By ED CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association

Debate continues across the country on our nation’s energy future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The competing visions, however, are not just philosophical arguments. &nbsp;There are real differences between these two visions and their outcomes on our economy, on consumers, and on our way of life.

​On one hand, we have&nbsp;the&nbsp;energy reality&nbsp;that the U.S. can lead&nbsp;the world in production of oil and natural gas and consumers enjoy almost unprecedented energy security.&nbsp;As recent as 2019 gasoline prices averaged $2.60 per gallon. &nbsp;This pro-energy vision means energy from all sources, including oil and natural gas, generate economic growth and reduce carbon emissions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the other hand,&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;environmental activists work to obstruct energy development and infrastructure projects, reducing our energy options under a false belief that oil and natural gas production and use are incompatible with environmental progress. &nbsp;Their vision is one of constrained energy choices, with less certainty and reliability, less assurance on affordable power and higher energy costs.

Fact is the U.S. leads the world in reduction of carbon emissions. &nbsp;From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2&nbsp;emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%. &nbsp;Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions fell by 27% - as the U.S. economy grew by 25%.

The oil and natural gas industry has proven that over the long-term it is possible to lead in energy production&nbsp;AND&nbsp;in environmental stewardship. &nbsp;Those are the facts.

Cutting&nbsp;American&nbsp;oil and natural gas production&nbsp;would take us back to last century’s era of energy dependency. &nbsp;The U.S. economy would lose a projected 5.9 million jobs. &nbsp;But the vision of extreme environmental activists would take us there again, plunging the economy into persistent recession-level unemployment through&nbsp;2040. &nbsp;Lower U.S. energy production and higher energy prices could reduce cumulative GDP by $11.8 trillion.

Those who oppose American energy development at the state and national level are using environmental and regulatory issues to disrupt orderly oil and natural gas development and influence policymakers. &nbsp;They use these issues not to make energy development better, but to impede or stop oil and natural gas development. &nbsp;They have shown a propensity to align themselves rhetorically with public sentiment for more American energy development even as they espouse policies that would put that goal farther and farther out of reach.

History has shown that increasing taxes on oil and natural gas development negatively affects consumers, businesses, and the economy. &nbsp;Imposing new duplicative federal regulations when the industry is already well-regulated by the states will not put America on a path of preparing for its real energy future. &nbsp;

Contrary to claims from environmental activists, cutting U.S. oil and natural gas production would not magically reduce world energy demand. &nbsp;But it could raise costs significantly for American families and manufacturers, profoundly damage the U.S. economy, diminish our geopolitical influence, and severely weaken our energy security. &nbsp;That’s where&nbsp;Biden’s energy policies&nbsp;lead, and it is not a path most Americans want to take.

The most pressing risks facing U.S. companies in the foreseeable future are unlikely to be those arising from climate change or an energy transition. &nbsp;Rather, the factors to watch are more apt to be inflation, rising energy costs, and national security threats. &nbsp;The Biden Administration is too focused on climate change to anticipate or deter these significant real threats.

Today’s sky-high gasoline prices were a policy choice, not an unavoidable accident. &nbsp;No matter how many misleading statistics White House officials and congressional liberals try to throw at the people, the blame for high energy costs rests with them.

While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his quixotic energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Nothing less than total reversal of his approach is necessary.

President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency. &nbsp;

Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584027001010.png" alt="Ed Cross" />
 <figcaption>Ed Cross</figcaption>
 </figure>By ED CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas AssociationDebate continues across the country on our nation’s energy future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The competing visions, however, are not just philosophical arguments. &nbsp;There are real differences between these two visions and their outcomes on our economy, on consumers, and on our way of life.​On one hand, we have&nbsp;the&nbsp;energy reality&nbsp;that the U.S. can lead&nbsp;the world in production of oil and natural gas and consumers enjoy almost unprecedented energy security.&nbsp;As recent as 2019 gasoline prices averaged $2.60 per gallon. &nbsp;This pro-energy vision means energy from all sources, including oil and natural gas, generate economic growth and reduce carbon emissions. &nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand,&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;environmental activists work to obstruct energy development and infrastructure projects, reducing our energy options under a false belief that oil and natural gas production and use are incompatible with environmental progress. &nbsp;Their vision is one of constrained energy choices, with less certainty and reliability, less assurance on affordable power and higher energy costs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fact is the U.S. leads the world in reduction of carbon emissions. &nbsp;From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2&nbsp;emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%. &nbsp;Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions fell by 27% - as the U.S. economy grew by 25%.The oil and natural gas industry has proven that over the long-term it is possible to lead in energy production&nbsp;AND&nbsp;in environmental stewardship. &nbsp;Those are the facts.Cutting&nbsp;American&nbsp;oil and natural gas production&nbsp;would take us back to last century’s era of energy dependency. &nbsp;The U.S. economy would lose a projected 5.9 million jobs. &nbsp;But the vision of extreme environmental activists would take us there again, plunging the economy into persistent recession-level unemployment through&nbsp;2040. &nbsp;Lower U.S. energy production and higher energy prices could reduce cumulative GDP by $11.8 trillion.Those who oppose American energy development at the state and national level are using environmental and regulatory issues to disrupt orderly oil and natural gas development and influence policymakers. &nbsp;They use these issues not to make energy development better, but to impede or stop oil and natural gas development. &nbsp;They have shown a propensity to align themselves rhetorically with public sentiment for more American energy development even as they espouse policies that would put that goal farther and farther out of reach.History has shown that increasing taxes on oil and natural gas development negatively affects consumers, businesses, and the economy. &nbsp;Imposing new duplicative federal regulations when the industry is already well-regulated by the states will not put America on a path of preparing for its real energy future. &nbsp;Contrary to claims from environmental activists, cutting U.S. oil and natural gas production would not magically reduce world energy demand. &nbsp;But it could raise costs significantly for American families and manufacturers, profoundly damage the U.S. economy, diminish our geopolitical influence, and severely weaken our energy security. &nbsp;That’s where&nbsp;Biden’s energy policies&nbsp;lead, and it is not a path most Americans want to take.The most pressing risks facing U.S. companies in the foreseeable future are unlikely to be those arising from climate change or an energy transition. &nbsp;Rather, the factors to watch are more apt to be inflation, rising energy costs, and national security threats. &nbsp;The Biden Administration is too focused on climate change to anticipate or deter these significant real threats.Today’s sky-high gasoline prices were a policy choice, not an unavoidable accident. &nbsp;No matter how many misleading statistics White House officials and congressional liberals try to throw at the people, the blame for high energy costs rests with them.While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his quixotic energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Nothing less than total reversal of his approach is necessary.President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency. &nbsp;Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

CROSS: What’s next for our energy future?

In June of 1902, Theodore Roosevelt&nbsp;was president.&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz opened as a musical in Chicago.&nbsp;And&nbsp;on&nbsp;June 23&nbsp;of that year,&nbsp;57&nbsp;students attended the first day of classes&nbsp;in the infirmary building on the grounds of the former military outpost, Fort Hays.&nbsp;Few could have predicted&nbsp;extraordinary&nbsp;journey of service,&nbsp;innovation,&nbsp;and persistence that would follow for&nbsp;what was then known as the Western Branch of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas State Normal School.&nbsp;As we celebrate our blessings on this 120th&nbsp;anniversary, I thought I would share some massive moments that have shaped our journey.

Congress introduced legislation in 1900 to transfer the abandoned military reservation in Hays, Kansas, to the State of Kansas to establish the Western Branch of the State Normal School.

The state legislature severed the Hays branch from Emporia as part of a more extensive restructuring, thus changing the name to Fort Hays Kansas Normal School on March 6, 1914. Thus, began FHSU’s substantial growth in enrollment, facilities, and, most importantly, in the scope of our academic and cultural mission.

Focusing on building a faculty of scholars and researchers, in March 1927, George Sternberg, the noted fossil hunter and geologist joined the faculty. Discovering the fish within the fish brought international attention to our research prominence.

House Bill No. 487 authorized a name change to Fort Hays Kansas State College in 1931. More importantly, we recognized a much broader role for the institution advancing from a normal school to a liberal arts institution.

In the 1980s, FHSU received a Title III Strengthening Institution Grant for $2,423,567 that provided major IBM mainframe computing equipment for FHSU, laying the foundation for a new high-tech/high-touch learning environment. Today, we are pioneering a university digital master plan, one of the first in the country.

The rise of a basketball powerhouse

In 1984 and 1985, the men’s basketball team won back-to-back NAIA national championships. The women won the NAIA national title in 1991. Five years later, the 1995-1996 men’s team won the NCAA Division II national championship to complete a perfect 34-0 season.

In 1999-2000 the Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;secured a change to the established tuition&nbsp;model to allow each university to keep any&nbsp;tuition and fees collected. Other institutions&nbsp;used this new authority to raise tuition. FHSU launched an affordability advantage&nbsp;mission that drove enrollment and expanded&nbsp;access.

The introduction of online learning

Education at a distance began in 1911, with&nbsp;coursework offered by mail. Highly successful,&nbsp;the program grew year by year, developing new&nbsp;techniques and adopting new technology. In&nbsp;1977, the Division of Continuing Education&nbsp;emerged, later becoming the Virtual College.&nbsp;The first online courses were offered in 1998,&nbsp;and the first full-degree programs started in&nbsp;1999. The ability to provide online classes was&nbsp;a game-changer for the university. Today we&nbsp;are only one of six universities in the world to&nbsp;earn the United States Distance Learning&nbsp;Association’s rigorous 91-point quality&nbsp;certification.

FHSU established a partnership with Zhengzhou&nbsp;Sias University to offer four-year degrees in&nbsp;China in 1999. FHSU has granted degrees to&nbsp;more than 12,000 Chinese graduates at two&nbsp;partner universities in China – Sias University&nbsp;and Shenyang Normal University. Today our students represent more than 30 countries and a growing number of educational partnerships in Bolivia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Senegal, and China.

Our long history of serving military-connected&nbsp;students included an Army ROTC program&nbsp;(1980-1987). With the increase in distance&nbsp;learning in the late 1990s, FHSU began to&nbsp;deliver education to military students across the&nbsp;nation, joining the Navy College Program&nbsp;Distance Learning Partnership in 2001. Today&nbsp;we serve every branch of the military. Over the&nbsp;past three years, we have launched the&nbsp;Associate of Applied Science (AAS) –&nbsp;Technology &amp; Leadership (2019), the Transfer &amp;&nbsp;Military Center (2020), and the Kansas Army&nbsp;National Guard Officer Candidate School&nbsp;Program (2021).

Expanding the regional reach of FHSU affordability

In 2021, we expanded our commitment&nbsp;to providing a high-quality and accessible education,&nbsp;making a bold move to redefine the meaning of&nbsp;regional tuition. We now offer in-state tuition to students from 13 states across a swath of the central United States.

FHSU today is a regional comprehensive public university where determined, innovative, and caring faculty and staff share a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring students. This commitment, established and built upon for 120 years, will continue to guide us forward.&nbsp;

Our mission remains relentlessly focused on developing the engaged global-citizen leaders our world needs today. This singular focus has been the principal driver of our success for more than 120 years.

FHSU consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the American Midwest. A remarkable 95% of FHSU students secure jobs or higher education opportunities after graduation. Employers tell us the combination of challenging academic programs, close faculty/student relationships, and the abundance of experiential learning opportunities our students enjoy while at FHSU set our students apart in a competitive job market worldwide.

Throughout our history, the quality of our academic programs, our unmatched affordability, and generations of caring and supportive people have been the hallmarks of the Fort Hays State University experience. On this 120th&nbsp;anniversary of the founding of our university, I continue to marvel at the remarkable Tiger Nation we’ve all built.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>In June of 1902, Theodore Roosevelt&nbsp;was president.&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz opened as a musical in Chicago.&nbsp;And&nbsp;on&nbsp;June 23&nbsp;of that year,&nbsp;57&nbsp;students attended the first day of classes&nbsp;in the infirmary building on the grounds of the former military outpost, Fort Hays.&nbsp;Few could have predicted&nbsp;extraordinary&nbsp;journey of service,&nbsp;innovation,&nbsp;and persistence that would follow for&nbsp;what was then known as the Western Branch of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas State Normal School.&nbsp;As we celebrate our blessings on this 120th&nbsp;anniversary, I thought I would share some massive moments that have shaped our journey.Humble beginningsCongress introduced legislation in 1900 to transfer the abandoned military reservation in Hays, Kansas, to the State of Kansas to establish the Western Branch of the State Normal School.Independence Day in HaysThe state legislature severed the Hays branch from Emporia as part of a more extensive restructuring, thus changing the name to Fort Hays Kansas Normal School on March 6, 1914. Thus, began FHSU’s substantial growth in enrollment, facilities, and, most importantly, in the scope of our academic and cultural mission.Building the academyFocusing on building a faculty of scholars and researchers, in March 1927, George Sternberg, the noted fossil hunter and geologist joined the faculty. Discovering the fish within the fish brought international attention to our research prominence.A new name and an expanded roleHouse Bill No. 487 authorized a name change to Fort Hays Kansas State College in 1931. More importantly, we recognized a much broader role for the institution advancing from a normal school to a liberal arts institution.TechnologyIn the 1980s, FHSU received a Title III Strengthening Institution Grant for $2,423,567 that provided major IBM mainframe computing equipment for FHSU, laying the foundation for a new high-tech/high-touch learning environment. Today, we are pioneering a university digital master plan, one of the first in the country.The rise of a basketball powerhouseIn 1984 and 1985, the men’s basketball team won back-to-back NAIA national championships. The women won the NAIA national title in 1991. Five years later, the 1995-1996 men’s team won the NCAA Division II national championship to complete a perfect 34-0 season.Expanded financial freedomIn 1999-2000 the Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;secured a change to the established tuition&nbsp;model to allow each university to keep any&nbsp;tuition and fees collected. Other institutions&nbsp;used this new authority to raise tuition. FHSU launched an affordability advantage&nbsp;mission that drove enrollment and expanded&nbsp;access.The introduction of online learningEducation at a distance began in 1911, with&nbsp;coursework offered by mail. Highly successful,&nbsp;the program grew year by year, developing new&nbsp;techniques and adopting new technology. In&nbsp;1977, the Division of Continuing Education&nbsp;emerged, later becoming the Virtual College.&nbsp;The first online courses were offered in 1998,&nbsp;and the first full-degree programs started in&nbsp;1999. The ability to provide online classes was&nbsp;a game-changer for the university. Today we&nbsp;are only one of six universities in the world to&nbsp;earn the United States Distance Learning&nbsp;Association’s rigorous 91-point quality&nbsp;certification.East meets west&nbsp;FHSU established a partnership with Zhengzhou&nbsp;Sias University to offer four-year degrees in&nbsp;China in 1999. FHSU has granted degrees to&nbsp;more than 12,000 Chinese graduates at two&nbsp;partner universities in China – Sias University&nbsp;and Shenyang Normal University. Today our students represent more than 30 countries and a growing number of educational partnerships in Bolivia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Senegal, and China.Military partnershipsOur long history of serving military-connected&nbsp;students included an Army ROTC program&nbsp;(1980-1987). With the increase in distance&nbsp;learning in the late 1990s, FHSU began to&nbsp;deliver education to military students across the&nbsp;nation, joining the Navy College Program&nbsp;Distance Learning Partnership in 2001. Today&nbsp;we serve every branch of the military. Over the&nbsp;past three years, we have launched the&nbsp;Associate of Applied Science (AAS) –&nbsp;Technology &amp; Leadership (2019), the Transfer &amp;&nbsp;Military Center (2020), and the Kansas Army&nbsp;National Guard Officer Candidate School&nbsp;Program (2021).Expanding the regional reach of FHSU affordabilityIn 2021, we expanded our commitment&nbsp;to providing a high-quality and accessible education,&nbsp;making a bold move to redefine the meaning of&nbsp;regional tuition. We now offer in-state tuition to students from 13 states across a swath of the central United States.FHSU today is a regional comprehensive public university where determined, innovative, and caring faculty and staff share a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring students. This commitment, established and built upon for 120 years, will continue to guide us forward.&nbsp;Our mission remains relentlessly focused on developing the engaged global-citizen leaders our world needs today. This singular focus has been the principal driver of our success for more than 120 years.FHSU consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the American Midwest. A remarkable 95% of FHSU students secure jobs or higher education opportunities after graduation. Employers tell us the combination of challenging academic programs, close faculty/student relationships, and the abundance of experiential learning opportunities our students enjoy while at FHSU set our students apart in a competitive job market worldwide.Throughout our history, the quality of our academic programs, our unmatched affordability, and generations of caring and supportive people have been the hallmarks of the Fort Hays State University experience. On this 120th&nbsp;anniversary of the founding of our university, I continue to marvel at the remarkable Tiger Nation we’ve all built.&nbsp;

MASON: FHSU at 120 — a legacy of massive moments  

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson&nbsp;County farmer and rancher Every year around this time, the world around me has the potential to quickly turn into a continuous swirl that would be perfect for a TV series.&nbsp; &nbsp; In cinematic effect, I imagine my story would begin with a black and white tight shot of my eyes opening wide from slumber and darting back and forth in a semi-confused state. &nbsp; The background music at the start of my episode would consist of an odd pattern of guitar plinks and orchestral bursts, and over this hair-raising musical selection would include a Rod Serling-like narration: &nbsp; “You unlock this door with the key of imagination. Beyond it is another dimension. A dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. You’re moving into a land of both shadow and substance. Of things and ideas. You’ve just crossed over into … the ‘Harvest Zone.’” &nbsp; Harvest crews are making their way through wheat fields in my part of the world right now. As a farming family, this begins the busy season of not only harvesting wheat from the fields while racing the summer storms, but also finishing up the planting of our fall crops, and beginning the long, hot summer days of irrigation. Sprinkle in a variety of summer activities for our kids like Vacation Bible School, baseball games and swim lessons, and you have a swirling vortex of days that leave people like me asking at times, “What day is it?”&nbsp; &nbsp; It’s during this time of the year I have to intentionally look at my calendar every morning to identify which kid has a baseball game that evening, if I have a scheduled Zoom call at some point during the day, or if my newspaper column is due. In reality, I also have to look at my calendar to know what the actual&nbsp;day is. &nbsp; It’s during this part of the year where I intentionally set two alerts on all of my calendar entries. One alert is set for “1 day before” and the second for “1 hour before” to help remind me of daily events.&nbsp; &nbsp; And it’s during this part of the year while conducting my daily morning calendar review, I will also routinely set alarms on my phone to go off approximately 30-minutes prior to any calendar entries that demand me to be at a certain place at a certain time.&nbsp; &nbsp; While it seems excessive, all of this helps me to avoid wandering through a timeless dimension exacerbated by the hustle of wheat harvest and other continuously flowing summer farm and family tasks and appointments that can easily blend into one big summer blur if not contained. &nbsp; To know what day&nbsp;it is and to be aware of what time&nbsp;it is helps me stay as grounded and focused as possible. These are the steps I take to keep moving forward and not overlook important tasks needing my attention.&nbsp; &nbsp; Whether it’s getting my kids to their games on time, delivering seed to a field at the right time, or consistently delivering our harvest crew their meals twice daily at mealtime, it’s just one of the ways I try to maintain awareness of real time&nbsp;while living in the “Harvest Zone.”

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson&nbsp;County farmer and rancher Every year around this time, the world around me has the potential to quickly turn into a continuous swirl that would be perfect for a TV series.&nbsp; &nbsp; In cinematic effect, I imagine my story would begin with a black and white tight shot of my eyes opening wide from slumber and darting back and forth in a semi-confused state. &nbsp; The background music at the start of my episode would consist of an odd pattern of guitar plinks and orchestral bursts, and over this hair-raising musical selection would include a Rod Serling-like narration: &nbsp; “You unlock this door with the key of imagination. Beyond it is another dimension. A dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. You’re moving into a land of both shadow and substance. Of things and ideas. You’ve just crossed over into … the ‘Harvest Zone.’” &nbsp; Harvest crews are making their way through wheat fields in my part of the world right now. As a farming family, this begins the busy season of not only harvesting wheat from the fields while racing the summer storms, but also finishing up the planting of our fall crops, and beginning the long, hot summer days of irrigation. Sprinkle in a variety of summer activities for our kids like Vacation Bible School, baseball games and swim lessons, and you have a swirling vortex of days that leave people like me asking at times, “What day is it?”&nbsp; &nbsp; It’s during this time of the year I have to intentionally look at my calendar every morning to identify which kid has a baseball game that evening, if I have a scheduled Zoom call at some point during the day, or if my newspaper column is due. In reality, I also have to look at my calendar to know what the actual&nbsp;day is. &nbsp; It’s during this part of the year where I intentionally set two alerts on all of my calendar entries. One alert is set for “1 day before” and the second for “1 hour before” to help remind me of daily events.&nbsp; &nbsp; And it’s during this part of the year while conducting my daily morning calendar review, I will also routinely set alarms on my phone to go off approximately 30-minutes prior to any calendar entries that demand me to be at a certain place at a certain time.&nbsp; &nbsp; While it seems excessive, all of this helps me to avoid wandering through a timeless dimension exacerbated by the hustle of wheat harvest and other continuously flowing summer farm and family tasks and appointments that can easily blend into one big summer blur if not contained. &nbsp; To know what day&nbsp;it is and to be aware of what time&nbsp;it is helps me stay as grounded and focused as possible. These are the steps I take to keep moving forward and not overlook important tasks needing my attention.&nbsp; &nbsp; Whether it’s getting my kids to their games on time, delivering seed to a field at the right time, or consistently delivering our harvest crew their meals twice daily at mealtime, it’s just one of the ways I try to maintain awareness of real time&nbsp;while living in the “Harvest Zone.”"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The harvest zone

Everywhere we turn there are signs of the upcoming Aug. 2 constitutional amendment and primary elections, and soon enough they’ll be replaced with reminders of the Nov. 8 general election.

For a political scientist like myself, I love election years. It’s like my Super Bowl — except the stakes are a whole lot higher because the winners and losers affect the lives of everyday Kansans.

But more and more often I’m finding myself disappointed during election season.

Surprisingly, it’s not the bombardment of negative campaign ads, yard signs, and armchair political scientists that make me feel this way — though those certainly don’t help. It’s how few options Kansas voters really have.

Shortly after the June 10 candidate filing deadline, I noticed tweets from several candidates for the Kansas House celebrating their victories. And that feeling of disappointment hit me again. These candidates had essentially won because they didn’t have a single challenger running against them.

All 125 House seats are up for election this year. Yet, 55 of those seats are completely unopposed. Voters in 44 percent of our House districts don’t get a choice in who their representative is going to be. Another handful of districts will be decided in the Aug. 2 primary, as there isn’t a partisan challenger running for the seat.

Considering the 2021 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey found less than one-third of Kansans are satisfied with the overall performance of the state legislature, it is perhaps surprising so many candidates are running unopposed.

This begs the question, why are there so many districts without opposition candidates?

Well, there are completely valid reasons why potential challengers don’t run in these districts.

First, many of Kansas’ House districts just aren’t competitive.

Of the 55 unopposed races, 36 have a Republican candidate and 19 have a Democratic candidate.

Rural areas of our state strongly favor Republicans. While urban and suburban areas, especially in the northeast, are more favorable to Democrats. 

Electoral districts are drawn with this partisanship in mind. The goal is to maximize the number of districts winnable by the majority party, which can only be done by giving up a few districts to the minority party.

To determine competitiveness, I analyzed 2020 voting trends in each 2022 House district and deemed districts that came within 2 percent of a 50-50 partisan split to be competitive. I found that only 12 of our 125 House districts met these criteria.

Most of these unopposed races are in districts that are not competitive for members of the opposite party. And potential challengers aren’t going to run if their chance of winning is low.

Second, there are features of the Kansas Legislature that limit who is realistically able to run for office.

We have a part-time, low-pay, legislature. On average, lawmakers spend about half of a full-time job doing legislative work. This requires many legislators to have other sources of income to make a living — usually flexible careers, family wealth, or retirement. Therefore, running for office is often limited to upper-middle-class or wealthy Kansans.

Logically, it makes sense why this wouldn’t be an appealing draw for potential challengers.

But it’s concerning for our democracy. Government necessitates competitive elections to be considered representative.

The voice of the people is supposed to drive our government. But nearly half of Kansas voters won’t get a choice in who their state representative is this year.

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

Everywhere we turn there are signs of the upcoming Aug. 2 constitutional amendment and primary elections, and soon enough they’ll be replaced with reminders of the Nov. 8 general election.For a political scientist like myself, I love election years. It’s like my Super Bowl — except the stakes are a whole lot higher because the winners and losers affect the lives of everyday Kansans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra&nbsp;&nbsp;Middlewood" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra&nbsp;&nbsp;Middlewood</figcaption>
 </figure>But more and more often I’m finding myself disappointed during election season.Surprisingly, it’s not the bombardment of negative campaign ads, yard signs, and armchair political scientists that make me feel this way — though those certainly don’t help. It’s how few options Kansas voters really have.Shortly after the June 10 candidate filing deadline, I noticed tweets from several candidates for the Kansas House celebrating their victories. And that feeling of disappointment hit me again. These candidates had essentially won because they didn’t have a single challenger running against them.All 125 House seats are up for election this year. Yet, 55 of those seats are completely unopposed. Voters in 44 percent of our House districts don’t get a choice in who their representative is going to be. Another handful of districts will be decided in the Aug. 2 primary, as there isn’t a partisan challenger running for the seat.Considering the 2021 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey found less than one-third of Kansans are satisfied with the overall performance of the state legislature, it is perhaps surprising so many candidates are running unopposed.This begs the question, why are there so many districts without opposition candidates?Well, there are completely valid reasons why potential challengers don’t run in these districts.First, many of Kansas’ House districts just aren’t competitive.Of the 55 unopposed races, 36 have a Republican candidate and 19 have a Democratic candidate.Rural areas of our state strongly favor Republicans. While urban and suburban areas, especially in the northeast, are more favorable to Democrats. Electoral districts are drawn with this partisanship in mind. The goal is to maximize the number of districts winnable by the majority party, which can only be done by giving up a few districts to the minority party.To determine competitiveness, I analyzed 2020 voting trends in each 2022 House district and deemed districts that came within 2 percent of a 50-50 partisan split to be competitive. I found that only 12 of our 125 House districts met these criteria.Most of these unopposed races are in districts that are not competitive for members of the opposite party. And potential challengers aren’t going to run if their chance of winning is low.Second, there are features of the Kansas Legislature that limit who is realistically able to run for office.We have a part-time, low-pay, legislature. On average, lawmakers spend about half of a full-time job doing legislative work. This requires many legislators to have other sources of income to make a living — usually flexible careers, family wealth, or retirement. Therefore, running for office is often limited to upper-middle-class or wealthy Kansans.Logically, it makes sense why this wouldn’t be an appealing draw for potential challengers.But it’s concerning for our democracy. Government necessitates competitive elections to be considered representative.The voice of the people is supposed to drive our government. But nearly half of Kansas voters won’t get a choice in who their state representative is this year.Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT: Unopposed races for Kansas House concerning for representative democracy

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

How many old westerns have we seen the hero crawling across the desert, desperate to find a drink of water? He turns his canteen upside down and only sand runs out. Or the cattle baron uses unscrupulous methods to gain the water rights of the small ranches. Water has been the source of conflict since the dawn of mankind. It is the one thing that sustains life, the one thing without which we can’t live. That is one absolute that we cannot change, and conflict over water will only become more serious in the future. Water is absolutely critical to those of us in agriculture. It is necessary for our crops and livestock. I am not telling you anything you do not know. However, we need to have a serious discussion about water and water rights. Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) water policy has grown over the years, but it is something we need to take a deep dive into. Maybe the policy we have is good enough, but I suspect we need to make some changes. Those changes might be small tweaks, or they might be major overhauls. It is up to you, the grassroots Farm Bureau member. That is why we are hosting a series of meetings around the state, and I am imploring you to attend one and add your opinion to the process. This may be the biggest issue we have ever faced and one that will shape agriculture in Kansas for a long time. If we are not at the table, decisions will be made without our input that could have catastrophic consequences. I don’t know how to make this any clearer or any more urgent. There are parties involved are pulling from every direction: municipal, agricultural and industry. We must make sure any policy adopted allows us to continue to produce food and fiber. KFB will host a series of 2-hour moderated discussions around the state to gather feedback on possible policy changes. All meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. and are scheduled for the following locations:

Participants are encouraged to register at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=5d1dbb9c39&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.kfb.org/advocacy</a>. We know your time now is precious and this is not an easy time of year to get away, but we must get moving on this now, so we have policy ready to be voted on at KFB’s annual meeting in December. I cannot emphasize enough how much we need everyone to participate. I would also ask that you do some research and education and become acquainted with water policy from all across the state and not just your own area. Our water issues are many and varied and we must produce a unified policy that will best represent our varied needs. Again, I cannot say strongly enough how important this issue is or how much your ideas and opinions are needed. Please plan to attend one of these meetings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherHow many old westerns have we seen the hero crawling across the desert, desperate to find a drink of water? He turns his canteen upside down and only sand runs out. Or the cattle baron uses unscrupulous methods to gain the water rights of the small ranches. Water has been the source of conflict since the dawn of mankind. It is the one thing that sustains life, the one thing without which we can’t live. That is one absolute that we cannot change, and conflict over water will only become more serious in the future. Water is absolutely critical to those of us in agriculture. It is necessary for our crops and livestock. I am not telling you anything you do not know. However, we need to have a serious discussion about water and water rights. Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) water policy has grown over the years, but it is something we need to take a deep dive into. Maybe the policy we have is good enough, but I suspect we need to make some changes. Those changes might be small tweaks, or they might be major overhauls. It is up to you, the grassroots Farm Bureau member. That is why we are hosting a series of meetings around the state, and I am imploring you to attend one and add your opinion to the process. This may be the biggest issue we have ever faced and one that will shape agriculture in Kansas for a long time. If we are not at the table, decisions will be made without our input that could have catastrophic consequences. I don’t know how to make this any clearer or any more urgent. There are parties involved are pulling from every direction: municipal, agricultural and industry. We must make sure any policy adopted allows us to continue to produce food and fiber. KFB will host a series of 2-hour moderated discussions around the state to gather feedback on possible policy changes. All meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. and are scheduled for the following locations:<ul>
 <li>June 28, Manhattan</li><li>June 29, Hoxie</li><li>July 6, Hutchinson</li><li>July 7, Dodge City</li><li>July 14, Burlington</li>
 </ul>Participants are encouraged to register at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=5d1dbb9c39&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.kfb.org/advocacy</a>. We know your time now is precious and this is not an easy time of year to get away, but we must get moving on this now, so we have policy ready to be voted on at KFB’s annual meeting in December. I cannot emphasize enough how much we need everyone to participate. I would also ask that you do some research and education and become acquainted with water policy from all across the state and not just your own area. Our water issues are many and varied and we must produce a unified policy that will best represent our varied needs. Again, I cannot say strongly enough how important this issue is or how much your ideas and opinions are needed. Please plan to attend one of these meetings."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Diving into water policy

WICHITA&nbsp;– Today an alliance of over 200 Kansas Medical and Mental Health&nbsp;Professionals
has publicly issued a statement&nbsp;expressing support for the Value Them
Both&nbsp;constitutional amendment.

At present, the group consists of more than 120 doctors,
including nine OBGYNs, 70 family&nbsp;medicine physicians, and additional
representatives from the fields of neurosurgery, cardiology,&nbsp;anesthesia,
surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, pathology, emergency medicine, and
other&nbsp;essential specialties. Doctors of Pharmacy, nurses, and licensed
psychotherapists and counselors&nbsp;round out the coalition. The coalition is
expected to grow in coming weeks.

Dr. Kelly Byrd, a Kansas City-based pediatrician raised in
Wichita, spoke on behalf of the&nbsp;coalition.

“We’re here to represent over 200 Medical and Mental
Health Professionals in support of the&nbsp;Value Them Both Amendment,” said
Byrd. “We came together through colleague-to-colleague&nbsp;outreach because
all of us share a dedication for caring for the physical health and
emotional&nbsp;well-being of our patients. Together we’ve written an open
letter to explain why passing the&nbsp;Value Them Both Amendment is vital to
returning our state to a place where the abortion&nbsp;industry is not left
unlimited or unregulated and should not be allowed to police itself.”

Dr. Lisa Gilbert, a Wichita-based family physician providing full-spectrum
primary care,&nbsp;including women’s health and obstetrics, said coalition
members, “had become aware that an&nbsp;unprecedented Kansas Supreme Court
decision in 2019 removed the legal foundation for decades&nbsp;of
bipartisan-passed, common-sense laws regulating abortion practices.”

“The court decreed that virtually any limitation or regulation
on abortion are presumed&nbsp;unconstitutional,” said Gilbert. “This sweeping
2019 ruling was then used to strike down basic&nbsp;protections for women,
including standard inspection, safety, and sanitation requirements
for&nbsp;abortion facilities. Sadly, Kansas is a destination for extreme
abortions”

Mackenzie Haddix,
spokesperson for the Value Them Both Coalition, which is leading
statewide&nbsp;grassroots efforts to promote passage of the amendment,
expressed appreciation for the group’s&nbsp;support.

“We know that highly-educated medical and mental health
professionals are the most valued and&nbsp;respected voices when it comes to
the health and well-being of women and children. We’re&nbsp;grateful for their
support in solidarity with the Value Them Both Coalition and hundreds
of&nbsp;thousands of Kansans who share the belief that women deserve better
than to be left vulnerable&nbsp;to an unregulated abortion industry.”

The coalition welcomes others to join in support of the&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-qvr9z6ZjK-eIzxmmuuBYbpvvuLis7XN/view">statement</a>,
by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:media@valuethemboth.com">media@valuethemboth.com</a>.
Membership list is available to members of the media upon request.

The Value Them Both Coalition is made up of Kansas citizens and
groups who believe every&nbsp;human life has value. We are committed to
advocating across our&nbsp;state for the passage of the Value Them Both
Amendment to ensure that Kansas can stop&nbsp;unlimited abortion from coming to
our state and can continue to pass laws that put the health and&nbsp;safety of
mothers and babies before the abortion industry. We are led by Kansans for
Life,&nbsp;Kansas Catholic Conference, and Kansas Family Voice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWICHITA&nbsp;– Today an alliance of over 200 Kansas Medical and Mental Health&nbsp;Professionals
has publicly issued a statement&nbsp;expressing support for the Value Them
Both&nbsp;constitutional amendment.At present, the group consists of more than 120 doctors,
including nine OBGYNs, 70 family&nbsp;medicine physicians, and additional
representatives from the fields of neurosurgery, cardiology,&nbsp;anesthesia,
surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, pathology, emergency medicine, and
other&nbsp;essential specialties. Doctors of Pharmacy, nurses, and licensed
psychotherapists and counselors&nbsp;round out the coalition. The coalition is
expected to grow in coming weeks.Dr. Kelly Byrd, a Kansas City-based pediatrician raised in
Wichita, spoke on behalf of the&nbsp;coalition.“We’re here to represent over 200 Medical and Mental
Health Professionals in support of the&nbsp;Value Them Both Amendment,” said
Byrd. “We came together through colleague-to-colleague&nbsp;outreach because
all of us share a dedication for caring for the physical health and
emotional&nbsp;well-being of our patients. Together we’ve written an open
letter to explain why passing the&nbsp;Value Them Both Amendment is vital to
returning our state to a place where the abortion&nbsp;industry is not left
unlimited or unregulated and should not be allowed to police itself.”Dr. Lisa Gilbert, a Wichita-based family physician providing full-spectrum
primary care,&nbsp;including women’s health and obstetrics, said coalition
members, “had become aware that an&nbsp;unprecedented Kansas Supreme Court
decision in 2019 removed the legal foundation for decades&nbsp;of
bipartisan-passed, common-sense laws regulating abortion practices.”“The court decreed that virtually any limitation or regulation
on abortion are presumed&nbsp;unconstitutional,” said Gilbert. “This sweeping
2019 ruling was then used to strike down basic&nbsp;protections for women,
including standard inspection, safety, and sanitation requirements
for&nbsp;abortion facilities. Sadly, Kansas is a destination for extreme
abortions”Mackenzie Haddix,
spokesperson for the Value Them Both Coalition, which is leading
statewide&nbsp;grassroots efforts to promote passage of the amendment,
expressed appreciation for the group’s&nbsp;support.“We know that highly-educated medical and mental health
professionals are the most valued and&nbsp;respected voices when it comes to
the health and well-being of women and children. We’re&nbsp;grateful for their
support in solidarity with the Value Them Both Coalition and hundreds
of&nbsp;thousands of Kansans who share the belief that women deserve better
than to be left vulnerable&nbsp;to an unregulated abortion industry.”The coalition welcomes others to join in support of the&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-qvr9z6ZjK-eIzxmmuuBYbpvvuLis7XN/view">statement</a>,
by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:media@valuethemboth.com">media@valuethemboth.com</a>.
Membership list is available to members of the media upon request.The Value Them Both Coalition is made up of Kansas citizens and
groups who believe every&nbsp;human life has value. We are committed to
advocating across our&nbsp;state for the passage of the Value Them Both
Amendment to ensure that Kansas can stop&nbsp;unlimited abortion from coming to
our state and can continue to pass laws that put the health and&nbsp;safety of
mothers and babies before the abortion industry. We are led by Kansans for
Life,&nbsp;Kansas Catholic Conference, and Kansas Family Voice.— Submitted

Kan. medical, mental health professionals announce support for Value Them Both constitutional amendment

I live with my boyfriend, and we have a baby together. I brought debt into the relationship, and I’m using your debt snowball method to pay it off, but he is debt-free. We have quite a few shared expenses that we split 50-50, but that means we are constantly reimbursing each other. Should we keep our finances separate until I pay off my debt, or is it okay to combine everything now? I’m 26, and we love each other and want to get married, but he makes quite a bit more money than I do. I feel guilty taking that step when I still have debt.

I don’t tell people they have to wait until they’re out of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-to-income-ratio-calculator">debt</a>&nbsp;to get married. I don’t tell people they should wait until they’re debt-free to have children, either. Listen, you two love each other. You have a baby together, you live together and you’re trying to figure out a way to combine incomes and everything else—except the debt. Too late. That ship has sailed.

Here’s some arm-around-your-shoulder, old-man advice. The best thing for that baby, and the best thing for you and your boyfriend, is for you two to get married and combine your incomes, combine your lives—<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/the-truth-about-money-and-relationships?int_cmpgn=no_campaign&amp;int_dept=dr_blog_bu&amp;int_lctn=Blog-Text_Link&amp;int_fmt=text&amp;int_dscpn=budgeting_myths_blog-inline_link_truth_about_money_and_relationships">combine&nbsp;everything</a>—and join it all so tight it cannot be torn apart. Then, go live a beautiful, glorious life together. Getting out of debt is part of the adventure. Raising that child together is part of the adventure. Waking up and looking at your husband when he starts to lose his hair is part of the adventure.

It’s very difficult legally&nbsp;and&nbsp;relationally to play house financially when you’re not married. You get into stupid arguments over who bought the mustard when you’re sharing the same bed. It’s just so inconsistent and incongruent. That’s the system you’re using now, but there are better things waiting for you.&nbsp;

I’m not being judgmental, Dakota. I just want good things—the best things—for you and your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/how-to-be-more-intentional-family-time">family</a>.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is an eight-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648177011035.png" alt="Dave Ramsey&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,I live with my boyfriend, and we have a baby together. I brought debt into the relationship, and I’m using your debt snowball method to pay it off, but he is debt-free. We have quite a few shared expenses that we split 50-50, but that means we are constantly reimbursing each other. Should we keep our finances separate until I pay off my debt, or is it okay to combine everything now? I’m 26, and we love each other and want to get married, but he makes quite a bit more money than I do. I feel guilty taking that step when I still have debt.DakotaDear Dakota,I don’t tell people they have to wait until they’re out of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-to-income-ratio-calculator">debt</a>&nbsp;to get married. I don’t tell people they should wait until they’re debt-free to have children, either. Listen, you two love each other. You have a baby together, you live together and you’re trying to figure out a way to combine incomes and everything else—except the debt. Too late. That ship has sailed.Here’s some arm-around-your-shoulder, old-man advice. The best thing for that baby, and the best thing for you and your boyfriend, is for you two to get married and combine your incomes, combine your lives—<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/the-truth-about-money-and-relationships?int_cmpgn=no_campaign&amp;int_dept=dr_blog_bu&amp;int_lctn=Blog-Text_Link&amp;int_fmt=text&amp;int_dscpn=budgeting_myths_blog-inline_link_truth_about_money_and_relationships">combine&nbsp;everything</a>—and join it all so tight it cannot be torn apart. Then, go live a beautiful, glorious life together. Getting out of debt is part of the adventure. Raising that child together is part of the adventure. Waking up and looking at your husband when he starts to lose his hair is part of the adventure.It’s very difficult legally&nbsp;and&nbsp;relationally to play house financially when you’re not married. You get into stupid arguments over who bought the mustard when you’re sharing the same bed. It’s just so inconsistent and incongruent. That’s the system you’re using now, but there are better things waiting for you.&nbsp;I’m not being judgmental, Dakota. I just want good things—the best things—for you and your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/how-to-be-more-intentional-family-time">family</a>.— Dave<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is an eight-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Dave Says: Combine … everything

KANSAS LEGISLATURE ADJOURNS SINE DIE ON MAY 23RD

On May 23rd, the Kansas Legislature wrapped up the 2022 regular session.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The day included two additional veto overrides and the passage of two tax bills, one of which headed to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The session was able to conclude on one day due to the Kansas Supreme Court ruling that both the Congressional and state legislative maps were constitutional in a decision rendered last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Known in the legislature as Sine Die, it officially marks the final adjournment for the 2022 Legislative Session and ended on Day 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Senate sent 45 bills to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;There was a total of 266 Senate bills introduced in 2022 for a total during this last two-year cycle of 581. 

Barring a special session, the full legislature will return on January 9th, 2023.

SENATE FLOOR ACTION&nbsp; The first veto override was on HB 2252.&nbsp; This bill prevents the governor or Secretary of State from entering into a consent decree or other agreements without approval of the legislature regarding the alteration of election procedures or the enforcement of election law.&nbsp; This was a simple separation of powers issue, as it is the legislature which enacts law and therefore any change to that law should be by the legislature as well.&nbsp; The Senate voted to override the governor’s veto on a vote of 27-10. The House also voted to override the veto; therefore, the measure will now become law.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;

The second veto override was on HB 2387.&nbsp; The bill contains two important provisions. First, it prevents the governor from closing churches during an emergency as in 2020.&nbsp; Secondly, it states that the governor nor the administration can issue a request for proposal for the administration and provision of benefits under the medical assistance program or enter into any new contract with managed care organizations for the administration and provision of benefits under the medical assistance program until January 31, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Senate voted to override the governor’s veto on a vote of 27-10. The House also voted to override the veto; therefore, the measure will now become law.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;

Both the Senate and House passed HB 2136, which provides targeted tax relief in two ways.&nbsp; First, it would eliminate a provision requiring retailers with annual sales tax liability in excess of $40,000 to remit estimated payment for the first 15 days of the current month when the tax return for the previous month is filed.&nbsp; Second, it would enact the COVID-19 Retail Storefront Property Tax Relief Act to provide for claims for refunds to be paid for tax years 2020 and 2021 for certain claimants that were operationally shut down or restricted at their retail storefront by a COVID-19-related order or action imposed by the State, a local unit of government, or a local health officer.&nbsp;&nbsp;HB 2136 passed the Senate 35-0. It then also passed the House and is now headed to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;

HAVE FUN WITH SUMMER READING – KANSAS STATE LIBRARY

Summer reading programs at public libraries in Kansas offer creative, fun, and FREE ways to build a love for reading. This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibilities: from pirates to sea creatures, from ocean exploration and navigation to sunken treasure. Take a deep dive into books and come up for air at fun and free events. Programs typically take place from late May until late July or early August. Check your local library for their dates.

The State Library has downloadable books for all ages: audiobooks, e-books, and digital storybooks are available to all Kansas residents. Some of the benefits of downloadable books:

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2Fdigitalbooks&amp;data=04%7C01%7CCindy.Roupe%40ks.gov%7Ca27ca5e5ad2b49fd869d08d91006efbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637558444235964611%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=qhqnFRdmq7V0YjI8kzbidERoJSpC2SlAuxFQYN55S90%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info/digitalbooks</a>&nbsp;to learn more. New users will want to check the “Instructions &amp; Devices” link.&nbsp; Choose your device and you’ll see which services work with it along with an instructions link. Most resources will need a Kansas Library eCard, which you may get at any public, school, or academic library in Kansas.&nbsp; Need help with setup? Call 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kslc@ks.gov" target="_blank">kslc@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;.

UNCLAIMED PROPERTY IN KANSAS&nbsp;&nbsp;

The State of Kansas has over $400 million dollars in unclaimed property waiting for the rightful owner to find and claim. Unclaimed property stats from the first of the year include 437,320 searches, $8,065,732.67 returned with the average claim paid at $1999.47.&nbsp;&nbsp;These holdings at the Treasurer’s office include bank accounts, cash, stocks, bonds, refunds (utilities), royalties, insurance proceeds and even safe deposit box contents.&nbsp;

To search for your name, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasstatetreasurer.com/" target="_blank">www.kansasstatetreasurer.com</a>&nbsp;and enter your name or business name to see if your name is on this list.&nbsp;&nbsp;Senate District #36 has over 4,000 entries in the thirteen counties it covers.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you would like more personal assistance, call 800-432-0386 or 785-296-4165.&nbsp;

&nbsp;KANSAS SECRETARY OF STATE&nbsp;

The Secretary of State is one of four state offices authorized by the&nbsp;Kansas Constitution. Although created by the state constitution, the duties of the office are defined by almost 1,000 state laws. Among the many duties of the Office of the Kansas Secretary of State is maintaining primary responsibility for administering elections, collecting certain records of Kansas businesses and publishing the official publications for the State of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The agency oversees cemeteries, Kansas notaries and even trademarks.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a result, hundreds of thousands of documents are kept by the Secretary of State. Generally, they fall into four categories – executive, legislative, elections and business.&nbsp;&nbsp;You will also be able to find election facts answering recent questions related to audits, voting machines and election processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several YouTube Videos highlighting the agency and brief clips on processes can be found on their website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sos.ks.gov/" target="_blank">www.sos.ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF APPOINTMENTS

The Office of Appointments assists the governor with the appointment of over 1,000 individuals to serve on Kansas’ boards and commissions. All qualified and service-minded Kansans are encouraged to participate in our state's government by offering to serve on a board or commission or by recommending qualified candidates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">https://governor.kansas.gov</a>. Find the Serving Kansans tab where you will find a screen to apply for service.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are interested in the opportunity to serve or would like to nominate someone, please call the office at 785 368-8500 or apply online.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH RE-RUNS OF LEGISLATIVE CHAMBER AND COMMITTEE ACTION

If you would like to review the past session - Senate and House floor activity or watch committee hearings from each Chamber – you are able to find many choices at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/" target="_blank">Kansas Legislature Audio</a>.

The 2023 Kansas Legislative Session will begin January 9th&nbsp;at 2:00 p.m. when we will be back in our offices at the Capitol in Topeka.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Over the summer and fall, I may be reached at my legislative email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or my work email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elaine@concordiaautomart.com" target="_blank">elaine@concordiaautomart.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;My work address in Concordia is 212 E. 6th&nbsp;St., Concordia, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;66901 and if you are in Concordia, drop by.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My daytime work number is 785 243-3325x2 or email me questions, concerns or ideas for legislative bills for the next session.&nbsp;

Visit the&nbsp;Kansas Legislature website in the off session at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;which has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills, past sessions, historical data, internships, and pages for next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is an honor to serve you in the 36th&nbsp;Kansas Senate District and please feel free to contact me anytime.

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644853578448.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist." />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS LEGISLATURE ADJOURNS SINE DIE ON MAY 23RDOn May 23rd, the Kansas Legislature wrapped up the 2022 regular session.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The day included two additional veto overrides and the passage of two tax bills, one of which headed to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;The session was able to conclude on one day due to the Kansas Supreme Court ruling that both the Congressional and state legislative maps were constitutional in a decision rendered last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Known in the legislature as Sine Die, it officially marks the final adjournment for the 2022 Legislative Session and ended on Day 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Senate sent 45 bills to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;There was a total of 266 Senate bills introduced in 2022 for a total during this last two-year cycle of 581. Barring a special session, the full legislature will return on January 9th, 2023.SENATE FLOOR ACTION&nbsp; The first veto override was on HB 2252.&nbsp; This bill prevents the governor or Secretary of State from entering into a consent decree or other agreements without approval of the legislature regarding the alteration of election procedures or the enforcement of election law.&nbsp; This was a simple separation of powers issue, as it is the legislature which enacts law and therefore any change to that law should be by the legislature as well.&nbsp; The Senate voted to override the governor’s veto on a vote of 27-10. The House also voted to override the veto; therefore, the measure will now become law.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;The second veto override was on HB 2387.&nbsp; The bill contains two important provisions. First, it prevents the governor from closing churches during an emergency as in 2020.&nbsp; Secondly, it states that the governor nor the administration can issue a request for proposal for the administration and provision of benefits under the medical assistance program or enter into any new contract with managed care organizations for the administration and provision of benefits under the medical assistance program until January 31, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Senate voted to override the governor’s veto on a vote of 27-10. The House also voted to override the veto; therefore, the measure will now become law.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;Both the Senate and House passed HB 2136, which provides targeted tax relief in two ways.&nbsp; First, it would eliminate a provision requiring retailers with annual sales tax liability in excess of $40,000 to remit estimated payment for the first 15 days of the current month when the tax return for the previous month is filed.&nbsp; Second, it would enact the COVID-19 Retail Storefront Property Tax Relief Act to provide for claims for refunds to be paid for tax years 2020 and 2021 for certain claimants that were operationally shut down or restricted at their retail storefront by a COVID-19-related order or action imposed by the State, a local unit of government, or a local health officer.&nbsp;&nbsp;HB 2136 passed the Senate 35-0. It then also passed the House and is now headed to the governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;I voted yes.&nbsp;HAVE FUN WITH SUMMER READING – KANSAS STATE LIBRARYSummer reading programs at public libraries in Kansas offer creative, fun, and FREE ways to build a love for reading. This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibilities: from pirates to sea creatures, from ocean exploration and navigation to sunken treasure. Take a deep dive into books and come up for air at fun and free events. Programs typically take place from late May until late July or early August. Check your local library for their dates.Summer Reading for AllThe State Library has downloadable books for all ages: audiobooks, e-books, and digital storybooks are available to all Kansas residents. Some of the benefits of downloadable books:<ul>
 <li>You don’t have to worry about lost books at the end of the summer. Once a book is finished, it automatically returns to its digital home.</li><li>E-books are basically indestructible.</li><li>No heavy bag of books to take on trips.</li>
 </ul>Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkslib.info%2Fdigitalbooks&amp;data=04%7C01%7CCindy.Roupe%40ks.gov%7Ca27ca5e5ad2b49fd869d08d91006efbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637558444235964611%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=qhqnFRdmq7V0YjI8kzbidERoJSpC2SlAuxFQYN55S90%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info/digitalbooks</a>&nbsp;to learn more. New users will want to check the “Instructions &amp; Devices” link.&nbsp; Choose your device and you’ll see which services work with it along with an instructions link. Most resources will need a Kansas Library eCard, which you may get at any public, school, or academic library in Kansas.&nbsp; Need help with setup? Call 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kslc@ks.gov" target="_blank">kslc@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;.UNCLAIMED PROPERTY IN KANSAS&nbsp;&nbsp;The State of Kansas has over $400 million dollars in unclaimed property waiting for the rightful owner to find and claim. Unclaimed property stats from the first of the year include 437,320 searches, $8,065,732.67 returned with the average claim paid at $1999.47.&nbsp;&nbsp;These holdings at the Treasurer’s office include bank accounts, cash, stocks, bonds, refunds (utilities), royalties, insurance proceeds and even safe deposit box contents.&nbsp;To search for your name, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasstatetreasurer.com/" target="_blank">www.kansasstatetreasurer.com</a>&nbsp;and enter your name or business name to see if your name is on this list.&nbsp;&nbsp;Senate District #36 has over 4,000 entries in the thirteen counties it covers.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you would like more personal assistance, call 800-432-0386 or 785-296-4165.&nbsp;&nbsp;KANSAS SECRETARY OF STATE&nbsp;The Secretary of State is one of four state offices authorized by the&nbsp;Kansas Constitution. Although created by the state constitution, the duties of the office are defined by almost 1,000 state laws. Among the many duties of the Office of the Kansas Secretary of State is maintaining primary responsibility for administering elections, collecting certain records of Kansas businesses and publishing the official publications for the State of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The agency oversees cemeteries, Kansas notaries and even trademarks.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a result, hundreds of thousands of documents are kept by the Secretary of State. Generally, they fall into four categories – executive, legislative, elections and business.&nbsp;&nbsp;You will also be able to find election facts answering recent questions related to audits, voting machines and election processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several YouTube Videos highlighting the agency and brief clips on processes can be found on their website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sos.ks.gov/" target="_blank">www.sos.ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF APPOINTMENTSThe Office of Appointments assists the governor with the appointment of over 1,000 individuals to serve on Kansas’ boards and commissions. All qualified and service-minded Kansans are encouraged to participate in our state's government by offering to serve on a board or commission or by recommending qualified candidates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">https://governor.kansas.gov</a>. Find the Serving Kansans tab where you will find a screen to apply for service.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are interested in the opportunity to serve or would like to nominate someone, please call the office at 785 368-8500 or apply online.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH RE-RUNS OF LEGISLATIVE CHAMBER AND COMMITTEE ACTIONIf you would like to review the past session - Senate and House floor activity or watch committee hearings from each Chamber – you are able to find many choices at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/" target="_blank">Kansas Legislature Audio</a>.OFF SESSION CONTACT INFORMATIONThe 2023 Kansas Legislative Session will begin January 9th&nbsp;at 2:00 p.m. when we will be back in our offices at the Capitol in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the summer and fall, I may be reached at my legislative email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or my work email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elaine@concordiaautomart.com" target="_blank">elaine@concordiaautomart.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;My work address in Concordia is 212 E. 6th&nbsp;St., Concordia, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;66901 and if you are in Concordia, drop by.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My daytime work number is 785 243-3325x2 or email me questions, concerns or ideas for legislative bills for the next session.&nbsp;Visit the&nbsp;Kansas Legislature website in the off session at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;which has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills, past sessions, historical data, internships, and pages for next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is an honor to serve you in the 36th&nbsp;Kansas Senate District and please feel free to contact me anytime.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov</a> 785-296-7389 <a href="https://elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">https://elainebowers.com/</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas which includes:* Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell,&nbsp;Smith and Washington Counties * Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville;&nbsp;Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek,&nbsp;Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville * Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg;&nbsp;Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom,&nbsp;Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum,&nbsp;Rushville, Solomon (part), Sumner,&nbsp;Valley and Walnut

BOWERS: Senate Scene 2022 legislative wrap-up

This placeholder name derives from my own cohort’s moniker—Generation X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gen X took our name from a novel by Douglas Coupland.&nbsp;&nbsp;We see ourselves as so ironic, jaded and snarky, the only way to name us is to choose a non-name, like Malcom X did.&nbsp;&nbsp;Future generations should not be bound by this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Generation Y was quickly renamed Millennials, and now it is time for Gen Z to get a permanent name.

San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge proposes to rename Gen Z as iGen, or Internet Generation, more specifically referencing Apple’s iPhone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her research indicates a sharp, generational break occurring right around the time people became teenagers in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;iGen never experienced teenage or adult life without wireless, Internet-capable mobile devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their phones and social media accounts are integral to their self-identities and their lives.

Twenge cites surveys of teenagers conducted since the mid-1970s, allowing her to compare different cohorts at the same point in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;She finds that iGen is more focused on security and more anxious than the later Boomers, Gen X, or Millennials.&nbsp;&nbsp;She also points out that are in no hurry to act like adults, for example by learning to drive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge finds that they wait longer to become sexually active but are more likely to exchange explicit images through texting and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;This has both positive implications (fewer teen pregnancies and less transmission of STIs) and negative ones (the images can be abused by bullies).&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, they log several hours of screen time per day, usually checking social media or playing video games.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Like many other social scientists, Twenge documents that “none” is fastest-growing religious affiliation among iGen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most passionately advocate full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some churches and other faith traditions are open and affirming, but many are not.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Many iGeners also reject intolerance based on race, ethnicity, ability, or gender.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inclusiveness is a passion and an expectation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge notes that most of their social media contacts are people they have never met in person, including people in other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many are furious at older generations for doing too little about climate change.

In the classroom, I find iGen to be kind and sincere.&nbsp;&nbsp;They get impatient if they cannot see the immediate, practical value of something.&nbsp;&nbsp;This can be frustrating, particularly if parents get involved— once unimaginable at the college level, but a common scenario today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some grew up reading entire book series (like Harry Potter), others have never finished a single book, and few are in between.

I like iGen—their kindness, their inclusion, and their insistence on getting something meaningful out of every experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Theirs will not be a generation of clock watchers, paper pushers or box checkers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, I have never seen such high levels of anxiety among college students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting well before the pandemic, they fear the future, worry too much about getting things just right, and crave security.&nbsp;Twenge pins the blame to overreliance on smartphones and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;I also wish our society had a healthier relationship with faith and spirituality--more awareness of options beyond evangelical and “none.”&nbsp;

Will iGen be able to become adults and still find the meaning, happiness, and the security they crave?&nbsp;&nbsp;Their future—and ours—depends on it.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>What shall we call “Generation Z”?This placeholder name derives from my own cohort’s moniker—Generation X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gen X took our name from a novel by Douglas Coupland.&nbsp;&nbsp;We see ourselves as so ironic, jaded and snarky, the only way to name us is to choose a non-name, like Malcom X did.&nbsp;&nbsp;Future generations should not be bound by this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Generation Y was quickly renamed Millennials, and now it is time for Gen Z to get a permanent name.San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge proposes to rename Gen Z as iGen, or Internet Generation, more specifically referencing Apple’s iPhone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her research indicates a sharp, generational break occurring right around the time people became teenagers in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;iGen never experienced teenage or adult life without wireless, Internet-capable mobile devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their phones and social media accounts are integral to their self-identities and their lives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Twenge cites surveys of teenagers conducted since the mid-1970s, allowing her to compare different cohorts at the same point in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;She finds that iGen is more focused on security and more anxious than the later Boomers, Gen X, or Millennials.&nbsp;&nbsp;She also points out that are in no hurry to act like adults, for example by learning to drive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge finds that they wait longer to become sexually active but are more likely to exchange explicit images through texting and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;This has both positive implications (fewer teen pregnancies and less transmission of STIs) and negative ones (the images can be abused by bullies).&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, they log several hours of screen time per day, usually checking social media or playing video games.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like many other social scientists, Twenge documents that “none” is fastest-growing religious affiliation among iGen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most passionately advocate full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some churches and other faith traditions are open and affirming, but many are not.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Many iGeners also reject intolerance based on race, ethnicity, ability, or gender.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inclusiveness is a passion and an expectation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenge notes that most of their social media contacts are people they have never met in person, including people in other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many are furious at older generations for doing too little about climate change.In the classroom, I find iGen to be kind and sincere.&nbsp;&nbsp;They get impatient if they cannot see the immediate, practical value of something.&nbsp;&nbsp;This can be frustrating, particularly if parents get involved— once unimaginable at the college level, but a common scenario today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some grew up reading entire book series (like Harry Potter), others have never finished a single book, and few are in between.I like iGen—their kindness, their inclusion, and their insistence on getting something meaningful out of every experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Theirs will not be a generation of clock watchers, paper pushers or box checkers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, I have never seen such high levels of anxiety among college students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting well before the pandemic, they fear the future, worry too much about getting things just right, and crave security.&nbsp;Twenge pins the blame to overreliance on smartphones and social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;I also wish our society had a healthier relationship with faith and spirituality--more awareness of options beyond evangelical and “none.”&nbsp;Will iGen be able to become adults and still find the meaning, happiness, and the security they crave?&nbsp;&nbsp;Their future—and ours—depends on it.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Time for Gen Z to get a permanent name

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Can one man’s journey change history?&nbsp;

“Yes,” said writer and historian Deb Goodrich. She points to William Becknell’s 1821 trade mission to Mexico as a pivotal point in the history of the west. Now she is leading the effort to commemorate the bicentennial of the Santa Fe Trail.&nbsp;

Goodrich is a journalist, historian and television host. A Virginia native, she was a student at Washburn University who became enamored of western history. She is now historian in residence at Fort Wallace in Kansas. Among many other things, she chairs the Santa Fe Trail 200 committee, which is commemorating the bicentennial of this historic trail.&nbsp;

“In 1821, change was racing across the west like a prairie fire,” Goodrich said. “Missouri was a brand new state and Mexico was a newly liberated nation.”&nbsp;

Missouri was also in a financial depression. A Missouri salt-maker named William Becknell was one of those in financial trouble. He was on the verge of going to jail because he could not pay his debts.&nbsp;

In September 1821, Becknell and five companions headed west to hunt and trade horses and mules. They traveled hundreds of miles by horseback through challenging territory. Nearly two-and-a-half months later, they arrived in Santa Fe.&nbsp;

Their timing was good. Since Mexico had just gained its independence from Spain, its citizens were eager to trade with the neighboring country to the north, unlike the Spanish conquistadors. According to legend, Becknell’s trade mission was so successful that when he returned to Missouri, he slashed open a rawhide bag of silver coins and spilled onto the cobblestone street. Observers literally saw the riches resulting from this trading relationship, and others joined in.&nbsp;

“Becknell’s legendary trip inaugurated a new era in American and Mexican history,” Goodrich said. “While William Becknell’s successful trip into Mexico was history-making, it was only opening the door.” Eventually this region would become the state of New Mexico.&nbsp;

There were also consequences for the indigenous tribes and the military in this region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Native tribes were displaced. Military posts were established, including Fort Riley, Fort Larned and more.&nbsp;

This was the beginning of what would become the great prairie highway now known as the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. In 1825, George Sibley surveyed what would become known as the “highway between nations.”&nbsp;

By 1855, the value of traded goods on the trail was estimated at $5 million. This route of commerce functioned for nearly 60 years until the coming of the railroad. Modern highways continue as a route of travel and commerce.&nbsp;

The Santa Fe Trail Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 1986 to protect, preserve and promote the historic trail. Congress designated the Santa Fe Trail as a national historic trail in 1987. Joanne VanCoevern of Salina is the executive director of the SFTA. The SFTA is commemorating the bicentennial of the trail from 2021 to 2025.&nbsp;

“Continuing our official commemoration through 2025 gives us the opportunity to build on the relationships we have established, to expand our audience and share stories on a deeper level,” Goodrich said. Local chapters of the SFTA in Missouri, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico promote the trail in their regions. Notably, more of the trail is found in Kansas than any other state.&nbsp;

Kansas Tourism has developed promotional information about attractions and museums related to the trail in communities such as Olathe, Fairway, Gardner, Leavenworth, Council Grove, Great Bend, Lyons, Dodge City, Ulysses, Elkhart; and rural communities such as Pawnee Rock, population 193 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail.org/">www.santafetrail.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail200.org/">www.santafetrail200.org</a>.&nbsp;

Can one man’s journey change history? In the case of William Becknell two centuries ago, it did.&nbsp;

We commend the chapters of the Santa Fe Trail Association, Deb Goodrich, Joanne VanCoevern, and all others involved with the association for making a difference by promoting and preserving this history.&nbsp;

As stated on the SFTA website: “The Santa Fe Trail was a route of commerce but quickly became a route of cultural exchange that is still with us, and still benefits us, today.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654696606408.png" alt="Screen Shot 2022-06-08 at 8.56.23 AM.png" />
 <figcaption>Screen Shot 2022-06-08 at 8.56.23 AM.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp; Can one man’s journey change history?&nbsp;“Yes,” said writer and historian Deb Goodrich. She points to William Becknell’s 1821 trade mission to Mexico as a pivotal point in the history of the west. Now she is leading the effort to commemorate the bicentennial of the Santa Fe Trail.&nbsp;Goodrich is a journalist, historian and television host. A Virginia native, she was a student at Washburn University who became enamored of western history. She is now historian in residence at Fort Wallace in Kansas. Among many other things, she chairs the Santa Fe Trail 200 committee, which is commemorating the bicentennial of this historic trail.&nbsp;“In 1821, change was racing across the west like a prairie fire,” Goodrich said. “Missouri was a brand new state and Mexico was a newly liberated nation.”&nbsp;Missouri was also in a financial depression. A Missouri salt-maker named William Becknell was one of those in financial trouble. He was on the verge of going to jail because he could not pay his debts.&nbsp;In September 1821, Becknell and five companions headed west to hunt and trade horses and mules. They traveled hundreds of miles by horseback through challenging territory. Nearly two-and-a-half months later, they arrived in Santa Fe.&nbsp;Their timing was good. Since Mexico had just gained its independence from Spain, its citizens were eager to trade with the neighboring country to the north, unlike the Spanish conquistadors. According to legend, Becknell’s trade mission was so successful that when he returned to Missouri, he slashed open a rawhide bag of silver coins and spilled onto the cobblestone street. Observers literally saw the riches resulting from this trading relationship, and others joined in.&nbsp;“Becknell’s legendary trip inaugurated a new era in American and Mexican history,” Goodrich said. “While William Becknell’s successful trip into Mexico was history-making, it was only opening the door.” Eventually this region would become the state of New Mexico.&nbsp;There were also consequences for the indigenous tribes and the military in this region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Native tribes were displaced. Military posts were established, including Fort Riley, Fort Larned and more.&nbsp;This was the beginning of what would become the great prairie highway now known as the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. In 1825, George Sibley surveyed what would become known as the “highway between nations.”&nbsp;By 1855, the value of traded goods on the trail was estimated at $5 million. This route of commerce functioned for nearly 60 years until the coming of the railroad. Modern highways continue as a route of travel and commerce.&nbsp;The Santa Fe Trail Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 1986 to protect, preserve and promote the historic trail. Congress designated the Santa Fe Trail as a national historic trail in 1987. Joanne VanCoevern of Salina is the executive director of the SFTA. The SFTA is commemorating the bicentennial of the trail from 2021 to 2025.&nbsp;“Continuing our official commemoration through 2025 gives us the opportunity to build on the relationships we have established, to expand our audience and share stories on a deeper level,” Goodrich said. Local chapters of the SFTA in Missouri, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico promote the trail in their regions. Notably, more of the trail is found in Kansas than any other state.&nbsp;Kansas Tourism has developed promotional information about attractions and museums related to the trail in communities such as Olathe, Fairway, Gardner, Leavenworth, Council Grove, Great Bend, Lyons, Dodge City, Ulysses, Elkhart; and rural communities such as Pawnee Rock, population 193 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail.org/">www.santafetrail.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.santafetrail200.org/">www.santafetrail200.org</a>.&nbsp;Can one man’s journey change history? In the case of William Becknell two centuries ago, it did.&nbsp;We commend the chapters of the Santa Fe Trail Association, Deb Goodrich, Joanne VanCoevern, and all others involved with the association for making a difference by promoting and preserving this history.&nbsp;As stated on the SFTA website: “The Santa Fe Trail was a route of commerce but quickly became a route of cultural exchange that is still with us, and still benefits us, today.”&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Deb Goodrich, Santa Fe Trail Association 

As a first-generation college student, I know on a deeply personal level the importance of the Fort Hays State University drive to offer the best value in higher education – anywhere! We believe in the transformative power of a college education and how it impacts generations of families and communities.

I have a vivid memory of listening to a colleague talk about the American dream. She described with eloquence the grit and determination in which our nation – and our university – were founded.

In doing so, she used a common phrase: all one needs to do is to “pull oneself up by one’s bootstraps.” I agree. Resilience is&nbsp;definitely to&nbsp;what I attribute my success. Certainly, socioeconomic advancement is something that everyone should be able to experience, right? After all, we live in the United State of America – the land of opportunity. We hear story after story how hard work pays off.

Then, my colleague reminded us that not everyone is born with bootstraps. That’s when I realized that although my college journey did indeed include hard work and sacrifice, I was also blessed with a loving family, caring faculty, and so many more advantages. I realized I was indeed a first-generation student, coming from a modest income home, who had been born with bootstraps.

Through these columns and other presentations, I have shared stories of students who have overcome remarkable odds to get to college and graduate. Students from shattered families and even some without a family. Students who were illegally brought to this country as babies and grew up not knowing they were not citizens – knowledge that painted a very bleak future. Adult students who struggled with addictions, poverty, loss, and even prison sentences. Students without bootstraps.&nbsp;

Each extraordinary story I have shared has ended with a Fort Hays State graduate. I am so proud to be part of a university that has always been focused on making student success equitable and inclusive by expanding opportunities for students who would otherwise have few, if any, options for realizing the American Dream.

Our ability to expand access and success requires many partners. The university itself has embraced a historic commitment to underserved student populations with an exemplary learning and teaching-centered culture. Our philanthropists and community partners have demonstrated consistent generosity through scholarship programs. State and federal government funding have also helped with student access and affordability. One such program is the Pell Grant – need-based grants to low-income undergraduates designed to make college attendance an affordable reality.

Congress is currently considering doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000. Think about the value that would have at Fort Hays State University!

We believe that cost should not be a barrier to the success of our students. Our unmatched value would get even better, help more students, create more bootstraps, should Double Pell come to fruition. Look what Pell has done for Rylie and Slater.

Slater&nbsp;Heglin, from Ulysses, is a senior at Fort Hays State University and a highly respected student leader. He is majoring in business education with a concentration in talent development. Slater is also receiving certificates in leadership studies, human resource management, business management, banking, and marketing. He is involved in the FHSU Society for Human Resource Management, FHSU Foundation &amp; Alumni Association Tigers Forever, Circle K, Collegiate 4-H, and Encounter.&nbsp;

Slater shared that “coming from a single-parent home, I knew from a young age that I would be paying for college on my own.”

He is grateful for the Pell Grant and scholarships that have helped him achieve his goal of graduating debt-free. He has worked diligently to achieve a high GPA, along with his community involvement both on campus and in the community. He works three jobs and applies for many scholarships each year, but Slater acknowledged that Pell Grant has contributed greatly toward his goal of graduating from college debt-free.

“My experience as a college student at Fort Hays State University has been a catalyst in pursuing my life-long passion for servant-leadership,” he said. “Since I have received tremendous support through scholarship and Pell opportunities, I have been able to devote my time and resources to serving in over four organizations and committees on campus.&nbsp; Without the financial support I have received through Pell, I may not have had the opportunity to serve in the capacity that I have thus far.&nbsp; Obtaining my undergraduate and potential graduate degree from FHSU would show that, no matter what background an individual comes from, with hard work, grit and determination, dreams do come true. Fort Hays State University is truly investing in the leaders of today and tomorrow.”

“Higher education would not have been possible for me without the opportunity of being awarded the Pell grant. With the financial burden of college reduced, I have been able to prioritize my studies and focus my time on doing well in classes,” she said. “I am excited to pursue a degree in agriculture education, and the financial responsibilities have been one less thing to worry about because of the Pell.”

Rylie is a sophomore majoring in agriculture education, and like Slater, she will be receiving a certificate in leadership studies.

I do love how our students take such a strong interest in leadership. Rylie works on campus in the Financial Aid office. Even though she benefits from both Pell and other aid, Rylie also works two jobs off campus. By the way, a recent study by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs indicates that 93% of our students work, and 10% work both on-campus and off-campus jobs.

Doubling the Pell Grant would&nbsp;increase the pool&nbsp;of students – students like Rylie and Slater – eligible for the aid, providing more opportunities to attend college. It also would, on average, cut student debt by more than half, according to&nbsp;research&nbsp;by the Gender Equity Policy Institute.

Tiger Nation is a diverse and welcoming community, dedicated to sharing ideas and serving the greater good. On campus, online, and all over the world, we invest in close and lifelong relationships that nurture the humanity in all of us and educate the next generation of globally engaged citizen leaders.

As we continue our important work, on behalf of a young Tisa, Rylie, Slater, and so many other Tigers, I thank our philanthropists and legislators for their investment in higher education, I also join my colleagues in urging our Kansas congressional delegation to push for courageous and meaningful improvements to the Pell Grant program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>As a first-generation college student, I know on a deeply personal level the importance of the Fort Hays State University drive to offer the best value in higher education – anywhere! We believe in the transformative power of a college education and how it impacts generations of families and communities.I have a vivid memory of listening to a colleague talk about the American dream. She described with eloquence the grit and determination in which our nation – and our university – were founded.In doing so, she used a common phrase: all one needs to do is to “pull oneself up by one’s bootstraps.” I agree. Resilience is&nbsp;definitely to&nbsp;what I attribute my success. Certainly, socioeconomic advancement is something that everyone should be able to experience, right? After all, we live in the United State of America – the land of opportunity. We hear story after story how hard work pays off.Then, my colleague reminded us that not everyone is born with bootstraps. That’s when I realized that although my college journey did indeed include hard work and sacrifice, I was also blessed with a loving family, caring faculty, and so many more advantages. I realized I was indeed a first-generation student, coming from a modest income home, who had been born with bootstraps.Through these columns and other presentations, I have shared stories of students who have overcome remarkable odds to get to college and graduate. Students from shattered families and even some without a family. Students who were illegally brought to this country as babies and grew up not knowing they were not citizens – knowledge that painted a very bleak future. Adult students who struggled with addictions, poverty, loss, and even prison sentences. Students without bootstraps.&nbsp;Each extraordinary story I have shared has ended with a Fort Hays State graduate. I am so proud to be part of a university that has always been focused on making student success equitable and inclusive by expanding opportunities for students who would otherwise have few, if any, options for realizing the American Dream.Our ability to expand access and success requires many partners. The university itself has embraced a historic commitment to underserved student populations with an exemplary learning and teaching-centered culture. Our philanthropists and community partners have demonstrated consistent generosity through scholarship programs. State and federal government funding have also helped with student access and affordability. One such program is the Pell Grant – need-based grants to low-income undergraduates designed to make college attendance an affordable reality.Congress is currently considering doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000. Think about the value that would have at Fort Hays State University!We believe that cost should not be a barrier to the success of our students. Our unmatched value would get even better, help more students, create more bootstraps, should Double Pell come to fruition. Look what Pell has done for Rylie and Slater.Slater&nbsp;Heglin, from Ulysses, is a senior at Fort Hays State University and a highly respected student leader. He is majoring in business education with a concentration in talent development. Slater is also receiving certificates in leadership studies, human resource management, business management, banking, and marketing. He is involved in the FHSU Society for Human Resource Management, FHSU Foundation &amp; Alumni Association Tigers Forever, Circle K, Collegiate 4-H, and Encounter.&nbsp;Slater shared that “coming from a single-parent home, I knew from a young age that I would be paying for college on my own.”He is grateful for the Pell Grant and scholarships that have helped him achieve his goal of graduating debt-free. He has worked diligently to achieve a high GPA, along with his community involvement both on campus and in the community. He works three jobs and applies for many scholarships each year, but Slater acknowledged that Pell Grant has contributed greatly toward his goal of graduating from college debt-free.“My experience as a college student at Fort Hays State University has been a catalyst in pursuing my life-long passion for servant-leadership,” he said. “Since I have received tremendous support through scholarship and Pell opportunities, I have been able to devote my time and resources to serving in over four organizations and committees on campus.&nbsp; Without the financial support I have received through Pell, I may not have had the opportunity to serve in the capacity that I have thus far.&nbsp; Obtaining my undergraduate and potential graduate degree from FHSU would show that, no matter what background an individual comes from, with hard work, grit and determination, dreams do come true. Fort Hays State University is truly investing in the leaders of today and tomorrow.”Rylie Zeller from Little River agrees.“Higher education would not have been possible for me without the opportunity of being awarded the Pell grant. With the financial burden of college reduced, I have been able to prioritize my studies and focus my time on doing well in classes,” she said. “I am excited to pursue a degree in agriculture education, and the financial responsibilities have been one less thing to worry about because of the Pell.”Rylie is a sophomore majoring in agriculture education, and like Slater, she will be receiving a certificate in leadership studies.I do love how our students take such a strong interest in leadership. Rylie works on campus in the Financial Aid office. Even though she benefits from both Pell and other aid, Rylie also works two jobs off campus. By the way, a recent study by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs indicates that 93% of our students work, and 10% work both on-campus and off-campus jobs.Doubling the Pell Grant would&nbsp;increase the pool&nbsp;of students – students like Rylie and Slater – eligible for the aid, providing more opportunities to attend college. It also would, on average, cut student debt by more than half, according to&nbsp;research&nbsp;by the Gender Equity Policy Institute.Tiger Nation is a diverse and welcoming community, dedicated to sharing ideas and serving the greater good. On campus, online, and all over the world, we invest in close and lifelong relationships that nurture the humanity in all of us and educate the next generation of globally engaged citizen leaders.As we continue our important work, on behalf of a young Tisa, Rylie, Slater, and so many other Tigers, I thank our philanthropists and legislators for their investment in higher education, I also join my colleagues in urging our Kansas congressional delegation to push for courageous and meaningful improvements to the Pell Grant program.

MASON: Pell Grants vital to student success

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau It’s easy to forget today that agriculture is the foundation of civilization. It’s the process that ended our ceaseless following of food and allowed us to settle into cities. What followed, over the past several millennia is the world we inhabit today. In short, farming and ranching are the essential drivers of the manufacturing- or service-based economy we all enjoy. In the United States, where about 1 in 50 people grow the crops and livestock that end up on our dinner plates, it’s easy to overlook the importance of agriculture. Through our industriousness and separation of labor, we’ve made it easy for generations of citizens to imagine food only comes from the grocery store or the double-doors to a restaurant kitchen. All of that’s true, but it’s also slightly misleading. Fewer than 2 percent of the U.S. population is directly involved in growing the raw inputs—food, fuel, fiber—our nation consumes. But the crops and livestock they produce go on to support the jobs of nearly 1 in 3 Americans, illustrating just how long the road is from farm to fork. It’s worth reading the full report at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=1c8f01abcc&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.feedingtheeconomy.com</a>, but here are the highlights: 43,464,211 jobs, $2.3 Trillion (capitalized for effect) in wages, $182.9 billion in exports and $7.4 trillion in total output. While those numbers are impressive, they’re not exactly representative. After all, we’re talking about the wealthiest country in the world some 12,000 years after humans first began bending the will of nature to their own ends by domesticating plants and animals. But it wasn’t until within the last century that we as species went from accidental agriculturalists to the purposeful planners we are today. Norman Borlaug proved it was possible to dramatically increase crop yields by switching from low-yield crops to high-yield varieties, which had a two-fold effect on the world’s economy. First, increasing the productivity of land meant farmers had more money to invest in labor-saving machinery further boosting their efficiency. Second, while machines did indeed replace many farm workers, the displaced workers were able to find higher-paying manufacturing or service jobs in towns or cities. In a University of Chicago paper, authors Gollin, Hansen and Wingender, speculate that without this transformation, the gross domestic product in the developing world would be half its current level. Or, more realistically, if these advances had simply been delayed by a decade, the world would have missed out on about $83 Trillion (again, capitalized for effect) in benefits from the increased nutrition unleashed by Boulaug and his disciples. To shed even more light on this miraculous achievement that has enriched the lives of everyone today is that agriculture is no longer an extractive industry. Even after the discovery and widespread use of high-yield crops and synthetic fertilizer, agriculture still needed more land to grow the food necessary to nourish a growing population. As the folks at&nbsp;<a href="http://ourworldindata.org/">ourworldindata.org</a>&nbsp;put it, humans cleared one-third of the world’s forests and nearly two-thirds of the grasslands since the end of the last ice age all to sustain our species through agriculture since the only way to expand production was through cultivating wildlands. With the tools provided by modern science and industry, however, that’s no longer the case. In fact, the world has passed “peak agricultural land,” a recent article declared. What that means is farmers and ranchers are producing more food than ever while at the same time reducing the number of acres devoted to that task. In essence, it’s not just everyday people like you and me who are more divorced from how our food is raised. Earth itself is becoming increasingly separated from production agriculture because the riches of production agriculture are being realized in both dollars and the land left unspoiled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau It’s easy to forget today that agriculture is the foundation of civilization. It’s the process that ended our ceaseless following of food and allowed us to settle into cities. What followed, over the past several millennia is the world we inhabit today. In short, farming and ranching are the essential drivers of the manufacturing- or service-based economy we all enjoy. In the United States, where about 1 in 50 people grow the crops and livestock that end up on our dinner plates, it’s easy to overlook the importance of agriculture. Through our industriousness and separation of labor, we’ve made it easy for generations of citizens to imagine food only comes from the grocery store or the double-doors to a restaurant kitchen. All of that’s true, but it’s also slightly misleading. Fewer than 2 percent of the U.S. population is directly involved in growing the raw inputs—food, fuel, fiber—our nation consumes. But the crops and livestock they produce go on to support the jobs of nearly 1 in 3 Americans, illustrating just how long the road is from farm to fork. It’s worth reading the full report at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=1c8f01abcc&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.feedingtheeconomy.com</a>, but here are the highlights: 43,464,211 jobs, $2.3 Trillion (capitalized for effect) in wages, $182.9 billion in exports and $7.4 trillion in total output. While those numbers are impressive, they’re not exactly representative. After all, we’re talking about the wealthiest country in the world some 12,000 years after humans first began bending the will of nature to their own ends by domesticating plants and animals. But it wasn’t until within the last century that we as species went from accidental agriculturalists to the purposeful planners we are today. Norman Borlaug proved it was possible to dramatically increase crop yields by switching from low-yield crops to high-yield varieties, which had a two-fold effect on the world’s economy. First, increasing the productivity of land meant farmers had more money to invest in labor-saving machinery further boosting their efficiency. Second, while machines did indeed replace many farm workers, the displaced workers were able to find higher-paying manufacturing or service jobs in towns or cities. In a University of Chicago paper, authors Gollin, Hansen and Wingender, speculate that without this transformation, the gross domestic product in the developing world would be half its current level. Or, more realistically, if these advances had simply been delayed by a decade, the world would have missed out on about $83 Trillion (again, capitalized for effect) in benefits from the increased nutrition unleashed by Boulaug and his disciples. To shed even more light on this miraculous achievement that has enriched the lives of everyone today is that agriculture is no longer an extractive industry. Even after the discovery and widespread use of high-yield crops and synthetic fertilizer, agriculture still needed more land to grow the food necessary to nourish a growing population. As the folks at&nbsp;<a href="http://ourworldindata.org/">ourworldindata.org</a>&nbsp;put it, humans cleared one-third of the world’s forests and nearly two-thirds of the grasslands since the end of the last ice age all to sustain our species through agriculture since the only way to expand production was through cultivating wildlands. With the tools provided by modern science and industry, however, that’s no longer the case. In fact, the world has passed “peak agricultural land,” a recent article declared. What that means is farmers and ranchers are producing more food than ever while at the same time reducing the number of acres devoted to that task. In essence, it’s not just everyday people like you and me who are more divorced from how our food is raised. Earth itself is becoming increasingly separated from production agriculture because the riches of production agriculture are being realized in both dollars and the land left unspoiled."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Riches of agriculture

With the 2022 Kansas spring turkey season ending, I sat here&nbsp;at my&nbsp;computer&nbsp;recalling spring turkey hunts from the past, and one particular hunt years ago keeps rambling through my mind. Now, everyone knows wild turkeys MUST&nbsp;be hunted from the ground. Sitting on the ground or on a&nbsp;five-gallon&nbsp;bucket until your butt and both legs are numb is just part of the turkey hunting&nbsp;experience, and NOT to do so would certainly be&nbsp;as un-American as eating pizza without potato chips, or owning a corvette with an automatic transmission. Yet&nbsp;there I stood, gazing longingly up the ladder of the&nbsp;landowner’s&nbsp;tree stand thinking what a perfect spot it would be&nbsp;to call-in the gobbler that roamed this&nbsp;wood lot.&nbsp;But I must persevere and not break turkey hunting protocol!

“What a great seat,” I thought to myself as I surveyed my surroundings from above&nbsp;(I’m sure you saw this coming.)&nbsp;At this point several acres of nice timber separated the crop field to my left from the river. Right here is where I wanted to be, but the&nbsp;ground below was unusually void&nbsp;of the normal brush and downed tree limbs that make such good camouflage, so I put out a couple hen decoys and up the tree I went.

My “yelps” were occasionally answered by a gobble from afar, and soon a young gobbler and a hen appeared from the far corner of the crop field and started toward me. “This is too easy” I thought as the pair steadily came my way. At fifty yards, they veered away and taunted me from the edge of the trees, hidden from sight by limbs on the tree next to my perch. For the next forty-five minutes it was a stand-off, and my desire to harvest him soon turned to wishes that he would just leave so I could climb down without totally spooking him and start afresh in the morning.&nbsp;

The next&nbsp;morning,&nbsp;I followed my bouncing flashlight beam across the field, found the proper tree, set the decoys out and scaled the ladder once more up and into the tree stand. This tree stood barely three feet into the woodlot&nbsp;from the edge of the crop field; if I fell out, I’d land in the bean stubble. I figured the gobbler to be roosted at the end of the crop field and along the river, some distance away. Usually you can hear a gobbler even in the dark, as he’ll often gobble at every barking dog,&nbsp;hooting owl&nbsp;or slamming car door, but this morning the woods was unusually quiet. Perhaps that wasn’t good; perhaps I had misdiagnosed where he roosted and would be left high and dry.&nbsp;Trying not to shatter yet another turkey hunting rule of&nbsp;“calling very sparingly while the turkeys are still roosted,”&nbsp;I watched and waited as daylight slowly poured itself across the landscape around me. I yelped softly with the box call and a gobble erupted beside me along the river probably&nbsp;seventy yards away; the rascal was&nbsp;roosting where I had not even considered. For thirty minutes he gobbled away, and I tried to find a good balance between calling back to let him know I was still interested and playing hard to get to make him come find me. For those thirty minutes he seemed not to move, and&nbsp;suddenly he was silent. I called softly a couple times but heard nothing in return. My heart dropped to my toes; what had I done wrong or not done right?&nbsp;

As I tossed the situation around in my mind, a gobble broke the stillness again, this time directly in front of me not far away; he had snuck quietly through the trees and was in the bean stubble where I knew he would see my plastic decoy “jezebels.”&nbsp;Soon I saw him strutting his way toward me in the open field. I put the call aside and brought the shotgun&nbsp;around into position. He got so close I heard him spit each time&nbsp;he&nbsp;fanned out, and could hear the scratching noise as each wingtip drug across the ground. I could see him well, but too many tree limbs were in the way for a sure shot. Like a target in an&nbsp;arcade,&nbsp;he marched back and forth but would not come any closer. I had just read an article where the author&nbsp;warned about placing decoys too close and creating just such a situation. It became another standoff as he remained behind too many limbs for a safe&nbsp;killing shot. I decided it was time for a plan “B”; if he would just step&nbsp;a little closer&nbsp;to the edge of the trees during his little show, he would momentarily be in a small clear spot for a shot.&nbsp;Finally,&nbsp;he appeared to stray a little closer to the trees,&nbsp;so as his back was toward me as he turned, I swung the shotgun around and leaned out around the tree trunk in front of me. He saw or heard me move and immediately&nbsp;dropped his tail feathers to run, but the&nbsp;twelve-gauge&nbsp;nailed him to the ground before he could take more than a couple steps.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;this story leaves&nbsp;some of you turkey hunting purists shaking your heads, I apologize. I’ve never been one to worry much about protocol. Maybe more of you have shot turkeys from tree stands than I know, but if not and the situation presents itself, give it a try. If you&nbsp;decide to&nbsp;try it, access your shooting lanes and place your decoys appropriately to draw the gobbler past you and to put him in a position for a clear shot if he hangs&nbsp;up a ways out. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>With the 2022 Kansas spring turkey season ending, I sat here&nbsp;at my&nbsp;computer&nbsp;recalling spring turkey hunts from the past, and one particular hunt years ago keeps rambling through my mind. Now, everyone knows wild turkeys MUST&nbsp;be hunted from the ground. Sitting on the ground or on a&nbsp;five-gallon&nbsp;bucket until your butt and both legs are numb is just part of the turkey hunting&nbsp;experience, and NOT to do so would certainly be&nbsp;as un-American as eating pizza without potato chips, or owning a corvette with an automatic transmission. Yet&nbsp;there I stood, gazing longingly up the ladder of the&nbsp;landowner’s&nbsp;tree stand thinking what a perfect spot it would be&nbsp;to call-in the gobbler that roamed this&nbsp;wood lot.&nbsp;But I must persevere and not break turkey hunting protocol!“What a great seat,” I thought to myself as I surveyed my surroundings from above&nbsp;(I’m sure you saw this coming.)&nbsp;At this point several acres of nice timber separated the crop field to my left from the river. Right here is where I wanted to be, but the&nbsp;ground below was unusually void&nbsp;of the normal brush and downed tree limbs that make such good camouflage, so I put out a couple hen decoys and up the tree I went.My “yelps” were occasionally answered by a gobble from afar, and soon a young gobbler and a hen appeared from the far corner of the crop field and started toward me. “This is too easy” I thought as the pair steadily came my way. At fifty yards, they veered away and taunted me from the edge of the trees, hidden from sight by limbs on the tree next to my perch. For the next forty-five minutes it was a stand-off, and my desire to harvest him soon turned to wishes that he would just leave so I could climb down without totally spooking him and start afresh in the morning.&nbsp;The next&nbsp;morning,&nbsp;I followed my bouncing flashlight beam across the field, found the proper tree, set the decoys out and scaled the ladder once more up and into the tree stand. This tree stood barely three feet into the woodlot&nbsp;from the edge of the crop field; if I fell out, I’d land in the bean stubble. I figured the gobbler to be roosted at the end of the crop field and along the river, some distance away. Usually you can hear a gobbler even in the dark, as he’ll often gobble at every barking dog,&nbsp;hooting owl&nbsp;or slamming car door, but this morning the woods was unusually quiet. Perhaps that wasn’t good; perhaps I had misdiagnosed where he roosted and would be left high and dry.&nbsp;Trying not to shatter yet another turkey hunting rule of&nbsp;“calling very sparingly while the turkeys are still roosted,”&nbsp;I watched and waited as daylight slowly poured itself across the landscape around me. I yelped softly with the box call and a gobble erupted beside me along the river probably&nbsp;seventy yards away; the rascal was&nbsp;roosting where I had not even considered. For thirty minutes he gobbled away, and I tried to find a good balance between calling back to let him know I was still interested and playing hard to get to make him come find me. For those thirty minutes he seemed not to move, and&nbsp;suddenly he was silent. I called softly a couple times but heard nothing in return. My heart dropped to my toes; what had I done wrong or not done right?&nbsp;As I tossed the situation around in my mind, a gobble broke the stillness again, this time directly in front of me not far away; he had snuck quietly through the trees and was in the bean stubble where I knew he would see my plastic decoy “jezebels.”&nbsp;Soon I saw him strutting his way toward me in the open field. I put the call aside and brought the shotgun&nbsp;around into position. He got so close I heard him spit each time&nbsp;he&nbsp;fanned out, and could hear the scratching noise as each wingtip drug across the ground. I could see him well, but too many tree limbs were in the way for a sure shot. Like a target in an&nbsp;arcade,&nbsp;he marched back and forth but would not come any closer. I had just read an article where the author&nbsp;warned about placing decoys too close and creating just such a situation. It became another standoff as he remained behind too many limbs for a safe&nbsp;killing shot. I decided it was time for a plan “B”; if he would just step&nbsp;a little closer&nbsp;to the edge of the trees during his little show, he would momentarily be in a small clear spot for a shot.&nbsp;Finally,&nbsp;he appeared to stray a little closer to the trees,&nbsp;so as his back was toward me as he turned, I swung the shotgun around and leaned out around the tree trunk in front of me. He saw or heard me move and immediately&nbsp;dropped his tail feathers to run, but the&nbsp;twelve-gauge&nbsp;nailed him to the ground before he could take more than a couple steps.&nbsp;If&nbsp;this story leaves&nbsp;some of you turkey hunting purists shaking your heads, I apologize. I’ve never been one to worry much about protocol. Maybe more of you have shot turkeys from tree stands than I know, but if not and the situation presents itself, give it a try. If you&nbsp;decide to&nbsp;try it, access your shooting lanes and place your decoys appropriately to draw the gobbler past you and to put him in a position for a clear shot if he hangs&nbsp;up a ways out. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Tree top turkey

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;

How about we go to a garden store? Or, what if the garden store could come to you?&nbsp;

Today we’ll meet an innovative young rural-preneur who has created a mobile system to bring vegetables, herbs, ornamentals and plant care information to the public.&nbsp;

Renata Goossen is the founder of Renata’s Garden in her hometown of Potwin. Her parents gardened, her dad raised tomatoes, and her mother’s family operates Henry Creek Farms, a fourth-generation family farm.&nbsp;

“I grew up in 4-H,” Goossen said. She tried the horticulture project and found that she loved it. “Our Butler County extension horticulture agent, Larry Crouse, was excellent at encouraging young people with judging and plant identification. Our extension agents influenced me greatly.”&nbsp;

“In junior high, I started a project I called Renata’s Garden,” she said. She raised special varieties of plants, created a catalog and marketed those plants to the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thankfully I have great parents who were willing to drive me to deliver those plants when we went to school or 4-H functions.”&nbsp;

Goossen attended Kansas State University where she earned her degree in horticulture.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The College of Agriculture is really great at helping you find where you fit,” Goossen said. “I had great professors who helped me.”&nbsp;

She earned several scholarships and business internships, including serving as a horticulture marketing specialist for a growers business in Ohio. “I was taken aback that more hort businesses weren’t using extension resources,” Goossen said. As a student, she conducted and published undergraduate research and traveled to Europe with a study abroad program.&nbsp;

In the Netherlands, she observed mobile street vendors. It reminded her of seeing a renovated school bus which had been used for summer feeding programs back in Butler County.&nbsp;

After graduation from K-State, Goossen considered her options. “I liked dealing with the consumer and I also liked the reward of successfully growing a crop,” she said.&nbsp;

She decided to combine the two and create a mobile horticultural retail business of her own, using the name Renata’s Garden again. She built a greenhouse and produces specialty plants such as Celebrity Tomato, Large-Leaf Italian Flat Leaf Parsley, Patio Baby Eggplant, Snackabelle Pepper, Marigold Strawberry Blonde flowers, Everleaf Emerald Tower Basil, and many more.&nbsp;

She purchased and renovated an old school bus, painted a floral design on the exterior, and refitted it with benches custom-designed to hold flats of her plants with space for pots, soil and other supplies underneath. The bus has “Renata’s Garden” and “Plant Bus” printed in big letters on the front and side.&nbsp;

Goossen drives the bus to various locations where customers can purchase the plants she has raised. “I wanted to put a Kansas twist on the European mobile cart idea,” she said.&nbsp;

“I set it up like a pop-up shop and notify people where I’ll be on my social media and website,” Goossen said. She makes a circuit of Wichita, Newton, El Dorado and surrounding communities where she stops for a day or a few hours for the public to step on board and purchase her plants.&nbsp;

Plant care and education are important to Goossen. She includes a QR code on each plant label which links to the plant care information for that specific plant. She also produces a weekly YouTube program, called&nbsp;Unearth Horticulture, that discusses plant care.&nbsp;

“I love seeing people’s eyes light up when they see the inside of the bus,” Goossen said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“People are excited to embrace this kind of business. When there’s a little kid trying edible flowers for the first time or an older person who gets on the bus and says, `I’ve never seen anything like this,’ those moments are amazing.”&nbsp;

It's a remarkable business to originate in a rural community such as Potwin, population 421 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654089439927.png" alt="Renata Goossen" />
 <figcaption>Renata Goossen</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;How about we go to a garden store? Or, what if the garden store could come to you?&nbsp;Today we’ll meet an innovative young rural-preneur who has created a mobile system to bring vegetables, herbs, ornamentals and plant care information to the public.&nbsp;Renata Goossen is the founder of Renata’s Garden in her hometown of Potwin. Her parents gardened, her dad raised tomatoes, and her mother’s family operates Henry Creek Farms, a fourth-generation family farm.&nbsp;“I grew up in 4-H,” Goossen said. She tried the horticulture project and found that she loved it. “Our Butler County extension horticulture agent, Larry Crouse, was excellent at encouraging young people with judging and plant identification. Our extension agents influenced me greatly.”&nbsp;“In junior high, I started a project I called Renata’s Garden,” she said. She raised special varieties of plants, created a catalog and marketed those plants to the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thankfully I have great parents who were willing to drive me to deliver those plants when we went to school or 4-H functions.”&nbsp;Goossen attended Kansas State University where she earned her degree in horticulture.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The College of Agriculture is really great at helping you find where you fit,” Goossen said. “I had great professors who helped me.”&nbsp;She earned several scholarships and business internships, including serving as a horticulture marketing specialist for a growers business in Ohio. “I was taken aback that more hort businesses weren’t using extension resources,” Goossen said. As a student, she conducted and published undergraduate research and traveled to Europe with a study abroad program.&nbsp;In the Netherlands, she observed mobile street vendors. It reminded her of seeing a renovated school bus which had been used for summer feeding programs back in Butler County.&nbsp;After graduation from K-State, Goossen considered her options. “I liked dealing with the consumer and I also liked the reward of successfully growing a crop,” she said.&nbsp;She decided to combine the two and create a mobile horticultural retail business of her own, using the name Renata’s Garden again. She built a greenhouse and produces specialty plants such as Celebrity Tomato, Large-Leaf Italian Flat Leaf Parsley, Patio Baby Eggplant, Snackabelle Pepper, Marigold Strawberry Blonde flowers, Everleaf Emerald Tower Basil, and many more.&nbsp;She purchased and renovated an old school bus, painted a floral design on the exterior, and refitted it with benches custom-designed to hold flats of her plants with space for pots, soil and other supplies underneath. The bus has “Renata’s Garden” and “Plant Bus” printed in big letters on the front and side.&nbsp;Goossen drives the bus to various locations where customers can purchase the plants she has raised. “I wanted to put a Kansas twist on the European mobile cart idea,” she said.&nbsp;“I set it up like a pop-up shop and notify people where I’ll be on my social media and website,” Goossen said. She makes a circuit of Wichita, Newton, El Dorado and surrounding communities where she stops for a day or a few hours for the public to step on board and purchase her plants.&nbsp;Plant care and education are important to Goossen. She includes a QR code on each plant label which links to the plant care information for that specific plant. She also produces a weekly YouTube program, called&nbsp;Unearth Horticulture, that discusses plant care.&nbsp;“I love seeing people’s eyes light up when they see the inside of the bus,” Goossen said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“People are excited to embrace this kind of business. When there’s a little kid trying edible flowers for the first time or an older person who gets on the bus and says, `I’ve never seen anything like this,’ those moments are amazing.”&nbsp;It's a remarkable business to originate in a rural community such as Potwin, population 421 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renatasgarden.com/">www.renatasgarden.com</a>.&nbsp;Would you like to go to the plant store?&nbsp;&nbsp;What if the plant store came to you?&nbsp;&nbsp;We commend Renata Goossen for making a difference with her creative approach to marketing and educating horticultural consumers. I’d say her business is on the move.&nbsp;

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