By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Are you an employer? Have you ever wondered how you could support your employees who are pregnant or have young children? During the pandemic the need for quality child care was highlighted because of how child care directly affects many aspects of a community. Difficulties with child care were also brought to the attention of communities.

Jennifer Traffis, of the Family Conservancy in Wyandotte County, leads a collaborative effort to improve child care. She wrote an article about how businesses can use the child care tax credit. This could be a way for employers to support their employees while it also benefits them. She explains the workforce connection and how child care is foundational to the health and stability of the economy. “Our economic strength relies on business, businesses rely on employees, and employees with young children rely on child care. Without child care, working families cannot fully and adequately participate in the workforce, which negatively impacts the economy and our local business sector’s bottom line.” She further explains, “The child care sector is significantly underfunded, and the business model is broken. Thus, employers are facing a workforce shortage due to the lack of reliable, affordable, quality child care options for families.”

She suggests that this problem isn’t just a family problem anymore but a community problem. When families have support from others around them then everyone wins. When businesses support their employees during their child bearing years, employers’ benefit. Employees will have improved morale and job satisfaction. The employer creates a loyal employee that feels supported. It can also attract quality employees when they offer benefits that other employers do not.

Child care tax credits are also offered to businesses that support child care efforts. More information about the child care tax credit can be found here: https://www.raisingwyco.org/take-action

If you click on Kansas Employer Child Care Tax Credit Toolkit is has an explanation on how it works at the federal and state level. Check it out!

There are many other ways employers can support their employees during pregnancy, lactation, and the early years.

1. Talk about plans and expectations early. There are laws in place to help protect this section of the population. It’s important that employees and employers have an open line of communication for both parties to express their needs and concerns.

2. Accommodate nursing mothers. Supporting nursing mothers results in a 3:1 return on investment through lower healthcare costs, employee absenteeism, turnover rates and productivity and loyalty.

3. Supporting fathers. Fathers need support to so they can be engaged with their family and balance providing financially and emotionally to his partner and children.

4. Add dependent care flexible spending accounts to your company benefits. This allows parents to save for child care with tax advantages.

5. Add a child care subsidy into your budget.

6. Implement an infants-at-work program as a low-cost child care solution and to support a positive work-life balance. Allowing mothers and babies to be together fulfills many needs. Of course, this isn’t always a solution since safety must be first. Not all industries could have infants at the workplace.

7. Expand parental leave. Allow extended, paid parental leave, including for adoptive and foster care parents.

8. Changing company policies. Set a predictable work schedule or think outside the box such as remote positions or part-time or shared schedules.

Another resources that employers could utilize to get ideas can be found here: https://childcareinkansas.com/employer-resources/ https://first1000daysks.org/familyfowardks/

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 DistrictAre you an employer? Have you ever wondered how you could support your employees who are pregnant or have young children? During the pandemic the need for quality child care was highlighted because of how child care directly affects many aspects of a community. Difficulties with child care were also brought to the attention of communities.Jennifer Traffis, of the Family Conservancy in Wyandotte County, leads a collaborative effort to improve child care. She wrote an article about how businesses can use the child care tax credit. This could be a way for employers to support their employees while it also benefits them. She explains the workforce connection and how child care is foundational to the health and stability of the economy. “Our economic strength relies on business, businesses rely on employees, and employees with young children rely on child care. Without child care, working families cannot fully and adequately participate in the workforce, which negatively impacts the economy and our local business sector’s bottom line.” She further explains, “The child care sector is significantly underfunded, and the business model is broken. Thus, employers are facing a workforce shortage due to the lack of reliable, affordable, quality child care options for families.”She suggests that this problem isn’t just a family problem anymore but a community problem. When families have support from others around them then everyone wins. When businesses support their employees during their child bearing years, employers’ benefit. Employees will have improved morale and job satisfaction. The employer creates a loyal employee that feels supported. It can also attract quality employees when they offer benefits that other employers do not.Child care tax credits are also offered to businesses that support child care efforts. More information about the child care tax credit can be found here: https://www.raisingwyco.org/take-actionIf you click on Kansas Employer Child Care Tax Credit Toolkit is has an explanation on how it works at the federal and state level. Check it out!There are many other ways employers can support their employees during pregnancy, lactation, and the early years.1. Talk about plans and expectations early. There are laws in place to help protect this section of the population. It’s important that employees and employers have an open line of communication for both parties to express their needs and concerns.2. Accommodate nursing mothers. Supporting nursing mothers results in a 3:1 return on investment through lower healthcare costs, employee absenteeism, turnover rates and productivity and loyalty.3. Supporting fathers. Fathers need support to so they can be engaged with their family and balance providing financially and emotionally to his partner and children.4. Add dependent care flexible spending accounts to your company benefits. This allows parents to save for child care with tax advantages.5. Add a child care subsidy into your budget.6. Implement an infants-at-work program as a low-cost child care solution and to support a positive work-life balance. Allowing mothers and babies to be together fulfills many needs. Of course, this isn’t always a solution since safety must be first. Not all industries could have infants at the workplace.7. Expand parental leave. Allow extended, paid parental leave, including for adoptive and foster care parents.8. Changing company policies. Set a predictable work schedule or think outside the box such as remote positions or part-time or shared schedules.Another resources that employers could utilize to get ideas can be found here: https://childcareinkansas.com/employer-resources/ https://first1000daysks.org/familyfowardks/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: Employers Supporting Child Care

This week is the fourth week of the 2024 legislative session, and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:

House Concurrent Resolution 5023 would amend the Kansas Constitution of the state of Kansas and lowers the minimum age for voting in elections from eighteen to sixteen. If passed by the Kansas Legislature with a supermajority vote, 84 votes in favor in the House, then the voters of Kansas would vote on this constitutional amendment.

House Bill 2607, which relates to agriculture in the state of Kansas, requires applicators of pesticides that are uncertified to be supervised, and requires applicants to file certificates of liability insurance, instead of bonds, letters of credit, or proof of escrow.

House Bill 2608 authorizes the Animal Health Commissioner to adopt rules and regulations to administer the Poultry Disease Control Act.

House Bill 2613 relates to the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program, most commonly referred to as “DARE.” It would create a position called the Statewide Drug Abuse Resistance Education Educator, establish the Drug Abuse Resistance Education Fund, and provide the funding for this fund by an annual transfer from the State General Fund.

House Bill 2006 relates to the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act by specifying that certain drug offenses do not warrant the forfeiture of property for those particular drug offenses.

House Bill 2600 would establish a grant program to award dollars to qualifying Title 1 schools and provide feminine hygiene products to students at no cost.

House Bill 2604 increases the dollar amount for small claims proceedings.

These are a handful of bills introduced, and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee. Many of these bills may not even have a hearing or make it out of committee.

The House Appropriations heard from the World Cup 2026 delegation on Tuesday morning. The delegation is advocating for $28-32 million for the World Cup that will be in the Kansas City region, both the Missouri and Kansas sides, in 2026. They explained that there are definitely three, possibly four, venues that will have base camps in Kansas. These base camps&nbsp;will generate a great economic impact to the state. They explained that in order for the selection of the World Cup, there needed to be enough hotel rooms within a 250-mile radius of the match, which would involve Lincoln and Ellsworth in House District 109. The Governor has proposed $20 million for the World Cup.

During the past couple of weeks, I have had meetings with both House and Senate leadership regarding the governor’s proposals for the state budget. Many items the governor has included in her budget do not need to be expended with dollars from the Kansas taxpayers. We are still discussing those items and will see if these happen to be funded in the final budget.

The House Appropriations Committee continued its discussions on the budgets for our state agencies and departments this week.

We heard the budget analysis for the Kansas Board of Hearing Aid Examiners, Kansas Lottery, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, and the Kansas Department of Revenue. The budget for the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission was interesting due to the selection of the new historic horse racing facility to be opened in Sedgwick County by 2025.

Thursday, we continued our budget discussions with the Abstractor’s Board of Examiners, Board of Indigents’ Defense Services, and the Board of Technical Professions.

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill (File photo)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill (File photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>February 2, 2024 Topeka<h2>Bills Introduced</h2>This week is the fourth week of the 2024 legislative session, and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:House Concurrent Resolution 5023 would amend the Kansas Constitution of the state of Kansas and lowers the minimum age for voting in elections from eighteen to sixteen. If passed by the Kansas Legislature with a supermajority vote, 84 votes in favor in the House, then the voters of Kansas would vote on this constitutional amendment.House Bill 2607, which relates to agriculture in the state of Kansas, requires applicators of pesticides that are uncertified to be supervised, and requires applicants to file certificates of liability insurance, instead of bonds, letters of credit, or proof of escrow.House Bill 2608 authorizes the Animal Health Commissioner to adopt rules and regulations to administer the Poultry Disease Control Act.House Bill 2613 relates to the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program, most commonly referred to as “DARE.” It would create a position called the Statewide Drug Abuse Resistance Education Educator, establish the Drug Abuse Resistance Education Fund, and provide the funding for this fund by an annual transfer from the State General Fund.House Bill 2006 relates to the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act by specifying that certain drug offenses do not warrant the forfeiture of property for those particular drug offenses.House Bill 2600 would establish a grant program to award dollars to qualifying Title 1 schools and provide feminine hygiene products to students at no cost.House Bill 2604 increases the dollar amount for small claims proceedings.These are a handful of bills introduced, and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee. Many of these bills may not even have a hearing or make it out of committee.<h2>Appropriations Committee – World Cup</h2>The House Appropriations heard from the World Cup 2026 delegation on Tuesday morning. The delegation is advocating for $28-32 million for the World Cup that will be in the Kansas City region, both the Missouri and Kansas sides, in 2026. They explained that there are definitely three, possibly four, venues that will have base camps in Kansas. These base camps&nbsp;will generate a great economic impact to the state. They explained that in order for the selection of the World Cup, there needed to be enough hotel rooms within a 250-mile radius of the match, which would involve Lincoln and Ellsworth in House District 109. The Governor has proposed $20 million for the World Cup.Discussions on State BudgetDuring the past couple of weeks, I have had meetings with both House and Senate leadership regarding the governor’s proposals for the state budget. Many items the governor has included in her budget do not need to be expended with dollars from the Kansas taxpayers. We are still discussing those items and will see if these happen to be funded in the final budget.The House Appropriations Committee continued its discussions on the budgets for our state agencies and departments this week.We heard the budget analysis for the Kansas Board of Hearing Aid Examiners, Kansas Lottery, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, and the Kansas Department of Revenue. The budget for the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission was interesting due to the selection of the new historic horse racing facility to be opened in Sedgwick County by 2025.Thursday, we continued our budget discussions with the Abstractor’s Board of Examiners, Board of Indigents’ Defense Services, and the Board of Technical Professions.<h2>Contact Information</h2>Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Feb. 2 — voting at 16, drug forfeiture law

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

When you envision retirement, positive thoughts likely bubble to the surface. You may be excited to relax, enjoy your freedom, and spend time with loved ones. However, retirement may not be exactly as it is imagined. What do I mean by this?

Erin Martinez, K-State Research and Extension specialist and associate professor of Adult Development and Aging shares her expertise:

“When you have your eyes set on retirement without a plan about how you are going to spend the time, it can be a bit of a shock and can disrupt your life by bringing about emotions about a lack of purpose.” She advises folks to not only have a financial retirement plan but also to think about what they want to accomplish in retirement.

“You don’t have to know exactly what you are going to do day-to-day, but spend time reflecting on what you value and what you want your big priorities in retirement to be,” Martinez said.

Knowing your purpose will help you move through the stages of retirement: honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation, retirement route, and termination.

While honeymoon refers to newfound freedom, Martinez said feelings of disenchantment can follow if you haven’t found a new purpose. During the reorientation phase, folks find new activities and form a plan for their retirement years along with settling into a new routine.

Termination can refer to ending the retirement plan by going back to work, but more commonly it means that the retiree needs to reduce their involvement due to declining health.

For some, shifting from full-time work to part-time work is a fantastic strategy that allows a person to slowly transition into retirement.

Martinez advises, “Talk with your employer to see if you can step into a part-time role or see what other options there might be even if it has never been done before.”

Looking for volunteer opportunities is another excellent way to find a purpose in retirement. “Volunteer Kansas is a great website to explore when looking for ideas,” Martinez suggests.

Serving others is one way that older adults can keep themselves physically and mentally healthy while maintaining social connections.

“As you shift in retirement, you can go from volunteering at school events to helping out at the senior center. This allows you to make different friends in new spaces,” Martinez said. “Socialization is incredibly important to healthy aging.”

As part of the retirement plan, it is important to communicate with family about your plan so that children and spouses don’t make assumptions about how you are going to spend time.

Sometimes family dynamics struggle in retirement because of uncommunicated plans. If ideas don’t align, friction can occur. Martinez advises couples to talk through their retirement goals and have a clear plan of what they hope to accomplish.

She added: “Mentally preparing for retirement involves a lot of internal processing about what is most meaningful to you and what you want your retirement legacy to be.”

Taking time now to understand your goals and purpose for retirement puts you on a rewarding path that allows you to get the most out of this stage of life.

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 DistrictWhen you envision retirement, positive thoughts likely bubble to the surface. You may be excited to relax, enjoy your freedom, and spend time with loved ones. However, retirement may not be exactly as it is imagined. What do I mean by this?Erin Martinez, K-State Research and Extension specialist and associate professor of Adult Development and Aging shares her expertise:“When you have your eyes set on retirement without a plan about how you are going to spend the time, it can be a bit of a shock and can disrupt your life by bringing about emotions about a lack of purpose.” She advises folks to not only have a financial retirement plan but also to think about what they want to accomplish in retirement.“You don’t have to know exactly what you are going to do day-to-day, but spend time reflecting on what you value and what you want your big priorities in retirement to be,” Martinez said.Knowing your purpose will help you move through the stages of retirement: honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation, retirement route, and termination.While honeymoon refers to newfound freedom, Martinez said feelings of disenchantment can follow if you haven’t found a new purpose. During the reorientation phase, folks find new activities and form a plan for their retirement years along with settling into a new routine.Termination can refer to ending the retirement plan by going back to work, but more commonly it means that the retiree needs to reduce their involvement due to declining health.For some, shifting from full-time work to part-time work is a fantastic strategy that allows a person to slowly transition into retirement.Martinez advises, “Talk with your employer to see if you can step into a part-time role or see what other options there might be even if it has never been done before.”Looking for volunteer opportunities is another excellent way to find a purpose in retirement. “Volunteer Kansas is a great website to explore when looking for ideas,” Martinez suggests.Serving others is one way that older adults can keep themselves physically and mentally healthy while maintaining social connections.“As you shift in retirement, you can go from volunteering at school events to helping out at the senior center. This allows you to make different friends in new spaces,” Martinez said. “Socialization is incredibly important to healthy aging.”As part of the retirement plan, it is important to communicate with family about your plan so that children and spouses don’t make assumptions about how you are going to spend time.Sometimes family dynamics struggle in retirement because of uncommunicated plans. If ideas don’t align, friction can occur. Martinez advises couples to talk through their retirement goals and have a clear plan of what they hope to accomplish.She added: “Mentally preparing for retirement involves a lot of internal processing about what is most meaningful to you and what you want your retirement legacy to be.”Taking time now to understand your goals and purpose for retirement puts you on a rewarding path that allows you to get the most out of this stage of life.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: Plan for retirement today

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

A couple years ago after catching my last bobcat of the trapping season, I laid it on the pickup tailgate and marveled at the magnificent creature it was. First the eyes, eyes that could probably spot a scurrying mouse at a hundred yards. Then the ears, each tipped with a tiny tuft of fur, they’re wondrous little organs that would probably have heard the same mouse even farther away. I stroked its plush fur and wondered aloud how its creamy-white spotted belly could be so beautiful. I took one of its paws in my hand, paws that seemed much too big for its lanky body. I cradled the paw upside down in my palm, and with my thumb pressed down on the underside of one toe. Out came a curved, talon-shaped claw sharp as a fishhook. When I released the toe it immediately covered itself again with a sheath of skin as if it was not even there. “How does this all work?” I wondered.

Given the “cancel culture” so prevalent in the US today, and the determination by many to completely eradicate God from every facet of our society, I hope today’s column doesn’t cause readers to turn the page without reading. I’m going to make a rather bold statement here, but stick with me… I believe in evolution. Yes, you read correctly, I believe in evolution… I believe in evolution as a process by which all wildlife adapts over years, generations or decades to changes in their environment, but I REFUSE to believe in anything other than God’s Creation as the vehicle by which the creature that lay on the pickup gate before me came to exist!

No matter how mundane or uneventful an outdoor adventure seems, I absolutely never leave nature’s presence without being fascinated by something. Maybe it just doesn’t take much to fascinate me anymore, but my wonderment with Creation starts pretty simply. For example, how does putting a kernel of corn into this stuff we call “soil” with a little water and sunshine cause a plant to grow? And furthermore, how does that seed know to grow a stalk of corn and not a soybean plant, a pigweed or a maple tree for that matter? And then there’s the part where it produces a big ol’ cob full of the exact seeds we started with, covered by several layers of heavy leaves to protect those seed till they ripen. Or how about the vibrant colors around a rooster pheasant’s face, the shimmering green of a mallard drake’s head, the stunning red hues of a male cardinal’s body or even the amazing palate of colors found on the tail of a pesky peacock? Then inversely, how do all the females of those same species end up totally dull and drab so they blend in with their surroundings as they sit on a nest filled with peculiar looking vessels called “eggs” that will hatch, and just like the corn plant, produce young that are exactly like their parents?

How do geese navigate to spots hundreds or even thousands of miles away, and yet find their way back home to nest? How do salmon end up where they were hatched to lay eggs of their own, which - you guessed it – will hatch into little salmon looking just like mom and dad. How do ducklings know how to swim when they are barely dry after hatching and how do hoards of baby turtles know to head straight for the ocean mere minutes after digging themselves free from their sand covered nests?

I’ve barely scratched the surface here, but I’ll tell you how I believe this all happens; it’s all Divinely designed to happen that way! Oh, I’ve heard all the other explanations; how we began as monkeys and “evolved” into humans. I have no doubt our ancestors looked nothing like us, (some people I still wonder about today) but trust me, we still began as humans. Then there’s the theory that life began as some sort of “stew” or “soup” and over a gazillion years “just happened” to develop into all we see today. As my wife would say, “It takes way more faith to believe that than it does to believe in Creation.”

Anyway, I’ve ranted enough for now, but the bottom line is that I believe deeply in evolution as the process by which all life adapts to its changing surroundings, but I believe deeply that all nature was created by God for us to enjoy and manage, and the day I stop believing that way, I’ll sell all my traps, fishing rods and guns and take up knitting, because I won’t deserve to Explore Kansas Outdoors anymore!

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 OutdoorsA couple years ago after catching my last bobcat of the trapping season, I laid it on the pickup tailgate and marveled at the magnificent creature it was. First the eyes, eyes that could probably spot a scurrying mouse at a hundred yards. Then the ears, each tipped with a tiny tuft of fur, they’re wondrous little organs that would probably have heard the same mouse even farther away. I stroked its plush fur and wondered aloud how its creamy-white spotted belly could be so beautiful. I took one of its paws in my hand, paws that seemed much too big for its lanky body. I cradled the paw upside down in my palm, and with my thumb pressed down on the underside of one toe. Out came a curved, talon-shaped claw sharp as a fishhook. When I released the toe it immediately covered itself again with a sheath of skin as if it was not even there. “How does this all work?” I wondered.Given the “cancel culture” so prevalent in the US today, and the determination by many to completely eradicate God from every facet of our society, I hope today’s column doesn’t cause readers to turn the page without reading. I’m going to make a rather bold statement here, but stick with me… I believe in evolution. Yes, you read correctly, I believe in evolution… I believe in evolution as a process by which all wildlife adapts over years, generations or decades to changes in their environment, but I REFUSE to believe in anything other than God’s Creation as the vehicle by which the creature that lay on the pickup gate before me came to exist!No matter how mundane or uneventful an outdoor adventure seems, I absolutely never leave nature’s presence without being fascinated by something. Maybe it just doesn’t take much to fascinate me anymore, but my wonderment with Creation starts pretty simply. For example, how does putting a kernel of corn into this stuff we call “soil” with a little water and sunshine cause a plant to grow? And furthermore, how does that seed know to grow a stalk of corn and not a soybean plant, a pigweed or a maple tree for that matter? And then there’s the part where it produces a big ol’ cob full of the exact seeds we started with, covered by several layers of heavy leaves to protect those seed till they ripen. Or how about the vibrant colors around a rooster pheasant’s face, the shimmering green of a mallard drake’s head, the stunning red hues of a male cardinal’s body or even the amazing palate of colors found on the tail of a pesky peacock? Then inversely, how do all the females of those same species end up totally dull and drab so they blend in with their surroundings as they sit on a nest filled with peculiar looking vessels called “eggs” that will hatch, and just like the corn plant, produce young that are exactly like their parents?How do geese navigate to spots hundreds or even thousands of miles away, and yet find their way back home to nest? How do salmon end up where they were hatched to lay eggs of their own, which - you guessed it – will hatch into little salmon looking just like mom and dad. How do ducklings know how to swim when they are barely dry after hatching and how do hoards of baby turtles know to head straight for the ocean mere minutes after digging themselves free from their sand covered nests?I’ve barely scratched the surface here, but I’ll tell you how I believe this all happens; it’s all Divinely designed to happen that way! Oh, I’ve heard all the other explanations; how we began as monkeys and “evolved” into humans. I have no doubt our ancestors looked nothing like us, (some people I still wonder about today) but trust me, we still began as humans. Then there’s the theory that life began as some sort of “stew” or “soup” and over a gazillion years “just happened” to develop into all we see today. As my wife would say, “It takes way more faith to believe that than it does to believe in Creation.”Anyway, I’ve ranted enough for now, but the bottom line is that I believe deeply in evolution as the process by which all life adapts to its changing surroundings, but I believe deeply that all nature was created by God for us to enjoy and manage, and the day I stop believing that way, I’ll sell all my traps, fishing rods and guns and take up knitting, because I won’t deserve to Explore Kansas Outdoors anymore!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Soup, Stew or Creation?

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

Kansas has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, and last week the state house began debate on a bill that, if passed, would put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to further enshrine gun rights in the state constitution.

The proposed amendment would change the language of Section 4 of the Kansas Bill of Rights to include possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components as constitutionally protected rights. It would also add:

The right to keep and bear arms is a natural and fundamental right. This shall not be infringed. Any restriction of such right shall be subject to the strict scrutiny standard.

In 1905, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled in Salina v. Blaksley that the current language in Section 4 does not protect an individual right to bear arms. In more recent cases, the Court has also rejected arguments that use Section 4 to challenge state and local statutes regulating firearms.

Should the state constitution be amended, it would only allow the state legislature to regulate firearms if it furthered a “compelling governmental interest” and was narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.

Not to mention, federal regulations would still supersede state law — a relationship currently being reinforced as Missouri’s Second Amendment Preservation Act makes its way through the federal court system.

Importantly, this proposed amendment contradicts Kansans’ public opinion on gun regulation.

A vast majority of Kansans support restrictions beyond the state’s current regulations.

In fall 2022, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University asked Kansans about ten gun regulation policies in their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey.

More than 70% of those surveyed favored six of the ten policies: requiring universal background checks; requiring a person to be 21 or older; mandatory three-day waiting period; preventing sales to people who have been reported as dangerous by mental health providers; preventing sales to people who have been convicted of violent

misdemeanors; and allowing family members to ask the court to temporarily remove guns from people at risk of harming themselves or others.

64% of those surveyed favored authorizing law enforcement officers to temporarily remove guns from individuals who pose an immediate threat of harm to self or others.

And more than 50% of those surveyed favored: banning assault-style weapons; banning high-capacity ammunition clips; and having teachers with appropriate training carry guns at school.

Perhaps surprising to some, a majority of the state’s gun owners also favored nine of these ten policies. Banning assault style weapons was the only exception; supported by 45% of gun owners, opposed by 38%, and neither favored nor opposed by 17%. Note: nearly half (49%) of Kansans surveyed had a firearm in their home.

As is often the case, proposed gun laws contradict public opinion on the issue, and Kansas is no exception.

Political science research can help us understand why the state legislature has introduced an amendment that would make it harder to enact extremely popular gun regulations into law.

For nearly two decades, research has shown that energy has ebbed and flowed among pro-regulation groups while pro-gun groups have been able to sustain political activism.

However, new research found that gun policy has become a durable issue of public concern due to the increased mobilization among pro-regulation citizens in recent years; marking a fundamental shift in public engagement on the gun issue.

The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action in Kansas underscores the complex relationship between policy decisions and popular sentiment, especially in a changing political environment.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasKansas has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, and last week the state house began debate on a bill that, if passed, would put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to further enshrine gun rights in the state constitution.The proposed amendment would change the language of Section 4 of the Kansas Bill of Rights to include possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components as constitutionally protected rights. It would also add:The right to keep and bear arms is a natural and fundamental right. This shall not be infringed. Any restriction of such right shall be subject to the strict scrutiny standard.In 1905, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled in Salina v. Blaksley that the current language in Section 4 does not protect an individual right to bear arms. In more recent cases, the Court has also rejected arguments that use Section 4 to challenge state and local statutes regulating firearms.Should the state constitution be amended, it would only allow the state legislature to regulate firearms if it furthered a “compelling governmental interest” and was narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.Not to mention, federal regulations would still supersede state law — a relationship currently being reinforced as Missouri’s Second Amendment Preservation Act makes its way through the federal court system.Importantly, this proposed amendment contradicts Kansans’ public opinion on gun regulation.A vast majority of Kansans support restrictions beyond the state’s current regulations.In fall 2022, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University asked Kansans about ten gun regulation policies in their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey.More than 70% of those surveyed favored six of the ten policies: requiring universal background checks; requiring a person to be 21 or older; mandatory three-day waiting period; preventing sales to people who have been reported as dangerous by mental health providers; preventing sales to people who have been convicted of violentmisdemeanors; and allowing family members to ask the court to temporarily remove guns from people at risk of harming themselves or others.64% of those surveyed favored authorizing law enforcement officers to temporarily remove guns from individuals who pose an immediate threat of harm to self or others.And more than 50% of those surveyed favored: banning assault-style weapons; banning high-capacity ammunition clips; and having teachers with appropriate training carry guns at school.Perhaps surprising to some, a majority of the state’s gun owners also favored nine of these ten policies. Banning assault style weapons was the only exception; supported by 45% of gun owners, opposed by 38%, and neither favored nor opposed by 17%. Note: nearly half (49%) of Kansans surveyed had a firearm in their home.As is often the case, proposed gun laws contradict public opinion on the issue, and Kansas is no exception.Political science research can help us understand why the state legislature has introduced an amendment that would make it harder to enact extremely popular gun regulations into law.For nearly two decades, research has shown that energy has ebbed and flowed among pro-regulation groups while pro-gun groups have been able to sustain political activism.However, new research found that gun policy has become a durable issue of public concern due to the increased mobilization among pro-regulation citizens in recent years; marking a fundamental shift in public engagement on the gun issue.The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action in Kansas underscores the complex relationship between policy decisions and popular sentiment, especially in a changing political environment.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Divide between lawmakers and citizens on Kansas gun policy

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

In the aftermath of the tragic murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, the urgent need for effective de-escalation techniques within law enforcement became painfully clear. During this time, the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) emerged as a beacon of hope, providing comprehensive training programs to reduce use-of-force incidents and save lives.

Dr. Tamara Lynn, Chair of the Criminal Justice Program at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), leads the charge. Driven by the desire to make a difference, she wasted no time in seeking information about joining the NDTC as a regional center. With FHSU's centralized location, the university became the ideal hub for coordinating training across the central United States.

Dr. Lynn's vision extended beyond law enforcement careers to encompass diverse fields within the criminal justice system. She recognized the value of de-escalation training for students pursuing careers in corrections, probation and parole, juvenile services, and other roles where tensions can escalate rapidly.

The goal is to equip current and future students with de-escalation techniques, ultimately reducing use-of-force incidents and the needless loss of life. Driven by a relentless passion, Dr. Lynn aims to make a difference, not only for her students and the criminal justice professionals they will become but also for communities nationwide.

Today, the NDTC is making significant strides in its mission to provide essential de-escalation training to law enforcement agencies across the central United States. The Fort Hays State University Criminal Justice Program acts as the Region 2 headquarters for the NDTC, allowing for coordinated efforts in seven states: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Wyoming.

The program offers a range of training modalities, ensuring that law enforcement officers receive the necessary skills to effectively de-escalate high-pressure situations. From face-to-face courses to online training, the NDTC leaves no stone unturned in its efforts to shape a culture of de-escalation within law enforcement agencies.

The impact of the NDTC's work has not gone unnoticed. Recently, the program received two federal grants totaling $2.75 million to support its training initiatives. The community recognition and financial support prove the relevance and importance of the NDTC's mission.

Collaboration has been another key driver of the NDTC's success. Through partnerships with agencies like the Tampa Bay Police Department, the program has secured grants specifically tailored to de-escalation training. This collaborative spirit was recently rewarded with an esteemed award, underscoring the impact of the NDTC's expertise.

The NDTC has made strategic appointments within its administrative team to sustain its growth and development. Dr. Tamara Lynn and Morgan Steele, distinguished faculty members at FHSU's Criminal Justice Program, now hold crucial positions within the NDTC, enhancing the organization's strength and expertise.

Since its inception, the NDTC has successfully trained over 1,000 law enforcement personnel across its seven-state region. Participants from California, Connecticut, Florida, Kentucky, and New York have also completed these indispensable training programs facilitated by trainers from FHSU.

The testimonials from officers who have completed NDTC courses speak volumes about the impact of de-escalation training. Numerous officers express gratitude for the knowledge they have gained, often noting how they wish they had acquired these valuable skills earlier in their careers. The de-escalation techniques taught by the NDTC have empowered officers to defuse potentially dangerous situations without resorting to force.

Looking ahead, the NDTC has ambitious plans to enhance its training programs further and expand its reach. A grant application has been submitted in collaboration with New York University to integrate Virtual Reality into the training curricula. This innovative step would provide officers with realistic scenarios to practice and refine their de-escalation skills.

Additionally, the NDTC is focused on improving officer encounters with autistic individuals. Dr. Lynn and her colleagues are seeking grants to fund a specialized training program tailored to these encounters' unique needs and challenges. Such initiatives demonstrate the NDTC's commitment to continuously advancing law enforcement practices.

In June 2024, FHSU and the NDTC will host an Evidence-based Policing Symposium in Denver, Colo. This symposium will bring together academics and practitioners to discuss effective strategies and policies in law enforcement, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.

The achievements of the NDTC, alongside FHSU's Criminal Justice Program, are a testament to the dedication and passion of the faculty and staff involved. By cultivating a culture of de-escalation and accountability, they are making a lasting impact on communities across the United States.

As our nation grapples with issues surrounding law enforcement and community relations, the work being done by the NDTC and the FHSU Criminal Justice Program offers a glimmer of hope. Through their emphasis on de-escalation techniques, they are helping pave the way toward a safer, more just future. With each training session, collaboration, and grant received, they are transforming law enforcement practices for the better.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentIn the aftermath of the tragic murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, the urgent need for effective de-escalation techniques within law enforcement became painfully clear. During this time, the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) emerged as a beacon of hope, providing comprehensive training programs to reduce use-of-force incidents and save lives.Dr. Tamara Lynn, Chair of the Criminal Justice Program at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), leads the charge. Driven by the desire to make a difference, she wasted no time in seeking information about joining the NDTC as a regional center. With FHSU's centralized location, the university became the ideal hub for coordinating training across the central United States.Dr. Lynn's vision extended beyond law enforcement careers to encompass diverse fields within the criminal justice system. She recognized the value of de-escalation training for students pursuing careers in corrections, probation and parole, juvenile services, and other roles where tensions can escalate rapidly.The goal is to equip current and future students with de-escalation techniques, ultimately reducing use-of-force incidents and the needless loss of life. Driven by a relentless passion, Dr. Lynn aims to make a difference, not only for her students and the criminal justice professionals they will become but also for communities nationwide.Today, the NDTC is making significant strides in its mission to provide essential de-escalation training to law enforcement agencies across the central United States. The Fort Hays State University Criminal Justice Program acts as the Region 2 headquarters for the NDTC, allowing for coordinated efforts in seven states: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Wyoming.The program offers a range of training modalities, ensuring that law enforcement officers receive the necessary skills to effectively de-escalate high-pressure situations. From face-to-face courses to online training, the NDTC leaves no stone unturned in its efforts to shape a culture of de-escalation within law enforcement agencies.The impact of the NDTC's work has not gone unnoticed. Recently, the program received two federal grants totaling $2.75 million to support its training initiatives. The community recognition and financial support prove the relevance and importance of the NDTC's mission.Collaboration has been another key driver of the NDTC's success. Through partnerships with agencies like the Tampa Bay Police Department, the program has secured grants specifically tailored to de-escalation training. This collaborative spirit was recently rewarded with an esteemed award, underscoring the impact of the NDTC's expertise.The NDTC has made strategic appointments within its administrative team to sustain its growth and development. Dr. Tamara Lynn and Morgan Steele, distinguished faculty members at FHSU's Criminal Justice Program, now hold crucial positions within the NDTC, enhancing the organization's strength and expertise.Since its inception, the NDTC has successfully trained over 1,000 law enforcement personnel across its seven-state region. Participants from California, Connecticut, Florida, Kentucky, and New York have also completed these indispensable training programs facilitated by trainers from FHSU.The testimonials from officers who have completed NDTC courses speak volumes about the impact of de-escalation training. Numerous officers express gratitude for the knowledge they have gained, often noting how they wish they had acquired these valuable skills earlier in their careers. The de-escalation techniques taught by the NDTC have empowered officers to defuse potentially dangerous situations without resorting to force.Looking ahead, the NDTC has ambitious plans to enhance its training programs further and expand its reach. A grant application has been submitted in collaboration with New York University to integrate Virtual Reality into the training curricula. This innovative step would provide officers with realistic scenarios to practice and refine their de-escalation skills.Additionally, the NDTC is focused on improving officer encounters with autistic individuals. Dr. Lynn and her colleagues are seeking grants to fund a specialized training program tailored to these encounters' unique needs and challenges. Such initiatives demonstrate the NDTC's commitment to continuously advancing law enforcement practices.In June 2024, FHSU and the NDTC will host an Evidence-based Policing Symposium in Denver, Colo. This symposium will bring together academics and practitioners to discuss effective strategies and policies in law enforcement, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.The achievements of the NDTC, alongside FHSU's Criminal Justice Program, are a testament to the dedication and passion of the faculty and staff involved. By cultivating a culture of de-escalation and accountability, they are making a lasting impact on communities across the United States.As our nation grapples with issues surrounding law enforcement and community relations, the work being done by the NDTC and the FHSU Criminal Justice Program offers a glimmer of hope. Through their emphasis on de-escalation techniques, they are helping pave the way toward a safer, more just future. With each training session, collaboration, and grant received, they are transforming law enforcement practices for the better.

Heart of a Tiger: Changing the way law enforcement manages potential conflicts

By Dolores Brown SAMARITAN'S PURSE

Generosity throughout&nbsp;Hays​​​​​​&nbsp;contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXp3xvLqtpe-2FApP8eJvZwjng7RPy04O4bpse-2BBgi9rJgGxG49fslNdk6Kzoi1ATGkcZxHIadF-2Fjl2s9CcU3umDMAfgU0yZsb2ujjr8nOmUzhWT9LcFMt11BGapMtk2OmV-2FGevE6jHpzHARbUQL1Pw2lKdpDwteh4UfuQfJ-2BXZvx5Hoh45fZuXqWHmg3Z0jBdG5djQXA7JMuktQfLqiVl6I2d-2FeP8B96qPsN9gUvNHZUcpgAn_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HNoxeMuaQDEOnzS2CGyWtwg2jMHgZEdF3Rwhz9sFJYvEh-2F47RKNEJElYJWgPd3pwr5nU-2FE-2BPMiI0F1QgCwxrt4Y82XPSRs8SZtlObXUzjPbJ5d0w8o5xfhBFyDb3TAggoXcPF-2BoyK5X3XxJxF4onbEI-3D">Operation Christmas Child</a>.&nbsp;Across the U.S., the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending over 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide,&nbsp;including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster.

Through shoeboxes—packed with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—Hays​​​​​&nbsp;area&nbsp;volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

Across&nbsp;KS​​​​​​,&nbsp;shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXp3xvLqtpe-2FApP8eJvZwjng7RPy04O4bpse-2BBgi9rJgGxG49fslNdk6Kzoi1ATGkcZxHIadF-2Fjl2s9CcU3umDMAfgU0yZsb2ujjr8nOmUzhWT9LcFMt11BGapMtk2OmV-2FGevE6jHpzHARbUQL1Pw2lKdpDwteh4UfuQfJ-2BXZvx5Hoh45fZuXqWHmg3Z0jBdG5djQXA7JMuktQfLqiVl6I2d-2FeP8B96qPsN9gUvNHZUc176y_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HIqyHvoFte8hdip5KHOS9n40Wf5vynC8PCXT8gh1b0PFy-2FT9PK6naIllK4Q6yqDtBSJH-2B3ICumUASbwjQtt7fVtMxcEKXUtptoYFFmIotryqumUv23qQvKciJWQNNv6AoYqH5xkHjcPfd3YOUnJHuis-3D">samaritanspurse.org/occ</a>&nbsp;or by calling 816-622-8316.&nbsp;

Although local drop‑off locations for shoebox gifts are closed until Nov. 18 – 25, 2024, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYETDhCe3dUJHzagzf9RMOYd7-2F5wYTRjIrMxtchaApTl6qXlc6s81BL1pfgfxf-2BX7AolEcf0uihIh8Vh4LZGzFlJEVOT9MPiS376atOqUY2PXTdqL1qCTzK5gUUqFJ8x6-2FdxDgFTJx4GME3HqUPg1sc7N-2BTcGon9wUYmeB8yA5-2BU-2BIEMbCBIh6FtAQkLyW2RJvfRvMrJhyonp5m2dLmHelut-2Fm-2F7OBz3U5SYyPAN5m6lkpeS_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HCbGeqwfTHUrYsQiWacXyAEsioo2ee-2F4LmUwAAJDVQh4-2BbsdFSZnVJsGMeG7aeFlYnFDS-2BunYf43rXIAFeFIKQ9-2FBKL-2F-2BQqBnRHo91joTGRrjcPYd8ow9F0G3kHXas4WLkmf1o7ckK3YzJJzANc14gw-3D">samaritanspurse.org/buildonline</a>.

These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582750752139.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dolores Brown SAMARITAN'S PURSEGenerosity throughout&nbsp;Hays​​​​​​&nbsp;contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXp3xvLqtpe-2FApP8eJvZwjng7RPy04O4bpse-2BBgi9rJgGxG49fslNdk6Kzoi1ATGkcZxHIadF-2Fjl2s9CcU3umDMAfgU0yZsb2ujjr8nOmUzhWT9LcFMt11BGapMtk2OmV-2FGevE6jHpzHARbUQL1Pw2lKdpDwteh4UfuQfJ-2BXZvx5Hoh45fZuXqWHmg3Z0jBdG5djQXA7JMuktQfLqiVl6I2d-2FeP8B96qPsN9gUvNHZUcpgAn_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HNoxeMuaQDEOnzS2CGyWtwg2jMHgZEdF3Rwhz9sFJYvEh-2F47RKNEJElYJWgPd3pwr5nU-2FE-2BPMiI0F1QgCwxrt4Y82XPSRs8SZtlObXUzjPbJ5d0w8o5xfhBFyDb3TAggoXcPF-2BoyK5X3XxJxF4onbEI-3D">Operation Christmas Child</a>.&nbsp;Across the U.S., the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending over 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide,&nbsp;including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster.Through shoeboxes—packed with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—Hays​​​​​&nbsp;area&nbsp;volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.Across&nbsp;KS​​​​​​,&nbsp;shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXp3xvLqtpe-2FApP8eJvZwjng7RPy04O4bpse-2BBgi9rJgGxG49fslNdk6Kzoi1ATGkcZxHIadF-2Fjl2s9CcU3umDMAfgU0yZsb2ujjr8nOmUzhWT9LcFMt11BGapMtk2OmV-2FGevE6jHpzHARbUQL1Pw2lKdpDwteh4UfuQfJ-2BXZvx5Hoh45fZuXqWHmg3Z0jBdG5djQXA7JMuktQfLqiVl6I2d-2FeP8B96qPsN9gUvNHZUc176y_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HIqyHvoFte8hdip5KHOS9n40Wf5vynC8PCXT8gh1b0PFy-2FT9PK6naIllK4Q6yqDtBSJH-2B3ICumUASbwjQtt7fVtMxcEKXUtptoYFFmIotryqumUv23qQvKciJWQNNv6AoYqH5xkHjcPfd3YOUnJHuis-3D">samaritanspurse.org/occ</a>&nbsp;or by calling 816-622-8316.&nbsp;Although local drop‑off locations for shoebox gifts are closed until Nov. 18 – 25, 2024, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYETDhCe3dUJHzagzf9RMOYd7-2F5wYTRjIrMxtchaApTl6qXlc6s81BL1pfgfxf-2BX7AolEcf0uihIh8Vh4LZGzFlJEVOT9MPiS376atOqUY2PXTdqL1qCTzK5gUUqFJ8x6-2FdxDgFTJx4GME3HqUPg1sc7N-2BTcGon9wUYmeB8yA5-2BU-2BIEMbCBIh6FtAQkLyW2RJvfRvMrJhyonp5m2dLmHelut-2Fm-2F7OBz3U5SYyPAN5m6lkpeS_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3Ije4rhriqtlP8sMCUjg-2Fzm039W-2BmqAZN2SWqd89lxobIQM5cIJGuwNiz2E1mX07fW9kjZ4m3Ndvyxqvrjv14USKLsDbego7uqS1g8xVvPax0r-2B2ZdNZB9dZI8HK6eQ0HCbGeqwfTHUrYsQiWacXyAEsioo2ee-2F4LmUwAAJDVQh4-2BbsdFSZnVJsGMeG7aeFlYnFDS-2BunYf43rXIAFeFIKQ9-2FBKL-2F-2BQqBnRHo91joTGRrjcPYd8ow9F0G3kHXas4WLkmf1o7ckK3YzJJzANc14gw-3D">samaritanspurse.org/buildonline</a>.These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

LETTER: Samaritan’s Purse announces another successful Operation Christmas Child 

Commercial as it is, Valentine’s Day reminds the two of us how many years we’ve loved one another. Despite hype designed to convince my sweetheart to fulfill romantic obligations with cut flowers, chocolates, scented candles, and bubble bath products, he ignored those messages a few years ago and gave me a gift that went crazy wild.

After decades of marriage, I’ve learned flower shops hold no power over my guy. He prefers multi-department businesses where he slowly cruises the sporting good section for most of a store visit. Once he’s checked out every fishing lure and all the hunting supplies, he camps out in the Valentine card section. Over time, he’s learned I’m a sucker for messages he actually reads. No generic I love you from this guy. He looks for a card that perfectly expresses his feelings--sometimes funny and sometimes sweet—just like him. Year after year, the man knocks it out of the park.

Typically, after wrapping up this shopping challenge, he zips past the cut flower case, snagging a bouquet on the go to carry home to his bride, and heads to check-out. If you haven’t figured it out, I most look forward to the envelope encased love note he’ll cleverly hide.

Due to bad weather a few years ago, he didn’t shop til Valentine’s Day. I desperately needed to visit the art supply aisle so he let me tag along, reminding me to keep my nose out of his business. Yeah, like the calendar date and days seeing hearty advertisements hadn’t clued me in.

Because of our late visit to the store, the bedraggled flower case looked bad sad, and so did my favorite guy when he couldn’t find a suitable arrangement. Keeping my nose out of his business, I’d lifted my winter mood earlier, buzzing through the garden area where I’d noticed a store display of 6-inch, gift wrapped pots filled with blooming kalanchoes. When he apologized for his lack of success in the bloom department, I said, “Hey, the garden section has great plants that will bloom longer than any cut flower you could buy.”

In no time, we headed home with a fishing lure or two and a blossoming, warmth-loving succulent covered in a plastic bag to protect it from Kansas elements. It reigned in our living room until garden season arrived, and we could move it outdoors.

After a month or so absorbing unadulterated sunshine, that baby needed a bigger pot to sustain its flourishing greenery and delicate orange/red blossoms. I transplanted it to a much larger container, thinking it would take a while to grow into it. Ha, it overtook its new home in a flash, and has sunbathed this winter in front of our living room window. New shoots and emerging blossoms indicate it intends to serve another year as the best Valentine flower ever.

As we slip up on another Valentine’s Day, guess what? This holiday, I don’t want flowers. I want a huge planter to accompany the card I look forward to every year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Commercial as it is, Valentine’s Day reminds the two of us how many years we’ve loved one another. Despite hype designed to convince my sweetheart to fulfill romantic obligations with cut flowers, chocolates, scented candles, and bubble bath products, he ignored those messages a few years ago and gave me a gift that went crazy wild.After decades of marriage, I’ve learned flower shops hold no power over my guy. He prefers multi-department businesses where he slowly cruises the sporting good section for most of a store visit. Once he’s checked out every fishing lure and all the hunting supplies, he camps out in the Valentine card section. Over time, he’s learned I’m a sucker for messages he actually reads. No generic I love you from this guy. He looks for a card that perfectly expresses his feelings--sometimes funny and sometimes sweet—just like him. Year after year, the man knocks it out of the park.Typically, after wrapping up this shopping challenge, he zips past the cut flower case, snagging a bouquet on the go to carry home to his bride, and heads to check-out. If you haven’t figured it out, I most look forward to the envelope encased love note he’ll cleverly hide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706310576245.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Due to bad weather a few years ago, he didn’t shop til Valentine’s Day. I desperately needed to visit the art supply aisle so he let me tag along, reminding me to keep my nose out of his business. Yeah, like the calendar date and days seeing hearty advertisements hadn’t clued me in.Because of our late visit to the store, the bedraggled flower case looked bad sad, and so did my favorite guy when he couldn’t find a suitable arrangement. Keeping my nose out of his business, I’d lifted my winter mood earlier, buzzing through the garden area where I’d noticed a store display of 6-inch, gift wrapped pots filled with blooming kalanchoes. When he apologized for his lack of success in the bloom department, I said, “Hey, the garden section has great plants that will bloom longer than any cut flower you could buy.”In no time, we headed home with a fishing lure or two and a blossoming, warmth-loving succulent covered in a plastic bag to protect it from Kansas elements. It reigned in our living room until garden season arrived, and we could move it outdoors.After a month or so absorbing unadulterated sunshine, that baby needed a bigger pot to sustain its flourishing greenery and delicate orange/red blossoms. I transplanted it to a much larger container, thinking it would take a while to grow into it. Ha, it overtook its new home in a flash, and has sunbathed this winter in front of our living room window. New shoots and emerging blossoms indicate it intends to serve another year as the best Valentine flower ever.As we slip up on another Valentine’s Day, guess what? This holiday, I don’t want flowers. I want a huge planter to accompany the card I look forward to every year.

MADORIN: Valentine Gone Wild

Thank you to the people from the 40th Senate District for attending the annual March for Life held on the south steps of the state capitol. Remarks were made celebrating the success of the last session. These remarks included Born Alive Protection Act, Women’s Right to Know Act, Alternatives to Abortion Program and Safe Haven Baby Boxes. This session the Kansas legislature will continue to work on the dignity of life and supporting mothers and babies.

As expected, Governor Kelly vetoed the single rate tax plan that included reduction in property tax, sales tax, and income tax on social security. In Governor Kelly’s veto message, she claimed this would wreck the budget. She claims this tax was an experiment. However, when we check income taxes in other states there are already eleven states with a similar flat rate tax policy, including two of our neighboring states Nebraska, and Colorado. Colorado’s Democratic governor has endorsed a bill in the Colorado legislature that will drop their current flat rate of 4.4% to 4%.

Our budget committee continues to work on subcommittee budgets and has had numerous report outs to the full committee last Wednesday and Friday.

A meeting was held with retired U.S. Senator Pat Roberts regarding the opioid and fentanyl additions in the United States. Senator Roberts reported that 200 Americans die from fentanyl and opioid drugs every day. Kansas currently ranks second in the nation per capita in deaths from these deadly drugs. Senator Roberts' group is looking for funding to provide four beds for fentanyl and opioid detoxification. These beds will be located at the Valley Hope facility located in Atchison, Kansas. We will be working to find additional funding to pay for this important program. Any schools interested in having a program presented to your students can contact the KBI director Tony Mattivi or his staff to set up a presentation informing our students of these deadly drugs.

The legislature continues to encourage and ask Governor Kelly to be proactive in trying to stop the drugs and human trafficking from entering the United States and the state of Kansas illegally.

My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12th, February 19th, and March 11th. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.

It has been an honor to represent the 40th Senate District of Kansas. I have been asked if I plan to run for reelection. Yes, I do plan to file for reelection for the 40th Senate district. I feel there are many issues I can still work on to make a better Kansas.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns. My email is: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office, room 545-S.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675701343257.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Thank you to the people from the 40th Senate District for attending the annual March for Life held on the south steps of the state capitol. Remarks were made celebrating the success of the last session. These remarks included Born Alive Protection Act, Women’s Right to Know Act, Alternatives to Abortion Program and Safe Haven Baby Boxes. This session the Kansas legislature will continue to work on the dignity of life and supporting mothers and babies.As expected, Governor Kelly vetoed the single rate tax plan that included reduction in property tax, sales tax, and income tax on social security. In Governor Kelly’s veto message, she claimed this would wreck the budget. She claims this tax was an experiment. However, when we check income taxes in other states there are already eleven states with a similar flat rate tax policy, including two of our neighboring states Nebraska, and Colorado. Colorado’s Democratic governor has endorsed a bill in the Colorado legislature that will drop their current flat rate of 4.4% to 4%.Our budget committee continues to work on subcommittee budgets and has had numerous report outs to the full committee last Wednesday and Friday.A meeting was held with retired U.S. Senator Pat Roberts regarding the opioid and fentanyl additions in the United States. Senator Roberts reported that 200 Americans die from fentanyl and opioid drugs every day. Kansas currently ranks second in the nation per capita in deaths from these deadly drugs. Senator Roberts' group is looking for funding to provide four beds for fentanyl and opioid detoxification. These beds will be located at the Valley Hope facility located in Atchison, Kansas. We will be working to find additional funding to pay for this important program. Any schools interested in having a program presented to your students can contact the KBI director Tony Mattivi or his staff to set up a presentation informing our students of these deadly drugs.The legislature continues to encourage and ask Governor Kelly to be proactive in trying to stop the drugs and human trafficking from entering the United States and the state of Kansas illegally.My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12th, February 19th, and March 11th. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.It has been an honor to represent the 40th Senate District of Kansas. I have been asked if I plan to run for reelection. Yes, I do plan to file for reelection for the 40th Senate district. I feel there are many issues I can still work on to make a better Kansas.Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns. My email is: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office, room 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Jan. 29

2024 Senate Scene Week 3&nbsp; Topeka

This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. The Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks. Hearings on bills in committees are continuing with the Senate returning to General Orders where we will see the first committee bills to have a vote from the entire Senate.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, hundreds of Kansans came out on a cold day for the annual March and Rally for Life at the Statehouse. On January 22, 1974, the first MARCH FOR LIFE was held on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol. An estimated 20,000 committed prolife Americans rallied this day with attendance numbers rising every year. In addition to the March and Rally, events include workshops, pro-life educational booths, capitol tours, visiting legislators, and attending general legislative sessions and committees.&nbsp;

In off-legislative session during the summer, the Senate Confirmation Committee holds hearings for individuals brought forward by the governor for appointments to agency heads and other positions in state government. On Thursday, the Senate confirmed the following appointments:&nbsp;

Nicholas Jaskolski Brigadier General, Kansas National Guard Col.&nbsp;

Annie Kuether, Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;

Dawn McClure, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;

Pam Pierce, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;

Alan Deines, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;

Jon Small, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;

Catherine Moyer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Vicki Ryan, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Kenneth (Ed) Trimmer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Mike Fleming, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission

Larry Turnquist, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission&nbsp;

Emily Bowersock-Hill, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;

Brad Stratton, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;

Patty Becker, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;

Craig Heideman, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;

Joni Franklin, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;

Keely Schneider, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;

Justin Nichols, State Banking Board&nbsp;

Michelle Ewert, State Board of Indigents' Defense Services&nbsp;

Romano Delcore, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;

Elizabeth Henderson King, University of Kansas Hospital Authority

 Kevin Lockett, University of Kansas Hospital Authority

 Robba Moran, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;

Alysia Johnston, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;

Neelima Parasker, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;

Calvin Reed Secretary, Kansas Department of Transportation&nbsp;

Erik Smith Superintendent, Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;

KANSAS DAY and Senate District #36&nbsp;

January 29th of 2024 marked the 163rd anniversary of President James Buchanan signing a bill to make Kansas the 34th state of the United States of America. Kansas is named for the Kansa, the Algonquian word for the Kaw. Kansas is full of rich history, beautiful scenes of nature, and notable landmarks. 

In Kansas Senate District 36, we have remarkable landmarks such as memorial to Pony Express Riders in Marshall County, the Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, Rock City outside of Minneapolis, and the “Home on the Range Cabin” in Smith County, birthplace of our state song. “Home on the Range” was adopted by the Kansas State Legislature as the official state song on June 30, 1947. Along with our state song, Kansas has not one, but TWO official state marches, “The Kansas March” and “Here’s Kansas.” 

But while the marches are grand, nothing brings as much pride into the hearts of the residents of the Sunflower State as that of seeing our great flag dancing in the breeze. The flag was designed by Hazel Avery of Lincoln County in 1925. Directly in the center on the field of blue is the Great Seal of the State of Kansas with our motto arching near the top: “Ad Astra Per Aspera” to the stars through difficulties. The flag was modified in 1961 by a bill introduced by Senator Ross Doyen of Concordia to add the word “KANSAS.”&nbsp;

VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF KANSAS - <a href="http://www.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">www.kansas.gov</a>&nbsp;

You can find a wealth of information at this well-designed website which focuses on Kansas with topics of business, education, government, residents, and services with links to agencies and staff to help answer any question you might have. Webfile will take you directly to the Department of Revenue to file your taxes; Form finder will take you to the Secretary of State’s office for all types of forms for businesses; Learning Quest will direct you to the State Treasurer’s Office; the three branches of government; and Plan your Trip to Kansas will open to the Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp;

TOLL-FREE LEGISLATIVE HOTLINE&nbsp;

Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues, and more by calling 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State Library of Kansas and kept confidential. Lines are open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents. Questions can also be left at <a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> on weekends and evenings. Kansans can now chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask A Librarian service found at kslib.info/ask . You will have the option of installing a mobile app connecting users to all the State Library’s services, including chat, texting, and email. Text questions to 785-256-0733. The State Library is located on the 3rd floor, north wing of the Capitol.&nbsp;

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a> <a href="http://www.elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">www.elainebowers.com</a>&nbsp;

Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:

* Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington Counties* Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville* Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644853578448.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>2024 Senate Scene Week 3&nbsp; TopekaSENATE HAPPENINGS&nbsp;This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. The Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks. Hearings on bills in committees are continuing with the Senate returning to General Orders where we will see the first committee bills to have a vote from the entire Senate.&nbsp;MARCH AND RALLY FOR LIFE Earlier this week, hundreds of Kansans came out on a cold day for the annual March and Rally for Life at the Statehouse. On January 22, 1974, the first MARCH FOR LIFE was held on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol. An estimated 20,000 committed prolife Americans rallied this day with attendance numbers rising every year. In addition to the March and Rally, events include workshops, pro-life educational booths, capitol tours, visiting legislators, and attending general legislative sessions and committees.&nbsp;CONFIRMATIONS BY THE SENATE&nbsp;In off-legislative session during the summer, the Senate Confirmation Committee holds hearings for individuals brought forward by the governor for appointments to agency heads and other positions in state government. On Thursday, the Senate confirmed the following appointments:&nbsp;Appointment Position&nbsp;Nicholas Jaskolski Brigadier General, Kansas National Guard Col.&nbsp;Annie Kuether, Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;Dawn McClure, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;Pam Pierce, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;Alan Deines, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;Jon Small, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;Catherine Moyer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Vicki Ryan, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Kenneth (Ed) Trimmer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Mike Fleming, Kansas Racing and Gaming CommissionLarry Turnquist, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission&nbsp;Emily Bowersock-Hill, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;Brad Stratton, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;Patty Becker, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;Craig Heideman, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;Joni Franklin, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;Keely Schneider, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;Justin Nichols, State Banking Board&nbsp;Michelle Ewert, State Board of Indigents' Defense Services&nbsp;Romano Delcore, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;Elizabeth Henderson King, University of Kansas Hospital Authority Kevin Lockett, University of Kansas Hospital Authority Robba Moran, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;Alysia Johnston, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;Neelima Parasker, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;Calvin Reed Secretary, Kansas Department of Transportation&nbsp;Erik Smith Superintendent, Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;KANSAS DAY and Senate District #36&nbsp;January 29th of 2024 marked the 163rd anniversary of President James Buchanan signing a bill to make Kansas the 34th state of the United States of America. Kansas is named for the Kansa, the Algonquian word for the Kaw. Kansas is full of rich history, beautiful scenes of nature, and notable landmarks. In Kansas Senate District 36, we have remarkable landmarks such as memorial to Pony Express Riders in Marshall County, the Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, Rock City outside of Minneapolis, and the “Home on the Range Cabin” in Smith County, birthplace of our state song. “Home on the Range” was adopted by the Kansas State Legislature as the official state song on June 30, 1947. Along with our state song, Kansas has not one, but TWO official state marches, “The Kansas March” and “Here’s Kansas.” But while the marches are grand, nothing brings as much pride into the hearts of the residents of the Sunflower State as that of seeing our great flag dancing in the breeze. The flag was designed by Hazel Avery of Lincoln County in 1925. Directly in the center on the field of blue is the Great Seal of the State of Kansas with our motto arching near the top: “Ad Astra Per Aspera” to the stars through difficulties. The flag was modified in 1961 by a bill introduced by Senator Ross Doyen of Concordia to add the word “KANSAS.”&nbsp;VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF KANSAS - <a href="http://www.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">www.kansas.gov</a>&nbsp;You can find a wealth of information at this well-designed website which focuses on Kansas with topics of business, education, government, residents, and services with links to agencies and staff to help answer any question you might have. Webfile will take you directly to the Department of Revenue to file your taxes; Form finder will take you to the Secretary of State’s office for all types of forms for businesses; Learning Quest will direct you to the State Treasurer’s Office; the three branches of government; and Plan your Trip to Kansas will open to the Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp;TOLL-FREE LEGISLATIVE HOTLINE&nbsp;Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues, and more by calling 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State Library of Kansas and kept confidential. Lines are open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents. Questions can also be left at <a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> on weekends and evenings. Kansans can now chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask A Librarian service found at kslib.info/ask . You will have the option of installing a mobile app connecting users to all the State Library’s services, including chat, texting, and email. Text questions to 785-256-0733. The State Library is located on the 3rd floor, north wing of the Capitol.&nbsp;Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a> <a href="http://www.elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">www.elainebowers.com</a>&nbsp;Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:* Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington Counties* Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville* Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

BOWERS: Senate Scene Week 3 

This week is the third week of the 2024 legislative session and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:

House Bill 2564 would establish a farm-to-food bank program that would expand Kansas agricultural food products to be used for the Kansas’ emergency food system. This bill would expand the availability of nutritious, locally grown, raised, or produced foods to be spread throughout the state of Kansas by requiring the program to use 75% of appropriated funds to acquire and distribute Kansas agriculture food products to every county of the state.

House Bill 2562 would protect vulnerable adults from being financially exploited by requiring reporting of any suspected exploitations and providing civil and administrative immunity to individuals who report that reasonably suspect financial exploitation has occurred, been attempted, or is being attempted.

House Bill 2168 would allow the use of fiber, grain, and seeds of industrial hemp for feeding livestock, poultry and pets. The bill would also relax current regulations on industrialized hemp, reduce license and registration fees while extending the license and registration period, and exempt certain providers from fingerprinting and background check requirements.

House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence, also referred to as “EMERGE,” program and the program’s repayment fund. This is a bill that I have co-sponsored.

House Bill 2548 is also referred to as the “No Patient Left Alone Act" and requires hospitals, adult care homes, and hospice facilities to allow in-person visitations and authorizes these types of facilities to adopt visitation policies and procedures.

These are a handful of bills introduced and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee.

The House Appropriations Committee began its work on the Kansas state budget this week. We began the process of having budgets reported from the budget committees to the Appropriations Committee. Recommendations were heard regarding eleven agency budgets for the state budget.

The committee also had an informational hearing presented by Secretary Calvin Reed with the Kansas Department of Transportation. He updated us on the IKE Transportation Plan and the Build Kansas Program that was created during last session. We also conducted four bill hearings throughout the week.

House Bill 2468 – Disaster Recovery Bill

On Wednesday, January 24, the House Appropriations Committee conducted a hearing on the bill that I introduced last session on how the state plans and recovers from a natural weather-related disaster. This bill derives from the lax response from the state of Kansas after the devastating Four-County fire on December 15, 2021. After the events of this wildfire, the governor placed me on the Governor’s Wildfire Taskforce.

While serving on the Wildfire Taskforce and listening to the members of the taskforce in Crisis City, Kansas, I began crafting House Bill 2468. House Bill 2468 establishes a structured disaster response, for all disasters, not only wildfires, and has a single-point of contact with the Adjutant General and Kansas Department of Emergency Management. House Bill 2468 would create a systematic process of contacting other state agencies that may be utilized before, during, and after the disaster event. This bill also creates a Disaster Contingency Fund that local communities, affected by a natural disaster, can utilize to match federal dollars. Here is a link to an article that was posted this week: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c02073f7-0058-4f2e-bd04-4e14bb16d3ed">Rep. Waymaster: State needs structured response to wildfire, other natural disasters</a> (hayspost.com)

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621346439026.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>January 26, 2024 Topeka<h2>Bills Introduced</h2>This week is the third week of the 2024 legislative session and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:House Bill 2564 would establish a farm-to-food bank program that would expand Kansas agricultural food products to be used for the Kansas’ emergency food system. This bill would expand the availability of nutritious, locally grown, raised, or produced foods to be spread throughout the state of Kansas by requiring the program to use 75% of appropriated funds to acquire and distribute Kansas agriculture food products to every county of the state.House Bill 2562 would protect vulnerable adults from being financially exploited by requiring reporting of any suspected exploitations and providing civil and administrative immunity to individuals who report that reasonably suspect financial exploitation has occurred, been attempted, or is being attempted.House Bill 2168 would allow the use of fiber, grain, and seeds of industrial hemp for feeding livestock, poultry and pets. The bill would also relax current regulations on industrialized hemp, reduce license and registration fees while extending the license and registration period, and exempt certain providers from fingerprinting and background check requirements.House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence, also referred to as “EMERGE,” program and the program’s repayment fund. This is a bill that I have co-sponsored.House Bill 2548 is also referred to as the “No Patient Left Alone Act" and requires hospitals, adult care homes, and hospice facilities to allow in-person visitations and authorizes these types of facilities to adopt visitation policies and procedures.These are a handful of bills introduced and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee.<h2>Appropriations Committee</h2>The House Appropriations Committee began its work on the Kansas state budget this week. We began the process of having budgets reported from the budget committees to the Appropriations Committee. Recommendations were heard regarding eleven agency budgets for the state budget.The committee also had an informational hearing presented by Secretary Calvin Reed with the Kansas Department of Transportation. He updated us on the IKE Transportation Plan and the Build Kansas Program that was created during last session. We also conducted four bill hearings throughout the week.<h2>House Bill 2468 – Disaster Recovery Bill</h2>On Wednesday, January 24, the House Appropriations Committee conducted a hearing on the bill that I introduced last session on how the state plans and recovers from a natural weather-related disaster. This bill derives from the lax response from the state of Kansas after the devastating Four-County fire on December 15, 2021. After the events of this wildfire, the governor placed me on the Governor’s Wildfire Taskforce.While serving on the Wildfire Taskforce and listening to the members of the taskforce in Crisis City, Kansas, I began crafting House Bill 2468. House Bill 2468 establishes a structured disaster response, for all disasters, not only wildfires, and has a single-point of contact with the Adjutant General and Kansas Department of Emergency Management. House Bill 2468 would create a systematic process of contacting other state agencies that may be utilized before, during, and after the disaster event. This bill also creates a Disaster Contingency Fund that local communities, affected by a natural disaster, can utilize to match federal dollars. Here is a link to an article that was posted this week: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c02073f7-0058-4f2e-bd04-4e14bb16d3ed">Rep. Waymaster: State needs structured response to wildfire, other natural disasters</a> (hayspost.com)<h2>Contact Information</h2>Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Jan. 26

This past Monday, I attended my first USD 489 school board meeting. First, let me say, I have incredible respect and admiration for the USD 489 teachers. They are tasked with educating the youngest of our community and their influence has the potential to last a lifetime.

Prior to the Jan. 22 board meeting, I sent a respectful letter to each school board member, explaining my genuine concerns and ensuring they would not be blindsided by my public statements and inquiry.

Last July, the school board approved the new district calendar for the 2023-24 school year, which replaced traditional, half-day teacher in-services with nine, “full-day” in-services. These newly designed in-service periods occur on the first or second Monday of the month for every month of the school year. Such “full-day” in-service periods, consequently, result in “days off” for the students in the community. The previous, “half-day” in-services allowed students to attend class until roughly 1 p.m. Those who had no after-school care options could remain at school for a minimal cost. This structure allowed their parents to continue working on those in-service days. This year, the administration and school board decided it would be better to give students entire days off for their newly-crafted in-services. My concern is for the young families who do not have afterschool care options.

This past Monday, I attended my first USD 489 school board meeting. First, let me say, I have incredible respect and admiration for the USD 489 teachers. They are tasked with educating the youngest of our community and their influence has the potential to last a lifetime.Prior to the Jan. 22 board meeting, I sent a respectful letter to each school board member, explaining my genuine concerns and ensuring they would not be blindsided by my public statements and inquiry.Last July, the school board approved the new district calendar for the 2023-24 school year, which replaced traditional, half-day teacher in-services with nine, “full-day” in-services. These newly designed in-service periods occur on the first or second Monday of the month for every month of the school year. Such “full-day” in-service periods, consequently, result in “days off” for the students in the community. The previous, “half-day” in-services allowed students to attend class until roughly 1 p.m. Those who had no after-school care options could remain at school for a minimal cost. This structure allowed their parents to continue working on those in-service days. This year, the administration and school board decided it would be better to give students entire days off for their newly-crafted in-services. My concern is for the young families who do not have afterschool care options.This new calendar change has caused parents to miss work, and, consequently, miss income. Those parents who do choose to work run the risk of leaving their children unsupervised at home, not to mention, students in the greatest need miss their free/reduced-cost breakfast and lunch on those days. Do I dare pose the question: “What are the high school students who are out of school doing during such days with limited-to-no supervision?” Would the district administrators and teachers themselves allow for such limited supervision in their own classrooms/buildings for more than a single minute? I doubt that is a risk they would be willing to take. ...After my brief three minutes speaking to the school board, no response was given or explanation for the change from half days to full days. Those who live in Hays know that affordable day care, and most communities across the country, is almost nonexistent. Any time a young family has a child out of the traditional school hours, it is very disruptive to the parents who are working.So, let’s add up the time in the school calendar year that the children are not in school:· USD 489 calendar for 2023-24 has 196 available school days (i.e., 8/16/23 - 5/16/24).· During that period, there are 23 full days and two half days off for various holidays (i.e., fall/spring/winter breaks, MLK day, Labor Day, etc.)· This year there are an additional nine Mondays off for teacher in-service days for “collaborative planning.”· This sums to roughly 33 total days that our children are not being educated in the classroom during this calendar school year. To state another way, that equates to 17 percent of the available school days students are not in the classroom.Are all these breaks essential for learning? What metrics did the administration and the school board use to decide on this additional time out of the classroom? Do they have similar metrics to show the benefits of this schedule? Since the students are missing so much time on those Mondays, are the in-service agenda(s) available to the public?Was there no other way this in-service time could be done and still allow students to remain in school?It is no secret that since COVID, students across the country have began to lag behind and underperform compared to previous years. So why did the administration and school board approve nine additional days of no school for our children, while, simultaneously, causing additional disruptions in the workplace? I believe they were working on the 2024-25 calendar. … Does this calendar follow the same Mondays off? Has the administration and school board considered the hardship this is causing those parents who have no afterschool care? Has the school considered the economic impact local businesses feel with a shortage of work staff on such in-service days on Mondays?It is my hope that the school board will put this on the agenda for the next meeting, Feb. 5, 2023. I plan on attending. Feel free to join me as a concerned parent. I hope they will publicly answer some of these questions.&nbsp;Don Tillman

Opinion