By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Arts Council spring art walk was moved five years ago from Friday evenings for a few short hours to a full day on Saturdays.

It's been a boon to downtown businesses, says Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, allowing art enthusiasts to also enjoy shopping at the local boutiques and restaurants.

"We want people to enjoy the art, but there's also the opportunity to pop into little stores, even if they're not on the art walk," she said.&nbsp;

Having it on the weekend also allows more out-of-town visitors to enjoy the art walk.&nbsp;

"It really allows you to savor it and make it a full day. We know we're contributing to the vitality and economic impact of downtown. community," Meder said.

The walk is anchored by the 56th annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.&nbsp;Fifty-six pieces from more than 270 submissions were selected by juror Jay D. Nelson.&nbsp;The exhibition will run through June 6.

The list of art stops is available online on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council website</a>, with media ranging from hand-turned wood vessels, jewelry design and a book signing to the more traditional paint, ceramics and photography.&nbsp;

Several culminating exhibits will be presented by Fort Hays State University art students. Hays High students will also have an art showcase at 809 Studio.

Two exhibits will be at Fort Hays State University in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.&nbsp;

The FHSU Jazz Band will present a concert at 2 p.m. in the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, where a chalk art station for the kids and young at heart will be set up, courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.

After the art walk, performances will be presented that evening by the Hays Community Theatre with "Bus Stop" by William Inge and the FHSU "New Music Festival" concert.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=uah9p-1881afa-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745436986270.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council spring art walk was moved five years ago from Friday evenings for a few short hours to a full day on Saturdays.It's been a boon to downtown businesses, says Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, allowing art enthusiasts to also enjoy shopping at the local boutiques and restaurants."We want people to enjoy the art, but there's also the opportunity to pop into little stores, even if they're not on the art walk," she said.&nbsp;Having it on the weekend also allows more out-of-town visitors to enjoy the art walk.&nbsp;"It really allows you to savor it and make it a full day. We know we're contributing to the vitality and economic impact of downtown. community," Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745437067046.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745411149937.png" alt="Hays Arts Council" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
 </figure>The walk is anchored by the 56th annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.&nbsp;Fifty-six pieces from more than 270 submissions were selected by juror Jay D. Nelson.&nbsp;The exhibition will run through June 6.The list of art stops is available online on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council website</a>, with media ranging from hand-turned wood vessels, jewelry design and a book signing to the more traditional paint, ceramics and photography.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745437103797.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Several culminating exhibits will be presented by Fort Hays State University art students. Hays High students will also have an art showcase at 809 Studio.Two exhibits will be at Fort Hays State University in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.&nbsp;The FHSU Jazz Band will present a concert at 2 p.m. in the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, where a chalk art station for the kids and young at heart will be set up, courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.After the art walk, performances will be presented that evening by the Hays Community Theatre with "Bus Stop" by William Inge and the FHSU "New Music Festival" concert.

🎙 Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk set for Saturday

On April 2, Humanities Kansas (HK) was notified that the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) was suspended. As a result, HK has been forced to make immediate cuts to grants and programs across Kansas. The termination of federal funding puts HK resources at risk and will impact HK's ability to team up with local museums, libraries, and cultural organizations in communities of all sizes.&nbsp;As library leaders, we have been fielding questions from concerned community members wondering the impact of this cut on our libraries and local communities.&nbsp;

Humanities events bring people together to learn, engage, and build community. In 2024 alone, HK supported 207 events serving 473,649 citizens in the Big First District. Over the past three years in north central Kansas, HK has supported 60 speaker presentations, four grants for local-level projects, a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibit, a Vietnam veterans’ oral history project, and 11 poetry events. These projects explored history, supported civic engagement, and preserved important stories.

Amplify this impact across the state: in 2024 HK supported 488 events in 126 communities. More than 607,000 Kansans engaged with thoughtful and important programming exploring Kansas stories.&nbsp;

HK has been a strong partner in uplifting history and culture in Hays and our surrounding communities. The Ellis County Historical Society is collecting oral histories of Vietnam veterans, which will be preserved at the Kansas Historical Society and the Library of Congress. The Hays Public Library regularly hosts Speakers Bureau presentations that explore Kansas stories and are free to attend. An HK grant to the Nicodemus Historical Society supported a short film, “African American Pioneers,” which brings an important Kansas story to a national audience. These examples are a few of the many ways HK’s work helps us look toward the future while honoring our local history.&nbsp;

While the current speed and accessibility of online media has its benefits, how will our stories and community issues be retained for the future? HK supports local libraries, museums, and community groups as they preserve community histories one project at a time. At the heart of it, this work strengthens our community and connecst us with our neighbors and our collective past.&nbsp;

Suspension of the National Endowment for the Humanities and ultimately state grants to Humanities Kansas will lead to fewer and lower quality presentations, exhibitions, discussions, and preservation projects in Hays and surrounding communities.&nbsp;

If you want to learn more about Humanities Kansas and its impact on Kansans, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/">https://www.humanitieskansas.org/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

— Ginger Williams Fort Hays State University, dean of Library Services

— Brandon Hines Hays Public Library, director&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On April 2, Humanities Kansas (HK) was notified that the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) was suspended. As a result, HK has been forced to make immediate cuts to grants and programs across Kansas. The termination of federal funding puts HK resources at risk and will impact HK's ability to team up with local museums, libraries, and cultural organizations in communities of all sizes.&nbsp;As library leaders, we have been fielding questions from concerned community members wondering the impact of this cut on our libraries and local communities.&nbsp;Humanities events bring people together to learn, engage, and build community. In 2024 alone, HK supported 207 events serving 473,649 citizens in the Big First District. Over the past three years in north central Kansas, HK has supported 60 speaker presentations, four grants for local-level projects, a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibit, a Vietnam veterans’ oral history project, and 11 poetry events. These projects explored history, supported civic engagement, and preserved important stories.Amplify this impact across the state: in 2024 HK supported 488 events in 126 communities. More than 607,000 Kansans engaged with thoughtful and important programming exploring Kansas stories.&nbsp;HK has been a strong partner in uplifting history and culture in Hays and our surrounding communities. The Ellis County Historical Society is collecting oral histories of Vietnam veterans, which will be preserved at the Kansas Historical Society and the Library of Congress. The Hays Public Library regularly hosts Speakers Bureau presentations that explore Kansas stories and are free to attend. An HK grant to the Nicodemus Historical Society supported a short film, “African American Pioneers,” which brings an important Kansas story to a national audience. These examples are a few of the many ways HK’s work helps us look toward the future while honoring our local history.&nbsp;While the current speed and accessibility of online media has its benefits, how will our stories and community issues be retained for the future? HK supports local libraries, museums, and community groups as they preserve community histories one project at a time. At the heart of it, this work strengthens our community and connecst us with our neighbors and our collective past.&nbsp;Suspension of the National Endowment for the Humanities and ultimately state grants to Humanities Kansas will lead to fewer and lower quality presentations, exhibitions, discussions, and preservation projects in Hays and surrounding communities.&nbsp;If you want to learn more about Humanities Kansas and its impact on Kansans, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/">https://www.humanitieskansas.org/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;— Ginger Williams Fort Hays State University, dean of Library Services— Brandon Hines Hays Public Library, director&nbsp;&nbsp;

Letter: Impact of Humanities Kansas on Hays community

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

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 adults. No one is too inactive, or too young to participate. 

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 fee like at a gym and there are no special clothes or equipment 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.

Regular classes will begin April 28, 2025 and will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4 p.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays located at 601 Main Street. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. I’m hoping by offering it at 4 p.m. more&nbsp;working people might also be able to attend. 

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 on a regular basis.

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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744127925465.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictOne 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 adults. No one is too inactive, or too young to participate. 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 fee like at a gym and there are no special clothes or equipment 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.Regular classes will begin April 28, 2025 and will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4 p.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays located at 601 Main Street. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. I’m hoping by offering it at 4 p.m. more&nbsp;working people might also be able to attend. 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 on a regular basis.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 classes start April 28

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

A few years back at the Outdoor Writers of Kansas spring outing at Beloit,&nbsp; Joyce and I were paired with Chatt Martin for a half-day’s crappie fishing on Waconda Lake, just outside Glen Elder.

 Since retiring, Chatt has turned his passion for crappie fishing into a full-time crappie fishing guide service called Crappie Time Fishing. 

Glen Elder is usually hot for crappies this time of year and we were hearing stories of fantastic “slab” crappies being caught. When Chatt and I made the final arrangements for that Tuesday morning, his only question for me was “Has Joyce ever fished with long rods?”

Long rods, indeed. As we pulled into the boat ramp parking lot the next morning, there was no doubt which boat was awaiting us, as ten-foot fishing rods towered above the center console of his boat. We loaded up and headed across the lake to the first of several spots that had been giving up nice crappies.

 Our guide's favorite honey hole was along the causeway, a huge, high rock-laden embankment with a road atop it, that encloses the western end of the lake, but because the wind was forecast to be nasty early on, we tried other spots. It seems everyone else felt the same, and our first stop, a cove cut far back into the bluffs along the southern shore, already sported several boats. No one was catching much, but a scan of the cove with Chatt's high-dollar Lowrance fish finder showed some fish out front toward the opening. 

After an hour of trying most things known to man and only catching two fish, Chatt decided it was time to fight the wind in necessary and we headed across the lake to his hot spot along the causeway.

We slowly motored alongside a long stretch of dead, beaver-chewed saplings and brush that ran for several hundred yards along the edge of the causeway. 

Chatt positioned the boat and told us we were about to learn the art of “doodlesocking.”

 Doodlesocking is an age-old, tried and true method created by bass fishermen years or possible generations ago for fishing in and around snags of any kind. It involves the use of a very long, stout pole with a bait or jig fastened to the end of a short length of heavy line. The idea is to dip or “doodle” the bait slowly into the water in and around tree limbs, etc., then wait for a fish to “sock” it. 

It works well because you’re fishing the bait straight up and down into pockets around weeds, lily pads, brush and stumps, instead of casting into them and trying to drag the bait through by reeling, which almost always results in getting snagged. 

Chatt rigged his extra-long rods with jig heads of various colors and tipped them each with a live minnow that hung from two feet of line. The water was only a couple feet deep and the brush stretched ten to fifteen feet out from the base of the rocks. The three of us spaced ourselves along the same side of the boat and began dipping the jigs in amongst the brush as the electric trolling motor pulled us slowly along parallel to the shore. 

The crappies were just beginning to come up into shallow water to spawn, and in the first several yards, Chatt and I landed three nice ones. The day before, Joyce had cleaned our clocks catching walleye, but that day she had not yet caught a fish. Suddenly, she hauled upward on her rod which bent double toward the water as she hoisted a fat, feisty crappie into the boat.

Because of the wind and weather change the night before, we didn’t catch many crappies, but the ones we caught were in great condition. 

What I find ironic about the day was that we fished from a boat sporting fish-locator electronics costing as much as my pickup, with rods and reels each worth a couple days' wages and yet we caught our fish using an age-old technique called doodlesocking that has been&nbsp;round since fishing poles were sticks and string. But hey, to me and to a fishing guide, it’s called doin’ whatever works!&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsA few years back at the Outdoor Writers of Kansas spring outing at Beloit,&nbsp; Joyce and I were paired with Chatt Martin for a half-day’s crappie fishing on Waconda Lake, just outside Glen Elder. Since retiring, Chatt has turned his passion for crappie fishing into a full-time crappie fishing guide service called Crappie Time Fishing. Glen Elder is usually hot for crappies this time of year and we were hearing stories of fantastic “slab” crappies being caught. When Chatt and I made the final arrangements for that Tuesday morning, his only question for me was “Has Joyce ever fished with long rods?”Long rods, indeed. As we pulled into the boat ramp parking lot the next morning, there was no doubt which boat was awaiting us, as ten-foot fishing rods towered above the center console of his boat. We loaded up and headed across the lake to the first of several spots that had been giving up nice crappies. Our guide's favorite honey hole was along the causeway, a huge, high rock-laden embankment with a road atop it, that encloses the western end of the lake, but because the wind was forecast to be nasty early on, we tried other spots. It seems everyone else felt the same, and our first stop, a cove cut far back into the bluffs along the southern shore, already sported several boats. No one was catching much, but a scan of the cove with Chatt's high-dollar Lowrance fish finder showed some fish out front toward the opening. After an hour of trying most things known to man and only catching two fish, Chatt decided it was time to fight the wind in necessary and we headed across the lake to his hot spot along the causeway.We slowly motored alongside a long stretch of dead, beaver-chewed saplings and brush that ran for several hundred yards along the edge of the causeway. Chatt positioned the boat and told us we were about to learn the art of “doodlesocking.” Doodlesocking is an age-old, tried and true method created by bass fishermen years or possible generations ago for fishing in and around snags of any kind. It involves the use of a very long, stout pole with a bait or jig fastened to the end of a short length of heavy line. The idea is to dip or “doodle” the bait slowly into the water in and around tree limbs, etc., then wait for a fish to “sock” it. It works well because you’re fishing the bait straight up and down into pockets around weeds, lily pads, brush and stumps, instead of casting into them and trying to drag the bait through by reeling, which almost always results in getting snagged. Chatt rigged his extra-long rods with jig heads of various colors and tipped them each with a live minnow that hung from two feet of line. The water was only a couple feet deep and the brush stretched ten to fifteen feet out from the base of the rocks. The three of us spaced ourselves along the same side of the boat and began dipping the jigs in amongst the brush as the electric trolling motor pulled us slowly along parallel to the shore. The crappies were just beginning to come up into shallow water to spawn, and in the first several yards, Chatt and I landed three nice ones. The day before, Joyce had cleaned our clocks catching walleye, but that day she had not yet caught a fish. Suddenly, she hauled upward on her rod which bent double toward the water as she hoisted a fat, feisty crappie into the boat.Because of the wind and weather change the night before, we didn’t catch many crappies, but the ones we caught were in great condition. What I find ironic about the day was that we fished from a boat sporting fish-locator electronics costing as much as my pickup, with rods and reels each worth a couple days' wages and yet we caught our fish using an age-old technique called doodlesocking that has been&nbsp;round since fishing poles were sticks and string. But hey, to me and to a fishing guide, it’s called doin’ whatever works!&nbsp;Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Doodlesocking

By MICHAEL A. SMITH &nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;

Underpaid for years, Kansas legislators finally received a substantial pay increase this year.&nbsp; Instead of a paltry per diem (per day) allowance, they now receive $43,000 per year and remain eligible for KPERS benefits.

Normally, I would argue in favor of this. 

It takes courage for legislators to raise their own pay and then sit for re-election before collecting it.&nbsp; As per the state constitution, there is no other way to do this—not even to keep up with inflation—and constituents hate it, often believing their representatives (or more accurately, the representatives from&nbsp;other&nbsp;districts) to be undeserving.&nbsp; 

Yet political science research has shown for decades that professional legislatures produce better legislation, less likely to cause problems or be overturned in court. 

During session, legislators work far in excess of 40 hours per week, and it takes years to learn the ins and outs of complicated policies such as the state budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That said, with the hefty pay increase, one might think that the legislators would also lengthen the session.&nbsp; 

The Late KU Professor Burdett Loomis documented the cost of the Kansas Legislature’s short, rushed sessions all the way back in 1994.&nbsp; Loomis wrote at length about the frantic, sleep-deprived, late-night sessions in which the Legislature would cobble together budgets at the last minute.&nbsp; Each succeeding year, they would vow to pass a budget earlier—and then do the same thing again.&nbsp; In 2012, Representative Bob Bethell fell asleep driving home after the end of the session, crashed his car, and died.

Now the legislators finally make decent pay.&nbsp; So, why the super-short session this year?&nbsp; 

They rushed the budget through so quickly that they did not even allow time for the next round of budget estimates, which may make their numbers particularly inaccurate and require fixing later. The legislators were in such a rush, they held bulk line-item veto overrides, not taking the time to review Governor Kelly’s proposed spending cuts one at a time.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, the only plausible reason for this crazy hurry is the leadership’s desire to ram through policies without allowing time for discussion, deliberation, or debate.&nbsp; 

As shown during recent town hall meetings for Senator Roger Marshall and other members of Congress, public feedback can get raucous, particularly when programs, policies, or benefits that make a real difference in people’s lives are threatened.&nbsp; 

Constituents deserve to have a voice, and if what they say is hard to hear, well, that’s why we pay you the big bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Granted--and in stark contrast with the current circus in Washington, DC--the Kansas budget this year was largely an incrementalist one, making only small, mostly upward changes to state appropriations.&nbsp; 

But some major “hot button” legislation passed, including a ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a ban on gender-affirming medical care for Transgender youth, and some additional tax cuts on top of the huge one passed last year. 

This threatens to put the state into a $461 million shortfall by 2028. &nbsp;

 Constituents may want to talk about this, but whoops, the session’s already over!&nbsp;

 It should also be noted that the legislators shortened their session primarily by cutting the so-called “breaks.”&nbsp; These are—or&nbsp;were—the days they would go home and listen to constituents, before heading back to Topeka to finish their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a political scientist, I strongly support building up the institutional capacity of state legislatures, including pay. 

But is it too much to ask for better service in exchange for the higher pay?&nbsp; With their frantic session this year, the Kansas Legislature failed to hold up their end of the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="Michael A. Smith&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michael A. Smith&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH &nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;Underpaid for years, Kansas legislators finally received a substantial pay increase this year.&nbsp; Instead of a paltry per diem (per day) allowance, they now receive $43,000 per year and remain eligible for KPERS benefits.Normally, I would argue in favor of this. It takes courage for legislators to raise their own pay and then sit for re-election before collecting it.&nbsp; As per the state constitution, there is no other way to do this—not even to keep up with inflation—and constituents hate it, often believing their representatives (or more accurately, the representatives from&nbsp;other&nbsp;districts) to be undeserving.&nbsp; Yet political science research has shown for decades that professional legislatures produce better legislation, less likely to cause problems or be overturned in court. During session, legislators work far in excess of 40 hours per week, and it takes years to learn the ins and outs of complicated policies such as the state budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, with the hefty pay increase, one might think that the legislators would also lengthen the session.&nbsp; The Late KU Professor Burdett Loomis documented the cost of the Kansas Legislature’s short, rushed sessions all the way back in 1994.&nbsp; Loomis wrote at length about the frantic, sleep-deprived, late-night sessions in which the Legislature would cobble together budgets at the last minute.&nbsp; Each succeeding year, they would vow to pass a budget earlier—and then do the same thing again.&nbsp; In 2012, Representative Bob Bethell fell asleep driving home after the end of the session, crashed his car, and died.Now the legislators finally make decent pay.&nbsp; So, why the super-short session this year?&nbsp; They rushed the budget through so quickly that they did not even allow time for the next round of budget estimates, which may make their numbers particularly inaccurate and require fixing later. The legislators were in such a rush, they held bulk line-item veto overrides, not taking the time to review Governor Kelly’s proposed spending cuts one at a time.&nbsp;Unfortunately, the only plausible reason for this crazy hurry is the leadership’s desire to ram through policies without allowing time for discussion, deliberation, or debate.&nbsp; As shown during recent town hall meetings for Senator Roger Marshall and other members of Congress, public feedback can get raucous, particularly when programs, policies, or benefits that make a real difference in people’s lives are threatened.&nbsp; Constituents deserve to have a voice, and if what they say is hard to hear, well, that’s why we pay you the big bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted--and in stark contrast with the current circus in Washington, DC--the Kansas budget this year was largely an incrementalist one, making only small, mostly upward changes to state appropriations.&nbsp; But some major “hot button” legislation passed, including a ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a ban on gender-affirming medical care for Transgender youth, and some additional tax cuts on top of the huge one passed last year. This threatens to put the state into a $461 million shortfall by 2028. &nbsp; Constituents may want to talk about this, but whoops, the session’s already over!&nbsp; It should also be noted that the legislators shortened their session primarily by cutting the so-called “breaks.”&nbsp; These are—or&nbsp;were—the days they would go home and listen to constituents, before heading back to Topeka to finish their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a political scientist, I strongly support building up the institutional capacity of state legislatures, including pay. But is it too much to ask for better service in exchange for the higher pay?&nbsp; With their frantic session this year, the Kansas Legislature failed to hold up their end of the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: What’s your hurry, Kansas legislators?

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

WASHINGTON, D.C. — It is exciting that I get to share my thoughts with you this week from Washington, D.C.! I traveled with four of our Kansas 4-H Youth Council delegates to attend the 2025 National 4-H Conference.

National 4-H Conference is a 98-year-old tradition administered by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture with the intent to develop the next generation of leaders.

Youth participants had the opportunity to prioritize several challenge questions that they were interested in working on and presenting a youth perspective briefing. A key component of the National 4-H Conference is to amplify youth voice so a Youth Leadership team assists in conference planning and a Collegiate Facilitator Team host and facilitate youth roundtable groups.

The 21 challenge questions provide the foundation for the roundtable groups to research and develop a presentation to share youth perspective ranging from Financial Literacy to Youth Engagement, Preparedness, Resilience to Empowering Youth in Rural Communities to Future Food and Agriculture Workforce. The roundtable group will develop a 45-minute briefing presentation for a related federal partner. I am so excited to see the thought-provoking ideas that come out of this work.

In addition to many hours of research, discussion, and practice, the youth have time for great opportunities to expand their experiences and network. We have congressional office visits scheduled, time to take in at least one of the Smithsonian museums, an evening tour of the monuments, and to participate in the flag-raising at USDA!

I am very appreciative of the opportunity to chaperone these accomplished young women, as well as the support of the Kansas 4-H Foundation and the planning by the Kansas 4-H office.

Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at 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&nbsp;is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran&nbsp;is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictWASHINGTON, D.C. — It is exciting that I get to share my thoughts with you this week from Washington, D.C.! I traveled with four of our Kansas 4-H Youth Council delegates to attend the 2025 National 4-H Conference.National 4-H Conference is a 98-year-old tradition administered by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture with the intent to develop the next generation of leaders.Youth participants had the opportunity to prioritize several challenge questions that they were interested in working on and presenting a youth perspective briefing. A key component of the National 4-H Conference is to amplify youth voice so a Youth Leadership team assists in conference planning and a Collegiate Facilitator Team host and facilitate youth roundtable groups.The 21 challenge questions provide the foundation for the roundtable groups to research and develop a presentation to share youth perspective ranging from Financial Literacy to Youth Engagement, Preparedness, Resilience to Empowering Youth in Rural Communities to Future Food and Agriculture Workforce. The roundtable group will develop a 45-minute briefing presentation for a related federal partner. I am so excited to see the thought-provoking ideas that come out of this work.In addition to many hours of research, discussion, and practice, the youth have time for great opportunities to expand their experiences and network. We have congressional office visits scheduled, time to take in at least one of the Smithsonian museums, an evening tour of the monuments, and to participate in the flag-raising at USDA!I am very appreciative of the opportunity to chaperone these accomplished young women, as well as the support of the Kansas 4-H Foundation and the planning by the Kansas 4-H office.Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Attending the 2025 National 4-H Conference

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.

Select the right tree for the site.

To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.

Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.

When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.

If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.

Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.

The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.

Remove all containers from the root ball.

Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.

Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.

Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.

Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.

Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.

Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.

Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District . Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District . Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictIf you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.Select the right tree for the site.To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.Dig a proper hole.Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.Remove all containers from the root ball.Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.Minimize pruning after planting.Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.Water the tree thoroughly.Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.Mulch around the tree.Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.Stake only when necessary.Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Spring tree planting

Kansas has long prided itself on being a state that welcomes businesses with open arms. Our low taxes, streamlined regulations, and dedicated workforce have made us a model for economic growth. I know this because I am from the same hometown, Agra, as Reed Larson, who is credited with being the historical leader of the Right to Work movement. Kansas has always relied on hard work and kept politics out of the workplace.

Our congressional delegation has long been united in preserving the Kansas way of doing business. For example, Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., recently pushed for legislation to reduce regulations on small businesses saying, “It’s time to slash the red tape and create a regulatory environment that ensures America’s small businesses, the backbone of our economy, thrive.”

However, a new threat to Kansas business owners has emerged in the form of a legislative framework that the Institute for the American Worker has dubbed the “PRO Act Lite,” modeled after the failed policies of Senator Bernie Sanders and other progressive lawmakers. While it may come with a new label, the substance remains the same. This proposal would drive up labor costs, stifle economic opportunity, and make it significantly harder for employers to create jobs.

The framework’s first damaging piece of legislation would impose strict deadlines for collective bargaining, forcing employers and unions to begin negotiations within 10 days and finalize agreements within months. It would remove the flexibility needed to reach fair agreements that work for both parties.

Rushing negotiations opens the door for government intervention in private sector contracts, potentially leading to mandated wages and working conditions without regard to business realities. Such heavy-handed tactics will disproportionately impact small businesses, which may lack the legal resources to navigate this complex process. I can tell you from firsthand knowledge that Kansas job creators do not want Washington dictating the terms of their employee contracts.

Some of the PRO Act Lite’s other proposals could be even worse. One of the most concerning is its push for ambush elections. This provision would require union elections to take place in less than 20 business days, severely limiting the time for employers to respond and provide accurate information to their employees. Unions often campaign in secret for months, but under the proposed plan, employers would be left scrambling to ensure workers hear both sides of the story. This lack of transparency undermines the decisionmaking process.

The framework also seeks to strip employers of their right to communicate with their employees about unionization. Under the proposal, mandatory meetings where employers present factual information about the impacts of union representation would be banned. Yet unions face no such restrictions.

Employer communication is critical for maintaining a balanced dialogue. Without it, workers may only hear one side of the story, namely, unrealistic promises by union organizers. Preventing employers from participating in this conversation is not only unfair but also a blatant infringement on free speech.

The PRO Act Lite also introduces lopsided civil penalties that target employers while giving unions a free pass. Employers could face fines of up to $50,000 per violation, with company executives held personally liable. Yet unions that commit unfair labor practices would face no equivalent punishment. This imbalance distorts the National Labor Relations Act’s original intent to ensure fair play for both employers and unions.

Kansas has shown time and time again that pro-business policies benefit workers and lead to economic prosperity. Rather than adopting failed policies from the past, we should focus on solutions that foster job creation and economic growth. By reducing regulatory burdens, supporting workforce development, and encouraging innovation, we can build a stronger future for all Kansans.

Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, represents the 110th District in the Kansas House of Representatives.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674507808499.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas has long prided itself on being a state that welcomes businesses with open arms. Our low taxes, streamlined regulations, and dedicated workforce have made us a model for economic growth. I know this because I am from the same hometown, Agra, as Reed Larson, who is credited with being the historical leader of the Right to Work movement. Kansas has always relied on hard work and kept politics out of the workplace.Our congressional delegation has long been united in preserving the Kansas way of doing business. For example, Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., recently pushed for legislation to reduce regulations on small businesses saying, “It’s time to slash the red tape and create a regulatory environment that ensures America’s small businesses, the backbone of our economy, thrive.”However, a new threat to Kansas business owners has emerged in the form of a legislative framework that the Institute for the American Worker has dubbed the “PRO Act Lite,” modeled after the failed policies of Senator Bernie Sanders and other progressive lawmakers. While it may come with a new label, the substance remains the same. This proposal would drive up labor costs, stifle economic opportunity, and make it significantly harder for employers to create jobs.The framework’s first damaging piece of legislation would impose strict deadlines for collective bargaining, forcing employers and unions to begin negotiations within 10 days and finalize agreements within months. It would remove the flexibility needed to reach fair agreements that work for both parties.Rushing negotiations opens the door for government intervention in private sector contracts, potentially leading to mandated wages and working conditions without regard to business realities. Such heavy-handed tactics will disproportionately impact small businesses, which may lack the legal resources to navigate this complex process. I can tell you from firsthand knowledge that Kansas job creators do not want Washington dictating the terms of their employee contracts.Some of the PRO Act Lite’s other proposals could be even worse. One of the most concerning is its push for ambush elections. This provision would require union elections to take place in less than 20 business days, severely limiting the time for employers to respond and provide accurate information to their employees. Unions often campaign in secret for months, but under the proposed plan, employers would be left scrambling to ensure workers hear both sides of the story. This lack of transparency undermines the decisionmaking process.The framework also seeks to strip employers of their right to communicate with their employees about unionization. Under the proposal, mandatory meetings where employers present factual information about the impacts of union representation would be banned. Yet unions face no such restrictions.Employer communication is critical for maintaining a balanced dialogue. Without it, workers may only hear one side of the story, namely, unrealistic promises by union organizers. Preventing employers from participating in this conversation is not only unfair but also a blatant infringement on free speech.The PRO Act Lite also introduces lopsided civil penalties that target employers while giving unions a free pass. Employers could face fines of up to $50,000 per violation, with company executives held personally liable. Yet unions that commit unfair labor practices would face no equivalent punishment. This imbalance distorts the National Labor Relations Act’s original intent to ensure fair play for both employers and unions.Kansas has shown time and time again that pro-business policies benefit workers and lead to economic prosperity. Rather than adopting failed policies from the past, we should focus on solutions that foster job creation and economic growth. By reducing regulatory burdens, supporting workforce development, and encouraging innovation, we can build a stronger future for all Kansans.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, represents the 110th District in the Kansas House of Representatives.

LETTER: Congress must reject proposed job-killing labor legislation

In the decades following the Great Depression, the Kelly Theatre remained a mainstay of Trego County entertainment and memory-making. During that time, much changed in the world, including ownership of this local business.

During the '40s, C.B. Kelly refurbished his theatre once again, hiring Ben Deines and crew to paint the ceiling tan and the walls blue and purple. He installed another new screen, and repaired seating. Clearly, patrons attended movies regularly.

Following Mr. Kelly’s death in 1951, his business passed to nephew Frank Wonner and long-time employee Avon Gregg. They continued nightly shows and weekend matinees until August 1956 when they sold it to Ted Elvert.

Ted completely remodeled following its purchase and reopened in early September. Changes included new gas heating, restrooms, and a nursery. Those attending movies for Hollywood thrills and buttery popcorn surely appreciated these upgrades.

By 1962, WaKeeney had the Y Drive-In Theatre. The owners, Mr. and Mrs. Glen Hladek consolidated the movie market by buying the Kelly Theatre, which they ran until leasing it to Mid-American Theatres in 1975.

Mid-American remodeled once again with new carpet and marquee. Unfortunately, entertainment interests evolved with new technology, ending the theater’s run in 1979. One of the last movies shown was Boys from Brazil. The facility deteriorated until the city tore it down in 2006.

Now the site awaits its renaissance as Kelly Plaza with bathroom facilities, a small stage, and access to food vendors. Supporters strive to make this a gathering place where patrons will generate new WaKeeney memories.

Though the glory days ended, many area residents shared fond memories of the theatre with committee member Janeen Brown. 

Judy Fabrizius Graham, Class of 1958, recalls going to the Kelly in the late '40s and early '50s, where many shows were Westerns. She recalled Hopalong Cassidy once came in person to the theatre. Her dad gave them a dime to pay admission with nothing left for refreshments. They sat downstairs where seats filled early and fast due to limited downtown parking. During Judy’s teens, classmate Selma Elvert’s parents owned the Kelly.

Larry Steckline, Class of 59, recalls going to the show there was a big deal. He said he always went with the boys—never with a date—to mostly Westerns. He said it was beautiful—"few were as nice as that theatre.”

Other '50s and '60s grads remembered going to the theatre on dates. One mentioned that managers played music before movies began, and attendees danced down front until the film started. Owner Cora Hladek ran a tight ship and expected young patrons to behave.

Two '60s graduates recall the school marching kids to the theatre for events. They didn’t recall live shows on stage at that point. One loved cartoons while her parents enjoyed popular news reels. She said she mostly attended films in grade school, not as a secondary student. She knew there was balcony, but she always sat downstairs with her friends or family. A '64 alum recalls girls attending the movies so boys would come sit with them. Another mentioned the pay phone booth on the courthouse grounds where kids called parents to pick them up after movies ended.

This landmark business served its community well.&nbsp;Scores of locals love remembering good times at the Kelly.

&nbsp;Once the re-designed plaza opens, area residents and guests can continue making happy memories.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744380185468.jpeg" alt="Modern day Kelly Plaza entrance. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Modern day Kelly Plaza entrance. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINIn the decades following the Great Depression, the Kelly Theatre remained a mainstay of Trego County entertainment and memory-making. During that time, much changed in the world, including ownership of this local business.During the '40s, C.B. Kelly refurbished his theatre once again, hiring Ben Deines and crew to paint the ceiling tan and the walls blue and purple. He installed another new screen, and repaired seating. Clearly, patrons attended movies regularly.Following Mr. Kelly’s death in 1951, his business passed to nephew Frank Wonner and long-time employee Avon Gregg. They continued nightly shows and weekend matinees until August 1956 when they sold it to Ted Elvert.Ted completely remodeled following its purchase and reopened in early September. Changes included new gas heating, restrooms, and a nursery. Those attending movies for Hollywood thrills and buttery popcorn surely appreciated these upgrades.By 1962, WaKeeney had the Y Drive-In Theatre. The owners, Mr. and Mrs. Glen Hladek consolidated the movie market by buying the Kelly Theatre, which they ran until leasing it to Mid-American Theatres in 1975.Mid-American remodeled once again with new carpet and marquee. Unfortunately, entertainment interests evolved with new technology, ending the theater’s run in 1979. One of the last movies shown was Boys from Brazil. The facility deteriorated until the city tore it down in 2006.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744380092107.jpeg" alt="Proposed Kelly Plaza design. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Kelly Plaza design. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Now the site awaits its renaissance as Kelly Plaza with bathroom facilities, a small stage, and access to food vendors. Supporters strive to make this a gathering place where patrons will generate new WaKeeney memories.Though the glory days ended, many area residents shared fond memories of the theatre with committee member Janeen Brown. Judy Fabrizius Graham, Class of 1958, recalls going to the Kelly in the late '40s and early '50s, where many shows were Westerns. She recalled Hopalong Cassidy once came in person to the theatre. Her dad gave them a dime to pay admission with nothing left for refreshments. They sat downstairs where seats filled early and fast due to limited downtown parking. During Judy’s teens, classmate Selma Elvert’s parents owned the Kelly.Larry Steckline, Class of 59, recalls going to the show there was a big deal. He said he always went with the boys—never with a date—to mostly Westerns. He said it was beautiful—"few were as nice as that theatre.”Other '50s and '60s grads remembered going to the theatre on dates. One mentioned that managers played music before movies began, and attendees danced down front until the film started. Owner Cora Hladek ran a tight ship and expected young patrons to behave.Two '60s graduates recall the school marching kids to the theatre for events. They didn’t recall live shows on stage at that point. One loved cartoons while her parents enjoyed popular news reels. She said she mostly attended films in grade school, not as a secondary student. She knew there was balcony, but she always sat downstairs with her friends or family. A '64 alum recalls girls attending the movies so boys would come sit with them. Another mentioned the pay phone booth on the courthouse grounds where kids called parents to pick them up after movies ended.This landmark business served its community well.&nbsp;Scores of locals love remembering good times at the Kelly.&nbsp;Once the re-designed plaza opens, area residents and guests can continue making happy memories.

MADORIN: Kelly Theatre Part 4

Ellis County Fair board members have been busy the last few months reaching out to old and potential new sponsors. Even with their efforts, fundraising has fallen short of their goal this year by $25,000.

The Ellis County Fair is one of the longest standing events in Ellis County starting back in the late 1800s. 

County fairs were a way to unite all the cities, towns, and villages to celebrate those that lived within the county lines. They also displayed their best harvest and crafts. 

The Ellis County Fair started in the now city limits of Hays, at one time the south end on Main Street. Land was donated to the county by the Schenk family and now sits on its current location.

The present Ellis County Fair provides entertainment to go along with all the entries so it will draw people to come view all the exhibits. The Ellis County 4-H club members work hard on not only their livestock exhibits, but other entries such as needlework, foods, arts and crafts, woodworking, and photography. They are judged on their entries teaching youth important life skills that will help them evolve into well-rounded adults.

While the fair has grandstand entertainment that requires a ticket for attendance, there are a number of family-orientated events that are offered free to the public, but still cost money to bring them in. Some of those are the petting zoo, live music on the midway, contests such as cornhole, hot dog eating contest, pie eating contest, kids’ games, Lego contest, wagon rides from Clydesdales, and a balloon artist, to name a few. 

The few fair board members also work on updating the fairgrounds every year to make it a nice facility. They have donated countless hours and personal equipment and supplies to make the fairgrounds a great attraction.

What we ask of the community is to support the fair. If you are able to donate to help, make this long-standing tradition continue operating and growing, it would be a great benefit to our community. There is no donation too big or small. We have a large number of businesses and individuals that have sponsored the county fair for countless years already, and for that we are grateful for their generosity to support this tradition.

If you are able to support the Ellis County Fair, please contact a board member; member listing is found on their website: <a href="https://ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair">Another Day in Fairadise! </a>&nbsp;You can also email them at elliscountyfair@gmail.com.

The Ellis County fair runs from July 11-19, 2025. If you are not able to donate, consider entering and competing at the fair!

Jill Pfannenstiel Vice-President, Ellis County Fair Association

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Fair board members have been busy the last few months reaching out to old and potential new sponsors. Even with their efforts, fundraising has fallen short of their goal this year by $25,000.The Ellis County Fair is one of the longest standing events in Ellis County starting back in the late 1800s. County fairs were a way to unite all the cities, towns, and villages to celebrate those that lived within the county lines. They also displayed their best harvest and crafts. The Ellis County Fair started in the now city limits of Hays, at one time the south end on Main Street. Land was donated to the county by the Schenk family and now sits on its current location.The present Ellis County Fair provides entertainment to go along with all the entries so it will draw people to come view all the exhibits. The Ellis County 4-H club members work hard on not only their livestock exhibits, but other entries such as needlework, foods, arts and crafts, woodworking, and photography. They are judged on their entries teaching youth important life skills that will help them evolve into well-rounded adults.While the fair has grandstand entertainment that requires a ticket for attendance, there are a number of family-orientated events that are offered free to the public, but still cost money to bring them in. Some of those are the petting zoo, live music on the midway, contests such as cornhole, hot dog eating contest, pie eating contest, kids’ games, Lego contest, wagon rides from Clydesdales, and a balloon artist, to name a few. The few fair board members also work on updating the fairgrounds every year to make it a nice facility. They have donated countless hours and personal equipment and supplies to make the fairgrounds a great attraction.What we ask of the community is to support the fair. If you are able to donate to help, make this long-standing tradition continue operating and growing, it would be a great benefit to our community. There is no donation too big or small. We have a large number of businesses and individuals that have sponsored the county fair for countless years already, and for that we are grateful for their generosity to support this tradition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744623053908.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>If you are able to support the Ellis County Fair, please contact a board member; member listing is found on their website: <a href="https://ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair">Another Day in Fairadise! </a>&nbsp;You can also email them at elliscountyfair@gmail.com.The Ellis County fair runs from July 11-19, 2025. If you are not able to donate, consider entering and competing at the fair!Jill Pfannenstiel Vice-President, Ellis County Fair Association

LETTER: Ellis County Fair short $25,000 on fundraising efforts

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Volatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. Upcoming monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.

These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.

The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon Central time, via Zoom. There is no fee, but registration is required. If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day.

You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register, go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>.&nbsp;It only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.

If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences, there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc.

Go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a> in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.

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&nbsp; is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp; is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictVolatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. Upcoming monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon Central time, via Zoom. There is no fee, but registration is required. If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day.You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register, go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>.&nbsp;It only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences, there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc. Go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a> in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.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: 'Winning the Game' grain marketing webinars

Sixteen months from now Kansans will vote on a state constitutional amendment that will, if passed, institute popular elections for state supreme court justices. This possibility disturbs many Kansans, and it’s worth trying to understand why.

Today, Kansas has a mostly merit-based system for choosing supreme court justices; while the governor makes the appointment, they are required to choose from list of candidates prepared by a non-partisan committee of lawyers. It’s a fairly unique process, though some other states also take a similarly mixed approach to the filling of state judicial positions.

The idea of shifting to straightforward competitive elections for choosing justices is hardly unknown, however; 21 states have that system (which was also the selection process for judges that Thomas Jefferson preferred, for whatever that’s worth). So what is the fear?

Most say they’re concerned that judicial elections would result in huge amounts of money flowing into Kansas to influence voters one way or another, as was the case recently in Wisconsin, where over $100 million was spent in the last Supreme Court election. 

The focus here is on the profound inequality and potential corruption which comes along with such expensive political races. These elements of contemporary politics are especially inappropriate for the judicial system, or so the argument goes, since it needs to stand as a neutral, non-partisan arbiter of constitutional disputes.

The first part of that fear of indisputably true; while direct connections between large campaign donations and quid-pro-quo-type corruption are rare, the reality of money’s indirect influence on the choices which elected leaders make is all but impossible to deny. But that said, I don’t know if the second part of that concern matters as much as some believe.

Basically, I’m dubious that the judicial branches of our state governments (much like the federal judiciary) have ever been or could ever be the entirely “neutral, non-partisan arbiters” of the law that many want to believe them to be. 

It’s not as though Governor Kelly, when there was a vacancy of the Kansas Supreme Court, didn’t carefully investigate the suggested nominees, so as to avoid choosing someone ideologically committed to an agenda she opposed.

Which I think points to the real problem with adopting judicial elections in our current environment of essentially unregulated campaign money.

 Put frankly: who are the sorts of people who are going to want to serve in the highest levels of our state’s judicial system if doing so will require extensive commitments to raising money and campaigning? Obviously, it’s more likely to appeal to those who, like most politicians generally, desire to promote specific political and legal agendas. So the result of electing justices may not be a corrupting of the judiciary, but rather simply making more obvious the political biases that everyone involved already possesses.

Maintaining a constitutional place for unelected judges in a democratic republic is no easy feat. There needs to be a role for public input; leaving justices entirely unaccountable to those whom their decisions affect is, I think, a sure recipe for discontent. 

But on the other hand, inviting people entirely committed to their political agendas to put themselves forward as the judicial candidates we choose from could undermine the dispositions upon which the courts’ legitimacy depends. 

In Kansas, state judges are already subject to retention votes, though they are almost never removed for that reason. Perhaps taking more seriously that aspect of the judicial selection process—by, for example, imposing term limits—could make for a more balanced reform of the system, rather than replacing it entirely?

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sixteen months from now Kansans will vote on a state constitutional amendment that will, if passed, institute popular elections for state supreme court justices. This possibility disturbs many Kansans, and it’s worth trying to understand why.Today, Kansas has a mostly merit-based system for choosing supreme court justices; while the governor makes the appointment, they are required to choose from list of candidates prepared by a non-partisan committee of lawyers. It’s a fairly unique process, though some other states also take a similarly mixed approach to the filling of state judicial positions.The idea of shifting to straightforward competitive elections for choosing justices is hardly unknown, however; 21 states have that system (which was also the selection process for judges that Thomas Jefferson preferred, for whatever that’s worth). So what is the fear?Most say they’re concerned that judicial elections would result in huge amounts of money flowing into Kansas to influence voters one way or another, as was the case recently in Wisconsin, where over $100 million was spent in the last Supreme Court election. The focus here is on the profound inequality and potential corruption which comes along with such expensive political races. These elements of contemporary politics are especially inappropriate for the judicial system, or so the argument goes, since it needs to stand as a neutral, non-partisan arbiter of constitutional disputes.The first part of that fear of indisputably true; while direct connections between large campaign donations and quid-pro-quo-type corruption are rare, the reality of money’s indirect influence on the choices which elected leaders make is all but impossible to deny. But that said, I don’t know if the second part of that concern matters as much as some believe.Basically, I’m dubious that the judicial branches of our state governments (much like the federal judiciary) have ever been or could ever be the entirely “neutral, non-partisan arbiters” of the law that many want to believe them to be. It’s not as though Governor Kelly, when there was a vacancy of the Kansas Supreme Court, didn’t carefully investigate the suggested nominees, so as to avoid choosing someone ideologically committed to an agenda she opposed.Which I think points to the real problem with adopting judicial elections in our current environment of essentially unregulated campaign money. Put frankly: who are the sorts of people who are going to want to serve in the highest levels of our state’s judicial system if doing so will require extensive commitments to raising money and campaigning? Obviously, it’s more likely to appeal to those who, like most politicians generally, desire to promote specific political and legal agendas. So the result of electing justices may not be a corrupting of the judiciary, but rather simply making more obvious the political biases that everyone involved already possesses.Maintaining a constitutional place for unelected judges in a democratic republic is no easy feat. There needs to be a role for public input; leaving justices entirely unaccountable to those whom their decisions affect is, I think, a sure recipe for discontent. But on the other hand, inviting people entirely committed to their political agendas to put themselves forward as the judicial candidates we choose from could undermine the dispositions upon which the courts’ legitimacy depends. In Kansas, state judges are already subject to retention votes, though they are almost never removed for that reason. Perhaps taking more seriously that aspect of the judicial selection process—by, for example, imposing term limits—could make for a more balanced reform of the system, rather than replacing it entirely?Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: What’s the real problem with electing justices?

Last week it was Veto Session for the Legislature, as it was the last week of the 2025 regular session. During this week the House of Representatives and Senate voted to override bills vetoed by the Governor. Overall the House of Representatives overrode vetoes on 13 bills, detailed below is a sample of four bills from that list.

· First is House Bill (HB) 2240. This bill prohibits state agencies from seeking or implementing any public assistance program waiver, or other authorization, from the federal government that expands eligibility for public assistance programs or increases costs to the state. The bill also prohibits potential changes to services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities without express consent or approval from either the Legislature or the Legislative Coordinating Council.

· Second is HB 2217. This legislation expands the scope of the investigatory powers of the Inspector General within the Office of the Attorney General to all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The bill also grants the Inspector General the power to subpoena, administer oaths, and execute search warrants. The bill would also add and amend several definitions and make technical, clarifying, and conforming amendments to state law.

· Third is Senate Bill (SB) 125, the state’s budget bill for fiscal years (FY) 2025 and 2026. The Governor made 40 line-item vetoes, and the Legislature overrode 15 of these.

First is the $3 million State General Fund (SGF) for the Pregnancy Compassion Awareness Program in FY 2026. Second is $1 million SGF for Purple UAS certification innovation grant in FY 2026, aimed at growing the drone manufacturing industry in Kansas. Third and last is the bonding authority for construction of a new State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, critical to agriculture in our state.

· Fourth is SB 29. This piece of legislation would make several changes to current law. First is that it would require the Secretary of Health and Environment to have probable cause, supported by evidence, before taking action to prevent the spread or introduction of infectious diseases. Second, parties aggrieved by said actions would be permitted to pursue civil action against the Secretary of Health and Environment, or any local health officer. Third, local health officers and joint boards would be limited to issuing recommendations against public gatherings to control the spread of disease. Fourth and last would be eliminating the ability for either the Secretary of Health and Environment, or local health officers, from ordering&nbsp;law enforcement assistance regarding those orders.

I voted in favor of overriding the Governor’s veto for each of these bills.

Even though it was Veto Session both chambers of the Legislature were still conferencing on bills. When the conference committees on said bills are finished, and significant changes to the bill are made, a conference committee report (CCR) is created, which is the final version of the bill before enrollment to the Governor. The topics of these CCRs ranged from changing tax policy to streamlining childcare regulations. Ten conference committee reports were voted on this week and detailed below is a sample of four.

First is the CCR for House Bill 2045. This legislation creates the Office of Early Childhood, which will serve as the sole office charged with regulating early childcare in Kansas and consolidates current efforts by several state agencies.

Second is the CCR for House Bill 2125. This bill reauthorizes the statewide school property mill levy, changes certification dates for property tax filings at the county level, extends state reimbursements for mailing and printing costs incurred by county clerks on tax notifications, and eliminates filing fees for repeat appeals, over different years, with the State Board of Tax Appeals.

Third is the CCR for House Bill 2335. This legislation creates a cap on several housing tax credits and enables transference of the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit, even retroactively back to tax year 2022.

Fourth and last is the CCR for House Bill 2007. This is the aforementioned reconciliation bill for the 2025 legislative session, which means that the bill extends authority to the Office of Revisors, the legal team that drafts laws for the legislature, to reconcile potential contradictions created by laws passed during the session.

Two weeks ago, my office had mailed constituents that the State Treasurer’s office had identified as possessing right to unclaimed property. Such property ranges from bank accounts to dividends, which had been forgotten and unclaimed. However, a significant number of letters mailed were returned to my office by the postal service due to the recipient no longer residing at the address. Due to this I am noting it here on the newsletter. To verify if you have unclaimed property and to initiate the claim process, please visit the unclaimed property website at: <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/</a>.

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

Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741110863614.png" alt="State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>April 13, 2025 TopekaGOVERNOR VETO OVERRIDESLast week it was Veto Session for the Legislature, as it was the last week of the 2025 regular session. During this week the House of Representatives and Senate voted to override bills vetoed by the Governor. Overall the House of Representatives overrode vetoes on 13 bills, detailed below is a sample of four bills from that list.· First is House Bill (HB) 2240. This bill prohibits state agencies from seeking or implementing any public assistance program waiver, or other authorization, from the federal government that expands eligibility for public assistance programs or increases costs to the state. The bill also prohibits potential changes to services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities without express consent or approval from either the Legislature or the Legislative Coordinating Council.· Second is HB 2217. This legislation expands the scope of the investigatory powers of the Inspector General within the Office of the Attorney General to all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The bill also grants the Inspector General the power to subpoena, administer oaths, and execute search warrants. The bill would also add and amend several definitions and make technical, clarifying, and conforming amendments to state law.· Third is Senate Bill (SB) 125, the state’s budget bill for fiscal years (FY) 2025 and 2026. The Governor made 40 line-item vetoes, and the Legislature overrode 15 of these. I will highlight a few of them here. First is the $3 million State General Fund (SGF) for the Pregnancy Compassion Awareness Program in FY 2026. Second is $1 million SGF for Purple UAS certification innovation grant in FY 2026, aimed at growing the drone manufacturing industry in Kansas. Third and last is the bonding authority for construction of a new State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, critical to agriculture in our state.· Fourth is SB 29. This piece of legislation would make several changes to current law. First is that it would require the Secretary of Health and Environment to have probable cause, supported by evidence, before taking action to prevent the spread or introduction of infectious diseases. Second, parties aggrieved by said actions would be permitted to pursue civil action against the Secretary of Health and Environment, or any local health officer. Third, local health officers and joint boards would be limited to issuing recommendations against public gatherings to control the spread of disease. Fourth and last would be eliminating the ability for either the Secretary of Health and Environment, or local health officers, from ordering&nbsp;law enforcement assistance regarding those orders.I voted in favor of overriding the Governor’s veto for each of these bills.CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORTSEven though it was Veto Session both chambers of the Legislature were still conferencing on bills. When the conference committees on said bills are finished, and significant changes to the bill are made, a conference committee report (CCR) is created, which is the final version of the bill before enrollment to the Governor. The topics of these CCRs ranged from changing tax policy to streamlining childcare regulations. Ten conference committee reports were voted on this week and detailed below is a sample of four.First is the CCR for House Bill 2045. This legislation creates the Office of Early Childhood, which will serve as the sole office charged with regulating early childcare in Kansas and consolidates current efforts by several state agencies. Second is the CCR for House Bill 2125. This bill reauthorizes the statewide school property mill levy, changes certification dates for property tax filings at the county level, extends state reimbursements for mailing and printing costs incurred by county clerks on tax notifications, and eliminates filing fees for repeat appeals, over different years, with the State Board of Tax Appeals.Third is the CCR for House Bill 2335. This legislation creates a cap on several housing tax credits and enables transference of the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit, even retroactively back to tax year 2022. Fourth and last is the CCR for House Bill 2007. This is the aforementioned reconciliation bill for the 2025 legislative session, which means that the bill extends authority to the Office of Revisors, the legal team that drafts laws for the legislature, to reconcile potential contradictions created by laws passed during the session.UNCLAIMED PROPERTYTwo weeks ago, my office had mailed constituents that the State Treasurer’s office had identified as possessing right to unclaimed property. Such property ranges from bank accounts to dividends, which had been forgotten and unclaimed. However, a significant number of letters mailed were returned to my office by the postal service due to the recipient no longer residing at the address. Due to this I am noting it here on the newsletter. To verify if you have unclaimed property and to initiate the claim process, please visit the unclaimed property website at: <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/</a>.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, April 13, 2025

Well, it’s time again for both the largest and the smallest birds in Kansas to make their spring appearances. 

Turkey Vultures, being of course the largest, are here already. There are probably more yet to come as they make their way back from their winter digs in South America. 

Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, being the smallest, also winter in South America and are due back in Kansas around the middle of April; the earliest sighting last spring was on April 14 in Wichita. 

I have written about turkey vultures in Kansas numerous times over the years, and about their importance as God’s cleanup-crew; with digestive enzymes that can safely digest even the sourest and rankest roadkill, they provide a necessary service to our environment. They are also mesmerizing to watch as they soar and float on the Kansas winds. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsWell, it’s time again for both the largest and the smallest birds in Kansas to make their spring appearances. Turkey Vultures, being of course the largest, are here already. There are probably more yet to come as they make their way back from their winter digs in South America. Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, being the smallest, also winter in South America and are due back in Kansas around the middle of April; the earliest sighting last spring was on April 14 in Wichita. I have written about turkey vultures in Kansas numerous times over the years, and about their importance as God’s cleanup-crew; with digestive enzymes that can safely digest even the sourest and rankest roadkill, they provide a necessary service to our environment. They are also mesmerizing to watch as they soar and float on the Kansas winds. But today I want to concentrate more on the smallest birds among us, the hummingbirds.At the annual McPherson Spring Garden Show a couple years back, Mike Daniels, owner of Brook’s Landscape LLC spoke about “Gardening for Friends,” and his main topic was hummingbirds and gardening to attract them. With wings that beat over 50 times per second, hummingbirds can make the trip across the Gulf of Mexico back to the US in 18 – 22 hours, resting on boats and oil derricks if necessary. It’s always been said that hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, but Daniels said that because of the way they see colors, any color using red in its spectrum will attract them, so orange, yellow and purple should all work as well.We often design our entire back yards foliage to attract hummingbirds and hang nectar feeders to cater to their “sweet tooth,” and are sometimes rewarded with “close encounters” as the little blighters become comfortable with our presence. Hummingbirds were much more prevalent in Ohio where I grew up, and we often saw three or four at once at our feeders. One feeder hung in front of a back porch near our kitchen, and the little hummers learned to hover outside a nearby window to get our attention when the feeder was empty. Once after filling the feeder, I slipped quietly out onto the porch and one hungry little hummer actually drank from it as I stood there motionless, holding the feeder at arm’s length.Hummingbirds also have a voracious appetite for insects and have actually been observed robbing trapped bugs from spider webs. They make nests from thistle down and dandelion leaves and weave it all together with spider silk from spider webs. The female usually sits on two jellybean-sized eggs and they can have two broods a year.Daniels suggests trying to attract them with plants and using feeders as a backup. He says to keep the feeders clean and free from mold and dirt, and when mixing the nectar, boil the water and add sugar at the rate of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water to make a syrup that does not sour as quickly as thicker sugar water. Hang feeders in partial shade several feet apart to help keep the males from fighting and hang them where cats can’t get to them. We’ve all heard it said that keeping feeders out too late in the fall might encourage hummingbirds to stay later than they should and miss their fall migration. Daniels told us that is not a problem, as the little guys’ God-given instinct and the absence of insects will send them on their way south right on time. Hummingbirds love petunias and trumpet vine, and salvia, angelonia, morning glory, beard tongue, coral bells and bee balm are also very attractive to them; these plants will&nbsp;all attract butterflies as well. Stay away from insecticides and pesticides if possible and use herbicides sparingly.Yes, it’s time for the greatest and the smallest in the Kansas skies to appear once again from their winter homes far to the south. Look to the sky as the air warms on spring mornings and you’re bound to spot vultures effortlessly soaring above as they ride the rising columns of warm air known as thermals. Get your hummingbird feeders cleaned and ready and spruce up your lawn with a few new plants, and prepare to be entertained by the buzzing sound of little wings and the chattering of jousting hummingbirds as they chase each other across your back yard. What&nbsp;a great time to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Opinion