The Kansas Senate finished the tenth week of session with committee meetings and bills coming forward. The Senate held floor debate on March 16th &amp; 17th passing out bills with the possibility of these bills having hearings the next week in the House which will be the last week for committees to meet and pass out bills. The legislature is very fluid at this point and will continue to work on legislation as time and safety allows with the daily updates we receive from the leaders in both the Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch which includes Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommendations.

SB 267 - The Senate budget approved as Sub for SB 267 would appropriate $21.2 billion from all funding sources including $7.9 billion from the State General Fund for FY 2022. In addition, the budget includes 40,783.1 FTE positions at various state agencies. The State General Fund amount is an increase of $297.4 million above the amount recommended for FY 2021. This bill would leave an estimated $398.1 ending balance in the State General Fund at the end of FY 2022 which equates to 5.0% of SGF expenditures for the year (assuming current law and Sub for SB 267 only). Actuals for FY 2020 included State General Fund expenditures of $7.5 billion and an ending balance of $495.0 million. The Senate budget does not currently include funding for K-12 education, as that will be addressed at omnibus. Due to the unique circumstances and the potential for substantial federal funding - K-12 funding was removed from this stage of the budget process and will be addressed at omnibus when there will be a more complete picture of federal funding.

SB 37 would amend provisions governing agent licensing and renewal licensure requirements in the Uniform Agents Licensing Act and in the Public Adjusters Licensing Act and would also amend a statute governing the examination of applicants for agent licensure.

SB 208 would create the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act to require student athletes to compete in gender-specific sports based upon the student’s biological gender. The bill would require athletic sports in any school or postsecondary educational institution to expressly designate sports as men only, women only or coed.

HB 2078 would suspend the provisions of the speedy trial statute in the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure until May 1, 2023, in all criminal cases and would remove a provision in the statute. This is to allow the courts to “catch up” due to delays caused by COVID-19.

HB 2227 would allow the chief justice to suspend certain time limitations during a state of local disaster emergency, suspend verification requirements and authorize use of electronic audio-visual communication until June 30, 2022.

HB 2063 would revise the benefits for members of the Kansas Police and Firemen’s Retirement System (KP&amp;F) who are Tier II members (employees hired since July 1, 1989, who are disabled and ultimately die due to a “service-connected” condition). HB 2124 would allow schools statutorily exempted from State Board of Regents approval requirements to be exempted from the prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine.

SB 40 would create and amend law regarding the Kansas Emergency Management Act (KEMA), state of disaster emergencies, the Legislative Coordinating Council, and the COVID-19 health emergency. This bill would end all COVID-19 related statewide mandates, including the mask mandate, on March 31st. It prohibits the governor from closing businesses, civil organizations, and churches and protects 2nd Amendment rights. It also establishes due process rights for Kansans aggrieved by an order and reserves local control of schools.

HB 2066 would shorten the period of time in which regulatory bodies are required to issue occupational credentials to military servicemembers or military spouses seeking to establish residency in Kansas. The bill would apply to all licensing bodies except those relevant to the practice of law or the regulation of attorneys.

Full texts of the bills and supplemental notes as well as the Final Action vote on these measures can be found at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

Fold3 is an online resource from the State Library of Kansas for genealogists, historians, and veterans. Fold3 <a href="https://www.fold3.com/?group=1">https://kslib.info/fold3</a> features collections of original military records, including stories, photos, and personal documents of those who served in the military. Many of the records come from the U.S. National Archives and the National Archive of the U.K. Content begins with the Revolutionary War and continues to the present. These records will help you discover and share stories about these everyday heroes, forgotten soldiers, and the families that supported them.

The High School Equivalency Center is a center within LearningExpress Library, provided by the State Library of Kansas. Earning a high school equivalency credential can open the door to a more fulfilling job, and better income. If you are preparing for the GED® test, HiSET® or TASC exams, the High School Equivalency Center's no-charge practice tests, tutorials, and e-books will help you reach your goal. Go to <a href="https://www.learningexpresshub.com/ProductEngine/LELIndex.html#/learningexpresslibrary/libraryhome?AuthToken=895C9A93-31CF-45C5-814C-A0788C14776D">https://kslib.info/LEL</a> and click on the tile for High School Equivalency Center. Questions: kslc@ks.gov.

WATCH AND LISTEN TO THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A?view_as=subscriber">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a> – Here you can follow the legislature live as it happens, or access archives of past sessions and committee meetings. <a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/">Kansas Legislature Audio</a> – Here you can listen in on session or committees when they are in session, or access prior committee meetings, as well. Kansas Legislature website – www.kslegislature.org - has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills, and past sessions

Thank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>

Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is the 36th Kansas District senator.&nbsp;The 36th District includes&nbsp;Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580853658061.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SENATE HIGHLIGHTSThe Kansas Senate finished the tenth week of session with committee meetings and bills coming forward. The Senate held floor debate on March 16th &amp; 17th passing out bills with the possibility of these bills having hearings the next week in the House which will be the last week for committees to meet and pass out bills. The legislature is very fluid at this point and will continue to work on legislation as time and safety allows with the daily updates we receive from the leaders in both the Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch which includes Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommendations.SENATE FLOOR ACTIONSB 267 - The Senate budget approved as Sub for SB 267 would appropriate $21.2 billion from all funding sources including $7.9 billion from the State General Fund for FY 2022. In addition, the budget includes 40,783.1 FTE positions at various state agencies. The State General Fund amount is an increase of $297.4 million above the amount recommended for FY 2021. This bill would leave an estimated $398.1 ending balance in the State General Fund at the end of FY 2022 which equates to 5.0% of SGF expenditures for the year (assuming current law and Sub for SB 267 only). Actuals for FY 2020 included State General Fund expenditures of $7.5 billion and an ending balance of $495.0 million. The Senate budget does not currently include funding for K-12 education, as that will be addressed at omnibus. Due to the unique circumstances and the potential for substantial federal funding - K-12 funding was removed from this stage of the budget process and will be addressed at omnibus when there will be a more complete picture of federal funding.SB 37 would amend provisions governing agent licensing and renewal licensure requirements in the Uniform Agents Licensing Act and in the Public Adjusters Licensing Act and would also amend a statute governing the examination of applicants for agent licensure.SB 208 would create the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act to require student athletes to compete in gender-specific sports based upon the student’s biological gender. The bill would require athletic sports in any school or postsecondary educational institution to expressly designate sports as men only, women only or coed.HB 2078 would suspend the provisions of the speedy trial statute in the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure until May 1, 2023, in all criminal cases and would remove a provision in the statute. This is to allow the courts to “catch up” due to delays caused by COVID-19.HB 2227 would allow the chief justice to suspend certain time limitations during a state of local disaster emergency, suspend verification requirements and authorize use of electronic audio-visual communication until June 30, 2022.HB 2063 would revise the benefits for members of the Kansas Police and Firemen’s Retirement System (KP&amp;F) who are Tier II members (employees hired since July 1, 1989, who are disabled and ultimately die due to a “service-connected” condition). HB 2124 would allow schools statutorily exempted from State Board of Regents approval requirements to be exempted from the prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine.SB 40 would create and amend law regarding the Kansas Emergency Management Act (KEMA), state of disaster emergencies, the Legislative Coordinating Council, and the COVID-19 health emergency. This bill would end all COVID-19 related statewide mandates, including the mask mandate, on March 31st. It prohibits the governor from closing businesses, civil organizations, and churches and protects 2nd Amendment rights. It also establishes due process rights for Kansans aggrieved by an order and reserves local control of schools.HB 2066 would shorten the period of time in which regulatory bodies are required to issue occupational credentials to military servicemembers or military spouses seeking to establish residency in Kansas. The bill would apply to all licensing bodies except those relevant to the practice of law or the regulation of attorneys.Full texts of the bills and supplemental notes as well as the Final Action vote on these measures can be found at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.FROM THE STATE LIBRARYFold3 is an online resource from the State Library of Kansas for genealogists, historians, and veterans. Fold3 <a href="https://www.fold3.com/?group=1">https://kslib.info/fold3</a> features collections of original military records, including stories, photos, and personal documents of those who served in the military. Many of the records come from the U.S. National Archives and the National Archive of the U.K. Content begins with the Revolutionary War and continues to the present. These records will help you discover and share stories about these everyday heroes, forgotten soldiers, and the families that supported them.Online GED Practice TestsThe High School Equivalency Center is a center within LearningExpress Library, provided by the State Library of Kansas. Earning a high school equivalency credential can open the door to a more fulfilling job, and better income. If you are preparing for the GED® test, HiSET® or TASC exams, the High School Equivalency Center's no-charge practice tests, tutorials, and e-books will help you reach your goal. Go to <a href="https://www.learningexpresshub.com/ProductEngine/LELIndex.html#/learningexpresslibrary/libraryhome?AuthToken=895C9A93-31CF-45C5-814C-A0788C14776D">https://kslib.info/LEL</a> and click on the tile for High School Equivalency Center. Questions: kslc@ks.gov.WATCH AND LISTEN TO THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A?view_as=subscriber">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a> – Here you can follow the legislature live as it happens, or access archives of past sessions and committee meetings. <a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/">Kansas Legislature Audio</a> – Here you can listen in on session or committees when they are in session, or access prior committee meetings, as well. Kansas Legislature website – www.kslegislature.org - has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills, and past sessionsTHANK YOU FOR ENGAGINGThank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is the 36th Kansas District senator.&nbsp;The 36th District includes&nbsp;Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties.

BOWERS: Senate Scene Weeks 9 & 10

Troy L. Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_109.pdf">109th Kansas House District</a>&nbsp;state representative and chairman of the Appropriations Committee.&nbsp;

The 109th District includes&nbsp;Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties, and portions of Barton, Jewell, Lincoln and Rush counties.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616425976259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616426033321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Troy L. Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_109.pdf">109th Kansas House District</a>&nbsp;state representative and chairman of the Appropriations Committee.&nbsp;The 109th District includes&nbsp;Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties, and portions of Barton, Jewell, Lincoln and Rush counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, March 19

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

All-American. That designation is for the highest level of collegiate sports performance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today we’ll learn about a rural Kansas woman who founded a business that is helping create All-Americans in the sport of equestrian riding.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ann White is the founder and owner of Vermillion Valley Equine Center near Belvue. Ann grew up in Manhattan and loved horses as a girl. “My parents were not into horses, but they allowed me to have riding lessons,” Ann said. Horses became her passion. She started traveling and training horses and riders, particularly in the English style of riding.&nbsp;

Ann went to Kansas State University and met Mike White. They married, and she moved onto his family farm, named Vermillion Valley Farms. “I had been traveling around to train horses, but when I started having children, I did the training here (at the farm),” she said. “I didn’t really think people would come clear out here but they did, and now I think our rural setting is one of the biggest draws.”&nbsp;

In order to have a space to train, Ann mowed a patch out of the wheatfield. “The next year, I mowed a little bigger patch,” she said. “We just kept adding on.”&nbsp;

That was the beginning of Vermillion Valley Equine Center. Today,&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center is a full-service horse boarding facility specializing in the English riding disciplines of hunters, jumpers, equitation and eventing. Horse training and riding lessons are offered for all ages and skill levels. “We cover the whole gamut, from rank amateurs to those competing at the national level,” Ann said.&nbsp;

The facility has capacity for 60 horses, including 23 “school horses” used for the riding academy. The facility includes large arenas with sand footing on a limestone base, a round pen and a 10-acre, cross-country schooling field. The newest arena is 150 feet x 300 feet in size and features a water jump, hill and bank complex. Ann has a mobile trailer for sales of tack. She opened a brick-and-mortar tack shop in Wamego six years ago. Altogether,&nbsp;the facility&nbsp;includes all the elements one would need for equestrian training.&nbsp;

Such training has produced excellent results, beginning close to home. “Horses put my daughters through college,” Ann said. All three daughters – Alice, Jessica and Amy – worked and rode on the farm. Two earned college scholarships for joining the equestrian team at Oklahoma State University. The third went for a master’s degree at the University of Edinburgh and lives in Europe. The other two daughters have come back to the farm as professional trainers.&nbsp;

“As a farm wife, it is very special that our daughters would come home and work with us,” Ann said. Now there are six professional trainers working at&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center. Ann and her daughters and clients have literally traveled coast to coast, and even overseas, for equine events.&nbsp;

Among her clients are those seeking to compete nationally. “I’m proud of the professionals who got their start here,” Ann said. She has trained riders who achieved All-American status on equestrian teams at Texas A&amp;M and Baylor Universities, and became team captains at K-State, Texas Christian University, Southern Methodist University, Oklahoma State and others. “It was a terrible shame that K-State discontinued its equestrian team,” Ann said. Her facility is now home to the&nbsp;K-State Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Hunt Seat Team and the Flint Hills Pony Club for younger kids.&nbsp;

“It’s great to see the national awards, but it’s also as important to see the kids who will never enter a horse show grow and learn in their self-confidence,” Ann said. “The awards and ribbons are fine, but it’s wonderful to see the people who return here with their kids and grandkids.”&nbsp;

How great to find this facility on a family farm outside of the rural community of Belvue, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.vermillionvalleyequine.com/">www.vermillionvalleyequine.com</a>.&nbsp;

All-American. That national designation has been achieved by equestrian riders trained here at&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center. We commend Ann White and family for making a difference by sharing their equestrian skills with others. It’s a lifestyle that is All-American.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615987056823.png" alt="Ann White and Alice White" />
 <figcaption>Ann White and Alice White</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentAll-American. That designation is for the highest level of collegiate sports performance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today we’ll learn about a rural Kansas woman who founded a business that is helping create All-Americans in the sport of equestrian riding.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ann White is the founder and owner of Vermillion Valley Equine Center near Belvue. Ann grew up in Manhattan and loved horses as a girl. “My parents were not into horses, but they allowed me to have riding lessons,” Ann said. Horses became her passion. She started traveling and training horses and riders, particularly in the English style of riding.&nbsp;Ann went to Kansas State University and met Mike White. They married, and she moved onto his family farm, named Vermillion Valley Farms. “I had been traveling around to train horses, but when I started having children, I did the training here (at the farm),” she said. “I didn’t really think people would come clear out here but they did, and now I think our rural setting is one of the biggest draws.”&nbsp;In order to have a space to train, Ann mowed a patch out of the wheatfield. “The next year, I mowed a little bigger patch,” she said. “We just kept adding on.”&nbsp;That was the beginning of Vermillion Valley Equine Center. Today,&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center is a full-service horse boarding facility specializing in the English riding disciplines of hunters, jumpers, equitation and eventing. Horse training and riding lessons are offered for all ages and skill levels. “We cover the whole gamut, from rank amateurs to those competing at the national level,” Ann said.&nbsp;The facility has capacity for 60 horses, including 23 “school horses” used for the riding academy. The facility includes large arenas with sand footing on a limestone base, a round pen and a 10-acre, cross-country schooling field. The newest arena is 150 feet x 300 feet in size and features a water jump, hill and bank complex. Ann has a mobile trailer for sales of tack. She opened a brick-and-mortar tack shop in Wamego six years ago. Altogether,&nbsp;the facility&nbsp;includes all the elements one would need for equestrian training.&nbsp;Such training has produced excellent results, beginning close to home. “Horses put my daughters through college,” Ann said. All three daughters – Alice, Jessica and Amy – worked and rode on the farm. Two earned college scholarships for joining the equestrian team at Oklahoma State University. The third went for a master’s degree at the University of Edinburgh and lives in Europe. The other two daughters have come back to the farm as professional trainers.&nbsp;“As a farm wife, it is very special that our daughters would come home and work with us,” Ann said. Now there are six professional trainers working at&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center. Ann and her daughters and clients have literally traveled coast to coast, and even overseas, for equine events.&nbsp;Among her clients are those seeking to compete nationally. “I’m proud of the professionals who got their start here,” Ann said. She has trained riders who achieved All-American status on equestrian teams at Texas A&amp;M and Baylor Universities, and became team captains at K-State, Texas Christian University, Southern Methodist University, Oklahoma State and others. “It was a terrible shame that K-State discontinued its equestrian team,” Ann said. Her facility is now home to the&nbsp;K-State Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Hunt Seat Team and the Flint Hills Pony Club for younger kids.&nbsp;“It’s great to see the national awards, but it’s also as important to see the kids who will never enter a horse show grow and learn in their self-confidence,” Ann said. “The awards and ribbons are fine, but it’s wonderful to see the people who return here with their kids and grandkids.”&nbsp;How great to find this facility on a family farm outside of the rural community of Belvue, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.vermillionvalleyequine.com/">www.vermillionvalleyequine.com</a>.&nbsp;All-American. That national designation has been achieved by equestrian riders trained here at&nbsp;Vermillion Valley Equine Center. We commend Ann White and family for making a difference by sharing their equestrian skills with others. It’s a lifestyle that is All-American.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Ann White, Vermillion Valley Equine Center 

“Once there lived an Upside-Down, who was the talk of all the town.&nbsp;If he was told to turn to right, he turned left out of spite.” — Alexander Kushner

The 2021 Kansas Legislature is Upside-Down-land, filled with lawmakers who focus their attention on non-problems, while purposefully ignoring the state’s real issues.

Reflecting the nutty fixation of Senator Roger Marshall, statehouse Republicans have focused immense attention on the burning question of whether Kansas transgender female athletes, perhaps five in total, should be able to compete in women’s sports.&nbsp; As with many other states’ partisans, Kansas Republicans studiously avoid important issues &nbsp;by obsessing on the bright shiny object of transgendered students, who are among the state’s most vulnerable citizens.

In passing an anti-trans athletes measure through an “emergency” (sic) process, Kansas risks the fate of states experiencing boycotts after passing such bills, including North Carolina’s misguided “bathroom bill” that lost that state more than $400 million in events revenues.

Contrast this with the legislators’ intransigent unwillingness to address Medicaid expansion, which would directly address the needs of more than 100,000 Kansans.&nbsp; This gross neglect over the past decade, which has cost Kansas more over $3 billion in funding, is even more shameful and stupid in 2021, given provisions of the American Recovery Plan (ARP).&nbsp;

Aside from many other positive health care provisions, the ARP offers new, enhanced incentives for Kansas to expand Medicaid, most notably an extra $450 million in benefits over the next two years, compared to increased expenditures of $210 million.&nbsp; The state would come out a big fiscal winner in tough times and up to 150,000 thousand Kansans would receive health coverage.

For Republican legislators, these generous, humane Medicaid provisions might as well not exist.&nbsp; In their Upside-Down world, even the possibility of some future increased expenses is enough to ignore every positive.&nbsp; Lawmakers simply avert their eyes, choosing to attack the mythology of trans athletes, while also seeking to exact a pound of flesh from Kansas universities.

Indeed, this latter subject – forcing universities to refund up to $150 million in tuition for those students whose classes moved from in-person to remote teaching – represents an Upside-Down two-fer for GOP legislators.&nbsp; That is, they can create a non-issue (refunds) that would further damage a higher education system already reeling from huge Covid-related fiscal losses, including $75 million for the University of Kansas alone.

Saddling Kansas universities with tens of millions in extra expenses would be crippling, yet for many lawmakers it is a point of pride, in that they would rather score political points than &nbsp;&nbsp;bolster 150 years of state investment in higher education.

Why this Upside-Down divergence between symbolism and substance for many Republican legislators, both in DC and Topeka?&nbsp; Largely because they have no serious policy agenda, as witnessed by their unwillingness to write a national party platform in 2020.&nbsp; Rather, they just said, “Our program is whatever Donald Trump wants.”

In Topeka, this translates to “Whatever Governor Laura Kelly supports, we oppose, even though we have little to offer in its place.”&nbsp; For deep-red Kansas, that may be enough, as trans students, the uninsured working poor, and state universities become targets for Republican lawmakers who provide no serious policies. At the same time, real issues of health care, a Covid-weakened economy, higher education, and yes, actual discrimination against trans students, go unaddressed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574348610067.jpeg" alt="Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>“Once there lived an Upside-Down, who was the talk of all the town.&nbsp;If he was told to turn to right, he turned left out of spite.” — Alexander KushnerThe 2021 Kansas Legislature is Upside-Down-land, filled with lawmakers who focus their attention on non-problems, while purposefully ignoring the state’s real issues.Reflecting the nutty fixation of Senator Roger Marshall, statehouse Republicans have focused immense attention on the burning question of whether Kansas transgender female athletes, perhaps five in total, should be able to compete in women’s sports.&nbsp; As with many other states’ partisans, Kansas Republicans studiously avoid important issues &nbsp;by obsessing on the bright shiny object of transgendered students, who are among the state’s most vulnerable citizens.In passing an anti-trans athletes measure through an “emergency” (sic) process, Kansas risks the fate of states experiencing boycotts after passing such bills, including North Carolina’s misguided “bathroom bill” that lost that state more than $400 million in events revenues.Contrast this with the legislators’ intransigent unwillingness to address Medicaid expansion, which would directly address the needs of more than 100,000 Kansans.&nbsp; This gross neglect over the past decade, which has cost Kansas more over $3 billion in funding, is even more shameful and stupid in 2021, given provisions of the American Recovery Plan (ARP).&nbsp;Aside from many other positive health care provisions, the ARP offers new, enhanced incentives for Kansas to expand Medicaid, most notably an extra $450 million in benefits over the next two years, compared to increased expenditures of $210 million.&nbsp; The state would come out a big fiscal winner in tough times and up to 150,000 thousand Kansans would receive health coverage.For Republican legislators, these generous, humane Medicaid provisions might as well not exist.&nbsp; In their Upside-Down world, even the possibility of some future increased expenses is enough to ignore every positive.&nbsp; Lawmakers simply avert their eyes, choosing to attack the mythology of trans athletes, while also seeking to exact a pound of flesh from Kansas universities.Indeed, this latter subject – forcing universities to refund up to $150 million in tuition for those students whose classes moved from in-person to remote teaching – represents an Upside-Down two-fer for GOP legislators.&nbsp; That is, they can create a non-issue (refunds) that would further damage a higher education system already reeling from huge Covid-related fiscal losses, including $75 million for the University of Kansas alone.Saddling Kansas universities with tens of millions in extra expenses would be crippling, yet for many lawmakers it is a point of pride, in that they would rather score political points than &nbsp;&nbsp;bolster 150 years of state investment in higher education.Why this Upside-Down divergence between symbolism and substance for many Republican legislators, both in DC and Topeka?&nbsp; Largely because they have no serious policy agenda, as witnessed by their unwillingness to write a national party platform in 2020.&nbsp; Rather, they just said, “Our program is whatever Donald Trump wants.”In Topeka, this translates to “Whatever Governor Laura Kelly supports, we oppose, even though we have little to offer in its place.”&nbsp; For deep-red Kansas, that may be enough, as trans students, the uninsured working poor, and state universities become targets for Republican lawmakers who provide no serious policies. At the same time, real issues of health care, a Covid-weakened economy, higher education, and yes, actual discrimination against trans students, go unaddressed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upside-Down, indeed.Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The Upside-Down Kan. Legislature

The unique climate characteristics of the Southern Great Plains allow producers to use wheat as a forage and grain crop. Date of grazing termination is an important factor in determining wheat’s recovery potential and ability to produce grain. First hollow stem (FHS) is the optimal time to remove cattle from wheat pastures to protect yield potential.&nbsp;

Before the wheat leaf sheaths become erect after spring green-up, the developing growing point, which is below the soil surface, will soon begin to form a tiny head. Although the head is quite small at this point, it has already established some important yield components. At this stage, the maximum potential number of spikelets is determined. Sufficient nitrogen (N) should already be available to maximize the potential number of seeds per head.&nbsp;

Once the embryo head has developed, the first internode will begin to elongate, pushing the head up through the leaf sheaths. This first internode will be hollow. This will be visible before you can actually feel the first node.&nbsp;

FHS is the point at which a 1.5 cm length of hollow stem can first be identified below the developing head. This length is roughly equivalent to the diameter of a dime. FHS occurs when the developing head is still below the soil surface. This means that producers have to dig plants out of the ground to measure it.&nbsp;

To look for FHS, start by digging up some plants from fields or areas that have not been grazed, such as field corners or just outside the fence. Date of FHS is variety- and field-specific, so it is important to sample each field. Select the largest tillers to examine, and slice the stem open from the crown area up. Look for the developing head, which will be very small. Next, see if you can find any hollow stem between the developing head and the crown area. If there is any separation, the hollow stem is elongating. If that separation is 1.5 cm, the wheat plant is at FHS. FHS occurs between a few days to a week or more prior to jointing, depending on temperatures.&nbsp;

If the wheat has reached FHS, cattle should be removed to prevent yield loss. Yield losses from grazing after FHS can range from 1 to 5% per day, depending on grazing intensity and the weather following cattle removal. If cattle removal is followed by cool, moist weather, yield losses will often average about 1% per day grazed after FHS; if weather is hot, dry, and harsh, yield losses of 5% per day or more can be expected. It is easy for producers to be late by a few days in removing livestock as they wait for obvious nodes and hollow stems to appear, and even the first few days can be significant.&nbsp;

Two things can occur when wheat is grazed too long: 1) fewer heads per acre because the primary tiller has been removed, and 2) smaller and lighter heads than expected because leaf area has been removed. As cattle continue grazing, the wheat plant is stressed and begins to lose some of the tillers that would produce grain. A little later, if there are not enough photosynthates, the plant begins aborting the lower spikelets in the head or some of the florets on each head. Finally, if there is not enough photosynthate during grain filling, the seed size will be reduced and if the stress is severe enough, some seed will abort.&nbsp;

For more information on managing wheat in dual-purpose systems, check the K-State Research and Extension publication MF3375, “Dual-purpose wheat: Management for forage and grain production”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The unique climate characteristics of the Southern Great Plains allow producers to use wheat as a forage and grain crop. Date of grazing termination is an important factor in determining wheat’s recovery potential and ability to produce grain. First hollow stem (FHS) is the optimal time to remove cattle from wheat pastures to protect yield potential.&nbsp;Before the wheat leaf sheaths become erect after spring green-up, the developing growing point, which is below the soil surface, will soon begin to form a tiny head. Although the head is quite small at this point, it has already established some important yield components. At this stage, the maximum potential number of spikelets is determined. Sufficient nitrogen (N) should already be available to maximize the potential number of seeds per head.&nbsp;Once the embryo head has developed, the first internode will begin to elongate, pushing the head up through the leaf sheaths. This first internode will be hollow. This will be visible before you can actually feel the first node.&nbsp;FHS is the point at which a 1.5 cm length of hollow stem can first be identified below the developing head. This length is roughly equivalent to the diameter of a dime. FHS occurs when the developing head is still below the soil surface. This means that producers have to dig plants out of the ground to measure it.&nbsp;To look for FHS, start by digging up some plants from fields or areas that have not been grazed, such as field corners or just outside the fence. Date of FHS is variety- and field-specific, so it is important to sample each field. Select the largest tillers to examine, and slice the stem open from the crown area up. Look for the developing head, which will be very small. Next, see if you can find any hollow stem between the developing head and the crown area. If there is any separation, the hollow stem is elongating. If that separation is 1.5 cm, the wheat plant is at FHS. FHS occurs between a few days to a week or more prior to jointing, depending on temperatures.&nbsp;If the wheat has reached FHS, cattle should be removed to prevent yield loss. Yield losses from grazing after FHS can range from 1 to 5% per day, depending on grazing intensity and the weather following cattle removal. If cattle removal is followed by cool, moist weather, yield losses will often average about 1% per day grazed after FHS; if weather is hot, dry, and harsh, yield losses of 5% per day or more can be expected. It is easy for producers to be late by a few days in removing livestock as they wait for obvious nodes and hollow stems to appear, and even the first few days can be significant.&nbsp;Two things can occur when wheat is grazed too long: 1) fewer heads per acre because the primary tiller has been removed, and 2) smaller and lighter heads than expected because leaf area has been removed. As cattle continue grazing, the wheat plant is stressed and begins to lose some of the tillers that would produce grain. A little later, if there are not enough photosynthates, the plant begins aborting the lower spikelets in the head or some of the florets on each head. Finally, if there is not enough photosynthate during grain filling, the seed size will be reduced and if the stress is severe enough, some seed will abort.&nbsp;For more information on managing wheat in dual-purpose systems, check the K-State Research and Extension publication MF3375, “Dual-purpose wheat: Management for forage and grain production”&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Wheat as forage and grain

Those of you who know me are not surprised that I love this time of year. Warmer days mean longer and more frequent bike rides. Besides the physical activity that comes with the start of Spring, March is also designated as National Nutrition Month. A couple of weeks ago I put the finishing touches on the revision of a fact sheet and leaders guide I wrote ten years ago titled, “More Plants on the Plate.” The fact sheet includes updated information about the benefits of filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables. A generous portion of a grain dish, preferably whole grain, and a small portion of a lean protein round out the foods to fill your nine-inch plate. Dairy or calcium rich foods should also be part of a healthy diet.

The benefits of making dietary changes are amazing. Nutrient dense vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are naturally low in calories and fat. They also are naturally high in fiber which can help keep your digestive system healthy. Consuming a diet featuring more plants is good for your health – today and tomorrow.&nbsp;

We have heard so much lately about how important a strong immune system is. Complex carbohydrates are easy to digest, and the antioxidants in plants actually help strengthen your body’s immune system. Many people with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and various autoimmune diseases have been able to alleviate their symptoms by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and consuming fewer solid and added fats, added sugars and refined grains.

Let’s talk a bit about the food that is being consumed in America. Calorie balance, which is one key to a healthy weight, can be achieved when calories consumed from food and drinks equal the calories used for physical activity and metabolic processes. It may sound simplistic but calorie imbalance – or consuming more calories than the body uses – is one reason for the growing national and global epidemic of obesity.&nbsp;

Consider the quality of calories and nutrients in the food consumers are choosing. Research reported in the American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide found that regardless of body weight, many people of all age groups consume too much solid fat, cholesterol, sodium, added sugar and refined grains. Too much of these may increase the risks of certain chronic diseases. A small serving of these energy-dense foods contains a large number of calories. Choosing unhealthy foods instead of nutrient-dense choices, foods that contain many nutrients in relationship to the number of calories, makes it harder to meet nutrient recommendations and control calories. Many choices high in sodium, added fat, and added sugar come from highly processed food. Or they may be choices made from a fast food menu. Preparing more food at home, where you control the ingredients, provides the best chance for healthy alternatives.&nbsp;

Just as important as the plate you are eating from is the beverage you choose to drink. Sugary soft drinks or specialty coffee drinks fill you up with empty calories and provide little nutrition. A glass of water is the healthier choice. Other points to consider as you work toward eating a healthier diet include:

Many people simply live to eat. For improved health, now is the time to eat to live. It may not easy to change eating habits overnight.&nbsp; At first you may find it challenging to avoid processed foods. But gradually, as more vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes are added to your daily menu, you will discover or rediscover what nutrient dense foods taste like. Let’s look for ways to put “more plants on the plate.”

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a> or (620)793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Those of you who know me are not surprised that I love this time of year. Warmer days mean longer and more frequent bike rides. Besides the physical activity that comes with the start of Spring, March is also designated as National Nutrition Month. A couple of weeks ago I put the finishing touches on the revision of a fact sheet and leaders guide I wrote ten years ago titled, “More Plants on the Plate.” The fact sheet includes updated information about the benefits of filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables. A generous portion of a grain dish, preferably whole grain, and a small portion of a lean protein round out the foods to fill your nine-inch plate. Dairy or calcium rich foods should also be part of a healthy diet.The benefits of making dietary changes are amazing. Nutrient dense vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are naturally low in calories and fat. They also are naturally high in fiber which can help keep your digestive system healthy. Consuming a diet featuring more plants is good for your health – today and tomorrow.&nbsp;We have heard so much lately about how important a strong immune system is. Complex carbohydrates are easy to digest, and the antioxidants in plants actually help strengthen your body’s immune system. Many people with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and various autoimmune diseases have been able to alleviate their symptoms by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and consuming fewer solid and added fats, added sugars and refined grains.Let’s talk a bit about the food that is being consumed in America. Calorie balance, which is one key to a healthy weight, can be achieved when calories consumed from food and drinks equal the calories used for physical activity and metabolic processes. It may sound simplistic but calorie imbalance – or consuming more calories than the body uses – is one reason for the growing national and global epidemic of obesity.&nbsp;Consider the quality of calories and nutrients in the food consumers are choosing. Research reported in the American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide found that regardless of body weight, many people of all age groups consume too much solid fat, cholesterol, sodium, added sugar and refined grains. Too much of these may increase the risks of certain chronic diseases. A small serving of these energy-dense foods contains a large number of calories. Choosing unhealthy foods instead of nutrient-dense choices, foods that contain many nutrients in relationship to the number of calories, makes it harder to meet nutrient recommendations and control calories. Many choices high in sodium, added fat, and added sugar come from highly processed food. Or they may be choices made from a fast food menu. Preparing more food at home, where you control the ingredients, provides the best chance for healthy alternatives.&nbsp;Just as important as the plate you are eating from is the beverage you choose to drink. Sugary soft drinks or specialty coffee drinks fill you up with empty calories and provide little nutrition. A glass of water is the healthier choice. Other points to consider as you work toward eating a healthier diet include:<ol>
 <li>Start your day with breakfast.</li><li>Include a fruit or vegetable at every meal or snack.</li><li>Reduce portion sizes.</li><li>Eat slowly and eat only until you are no longer hungry.&nbsp;</li><li>Choose to eat more nutrient dense foods. (Choose an apple instead of that piece of apple pie)</li><li>Eat whole foods instead of highly processed foods.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Many people simply live to eat. For improved health, now is the time to eat to live. It may not easy to change eating habits overnight.&nbsp; At first you may find it challenging to avoid processed foods. But gradually, as more vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes are added to your daily menu, you will discover or rediscover what nutrient dense foods taste like. Let’s look for ways to put “more plants on the plate.”Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a> or (620)793-1910.&nbsp;

KRUG: Consider putting more plants on your plate

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

I am going on a rant, and yes this is a warning. This past weekend was the fateful day that we spring our clocks ahead one hour for Daylight Saving Time. Let me be clear and not mince any words here, I really dislike the time change and, I have yet to find anyone who really likes it. Over and over, I hear it is those of us in agricultural who benefit from the time change. I find that to be a categorical myth and untruth.

To say that we benefit from moving the clock up one hour is ludicrous.

This time change is for the birds, and I am coming out against it. Only someone not connected to agriculture could think moving the clock forward an hour and making sunset an hour later that it would increase our time in the field. We all know the reality is that we work until the job is done whether it is daylight or dark. Farmers and ranchers do not work by the clock.

What it does mean is we will be heading out into the dark in the morning to do the chores we did in the daylight just a day earlier. I often wonder how confused our animals must be when we show up an hour earlier suddenly for no apparent reason. I guess they probably like it better in the fall when breakfast arrives an hour later. I hate to tell the person or probably the committee that dreamed Daylight Saving Time up, but there are only so many hours of daylight and it does not matter what a clock says.

I will admit that I dislike the springtime change because it means I lose an hour of sleep, but I find the fall time change nearly as disruptive to my internal clock. I suspect most of us are up way before daylight either before or after the change, and the clock means little to us. In fact, I’d argue moving the clock forward and hour makes life more difficult. It suddenly means that instead of it getting dark at 6 p.m. it is now dark at 7 p.m., and it is awfully hard to shut down and go to a meeting when it is still light outside.

I would also propose we missed the perfect opportunity to get rid of the time change this past year. With the pandemic and all its disruptions to our lives, what would one more matter. We could have done away with the time changes and no one would have noticed because none of us had anywhere to go. At least something positive would have come out of the pandemic. So never mind me, I will be the one out in the dark stumbling my way through chores.

"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.

<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 rancher I am going on a rant, and yes this is a warning. This past weekend was the fateful day that we spring our clocks ahead one hour for Daylight Saving Time. Let me be clear and not mince any words here, I really dislike the time change and, I have yet to find anyone who really likes it. Over and over, I hear it is those of us in agricultural who benefit from the time change. I find that to be a categorical myth and untruth.To say that we benefit from moving the clock up one hour is ludicrous.This time change is for the birds, and I am coming out against it. Only someone not connected to agriculture could think moving the clock forward an hour and making sunset an hour later that it would increase our time in the field. We all know the reality is that we work until the job is done whether it is daylight or dark. Farmers and ranchers do not work by the clock.What it does mean is we will be heading out into the dark in the morning to do the chores we did in the daylight just a day earlier. I often wonder how confused our animals must be when we show up an hour earlier suddenly for no apparent reason. I guess they probably like it better in the fall when breakfast arrives an hour later. I hate to tell the person or probably the committee that dreamed Daylight Saving Time up, but there are only so many hours of daylight and it does not matter what a clock says.I will admit that I dislike the springtime change because it means I lose an hour of sleep, but I find the fall time change nearly as disruptive to my internal clock. I suspect most of us are up way before daylight either before or after the change, and the clock means little to us. In fact, I’d argue moving the clock forward and hour makes life more difficult. It suddenly means that instead of it getting dark at 6 p.m. it is now dark at 7 p.m., and it is awfully hard to shut down and go to a meeting when it is still light outside.I would also propose we missed the perfect opportunity to get rid of the time change this past year. With the pandemic and all its disruptions to our lives, what would one more matter. We could have done away with the time changes and no one would have noticed because none of us had anywhere to go. At least something positive would have come out of the pandemic. So never mind me, I will be the one out in the dark stumbling my way through chores."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.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Stuck on time

Wild garlic (Allium vineale) and wild onion (Allium canadense) are two closely related plants that can become weed problems in home lawns and landscapes. Though wild garlic and wild onion look much alike, each has an odor that is characterized by its name – wild garlic smells like garlic and wild onion smells like onion. These plants are perennials that can also reproduce by seeds and aerial bulbils. Bulbils form at the top of the stem and are oval and smooth. 

Wild garlic also reproduces by underground bulb offsets, but wild onion does not. Both species produce a clump of plants that is unsightly in a lawn. Control recommendations are the same though we now have a couple of new additions to our arsenal.​Traditionally we have used 2,4-D or 2,4-D + MCPP + Dicamba (i.e., Trimec, Weed-Out, Weed-B-Gon). These products should be sprayed during March on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Newer products are Weed Free Zone and Speed Zone. Both are combination products that contain a formulation of Trimec plus carfentrazone. These will give a quicker response at cooler temperatures than 50 degrees. A spreader-sticker added to the spray should help any of these products be more effective. At times, the spreader-sticker is already mixed into the weed killer; no additional amount is needed. These herbicides are also effective on dandelions. Unfortunately, we have not had a good chemical control for Star-of-Bethlehem. The best products we had were Coolpower (31.3% control) and Turflon Ester (23.8% control). Coolpower is a commercial only product, but Turflon Ester is available to both commercial and homeowner users. But research out of Virginia Tech has improved our outlook. Scientists there did a study in which they gained 96% control of Star-of-Bethlehem one month after treatment by using Quicksilver, a formulation of carfentrazone at the rate of 4 fl. oz/A. Quicksilver is a commercial only product, and therefore is not readily available to homeowners. However, both Speed Zone and Weed Free Zone contain carfentrazone and would certainly be worth a try if you have this troublesome plant. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wild garlic (Allium vineale) and wild onion (Allium canadense) are two closely related plants that can become weed problems in home lawns and landscapes. Though wild garlic and wild onion look much alike, each has an odor that is characterized by its name – wild garlic smells like garlic and wild onion smells like onion. These plants are perennials that can also reproduce by seeds and aerial bulbils. Bulbils form at the top of the stem and are oval and smooth. Wild garlic also reproduces by underground bulb offsets, but wild onion does not. Both species produce a clump of plants that is unsightly in a lawn. Control recommendations are the same though we now have a couple of new additions to our arsenal.​Traditionally we have used 2,4-D or 2,4-D + MCPP + Dicamba (i.e., Trimec, Weed-Out, Weed-B-Gon). These products should be sprayed during March on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Newer products are Weed Free Zone and Speed Zone. Both are combination products that contain a formulation of Trimec plus carfentrazone. These will give a quicker response at cooler temperatures than 50 degrees. A spreader-sticker added to the spray should help any of these products be more effective. At times, the spreader-sticker is already mixed into the weed killer; no additional amount is needed. These herbicides are also effective on dandelions. Unfortunately, we have not had a good chemical control for Star-of-Bethlehem. The best products we had were Coolpower (31.3% control) and Turflon Ester (23.8% control). Coolpower is a commercial only product, but Turflon Ester is available to both commercial and homeowner users. But research out of Virginia Tech has improved our outlook. Scientists there did a study in which they gained 96% control of Star-of-Bethlehem one month after treatment by using Quicksilver, a formulation of carfentrazone at the rate of 4 fl. oz/A. Quicksilver is a commercial only product, and therefore is not readily available to homeowners. However, both Speed Zone and Weed Free Zone contain carfentrazone and would certainly be worth a try if you have this troublesome plant. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Wild onion, wild garlic, and Star-of-Bethlehem

One of the first priorities of the Senate was to address property tax reform. The bill requires local government to practice “Truth in Taxation” when they desire to use revenues from higher property valuations to increase taxes. This legislation is similar to legislation that has been used in several states, including Utah for over 20 years. The highlights of the bill: Transparency-The bill would establish new notifications and public hearing requirements for taxing subdivisions seeking to increase property taxes above those provided for by their “revenue-neutral rate.” A taxing subdivision would be prohibited from levying taxes exceeding its revenue-neutral rate without first approving a resolution or ordinance in accordance with the procedure provided by the bill. It requires county clerks to notify the public about the intent to exceed the “revenue neutral rate” via publishing such notification on their website as well as via a mailing to each taxpayer impacted. The public hearing would have to he held by September 10th. The governing body of the taxing district would have to vote to exceed the revenue neutral rate by a majority vote. Those entities not complying would be required to refund the property taxes. Regular Maintenance of Property-The bill would prohibit an increase in the appraised value of real property solely as a result of normal repair, replacement, or maintenance of existing structures, equipment, or other improvement on the property. Payment Plans-The bill would authorize county treasurers to accept partial payments and establish payment plans for all property taxes. Current law allows treasurers to accept partial payments for delinquent property taxes. Finally, this bill will eliminate the property tax lid, which currently requires a public vote or certain property tax increases by cities and counties. The process of navigating the property tax lid could be cumbersome and often resulted in no practical benefit to the taxpayer.

The process included with SB13 greatly enhances the ability of Kansas taxpayers to understand what their local government is doing and then object. By requiring local officers to vote to exceed a revenue neutral rate, taxpayers can hold local officials accountable. The House amended the bill to include all local taxing jurisdictions in the state, including school districts. The Senate accepted the amendments, and the bill is now headed to the governor.

The Kansas Senate voted on SB50 which will provide fairness to main street businesses in Kansas that are attempting to compete with out-of-state online retailers. SB50 would mandate the collection and remittance of sales and compensating use tax by most marketplace facilitators beginning July 1, 2021. Entities with an annual gross receipt from sales into Kansas in excess of $100,000 would be subject to the mandate, which also would apply to out-of-state retailers with annual receipts from sales sourced into Kansas in excess of $100,000. In the Wayfair decision, the United States Supreme court made it clear that states needed to have a threshold in order to be in compliance. This will help level the playing field with Kansas businesses that are already collecting sales tax on sales in Kansas.

The Senate Ways and Means committee completed our work on the budget last week and the budget bill is scheduled to be debated on the floor Tuesday.

It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is&nbsp;785- 899-4700.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

The 40th Senate District includes Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties, and a portion of Phillips County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610490291573.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>March 16, 2021One of the first priorities of the Senate was to address property tax reform. The bill requires local government to practice “Truth in Taxation” when they desire to use revenues from higher property valuations to increase taxes. This legislation is similar to legislation that has been used in several states, including Utah for over 20 years. The highlights of the bill: Transparency-The bill would establish new notifications and public hearing requirements for taxing subdivisions seeking to increase property taxes above those provided for by their “revenue-neutral rate.” A taxing subdivision would be prohibited from levying taxes exceeding its revenue-neutral rate without first approving a resolution or ordinance in accordance with the procedure provided by the bill. It requires county clerks to notify the public about the intent to exceed the “revenue neutral rate” via publishing such notification on their website as well as via a mailing to each taxpayer impacted. The public hearing would have to he held by September 10th. The governing body of the taxing district would have to vote to exceed the revenue neutral rate by a majority vote. Those entities not complying would be required to refund the property taxes. Regular Maintenance of Property-The bill would prohibit an increase in the appraised value of real property solely as a result of normal repair, replacement, or maintenance of existing structures, equipment, or other improvement on the property. Payment Plans-The bill would authorize county treasurers to accept partial payments and establish payment plans for all property taxes. Current law allows treasurers to accept partial payments for delinquent property taxes. Finally, this bill will eliminate the property tax lid, which currently requires a public vote or certain property tax increases by cities and counties. The process of navigating the property tax lid could be cumbersome and often resulted in no practical benefit to the taxpayer.The process included with SB13 greatly enhances the ability of Kansas taxpayers to understand what their local government is doing and then object. By requiring local officers to vote to exceed a revenue neutral rate, taxpayers can hold local officials accountable. The House amended the bill to include all local taxing jurisdictions in the state, including school districts. The Senate accepted the amendments, and the bill is now headed to the governor.The Kansas Senate voted on SB50 which will provide fairness to main street businesses in Kansas that are attempting to compete with out-of-state online retailers. SB50 would mandate the collection and remittance of sales and compensating use tax by most marketplace facilitators beginning July 1, 2021. Entities with an annual gross receipt from sales into Kansas in excess of $100,000 would be subject to the mandate, which also would apply to out-of-state retailers with annual receipts from sales sourced into Kansas in excess of $100,000. In the Wayfair decision, the United States Supreme court made it clear that states needed to have a threshold in order to be in compliance. This will help level the playing field with Kansas businesses that are already collecting sales tax on sales in Kansas.The Senate Ways and Means committee completed our work on the budget last week and the budget bill is scheduled to be debated on the floor Tuesday.It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is&nbsp;785- 899-4700.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.The 40th Senate District includes Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties, and a portion of Phillips County.

BILLINGER: Senate Update, March 16

With the first Republican having now filed to challenge Gov. Laura Kelly in 2022, Kansans are about to hear a raft of claims and counter-claims about the Kansas Department of Labor’s woeful handling of unemployment claims during the pandemic.&nbsp; Most will lay the blame squarely on the governor.&nbsp; Like many of the unemployment filings themselves, quite a few of these claims will be fraudulent.&nbsp; The barrage could start any day now, so before it does, here is what we know.

	First, the computers themselves were decrepit due to decades of deferred maintenance.&nbsp; As the pandemic hit, KDOL computers dated from the 1970s. My colleague Patrick Miller wrote about the developing problems back in April 2020.&nbsp; Then the deluge worsened.&nbsp; Entire mainframes processing tens of thousands of claims had far less processing capacity than one modern-day phone, watch, or thermostat.&nbsp; They could not be serviced or repaired, since the production of replacement parts ended decades ago.

How did this happen? Another colleague, Burdett Loomis warned us in his 2019 column about the aging Docking State Office Building.&nbsp; Kansas has a huge backlog of deferred maintenance, from buildings to computers to infrastructure. Pushing back maintenance schedules is a seemingly painless way to balance budgets without tax increases or cuts to popular programs. In truth, the pain is simply hidden.&nbsp; Over time it saddles the state with multi-billion dollar liabilities and an inability to cope with crises such as the pandemic.&nbsp; 

Republicans and Democrats alike bear responsibility.&nbsp; Both ignored or downplayed the problem. Some even made it worse. For example, a Brownback-era experiment in no-bid contracting for these services diverted money that could have funded the necessary upgrades.&nbsp; Now, the Legislature has finally appropriated the money for these upgrades.&nbsp; They expected to be completed in 2022 — a little late to help with the pandemic.

	KDOL’s problems go far beyond slow processing and jammed phone lines.&nbsp; Thousands and thousands of Kansans have been hit with fraudulent unemployment claims filed in their names.&nbsp; Even the governor herself has been affected. &nbsp; Kansas is not alone.&nbsp; California paid out an estimated $9 billion on such fake claims, and other states in our region were also affected, with Colorado and Missouri being particularly hard-hit.&nbsp; Still, Kansans are right to want answers.

	Current investigations indicate that the data breach did not occur in Kansas.&nbsp; Instead, overseas fraudsters data-mined personal information from countless Kansans using earlier data leaks such as the 2017 breach of Equifax, a credit-reporting agency.&nbsp; The fraudsters then sat on this data and waited.&nbsp; The flood of claims due during pandemic was their moment, and they pounced.&nbsp; Already overwhelmed, KDOL was unable to cope.&nbsp; 

Like other states, Kansas has paid out many of these claims, and some, perhaps most of that money is gone forever.&nbsp; KDOL has announced that no Kansas individual or company will be penalized as a result, but there have still been countless inconveniences including delays in processing legitimate claims, not to mention the time consumed by cancelling credit cards, changing account numbers, and just generally re-claiming one’s identity.&nbsp; Also, some Kansans still do not know that they were affected and will find out later.

It is true that as Kansas’ chief executive, the buck stops with Kelly.&nbsp; Also, KDOL worsened the problem by being slow to respond, and by not being transparent with the news media.&nbsp; Even so, blaming the governor alone does not even begin to capture the magnitude of this.&nbsp; KDOL’s problems were decades in the making.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576785940426.png" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>With the first Republican having now filed to challenge Gov. Laura Kelly in 2022, Kansans are about to hear a raft of claims and counter-claims about the Kansas Department of Labor’s woeful handling of unemployment claims during the pandemic.&nbsp; Most will lay the blame squarely on the governor.&nbsp; Like many of the unemployment filings themselves, quite a few of these claims will be fraudulent.&nbsp; The barrage could start any day now, so before it does, here is what we know.	First, the computers themselves were decrepit due to decades of deferred maintenance.&nbsp; As the pandemic hit, KDOL computers dated from the 1970s. My colleague Patrick Miller wrote about the developing problems back in April 2020.&nbsp; Then the deluge worsened.&nbsp; Entire mainframes processing tens of thousands of claims had far less processing capacity than one modern-day phone, watch, or thermostat.&nbsp; They could not be serviced or repaired, since the production of replacement parts ended decades ago.How did this happen? Another colleague, Burdett Loomis warned us in his 2019 column about the aging Docking State Office Building.&nbsp; Kansas has a huge backlog of deferred maintenance, from buildings to computers to infrastructure. Pushing back maintenance schedules is a seemingly painless way to balance budgets without tax increases or cuts to popular programs. In truth, the pain is simply hidden.&nbsp; Over time it saddles the state with multi-billion dollar liabilities and an inability to cope with crises such as the pandemic.&nbsp; Republicans and Democrats alike bear responsibility.&nbsp; Both ignored or downplayed the problem. Some even made it worse. For example, a Brownback-era experiment in no-bid contracting for these services diverted money that could have funded the necessary upgrades.&nbsp; Now, the Legislature has finally appropriated the money for these upgrades.&nbsp; They expected to be completed in 2022 — a little late to help with the pandemic.	KDOL’s problems go far beyond slow processing and jammed phone lines.&nbsp; Thousands and thousands of Kansans have been hit with fraudulent unemployment claims filed in their names.&nbsp; Even the governor herself has been affected. &nbsp; Kansas is not alone.&nbsp; California paid out an estimated $9 billion on such fake claims, and other states in our region were also affected, with Colorado and Missouri being particularly hard-hit.&nbsp; Still, Kansans are right to want answers.	Current investigations indicate that the data breach did not occur in Kansas.&nbsp; Instead, overseas fraudsters data-mined personal information from countless Kansans using earlier data leaks such as the 2017 breach of Equifax, a credit-reporting agency.&nbsp; The fraudsters then sat on this data and waited.&nbsp; The flood of claims due during pandemic was their moment, and they pounced.&nbsp; Already overwhelmed, KDOL was unable to cope.&nbsp; Like other states, Kansas has paid out many of these claims, and some, perhaps most of that money is gone forever.&nbsp; KDOL has announced that no Kansas individual or company will be penalized as a result, but there have still been countless inconveniences including delays in processing legitimate claims, not to mention the time consumed by cancelling credit cards, changing account numbers, and just generally re-claiming one’s identity.&nbsp; Also, some Kansans still do not know that they were affected and will find out later.It is true that as Kansas’ chief executive, the buck stops with Kelly.&nbsp; Also, KDOL worsened the problem by being slow to respond, and by not being transparent with the news media.&nbsp; Even so, blaming the governor alone does not even begin to capture the magnitude of this.&nbsp; KDOL’s problems were decades in the making.&nbsp;&nbsp;Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: What really happened at Kan. Department of Labor

The 4-H cloverleaf symbol is a well-recognized emblem but have you ever stopped to think about what is behind the emblem?&nbsp;

The purpose of 4-H extends well beyond the county or state fair and each H of the emblem represents an integral part. Providing educational strategies and opportunities for youth, in partnership with adults, to develop life skills is truly the goal of 4-H.&nbsp;

I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking – The first line of the 4-H pledge speaks to the importance of developing critical thinking and problem solving. This is a skill that can be modeled by adults and mentors but must be practiced by the youth to improve.

I pledge my HEART to greater loyalty -&nbsp; This section of the pledge is all about self-discipline, integrity and communication. Making time to work on projects, care for livestock and complete record books are activities that reinforce self-discipline. Handling successful and not-so-successful events and being responsible for your own projects builds integrity. Communications skills are relevant in every field, every job and every relationship. Practicing communication skills with fellow 4-H members, club leaders, judges and the community are necessary as this doesn’t come naturally or easily for everyone.

I pledge my HANDS to larger service -&nbsp; The third line of the 4-H pledge speaks to service and servant leadership. Raising people who are comfortable and willing to accept leadership roles in organizations is crucial for the continued growth and success of our communities. Not everyone, however, is comfortable with their “leadership” on display and leaders can have a huge impact -&nbsp; positive or negative! Watch a young person, who may not be comfortable presenting in front of a large group, quietly show another how to wash a calf, show a pig or finish a hem “just right”. That is servant leadership!

I pledge my HEALTH to better living – In a world increasingly critical of agricultural practices, it is important to know where our food comes from and make good choices in regard to healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. Being the best version of ourselves contributes to the success of all around us.

The activities of 4-H teach life skills such as the ability to clearly and concisely present material to an audience, understand meeting structure for efficient and productive meetings, and updating records from record books to checkbooks and budgets.&nbsp;

We are all competitive and want to do well but often the learning process and life skills are more important than a judge’s opinion on a given day. Life skills- That’s what it’s all about!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at <a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a> or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The 4-H cloverleaf symbol is a well-recognized emblem but have you ever stopped to think about what is behind the emblem?&nbsp;The purpose of 4-H extends well beyond the county or state fair and each H of the emblem represents an integral part. Providing educational strategies and opportunities for youth, in partnership with adults, to develop life skills is truly the goal of 4-H.&nbsp;I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking – The first line of the 4-H pledge speaks to the importance of developing critical thinking and problem solving. This is a skill that can be modeled by adults and mentors but must be practiced by the youth to improve.I pledge my HEART to greater loyalty -&nbsp; This section of the pledge is all about self-discipline, integrity and communication. Making time to work on projects, care for livestock and complete record books are activities that reinforce self-discipline. Handling successful and not-so-successful events and being responsible for your own projects builds integrity. Communications skills are relevant in every field, every job and every relationship. Practicing communication skills with fellow 4-H members, club leaders, judges and the community are necessary as this doesn’t come naturally or easily for everyone.I pledge my HANDS to larger service -&nbsp; The third line of the 4-H pledge speaks to service and servant leadership. Raising people who are comfortable and willing to accept leadership roles in organizations is crucial for the continued growth and success of our communities. Not everyone, however, is comfortable with their “leadership” on display and leaders can have a huge impact -&nbsp; positive or negative! Watch a young person, who may not be comfortable presenting in front of a large group, quietly show another how to wash a calf, show a pig or finish a hem “just right”. That is servant leadership!I pledge my HEALTH to better living – In a world increasingly critical of agricultural practices, it is important to know where our food comes from and make good choices in regard to healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. Being the best version of ourselves contributes to the success of all around us.The activities of 4-H teach life skills such as the ability to clearly and concisely present material to an audience, understand meeting structure for efficient and productive meetings, and updating records from record books to checkbooks and budgets.&nbsp;We are all competitive and want to do well but often the learning process and life skills are more important than a judge’s opinion on a given day. Life skills- That’s what it’s all about!Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at <a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a> or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H — what’s it all about anyway?

Spring is just around the corner and the Walk Kansas registration is open.&nbsp; Living a healthier lifestyle doesn’t mean changing everything at once. It’s about understanding lifestyle choices you make each day and improving these habits one step at a time.&nbsp;

In Walk Kansas, participants are encouraged to form teams of six, with one serving as captain. Team members record their own activity – walking, bicycling or other activity – online weekly. For the first time this year, a pilot program allows participants to sign up individually rather than as part of team if they choose. The program this year starts on March 28th and finishes up on May 22nd.&nbsp;

Though teams and individuals don’t actually walk across the state, the goal is to walk in their own neighborhoods or communities an equivalent distance to walking across Kansas. Plus, they’ll learn virtually about the state along the way. Each team (or individual) chooses one of three challenges at the outset, each with different goals.

Challenge 1, for example, sets a minimum guideline of 30 minutes of exercise five days a week and takes a team on a virtual tour of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Challenges 2 and 3 increase the goals set.&nbsp; Those who sign up for the individual pilot program will walk (virtually) the Purple Power Trail, which begins on the Kansas State University campus. The individual sets a personal goal to determine how far along they will go during the eight weeks.

How can you join Walk Kansas in 2021?&nbsp;

Anyone, young or old, can participate in Walk Kansas! Technology allows participants to stay connected even if they don’t live close by. Teams can include co-workers, family members, neighbors, school classmates, members of civic or community organizations, or faith-based group. The team concept is important so team members must agree to support and encourage one another. &nbsp;

If you have questions, please give Theresa or Berny a call at the Extension Office at 785-628-9430.

Berny Unruh is the Family &amp; Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (785)628-9430 or <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Spring is just around the corner and the Walk Kansas registration is open.&nbsp; Living a healthier lifestyle doesn’t mean changing everything at once. It’s about understanding lifestyle choices you make each day and improving these habits one step at a time.&nbsp;In Walk Kansas, participants are encouraged to form teams of six, with one serving as captain. Team members record their own activity – walking, bicycling or other activity – online weekly. For the first time this year, a pilot program allows participants to sign up individually rather than as part of team if they choose. The program this year starts on March 28th and finishes up on May 22nd.&nbsp;Though teams and individuals don’t actually walk across the state, the goal is to walk in their own neighborhoods or communities an equivalent distance to walking across Kansas. Plus, they’ll learn virtually about the state along the way. Each team (or individual) chooses one of three challenges at the outset, each with different goals.Challenge 1, for example, sets a minimum guideline of 30 minutes of exercise five days a week and takes a team on a virtual tour of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Challenges 2 and 3 increase the goals set.&nbsp; Those who sign up for the individual pilot program will walk (virtually) the Purple Power Trail, which begins on the Kansas State University campus. The individual sets a personal goal to determine how far along they will go during the eight weeks.How can you join Walk Kansas in 2021?&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Recruit or join a team (6 people, with one person designated as the captain).</li><li>Registration is online at <a href="http://www.walkkansas.org">www.walkkansas.org</a> Cost to participate is $10 per person and this will be paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office – Hays, 601 Main Street. State employees who participate can earn Health Quest credits and their fee is waived. A Walk Kansas t-shirt and other apparel is available for an additional cost and this year your shirt will be mailed directly to you.&nbsp;</li><li>The program includes access to the online tracker, a weekly newsletter, program resources, and some local activities.&nbsp;</li><li>To participate, each person logs minutes of activity and reports daily/weekly. Cups of fruits/vegetables and water consumption can also be tracked.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Anyone, young or old, can participate in Walk Kansas! Technology allows participants to stay connected even if they don’t live close by. Teams can include co-workers, family members, neighbors, school classmates, members of civic or community organizations, or faith-based group. The team concept is important so team members must agree to support and encourage one another. &nbsp;If you have questions, please give Theresa or Berny a call at the Extension Office at 785-628-9430.Berny Unruh is the Family &amp; Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (785)628-9430 or <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

UNRUH: Walk Kansas 2021

America's government is totally out of control period.  When it gets turned around, if ever, is anybody's guess.

I have heard or read on the news a hundred times by Republicans "wait until the 2022 election" at which time we will take back congress and then in 2024 we will take back the White House."  That's a big if. 

Before making my case in this letter to the editor, let me say I do not want to be an alarmist or conspiracy theorist.  Ask anybody who knows me personally they will tell you I'm an optimistic kind of guy, but what I see going on, optimism is not at the top of my list.

I contend this country is on its way to becoming a one party government.  In the past several months I've had four published letters.  The first one was all about the evils of voting Democrat in the 2020 national election and that has come true considering the many radical extreme leftist liberal and progressive agendas that have already been put in place.

That letter was followed by the many Democrat plans years ahead of time to steal the 2020 election, then a letter that this same party can do anything without accountability, and the most recent one was about this party having one standard of justice (virtually non-existent), while Republicans have a completely different one.

What it comes down to is that we are no longer a democratic republic.  We are like a third world country and I repeat, potentially on the way to a one party government in control of all three branches of our government as is the case currently.

A major factor to consider is the total lack of integrity in our elections.  I've seen multiple sources that clearly show voter fraud.  Speaking of inequality of justice, courts completely turned their backs on constitutionally filed lawsuits.  Votes last two elections in favor of the Democrat Party had no legal limits.  Voters could do anything. The courts could care less.

Our Supreme Court was anything but supreme.  It turned its back and ran for the hills to avoid investigation as they turned up their nose at Trump, and clearly supported Democrats.  Think about it readers!  If the highest court in the land won't protect our constitution as per elections, where do we go from here?

We can hope SCOTUS eventually gets involved, but there's no guarantee.  Even if they do, and find massive fraud, my opinion is they won't have the spine to do anything about it.  

What about the current invasion at our borders with millions coming illegally at the invitation of our very own President Biden who will, with just the stroke of a pen probably, give illegals amnesty, then citizenship, then the right to vote.  As sad as it may be, foreigners may have a lot to do with Democrats forever controlling this country.

Look for me to have a succeeding letter to the editor shortly.  There's lots more to this issue.

Les Knoll, Victoria and Gilbert, Ariz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>America's government is totally out of control period. When it gets turned around, if ever, is anybody's guess.I have heard or read on the news a hundred times by Republicans "wait until the 2022 election" at which time we will take back congress and then in 2024 we will take back the White House." That's a big if. Before making my case in this letter to the editor, let me say I do not want to be an alarmist or conspiracy theorist. Ask anybody who knows me personally they will tell you I'm an optimistic kind of guy, but what I see going on, optimism is not at the top of my list.I contend this country is on its way to becoming a one party government. In the past several months I've had four published letters. The first one was all about the evils of voting Democrat in the 2020 national election and that has come true considering the many radical extreme leftist liberal and progressive agendas that have already been put in place.That letter was followed by the many Democrat plans years ahead of time to steal the 2020 election, then a letter that this same party can do anything without accountability, and the most recent one was about this party having one standard of justice (virtually non-existent), while Republicans have a completely different one.What it comes down to is that we are no longer a democratic republic. We are like a third world country and I repeat, potentially on the way to a one party government in control of all three branches of our government as is the case currently.A major factor to consider is the total lack of integrity in our elections. I've seen multiple sources that clearly show voter fraud. Speaking of inequality of justice, courts completely turned their backs on constitutionally filed lawsuits. Votes last two elections in favor of the Democrat Party had no legal limits. Voters could do anything. The courts could care less.Our Supreme Court was anything but supreme. It turned its back and ran for the hills to avoid investigation as they turned up their nose at Trump, and clearly supported Democrats. Think about it readers! If the highest court in the land won't protect our constitution as per elections, where do we go from here?We can hope SCOTUS eventually gets involved, but there's no guarantee. Even if they do, and find massive fraud, my opinion is they won't have the spine to do anything about it. What about the current invasion at our borders with millions coming illegally at the invitation of our very own President Biden who will, with just the stroke of a pen probably, give illegals amnesty, then citizenship, then the right to vote. As sad as it may be, foreigners may have a lot to do with Democrats forever controlling this country.Look for me to have a succeeding letter to the editor shortly. There's lots more to this issue.Les Knoll, Victoria and Gilbert, Ariz.

LETTER: America is in free fall

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

A perfect spring day has a bright blue sky, just the right amount of heat, a light breeze and an almost unnoticeable humidity. It’s always a welcome sight after winter, but especially after Mother Nature treats everyone to two weeks of below-freezing temperatures. All of that is on top of months of pandemic-induced cabin fever.

Yes, it’s safe to say I’m ready for spring for all the usual reasons: green grass, blooming flowers and trees, longer days and anticipation of summer. But this year the normal sense of renewal that comes with a dose of spring is heightened by the widespread distribution of vaccines that will let us return to living our lives in a more normal fashion.

At this point, all of this will happen sooner rather than later. Somethings are never going back the way they were before. That’s good for some things, like remote work or more people buying their food directly from farmers and ranchers. These are the benefits that will stay with us long after everyone has had their chance to get a shot.

For everything else to return, however, getting needles in every willing arm as fast as possible is the ticket back to the good life. I understand why some people are wary of taking one of these shots. Two of the three vaccines are based on a relatively new technology, and they were developed four times faster than any previous inoculation.

Again, I understand wanting to be cautious, but I believe the rapid development of these vaccines is an achievement to be celebrated. A combination of government incentives and private enterprise combined to deliver doses of a safe and effective antidote to a modern-day plague in less than a year.

It will take more time to see the full benefits of these vaccines, but early results in reducing the risk of death and hospitalizations are encouraging. Anecdotal reports from friends and family who’ve received their shots have also been positive. This is a revolutionary development in humans’ fight against disease.

That message has been somewhat muddled because caution and mitigation efforts are still necessary. Vaccine supply constraints and the lead time needed before they’re fully effective require continued vigilance. But production is ramping up, and so is the pace of doses going into arms. But with each passing day we’re getting closer to reaching critical mass, closer to the end of this pandemic.

Closer to hearing the hum of a crowded restaurant on a Friday night. Closer to watching the latest movie in a theater. Closer to boarding airplanes and collecting passport stamps. Closer to concerts, sporting events and celebrations disrupted over the past year.

Just as a good dose of spring makes us quickly forget the chill of winter, a shot or two this season will get us to the other side of the pandemic by summer. And I expect it will be as glorious as feeling a shot of sunshine during a perfect spring day.

<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 BureauA perfect spring day has a bright blue sky, just the right amount of heat, a light breeze and an almost unnoticeable humidity. It’s always a welcome sight after winter, but especially after Mother Nature treats everyone to two weeks of below-freezing temperatures. All of that is on top of months of pandemic-induced cabin fever.Yes, it’s safe to say I’m ready for spring for all the usual reasons: green grass, blooming flowers and trees, longer days and anticipation of summer. But this year the normal sense of renewal that comes with a dose of spring is heightened by the widespread distribution of vaccines that will let us return to living our lives in a more normal fashion.At this point, all of this will happen sooner rather than later. Somethings are never going back the way they were before. That’s good for some things, like remote work or more people buying their food directly from farmers and ranchers. These are the benefits that will stay with us long after everyone has had their chance to get a shot.For everything else to return, however, getting needles in every willing arm as fast as possible is the ticket back to the good life. I understand why some people are wary of taking one of these shots. Two of the three vaccines are based on a relatively new technology, and they were developed four times faster than any previous inoculation.Again, I understand wanting to be cautious, but I believe the rapid development of these vaccines is an achievement to be celebrated. A combination of government incentives and private enterprise combined to deliver doses of a safe and effective antidote to a modern-day plague in less than a year.It will take more time to see the full benefits of these vaccines, but early results in reducing the risk of death and hospitalizations are encouraging. Anecdotal reports from friends and family who’ve received their shots have also been positive. This is a revolutionary development in humans’ fight against disease.That message has been somewhat muddled because caution and mitigation efforts are still necessary. Vaccine supply constraints and the lead time needed before they’re fully effective require continued vigilance. But production is ramping up, and so is the pace of doses going into arms. But with each passing day we’re getting closer to reaching critical mass, closer to the end of this pandemic.Closer to hearing the hum of a crowded restaurant on a Friday night. Closer to watching the latest movie in a theater. Closer to boarding airplanes and collecting passport stamps. Closer to concerts, sporting events and celebrations disrupted over the past year.Just as a good dose of spring makes us quickly forget the chill of winter, a shot or two this season will get us to the other side of the pandemic by summer. And I expect it will be as glorious as feeling a shot of sunshine during a perfect spring day."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.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Shots of spring

I went on this trip knowing full well I’d be resigned to using an alias in place of my friends name here in this story, and that I might be referring to our destination as “somewhere southwest of Cleveland.” You see, die-hard fishermen would as soon rat out their own mother as divulge the location of their honey holes. With that in mind, and even though I was forced to ride blindfolded, and was spun around three times at each stop before removing it, I am comfortable telling you we were at one of Kansas’ major reservoirs.

Gizzard Shad are the bait fish present in most major water impoundments in the US, and the dynamite sport fishing here in Kansas owes its soul to these lowly prey fish. However, shad are hyper- sensitive to oxygen levels in the water and die easily when O2 levels get low. During cold winters when ice covers lakes and reservoirs for a long time, restricted sunlight interrupts photosynthesis which in turn means a disruption in oxygen production by plants in the lakes, often causing a major die-off of gizzard shad.&nbsp;

Such was the case this past winter, as ice remained thick on Kansas lakes, reservoirs and ponds for a couple weeks, resulting in lots of shad dying and either dropping to the bottom of the lake immediately, or floating up to be frozen in the ice.&nbsp; When the ice finally thaws, all those dead shad are washed against shorelines and into backwater bays. The abnormally warm days like we are having now, warm those shallow backwaters first, so the catfish will eventually swarm into them by boat loads for the feast. Its all in the timing; knowing or figuring out when the fish are there.&nbsp;

The best baits to catch early season catfish are pieces of dead shad or other fish, shad gizzards which can be cut from dead shad found along the shore or commercial baits that smell like shad or shad parts. Catfish feed on the bottom by scent, so baits should be fished on the bottom or just slightly above. The most common way to rig for catching early season cats’ is to start with a large, heavy, slip sinker that is loose on the line allowing it to lay on the bottom while the hook and bait can be picked up and carried a short distance by the catfish before setting the hook. Place the sinker a couple feet above the hook, using a swivel to keep it from going any lower on the line. The bait you choose will determine what hook to use; if using a solid bait that can be hooked on a regular hook, a large bait hook or circle hook should be used. If using a dip bait or punch bait that is thinner, treble hooks or hooks made especially for those baits will work best. Since you’ll be fishing in shallow water for these early feeders, you can often fish from the bank or don waders to get you a little farther out. Once the bait is cast as far out as you can toss it, allow lots of slack in the line as these guys will usually pick up the bait and swim a short way before finally inhaling it. Watch and feel your line and when a fish takes up all the slack, vigorously set the hook to be certain to sink it into their boney mouth.

We tried fishing a couple shallow backwaters by wading out far enough to get our bait to the middle of the bay, but a combination of leaky waders and seemingly no catfish there, sent us to the nearest boat dock to launch his boat and try our luck on the lake proper. The lake was too choppy for us to get anywhere but the dam, so we tried our luck at finding some crappie over a brush pile in front of the dam, again with nothing to show for our efforts. We loaded the boat and drove down below the gates at the spillway to fish a short while there before heading home. I landed one nice 18-inch channel cat and my friend found a big freshwater drum before calling it a day.&nbsp;

On years when all the above conditions align, this same scenario will play out on any large lake filled with shad and catfish. It was a fun early outing; we saw a couple bald eagles, stocked up on plenty of free sunshine-administered vitamin D and were “wowed” as usual by all of God’s Creation. So, get out this spring and take a kid fishing as you 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>I went on this trip knowing full well I’d be resigned to using an alias in place of my friends name here in this story, and that I might be referring to our destination as “somewhere southwest of Cleveland.” You see, die-hard fishermen would as soon rat out their own mother as divulge the location of their honey holes. With that in mind, and even though I was forced to ride blindfolded, and was spun around three times at each stop before removing it, I am comfortable telling you we were at one of Kansas’ major reservoirs.Gizzard Shad are the bait fish present in most major water impoundments in the US, and the dynamite sport fishing here in Kansas owes its soul to these lowly prey fish. However, shad are hyper- sensitive to oxygen levels in the water and die easily when O2 levels get low. During cold winters when ice covers lakes and reservoirs for a long time, restricted sunlight interrupts photosynthesis which in turn means a disruption in oxygen production by plants in the lakes, often causing a major die-off of gizzard shad.&nbsp;Such was the case this past winter, as ice remained thick on Kansas lakes, reservoirs and ponds for a couple weeks, resulting in lots of shad dying and either dropping to the bottom of the lake immediately, or floating up to be frozen in the ice.&nbsp; When the ice finally thaws, all those dead shad are washed against shorelines and into backwater bays. The abnormally warm days like we are having now, warm those shallow backwaters first, so the catfish will eventually swarm into them by boat loads for the feast. Its all in the timing; knowing or figuring out when the fish are there.&nbsp;The best baits to catch early season catfish are pieces of dead shad or other fish, shad gizzards which can be cut from dead shad found along the shore or commercial baits that smell like shad or shad parts. Catfish feed on the bottom by scent, so baits should be fished on the bottom or just slightly above. The most common way to rig for catching early season cats’ is to start with a large, heavy, slip sinker that is loose on the line allowing it to lay on the bottom while the hook and bait can be picked up and carried a short distance by the catfish before setting the hook. Place the sinker a couple feet above the hook, using a swivel to keep it from going any lower on the line. The bait you choose will determine what hook to use; if using a solid bait that can be hooked on a regular hook, a large bait hook or circle hook should be used. If using a dip bait or punch bait that is thinner, treble hooks or hooks made especially for those baits will work best. Since you’ll be fishing in shallow water for these early feeders, you can often fish from the bank or don waders to get you a little farther out. Once the bait is cast as far out as you can toss it, allow lots of slack in the line as these guys will usually pick up the bait and swim a short way before finally inhaling it. Watch and feel your line and when a fish takes up all the slack, vigorously set the hook to be certain to sink it into their boney mouth.We tried fishing a couple shallow backwaters by wading out far enough to get our bait to the middle of the bay, but a combination of leaky waders and seemingly no catfish there, sent us to the nearest boat dock to launch his boat and try our luck on the lake proper. The lake was too choppy for us to get anywhere but the dam, so we tried our luck at finding some crappie over a brush pile in front of the dam, again with nothing to show for our efforts. We loaded the boat and drove down below the gates at the spillway to fish a short while there before heading home. I landed one nice 18-inch channel cat and my friend found a big freshwater drum before calling it a day.&nbsp;On years when all the above conditions align, this same scenario will play out on any large lake filled with shad and catfish. It was a fun early outing; we saw a couple bald eagles, stocked up on plenty of free sunshine-administered vitamin D and were “wowed” as usual by all of God’s Creation. So, get out this spring and take a kid fishing as you Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Hooking early Kansas cats’

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Now is the time to finalize plans for kochia (aka fireweed) control. Recent research suggests that kochia can begin emerging in early February with most kochia emerging by early April. Kochia seedlings emerge in dense populations and have dense hairs that make adequate post herbicide coverage and adsorption difficult, with disappointing results. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia is prevalent across western Kansas, making kochia control even more challenging. For these reasons, it is important to apply pre-emergence herbicides in late winter or early spring to control this weed before it emerges.&nbsp;

Herbicide program components to effectively manage kochia at germination

To successfully manage kochia, an herbicide program needs two components:

Precipitation events during late winter are often too small to activate longer residual herbicides, but dicamba may control kochia for 4 to 6 weeks until the longer residual herbicide is incorporated.

The best timing to apply herbicides for kochia control is generally January through the first week of March but prior to kochia emergence, which can vary depending on weather conditions. Later applications, for example, at the time of burndown, are more likely to occur after kochia emergence, which increases the risk of control failure.&nbsp;

If it is difficult for a grower to apply pre-emerge herbicides in early Spring. A Fall-applied treatment can also be effective to help ensure timely application, and good control, however, they are not likely to effectively control later flushes of kochia.

The duration of a fall applied herbicide in early December and combined with a spring pre-emerge application in late February has achieved greater than 80% control of kochia in Kansas. These treatments were conducted in Tribune and Garden City by K-State Weed Science specialist. They used three different treatments and each one was equally effective. They were ATZ + Clarity + Sharpen; ATZ + Clarity + Zidua; and Atrazine + Clarity.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615301123518.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNow is the time to finalize plans for kochia (aka fireweed) control. Recent research suggests that kochia can begin emerging in early February with most kochia emerging by early April. Kochia seedlings emerge in dense populations and have dense hairs that make adequate post herbicide coverage and adsorption difficult, with disappointing results. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia is prevalent across western Kansas, making kochia control even more challenging. For these reasons, it is important to apply pre-emergence herbicides in late winter or early spring to control this weed before it emerges.&nbsp;Herbicide program components to effectively manage kochia at germinationTo successfully manage kochia, an herbicide program needs two components:<ol>
 <li>a very soluble and effective herbicide that can be incorporated with very little precipitation, such as dicamba; and</li><li>an herbicide that has longer residual activity, which will require perhaps 0.75 inches or more precipitation for adequate incorporation, such as atrazine.</li>
 </ol>Precipitation events during late winter are often too small to activate longer residual herbicides, but dicamba may control kochia for 4 to 6 weeks until the longer residual herbicide is incorporated.The best timing to apply herbicides for kochia control is generally January through the first week of March but prior to kochia emergence, which can vary depending on weather conditions. Later applications, for example, at the time of burndown, are more likely to occur after kochia emergence, which increases the risk of control failure.&nbsp;If it is difficult for a grower to apply pre-emerge herbicides in early Spring. A Fall-applied treatment can also be effective to help ensure timely application, and good control, however, they are not likely to effectively control later flushes of kochia.The duration of a fall applied herbicide in early December and combined with a spring pre-emerge application in late February has achieved greater than 80% control of kochia in Kansas. These treatments were conducted in Tribune and Garden City by K-State Weed Science specialist. They used three different treatments and each one was equally effective. They were ATZ + Clarity + Sharpen; ATZ + Clarity + Zidua; and Atrazine + Clarity.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Pre-plant herbicide applications for kochia control

Crude prices retreated on Monday, after a wild ride last week, followed by a missile attack on the world's largest crude terminal over the weekend. Crude prices surged above $71 a barrel in Asian trading after the attack in Saudi Arabia Sunday. Bloomberg said output appeared to be unaffected after the missiles and drones were intercepted.&nbsp; The OPEC+ alliance decided to extend its current output cuts. And the Saudis say they will continue their additional, voluntary production limits. The announcements sent crude prices through the roof last week, with the U.S. and international benchmarks jumping more than three percent. U.S. Crude prices continue their roller coaster ride. Benchmark prices topped $66 a barrel on Friday, marking a $4 gain on the week, after $3 losses the week before, and $3 gains the week before that. Prices were retreating Monday.&nbsp; Kansas crude prices have spiked more than $5 in the last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $56.25 per barrel after jumping more than $2 on Friday. The rig count in Kansas is up 20 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one for the week, and 14 in western Kansas, which is up two. Operators are about to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County and another in Stafford County.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 403 active drilling rigs nationwide as of Friday, an increase of one oil rig over the count last week. Texas was up five rigs, but Louisiana was down two, and both New Mexico and North Dakota were down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 newly completed wells in eastern Kansas last week and six west of Wichita. That's 116 completed wells across Kansas so far this year. We're seeing completion activity this week on five leases in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, six in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including two new permits in Russell County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, we've seen 122 permits for drilling at new locations in The Sunflower State. National gasoline prices continued to increase, rising nine cents last week and 30 cents in the month of February. AAA says the average across the U.S. Thursday was just over $2.74 a gallon, the most expensive daily national average since August of 2019. Prices across Kansas over the last month have jumped more than 36 cents to a statewide average just over $2.57 a gallon. We spotted $2.54 at several locations in Hays Thursday and $2.57 across Great Bend. The cost of filling up a 15-gallon tank is up more than four dollars from a month ago and up more than eight dollars compared to six months ago. A new federal report pegs Kansas crude oil production last year at just under 28 million barrels, or 76,000 barrels per day. Last year, most Kansas producers shut in most Kansas production due to low prices. That dropped annual production 17 percent from the year before, when total output in the Sunflower State reached nearly 34 million barrels, or about 93,000 barrels per day. The new totals from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show total U.S. output last year reached just 11.3 million barrels per day, down more than 940,000 barrels per day from the year before. U.S. crude inventories rose by 12.6 million barrels last week to nearly 485 million barrels. That's about three percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production dropped below ten million barrels per day for the second week in a row, marking the first time that's happened since September. A year ago this week, operators set the all-time record for domestic production over 13 million barrels per day. The government reported an increase in U.S. crude imports of nearly two million barrels per day last week, but said the four-week average remains nearly 13% below the same period last year. Oil-by-rail totals for the week ending February 27 rose more than 2,000 tanker cars from the week before, but the totals are down more than 22% from a year ago. Oil-by-rail in Canada, which is widely expected to spike without additional pipeline capacity, was up more than 1,000 tanker cars last week, but remains 16% below the totals from a year ago. Total U.S. freight shipments by rail plummeted in February. The Association of American Railroads said in a statement that total rail traffic dipped more than four percent, despite strong numbers in grain and intermodal shipments. AAR said harsh winter weather hit wide swaths of the country, wreaking havoc on all forms of transportation, including rail. The top trade group for the oil patch has also been among the top advocates against government action concerning climate change. But the American Petroleum Institute is now reportedly considering a move toward carbon pricing to limit emissions. The Chamber of Commerce embraced market-based emissions limits earlier this year, and several of API's largest members already support plans involving carbon taxes and rebates. Bloomberg reports the API is considering a draft policy statement which could receive a vote later this week.&nbsp; The world’s largest oil company may soon dispose of some huge assets as a way of maintaining its $75 billion annual dividend payments. Almost all that goes to the Saudi government. That payout – the biggest of any listed company in the world – became harder to sustain after the coronavirus pandemic caused crude prices to plunge last year. Aramco is studying at least seven non-binding bids from companies interested in taking a stake in the crude giant's oil pipelines. Bloomberg reports infrastructure funds are flush with capital, and are looking for predictable investments. This sale could be one of the biggest infrastructure deals this year. After years of rising output turned Canada into the world’s fourth-largest crude producer, expansion projects there have nearly halted on the heels of two market crashes since 2014. Bloomberg reports oil sands producers in Western Canada next month will conduct major maintenance and overhauls, idling nearly half a million barrels per day of production.&nbsp; It started some weeks back when the sporting goods company The North Face refused to fill an order for 400 jackets from an oil and gas company. The Colorado firm reportedly didn’t want to be associated with an industry that doesn’t meet its brand standards. As we pointed out then, the jackets, and almost every else The North Face sells, are made with nylon, polyester and polyurethane, all of which come from petroleum. So, the Colorado Oil and Gas Association decided to have some fun with the situation. It bestowed its first-ever “Extraordinary Customer Award” on The North Face, saying it appreciates the company for its abundant use of oil and gas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices retreated on Monday, after a wild ride last week, followed by a missile attack on the world's largest crude terminal over the weekend. Crude prices surged above $71 a barrel in Asian trading after the attack in Saudi Arabia Sunday. Bloomberg said output appeared to be unaffected after the missiles and drones were intercepted.&nbsp; The OPEC+ alliance decided to extend its current output cuts. And the Saudis say they will continue their additional, voluntary production limits. The announcements sent crude prices through the roof last week, with the U.S. and international benchmarks jumping more than three percent. U.S. Crude prices continue their roller coaster ride. Benchmark prices topped $66 a barrel on Friday, marking a $4 gain on the week, after $3 losses the week before, and $3 gains the week before that. Prices were retreating Monday.&nbsp; Kansas crude prices have spiked more than $5 in the last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $56.25 per barrel after jumping more than $2 on Friday. The rig count in Kansas is up 20 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one for the week, and 14 in western Kansas, which is up two. Operators are about to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County and another in Stafford County.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 403 active drilling rigs nationwide as of Friday, an increase of one oil rig over the count last week. Texas was up five rigs, but Louisiana was down two, and both New Mexico and North Dakota were down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 newly completed wells in eastern Kansas last week and six west of Wichita. That's 116 completed wells across Kansas so far this year. We're seeing completion activity this week on five leases in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, six in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including two new permits in Russell County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, we've seen 122 permits for drilling at new locations in The Sunflower State. National gasoline prices continued to increase, rising nine cents last week and 30 cents in the month of February. AAA says the average across the U.S. Thursday was just over $2.74 a gallon, the most expensive daily national average since August of 2019. Prices across Kansas over the last month have jumped more than 36 cents to a statewide average just over $2.57 a gallon. We spotted $2.54 at several locations in Hays Thursday and $2.57 across Great Bend. The cost of filling up a 15-gallon tank is up more than four dollars from a month ago and up more than eight dollars compared to six months ago. A new federal report pegs Kansas crude oil production last year at just under 28 million barrels, or 76,000 barrels per day. Last year, most Kansas producers shut in most Kansas production due to low prices. That dropped annual production 17 percent from the year before, when total output in the Sunflower State reached nearly 34 million barrels, or about 93,000 barrels per day. The new totals from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show total U.S. output last year reached just 11.3 million barrels per day, down more than 940,000 barrels per day from the year before. U.S. crude inventories rose by 12.6 million barrels last week to nearly 485 million barrels. That's about three percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production dropped below ten million barrels per day for the second week in a row, marking the first time that's happened since September. A year ago this week, operators set the all-time record for domestic production over 13 million barrels per day. The government reported an increase in U.S. crude imports of nearly two million barrels per day last week, but said the four-week average remains nearly 13% below the same period last year. Oil-by-rail totals for the week ending February 27 rose more than 2,000 tanker cars from the week before, but the totals are down more than 22% from a year ago. Oil-by-rail in Canada, which is widely expected to spike without additional pipeline capacity, was up more than 1,000 tanker cars last week, but remains 16% below the totals from a year ago. Total U.S. freight shipments by rail plummeted in February. The Association of American Railroads said in a statement that total rail traffic dipped more than four percent, despite strong numbers in grain and intermodal shipments. AAR said harsh winter weather hit wide swaths of the country, wreaking havoc on all forms of transportation, including rail. The top trade group for the oil patch has also been among the top advocates against government action concerning climate change. But the American Petroleum Institute is now reportedly considering a move toward carbon pricing to limit emissions. The Chamber of Commerce embraced market-based emissions limits earlier this year, and several of API's largest members already support plans involving carbon taxes and rebates. Bloomberg reports the API is considering a draft policy statement which could receive a vote later this week.&nbsp; The world’s largest oil company may soon dispose of some huge assets as a way of maintaining its $75 billion annual dividend payments. Almost all that goes to the Saudi government. That payout – the biggest of any listed company in the world – became harder to sustain after the coronavirus pandemic caused crude prices to plunge last year. Aramco is studying at least seven non-binding bids from companies interested in taking a stake in the crude giant's oil pipelines. Bloomberg reports infrastructure funds are flush with capital, and are looking for predictable investments. This sale could be one of the biggest infrastructure deals this year. After years of rising output turned Canada into the world’s fourth-largest crude producer, expansion projects there have nearly halted on the heels of two market crashes since 2014. Bloomberg reports oil sands producers in Western Canada next month will conduct major maintenance and overhauls, idling nearly half a million barrels per day of production.&nbsp; It started some weeks back when the sporting goods company The North Face refused to fill an order for 400 jackets from an oil and gas company. The Colorado firm reportedly didn’t want to be associated with an industry that doesn’t meet its brand standards. As we pointed out then, the jackets, and almost every else The North Face sells, are made with nylon, polyester and polyurethane, all of which come from petroleum. So, the Colorado Oil and Gas Association decided to have some fun with the situation. It bestowed its first-ever “Extraordinary Customer Award” on The North Face, saying it appreciates the company for its abundant use of oil and gas.

News From the Oil Patch: The ups and downs of crude pricing

Grassy sandbur is the “sticker” plant that looks like grass. It will often invade thin lawns, especially in dry years. Therefore, the best control for this weed is a thick, healthy lawn.

However, if your lawn is thin this spring and grassy sandbur was a problem last year, use a preemergence herbicide before the sandbur comes up. However, not all preemergence herbicides are effective. The three products that can help minimize grassy sandbur are oryzalin, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. Oryzalin is sold under the trade name Weed Impede. &nbsp; It can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Oryzalin is also sold as a combination product with benefin as Green Light Amaze. &nbsp;As with oryzalin alone, it can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Apply Amaze or an oryzalin product about April 15 when redbud trees approach full bloom. Pendimethalin is sold commercially as Pendulum as well as several other names. On the homeowner side, it is sold as Scotts Halts. Pendimethalin is best applied as a split application with the first half applied about April 15 and the second about June 1. Alternatively, make the first application when redbud trees approach full bloom and the second six weeks later. Prodiamine is sold under the commercial name of Barricade. &nbsp;It is also sold as a homeowner product Howard Johnson Crabgrass Control Plus with 0.37 Prodiamine &nbsp;00-00-07. &nbsp;It can be used on all our common lawn grasses. Apply as is done for oryzalin, about April 15 or when redbud trees approach full bloom. Only one application is needed per year. None of the “weed preventers” will give complete control but each should help. Quinclorac (Drive) can provide some postemergence control especially if the sandbur is in the seedling stage. Quinclorac is also found in several combination products that control both broadleaf weeds and crabgrass such as one of the following. • Ortho Weed-B-Gon Max + Crabgrass Control • BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer • Monterey Crab-E-Rad Plus • Fertilome Weed Out with Crabgrass Killer • Trimec Crabgrass Plus Lawn Weed Killer • Bonide Weed Beater Plus Crabgrass &amp; Broadleaf Weed Killer • Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Again, the best control for grassy sandbur is a healthy, thick lawn. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Grassy sandbur is the “sticker” plant that looks like grass. It will often invade thin lawns, especially in dry years. Therefore, the best control for this weed is a thick, healthy lawn. However, if your lawn is thin this spring and grassy sandbur was a problem last year, use a preemergence herbicide before the sandbur comes up. However, not all preemergence herbicides are effective. The three products that can help minimize grassy sandbur are oryzalin, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. Oryzalin is sold under the trade name Weed Impede. &nbsp; It can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Oryzalin is also sold as a combination product with benefin as Green Light Amaze. &nbsp;As with oryzalin alone, it can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Apply Amaze or an oryzalin product about April 15 when redbud trees approach full bloom. Pendimethalin is sold commercially as Pendulum as well as several other names. On the homeowner side, it is sold as Scotts Halts. Pendimethalin is best applied as a split application with the first half applied about April 15 and the second about June 1. Alternatively, make the first application when redbud trees approach full bloom and the second six weeks later. Prodiamine is sold under the commercial name of Barricade. &nbsp;It is also sold as a homeowner product Howard Johnson Crabgrass Control Plus with 0.37 Prodiamine &nbsp;00-00-07. &nbsp;It can be used on all our common lawn grasses. Apply as is done for oryzalin, about April 15 or when redbud trees approach full bloom. Only one application is needed per year. None of the “weed preventers” will give complete control but each should help. Quinclorac (Drive) can provide some postemergence control especially if the sandbur is in the seedling stage. Quinclorac is also found in several combination products that control both broadleaf weeds and crabgrass such as one of the following. • Ortho Weed-B-Gon Max + Crabgrass Control • BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer • Monterey Crab-E-Rad Plus • Fertilome Weed Out with Crabgrass Killer • Trimec Crabgrass Plus Lawn Weed Killer • Bonide Weed Beater Plus Crabgrass &amp; Broadleaf Weed Killer • Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Again, the best control for grassy sandbur is a healthy, thick lawn. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Controlling grassy sandbur 'stickers'

Friday marked a critical deadline known as “turnaround,” marking the official halfway point for the 2021 Legislative session. It was a busy week for the Senate, as we spent three full days debating and voting on and passing 89 bills ahead of the Turnaround deadline. After being on the floor all day Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the Legislature will break until March 10th&nbsp;to give clerical staff time to process the significant amount of paperwork resulting from this week.&nbsp; By “turnaround,” a bill, with few exceptions, must have passed its Chamber of origin in order to be considered by the other Chamber before session is over for the year. When the Senate returns on Wednesday, the focus will be to consider bills passed by the House Chamber and bills exempt from the Turnaround deadline.

FLOOR ACTION THIS WEEK– March 1st&nbsp;-&nbsp;3rd

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb20/" target="_blank">SB 20</a>&nbsp;designates a portion of United States Hwy 69 as the Senator Dennis Wilson Memorial Highway.&nbsp; <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb26/" target="_blank">SB 26</a>&nbsp;designates&nbsp;a portion of K-7 as the Senator Bud Burke Memorial Highway. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb89/" target="_blank">SB 89</a>&nbsp;would amend law on securing loads on vehicles to create an exemption for trucks, trailers, or semitrailers when hauling agricultural forage commodities intrastate from the place of production to a market or storage.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2049/" target="_blank">Sub for HB 2049</a>&nbsp;prohibits a public agency that is the subject of an audit pursuant to the statute or any other law from charging a fee for copies of or access to certain records requested by the legislative division of post audit. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb19/" target="_blank">SB 19</a>&nbsp;designates a portion of United States Hwy 77 as the CPL Allen E Oatney and SP4 Gene A Myers Memorial highway.&nbsp; This bill renames the highway stretch between Blue Rapids &amp; Waterville.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb51/" target="_blank">SB 51</a>&nbsp;would direct the State Department of Education and the Department for Children and Families (DCF) to collaboratively prepare the Kansas Foster Care Children Annual Academic Report Card..

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb62/" target="_blank">SB 62</a>&nbsp;would amend state standards for free school-administered vision screenings.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb83/" target="_blank">SB 83</a>&nbsp;would amend provisions in the statute governing the State Child Death Review Board regarding confidentiality of information acquired by and records of the Board. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb86/" target="_blank">SB 86</a>&nbsp;conforms certain KPERS provisions with the federal CARES act. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb106/" target="_blank">SB 106</a>&nbsp;would enact the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) and repeal the Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (ULONA), as well as other current laws regarding notaries. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb120/" target="_blank">SB 120</a>&nbsp;would establish the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb126/" target="_blank">SB 126</a>&nbsp;would amend the Club and Drinking Establishment Act by authorizing the sale of alcoholic liquor by specific organizations (such as American Legion locations) for special events. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb142/" target="_blank">SB 142</a>&nbsp;would require an operator of any vessel to require every person on such vessel age 12 or younger to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while aboard.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb143/" target="_blank">SB 143</a>&nbsp;would update and rearrange definitions regarding grain and grain warehouses.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb159/" target="_blank">SB 159</a>&nbsp;pays certain claims against the state submitted by the joint committee on special claims against the state. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb160/" target="_blank">SB 160</a>&nbsp;updates the valuation process for illegally commercialized fish and mussels and update the reference to the American Fisheries Society guidelines.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb175/" target="_blank">SB 175</a>&nbsp;would enact the Rural Emergency Hospital Act and create a category of licensure to enable certain Kansas hospitals to receive federal health care reimbursement.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb261/" target="_blank">SB 261</a>&nbsp;would establish the Asbestos Remediation Fund. The bill would also require the Secretary of KDHE to remit all moneys received to the State Treasurer. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2022/" target="_blank">HB 2022</a>&nbsp;would amend law concerning the filing of complaints and investigations pertaining to abandoned wells and responsible parties for plugging abandoned wells

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb23/" target="_blank">SB 23</a>&nbsp;provides for abatement of property tax for certain buildings or improvements destroyed or substantially destroyed by natural disaster.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb63/" target="_blank">SB 63</a>&nbsp;would amend law regarding the providing of ACT college entrance exams and Workkeys assessments to school students. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb71/" target="_blank">SB 71</a>&nbsp;would authorize nonrefundable income tax credits contributions to the Eisenhower Foundation. The bill is intended to support the efforts of the Eisenhower Foundation to improve the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb72/" target="_blank">SB 72</a>&nbsp; would require any continuing education courses required of appraisers for retaining their status on the list of eligible appraisers that are not offered by the Property Valuation Division, Department of Revenue, to be courses approved by the Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb78/" target="_blank">SB 78</a>&nbsp;would amend several provisions in the Insurance Code pertaining to service contracts, surplus lines insurance, the Standard Nonforfeiture Law for Individual Deferred Annuities, the Utilization Review Organization Act.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb84/" target="_blank">Sub for SB 84</a>&nbsp;would allow sports wagering in the state of Kansas. Under the bill, sports wagering would be operated through the state-owned casinos as part of the Expanded Lottery Act adopted in 2007.&nbsp; The bill contains several provisions to fund programs to help those who are addicted to gambling.&nbsp;

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb90/" target="_blank">SB 90</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Kansas Rural Housing Incentive District Act which creates economic incentives in rural communities by allowing vertical renovations of buildings for residential purposes.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb91/" target="_blank">SB 91</a>&nbsp;would allow a company to transfer up to 50 percent of the tax credits received from the High Performance Incentive Program (HPIP) to another company or individual per year.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb98/" target="_blank">SB 98</a>&nbsp;would amend law related to judicial review of property tax disputes and membership of the State Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA).

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb101/" target="_blank">SB 101</a>&nbsp;would amend the definition and regulate the operations of electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580853658061.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>MARCH 8, 2021SENATE HIGHLIGHTSFriday marked a critical deadline known as “turnaround,” marking the official halfway point for the 2021 Legislative session. It was a busy week for the Senate, as we spent three full days debating and voting on and passing 89 bills ahead of the Turnaround deadline. After being on the floor all day Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the Legislature will break until March 10th&nbsp;to give clerical staff time to process the significant amount of paperwork resulting from this week.&nbsp; By “turnaround,” a bill, with few exceptions, must have passed its Chamber of origin in order to be considered by the other Chamber before session is over for the year. When the Senate returns on Wednesday, the focus will be to consider bills passed by the House Chamber and bills exempt from the Turnaround deadline.FLOOR ACTION THIS WEEK– March 1st&nbsp;-&nbsp;3rd<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb20/" target="_blank">SB 20</a>&nbsp;designates a portion of United States Hwy 69 as the Senator Dennis Wilson Memorial Highway.&nbsp; <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb26/" target="_blank">SB 26</a>&nbsp;designates&nbsp;a portion of K-7 as the Senator Bud Burke Memorial Highway. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb89/" target="_blank">SB 89</a>&nbsp;would amend law on securing loads on vehicles to create an exemption for trucks, trailers, or semitrailers when hauling agricultural forage commodities intrastate from the place of production to a market or storage.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2049/" target="_blank">Sub for HB 2049</a>&nbsp;prohibits a public agency that is the subject of an audit pursuant to the statute or any other law from charging a fee for copies of or access to certain records requested by the legislative division of post audit. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb19/" target="_blank">SB 19</a>&nbsp;designates a portion of United States Hwy 77 as the CPL Allen E Oatney and SP4 Gene A Myers Memorial highway.&nbsp; This bill renames the highway stretch between Blue Rapids &amp; Waterville.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb51/" target="_blank">SB 51</a>&nbsp;would direct the State Department of Education and the Department for Children and Families (DCF) to collaboratively prepare the Kansas Foster Care Children Annual Academic Report Card..<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb62/" target="_blank">SB 62</a>&nbsp;would amend state standards for free school-administered vision screenings.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb83/" target="_blank">SB 83</a>&nbsp;would amend provisions in the statute governing the State Child Death Review Board regarding confidentiality of information acquired by and records of the Board. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb86/" target="_blank">SB 86</a>&nbsp;conforms certain KPERS provisions with the federal CARES act. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb106/" target="_blank">SB 106</a>&nbsp;would enact the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) and repeal the Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (ULONA), as well as other current laws regarding notaries. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb120/" target="_blank">SB 120</a>&nbsp;would establish the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb126/" target="_blank">SB 126</a>&nbsp;would amend the Club and Drinking Establishment Act by authorizing the sale of alcoholic liquor by specific organizations (such as American Legion locations) for special events. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb142/" target="_blank">SB 142</a>&nbsp;would require an operator of any vessel to require every person on such vessel age 12 or younger to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while aboard.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb143/" target="_blank">SB 143</a>&nbsp;would update and rearrange definitions regarding grain and grain warehouses.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb159/" target="_blank">SB 159</a>&nbsp;pays certain claims against the state submitted by the joint committee on special claims against the state. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb160/" target="_blank">SB 160</a>&nbsp;updates the valuation process for illegally commercialized fish and mussels and update the reference to the American Fisheries Society guidelines.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb175/" target="_blank">SB 175</a>&nbsp;would enact the Rural Emergency Hospital Act and create a category of licensure to enable certain Kansas hospitals to receive federal health care reimbursement.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb261/" target="_blank">SB 261</a>&nbsp;would establish the Asbestos Remediation Fund. The bill would also require the Secretary of KDHE to remit all moneys received to the State Treasurer. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2022/" target="_blank">HB 2022</a>&nbsp;would amend law concerning the filing of complaints and investigations pertaining to abandoned wells and responsible parties for plugging abandoned wells<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb23/" target="_blank">SB 23</a>&nbsp;provides for abatement of property tax for certain buildings or improvements destroyed or substantially destroyed by natural disaster.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb63/" target="_blank">SB 63</a>&nbsp;would amend law regarding the providing of ACT college entrance exams and Workkeys assessments to school students. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb71/" target="_blank">SB 71</a>&nbsp;would authorize nonrefundable income tax credits contributions to the Eisenhower Foundation. The bill is intended to support the efforts of the Eisenhower Foundation to improve the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb72/" target="_blank">SB 72</a>&nbsp; would require any continuing education courses required of appraisers for retaining their status on the list of eligible appraisers that are not offered by the Property Valuation Division, Department of Revenue, to be courses approved by the Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb78/" target="_blank">SB 78</a>&nbsp;would amend several provisions in the Insurance Code pertaining to service contracts, surplus lines insurance, the Standard Nonforfeiture Law for Individual Deferred Annuities, the Utilization Review Organization Act.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb84/" target="_blank">Sub for SB 84</a>&nbsp;would allow sports wagering in the state of Kansas. Under the bill, sports wagering would be operated through the state-owned casinos as part of the Expanded Lottery Act adopted in 2007.&nbsp; The bill contains several provisions to fund programs to help those who are addicted to gambling.&nbsp;<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb90/" target="_blank">SB 90</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Kansas Rural Housing Incentive District Act which creates economic incentives in rural communities by allowing vertical renovations of buildings for residential purposes.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb91/" target="_blank">SB 91</a>&nbsp;would allow a company to transfer up to 50 percent of the tax credits received from the High Performance Incentive Program (HPIP) to another company or individual per year.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb98/" target="_blank">SB 98</a>&nbsp;would amend law related to judicial review of property tax disputes and membership of the State Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA).<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb101/" target="_blank">SB 101</a>&nbsp;would amend the definition and regulate the operations of electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes).<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb102/" target="_blank">SB 102</a>&nbsp;requires earlier notice of anticipated release from custody of a person who may be a sexually violent predator to the attorney general.SB 104&nbsp;would amend law in the Revised Kansas Code for Care of Children governing the entry of a court order directing a child to remain in a present or future placement if certain conditions, outlined in continuing law, are met. The bill would make entry of such an order mandatory rather than permissive.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb116/" target="_blank">SB 116</a>&nbsp;authorize the Secretary of Transportation to let construction of any modernization or expansion project under the Eisenhower Program that would utilize federal stimulus funds regardless of whether at least one phase of each of the remaining T-Works modernization and expansion projects has been let. SB 119&nbsp;would amend law related to the list of eligible county appraisers, appraisal standards, Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) administration, and property valuation appeals.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb122/" target="_blank">SB 122</a>&nbsp;would amend various sections within the Kansas Rules of Evidence (Rules) related to the authentication of records and documents. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb124/" target="_blank">SB 124</a>&nbsp;would supplement, amend and reauthorize the Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds program.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb127/" target="_blank">SB 127</a>&nbsp;would amend laws related to driver’s licenses. The bill would add a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to the driver’s licenses that could be renewed online (except if the CDL has a hazardous materials endorsement). The bill would extend the maximum age for online application for renewal of a driver’s license from less than age 50 to less than age 65. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb131/" target="_blank">SB 131</a>&nbsp;authorize funeral escorts to reasonably direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic to allow funeral processions to pass through intersections and disregard traffic control devices, notwithstanding any state law, city ordinance, or county resolution relating to traffic control devices or right-of-way provisions. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb147/" target="_blank">SB 147</a>&nbsp;would provide a sales tax exemption for purchases made by nonprofit integrated community care organizations.SB 167&nbsp;would expand the definition of “authorized emergency vehicle” to include a vehicle operated by an authorized person for an electric or natural gas public utility or telecommunications carrier or video service provider.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb170/" target="_blank">SB 170</a>&nbsp;would remove the sunset date for the Advisory Committee on Trauma (ACT) of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb178/" target="_blank">SB 178</a>&nbsp;would amend provisions governing organization and supervision in the Kansas Banking Code.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb185/" target="_blank">SB 185</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to adopt rules and regulations, establish a sign language interpreter registration process and provide guidelines for communication access services.SB 238&nbsp;would amend statutes related to the regulation of professional counselors, social workers, marriage and family therapists, addiction counselors and master’s level psychologists.A full description of each bill can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;as well as the Final Action vote on each measure.KDOL ADDS ADDITIONAL CONTACT CENTER STAFF AND EXPANDED CALL CENTER HOURSGovernor Laura Kelly announced the Kansas Department of Labor is upgrading the agency’s server capacity and adding more availability, staff and support at the contact center which is experiencing ongoing increases in call volume from claimants who are in need of speaking with customer service agents to help with their claims.&nbsp; More than 500 customer service agents with the plan to have these agents deploying on the phones between mid-March and mid-April. The first 77 of these agents will begin supporting the contact center by the beginning of next week. Starting this weekend, contact center representatives will be available on Saturdays between the hours of 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, Sundays between 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm; and starting next Monday, March 8, weekday hours will be extended from 8:00 am until 9:00 pm. The agency’s busiest times for the contact center are between the hours of 8:00 – 9:00 am and 1:00 – 2:00 pm, daily. If possible, claimants should avoid calling during these hours. KDOL’s highest call volume day of the week are typically Mondays, the lowest is Friday. Amelia, KDOL’s chat bot, which can be accessed through the agency’s web site, can also answer many claimant questions. For more information, or to apply for unemployment benefits, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.getkansasbenefits.gov%2F&amp;amp;data=02%7C01%7CGerald.Grasso%40ks.gov%7Cc3838715b7c144c254d108d84a2213fc%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637340857511954020&amp;amp;sdata=LOs8f1AIXBe84rJutKJEE0Tlml%2FsFoRuCbH1DbaeFgI%3D&amp;amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.GetKansasBenefits.gov</a>UNCLAIMED PROPERTY IN KANSASThe State of Kansas&nbsp;has over $400 million dollars in unclaimed property waiting for the rightful owner to find and claim. Unclaimed property stats from July 1, 2018 to March 6, 2021 include 2,843,577 searches, $59,528,991.61 returned with the average claim paid at $207.25.&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.kansasastatetreasurer.com/" target="_blank">www.kansasastatetreasurer.com</a>&nbsp;and enter your name or business name to see if your name is on this list.&nbsp; Senate District #36 has over 1000 entries in the thirteen counties it covers.&nbsp; If you would like more personal assistance, call 800-432-0386 or 785-296-4165.THANK YOU FOR ENGAGINGThank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website.&nbsp; Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is the 36th Kansas District senator.&nbsp;The 36th District includes&nbsp;Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties.

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