After decades of decline, fatal traffic crashes increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; 

Today’s traffic deaths are falling harder and harder on bicyclists and pedestrians.&nbsp; In Kansas, pedestrian deaths&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/GHSA%20-%20Pedestrian%20Traffic%20Fatalities%20by%20State%2C%202022%20Preliminary%20Data%20%28January-December%29.pdf" target="_blank">increased 261%, from 18 in 2019 to 47 in 2021</a>, according to the National Governors’ Association.&nbsp; Nationally, those numbers increased 77% during the same time period, from 6272 to 7274.&nbsp;

The 2020 infrastructure bill passed by the Kansas Legislature includes safety along with economic growth as priorities, and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davis recently announced a $1.28 million grant coming to the state’s Third District to improve roadway safety.

This differs remarkably from previous crackdowns on auto safety.&nbsp; U.S. traffic fatalities hit a high in 1972 and began dropping.&nbsp; Just before that, a host of federal laws had mandated safety features including seatbelts, high backed seats, and collapsible steering columns.&nbsp; Also, consumer safety advocate Ralph Nader and his team of lawyers targeted auto companies marketing cars with known safety flaws, including the Chevrolet Corvair and Ford Pinto.

&nbsp;In the 1980s, the focus shifted to drivers.&nbsp; Candace Lightner founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in 1980, after her daughter was killed by a repeat drunk driver. MADD and its allies successfully advocated a host of federal and state laws targeting this behavior, and they are still at it today.&nbsp; 

The 80s also saw seatbelt laws and changing social norms regarding buckling up– earlier, seatbelts were required, but few drivers or passengers used them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cars have also continued getting safer for the occupants, with energy-absorbing materials and crumple zones becoming universal.&nbsp; Yet these features do nothing to protect those&nbsp;outside&nbsp;the car– pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.&nbsp; They may even make drivers become overconfident, more likely to speed and drive inattentively, and more dangerous to those outside the car.

A host of new safety ideas have been circulated, including renewed crackdowns on DUIs and reckless driving, both of which increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside these proposals, today’s safety advocates propose a host of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/6-road-design-changes-can-save-lives" target="_blank">changes to make roads themselves safer</a>.&nbsp; All of us who truly enjoy driving should warmly welcome these ideas.

Today’s pedestrian-unfriendly roadways consist largely of suburban streets that have been turned into straight, flat speedways where drivers race along at speeds approaching those on the freeway, often distracted by their phones.&nbsp;This mix of high speeds, heavier vehicles, and distracted driving terrorizes pedestrians and bicyclists.   

<a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/6-road-design-changes-can-save-lives" target="_blank">Proposed ideas</a>&nbsp;include shorter blocks, pedestrian refuge areas, increased use of traffic circles, narrower roads, dedicated bicycle lanes, and&nbsp;chicanes– those s-shaped curves also used on racetracks.&nbsp; Money from the bipartisan 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act is available to help fund these improvements.

I have appreciated cars and driving since childhood.&nbsp; My grandfather ran one of those old-fashioned gas stations in downtown Lawrence–the ones where you could get your car fixed.&nbsp; I grew up hearing car stories, reading car magazines, and attending car races with my dad. &nbsp; Every chance I get, I still exit the interstate and seek out the back roads– a “blue highway” driver.&nbsp;

Mindlessly, distractedly operating a vehicle on a flat, straight, suburban superspeedway is the antithesis of real driving.&nbsp; Real drivers open our windows, sunroofs, and convertible tops on nice days and shift our own gears.&nbsp; We speed up, slow down, and negotiate curves, all the while staying connected to our surroundings.

For the true driving enthusiast, better roadways cannot come fast enough. No more mindless driving– we need roads that keep us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/12365/zen-driving-by-kt-berger/" target="_blank">wide awake and firmly connected to our car, road, and surroundings</a>.&nbsp; No matter what you drive, better roads can help us do that.&nbsp; Let’s get to work.

Michael Smith is a professor of Political Science and chair of Social Sciences&nbsp;at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>After decades of decline, fatal traffic crashes increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; Today’s traffic deaths are falling harder and harder on bicyclists and pedestrians.&nbsp; In Kansas, pedestrian deaths&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/GHSA%20-%20Pedestrian%20Traffic%20Fatalities%20by%20State%2C%202022%20Preliminary%20Data%20%28January-December%29.pdf" target="_blank">increased 261%, from 18 in 2019 to 47 in 2021</a>, according to the National Governors’ Association.&nbsp; Nationally, those numbers increased 77% during the same time period, from 6272 to 7274.&nbsp; The 2020 infrastructure bill passed by the Kansas Legislature includes safety along with economic growth as priorities, and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davis recently announced a $1.28 million grant coming to the state’s Third District to improve roadway safety.This differs remarkably from previous crackdowns on auto safety.&nbsp; U.S. traffic fatalities hit a high in 1972 and began dropping.&nbsp; Just before that, a host of federal laws had mandated safety features including seatbelts, high backed seats, and collapsible steering columns.&nbsp; Also, consumer safety advocate Ralph Nader and his team of lawyers targeted auto companies marketing cars with known safety flaws, including the Chevrolet Corvair and Ford Pinto.&nbsp;In the 1980s, the focus shifted to drivers.&nbsp; Candace Lightner founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in 1980, after her daughter was killed by a repeat drunk driver. MADD and its allies successfully advocated a host of federal and state laws targeting this behavior, and they are still at it today.&nbsp; The 80s also saw seatbelt laws and changing social norms regarding buckling up– earlier, seatbelts were required, but few drivers or passengers used them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cars have also continued getting safer for the occupants, with energy-absorbing materials and crumple zones becoming universal.&nbsp; Yet these features do nothing to protect those&nbsp;outside&nbsp;the car– pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.&nbsp; They may even make drivers become overconfident, more likely to speed and drive inattentively, and more dangerous to those outside the car.A host of new safety ideas have been circulated, including renewed crackdowns on DUIs and reckless driving, both of which increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside these proposals, today’s safety advocates propose a host of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/6-road-design-changes-can-save-lives" target="_blank">changes to make roads themselves safer</a>.&nbsp; All of us who truly enjoy driving should warmly welcome these ideas.Today’s pedestrian-unfriendly roadways consist largely of suburban streets that have been turned into straight, flat speedways where drivers race along at speeds approaching those on the freeway, often distracted by their phones.&nbsp;This mix of high speeds, heavier vehicles, and distracted driving terrorizes pedestrians and bicyclists. <a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/6-road-design-changes-can-save-lives" target="_blank">Proposed ideas</a>&nbsp;include shorter blocks, pedestrian refuge areas, increased use of traffic circles, narrower roads, dedicated bicycle lanes, and&nbsp;chicanes– those s-shaped curves also used on racetracks.&nbsp; Money from the bipartisan 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act is available to help fund these improvements.I have appreciated cars and driving since childhood.&nbsp; My grandfather ran one of those old-fashioned gas stations in downtown Lawrence–the ones where you could get your car fixed.&nbsp; I grew up hearing car stories, reading car magazines, and attending car races with my dad. &nbsp; Every chance I get, I still exit the interstate and seek out the back roads– a “blue highway” driver.&nbsp;Mindlessly, distractedly operating a vehicle on a flat, straight, suburban superspeedway is the antithesis of real driving.&nbsp; Real drivers open our windows, sunroofs, and convertible tops on nice days and shift our own gears.&nbsp; We speed up, slow down, and negotiate curves, all the while staying connected to our surroundings.For the true driving enthusiast, better roadways cannot come fast enough. No more mindless driving– we need roads that keep us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/12365/zen-driving-by-kt-berger/" target="_blank">wide awake and firmly connected to our car, road, and surroundings</a>.&nbsp; No matter what you drive, better roads can help us do that.&nbsp; Let’s get to work.Michael Smith is a professor of Political Science and chair of Social Sciences&nbsp;at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansans need safer, more fun roads

One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. 

When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. 

Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. 

The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for older adults. 

Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60.

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.

You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and no special clothes or equipment are needed. 

We will have weights available if you want to use them. 

You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.

If you would like more information before signing up, I will hold an orientation class which will introduce the program and exercises. The orientation class will be Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at our office in Hays, located at 601 Main Street, in the back meeting room.

Regular classes will begin August 29, 2023 and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays. 

There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu

Cottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. 

This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes more often.

Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!

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="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for older adults. No one is too inactive to participate. Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691425639307.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and no special clothes or equipment are needed. We will have weights available if you want to use them. You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.If you would like more information before signing up, I will hold an orientation class which will introduce the program and exercises. The orientation class will be Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at our office in Hays, located at 601 Main Street, in the back meeting room.Regular classes will begin August 29, 2023 and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.eduCottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes more often.Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!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: Stay strong, stay healthy

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Experts blame hot weather, along with high oil prices for the recent spike in gasoline and diesel prices. Refineries must scale back operations when the temperature tops 95 degrees, so operations are dramatically lower nationwide.

The auto club AAA pegs national gasoline prices at their highest since November, an average of $3.82 per gallon, up seven cents from a week ago, and nearly thirty cents higher than a month ago. The average across Kansas is up 40 cents in the last month to $3.65 per gallon. Friday's Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes dropped by four oil rigs for a total of 659 active rigs nationwide. Horizontal drilling was down by seven rigs. Drilling in the Permian Basin was down five rigs. The state breakouts show Texas down eight rigs while New Mexico was up two. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged statewide, but up two in the western half of the state.&nbsp; With 39 rigs drilling or about to, the tally is down nearly five percent from a week ago, and down 32% from a year go. Kansas regulators okayed 18 new drilling locations last week, with eight new permits in western Kansas. That's 762 new locations statewide so far this year, compared to 967 a year ago at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators in Kansas completed 37 new wells last week with 12 in western Kansas including one well in Russell County. Colorado is once again changing the rules in the patch. Experts say these changes could spread.

The state will for the first time require the direct measurement of methane pollution at oil and gas wells. Supporters say the new rule improves an existing system built largely on guesswork and paperwork. Under recent legislation, emissions from the oil and gas industry must be cut 20% in seven years.&nbsp; A state commission will set up the new measurement methods and require transparency by operators. 

The state's two major industry trade groups support the rule, which they said will bring on a sound regulatory framework to verify greenhouse gas emissions. Saudi Arabia extended its unilateral oil production cut by another month and said it could be prolonged again or even increased. The cutback of one million barrels per day was launched last month, and will now last into September, according to a statement Thursday on state Saudi Press Agency. Bloomberg reports that will hold output from the world's largest crude exporter to about nine million barrels per day, the lowest level in several years. &nbsp; Operators spudded 14 oil and gas wells last week in Kansas, 711 new wells so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that's down from 942 wells a year ago at this time. Total footage drilled is down 28% from last year. The government reports the biggest weekly drop in U.S. crude inventories in recent memory. The Energy Information Administration reports total stockpiles of 439.8 million barrels as of July 28th. That's down 17 million barrels from a week earlier. Inventories are about one percent below the five-year average for this time of year according to the Energy Information Administration. U.S. operators pumped nearly 12.2 million barrels of crude oil per day last week. That's down 14,000 barrels per day from the week before and just 57,000 barrels per day ahead of the same week last year. U.S. crude imports last week increased by more than 300-thousand barrels to 6.7 million barrels per day. Four-week average imports are two percent lower than during the same four weeks last year. The government this week reported gasoline inventories rose last week by 1.5 million barrels, but are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel stockpiles dropped by 800-thousand barrels and are 15% below the five-year average. Diesel prices are up 31 cents from a month ago across Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Experts blame hot weather, along with high oil prices for the recent spike in gasoline and diesel prices. Refineries must scale back operations when the temperature tops 95 degrees, so operations are dramatically lower nationwide. The auto club AAA pegs national gasoline prices at their highest since November, an average of $3.82 per gallon, up seven cents from a week ago, and nearly thirty cents higher than a month ago. The average across Kansas is up 40 cents in the last month to $3.65 per gallon. Friday's Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes dropped by four oil rigs for a total of 659 active rigs nationwide. Horizontal drilling was down by seven rigs. Drilling in the Permian Basin was down five rigs. The state breakouts show Texas down eight rigs while New Mexico was up two. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged statewide, but up two in the western half of the state.&nbsp; With 39 rigs drilling or about to, the tally is down nearly five percent from a week ago, and down 32% from a year go. Kansas regulators okayed 18 new drilling locations last week, with eight new permits in western Kansas. That's 762 new locations statewide so far this year, compared to 967 a year ago at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators in Kansas completed 37 new wells last week with 12 in western Kansas including one well in Russell County. Colorado is once again changing the rules in the patch. Experts say these changes could spread. The state will for the first time require the direct measurement of methane pollution at oil and gas wells. Supporters say the new rule improves an existing system built largely on guesswork and paperwork. Under recent legislation, emissions from the oil and gas industry must be cut 20% in seven years.&nbsp; A state commission will set up the new measurement methods and require transparency by operators. The state's two major industry trade groups support the rule, which they said will bring on a sound regulatory framework to verify greenhouse gas emissions. Saudi Arabia extended its unilateral oil production cut by another month and said it could be prolonged again or even increased. The cutback of one million barrels per day was launched last month, and will now last into September, according to a statement Thursday on state Saudi Press Agency. Bloomberg reports that will hold output from the world's largest crude exporter to about nine million barrels per day, the lowest level in several years. &nbsp; Operators spudded 14 oil and gas wells last week in Kansas, 711 new wells so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that's down from 942 wells a year ago at this time. Total footage drilled is down 28% from last year. The government reports the biggest weekly drop in U.S. crude inventories in recent memory. The Energy Information Administration reports total stockpiles of 439.8 million barrels as of July 28th. That's down 17 million barrels from a week earlier. Inventories are about one percent below the five-year average for this time of year according to the Energy Information Administration. U.S. operators pumped nearly 12.2 million barrels of crude oil per day last week. That's down 14,000 barrels per day from the week before and just 57,000 barrels per day ahead of the same week last year. U.S. crude imports last week increased by more than 300-thousand barrels to 6.7 million barrels per day. Four-week average imports are two percent lower than during the same four weeks last year. The government this week reported gasoline inventories rose last week by 1.5 million barrels, but are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel stockpiles dropped by 800-thousand barrels and are 15% below the five-year average. Diesel prices are up 31 cents from a month ago across Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: Hot weather slows refineries, spikes pump prices

In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. 

Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about foods and nutrition, begin the next level of their entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.

Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 

4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.

Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September.

Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. 

We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state.

 We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the state fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!

The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now is the completion of project record books. While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. 

The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes fewer specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. 

All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.

For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton office, at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about foods and nutrition, begin the next level of their entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September.Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state. We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the state fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now is the completion of project record books. While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes fewer specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton office, at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Kansas State Fair bound!

Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. 

Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. 

Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.

The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.

Updates this year include the addition of variety profiles for varieties AP Bigfoot, KS Territory, KS Providence, and Strad CL + as well as disease, insect, and agronomic ratings for several other new varieties.

Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.

A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection are the Kansas wheat variety performance tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. 

That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

The Colorado Wheat Variety Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states, including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). 

The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!

Lastly our local variety demonstration plot in Ellis County is also available on our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/ag_articles/2023%20Ellis%20County%20Wheat%20Variety%20Demonstration%20Plot.pdf">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.Updates this year include the addition of variety profiles for varieties AP Bigfoot, KS Territory, KS Providence, and Strad CL + as well as disease, insect, and agronomic ratings for several other new varieties.Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection are the Kansas wheat variety performance tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.The Colorado Wheat Variety Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states, including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!Lastly our local variety demonstration plot in Ellis County is also available on our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/ag_articles/2023%20Ellis%20County%20Wheat%20Variety%20Demonstration%20Plot.pdf">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 now available

On August 14, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.

Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.

Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.

The program runs in all 50 U.S. states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.

The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.

Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.

Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.

Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.

The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.

By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.

By providing free books directly to children's homes, the library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.

While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.

Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.

When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.

Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.

Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.

Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.

So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.

Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>On August 14, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.The program runs in all 50 U.S. states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.By providing free books directly to children's homes, the library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Private organizations no replacement for government public goods

When an altruistic heart is driven by the aspiration to assist others in achieving their full potential, a level of excellence beyond measure is attained. This is how I would portray our nursing department - a group of faculty and staff whose unwavering passion for supporting and caring for others never ceases to amaze me.

 One is through nursing licensure exam pass rates. Our May 2023 doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) graduates achieved a 100% pass rate for the Family Nurse Practitioner National Certification exam, the same pass rate we received in 2022. The national average for this exam was 74% in 2022. 

In November, we hosted the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) to renew accreditation for the DNP program, and we were approved for ten years - the lengthiest renewal period possible.

We are also thrilled to have been selected for a federal grant of over $2.5 million over the next four years. It will provide stipends for students who plan to work in rural western Kansas. This grant also covers tuition, books, and travel expenses and provides an iPad loaded with nearly $500 of medical software for our DNP students. Our commitment to advancing healthcare in rural western Kansas remains steadfast.

While these facts and figures are noteworthy, the true victories lie in the impact stories of our graduates. 

Taylor Ziegler is a prime example of this. Taylor graduated from FHSU with both her undergraduate and graduate degrees and now serves as Vice President of Nursing at Camber Children's Mental Health, where she oversees nursing and program services for Camber's children's psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment facilities.

"I appreciate how Fort Hays teaches students about diverse and rural populations and how to serve them best as a provider. Camber continues to serve children in crisis across our three sites in Kansas and enjoys having FHSU nursing students for their clinical in mental health," shared Taylor.

Through her service as an engaged citizen leader on our BSN and DNP advisory boards, Taylor perfectly embodies our university’s mission. She is an outstanding advocate for advancing the quality of nursing and mental health care in western Kansas.

In May, we graduated our largest bachelor of science class ever. 

Our National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate for the last two years combined is 95%. In 2022 our pass rate was 93%, a remarkable achievement compared to the national average of just under 80%. 

Our success has led to an opportunity to expand our impact, with our faculty seeking approval from the State Board of Nursing in Topeka to raise our admission quota from 65 to 90. The request was approved. This will allow us to prepare even more students for rewarding careers in nursing.

I am particularly impressed by how the department collaborates with Hays Medical Center (HMC). 

Recently, HMC created a paid summer internship that allows students who plan to work at HMC following graduation to receive a stipend for tuition and their time spent working as interns. Thank you, HaysMed and FHSU nursing faculty, for being strong partners and looking out for our students.

Our faculty understands that college is about much more than classrooms and exams – it’s also a time to gain leadership experiences, build confidence, and make a difference. 

Our nursing students are fully engaged in university life, participating in various co-curricular activities, including intercollegiate and intramural athletics, the arts, and student organizations like student government and professional organizations like the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Nursing Christian Fellowship, and Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society of nursing.

Nursing student Emma Swint's decision to join a student organization helped her build confidence. It also resulted in her making courageous decisions that delivered life-giving results. As a member of the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Emma was asked to consider swabbing her cheek for bone marrow and stem cell donation for the Gift of Life Program. Shortly after that experience, she was notified she was a match for two sisters, one aged five and the other six months, suffering from a type of leukemia.

Emma was sent to Salina in March to begin the process with blood draws to ensure she was the perfect match. In June, Emma received a phone call from the Gift of Life program. She was indeed the perfect match – having one donor match two individuals was extraordinary. She then flew down to Boca Raton, Florida, to give the gift of life to these girls – after a seven-hour, successful transplant process.

I am immensely proud of our faculty members who strive to make their courses and student learning experiences the best possible. 

Dr. Jenny Manry, our exemplary nursing department chair, shared that our recent BSN curriculum change increased the time students spend in clinical and rural rotations. The added hours in the capstone experience will increase student confidence and knowledge regarding patient care, better preparing them to be nurses immediately after graduation. I deeply admire and am grateful for Jenny's vision and passion for serving rural communities.

Our faculty constantly create great experiences and opportunities for our students and model their belief in continuing education and stackable professional credentials. We are very proud of several faculty members who have completed their doctoral degrees over the last two years - Michelle VanderWege, Bonnie Landgraf, and Katie Gabel each received their DNP degrees, and Kelly Cole received her Ed.D. degree.

Our department of nursing is truly exceptional. 

Their commitment to providing high-quality education and training to their students is evident in the success of their graduates. The department's faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting their students in every way possible, from providing hands-on clinical experience to offering mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, the department is at the forefront of nursing education. It's no wonder graduates of this program are highly sought after by employers and go on to make significant contributions to the healthcare field. 

Tisa Mason, Ed.D., is the president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president</figcaption>
 </figure>When an altruistic heart is driven by the aspiration to assist others in achieving their full potential, a level of excellence beyond measure is attained. This is how I would portray our nursing department - a group of faculty and staff whose unwavering passion for supporting and caring for others never ceases to amaze me.Success can be measured in several ways. One is through nursing licensure exam pass rates. Our May 2023 doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) graduates achieved a 100% pass rate for the Family Nurse Practitioner National Certification exam, the same pass rate we received in 2022. The national average for this exam was 74% in 2022. In November, we hosted the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) to renew accreditation for the DNP program, and we were approved for ten years - the lengthiest renewal period possible.We are also thrilled to have been selected for a federal grant of over $2.5 million over the next four years. It will provide stipends for students who plan to work in rural western Kansas. This grant also covers tuition, books, and travel expenses and provides an iPad loaded with nearly $500 of medical software for our DNP students. Our commitment to advancing healthcare in rural western Kansas remains steadfast.While these facts and figures are noteworthy, the true victories lie in the impact stories of our graduates. Taylor Ziegler is a prime example of this. Taylor graduated from FHSU with both her undergraduate and graduate degrees and now serves as Vice President of Nursing at Camber Children's Mental Health, where she oversees nursing and program services for Camber's children's psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment facilities."I appreciate how Fort Hays teaches students about diverse and rural populations and how to serve them best as a provider. Camber continues to serve children in crisis across our three sites in Kansas and enjoys having FHSU nursing students for their clinical in mental health," shared Taylor.Through her service as an engaged citizen leader on our BSN and DNP advisory boards, Taylor perfectly embodies our university’s mission. She is an outstanding advocate for advancing the quality of nursing and mental health care in western Kansas.In May, we graduated our largest bachelor of science class ever. Our National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate for the last two years combined is 95%. In 2022 our pass rate was 93%, a remarkable achievement compared to the national average of just under 80%. Our success has led to an opportunity to expand our impact, with our faculty seeking approval from the State Board of Nursing in Topeka to raise our admission quota from 65 to 90. The request was approved. This will allow us to prepare even more students for rewarding careers in nursing.I am particularly impressed by how the department collaborates with Hays Medical Center (HMC). Recently, HMC created a paid summer internship that allows students who plan to work at HMC following graduation to receive a stipend for tuition and their time spent working as interns. Thank you, HaysMed and FHSU nursing faculty, for being strong partners and looking out for our students.Our faculty understands that college is about much more than classrooms and exams – it’s also a time to gain leadership experiences, build confidence, and make a difference. Our nursing students are fully engaged in university life, participating in various co-curricular activities, including intercollegiate and intramural athletics, the arts, and student organizations like student government and professional organizations like the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Nursing Christian Fellowship, and Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society of nursing.Nursing student Emma Swint's decision to join a student organization helped her build confidence. It also resulted in her making courageous decisions that delivered life-giving results. As a member of the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Emma was asked to consider swabbing her cheek for bone marrow and stem cell donation for the Gift of Life Program. Shortly after that experience, she was notified she was a match for two sisters, one aged five and the other six months, suffering from a type of leukemia.Emma was sent to Salina in March to begin the process with blood draws to ensure she was the perfect match. In June, Emma received a phone call from the Gift of Life program. She was indeed the perfect match – having one donor match two individuals was extraordinary. She then flew down to Boca Raton, Florida, to give the gift of life to these girls – after a seven-hour, successful transplant process.I am immensely proud of our faculty members who strive to make their courses and student learning experiences the best possible. Dr. Jenny Manry, our exemplary nursing department chair, shared that our recent BSN curriculum change increased the time students spend in clinical and rural rotations. The added hours in the capstone experience will increase student confidence and knowledge regarding patient care, better preparing them to be nurses immediately after graduation. I deeply admire and am grateful for Jenny's vision and passion for serving rural communities.Our faculty constantly create great experiences and opportunities for our students and model their belief in continuing education and stackable professional credentials. We are very proud of several faculty members who have completed their doctoral degrees over the last two years - Michelle VanderWege, Bonnie Landgraf, and Katie Gabel each received their DNP degrees, and Kelly Cole received her Ed.D. degree.Our department of nursing is truly exceptional. Their commitment to providing high-quality education and training to their students is evident in the success of their graduates. The department's faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting their students in every way possible, from providing hands-on clinical experience to offering mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, the department is at the forefront of nursing education. It's no wonder graduates of this program are highly sought after by employers and go on to make significant contributions to the healthcare field. I couldn’t be prouder.Tisa Mason, Ed.D., is the president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: Professional excellence and caring hearts hallmarks of FHSU nursing

August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. 

Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. 

In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”

National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.

Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. 

However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. 

Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. 

Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke.

 That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.

Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. 

The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.

Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. 

In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. 

The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. 

<a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke. That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. <a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: World Breastfeeding Month/Week

Some producers may be anxious this year to find out the germination percent of the wheat they harvest, to see if it will make suitable seed. 

If they do a home germination test too soon after harvest, they may be shocked at the low germination percentage – unless the test is done correctly. That’s because wheat has a post-harvest dormancy requirement (some varieties more so than others). Even high-quality seed will not germinate at its maximum capacity right after harvest in most cases. This post-harvest dormancy is important to help decrease the chances of pre-harvest sprouting in case harvest is delayed due to weather conditions or other reasons.

To get around that, for the first several weeks after harvest, it’s important to make sure the wheat is pre-chilled before taking a germination test. Any reputable seed lab will do that on a routine basis. Producers testing their seed at home should also pre-chill the wheat by planting it and putting it in the refrigerator at about 40 degrees for five days. If the seed is not pre-chilled, producers should wait a month and a half after harvest before testing for germination.

There is some difference among varieties regarding how long their post-harvest dormancy requirement is – so much so that some varieties are more prone to pre-harvest sprouting. 

Hard white wheat varieties with poor sprouting tolerance, for example, have almost no summer dormancy requirement. They will germinate almost as soon as the seed is harvested. Other varieties have a relatively long summer dormancy requirement, and may not germinate well for five or six weeks after harvest unless the seed is pre-chilled. By Labor Day, all varieties will have lost their summer dormancy and should germinate unless the seed is defective in some way.

If there is any question about the viability of the seed, it is well worth the cost to have the seed tested for germination by a professional seed laboratory. This is especially true in areas where there was freeze damage, severe drought or heat stresses during grain filling, a rain delay at harvest, or wheat head scab.

Professional lab testing -having your seed professionally tested for germination is always a good practice - but with the severe drought and heat stress on the wheat crop in many areas this year, it is highly recommended. 

To have an official germination test on the seed, send a two-pound sample to: Kansas Crop Improvement Association &nbsp;2000 Kimball Ave. Manhattan, KS 66502

A germination test for non-members of KCIA will cost $20.00 and a sample submittal form can be printed off from the KCIA website: <a href="https://www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html">www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html</a>

Other seed quality tests are also available and are listed on the submittal form. A companion article in this eUpdate discusses the Accelerated Aging test that can help identify weak seed lots beyond the standard germination test.

If you want to do a germination test at home go to our web site <a href="http://www.cottonwood@ksu.edu">www.cottonwood@ksu.edu</a> and click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for the details of how to conduct it properly.

Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Kansas Crop Improvement Association and Romulo Lollato, Extension Wheat and Forages Specialist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Some producers may be anxious this year to find out the germination percent of the wheat they harvest, to see if it will make suitable seed. If they do a home germination test too soon after harvest, they may be shocked at the low germination percentage – unless the test is done correctly. That’s because wheat has a post-harvest dormancy requirement (some varieties more so than others). Even high-quality seed will not germinate at its maximum capacity right after harvest in most cases. This post-harvest dormancy is important to help decrease the chances of pre-harvest sprouting in case harvest is delayed due to weather conditions or other reasons.To get around that, for the first several weeks after harvest, it’s important to make sure the wheat is pre-chilled before taking a germination test. Any reputable seed lab will do that on a routine basis. Producers testing their seed at home should also pre-chill the wheat by planting it and putting it in the refrigerator at about 40 degrees for five days. If the seed is not pre-chilled, producers should wait a month and a half after harvest before testing for germination.There is some difference among varieties regarding how long their post-harvest dormancy requirement is – so much so that some varieties are more prone to pre-harvest sprouting. Hard white wheat varieties with poor sprouting tolerance, for example, have almost no summer dormancy requirement. They will germinate almost as soon as the seed is harvested. Other varieties have a relatively long summer dormancy requirement, and may not germinate well for five or six weeks after harvest unless the seed is pre-chilled. By Labor Day, all varieties will have lost their summer dormancy and should germinate unless the seed is defective in some way.If there is any question about the viability of the seed, it is well worth the cost to have the seed tested for germination by a professional seed laboratory. This is especially true in areas where there was freeze damage, severe drought or heat stresses during grain filling, a rain delay at harvest, or wheat head scab.Professional lab testing -having your seed professionally tested for germination is always a good practice - but with the severe drought and heat stress on the wheat crop in many areas this year, it is highly recommended. To have an official germination test on the seed, send a two-pound sample to: Kansas Crop Improvement Association &nbsp;2000 Kimball Ave. Manhattan, KS 66502A germination test for non-members of KCIA will cost $20.00 and a sample submittal form can be printed off from the KCIA website: <a href="https://www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html">www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html</a>Other seed quality tests are also available and are listed on the submittal form. A companion article in this eUpdate discusses the Accelerated Aging test that can help identify weak seed lots beyond the standard germination test. If you want to do a germination test at home go to our web site <a href="http://www.cottonwood@ksu.edu">www.cottonwood@ksu.edu</a> and click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for the details of how to conduct it properly.Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Kansas Crop Improvement Association and Romulo Lollato, Extension Wheat and Forages Specialist.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Germination tests for wheat seed at home and professional lab

In Wichita, Topeka, and elsewhere across Kansas, the municipal election cycle is underway. 

Candidates for city council and school board seats and mayor will be selected in the primary elections which will conclude on Tuesday, August 1. For those few Kansans involved in these races, whether as candidates or supporters or observers, here’s a primer on how they are (and aren’t) changing.

The most important basic electoral reality in local elections is the word I just used: “few.” Even as voter turnout has trended upwards nationwide, participation in municipal elections seems likely to remain very low. 

When mayoral candidates, who compete for city-wide pool of potential voters, are on the ballot, the primary elections may see only 10% of registered voters bothering to cast ballots; when you only have city council and school board members running in their distinct districts, overall turnout is almost always even less.

This means that candidates looking to advance to their respective general elections in November are trying to find ways to motivate a relatively tiny number of likely voters.

The decline in the social role which political parties once played has made this more difficult. Partisanship is, of course, widely condemned as interfering with the ability of elected representatives to compromise with one another—and looking at our national government, the evidence in support to that condemnation is plentiful.

But at the same time, parties are the greatest political tool yet invented for helping busy citizens, especially during times of social unrest and confusion, to identify with other voters, interest groups, and ultimately candidates who share and represent best their own considered opinions. As much as people dislike the political polarization in America, that same fierce attachment to one’s chosen political tribe is part of what has been getting more citizens to vote nationwide.

Municipal elections in Kansas are, by state law, non-partisan. However, this has never stopped party-aligned organizations from promoting their preferred candidates for city council or school board—lately, more and more explicitly. 

In recent election cycles in Kansas, we’ve seen country, state, and even national Republican party and affiliated socially conservative or libertarian groups support—through donations, but also through mailers, phone banks, and more—local candidates (different Democratic groups have done the same, but not nearly so often or as well).

But whether this will result in any increase in turnout remains to be seen. There may simply be a hard ceiling on how many people can be engaged by arguments over classroom curricula, land development, and other city and school issues (especially during the summer). If that is the case, the unapologetic partisanship in how some candidates fund and develop their campaigns—however much they may avoid partisan language in favor of emphasizing broad, presumably unifying generalities—may merely result in a fair amount of partisan cannibalization.

The better funded Republican and Democratic municipal candidates, even if they don’t personally campaign as such, may split voters, attracting some that might have voted differently, looking at questions of civic experience and competence rather than party allegiance. 

For some local candidates, who may be committed members of their parties but also operating on the increasingly-dated assumption that local races needn’t have any connection to ideologically-affiliated money, interests, or causes, the potential eclipse of their detail-oriented arguments by well-connected candidates is frustrating.

Still, politics is always changing, and candidates must adapt. Ultimately, I have respect for every candidate who wades into these murky waters. Late into the night on August 1, I’ll be watching.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="An expert on local and urban democracy,&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>An expert on local and urban democracy,&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In Wichita, Topeka, and elsewhere across Kansas, the municipal election cycle is underway. Candidates for city council and school board seats and mayor will be selected in the primary elections which will conclude on Tuesday, August 1. For those few Kansans involved in these races, whether as candidates or supporters or observers, here’s a primer on how they are (and aren’t) changing.The most important basic electoral reality in local elections is the word I just used: “few.” Even as voter turnout has trended upwards nationwide, participation in municipal elections seems likely to remain very low. When mayoral candidates, who compete for city-wide pool of potential voters, are on the ballot, the primary elections may see only 10% of registered voters bothering to cast ballots; when you only have city council and school board members running in their distinct districts, overall turnout is almost always even less.This means that candidates looking to advance to their respective general elections in November are trying to find ways to motivate a relatively tiny number of likely voters.The decline in the social role which political parties once played has made this more difficult. Partisanship is, of course, widely condemned as interfering with the ability of elected representatives to compromise with one another—and looking at our national government, the evidence in support to that condemnation is plentiful.But at the same time, parties are the greatest political tool yet invented for helping busy citizens, especially during times of social unrest and confusion, to identify with other voters, interest groups, and ultimately candidates who share and represent best their own considered opinions. As much as people dislike the political polarization in America, that same fierce attachment to one’s chosen political tribe is part of what has been getting more citizens to vote nationwide.Municipal elections in Kansas are, by state law, non-partisan. However, this has never stopped party-aligned organizations from promoting their preferred candidates for city council or school board—lately, more and more explicitly. In recent election cycles in Kansas, we’ve seen country, state, and even national Republican party and affiliated socially conservative or libertarian groups support—through donations, but also through mailers, phone banks, and more—local candidates (different Democratic groups have done the same, but not nearly so often or as well).But whether this will result in any increase in turnout remains to be seen. There may simply be a hard ceiling on how many people can be engaged by arguments over classroom curricula, land development, and other city and school issues (especially during the summer). If that is the case, the unapologetic partisanship in how some candidates fund and develop their campaigns—however much they may avoid partisan language in favor of emphasizing broad, presumably unifying generalities—may merely result in a fair amount of partisan cannibalization.The better funded Republican and Democratic municipal candidates, even if they don’t personally campaign as such, may split voters, attracting some that might have voted differently, looking at questions of civic experience and competence rather than party allegiance. For some local candidates, who may be committed members of their parties but also operating on the increasingly-dated assumption that local races needn’t have any connection to ideologically-affiliated money, interests, or causes, the potential eclipse of their detail-oriented arguments by well-connected candidates is frustrating.Still, politics is always changing, and candidates must adapt. Ultimately, I have respect for every candidate who wades into these murky waters. Late into the night on August 1, I’ll be watching.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: How municipal primaries are changing

July 26 marks the 33rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act by President George H.W. Bush, a day recognized as National Disability Independence Day. 

This landmark piece of legislation requires that people with disabilities be treated with equal dignity and prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in schools, the workplace, transportation and all other public accommodations.

Appropriately, just a few days ago, we celebrated what would have been Bob Dole’s 100th birthday. 

Senator Dole lived for more than 76 years with the injuries he sustained while serving in Italy during World War II. His ability to empathize with others living with disabilities led him to help pass the ADA while serving as the Republican Leader in the U.S. Senate. 

Dole often listed passage of the ADA among his proudest accomplishments during his 27 years representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate.

While the ADA was groundbreaking for its progress toward disability independence, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, passed a little less than a decade ago, built on the ADA by opening up the opportunity for financial independence for Americans living with a disability. 

Under the ABLE Act, the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office offers people with disabilities ABLE accounts that they can use to save and invest their own funds. Money in an ABLE account is generally not counted as assets when determining eligibility for benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.

Before the ABLE Act passed in 2014, people receiving SSI, Medicaid and many other federal benefits could only save up to $2,000 to remain qualified; this limit made reaching independence virtually impossible. 

The establishment of ABLE accounts provides a way around this limit. By using an ABLE account, people with disabilities can save up to $100,000 without losing their benefits. Like the ADA, the ABLE Act helps break down barriers restricting Americans living with disabilities.

Any interest earned on ABLE accounts is tax-deferred and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Qualified expenses encompass a wide range of categories, including education, housing, transportation, health and wellness, basic living expenses, and many others.

To be eligible to open an ABLE account, the person’s disability must have onset before the age of 26. 

However, thanks to the recent passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, that will increase to age 46 beginning January 1, 2026, making even more people eligible to save through an ABLE account.

Learn more about ABLE accounts or get started saving today at&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.savewithable.com/" target="_blank">https://KS.SaveWithABLE.com</a>.

Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690316416258.jpeg" alt="Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer." />
 <figcaption>Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.</figcaption>
 </figure>July 26 marks the 33rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act by President George H.W. Bush, a day recognized as National Disability Independence Day. This landmark piece of legislation requires that people with disabilities be treated with equal dignity and prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in schools, the workplace, transportation and all other public accommodations.Appropriately, just a few days ago, we celebrated what would have been Bob Dole’s 100th birthday. Senator Dole lived for more than 76 years with the injuries he sustained while serving in Italy during World War II. His ability to empathize with others living with disabilities led him to help pass the ADA while serving as the Republican Leader in the U.S. Senate. Dole often listed passage of the ADA among his proudest accomplishments during his 27 years representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate.While the ADA was groundbreaking for its progress toward disability independence, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, passed a little less than a decade ago, built on the ADA by opening up the opportunity for financial independence for Americans living with a disability. Under the ABLE Act, the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office offers people with disabilities ABLE accounts that they can use to save and invest their own funds. Money in an ABLE account is generally not counted as assets when determining eligibility for benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.Before the ABLE Act passed in 2014, people receiving SSI, Medicaid and many other federal benefits could only save up to $2,000 to remain qualified; this limit made reaching independence virtually impossible. The establishment of ABLE accounts provides a way around this limit. By using an ABLE account, people with disabilities can save up to $100,000 without losing their benefits. Like the ADA, the ABLE Act helps break down barriers restricting Americans living with disabilities.Any interest earned on ABLE accounts is tax-deferred and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Qualified expenses encompass a wide range of categories, including education, housing, transportation, health and wellness, basic living expenses, and many others.To be eligible to open an ABLE account, the person’s disability must have onset before the age of 26. However, thanks to the recent passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, that will increase to age 46 beginning January 1, 2026, making even more people eligible to save through an ABLE account.Learn more about ABLE accounts or get started saving today at&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.savewithable.com/" target="_blank">https://KS.SaveWithABLE.com</a>.Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.

JOHNSON: ABLE accounts offer financial independence for those with disability

I will apologize for my bluntness but I have to let my feelings be known. As most know I have been in law enforcement for over forty years. I have seen things that most people could not imagine, thus causing me to voice my concerns for the upcoming election.

 I am extremely concerned for the safety of our children if the YES vote would win. 

This vote would put our children at risk as they will have to be transported to schools farther away from where they are going right now. Our buses stand a greater chance of being in an accident due to road conditions such as rain, ice, and snow. Our older children that can drive will be in the same danger. 

I know that our children and adults text while they drive as I have tried to enforce this law. I know they will be texting while driving on a highway at higher speeds than in town thus elevating the chance of an accident. I have had to give notifications to family members for numerous reasons that a family member has been hurt or deceased. 

This is a tragic thing to do when it is a motor vehicle accident. The shock to the family is devastating as I have experienced it for myself. My mother was killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2008 and I received the information by phone. 

I think those responsible for this issue of ending the school district did not think this through as they are putting our children at risk, if this issue passes. 

I also have concerns about other issues this vote could cause but my main concern is for the safety of our children. I would ask that all of you that have children, grandchildren, or other family members think about&nbsp;this as you vote on this issue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I will apologize for my bluntness but I have to let my feelings be known. As most know I have been in law enforcement for over forty years. I have seen things that most people could not imagine, thus causing me to voice my concerns for the upcoming election. I am extremely concerned for the safety of our children if the YES vote would win. This vote would put our children at risk as they will have to be transported to schools farther away from where they are going right now. Our buses stand a greater chance of being in an accident due to road conditions such as rain, ice, and snow. Our older children that can drive will be in the same danger. I know that our children and adults text while they drive as I have tried to enforce this law. I know they will be texting while driving on a highway at higher speeds than in town thus elevating the chance of an accident. I have had to give notifications to family members for numerous reasons that a family member has been hurt or deceased. This is a tragic thing to do when it is a motor vehicle accident. The shock to the family is devastating as I have experienced it for myself. My mother was killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2008 and I received the information by phone. I think those responsible for this issue of ending the school district did not think this through as they are putting our children at risk, if this issue passes. I also have concerns about other issues this vote could cause but my main concern is for the safety of our children. I would ask that all of you that have children, grandchildren, or other family members think about&nbsp;this as you vote on this issue.- Gary D. Vaughan, Claflin

Letter to the Editor: Concern for children's safety in USD 112 vote

It’s hard to believe that July 25 marks my one-year anniversary of becoming an extension agent. This year went by so fast! I’ve been so blessed by making the move to K-State Research and Extension. I love my job and have gotten to do so many fun things this past year. 

I started right after the Ellis County Fair last year, and as I sit here writing this, we are wrapping up my first county fair as an extension agent.

 I have been so impressed by the youth in our community. Watching the kids work with their animals, make projects, and helping out in the food stand has been such a pleasure. So many volunteers work hard to bring the Ellis County Fair together.

One of the things that is so enjoyable about my job is no two days are ever the same. Some days are office days and other days I don’t see my office. 

You never know what question will come in either by phone, email or in person at the office. Questions are great because if I don’t know the answer then I do the research to get the answer. It is safe to say I learn something new every day. Hearing what other people are curious about makes my job interesting. Keep asking questions!

One of the highlights of my first year was the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class held earlier this year. 

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is a strength training class for older adults that helps them with balance, strength and flexibility. Sixteen men and women signed up for the class and not one person quit during the 8 weeks. They all finished! Now that is perseverance! Yes, life happens and throws us curveballs. Some participants had to miss a few classes, but they all finished. Not only did they all finish, but a group of them continued to meet and do the exercises on their own! We had so much fun during the class telling jokes and trying new recipes. I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Another class will begin in late August. Watch for the announcement.

Programming for older people has been a pleasure, and going into the schools has been fun also. Since my background is in early childhood, I really enjoy being able to go into the childcare setting, libraries and schools to deliver programming around health and nutrition. Glo-germ handwashing, field to fork, blender bike and organwise are a few of the programs I have offered for the youth.

I look forward to many more years as an extension agent and continuing to form relationships with community partners. 

Goals for my second year include offering more signature programs from K-State such as Walk with Ease, Dining with Diabetes and Med Instead of Meds. I will also get trained in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Level 2. Mental health programming and youth programming continue to be important as well.

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="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s hard to believe that July 25 marks my one-year anniversary of becoming an extension agent. This year went by so fast! I’ve been so blessed by making the move to K-State Research and Extension. I love my job and have gotten to do so many fun things this past year. I started right after the Ellis County Fair last year, and as I sit here writing this, we are wrapping up my first county fair as an extension agent. I have been so impressed by the youth in our community. Watching the kids work with their animals, make projects, and helping out in the food stand has been such a pleasure. So many volunteers work hard to bring the Ellis County Fair together.One of the things that is so enjoyable about my job is no two days are ever the same. Some days are office days and other days I don’t see my office. You never know what question will come in either by phone, email or in person at the office. Questions are great because if I don’t know the answer then I do the research to get the answer. It is safe to say I learn something new every day. Hearing what other people are curious about makes my job interesting. Keep asking questions!One of the highlights of my first year was the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class held earlier this year. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is a strength training class for older adults that helps them with balance, strength and flexibility. Sixteen men and women signed up for the class and not one person quit during the 8 weeks. They all finished! Now that is perseverance! Yes, life happens and throws us curveballs. Some participants had to miss a few classes, but they all finished. Not only did they all finish, but a group of them continued to meet and do the exercises on their own! We had so much fun during the class telling jokes and trying new recipes. I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Another class will begin in late August. Watch for the announcement.Programming for older people has been a pleasure, and going into the schools has been fun also. Since my background is in early childhood, I really enjoy being able to go into the childcare setting, libraries and schools to deliver programming around health and nutrition. Glo-germ handwashing, field to fork, blender bike and organwise are a few of the programs I have offered for the youth.I look forward to many more years as an extension agent and continuing to form relationships with community partners. Goals for my second year include offering more signature programs from K-State such as Walk with Ease, Dining with Diabetes and Med Instead of Meds. I will also get trained in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Level 2. Mental health programming and youth programming continue to be important as well.Thank you for a great first year!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

Opinion