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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s hard to believe that July 25 marks my one-year anniversary of becoming an extension agent. This year went by so fast! I’ve been so blessed by making the move to K-State Research and Extension. I love my job and have gotten to do so many fun things this past year. I started right after the Ellis County Fair last year, and as I sit here writing this, we are wrapping up my first county fair as an extension agent. I have been so impressed by the youth in our community. Watching the kids work with their animals, make projects, and helping out in the food stand has been such a pleasure. So many volunteers work hard to bring the Ellis County Fair together.One of the things that is so enjoyable about my job is no two days are ever the same. Some days are office days and other days I don’t see my office. You never know what question will come in either by phone, email or in person at the office. Questions are great because if I don’t know the answer then I do the research to get the answer. It is safe to say I learn something new every day. Hearing what other people are curious about makes my job interesting. Keep asking questions!One of the highlights of my first year was the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class held earlier this year. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is a strength training class for older adults that helps them with balance, strength and flexibility. Sixteen men and women signed up for the class and not one person quit during the 8 weeks. They all finished! Now that is perseverance! Yes, life happens and throws us curveballs. Some participants had to miss a few classes, but they all finished. Not only did they all finish, but a group of them continued to meet and do the exercises on their own! We had so much fun during the class telling jokes and trying new recipes. I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Another class will begin in late August. Watch for the announcement.Programming for older people has been a pleasure, and going into the schools has been fun also. Since my background is in early childhood, I really enjoy being able to go into the childcare setting, libraries and schools to deliver programming around health and nutrition. Glo-germ handwashing, field to fork, blender bike and organwise are a few of the programs I have offered for the youth.I look forward to many more years as an extension agent and continuing to form relationships with community partners. Goals for my second year include offering more signature programs from K-State such as Walk with Ease, Dining with Diabetes and Med Instead of Meds. I will also get trained in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Level 2. Mental health programming and youth programming continue to be important as well.Thank you for a great first year!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

KOERNER: First year flies by as an extension agent

July 24th marks International Self-Care Day. But what exactly is “self-care?” 

Many people think of a bubble bath or glass of wine when the term is brought up, but self-care can be much more than the occasional treat. When you take care of your whole self - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually - self-care is being practiced. 

It can be as simple as going on a walk each morning, making time to socialize with friends, or learning about a subject that fascinates you. Other areas involve financial self-care and environmental self-care. These can be budgeting and putting money into savings or decluttering your home and cutting back time on social media.

In today’s world, stress is around every corner. Trying to keep up with the to-do list is an evergreen task and adding self-care to the agenda may seem overwhelming. Although I challenge you to take a new perspective. 

The foundation of self-care is prioritizing your obligations beginning with you. 

This concept allows you to understand what matters most to you and gives you the ability to say yes to things that fulfill you. It creates the opportunity to achieve a healthier mind and body, and it helps you cope with daily stressors. 

In turn, you might find yourself having an easier time caring for your family, creating memories with friends, and increasing productivity at work. Just like the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so it is important to fill yours first.

So, how can you observe International Self-Care Day? 

You can start a list of practical ways to get into the habit of self-care, offer support to a loved one in need of self-care, or explore a few stress management techniques.

Whatever you decide to do, regularly prioritizing self-care can majorly impact your mental, physical, and emotional health.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>July 24th marks International Self-Care Day. But what exactly is “self-care?” Many people think of a bubble bath or glass of wine when the term is brought up, but self-care can be much more than the occasional treat. When you take care of your whole self - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually - self-care is being practiced. This looks different for everyone. It can be as simple as going on a walk each morning, making time to socialize with friends, or learning about a subject that fascinates you. Other areas involve financial self-care and environmental self-care. These can be budgeting and putting money into savings or decluttering your home and cutting back time on social media.In today’s world, stress is around every corner. Trying to keep up with the to-do list is an evergreen task and adding self-care to the agenda may seem overwhelming. Although I challenge you to take a new perspective. The foundation of self-care is prioritizing your obligations beginning with you. This concept allows you to understand what matters most to you and gives you the ability to say yes to things that fulfill you. It creates the opportunity to achieve a healthier mind and body, and it helps you cope with daily stressors. In turn, you might find yourself having an easier time caring for your family, creating memories with friends, and increasing productivity at work. Just like the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so it is important to fill yours first.So, how can you observe International Self-Care Day? You can start a list of practical ways to get into the habit of self-care, offer support to a loved one in need of self-care, or explore a few stress management techniques.Whatever you decide to do, regularly prioritizing self-care can majorly impact your mental, physical, and emotional health.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: July 24 is International Self-Care Day

Whew! The Barton County Fair was a busy, fun, and successful week! Our Country Pride, County Wide was definitely on display!

Some of my favorite moments were watching big kids help small ones and when fierce competitors were teaching one another how to show their animals so that they are all better. Listening to 4-H members talk to judges about their projects with the successes and learning moments from less than successful is always great to hear.

We had several youth step into bigger leadership roles from presenting learning activities about water to serving as co-superintendents or assistant superintendents.

If you happened to be in the buildings on judging days, you probably saw 4-H members sitting down to review their projects with a judge. Consultative judging is an important aspect of the learning process for 4-H.&nbsp;Judges consider the project itself based on a project standard along with the learning opportunities that led to a fair entry. 

For our youth in the Foods and Nutrition project, they are hopefully sharing about helping with meals during the year, learning new cooking techniques and skills, or learning about nutrition. All of that goes into a judge’s decision when determining a ribbon placing. 

4-H uses the Danish System of ribbon placement which means:

Purple – Outstanding on all standards Blue – Exceeds minimum standards, minor improvements can be made Red – Meets minimum standards, needs improvements White – Fails to meet minimum standards

An important skill for a judge is to be able to give feedback to the youth that is both constructive and encouraging.

For youth nine and older who receive a purple ribbon (in most cases), they have the opportunity to enter that exhibit at the Kansas State Fair. I am excited to see all of the entries we will have!

I want to say Thank You to the Barton County Fair Association, the Friends of the Fair group, and superintendents for their countless hours! Families of 4-H members who volunteer for set up and clean up, and jump in to help whenever and wherever are invaluable!

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;4-H Youth Development Agent,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran,&nbsp;4-H Youth Development Agent,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Whew! The Barton County Fair was a busy, fun, and successful week! Our Country Pride, County Wide was definitely on display!Some of my favorite moments were watching big kids help small ones and when fierce competitors were teaching one another how to show their animals so that they are all better. Listening to 4-H members talk to judges about their projects with the successes and learning moments from less than successful is always great to hear.We had several youth step into bigger leadership roles from presenting learning activities about water to serving as co-superintendents or assistant superintendents.If you happened to be in the buildings on judging days, you probably saw 4-H members sitting down to review their projects with a judge. Consultative judging is an important aspect of the learning process for 4-H.&nbsp;Judges consider the project itself based on a project standard along with the learning opportunities that led to a fair entry. For our youth in the Foods and Nutrition project, they are hopefully sharing about helping with meals during the year, learning new cooking techniques and skills, or learning about nutrition. All of that goes into a judge’s decision when determining a ribbon placing. 4-H uses the Danish System of ribbon placement which means:Purple – Outstanding on all standards Blue – Exceeds minimum standards, minor improvements can be made Red – Meets minimum standards, needs improvements White – Fails to meet minimum standards An important skill for a judge is to be able to give feedback to the youth that is both constructive and encouraging.For youth nine and older who receive a purple ribbon (in most cases), they have the opportunity to enter that exhibit at the Kansas State Fair. I am excited to see all of the entries we will have!I want to say Thank You to the Barton County Fair Association, the Friends of the Fair group, and superintendents for their countless hours! Families of 4-H members who volunteer for set up and clean up, and jump in to help whenever and wherever are invaluable!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: Barton County Fair Week wrap-up

By MICHAEL SMITH Emporia State University

Do we need to re-learn how we merge on the freeway?&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Transportation says yes.&nbsp; But are we open to re-thinking something we have done the same way for years?

Since 2016, KDOT has been promoting the “<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/bureaus/kcmetro/zipper-merge.asp" target="_blank">zipper merge</a>” for the construction zones along US 69 in Johnson County.&nbsp; Now, they also want us to use it along sections of K-10 that are under construction between Olathe and Lawrence, near Eudora.&nbsp; They may expand it further.

Around here, most use the early merge.&nbsp; When we see that a lane is closed, we move over into the open lane as quickly as possible.&nbsp; We treat drivers that do not do this as “cheaters.”&nbsp; Any attempt to cut in line may be met with a refusal to open a space, dirty looks, or even a famous, obscene hand gesture. Once, in construction around Olathe, I saw a semi truck driver steer his truck so it was straddling both lanes, just to block these line cutters. Didn’t the teachers in elementary school teach us not to cut in line?&nbsp;

They did, but they also taught us to take turns. The early merge is fine if there is not much traffic, but when things get busy, drivers may slow down looking for a chance to merge early, slowing traffic further or even causing accidents.&nbsp; The zipper merge calls for drivers to stay in their lane until the merge point, and then take turns, one car from each lane at a time, so that the traffic closes up like the teeth of a zipper.&nbsp; No more viewing drivers who stay in the to-be-closed lane as “cheaters,” no more blocking, no more gesturing.&nbsp; Signs warn drivers “Stay in your lane,” and “Take turns merging.”

Traffic is an excellent example of how what we think is intuitively right, is often wrong.&nbsp; It reminds me of a debate I had with a family member when they were younger.&nbsp; Frustrated that we were running late, they suggested that the city needed to re-time the traffic light where we were waiting.&nbsp; I replied that a citywide traffic study might be in order.&nbsp; Baffled, they replied that no such thing was necessary–this particular traffic light need only be reprogrammed.&nbsp; I disagreed.&nbsp; After all,&nbsp; re-timing just&nbsp; one traffic light could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets, which in turn could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets to those streets, and so on–a ripple effect that could be felt for many miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This complexity is why study of traffic is an academic subject in its own right– just ask the experts at K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://transport.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">University Transportation Center.</a>&nbsp; Traffic flows are complicated, and easing congestion often calls on drivers to re-learn what we think we know, among other changes.

This is policymaking in the real world– complicated, sometimes counterintuitive challenges to our established ways of thinking and doing,&nbsp; which rely on the assumption that people are ready to make the change.&nbsp; Sometimes, half of us embrace the change and half of us do not, creating further confusion if not outright chaos, and making us angry with one another.&nbsp; This helps explain how issues that should not be part of the culture war get sucked into it–issues like gas stoves or Covid-19 protocols.

There are bigger problems in the world today than how we merge at construction sites, but few have such a direct, immediate impact on our everyday lives–or exemplify just how difficult policy change is.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL SMITH Emporia State UniversityDo we need to re-learn how we merge on the freeway?&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Transportation says yes.&nbsp; But are we open to re-thinking something we have done the same way for years?Since 2016, KDOT has been promoting the “<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/bureaus/kcmetro/zipper-merge.asp" target="_blank">zipper merge</a>” for the construction zones along US 69 in Johnson County.&nbsp; Now, they also want us to use it along sections of K-10 that are under construction between Olathe and Lawrence, near Eudora.&nbsp; They may expand it further.Around here, most use the early merge.&nbsp; When we see that a lane is closed, we move over into the open lane as quickly as possible.&nbsp; We treat drivers that do not do this as “cheaters.”&nbsp; Any attempt to cut in line may be met with a refusal to open a space, dirty looks, or even a famous, obscene hand gesture. Once, in construction around Olathe, I saw a semi truck driver steer his truck so it was straddling both lanes, just to block these line cutters. Didn’t the teachers in elementary school teach us not to cut in line?&nbsp;They did, but they also taught us to take turns. The early merge is fine if there is not much traffic, but when things get busy, drivers may slow down looking for a chance to merge early, slowing traffic further or even causing accidents.&nbsp; The zipper merge calls for drivers to stay in their lane until the merge point, and then take turns, one car from each lane at a time, so that the traffic closes up like the teeth of a zipper.&nbsp; No more viewing drivers who stay in the to-be-closed lane as “cheaters,” no more blocking, no more gesturing.&nbsp; Signs warn drivers “Stay in your lane,” and “Take turns merging.”Traffic is an excellent example of how what we think is intuitively right, is often wrong.&nbsp; It reminds me of a debate I had with a family member when they were younger.&nbsp; Frustrated that we were running late, they suggested that the city needed to re-time the traffic light where we were waiting.&nbsp; I replied that a citywide traffic study might be in order.&nbsp; Baffled, they replied that no such thing was necessary–this particular traffic light need only be reprogrammed.&nbsp; I disagreed.&nbsp; After all,&nbsp; re-timing just&nbsp; one traffic light could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets, which in turn could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets to those streets, and so on–a ripple effect that could be felt for many miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;This complexity is why study of traffic is an academic subject in its own right– just ask the experts at K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://transport.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">University Transportation Center.</a>&nbsp; Traffic flows are complicated, and easing congestion often calls on drivers to re-learn what we think we know, among other changes.This is policymaking in the real world– complicated, sometimes counterintuitive challenges to our established ways of thinking and doing,&nbsp; which rely on the assumption that people are ready to make the change.&nbsp; Sometimes, half of us embrace the change and half of us do not, creating further confusion if not outright chaos, and making us angry with one another.&nbsp; This helps explain how issues that should not be part of the culture war get sucked into it–issues like gas stoves or Covid-19 protocols.There are bigger problems in the world today than how we merge at construction sites, but few have such a direct, immediate impact on our everyday lives–or exemplify just how difficult policy change is.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: KDOT’s zipper merge is policymaking in the real world

Typically, wheat growers will keep back enough of their wheat seed to plant again, but also they may be looking to replace a variety in an effort to reduce seed borne diseases, and to improve genetics for various factors including but not limited to yield and disease prevention.

Each year many county agents put out wheat variety demonstration plots and conduct field days to view and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of varieties and wheat production issues. Most demonstration plots are also harvested.

To see the complete yield results and details of the cultural practices go to our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

 This demonstration wheat plot should not be used solely for making your variety selection decision. It is more for showing and talking about the varieties each year at the Field Day.

Instead I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based on the K-State Agricultural Experiment Station's replicated wheat performance tests. 

They are randomized replicated trials, meaning each variety is randomly planted in four different spots in the field; all seed is either foundation or registered. Replicated field trials will account for or smooth out the variability within a field, and thus are more accurate. These results from the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations can also be found on our web site.

Yield should not be the only consideration in your selection, and multiple years of data should be considered. Some other important considerations are stripe and leaf rust resistance, drought tolerance, winter hardiness, straw strength, shattering reputation, maturity and test weight. Each grower may differ some in what is most important to them and may add other considerations not mentioned. 

A good resource is “Wheat Variety Guide – MF991” publication that is updated yearly. It will be posted on our web site as well, click onto Crops and Livestock, and look under Hot Topics.

Many thanks to Neil Gottschalk and his family and Brandon Riedel for putting out the wheat demonstration plot! And to the following businesses for sponsoring the field day meal – Bank of Hays, Bieker Insurance Agency, Carrico Implement, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Danny Dinkel, First Kansas Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Belt Coop, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, Kippes Insurance Agency, LDI, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Radke Implement, Sunflower Bank, United Ag and A &amp; A Coors.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Typically, wheat growers will keep back enough of their wheat seed to plant again, but also they may be looking to replace a variety in an effort to reduce seed borne diseases, and to improve genetics for various factors including but not limited to yield and disease prevention.Each year many county agents put out wheat variety demonstration plots and conduct field days to view and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of varieties and wheat production issues. Most demonstration plots are also harvested.To see the complete yield results and details of the cultural practices go to our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>. This demonstration wheat plot should not be used solely for making your variety selection decision. It is more for showing and talking about the varieties each year at the Field Day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689604292324.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Instead I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based on the K-State Agricultural Experiment Station's replicated wheat performance tests. They are randomized replicated trials, meaning each variety is randomly planted in four different spots in the field; all seed is either foundation or registered. Replicated field trials will account for or smooth out the variability within a field, and thus are more accurate. These results from the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations can also be found on our web site.Yield should not be the only consideration in your selection, and multiple years of data should be considered. Some other important considerations are stripe and leaf rust resistance, drought tolerance, winter hardiness, straw strength, shattering reputation, maturity and test weight. Each grower may differ some in what is most important to them and may add other considerations not mentioned. A good resource is “Wheat Variety Guide – MF991” publication that is updated yearly. It will be posted on our web site as well, click onto Crops and Livestock, and look under Hot Topics.Many thanks to Neil Gottschalk and his family and Brandon Riedel for putting out the wheat demonstration plot! And to the following businesses for sponsoring the field day meal – Bank of Hays, Bieker Insurance Agency, Carrico Implement, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Danny Dinkel, First Kansas Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Belt Coop, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, Kippes Insurance Agency, LDI, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Radke Implement, Sunflower Bank, United Ag and A &amp; A Coors.Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Ellis County wheat variety demonstration plot results

By TISA MASON FHSU President

In 1952, a group known as the College Sports Communicators (CSC) created a new accolade called the “Academic All-America” program to recognize student-athletes who excel in the classroom and athletic competition. The program is known today as the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-American program, and to qualify for consideration, a student-athlete must be a starter or play an important role as a reserve or substitute with at least a 3.30 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) at their current institution.

This academic year, ten Tiger athletes earned Academic All-American honors. This was the most in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and by far the most in FHSU’s history. Fort Hays State has produced 68 Academic All-America selections since our first selection in 1975.

Creating an Academic All-Americans legacy at FHSU is no small task. It takes great coaches who recruit and develop superb talent and faculty who challenge and mentor our student-athletes. It also takes dedicated professional staffers like Ryan Prickett, the sports information director for Tiger Athletics. This year, he was the prime mover behind this remarkable rise in Academic All-Americans. Ryan puts the nomination packages together each year, and the process is extensive. To create a nomination package for a worthy student-athlete, Ryan creates a summary write-up of their accomplishments that he submits for consideration to the voting members of CoSIDA. As a voting member, Ryan says he reviews several hundred nomination packages each year and makes just a handful of selections.

“We are limited in the number of individuals I am allowed to nominate in each sport, and it fluctuates a bit from sport to sport,” Ryan said. “Since all of the schools that are members of the College Sports Communicators group can vote on the Academic All-America team, competition is fierce.” Ryan stays in close contact with Tiger Athletics coaches throughout the school year as part of his nomination process.

2023 Academic All-America selectee, women’s golfer Morgan Brasser, said she cried when she heard the news. “It’s tough to describe how good this felt,” Morgan said. “I struggled on the golf course my first couple of years, but things just seem to have come together this year.”

Sprinter Hayden Albright and Javelin thrower Addie Berens were surprised to learn of their Academic All-America selections. They had no idea their coaches and Ryan were positioning them as candidates.

“I wasn’t really looking for the recognition. I know that studying hard and competing at the highest level is what I need to do,” said Hayden, an informatics major from Kingman, Kan.

Addie came to FHSU from little Tampa, Kan. (population just over 100) to pursue her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. Coach McCullough didn’t recruit her, but that didn’t stop her from asking him if she could join the Team as a walk-on athlete. Addie went on to&nbsp;compete at Nationals during her freshman year. She, too, was surprised when she learned of her selection.

“I didn’t know it was a “thing,” Addie said. “It’s a definite honor. It feels good to know our athletics program goes to these lengths to recognize our performance in track and the classroom.”

Track and Field coach Jason McCullough, an accomplished student-athlete himself at FHSU, was a five-time Academic All-America selectee. This year, Coach McCullough’s men’s and women’s teams' six Academic All-America honors were the most for any Tiger Athletics team. He thinks the close-knit culture that defines Tiger Athletics is the primary driver behind the remarkable number of Academic All-America selections this year.&nbsp;

McCullough said, “We value not only the athletic successes of our student-athletes as competitors, but we also value the successes they exhibit in the classroom and as good human beings. I want to bring attention to other principles we cultivate in our student-athletes: commitment to excellence, dedication, teamwork, attitude, and total belief in yourself, your teammates, and your coaching staff.”

Congratulations to our 2023 Academic All-America selectees listed below. Each of you is a superb ambassador for your sport, Tiger Athletics, and Fort Hays State University.

2023 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans

· Baseball – Ed Scott · Football – Alex Schremmer · Men’s Track and Field – Ryan Stanley, Hayden Albright, Ethan Lang, and Xavier Robinson · Women’s Golf – Morgan Brasser ·&nbsp; Women’s Soccer – Isabel Robben · Women’s Track and Field – Mattie Rossi and Addie Berens

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentIn 1952, a group known as the College Sports Communicators (CSC) created a new accolade called the “Academic All-America” program to recognize student-athletes who excel in the classroom and athletic competition. The program is known today as the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-American program, and to qualify for consideration, a student-athlete must be a starter or play an important role as a reserve or substitute with at least a 3.30 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) at their current institution.This academic year, ten Tiger athletes earned Academic All-American honors. This was the most in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and by far the most in FHSU’s history. Fort Hays State has produced 68 Academic All-America selections since our first selection in 1975.Creating an Academic All-Americans legacy at FHSU is no small task. It takes great coaches who recruit and develop superb talent and faculty who challenge and mentor our student-athletes. It also takes dedicated professional staffers like Ryan Prickett, the sports information director for Tiger Athletics. This year, he was the prime mover behind this remarkable rise in Academic All-Americans. Ryan puts the nomination packages together each year, and the process is extensive. To create a nomination package for a worthy student-athlete, Ryan creates a summary write-up of their accomplishments that he submits for consideration to the voting members of CoSIDA. As a voting member, Ryan says he reviews several hundred nomination packages each year and makes just a handful of selections.“We are limited in the number of individuals I am allowed to nominate in each sport, and it fluctuates a bit from sport to sport,” Ryan said. “Since all of the schools that are members of the College Sports Communicators group can vote on the Academic All-America team, competition is fierce.” Ryan stays in close contact with Tiger Athletics coaches throughout the school year as part of his nomination process.2023 Academic All-America selectee, women’s golfer Morgan Brasser, said she cried when she heard the news. “It’s tough to describe how good this felt,” Morgan said. “I struggled on the golf course my first couple of years, but things just seem to have come together this year.”Sprinter Hayden Albright and Javelin thrower Addie Berens were surprised to learn of their Academic All-America selections. They had no idea their coaches and Ryan were positioning them as candidates.“I wasn’t really looking for the recognition. I know that studying hard and competing at the highest level is what I need to do,” said Hayden, an informatics major from Kingman, Kan.Addie came to FHSU from little Tampa, Kan. (population just over 100) to pursue her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. Coach McCullough didn’t recruit her, but that didn’t stop her from asking him if she could join the Team as a walk-on athlete. Addie went on to&nbsp;compete at Nationals during her freshman year. She, too, was surprised when she learned of her selection.“I didn’t know it was a “thing,” Addie said. “It’s a definite honor. It feels good to know our athletics program goes to these lengths to recognize our performance in track and the classroom.”Track and Field coach Jason McCullough, an accomplished student-athlete himself at FHSU, was a five-time Academic All-America selectee. This year, Coach McCullough’s men’s and women’s teams' six Academic All-America honors were the most for any Tiger Athletics team. He thinks the close-knit culture that defines Tiger Athletics is the primary driver behind the remarkable number of Academic All-America selections this year.&nbsp;McCullough said, “We value not only the athletic successes of our student-athletes as competitors, but we also value the successes they exhibit in the classroom and as good human beings. I want to bring attention to other principles we cultivate in our student-athletes: commitment to excellence, dedication, teamwork, attitude, and total belief in yourself, your teammates, and your coaching staff.”Congratulations to our 2023 Academic All-America selectees listed below. Each of you is a superb ambassador for your sport, Tiger Athletics, and Fort Hays State University.2023 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans· Baseball – Ed Scott · Football – Alex Schremmer · Men’s Track and Field – Ryan Stanley, Hayden Albright, Ethan Lang, and Xavier Robinson · Women’s Golf – Morgan Brasser ·&nbsp; Women’s Soccer – Isabel Robben · Women’s Track and Field – Mattie Rossi and Addie Berens

Heart of a Tiger: Athletes earn national Academic All-American honors

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently offered tips as the weather heats up this summer. With fair week upon us, here are some reminders.

•Stay Cool! •Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. •Stay Cool Indoors: Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.&nbsp;Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. •Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully:&nbsp;Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Pace Yourself:&nbsp;Cut down on exercise during the heat. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Wear Sunscreen:&nbsp;Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tip: Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels- these products work best. •Do Not Leave Children in Cars: Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a heat stroke or dying.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals: They add heat to your body!&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Hydrated:&nbsp;Drink Plenty of Fluids: Drink more fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.&nbsp;Warning: If your doctor limits the amount you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.&nbsp;Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. •Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets. •Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Informed:&nbsp;Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips and to learn about any cooling shelters in your area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; •Know the Signs: Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Use a Buddy System:&nbsp;When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. •Monitor Those at High Risk: Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: &nbsp;· Infants and young children · People 65 years of age or older · People who are overweight · People who overexert during work or exercise · People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation.

The Ellis County Fair does have air-conditioned buildings so please come in and get out of the heat if you need to. We also have sunscreen available donated by the Ellis County Cancer Council. We will have a mother’s room available if you want a private space to get out of the heat to feed your baby in the Unrein building! 

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." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently offered tips as the weather heats up this summer. With fair week upon us, here are some reminders.•Stay Cool! •Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. •Stay Cool Indoors: Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.&nbsp;Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. •Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully:&nbsp;Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Pace Yourself:&nbsp;Cut down on exercise during the heat. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Wear Sunscreen:&nbsp;Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tip: Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels- these products work best. •Do Not Leave Children in Cars: Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a heat stroke or dying.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals: They add heat to your body!&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Hydrated:&nbsp;Drink Plenty of Fluids: Drink more fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.&nbsp;Warning: If your doctor limits the amount you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.&nbsp;Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. •Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets. •Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Informed:&nbsp;Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips and to learn about any cooling shelters in your area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; •Know the Signs: Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Use a Buddy System:&nbsp;When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. •Monitor Those at High Risk: Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: &nbsp;· Infants and young children · People 65 years of age or older · People who are overweight · People who overexert during work or exercise · People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation. The Ellis County Fair does have air-conditioned buildings so please come in and get out of the heat if you need to. We also have sunscreen available donated by the Ellis County Cancer Council. We will have a mother’s room available if you want a private space to get out of the heat to feed your baby in the Unrein building! Have a great week.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 cool, stay hydrated, stay informed

Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee has several pointers for food safety tips during a power outage.

When power is first lost, leave the door of the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve cold temperatures as long as possible. “An unopened refrigerator will stay cold about four hours; a full freezer will hold temperature for about 48 hours,” Blakeslee said.

If the power stays out for a longer period of time and the refrigerator is not staying cold, Blakeslee has some additional ideas for protecting food. “Coolers filled with ice are very helpful in an emergency,” Blakeslee said. “Make sure ice surrounds the food for the best chilling effect.”

For food in the freezer, dry ice can be used if available – but thick gloves should always be worn when handling dry ice to prevent skin damage. Dry ice should then be kept in a ventilated area.

Food spoilage may be unavoidable if the power outage is lengthy. Key factors that may be an indication of foodborne illness:

· Color changes. · Unusual odors. · Texture changes.

The most susceptible foods are meat, dairy, eggs and cut fruits and vegetables. Extra care should be taken when examining these food items. “Don’t taste any questionable food that has thawed out,” Blakeslee said. “When in doubt, throw it out.” Blakeslee pointed to a guide available online from the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service that outlines when to save and when to throw out potentially unsafe foods.

“While throwing out food due to an appliance failure or power outage is wasteful, it is a lot cheaper to do than paying for medical treatment due to foodborne illness,” she said.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee has several pointers for food safety tips during a power outage.When power is first lost, leave the door of the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve cold temperatures as long as possible. “An unopened refrigerator will stay cold about four hours; a full freezer will hold temperature for about 48 hours,” Blakeslee said.If the power stays out for a longer period of time and the refrigerator is not staying cold, Blakeslee has some additional ideas for protecting food. “Coolers filled with ice are very helpful in an emergency,” Blakeslee said. “Make sure ice surrounds the food for the best chilling effect.”For food in the freezer, dry ice can be used if available – but thick gloves should always be worn when handling dry ice to prevent skin damage. Dry ice should then be kept in a ventilated area.Food spoilage may be unavoidable if the power outage is lengthy. Key factors that may be an indication of foodborne illness:· Color changes. · Unusual odors. · Texture changes. The most susceptible foods are meat, dairy, eggs and cut fruits and vegetables. Extra care should be taken when examining these food items. “Don’t taste any questionable food that has thawed out,” Blakeslee said. “When in doubt, throw it out.” Blakeslee pointed to a guide available online from the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service that outlines when to save and when to throw out potentially unsafe foods.“While throwing out food due to an appliance failure or power outage is wasteful, it is a lot cheaper to do than paying for medical treatment due to foodborne illness,” she said.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Food safety tips during a power outage

Governor Laura Kelly recently touted her administration’s economic track record in a press release from the Office of the Governor. Specifically, Kelly cited over $16 billion in private-sector investments and the creation of over 60,000 jobs in Kansas since she took office as governor.

To grow the economy, Kelly has offered tax incentive packages to lure businesses to Kansas and encourage Kansas-based corporations to expand their economic footprint in the state. These incentive packages have been a key part in reaching investment deals with Panasonic, Integra Technologies, and EMP Shield.

Tax incentive packages have become a valuable tool for state and local policymakers trying to attract investment in a fiercely competitive economic environment. For example, when Amazon announced it was seeking proposals for a second headquarters in 2017, a bidding war ensued with cities offering land, tax breaks, and promised investments in public transit, among other enticements to convince Amazon to consider their jurisdictions.

The Amazon headquarters decision may be an extreme example, but it illustrates the new normal of policymakers offering lucrative incentives to attract economic investment.

Proponents argue that tax incentive packages have several benefits. First, increased financial investment and job creation can serve as a catalyst for state and local economies. By convincing businesses to establish or expand economic operations within their state or locality, policymakers create job opportunities.

Tax incentives may also lead to increases in tax revenue. This may seem paradoxical, but the argument is that by generating economic activity, governments will recoup whatever tax breaks they initially offered in future revenues from corporate, income, sales, and property taxes.

Finally, by offering tax incentives, policymakers create a competitive advantage over neighboring states, positioning themselves as an attractive destination for investment. This bolsters a state’s reputation as a hub for economic activity, which may in turn attract more investment.

Tax incentive plans, however, are not without detractors. One concern associated with these plans is the loss of revenue for states and localities. When policymakers offer tax breaks to businesses, it reduces the tax base, constraining funds available for key public services such as education or healthcare. This negative consequence can be particularly challenging for cities as they attempt to balance their tight budgets.

Further, these incentive plans create an uneven playing field. They often provide economic benefits to large corporations and businesses. Small businesses and individual taxpayers, on the other hand, do not have access to these same benefits. This worry is not without merit as some of the details of these deals are not made public during negotiation.

Finally, critics argue that tax incentive plans are short-term solutions. Businesses may decide to locate or invest in a state based on the availability of tax incentives, but they do not guarantee long-term investment. Neighboring states can offer similar deals in the future, leading to a cycle of relocation that creates economic instability for everyone. This dynamic, described by Dr. Michael Smith in his column<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/41b36213-139e-4b6f-b5a6-0468c746210d"> “Tax truce is holding, but it’s time to finish the job,” </a>can be seen in past tax border wars in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

The reality is that policymakers, like Governor Kelly, understand that tax incentives are the price of doing business in our global, competitive economy. The question that remains is do the benefits always outweigh the drawbacks?

Brianne Heidbreder, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375743023.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly recently touted her administration’s economic track record in a press release from the Office of the Governor. Specifically, Kelly cited over $16 billion in private-sector investments and the creation of over 60,000 jobs in Kansas since she took office as governor.To grow the economy, Kelly has offered tax incentive packages to lure businesses to Kansas and encourage Kansas-based corporations to expand their economic footprint in the state. These incentive packages have been a key part in reaching investment deals with Panasonic, Integra Technologies, and EMP Shield.Tax incentive packages have become a valuable tool for state and local policymakers trying to attract investment in a fiercely competitive economic environment. For example, when Amazon announced it was seeking proposals for a second headquarters in 2017, a bidding war ensued with cities offering land, tax breaks, and promised investments in public transit, among other enticements to convince Amazon to consider their jurisdictions.The Amazon headquarters decision may be an extreme example, but it illustrates the new normal of policymakers offering lucrative incentives to attract economic investment.Proponents argue that tax incentive packages have several benefits. First, increased financial investment and job creation can serve as a catalyst for state and local economies. By convincing businesses to establish or expand economic operations within their state or locality, policymakers create job opportunities.Tax incentives may also lead to increases in tax revenue. This may seem paradoxical, but the argument is that by generating economic activity, governments will recoup whatever tax breaks they initially offered in future revenues from corporate, income, sales, and property taxes.Finally, by offering tax incentives, policymakers create a competitive advantage over neighboring states, positioning themselves as an attractive destination for investment. This bolsters a state’s reputation as a hub for economic activity, which may in turn attract more investment.Tax incentive plans, however, are not without detractors. One concern associated with these plans is the loss of revenue for states and localities. When policymakers offer tax breaks to businesses, it reduces the tax base, constraining funds available for key public services such as education or healthcare. This negative consequence can be particularly challenging for cities as they attempt to balance their tight budgets.Further, these incentive plans create an uneven playing field. They often provide economic benefits to large corporations and businesses. Small businesses and individual taxpayers, on the other hand, do not have access to these same benefits. This worry is not without merit as some of the details of these deals are not made public during negotiation.Finally, critics argue that tax incentive plans are short-term solutions. Businesses may decide to locate or invest in a state based on the availability of tax incentives, but they do not guarantee long-term investment. Neighboring states can offer similar deals in the future, leading to a cycle of relocation that creates economic instability for everyone. This dynamic, described by Dr. Michael Smith in his column<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/41b36213-139e-4b6f-b5a6-0468c746210d"> “Tax truce is holding, but it’s time to finish the job,” </a>can be seen in past tax border wars in the Kansas City metropolitan area.The reality is that policymakers, like Governor Kelly, understand that tax incentives are the price of doing business in our global, competitive economy. The question that remains is do the benefits always outweigh the drawbacks?Brianne Heidbreder, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The politics of incentivizing investment

When the aggressive nature of Palmer amaranth (pigweed) is combined with the limited post-emergence herbicide options in grain sorghum, problems often arise – even when an adequate preemergence herbicide program is used. 

This article covers post-emergence herbicide options for Palmer amaranth control in grain sorghum. 

Combinations of the herbicides listed here will generally improve control, and all of the options are most effective when applied to small (under 4 inches tall) weeds. 

Atrazine can control sensitive populations of Palmer amaranth and can be combined with other herbicides to enhance effectiveness. Recommended rates range from 0.25 to 2.0 pounds of atrazine (0.5 to 4 pints). Atrazine should be applied with crop oil or surfactant to control emerged weeds. Atrazine can be applied to grain sorghum between 3-leaf and 12 inches or between 6 and 12 inches in western Kansas. Be sure to observe rate limits for your area.

Aim (carfentrazone) is a Group 14 herbicide that can be applied to grain sorghum between 4 inches and boot stage. It is less effective than some of the other herbicides in this article and requires good coverage for maximum effectiveness. Aim can be tank-mixed with atrazine, 2,4-D, dicamba, bromoxynil, and Huskie. Aim is likely to burn grain sorghum leaves, especially if applied in hot, humid weather or with crop oil. Leaf burn will also be greater if Aim is applied with bromoxynil.

2,4-D is an effective herbicide option to control Palmer amaranth. However, crop response should be expected, especially if applied in hot, humid conditions. Crop responses can include rolled leaves, lodging, and brittle stems. Grain sorghum is most tolerant of 2,4-D applications when it is 5 to 10 inches tall. Drop nozzles should be used when applying 2,4-D to grain sorghum greater than 8 inches. To reduce crop response, apply lower rates (2/3 pint) with atrazine, Aim, bromoxynil, or Huskie. Using crop oil in tank mixes with 2,4-D, will increase crop injury.

Dicamba, at the rates used in grain sorghum (0.5 pint), may be less effective on Palmer amaranth than 2,4-D. It can be applied to grain sorghum between 2 and 15 inches. Drop nozzles should be used if grain sorghum is 8 inches or taller to avoid damaging seed heads. Crop response, including rolled leaves and lodging, should be expected, especially if applied in hot, humid conditions. Dicamba can be tank-mixed with Aim, atrazine, and bromoxynil.

Bromoxynil can be applied from the 3-leaf stage through boot stage. Crop response will be less with bromoxynil than other herbicides, but bromoxynil alone will not control Palmer amaranth larger than 4-leaf. Adequate spray coverage is needed for maximum effectiveness.

Huskie (pyrasulfutole+bromoxynil) is most effective when mixed with atrazine (up to 1 pound). When used alone, it can be applied between 3-leaf and 30 inches and should be applied with HSOC (high surfactant oil concentrate) or AMS + NIS. Huskie will cause leaf burn, which can be greater in fields where mesotrione was applied pre-emergence. As needed, Huskie plus atrazine may be tank-mixed with phenoxy broadleaf herbicides such as 2,4-D or dicamba. 

Additional information can be found in the 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland, K-State publication SRP-1176 - <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1176.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1176.pdf</a>

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. 

Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production 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&nbsp;scampbel@ksu.edu&nbsp;or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When the aggressive nature of Palmer amaranth (pigweed) is combined with the limited post-emergence herbicide options in grain sorghum, problems often arise – even when an adequate preemergence herbicide program is used. This article covers post-emergence herbicide options for Palmer amaranth control in grain sorghum. Combinations of the herbicides listed here will generally improve control, and all of the options are most effective when applied to small (under 4 inches tall) weeds. Atrazine can control sensitive populations of Palmer amaranth and can be combined with other herbicides to enhance effectiveness. Recommended rates range from 0.25 to 2.0 pounds of atrazine (0.5 to 4 pints). Atrazine should be applied with crop oil or surfactant to control emerged weeds. Atrazine can be applied to grain sorghum between 3-leaf and 12 inches or between 6 and 12 inches in western Kansas. Be sure to observe rate limits for your area.Aim (carfentrazone) is a Group 14 herbicide that can be applied to grain sorghum between 4 inches and boot stage. It is less effective than some of the other herbicides in this article and requires good coverage for maximum effectiveness. Aim can be tank-mixed with atrazine, 2,4-D, dicamba, bromoxynil, and Huskie. Aim is likely to burn grain sorghum leaves, especially if applied in hot, humid weather or with crop oil. Leaf burn will also be greater if Aim is applied with bromoxynil.2,4-D is an effective herbicide option to control Palmer amaranth. However, crop response should be expected, especially if applied in hot, humid conditions. Crop responses can include rolled leaves, lodging, and brittle stems. Grain sorghum is most tolerant of 2,4-D applications when it is 5 to 10 inches tall. Drop nozzles should be used when applying 2,4-D to grain sorghum greater than 8 inches. To reduce crop response, apply lower rates (2/3 pint) with atrazine, Aim, bromoxynil, or Huskie. Using crop oil in tank mixes with 2,4-D, will increase crop injury.Dicamba, at the rates used in grain sorghum (0.5 pint), may be less effective on Palmer amaranth than 2,4-D. It can be applied to grain sorghum between 2 and 15 inches. Drop nozzles should be used if grain sorghum is 8 inches or taller to avoid damaging seed heads. Crop response, including rolled leaves and lodging, should be expected, especially if applied in hot, humid conditions. Dicamba can be tank-mixed with Aim, atrazine, and bromoxynil.Bromoxynil can be applied from the 3-leaf stage through boot stage. Crop response will be less with bromoxynil than other herbicides, but bromoxynil alone will not control Palmer amaranth larger than 4-leaf. Adequate spray coverage is needed for maximum effectiveness.Huskie (pyrasulfutole+bromoxynil) is most effective when mixed with atrazine (up to 1 pound). When used alone, it can be applied between 3-leaf and 30 inches and should be applied with HSOC (high surfactant oil concentrate) or AMS + NIS. Huskie will cause leaf burn, which can be greater in fields where mesotrione was applied pre-emergence. As needed, Huskie plus atrazine may be tank-mixed with phenoxy broadleaf herbicides such as 2,4-D or dicamba. Additional information can be found in the 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland, K-State publication SRP-1176 - <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1176.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1176.pdf</a>The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.Stacy Campbell is a crop production 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&nbsp;scampbel@ksu.edu&nbsp;or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Palmer amaranth control in grain sorghum

If your doctor gave you a prescription for exercise, would you follow it? 

Exercise is like medicine for many reasons. Obviously, physical activity strengthens muscles, and it also prevents blood vessels from getting damaged and clogged. In turn, this helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and even some types of dementia. 

In fact, regular exercise can be as good as medication at preventing diabetes and heart disease in at-risk people. And, it is even more effective than drugs for stroke recovery. 

You can realize both immediate and long-term benefits from physical activity. Some immediate benefits include:

· better mood · improved memory · reduced fatigue · reduced anxiety and depression

The first step in this change process: Be aware that you don’t have to make lots of changes in physical activity all at once. That can lead to feeling overwhelmed. 

Instead, start by improving just one or two of your lifestyle choices. You might begin to walk during part of your lunch hour, park a little farther away at the store, or try a standing desk. 

Nudge yourself with one small habit at a time, and you can reap the rewards of a healthier lifestyle over time.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>If your doctor gave you a prescription for exercise, would you follow it? Exercise is like medicine for many reasons. Obviously, physical activity strengthens muscles, and it also prevents blood vessels from getting damaged and clogged. In turn, this helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and even some types of dementia. In fact, regular exercise can be as good as medication at preventing diabetes and heart disease in at-risk people. And, it is even more effective than drugs for stroke recovery. You can realize both immediate and long-term benefits from physical activity. Some immediate benefits include:· better mood · improved memory · reduced fatigue · reduced anxiety and depression So, where do you begin? The first step in this change process: Be aware that you don’t have to make lots of changes in physical activity all at once. That can lead to feeling overwhelmed. Instead, start by improving just one or two of your lifestyle choices. You might begin to walk during part of your lunch hour, park a little farther away at the store, or try a standing desk. Nudge yourself with one small habit at a time, and you can reap the rewards of a healthier lifestyle over time.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Small changes equal big rewards

While meat and poultry are popular choices for grilling, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) reminds us that cooking these foods with intense heat can lead to formation of potential carcinogens. Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) form in meat when its proteins react to the intense heat of the grill. Studies have linked HCAs to development of cancer.

You can modify your grilling technique to reduce the chance of cancer risk. Marinating meat before grilling can decrease formation of HCAs. If you are grilling larger cuts of meat, pre-cook them partially to reduce the time meat is exposed to flame. Trim the fat from meat to reduce flare-ups and charring. Cut meat into smaller portions and mix with vegetables to shorten the cooking time. Another way to minimize cancer risk — grill more veggies!

Grilled vegetables and fruits are delicious, and they are key elements in a healthful diet. The bonus is they don’t form HCAs when cooked, so that cancer risk is eliminated. As you plan cookout meals this summer, include plenty of colorful grilled vegetables and fruits like asparagus, all types of peppers, squash, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, carrots, corn, mushrooms, eggplant, potatoes, mangoes, and pineapple. Even the pickiest eaters will usually enjoy some grilled pineapple! Grilled zucchini is one of my favorites and is a good way to get rid of those extra squash that are so prolific. Or try something new, like grilled lettuce!

Here are basic instructions for grilling veggies and fruit:

· Slice veggies the same thickness so they cook at the same rate.

· Drizzle or brush with olive oil before cooking

· Season simply with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and any dried herbs you like.

· Grill over medium heat to start. To prevent veggies and fruit from slipping through the grates, lay them crosswise or use a grill basket.

· Close the lid to create the same environment as an oven. Flip halfway through cooking time. More dense vegetables, like peppers and onions, will cook in about 8 to 10 minutes. Squash, eggplant, and asparagus will only require 5 to 7 minutes.

· After removing vegetables and fruit from heat, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar (flavored varieties add interest) and fresh herbs. Before adding herbs, you may need to add just a bit of olive oil.

One way to add flavor to meals from the grill is with a salsa side. There are so many combinations of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to enjoy! So, don’t think of salsa as just a dip with chips. Almost anything savory, salty, meaty, fresh, or slightly sweet is even better with salsa on top: chicken, fish,&nbsp;steak, pork, lamb, or a baked potato. Top a salad with salsa and sliced chicken, boiled eggs, or tuna and you have a winning meal, especially in the heat of summer. Have you tried cucumber salsa? It is great on a salad!

Another benefit of grilling is cooking outside keeps the heat outside and not in your home. Cooking enough for leftovers during the weekend can help with busy weekdays between work and other activities. Grilling can offer a different flavor which can sometimes encourage family to try new foods. Grilling is easy and convenient so go ahead and try a new fruit or vegetable today!

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/2022/11/1668522176561.png" 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>While meat and poultry are popular choices for grilling, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) reminds us that cooking these foods with intense heat can lead to formation of potential carcinogens. Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) form in meat when its proteins react to the intense heat of the grill. Studies have linked HCAs to development of cancer.You can modify your grilling technique to reduce the chance of cancer risk. Marinating meat before grilling can decrease formation of HCAs. If you are grilling larger cuts of meat, pre-cook them partially to reduce the time meat is exposed to flame. Trim the fat from meat to reduce flare-ups and charring. Cut meat into smaller portions and mix with vegetables to shorten the cooking time. Another way to minimize cancer risk — grill more veggies!Grilled vegetables and fruits are delicious, and they are key elements in a healthful diet. The bonus is they don’t form HCAs when cooked, so that cancer risk is eliminated. As you plan cookout meals this summer, include plenty of colorful grilled vegetables and fruits like asparagus, all types of peppers, squash, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, carrots, corn, mushrooms, eggplant, potatoes, mangoes, and pineapple. Even the pickiest eaters will usually enjoy some grilled pineapple! Grilled zucchini is one of my favorites and is a good way to get rid of those extra squash that are so prolific. Or try something new, like grilled lettuce!Here are basic instructions for grilling veggies and fruit:· Slice veggies the same thickness so they cook at the same rate.· Drizzle or brush with olive oil before cooking· Season simply with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and any dried herbs you like.· Grill over medium heat to start. To prevent veggies and fruit from slipping through the grates, lay them crosswise or use a grill basket.· Close the lid to create the same environment as an oven. Flip halfway through cooking time. More dense vegetables, like peppers and onions, will cook in about 8 to 10 minutes. Squash, eggplant, and asparagus will only require 5 to 7 minutes.· After removing vegetables and fruit from heat, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar (flavored varieties add interest) and fresh herbs. Before adding herbs, you may need to add just a bit of olive oil.One way to add flavor to meals from the grill is with a salsa side. There are so many combinations of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to enjoy! So, don’t think of salsa as just a dip with chips. Almost anything savory, salty, meaty, fresh, or slightly sweet is even better with salsa on top: chicken, fish,&nbsp;steak, pork, lamb, or a baked potato. Top a salad with salsa and sliced chicken, boiled eggs, or tuna and you have a winning meal, especially in the heat of summer. Have you tried cucumber salsa? It is great on a salad!Another benefit of grilling is cooking outside keeps the heat outside and not in your home. Cooking enough for leftovers during the weekend can help with busy weekdays between work and other activities. Grilling can offer a different flavor which can sometimes encourage family to try new foods. Grilling is easy and convenient so go ahead and try a new fruit or vegetable today!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: Grilling fruits, vegetables

We have just celebrated 247 years of American independence — though it’s no secret that the United States has suffered an erosion of democratic norms and institutions in recent years.

This is reflected in rising political polarization, extremism, partisan pressure on the electoral process, and growing disparities in wealth, economic opportunity and political influence.

As a political science professor, I often discuss this topic with my students.

We discuss “Big Thoughts” on American democracy. We start at the foundation and ponder whether it’s worth saving and inevitably come to a consensus that it is, though perhaps with some disagreement on potential changes to the current governing structure.

A vast majority of Kansans seem to agree that democracy is valuable.

In exit polls conducted for Fox News during the 2022 election, 88 percent of Kansas voters indicated that the future of democracy was an important consideration in the election.

Forty-six percent said it was the single most important factor in determining their vote and 42 percent said it was an important factor but not necessarily the most important.

Usually at this point in the discussion, I guide my students to think about what can be done to preserve and rebuild American democracy.

Political civility always comes up… or as the current case may be, the increasing lack of civility.

Civility is a social norm based on widely shared beliefs about how individuals should behave. Examples of political civility include things like the ability of citizens to express differences of opinion during political discussions without losing respect for one another.

The primary struggle with civility is that determining it means judging one’s character and motives. But when it comes to people who disagree with us, humans are remarkably poor judges.

The 2022 exit polls portray this dilemma perfectly.

Let’s consider rhetoric that leads to violence as an extreme example of incivility.

Fifty-seven percent of Kansas voters said the way Democrats talk about politics is leading to an increase in acts of violence. Republicans? Also 57 percent.

While 24 percent of voters pointed to both Republican and Democratic rhetoric as being responsible for an increase in violence, another 33 percent said Democrats, but not Republicans, are responsible. A further 33 percent said Republicans, but not Democrats, are responsible.

People’s assessment of political behavior is heavily influenced by their partisan allegiances.

Political science research has found that people tend to approve of what their side does and disapprove of the actions of the other side. Even if both sides engage in the same objectionable political behavior.

Political civility is a two-way street, which is exactly what makes it so difficult.

Polling from the Pew Research Center has found people often perceive those with opposing political views to be untrustworthy, close-minded, dishonest, and unpatriotic.

In other words, our partisan divisions make it incredibly challenging to view our political rivals in a positive light.

This is even more burdensome when many of today’s political issues are so intertwined with questions of human rights.

Not every issue can or should be compromised on. Though what we are losing, it seems, is the ability to determine when we should employ civility over disruption.

Democracy is inherently messy, inefficient and conflict-ridden. Thus, it is imperative for citizens to be forced to wrestle with deep, values-based differences in opinion and to engage in negotiations that end in compromise, even though it may leave all parties slightly unsatisfied with the outcome.

Without these skills, we’re in big trouble.

Without political civility, we cannot overcome the polarization that is tearing our democracy apart.

Only through civility can people with different lived experiences come together and engage in the inclusive decision-making required for a robust and stable democracy.

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

We have just celebrated 247 years of American independence — though it’s no secret that the United States has suffered an erosion of democratic norms and institutions in recent years.This is reflected in rising political polarization, extremism, partisan pressure on the electoral process, and growing disparities in wealth, economic opportunity and political influence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood</figcaption>
 </figure>As a political science professor, I often discuss this topic with my students.We discuss “Big Thoughts” on American democracy. We start at the foundation and ponder whether it’s worth saving and inevitably come to a consensus that it is, though perhaps with some disagreement on potential changes to the current governing structure.A vast majority of Kansans seem to agree that democracy is valuable.In exit polls conducted for Fox News during the 2022 election, 88 percent of Kansas voters indicated that the future of democracy was an important consideration in the election.Forty-six percent said it was the single most important factor in determining their vote and 42 percent said it was an important factor but not necessarily the most important.Usually at this point in the discussion, I guide my students to think about what can be done to preserve and rebuild American democracy.Political civility always comes up… or as the current case may be, the increasing lack of civility.Civility is a social norm based on widely shared beliefs about how individuals should behave. Examples of political civility include things like the ability of citizens to express differences of opinion during political discussions without losing respect for one another.The primary struggle with civility is that determining it means judging one’s character and motives. But when it comes to people who disagree with us, humans are remarkably poor judges.The 2022 exit polls portray this dilemma perfectly.Let’s consider rhetoric that leads to violence as an extreme example of incivility.Fifty-seven percent of Kansas voters said the way Democrats talk about politics is leading to an increase in acts of violence. Republicans? Also 57 percent.While 24 percent of voters pointed to both Republican and Democratic rhetoric as being responsible for an increase in violence, another 33 percent said Democrats, but not Republicans, are responsible. A further 33 percent said Republicans, but not Democrats, are responsible.People’s assessment of political behavior is heavily influenced by their partisan allegiances.Political science research has found that people tend to approve of what their side does and disapprove of the actions of the other side. Even if both sides engage in the same objectionable political behavior.Political civility is a two-way street, which is exactly what makes it so difficult.Polling from the Pew Research Center has found people often perceive those with opposing political views to be untrustworthy, close-minded, dishonest, and unpatriotic.In other words, our partisan divisions make it incredibly challenging to view our political rivals in a positive light.This is even more burdensome when many of today’s political issues are so intertwined with questions of human rights.Not every issue can or should be compromised on. Though what we are losing, it seems, is the ability to determine when we should employ civility over disruption.Democracy is inherently messy, inefficient and conflict-ridden. Thus, it is imperative for citizens to be forced to wrestle with deep, values-based differences in opinion and to engage in negotiations that end in compromise, even though it may leave all parties slightly unsatisfied with the outcome.Without these skills, we’re in big trouble.Without political civility, we cannot overcome the polarization that is tearing our democracy apart.Only through civility can people with different lived experiences come together and engage in the inclusive decision-making required for a robust and stable democracy.Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Celebrating Independence Day with big thoughts on democracy

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University

We think big. We solve problems. We seek and confront challenges and embrace strategic risks that turn great ideas into exceptional pathways.&nbsp;These are the descriptors of our core values, innovation, and entrepreneurship. I am so inspired by my colleagues who embody our innovative spirit, and I am pleased to share a couple of projects.

Degree in Three: Tourism and Hospitality Management. Stacey Smith and Karen Thal are delivering a specific plan of study that promotes a three-year degree in tourism and hospitality management. A three-year bachelor’s degree option accelerates the traditional undergraduate process. With an academically rigorous schedule, students save time and reach the workforce earlier while gaining the skills and experience needed for a successful career. Students are required to complete an industry internship as part of the program. So, not only will they be done in three years, but they will have completed industry work experience or an industry project.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the U.S. economy to add 8.3 million jobs from 2021 to 2031. Of those, 1.9 million jobs—23.1 percent of all new jobs projected—are expected to be in leisure and hospitality. That is a significant projected increase for a sector that made up 8.9 percent of total employment in 2021. This rapid projected growth—the fastest of any industry, at an annual rate of 1.3 percent—results from the recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students may start this three-year program this fall.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/tourism-hospitality-management">https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/tourism-hospitality-management</a>

Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate:&nbsp;Teaming up to lead this innovation, Rachel Dolechek and Ziwei Qi are creating a network of individuals who can actively support and advocate for survivors of gender-based violence by equipping business professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. One of the critical areas of focus within the certificate program is financial empowerment.&nbsp;

Participants will learn strategies to help survivors gain financial independence and stability, such as understanding the impact of violence on economic well-being, providing resources for financial assistance, promoting financial literacy, and creating trauma-informed workplaces and accommodations. By addressing the financial barriers that survivors often face, the program helps to empower survivors and develop pathways for economic self-sufficiency.

Participants can begin the certificate program in the fall of 2023. Scholarships are available.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/economic-justice-advocacy/certificate">https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/economic-justice-advocacy/certificate.&nbsp;</a>

Exercise is Medicine-On Campus (EIM-OC):&nbsp;Faculty from our Health and Human Performance (HHP) department, led by Emily Washburn, are creating Exercise is Medicine-On Campus, a program developed by the American College of Sports Medicine. The vision of this program is to see all campus and community members across multiple disciplines discover, share, and adopt behaviors to promote a culture of physical activity and chronic disease prevention and management.

Physical inactivity is a fast-growing public health problem and contributes to various chronic diseases and health complications. HHP professionals love creating relationships with people that facilitate positivity and joy around physical activity and movement.

By implementing EIM-OC at FHSU, we can focus more on physical activity to provide health benefits and disease prevention for all community members – faculty, staff, and students. This program will offer HHP undergraduate and graduate students first-hand experience facilitating EIM-OC program elements.

During this past year, the Division of student affairs launched WellTiges to encourage employee health and well-being. The program is designed to help people develop habits that turn into healthy choices. The multi-dimension plan focuses on nutritional, social, physical, occupational, financial, and mental health. The program has been very successful and will partner with EIM-OC as we expand employee well-being initiatives.

Interactive Learning Spaces:&nbsp;Imagine a virtual field trip where students can interact with the environment and each other. Nathan Riedel is working with two faculty partners, Tara Phelps-Durr, biology, and Todd Moore, geoscience, to create a digital space that allows faculty to design interactive and collaborative student learning experiences. The biology project explores mitosis (cell division), while the geoscience project focuses on the elements that create a tornado and provides ways for students to interact with and manipulate the learning content.

This project is based on our belief that the path forward for online education is bridging the gap between what’s possible online and in real life. We want students to feel immersed in their learning, not viewing it from the outside. We want them to be excited about online learning experiences.

The key to this innovation is building a scalable and sustainable infrastructure so that all our faculty can easily develop their own similar class interactive experiences.

Tiger Money Mentors:&nbsp;Christina Glenn, finance professor, is creating Tiger Money Mentors. In this peer-financial counseling program, money-savvy students are trained to provide one-on-one financial education to students who have questions about their personal finances, as well as to provide group financial education to student organizations and classes that might benefit from training on specific financial topics, such as budgeting, student loan debt, credit cards, navigating decisions related to job offers, and making a financial plan for college and beyond. This benefits not only the students seeking counseling but also the money mentors gain experience working with clients and public speaking.&nbsp;

Often young adults need to be provided with the knowledge they need to manage their finances before arriving at college, and their decisions regarding saving, spending, taking on debt, and investing will impact their future significantly.&nbsp;

Research shows that 74 percent of Americans get financial advice from TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook – much of that information is inaccurate. They must have a resource to guide them in making sound financial decisions to set them up for success during and after college.&nbsp;

Coupled with the lack of financial knowledge, financial stress is prevalent among young adults, with finances being a significant factor in the number of credit hours a student takes each semester and even in their decision to continue college. Often students feel the need to choose between school and work, which impacts their academic success.&nbsp;

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State UniversityWe think big. We solve problems. We seek and confront challenges and embrace strategic risks that turn great ideas into exceptional pathways.&nbsp;These are the descriptors of our core values, innovation, and entrepreneurship. I am so inspired by my colleagues who embody our innovative spirit, and I am pleased to share a couple of projects.Degree in Three: Tourism and Hospitality Management. Stacey Smith and Karen Thal are delivering a specific plan of study that promotes a three-year degree in tourism and hospitality management. A three-year bachelor’s degree option accelerates the traditional undergraduate process. With an academically rigorous schedule, students save time and reach the workforce earlier while gaining the skills and experience needed for a successful career. Students are required to complete an industry internship as part of the program. So, not only will they be done in three years, but they will have completed industry work experience or an industry project.The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the U.S. economy to add 8.3 million jobs from 2021 to 2031. Of those, 1.9 million jobs—23.1 percent of all new jobs projected—are expected to be in leisure and hospitality. That is a significant projected increase for a sector that made up 8.9 percent of total employment in 2021. This rapid projected growth—the fastest of any industry, at an annual rate of 1.3 percent—results from the recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.Students may start this three-year program this fall.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/tourism-hospitality-management">https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/tourism-hospitality-management</a>Economic Justice and Advocacy Certificate:&nbsp;Teaming up to lead this innovation, Rachel Dolechek and Ziwei Qi are creating a network of individuals who can actively support and advocate for survivors of gender-based violence by equipping business professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. One of the critical areas of focus within the certificate program is financial empowerment.&nbsp;Participants will learn strategies to help survivors gain financial independence and stability, such as understanding the impact of violence on economic well-being, providing resources for financial assistance, promoting financial literacy, and creating trauma-informed workplaces and accommodations. By addressing the financial barriers that survivors often face, the program helps to empower survivors and develop pathways for economic self-sufficiency.Participants can begin the certificate program in the fall of 2023. Scholarships are available.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/economic-justice-advocacy/certificate">https://www.fhsu.edu/academic/programs/economic-justice-advocacy/certificate.&nbsp;</a>Exercise is Medicine-On Campus (EIM-OC):&nbsp;Faculty from our Health and Human Performance (HHP) department, led by Emily Washburn, are creating Exercise is Medicine-On Campus, a program developed by the American College of Sports Medicine. The vision of this program is to see all campus and community members across multiple disciplines discover, share, and adopt behaviors to promote a culture of physical activity and chronic disease prevention and management.Physical inactivity is a fast-growing public health problem and contributes to various chronic diseases and health complications. HHP professionals love creating relationships with people that facilitate positivity and joy around physical activity and movement.By implementing EIM-OC at FHSU, we can focus more on physical activity to provide health benefits and disease prevention for all community members – faculty, staff, and students. This program will offer HHP undergraduate and graduate students first-hand experience facilitating EIM-OC program elements.During this past year, the Division of student affairs launched WellTiges to encourage employee health and well-being. The program is designed to help people develop habits that turn into healthy choices. The multi-dimension plan focuses on nutritional, social, physical, occupational, financial, and mental health. The program has been very successful and will partner with EIM-OC as we expand employee well-being initiatives.Interactive Learning Spaces:&nbsp;Imagine a virtual field trip where students can interact with the environment and each other. Nathan Riedel is working with two faculty partners, Tara Phelps-Durr, biology, and Todd Moore, geoscience, to create a digital space that allows faculty to design interactive and collaborative student learning experiences. The biology project explores mitosis (cell division), while the geoscience project focuses on the elements that create a tornado and provides ways for students to interact with and manipulate the learning content.This project is based on our belief that the path forward for online education is bridging the gap between what’s possible online and in real life. We want students to feel immersed in their learning, not viewing it from the outside. We want them to be excited about online learning experiences.The key to this innovation is building a scalable and sustainable infrastructure so that all our faculty can easily develop their own similar class interactive experiences.Tiger Money Mentors:&nbsp;Christina Glenn, finance professor, is creating Tiger Money Mentors. In this peer-financial counseling program, money-savvy students are trained to provide one-on-one financial education to students who have questions about their personal finances, as well as to provide group financial education to student organizations and classes that might benefit from training on specific financial topics, such as budgeting, student loan debt, credit cards, navigating decisions related to job offers, and making a financial plan for college and beyond. This benefits not only the students seeking counseling but also the money mentors gain experience working with clients and public speaking.&nbsp;Often young adults need to be provided with the knowledge they need to manage their finances before arriving at college, and their decisions regarding saving, spending, taking on debt, and investing will impact their future significantly.&nbsp;Research shows that 74 percent of Americans get financial advice from TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook – much of that information is inaccurate. They must have a resource to guide them in making sound financial decisions to set them up for success during and after college.&nbsp;Coupled with the lack of financial knowledge, financial stress is prevalent among young adults, with finances being a significant factor in the number of credit hours a student takes each semester and even in their decision to continue college. Often students feel the need to choose between school and work, which impacts their academic success.&nbsp;Beginning in the fall 2023, Tiger Money Mentors will help students gain knowledge and skills that pertain to their unique personal finance situations and hopefully come away with a plan to reduce the financial stress and anxiety that many college students face, reduce student loan borrowing, and feel more confident about their financial future. We want students to feel empowered to take control of their financial situation and not give up on their academic goals.&nbsp;Virtual Arctic Field Trip: Sternberg Museum Science Camps Director David Levering is working with Laura Wilson, geoscience professor, to create a virtual field trip to the Arctic. Students will explore an Arctic research station, modern Arctic geology, and climate science and travel back in time to explore the Arctic region as it looked millions of years ago. The time travel will allow a more direct presentation of how and why the climate has changed dramatically. The course will be available to students for the spring 2024 semester.

Opinion