin.

To participate in the course, you complete and return an application. Please contact the Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or email moniquek@ksu.edu or you can stop by the office at 601 Main St. to fill out the application. The cost is $15 to participate. You receive a book with the class. Classes will meet most Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at 9:30am at Hays Recreation Center gyms. Classes begin November 4, 2024 and ends on December 13, 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 DistrictMany people, for a variety of reasons, such as arthritis or other painful conditions, don’t participate in regular physical activity, despite the health benefits it would offer.The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease program was developed to help people with or without arthritis form walking groups whose goals are safety and success. The program’s three major objectives are to provide participants with· Education about successful physical activity for people with arthritis· Education about arthritis management· Opportunity to begin and develop an ongoing aerobic fitness programWalk with Ease’s information and strategies are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change, and arthritis management.How does it work?Groups meet for 6 weeks, three times per week. Each session lasts about one hour. The length of each session depends on how long your group decides to walk. At the start, some people may only be able to walk 5 to 15 minutes, but the program will help you gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of walking, three times a week. The program can be modified to meet the interests and needs of participants, who walk at their own pace.Each session begins with a brief discussion of a topic important to successful walking or arthritis management. After the discussion the group will warm up, stretch, walk, cool down, and stretch one last time. Walking with a group is fun and groups often spend additional time socializing.Who can participate?The Walk with Ease program is designed for people with arthritis- young and old, male and female, fit and not-so-fit. It is also suitable for people without arthritis who would like to begin a regular walking program to gain the benefits of regular aerobic exercise.If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can probably participate successfully, and the program can be modified to meet your needs.If you want to participate but have concerns about your health, consult your health care practitioner before you begin.How do I register?To participate in the course, you complete and return an application. Please contact the Cottonwood Extension Office at 785-628-9430 or email moniquek@ksu.edu or you can stop by the office at 601 Main St. to fill out the application. The cost is $15 to participate. You receive a book with the class. Classes will meet most Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at 9:30am at Hays Recreation Center gyms. Classes begin November 4, 2024 and ends on December 13, 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: Walk with ease

In my snail mail box yesterday I found a flyer from KansasUnited.org. I googled them and learned they are affiliated with the ACLU. I applaud their efforts to provide information on candidates running for office. Kansas has a long list and considering the effort it takes to become an informed voter it was disappointing to see the list only addressed the Ellis County Clerk position, leaving the impression this was a political ad. That was disappointing from an organization dedicated to providing fair and unbiased voting information. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Each candidate was asked to respond to the following

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To put polling places in locations convenient for all eligible Ellis County citizens?

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That Ellis County polling locations are accessible to and meet the needs of residents with disabilities and the elderly?

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To extend the early voting period in Ellis County?

The candidate responded yes; the incumbent did not respond. Perhaps because these issues are already covered in her oath for office.

1. No address in the city of Hays is located more than 2 miles from the assigned polling location.

2. By law, polling locations must provide handicap assess.&nbsp; All Hays polling locations have adequate parking located near the entrance of the poll. All entrances have handicap ramps and personnel are available to assist the elderly.

3. Kansas law dictates early voting access.&nbsp; In Ellis County early voting begins October 16 with mail in ballot mailing. In person early voting is from October 28 – November 1, between the hours of 8am and 4pm. November 4th&nbsp;hours are 8am to 12 pm.&nbsp; Voting takes place at the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main Street.

I am not acquainted with Laura Allen and have no knowledge of her work history or experience in civil service.&nbsp; I have worked with Bobbie Dreiling as a poll judge for several local, state and national elections.&nbsp; She is a professional; knowledgeable, experienced, efficient, and dedicated to running an election that gives every registered Ellis County voter the opportunity to vote.&nbsp;

The time and effort in producing this flyer would have better served the people of Kansas with a list of candidates running for office and a link to information on their history and positions on important issues, ending with a GET OUT AND VOTE message. It is our right, it is our privilege, and it is our responsibility. Our democracy depends on it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>In my snail mail box yesterday I found a flyer from KansasUnited.org. I googled them and learned they are affiliated with the ACLU. I applaud their efforts to provide information on candidates running for office. Kansas has a long list and considering the effort it takes to become an informed voter it was disappointing to see the list only addressed the Ellis County Clerk position, leaving the impression this was a political ad. That was disappointing from an organization dedicated to providing fair and unbiased voting information. &nbsp;&nbsp;Each candidate was asked to respond to the followingDo you pledge1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To put polling places in locations convenient for all eligible Ellis County citizens?2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That Ellis County polling locations are accessible to and meet the needs of residents with disabilities and the elderly?3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To extend the early voting period in Ellis County?The candidate responded yes; the incumbent did not respond. Perhaps because these issues are already covered in her oath for office.1. No address in the city of Hays is located more than 2 miles from the assigned polling location.2. By law, polling locations must provide handicap assess.&nbsp; All Hays polling locations have adequate parking located near the entrance of the poll. All entrances have handicap ramps and personnel are available to assist the elderly.3. Kansas law dictates early voting access.&nbsp; In Ellis County early voting begins October 16 with mail in ballot mailing. In person early voting is from October 28 – November 1, between the hours of 8am and 4pm. November 4th&nbsp;hours are 8am to 12 pm.&nbsp; Voting takes place at the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main Street.I am not acquainted with Laura Allen and have no knowledge of her work history or experience in civil service.&nbsp; I have worked with Bobbie Dreiling as a poll judge for several local, state and national elections.&nbsp; She is a professional; knowledgeable, experienced, efficient, and dedicated to running an election that gives every registered Ellis County voter the opportunity to vote.&nbsp;The time and effort in producing this flyer would have better served the people of Kansas with a list of candidates running for office and a link to information on their history and positions on important issues, ending with a GET OUT AND VOTE message. It is our right, it is our privilege, and it is our responsibility. Our democracy depends on it.Cathy Van Doren

LETTER: KansasUnited flyer biased

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

At breakfast this morning, a friend remarked about the number of hawks he recently saw covering a newly-cut soybean field. Ah, I thought, it’s time for the annual raptor migration through Kansas to begin.

I love watching hawks hunt and I love observing how they’ve learned to interact with farm equipment as it rolls across fields and stirs up rodents and small birds that scurry about and often end up as a snack for the hawk. Our raised deer blind overlooks a grass waterway that grows up in giant sunflowers and pigweed by summer’s end, becoming a nice secure travel way for deer, but making them hard to spot during hunting season. I try to mow that area every fall, and every year as I mow the last swath of thick weedy cover, fat field mice scatter everywhere and I think to myself “Man, could the hawks be feasting here!” A few years back I happened by a nearby field of soybeans being cut. What caught my eye was the enormous number of hawks all around the field, just as exactly as my friend had described; I counted to thirty-some then lost count. I rolled into the field and talked with one of the combine drivers about the hawks. He said they had suddenly appeared as if from nowhere when they started cutting and had been there since. The soybean plants were extra tall and thick that year, and as they ripened and dropped their foliage, it left several inches of duff covering the ground between the rows; perfect cover for field mice and rats looking for warm concealment. As the combines lumbered through the field, they forced all those rodents from their cozy quarters and the hawks were feasting. 

Each year about this time, we begin to see an extraordinary number of hawks of all varieties as they migrate south toward warmer climates. The extent of our Kansas winter will largely determine whether they stay here for a spell or move on south, and our milder-than-normal winters of late have been a huge draw to migrating hawks. The hawks I observed hunting the soybean stubble field that year, and the ones my friend observed lately were obviously migrants that were getting a good meal whether they stayed or not. The vast acreages of new wheat fields will be a huge draw too, as mice, voles and insects become vulnerable to the hawk’s keen eyes in the short new wheat. Another plus is the type of air currents and thermals that blow through the plains states. North winds coming down from Canada are utilized by all types of hawks, saving them precious energy by being able to soar. So in summary, the mild winters, the open fields and the beneficial wind currents all make Kansas a popular place to see hawks of many varieties this time of year.

One common hawk we see here every winter is the Northern Harrier. They are large hawks with wide white bands across their broad square tails and are often seen gliding effortlessly mere feet above CRP fields and pastures. We also get an influx of Red Tails from northern states as they come here for our milder winters. Swainson Hawks on their way to Argentina stop in Kansas by the thousands. Rough-Legged Hawks migrate from Canada to the western US, including Kansas. Ferruginous Hawks may be seen here as they travel from Western Kansas to parts of the South Eastern US and to Florida. All these truly make for a kaleidoscope of raptors in our Kansas sky.

This article wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing the important role raptors play in our agricultural environment. Raptors get blamed for everything from low pheasant and quail populations to stealing chickens and everything in between. Yes, we all know that hawks and especially owls will steal a chicken or two given the chance, but in actuality, hawks prey on mice, rats, snakes and possums that eat quail and pheasant eggs and newly hatched young. (FYI, feral and stray cats are the worst predators alive for killing young game birds and song birds.) Owls are huge rat and mice hunters and also eat skunks that carry rabies. If not for these raptors in our midst, rodent populations would devastate farmer’s crops and our environment as a whole. And for the record, killing a raptor of any kind is illegal in Kansas!

You can’t go afield this time of year without spotting hawks silently hunting low over patches of CRP and milo stalks, waiting patiently atop power poles for prey to reveal themselves or putting on shows of acrobatic excellence as they soar above us on the fall breezes. I once overheard a raptor rehabilitator tell someone “We as humans have encroached on them, so the least we can do is let them live with us.” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsAt breakfast this morning, a friend remarked about the number of hawks he recently saw covering a newly-cut soybean field. Ah, I thought, it’s time for the annual raptor migration through Kansas to begin.I love watching hawks hunt and I love observing how they’ve learned to interact with farm equipment as it rolls across fields and stirs up rodents and small birds that scurry about and often end up as a snack for the hawk. Our raised deer blind overlooks a grass waterway that grows up in giant sunflowers and pigweed by summer’s end, becoming a nice secure travel way for deer, but making them hard to spot during hunting season. I try to mow that area every fall, and every year as I mow the last swath of thick weedy cover, fat field mice scatter everywhere and I think to myself “Man, could the hawks be feasting here!” A few years back I happened by a nearby field of soybeans being cut. What caught my eye was the enormous number of hawks all around the field, just as exactly as my friend had described; I counted to thirty-some then lost count. I rolled into the field and talked with one of the combine drivers about the hawks. He said they had suddenly appeared as if from nowhere when they started cutting and had been there since. The soybean plants were extra tall and thick that year, and as they ripened and dropped their foliage, it left several inches of duff covering the ground between the rows; perfect cover for field mice and rats looking for warm concealment. As the combines lumbered through the field, they forced all those rodents from their cozy quarters and the hawks were feasting. Each year about this time, we begin to see an extraordinary number of hawks of all varieties as they migrate south toward warmer climates. The extent of our Kansas winter will largely determine whether they stay here for a spell or move on south, and our milder-than-normal winters of late have been a huge draw to migrating hawks. The hawks I observed hunting the soybean stubble field that year, and the ones my friend observed lately were obviously migrants that were getting a good meal whether they stayed or not. The vast acreages of new wheat fields will be a huge draw too, as mice, voles and insects become vulnerable to the hawk’s keen eyes in the short new wheat. Another plus is the type of air currents and thermals that blow through the plains states. North winds coming down from Canada are utilized by all types of hawks, saving them precious energy by being able to soar. So in summary, the mild winters, the open fields and the beneficial wind currents all make Kansas a popular place to see hawks of many varieties this time of year.One common hawk we see here every winter is the Northern Harrier. They are large hawks with wide white bands across their broad square tails and are often seen gliding effortlessly mere feet above CRP fields and pastures. We also get an influx of Red Tails from northern states as they come here for our milder winters. Swainson Hawks on their way to Argentina stop in Kansas by the thousands. Rough-Legged Hawks migrate from Canada to the western US, including Kansas. Ferruginous Hawks may be seen here as they travel from Western Kansas to parts of the South Eastern US and to Florida. All these truly make for a kaleidoscope of raptors in our Kansas sky.This article wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing the important role raptors play in our agricultural environment. Raptors get blamed for everything from low pheasant and quail populations to stealing chickens and everything in between. Yes, we all know that hawks and especially owls will steal a chicken or two given the chance, but in actuality, hawks prey on mice, rats, snakes and possums that eat quail and pheasant eggs and newly hatched young. (FYI, feral and stray cats are the worst predators alive for killing young game birds and song birds.) Owls are huge rat and mice hunters and also eat skunks that carry rabies. If not for these raptors in our midst, rodent populations would devastate farmer’s crops and our environment as a whole. And for the record, killing a raptor of any kind is illegal in Kansas!You can’t go afield this time of year without spotting hawks silently hunting low over patches of CRP and milo stalks, waiting patiently atop power poles for prey to reveal themselves or putting on shows of acrobatic excellence as they soar above us on the fall breezes. I once overheard a raptor rehabilitator tell someone “We as humans have encroached on them, so the least we can do is let them live with us.” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Here come the hawks

Editors note: Sam Allen is the son of&nbsp;Laura Allen

Submitted by SAM ALLEN and ANNA TOWNS

The American Democracy Project (ADP) at Fort Hays State University has shared research showing increased voter registration at Kansas universities with polling locations on campus. Unfortunately, FHSU does not have a polling location on campus, despite years of advocating for one. That same research reveals the embarrassing fact that FHSU was the Regents school with the lowest voting rate in 2020. Surely, those two facts are related, and surely, it is time to make a change.

The current county clerk, Bobbi Dreiling has resisted efforts to establish a polling place on campus. When we discuss having a polling place on campus, the clerk asserts that the current location is not far for the college students to travel. As a student who lives on campus, it would take me (Samuel) approximately forty minutes to walk to the nearest polling location, Messiah Lutheran, and then another forty minutes to return to campus. This does not include any possible inclement weather we might have on election day, which may delay travel time. Nor does it take into consideration the class and work time that would be taken up by this journey.

We understand that students would not be the only population voting at a campus polling location. However, we believe that the high concentration of students in this area–and the potential for increased registrations–warrants the need for a polling place on campus. Campus and community groups have been working to bring a polling place to campus since at least 2018, and have met every challenge. Each new obstacle that the clerk invents has been solved by the dedicated students who have been working on this project for years:

● Finding an area that is big enough and ADA compliant: Cunningham Hall is large enough and is fully ADA compliant.

● Not enough parking (keep in mind that the previous polling location at 601 Main had fewer than 20 parking spots): Cunningham Hall has an abundance of parking spots, and the University Police have been supportive of efforts to bring a polling place to campus and would help with traffic flow issues.

● Location availability for Election Day and Special Elections: Coaches and building managers have agreed that the polling place would have priority, and that they would not schedule an event for election days.

A related issue is the absence of any attempt by the county clerk to engage FHSU students in the election process via education, awareness, and voter registration. At Monday’s County Clerk Forum, the Incumbent, Bobbi Dreiling, commented that she had not heard from students at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) or the American

Democracy Project (ADP), and therefore had not been active in voter education or registration on campus. At FHSU, anyone is welcome to have a table at the FHSU Back to School Picnic (former Clerk Maskus and Treasurer Peifer had a booth at the 2016 Picnic - Facebook), request a space to give a talk, or have a table in the Memorial Union.

The impetus to involve the campus community in the voting process should not lie with student groups alone. However, this semester, at least five student organizations hosted tables in the Union to help students get registered, check their registration, and request a mail-in ballot from Ellis County (or the Kansas county where they are registered). The clerk herself should be more proactive in her approach to community outreach and should have done more during a presidential election year, when more people are likely to be engaged in this democratic process.

I (Samuel), a student and employee at FHSU, also had the opportunity to speak to two sociology classes on campus about the importance of voting, getting registered, and the laws regarding elections in Kansas. We do not see any reason why the current clerk would not have taken the opportunity to reach out to students in this way as well. Clerk Dreiling says she has an open-door policy, but apparently, the door only works one way, where citizens have to come to her instead of being met where they are.

When we take a closer look at the statistics presented by Mrs. Dreling during the forum, we see a concerning reality: Out of the total 1,650 students residing on the FHSU campus, only 69 are registered to vote in Ellis County. This astonishingly low figure represents a mere 4% of the student population living on campus. We believe this situation highlights a significant missed opportunity for civic engagement with the campus community.

One can only imagine how enjoyable it must be for her to visit elementary schools and run mock elections with the young students, helping to instill in them a sense of civic duty and participation. However, the lack of follow-through with similar efforts directed toward college students at FHSU is a failure of the office. These college students are at a pivotal time in their lives when understanding and participating in real elections could greatly impact their commitment to this community and their future as engaged citizens.

Real elections influence everything from local policies to funding for educational programs, and yet, with such a small percentage of students registered to vote, it seems that their voices are not being heard. It would be beneficial for the county clerk to come to FHSU and engage students in discussions about the voting process, the importance of their participation, and the real-world consequences of their choices at the polls.

Creating opportunities for dialogue and education around these topics could inspire more students to register and vote, ultimately strengthening our democracy and enhancing community involvement.

Bobbi Dreiling has shown us time and again that she is not a candidate who supports this vision for Ellis County’s future. It is time to vote for a candidate who will work with and for all citizens. It is time to vote for Laura Allen!

Links: https://www.facebook.com/voteann/posts/pfbid03AAHVa3ioZV1WMfLVM31K7UjGVW6yaaUdJFGu4KrTytoyPqKiwZQz7vG8DCZx6ikl?rdid=9cB2ef7HMwNa7fix

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Editors note: Sam Allen is the son of&nbsp;Laura AllenSubmitted by SAM ALLEN and ANNA TOWNSThe American Democracy Project (ADP) at Fort Hays State University has shared research showing increased voter registration at Kansas universities with polling locations on campus. Unfortunately, FHSU does not have a polling location on campus, despite years of advocating for one. That same research reveals the embarrassing fact that FHSU was the Regents school with the lowest voting rate in 2020. Surely, those two facts are related, and surely, it is time to make a change.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729374733073.jpeg" alt="Image depicts former County Clerk Donna Maskus and County Tresuer Ann Pfeifer at the Back to School Bash at FHSU in 2016. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Image depicts former County Clerk Donna Maskus and County Tresuer Ann Pfeifer at the Back to School Bash at FHSU in 2016. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>The current county clerk, Bobbi Dreiling has resisted efforts to establish a polling place on campus. When we discuss having a polling place on campus, the clerk asserts that the current location is not far for the college students to travel. As a student who lives on campus, it would take me (Samuel) approximately forty minutes to walk to the nearest polling location, Messiah Lutheran, and then another forty minutes to return to campus. This does not include any possible inclement weather we might have on election day, which may delay travel time. Nor does it take into consideration the class and work time that would be taken up by this journey.We understand that students would not be the only population voting at a campus polling location. However, we believe that the high concentration of students in this area–and the potential for increased registrations–warrants the need for a polling place on campus. Campus and community groups have been working to bring a polling place to campus since at least 2018, and have met every challenge. Each new obstacle that the clerk invents has been solved by the dedicated students who have been working on this project for years:● Finding an area that is big enough and ADA compliant: Cunningham Hall is large enough and is fully ADA compliant.● Not enough parking (keep in mind that the previous polling location at 601 Main had fewer than 20 parking spots): Cunningham Hall has an abundance of parking spots, and the University Police have been supportive of efforts to bring a polling place to campus and would help with traffic flow issues.● Location availability for Election Day and Special Elections: Coaches and building managers have agreed that the polling place would have priority, and that they would not schedule an event for election days.A related issue is the absence of any attempt by the county clerk to engage FHSU students in the election process via education, awareness, and voter registration. At Monday’s County Clerk Forum, the Incumbent, Bobbi Dreiling, commented that she had not heard from students at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) or the AmericanDemocracy Project (ADP), and therefore had not been active in voter education or registration on campus. At FHSU, anyone is welcome to have a table at the FHSU Back to School Picnic (former Clerk Maskus and Treasurer Peifer had a booth at the 2016 Picnic - Facebook), request a space to give a talk, or have a table in the Memorial Union.The impetus to involve the campus community in the voting process should not lie with student groups alone. However, this semester, at least five student organizations hosted tables in the Union to help students get registered, check their registration, and request a mail-in ballot from Ellis County (or the Kansas county where they are registered). The clerk herself should be more proactive in her approach to community outreach and should have done more during a presidential election year, when more people are likely to be engaged in this democratic process.I (Samuel), a student and employee at FHSU, also had the opportunity to speak to two sociology classes on campus about the importance of voting, getting registered, and the laws regarding elections in Kansas. We do not see any reason why the current clerk would not have taken the opportunity to reach out to students in this way as well. Clerk Dreiling says she has an open-door policy, but apparently, the door only works one way, where citizens have to come to her instead of being met where they are.When we take a closer look at the statistics presented by Mrs. Dreling during the forum, we see a concerning reality: Out of the total 1,650 students residing on the FHSU campus, only 69 are registered to vote in Ellis County. This astonishingly low figure represents a mere 4% of the student population living on campus. We believe this situation highlights a significant missed opportunity for civic engagement with the campus community.One can only imagine how enjoyable it must be for her to visit elementary schools and run mock elections with the young students, helping to instill in them a sense of civic duty and participation. However, the lack of follow-through with similar efforts directed toward college students at FHSU is a failure of the office. These college students are at a pivotal time in their lives when understanding and participating in real elections could greatly impact their commitment to this community and their future as engaged citizens.Real elections influence everything from local policies to funding for educational programs, and yet, with such a small percentage of students registered to vote, it seems that their voices are not being heard. It would be beneficial for the county clerk to come to FHSU and engage students in discussions about the voting process, the importance of their participation, and the real-world consequences of their choices at the polls.Creating opportunities for dialogue and education around these topics could inspire more students to register and vote, ultimately strengthening our democracy and enhancing community involvement.Bobbi Dreiling has shown us time and again that she is not a candidate who supports this vision for Ellis County’s future. It is time to vote for a candidate who will work with and for all citizens. It is time to vote for Laura Allen!Links: https://www.facebook.com/voteann/posts/pfbid03AAHVa3ioZV1WMfLVM31K7UjGVW6yaaUdJFGu4KrTytoyPqKiwZQz7vG8DCZx6ikl?rdid=9cB2ef7HMwNa7fix

LETTER: Vote Allen to support voting on FHSU campus

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

This year’s presidential campaign has featured shocking statements and dramatic moments, including two assassination attempts. More recently, former President Trump made alarming comments about “enemies within” that hint at the use of military force against his political opponents, while Vice President Harris is struggling with a reticence among men of color to vote for her. Despite all this, the election itself may come down to a far more traditional, pocketbook issue.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/2024-election-and-the-economy-survey/?tpt=a">new Bankrate survey</a>&nbsp;shows that 41% of Americans are concerned about inflation.&nbsp; More generally,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/651719/economy-important-issue-2024-presidential-vote.aspx">Gallup</a>&nbsp;finds that the economy is the top issue this year, with 52% of voters calling it “extremely important.”&nbsp;

Inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/page-one-economics/2023/08/25/the-rise-and-fall-of-inflation-during-the-early-2020s#:~:text=Economists%20suggested%20both%20supply%20and,and%20higher%20over%20this%20period.&amp;text=See%2C%20for%20example%2C%20the%20San,and%20continued%20acceleration%20in%20inflation.">surged after the covid pandemic</a>&nbsp;due a variety of factors including clogged supply chains, worker shortages, and pent-up consumer demand.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/federal-spending-was-responsible-2022-spike-inflation-research-shows">One study by MIT researchers</a>&nbsp;found that federal spending was the biggest driver.&nbsp; This included stimulus checks and support for state governments. That spending also had positive effects, likely averting a recession and possibly even a depression.&nbsp; After their spike, inflation rates today are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/latest-inflation-statistics/?tpt=a">back down to 2.4% annually,</a>&nbsp;a level last seen in February 2021.&nbsp; Most economists attribute this control primarily to the Federal Reserve’s policy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clevelandfed.org/center-for-inflation-research/inflation-101/why-does-the-fed-care-start">raising interest rates</a>.&nbsp; So, why are voters still upset?

First is the fact that controlling interest rates does not return prices to pre-inflationary levels.&nbsp; Instead, Fed policy has slowed the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, causing them to stabilize at a point that is 21.4% more expensive than before February 2020.&nbsp; The last time Americans experienced high inflation was in the 1970s. Many older Americans have forgotten, while many younger Americans were not around to experience it.&nbsp; Should the Fed keep going and fight inflation even harder– perhaps even starting a cycle of deflation?&nbsp; If they did, the result could be traumatic.&nbsp; When the Fed finally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/great-inflation">brought inflation to heel in the early 1980s</a>, interest rates were far higher than they are now, unemployment was in the double digits, and the<a href="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/mypath/2422/farm-crisis-1980s">&nbsp;farm economy was absolutely devastated</a>.&nbsp; By contrast,<a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LNS14000024">&nbsp;today’s unemployment rates</a>&nbsp;are historically low.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasThis year’s presidential campaign has featured shocking statements and dramatic moments, including two assassination attempts. More recently, former President Trump made alarming comments about “enemies within” that hint at the use of military force against his political opponents, while Vice President Harris is struggling with a reticence among men of color to vote for her. Despite all this, the election itself may come down to a far more traditional, pocketbook issue.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/2024-election-and-the-economy-survey/?tpt=a">new Bankrate survey</a>&nbsp;shows that 41% of Americans are concerned about inflation.&nbsp; More generally,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/651719/economy-important-issue-2024-presidential-vote.aspx">Gallup</a>&nbsp;finds that the economy is the top issue this year, with 52% of voters calling it “extremely important.”&nbsp;Inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/page-one-economics/2023/08/25/the-rise-and-fall-of-inflation-during-the-early-2020s#:~:text=Economists%20suggested%20both%20supply%20and,and%20higher%20over%20this%20period.&amp;text=See%2C%20for%20example%2C%20the%20San,and%20continued%20acceleration%20in%20inflation.">surged after the covid pandemic</a>&nbsp;due a variety of factors including clogged supply chains, worker shortages, and pent-up consumer demand.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/federal-spending-was-responsible-2022-spike-inflation-research-shows">One study by MIT researchers</a>&nbsp;found that federal spending was the biggest driver.&nbsp; This included stimulus checks and support for state governments. That spending also had positive effects, likely averting a recession and possibly even a depression.&nbsp; After their spike, inflation rates today are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/latest-inflation-statistics/?tpt=a">back down to 2.4% annually,</a>&nbsp;a level last seen in February 2021.&nbsp; Most economists attribute this control primarily to the Federal Reserve’s policy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clevelandfed.org/center-for-inflation-research/inflation-101/why-does-the-fed-care-start">raising interest rates</a>.&nbsp; So, why are voters still upset?First is the fact that controlling interest rates does not return prices to pre-inflationary levels.&nbsp; Instead, Fed policy has slowed the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, causing them to stabilize at a point that is 21.4% more expensive than before February 2020.&nbsp; The last time Americans experienced high inflation was in the 1970s. Many older Americans have forgotten, while many younger Americans were not around to experience it.&nbsp; Should the Fed keep going and fight inflation even harder– perhaps even starting a cycle of deflation?&nbsp; If they did, the result could be traumatic.&nbsp; When the Fed finally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/great-inflation">brought inflation to heel in the early 1980s</a>, interest rates were far higher than they are now, unemployment was in the double digits, and the<a href="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/mypath/2422/farm-crisis-1980s">&nbsp;farm economy was absolutely devastated</a>.&nbsp; By contrast,<a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LNS14000024">&nbsp;today’s unemployment rates</a>&nbsp;are historically low.Americans are also, specifically concerned about housing.&nbsp; Post-pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/us-house-prices-are-forecast-to-rise-more-than-4-percent-next-year">demand for housing is surging</a>, but supply is not keeping up. Loosening up building restrictions and zoning codes seem like good answers, but the American system of government throws up a roadblock:&nbsp; state laws– including here in Kansas– delegate most of these regulations to local governments, creating a patchwork of codes and zoning laws that builders and rehabbers must navigate in order to create and rehabilitate more housing.&nbsp; The recent&nbsp;<a href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2023/10/05/prairie-village-housing-timeline-214778/">rejection of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Prairie Village</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/lenexa-city-council-votes-down-controversial-proposal-for-homeless-shelter-in-city">denial of rezoning for a homeless shelter in Lenexa</a>, are both examples of the Not In My Backyard (NIMBY) politics that keeps housing choices limited.&nbsp; In addition, when developers do move in, they often prefer to build upscale apartments or large, single-family units in exclusive neighborhoods where the profit margin is greatest, doing little to relieve the shortage of&nbsp;affordable&nbsp;homes.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a href="https://immigrationforum.org/article/immigrant-construction-workers-in-the-united-states/">current anti-immigration political climate also contributes to the problem</a>&nbsp;by threatening to limit the number of workers in the construction industry.&nbsp; If Trump is elected and proceeds with plans for mass deportations, the problem will only worsen.&nbsp; Of course, immigrants need homes, too, but research shows that they contribute far more to&nbsp;lowering&nbsp;the cost of housing by working in construction, than they contribute to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jd-vance-debate-immigration-housing-prices-real-estate-federal-reserve/#:~:text=Still%2C%20there%20is%20some%20evidence,but%20although%20a%20small%20one.">raising it through increased demand.</a>&nbsp;Inflation is a tough problem.&nbsp; Prices are not going back to pre-pandemic levels–the cost of doing so is simply too high.&nbsp; Popular policies like exclusive NIMBY zoning and anti-immigration legislation make the problem worse.&nbsp; Having been confronted with high inflation for the first time since the early 1980s, Americans are now re-learning what to do–and what not to do–in response.&nbsp;

Opinion